bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural organization of biocatalytic systems: the next dimension of synthetic metabolism
Authors: Erb Tobias J.
Published: September 2019

In natural metabolic networks, more than 2000 different biochemical reactions are operated and spatially and temporally co-ordinated in a reaction volume of <1 µm3. A similar level of control and precision has not been achieved in chemical synthesis, so far. Recently, synthetic biology succeeded in reconstructing complex synthetic in vitro metabolic networks (SIVMNs) from individual proteins in a defined fashion bottom-up. In this review, we will highlight some examples of SIVMNs and discuss how the further advancement of SIVMNs will require the structural organization of these networks and their reactions to (i) minimize deleterious side reactions, (ii) efficiently energize these networks from renewable energies, and (iii) achieve high productivity. The structural organization of synthetic metabolic networks will be a key step to create novel catalytic systems of the future and advance ongoing efforts of creating cell-like systems and artificial cells.
Increasing the Laser-Induced Damage Threshold of Optical Components by Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Surface Finishing
Authors: Gerhard Christoph , Stappenbeck Marco , Tasche Daniel
Published: September 2019

In this contribution, a plasma-based approach for finishing optics surfaces is introduced. Experiments were performed on classically manufactured zinc crown glass and sapphire. It is shown that the use of direct dielectric barrier discharge plasma at atmospheric pressure allows the removal of surface-adherent carbonaceous contaminations that were induced by classical manufacturing. Moreover, the use of such plasma leads to a certain decrease in surface roughness. Both effects, surface cleaning and smoothing finally increase the laser-induced damage threshold of optical components.
Topology optimization and additive manufacturing of an optical housing for space applications
Authors: Heidler Nils , von Lukowicz Henrik , Hilpert Enrico , Risse Stefan , Alber Lucas , Klement Jan , Heine Frank , Bölter Ralf , Armengol Josep Maria Perdigues
Published: September 2019

The design of an optical housing for laser telecommunication in space is improved by topology optimization. Different mechanical and thermal boundary conditions are considered while minimizing the overall weight of the housing. As a proof-of-concept study, a complex and lightweight housing is made by additive manufacturing with the aluminium silicon alloy AlSi40. Post processing steps include a thermal treatment, cleaning and a mechanical machining process. Final characterization tests include the evaluation of material characteristics by tensile tests, a computed tomography scan and a CMM measurement. The final shock and vibrational test is used to proof the performance of the housing for future space applications.
Multifunctional contamination-resistant coatings
Authors: Felde Nadja , Gärtner Anne , Schwinde Stefan , Schröder Sven
Published: September 2019

Surface contaminations can critically affect the performance of optical surfaces, in particular with respect to light scattering, optical losses, and laser stability. Thus, avoiding contaminations and reducing contamination-induced effects is of particular interest in the manufacturing of optical systems. By combining a specific thin film design with a tailored structural design, contamination-resistant coatings with a high optical quality can be realized. Most important is the balance of self-cleaningand light scattering-relevant surface roughness components.
Transient Dynamics Measurement of Light-material Interaction for Laser Optics
Authors: Liu Zhichao , Geng Feng , Li Yaguo , Zhang Qinghua , Wang Jian , Xu Qiao
Published: September 2019

Laser damage performance is an important parameter to evaluate the quality of high power laser optical components. Understanding the physical mechanism of the interaction between laser and optical material is of great significance for improving the laser damage resistance of optical elements. For nanosecond pulsed laser, the time duration of laser-induced damage is ultra-short, and the measurement of related physical quantities is very difficult. Therefore, the Time Resolved Pump and Probe (TRPP) technique can effectively solve this problem. TRPP shadow imaging can obtain the transient dynamic information in range of picosecond to microsecond, including the plasma formation in the early stage, the shock wave propagation, the crack expanding, material ejection and other phenomena. Moreover, the ultra-fast physical quantities can be accurately measured by employing two detective beams with perpendicular polarization directions, for example S and P polarization light. All those information provides effective experimental data to reveal the physical mechanism of damage process.
Economical rapid-prototyping of aspherical lenses
Authors: Müller Angelina , Wapler Matthias C. , Wallrabe Ulrike
Published: September 2019

We present a rapid-prototyping process to fabricate aspherical lens arrays based on surface deformation due to thermal expansion of PDMS. Using laser-structuring and molding in combination with an FEM-based shape optimization, we were able to design, fabricate and characterize different micro-lens arrays. This fabrication process can be used for almost any kind of arbitrary lens shape, which allows for a large design freedom for micro lenses.
Study of footprint variations of CCP considering machine kinematics
Authors: Yu Guoyu , Reynolds Christina , Walker David , Fahnle Oliver
Published: September 2019

This paper investigates the differentiation between machine’s static and dynamic footprint (FP). The results have shown progressing footprint variation related to tool’s tilt angle. Continuous tilt angle compensation has been applied to offset this effect.
Surface Figuring of Large Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Antenna Reflector with A Dual-robots Fabrication System
Authors: Xin Qiang , Liu Haitao , Wu Jieli , Tang Lin , Wang Dailu , Wan Yongjian
Published: September 2019

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) has excellent physical and chemical properties which make it a promising material in making large space borne components, especially in making antenna reflectors and ultra-lightweight space mirrors. These components are usually in large scale to achieve the application requirements. In this research, a dual-robots fabrication system was in-house developed to meet the requirement for figuring a large off-axis parabolic CFRP antenna reflector with the size of 2.4m×4.58m. To make sure that whole surface of the antenna reflector could be covered by the fabrication system, the surface was divided into six regions to accomplish the fabrication. In addition, a special designed tool was utilized to adapt to the curvature variation of the surface. The final surface form accuracies obtained for areas ≤φ1750mm, ≤φ2400mm and the whole surface of the antenna reflector were 13.5μm RMS, 23.4μm RMS and 45.8μm RMS, respectively. Feasibility and surface figuring accuracy of the dual-robots system in fabricating large scale components were verified.
Testing and characterization of challenging optics and optical systems with Shack Hartmann wavefront sensors
Authors: Siv Julie , Mayer Rafael , Beaugrand Guillaume , Tison Guillaume , Juvénal Rémy , Dovillaire Guillaume
Published: September 2019

The Shack-Hartman wavefront sensor is a common metrology tool in the field of laser, adaptive optics and astronomy. However, this technique is still scarcely used in optics and optical system metrology. With the development of manufacturing techniques and the increasing need for optical characterization in the industry, the Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor emerges as an efficient complementary tool to the well-established Fizeau interferometry for optical system metrology. Moreover, the raise of smart vehicles equipped with optical sensors and augmented reality, the optical characterization of glass and transparent flat materials becomes an issue that can be addressed with Shack-Hartmann sensors. Aberration measurements of challenging optics will be presented such as optical filters, thin flat optics, aspheric lenses and large optical assemblies.
Final Figuring of Optical Components Surfaces Considering Deformations Introduced by Support System
Authors: Abdulkadyrov Magomed , Semenov Aleksandr , Dobrikov Nikolay , Ignatov Aleksandr , Patrikeev Vladimir
Published: September 2019

Membrane-pneumatic support systems for mirror mounting are often used at JSC LZOS during working surface tests while producing of large-dimensioned optical components of astronomical and space application. However, in some cases, it is necessary to support the mirror by glued interface elements. In such case, the difference in the surface shape between the standard and the technological support, which is considered during figuring, is calculated by means of modelling.
A new approach to laser polishing and form correction of optical components
Authors: Kessler Harold , Botha Roelene , Ziolek Carsten
Published: September 2019

The increasing variety of optical components and materials, combined with stricter surface tolerance requirements, necessitate refining existing polishing processes and developing innovative new polishing solutions and metrology technologies. A fast, reproducible laser polishing process would offer considerable economic benefits over conventional mechanical polishing processes and interest a broad variety of optics manufacturers. In this work, a holistic approach is taken to address the various aspects of glass polishing and form correction via a novel laser polishing system design, the use of a measurement strategy that can be integrated inline and simulation results that are correlated with process parameter studies for different materials.
Femtosecond Laser Micromachining of Fabry-Pérot Interferometers for Magnetic Field Sensing
Authors: Maia João M. , Amorim Vítor A. , Viveiros Duarte , Marques P. V. S.
Published: September 2019

Fs-laser micromachining is a high precision fabrication technique that can be used to write novel three-dimensional structures, depending on the nature of light-matter interaction. In fused silica, the material modification can lead to (i) an increase of the refractive index around the focal volume, resulting in the formation of optical circuits, or (ii) an enhancement of the etch rate of the laser-affected zones relative to the pristine material, leading to a selective and anisotropic etching reaction that enables fabrication of microfluidic systems. Here, both effects are combined to fabricate a Fabry-Pérot interferometer, where optical waveguides and microfluidic channels are integrated monolithically in a fused silica chip. By filling the channel with a magnetic fluid whose refractive index changes with an external magnetic field, the device can be used as a magnetic field sensor. A linear sensitivity of -0.12 nm/mT is obtained in the 5.0±0.5 to 33.0±0.5 mT range, with the field being applied parallel to the light propagation direction.
Design Of An Optofluidic Device For The Measurement Of The Elastic Modulus Of Deformable Particles
Authors: Villone Massimiliano M. , Nunes Janine K. , Stone Howard A. , Maﬀettone Pier Luca
Published: September 2019

Suspensions carrying deformable inclusions are ubiquitous in nature and applications. Hence, high-throughput characterization of the mechanical properties of soft particles is of great interest. Recently, a non-invasive optofluidic technique has been developed for the measurement of the interfacial tension between two immiscible liquids [8]. We have adapted such technique to the case of soft solid beads, thus designing a non-invasive optofluidic device for the measurement of the mechanical properties of deformable particles from real-time optical imaging of their deformation.

The device consists of a cylindrical microfluidic channel with a cross-section reduction in which we make initially spherical soft beads flow suspended in a Newtonian carrier. By imaging the deformation of a particle in real time while it goes through the constriction, it is possible to get a measure of its elastic modulus through a theoretically derived-correlation. We provide both experimental and numerical validation of our device.
2D resolution improvement via 1D scanning Space-Time Digital Holography (STDH) in Optofluidics
Authors: Wang Zhe , Bianco Vittorio , Cui Yutong , Paturzo Melania , Ferraro Pietro
Published: September 2019

Space-Time Digital Holography (STDH) exploits the object motion to record the hologram in a hybrid space-time domain. This representation adds new capabilities to conventional DH, such as unlimited extension of the Field of View (FoV) and tunable phase shifting. Here we show that STDH is able to improve the spatial resolution as well. Differently from other super-resolution approaches, stitching between holograms or their spectra is no longer required. Moreover, we introduce a new STDH modality to record and process hybrid space-time representations. This allows improving resolution with one single object scan, paving the way to the use of STDH for super resolution imaging onboard Lab on a Chip devices.
Integration of fluidic channels and total internal reflection excitation with supercritical angle fluorescence detection
Authors: Tappura Kirsi , Mäyrä Aki , Alamäki Markku , Kokkonen Annukka , Aikio Sanna , Hiltunen Marianne
Published: September 2019

In many diagnostic applications, there is a growing demand for small cost effective portable devices that enable fast on-site analysis. For this target, we are developing an integrated approach of a previously reported surface-sensitive measurement system based on total internal reflection excitation and supercritical angle fluorescence detection. The integrated measurement platform includes a polystyrene substrate on which the fluidic channels for sample transport, waveguides for fluorescence excitation and the readout optics are fabricated. In addition, thin layers with dielectric properties differing from those of polystyrene may be needed on the fluidic channels for optimal sample transport or biomolecule immobilisation. Here, special attention is paid to the influence of the dielectric environment near the solid-liquid interface on the fluorescence distribution and to the design of the readout optics. The first version of the designed readout optics of the integrated measurement platform is presented.
Hybrid Organic-Inorganic photoresists, a promising class of materials for Optofluidic integration
Authors: Elias Jinane , Etienne Pascal , Calas-Etienne Sylvie , Duffours Laurent
Published: September 2019

Through the efforts to fuse planar optics and microfluidics in order to produce dye lasers, biosensors, trapping and cell sorting device, we can notice the rising interest in optofluidics since early and mid 2000's. However mass production of these devices heavily relies on fast and easy patterning of the constituent material. PDMS, being one of these materials, gained an added value because of its elasticity, hydrophobicity and permeability to gaz. Nonetheless, these specifications are not convenient for all types of applications. The growing capability to use Hybrid Organic-Inorganic materials for the fabrication of integrated optics components and microfluidic channels is what makes this class of materials an ideal candidate for this integration. This work aims to implement, on the same chip, an optical and a microfluidic layer using Sol-Gel processing of Organic-Inorganic materials. The interest in this vertical integration arises from the need to manipulate the fluid in the microchannels using evanescent field optical pressure.
Optical transport of fluorescent diamond particles inside a tapered capillary
Authors: Pin Christophe , Otsuka Ryohei , Fujiwara Hideki , Sasaki Keiji
Published: September 2019

Optical forces provide an efficient way to sort particles and biological materials according to their optical properties. However, both enhanced optical forces and a large interaction volume are needed in order to optically sort a large number of nanoparticles. We investigate the use of a tapered glass capillary as an optofluidic platform for optical manipulation and optical sorting applications. Tapered capillaries with micrometre and sub-micrometre sizes are fabricated. After filling the tapered capillary with a colloidal solution of red fluorescent diamond particles, a green laser light is coupled into the capillary. The tapered capillary acts both as a microfluidic channel and as an optical waveguide, making it possible for the light to interact with the particles inside the sample solution. Using an incident laser power of few tens of milliwatts, we achieve optical transportation of the brightest particles inside the tapered part of the capillary. Particle velocities as high as few tens of micrometres per second are measured.
Experimental and numerical study of calcium treatment of steel
Authors: Priyadarshi Harsh , Boissiere Benjamin , Gardin Pascal , Lehmann Jean , Silva Luisa
Published: September 2019

This paper presents the laboratory scale experiments of calcium release in liquid steel and its modeling to better understand the mass transfer mechanism occurring during calcium treatment of steel. The calcium injections are performed at the liquid steel temperature below and above the boiling point of calcium (1484 °C). The corresponding yields (calcium recovery) are compared. The objective is to confront the experimental results with the results of the numerical model developed. Rise of calcium droplet in liquid steel is a three-phase problem (calcium droplet/liquid steel/air at the top) therefore an in-house scientific computational platform based on finite element methods is adapted to allow the modeling of such three-phase flows, which is validated using classical bench mark issued from literature. Mass transfer model is first validated by comparison with the analytical solution obtained for a motionless calcium droplet dissolving in stable liquid steel. This case study highlighted the importance and sensitivity on the prediction of concentration profile near the interface with numerical parameters, such as the mesh size. The case of mass transfer for a rising liquid droplet in a liquid matrix is also simulated. The accordance between the calculated Sherwood number and the Sherwood number found in the literature demonstrates the ability of the model to predict the mass transfer rate occurring at the interface.
Exposure of adults to extremely low frequency magnetic field in France: results of the EXPERS study
Authors: Magne I. , Souques M. , Courouve L. , Duburcq A. , Remy E. , Cabanes P.-A.
Published: September 2019

Assessing the exposure of adults to magnetic field is a central point in the context of epidemiological studies. The EXPERS study is the first study at national scale in Europe with measurements of personal exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields, involving 1046 French adults with 24 h personal measurements. The proportion of adults with a 24 h AM of ≥ 1 µT was 2.1% for all adults and 0.3% for adults for which no alarm clock was identified, as this requirement of the measurement protocol was sometimes not respected. The alarm clocks were the main variable linked to the adults’ exposure measurements. The vicinity of the home to a high voltage power line increased the magnetic field exposure. However, only 1.7% of the adults were living close to a 63 to 400 kV overhead line, and only one of them had a personal exposure ≥ 1 μT with an AM of 1.1 μT. The exposure of adults was also correlated with some characteristics of the home and its environment, and some durations of activities, such as the duration of work and the duration in rail transport. The distribution of adults’ personal exposure was significantly different from the distribution of exposure during sleep, and from the distribution of exposure assessed from measurements during sleep and work. This highlights the complexity of the exposure assessment in epidemiological studies.
A single server queue under random vacation policy
Authors: kalita Priyanka , Choudhury Gautam
Published: September 2019

This paper deals with an M/G/1 queueing system with random vacation policy, in which the server takes the maximum number of random vacations till it finds minimum one message (customer) waiting in a queue at a vacation completion epoch. If no arrival occurs after completing maximum number of random vacations, the server stays dormant in the system and waits for the upcoming arrival. Here, we obtain steady state queue size distribution at an idle period completion epoch and service completion epoch. We also obtain the steady state system size probabilities and system state probabilities. Some significant measures such as a mean number of customers served during the busy period, Laplace-Stieltjes transform of unfinished work and its corresponding mean value and second moment have been obtained for the system. A cost optimal policy have been developed in terms of the average cost function to determine a locally optimal random vacation policy at a lower cost. Finally, we present various numerical results for the above system performance measures.
The production planning problem of orders in small foundries
Authors: Furtado Maria Gabriela S. , Camargo Victor C. B. , Toledo Franklina M. B.
Published: September 2019

The production planning problem in market-driven foundries consists of determining the alloys to be melted and the items to be produced. A production plan is defined based on the foundry book order that compiles customer requests. Each customer order can be composed of items of different types and made from different alloys. In the literature, production planning does not usually consider the customers’ orders, i.e., items are independently handled. However, in practical situations, several orders cannot be partially delivered. An order can be delivered only when all of its items have been produced, which often results in delays in meeting the customer demands. Conversely, some orders may be split, which would incur delivering costs. This paper addresses the production planning problem of orders in market-driven foundries, which is considered a gap in the literature. A mathematical model and a relax-and-fix heuristic are proposed to address the problem. An experimental evaluation using synthetic datasets and a real dataset compares the proposed methods with the practical policy planning and a state-of-the-art method that solve the production planning problem of items. The results demonstrate the relevance of the production planning of orders.
SOP Kompressionssyndrome peripherer Nerven
Authors: Bischoff Christian , Schulte-Mattler Wilhelm , Schminke Ulf
Published: September 2019

Nervenkompressionssyndrome gehören zu den häufigsten neurologischen Störungen. Für die wichtigsten Kompressionssyndrome an Armen und Beinen werden typische Beschwerden und klinische Befunde sowie das standardisierte elektrophysiologische Vorgehen beschrieben. Neben den Mindestanforderungen und den dabei zu erwartenden pathologischen Befunden wird besonderer Wert darauf gelegt, die technischen Probleme und differenzialdiagnostischen Schwierigkeiten darzustellen.
Hereditäre Polyneuropathien
Authors: Ferbert A. , Roth C.
Published: September 2019

Polyneuropathien zählen zu den häufigsten neurologischen Erkrankungen. Die Charcot-Marie-Tooth Erkrankung (CMT) ist ihre häufigste erblich bedingte Form. Orthopädische Symptome wie ein Hohlfuß oder Krallenzehen können ein erstes Anzeichen der Krankheit sein. Verdachtsfälle können mithilfe elektrophysiologischer und sonografischer Methoden abgeklärt und ggf. molekulargenetisch genau charakterisiert werden.
Urine Haptoglobin/Creatinine Ratio Correlates with Tubular Injury Biomarkers and Severity of Albuminuria in Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Wang Yangyang , Zhou Qianying , Zhang Lijun , Dai Yali , Huang Zhijun , Zhang Hao , Yi Bin
Published: September 2019

This aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between urine haptoglobin/creatinine ratio(UHCR) and tubular injury biomarkers or severity of albuminuria in type 2 diabetes. Recruited T2DM patients (n=120) were divided into three groups based on urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR): normal albuminuria (Normo group, UACR<30 mg/g, n=40), microalbuminuria (Micro group, 30 mg/g ≤UACR<300 mg/g, n=38), and macroalbuminuria (Macro group, UACR ≥300 mg/g, n=42), with matched healthy individuals (NC group, n=30) as controls. ELISA assay was used to detect the levels of urine haptoglobin, NGAL and KIM-1. Automated biochemical analyzer was applied to detect the concentrations of urine creatinine and retinol binding protein (RBP). To eliminate concentration errors, urine NGAL, KIM-1, and RBP were normalized by creatinine and expressed as UHCR, UNCR, UKCR, and URCR, respectively. We found UHCR was significantly increased in T2DM patients as compared with NC group. Among the three diabetic groups, the Macro group had the highest level of UHCR, whereas the Normo group had the lowest level. T2DM patients with higher UHCR levels also had higher levels of UNCR, UKCR, and URCR. Spearman’s correlation analysis indicated that UHCR was positively correlated with UACR, UNCR, UKCR, or URCR levels, and negatively correlated with eGFR. ROC curve analysis showed that UHCR was a sensitive and specific indicator for early diagnosis of DN. Stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that UHCR and UNCR were independent variables for UACR. Our research demonstrated that UHCR correlates with tubular injury biomarkers, including UNCR, UKCR, and URCR, and is independently associated with the severity of albuminuria in T2DM.
The Spectrum of Genetic Defects in Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia in the Population of Cyprus: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Neocleous Vassos , Fanis Pavlos , Toumba Meropi , Stylianou Charilaos , Picolos Michalis , Andreou Elena , Kyriakou Andreas , Iasonides Michalis , Nicolaou Stella , Kyriakides Tassos C. , Tanteles George A. , Skordis Nicos , Phylactou Leonidas A.
Published: September 2019

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) is caused by mutations in the CYP21A2 gene. The study refers to CAH patients of Greek-Cypriot ancestry between years 2007 and 2018. One hundred and twenty patients with various degrees of CAH were categorized and genotyped. The patients were categorized in 4 mutation groups based on their clinical and biochemical findings. The majority of patients (85.0%) belonged to the non-classic (NC)-CAH form and the disorder was more often diagnosed in females (71.7%). The most severe classic salt-wasting (SW) form was identified in 11 neonates (9.2%). Seven (5.8%) children were also identified with the simple virilizing (SV) form and a median presentation age of 5 years [interquartile range (IQR) 3.2–6.5]. In the 240 nonrelated alleles, the most frequent mutation was p.Val281Leu (60.0%) followed by c.655 A/C>G (IVS2–13A/C>G) (8.8%), p.Pro453Ser (5.8%), DelEx1–3 (4.6%), p.Val304Met (4.6%), and p.Gln318stop (4.2%). Other less frequent mutations including rare deletions were also identified. Following our recent report that the true carrier frequency of CYP21A2 in Greek-Cypriots is 1:10, this study reports that the CAH prevalence is predicted around 1.7 cases per 10 000 people. Therefore, the up-to-date 120 CAH patients identified by our group make only the 6.9% of the ones estimated (approximately 1750) to exist in the Greek Cypriot population. The compiled data from a coherent population such as the Greek-Cypriot could be valuable for the antenatal diagnosis, management and genetic counselling of the existing and prospect families with CAH.
Sonografie peripherer Nerven: Tumore und Ganglien peripherer Nerven
Authors: Schminke Ulf , Allendörfer Jens
Published: September 2019

Die Sonografie wird häufig als Methode der ersten Wahl zur Untersuchung von tastbaren Raumforderungen der Extremitäten angewendet. Tumore peripherer Nerven können unterteilt werden in periphere Nervenscheidentumore wie Schwannome und Neurofibrome, die von spezifischem neuralen Gewebe ausgehen, und in solche, die von unspezifischem Gewebe des Nervs ausgehen. Zur zweiten Gruppe gehören nervale Fibrolipome, intraneurale Perineuriome, Hämangiome und auch intraneurale Ganglien. Der folgende Artikel hat zum Ziel, eine Übersicht über die typischen sonografischen Befunde sowie über den Zusatznutzen der Sonografie gegenüber der elektrophysiologischen Untersuchung von Tumoren und Ganglien von peripheren Nerven zu geben.
The Risk For Malignancy of the Thyroid Nodule is Modulated by Gender, Echotexture, and Intranodular Lymphocytic Thyroiditis
Authors: Arena Salvatore , Benvenga Salvatore
Published: September 2019

Based on the American (Bethesda, 2017) or Italian (SIAPEC 2014) cytological categories of thyroid nodules, the risk of malignancy and management vary. This risk is 5–10% or<3% (benign or TIR2), 6–18% or<10% (AUS/FLUS or TIR3A), 10–40% or 15–30% (FN/SFN or TIR3B), 45–60% or 60–80% (suspicious or TIR4), 94–96% or 95% (malignant or TIR5). In 408 thyroid nodules evaluated cytologically, we computed the malignancy rate in each category considering gender (325 females, 83 males), echotexture (268 isoechoic, 140 hypoechoic), intranodular chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (ICLT: 113 with and 295 without); histology (263 benign, 145 malignant). It was 0–1.7% for the benign categories, except hypoechoic/ICLT+ve nodules of females (25%); 0–2.3% for the AUS/FLUS category, except isoechoic/ICLT–ve nodules of males (11.1%) and hypoechoic/ICLT–ve nodules of females (22.2%). For the FN/SFN category, rate was the most variable (from 0% in isoechoic/ICLT+ve nodules of males to 100% in hypoechoic/ICLT–ve nodules of males). The 30% threshold for risk was passed in four subgroups, and the 40% threshold in two subgroups (45% in isoechoic/ICLT–ve nodules of males, 80% in hypoechoic/ICLT+ve nodules of females). For the suspicious category, rate was 100% in males, except those with isoechoic/ICLT–ve nodules (75%), and>80% in females with hypoechoic nodules. For the malignant category, rate was always 100%. In conclusion, particular groups of nodules (based on gender, echotexture, and ICLT) within the cytologically benign through the suspiciously malignant category are at risk of malignancy substantially greater (even 100%) than the standard one. Accordingly, the suggested management cannot be standardized.
Impact of Deficiency of Intrinsic Coagulation Factors XI and XII on Ex Vivo Thrombus Formation and Clot Lysis
Authors: Govers-Riemslag José W. P. , Konings Joke , Cosemans Judith M. E. M. , van Geffen Johanna P. , de Laat Bas , Heemskerk Johan W. M. , Dargaud Yesim , ten Cate Hugo
Published: September 2019

The contributions of coagulation factor XI (FXI) and FXII to human clot formation is not fully known. Patients with deficiency in FXI have a variable mild bleeding risk, whereas FXII deficiency is not associated with bleeding. These phenotypes make FXII and FXI attractive target proteins in anticoagulant therapy. Here, we studied the mechanisms of fibrin clot formation, stability, and fibrinolytic degradation in patients with severe FXI or FXII deficiency. Thrombin generation was triggered in platelet-poor (PPP) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with the biological FXII trigger sulfatides. Intrinsic and extrinsic thrombus formation and degradation in whole blood were determined with rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM). Clot formation under flow was assessed by perfusion of whole blood over collagen microspots with(out) tissue factor (TF). Thrombin generation and clot formation were delayed in FXII- and FXI-deficient patients triggered with sulfatides. In FXI-deficient plasma, this delay was more pronounced in PRP compared to PPP. In whole blood of FXII-deficient patients, clots were smaller but resistance to fibrinolysis was normal. In whole blood of FXI-deficient patients, clot formation was normal but the time to complete fibrinolysis was prolonged. In flow chamber experiments triggered with collagen/TF, platelet coverage was reduced in severe compared with moderate FXI deficiency, and fibrin formation was impaired. We conclude that quantitative defects in FXII and FXI have a substantial impact on contact activation-triggered coagulation. Furthermore, FXI deficiency has a dose-dependent suppressing effect on flow-mediated and platelet/TF-dependent clot formation. These last data highlight the contribution of particularly FXI to hemostasis.
Congenital Lymphatic Malformation and Aortic Aneurysm in a Patient with TSC2 Mutation
Authors: Wiemer-Kruel Adelheid , Mayer Hans , Ewert Peter , Martinoff Stefan , Eckstein Hans-Henning , Kriebel Thomas , Bissler John , Franz David , Bast Thomas
Published: September 2019

We present a 7-year-old boy with tuberous sclerosis and congenital segmental lymphedema (CSL) of the left leg, as well as two aortic aneurysms. He was treated with everolimus (EVE) since the age of 14 months. His CSL regressed under treatment with EVE. His first aneurysms required operative intervention at age of 17 months. Four months afterward a new aortic aneurysm had been detected above the Dracon graft, but this one remained stable since that time. The patient didn't experience severe side effects. EVE has been well tolerated without disturbance of somatic growth or serious adverse effect.
Lasting Effects of Intrauterine Exposure to Preeclampsia on Offspring and the Underlying Mechanism
Authors: Lu Hui Qing , Hu Rong
Published: September 2019

Preeclampsia is a common pregnancy complication which can have adverse impact on both mother and baby. In addition to the short term effects, a large body of epidemiological evidence has found preeclampsia can exert long-lasting effects on mother and offspring. Studies suggest that offspring exposed to preeclampsia are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological diseases, as well as other diseases. However, studies investigating the underlying mechanism are limited, the exact mechanism still remains unclear. In this study, we will review the epidemiological evidence and studies exploring the mechanism underlying long-term effects of preeclampsia on offspring. Further studies should be targeted at this field so as to implement effective clinical management to prevent the exposed offspring from potential diseases.
Safety of Concurrent Endoscopic Browlift and Blepharoplasty
Authors: Hjelm Nikolaus , Sanan Akshay , Krein Howard , Heffelfinger Ryan N.
Published: September 2019

The objective of the study was to evaluate the clinical safety of endoscopic browlift alone or in combination with blepharoplasty as a treatment for the aging face. This is a retrospective comparative study from 2007 to 2016 at a single tertiary care center. A consecutive sample of patients undergoing surgery for aging of the upper face was included in the study. Surgeries deemed to be inclusive were endoscopic browlift, upper blepharoplasty, and lower blepharoplasty. In total, 46 patients undergoing endoscopic browlift with concurrent blepharoplasty were included. Patient demographics, past medical history, follow-up, and any complications related to their surgery were studied up to 90 months postoperatively. Combination of endoscopic browlift with blepharoplasty did not increase the risk of complications on univariate analysis (p = 0.735). There were no differences in complication rates on univariate analysis of patients with a smoking history, diabetes, or autoimmune disease (p = 0.111, p = 0.575, p > 0.999, respectively). Furthermore, there was no difference between groups in complication rates, smoking history, diabetes, or autoimmune disease (p = 0.735, p = 0.181, p = 0.310, p = 0.218, respectively). Smoking had an insignificant increased risk of complication as compared with nonsmokers on multivariate analysis (odds ratio [OR] = 4.526; p = 0.073). Increasing age was slightly associated with fewer complications on multivariate analysis in this patient cohort (OR = 0.939; p = 0.048). By combining endoscopic browlift with a concomitant blepharoplasty, the goals of the patient and the standards of the surgeon can be effectively and safely achieved. Analysis of complications from 46 combined cases at our institution asserts that this is a safe operation. Smoking status was the only observed predictor for postoperative complications. This was a level of evidence 3, retrospective comparative study.
Successful Outcome of Post Liposuction Extensive Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection of Abdomen and Concomitant Jejunal Perforation—A Case Report
Authors: Singh Hardeep , Khazanchi Rakesh Kumar , Mahendru Sanjay
Published: September 2019

Introduction Liposuction is one of the common cosmetic surgery procedures performed. Although rare, the complications associated with it are necrotizing soft tissue infection and bowel perforation. We would like to share our experience of such a complication that was managed successfully.

Case Report We were referred a 65-year-old male patient with signs and symptoms of intestinal obstruction who had undergone liposuction of abdomen 1 week before and now had discoloration of the abdominal skin. The discoloration was present from just below the costal margin and was extending up to bilateral inguinal regions. Laterally the discoloration extended up to the mid axillary line on both sides. Imaging studies showed dilated small bowel. During laparotomy, he underwent debridement of all discolored skin and repair of the single jejunal perforation. Postoperatively patient was first managed on intravenous fluids, nasogastric aspiration and total parenteral nutrition for 10 days. The wound was managed with silver dressings that led to healthy granulations. The patient was at high risk for anesthesia for skin grafting; hence, he was managed with allograft for 10 days. The patient then underwent skin grafting once he was fit. The graft took up well and he resumed regular activities.

Conclusion This is unique as the patient had extensive necrotizing soft tissue infection of the abdominal skin after liposuction along with intestinal perforation and obstruction that was managed successfully due to aggressive surgical intervention, allograft, and good supportive care both in the intensive care unit and in ward.
Statins in Females
Authors: Velam Vanajakshamma , Kasala Latheef , Chanda Narendra
Published: September 2019

Statins have turned out to be widely recommended in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) owing to their favorable effect on lipid metabolism and patient survival. Statin treatment is usually all around endured and effective in the prevention and treatment of CVD, irrespective of cholesterol levels. However, studies on statin therapy have reported various adverse effects such as myalgia, myopathy, rhabdomyolysis, and diabetes mellitus. Primary and secondary prevention studies of CVD have been grossly underpowered regarding enrolment of women, limiting the ability to stratify results by sex. In high-risk women, statins reduce coronary events and stroke. For primary prevention, the benefits and risks of statin therapy remain less well defined in women. CVD prevention includes lifestyle modification for all women and medical treatment for those with prevailing CVD risk factors or known disease. It has been proved that statins reduce the rates of cardiovascular events and mortality. Randomized clinical trials suggest that statins are safe in most patients with the previous stroke and reduces the occurrence of coronary adverse events and stroke by ~20%. In populations at high baseline risk of CVD, cardiovascular benefits of statin therapy overweigh the potential risk of increased serum glucose levels.
What guns meant in eighteenth-century Britain
Authors: Satia Priya
Published: September 2019

This article briefly summarizes the place of guns in British society and culture in the long eighteenth century. My approach is that of a historical anthropologist, examining the meaning of guns from the way they were used and depicted. I examine the way guns were used and understood in civilian and military realms, especially their meaning and role in the expansion of the British Empire. Finally, the essay discusses whether and how this history should influence our understanding of the Second Amendment, which was written in the eighteenth century. It concludes that history substantiates both sides of the current debate about gun use in America and that we must therefore turn to other ethical systems of judgment to resolve that debate.
Sustainability and bank risk
Authors: Scholtens Bert , van’t Klooster Sophie
Published: September 2019

Banks play a key role in society and are crucial for economic development. The existing literature finds a positive association between bank performance and sustainability, but tends to neglect the risk dimension. As human-driven processes interact with global social-ecological connectivity and exhibit cross-scale relationships, we investigate whether sustainability affects banks’ individual default risk and their systemic risk, that is, their contribution to the risk of the financial system. As banks are financial intermediaries and there is no direct measure of their sustainability, we proxy for sustainability with banks’ performance on environmental, social, and governance attributes, especially their policies and performance. We control for relevant bank, market and country characteristics. It shows that higher sustainability scores of banks significantly associate with lower default risk. We also establish that outperformance on sustainability reduces banks’ contribution to systemic risk. Thus, it appears that banks’ sustainability performance can spill over to the financial system. This implies sustainability is material for banks and their supervisors. Accounting for sustainability can augment bank risk management and prudential policy decision making, and provide guidance as to how to finance a transition towards an economic system that effectively internalizes externalities.
Exploiting the switching dynamics of HfO2-based ReRAM devices for reliable analog memristive behavior
Authors: Cüppers F. , Menzel S. , Bengel C. , Hardtdegen A. , von Witzleben M. , Böttger U. , Waser R. , Hoffmann-Eifert S.
Published: September 2019

The utilization of bipolar-type memristive devices for the realization of synaptic connectivity in neural networks strongly depends on the ability of the devices for analog conductance modulation under application of electrical stimuli in the form of identical voltage pulses. Typically, filamentary valence change mechanism (VCM)-type devices show an abrupt SET and a gradual RESET switching behavior. Thus, it is challenging to achieve an analog conductance modulation during SET and RESET. Here, we show that analog as well as binary conductance modulation can be achieved in a Pt/HfO2/TiOx/Ti VCM cell by varying the operation conditions. By analyzing the switching dynamics over many orders of magnitude and comparing to a fully dynamic switching model, the origin of the two different switching modes is revealed. SET and RESET transition show a two-step switching process: a fast conductance change succeeds a slow conductance change. While the time for the fast conductance change, the transition time, turns out to be state-independent for a specific voltage, the time for the slow conductance change, the delay time, is highly state-dependent. Analog switching can be achieved if the pulse time is a fraction of the transition time. If the pulse time is larger than the transition time, the switching becomes probabilistic and binary. Considering the effect of the device state on the delay time in addition, a procedure is proposed to find the ideal operation conditions for analog switching.
Electric field and oxygen concentration-dependent transport properties of nano-graphene oxide
Authors: Sun Yong , Kirimoto Kenta , Hattori Hayami , Kitamura Yuto , Fan Enda , Onishi Koichi
Published: September 2019

Electrical transport properties of the nano-graphene oxide were investigated by measuring current-voltage characteristics in the wide temperature range of 15 K∼450 K. The n-GO is composed of nanometer-sized intact graphene-like sp2 domains embedded in the sp3 matrix which acts as a charge transport barrier between the highly conductive sp2 domains. The oxygen in the n-GO has the concentration of 4.43 at% in the form of oxygen functional groups. Below the conduction band, four discontinuous localized states with the activation energies of 1.92 meV, 3.27 meV, 5.54 meV, and 6.58 meV were observed. These activation energies decrease with decreasing oxygen concentration and increasing external electric field in the n-GO material. Moreover, we found that the direct tunneling of charge carrier through the sp3 barrier was a dominant transport mechanism for the n-GO material. Also, unlike the activation energy of charge carrier, the transport barrier was independent of both the concentration of the oxygen functional groups and external electric field. The transport barrier was mainly determined by insulation property of the sp3 structure.
Enhanced wall turbulence model for flow over cylinder at high Reynolds number
Authors: Sreenivasan A. Aravind Raghavan , Iyer B. Kannan
Published: September 2019

Modeling of turbulent flow over cylinders at high Reynolds numbers continues to be a challenge despite extensive work available in the literature. Most models suffer from loss of accuracy or require extremely refined grids both of which render their usage very difficult for practical problems. A wall model has been developed for solving supercritical turbulent flows using the Turbulent Boundary Layer Equations (TBLE). A new way to calculate the shear stress using the model has been introduced in this work. The TBLE model requires an input velocity from the off wall Large Eddy Simulation (LES) model. The method to obtain the same has been devised using the Log-Law. Also, the calculation of the turbulent viscosity in the near wall region has been modified by varying the Von Karman coefficient as a function of velocity in the adverse pressure gradient region. The results obtained with this enhanced TBLE model have been compared with other popular turbulence models for a Re of 1.0 × 106. The TBLE model has then been used to solve two more Re of 6.5 × 105 and 2.0 × 106. The performance of the model has been compared with respect to mean drag coefficient, Root Mean Square (RMS) of lift coefficient, Strouhal number, base pressure coefficient, adverse pressure recovery and separation angle as well as the profiles for pressure and shear stress variation over the cylinder. The model is shown to be fairly accurate, robust and computationally efficient on account of its ability to work with relatively coarse grids.
When a novel metal alloy relieves stress, it chills out
Authors: Lopatka Alex
Published: September 2019

To make solid-state refrigeration technology more efficient, researchers exploit the large, reversible temperature swing of a material comprising nickel, manganese, and titanium.
Prospect of off-planet outposts spurs interest in space resources
Authors: Feder Toni
Published: September 2019

Stakeholders in space exploration consider implications of a transition from science fiction to science fact.
Getting rid of the Swedish bomb
Authors: Jonter Thomas
Published: September 2019

Early in the Cold War, Sweden’s leaders planned to acquire nuclear weapons. By the 1960s the country was an international leader of the disarmament movement.