bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ECG signal analysis using modified S‐transform
Authors: Biswal Birendra
Published: April 2017

Accurate detection of QRS complexes is essential for the investigation of heart rate variability. Several transform techniques have been proposed and extensively used for the detection and analysis of QRS complexes. In this proposed work, the de‐noised ECG signal is subjected to a modified S‐transform for QRS complex detection.The performance analysis of the proposed work is evaluated using parameters such as sensitivity, positive predictivity and accuracy. The algorithm delivers sensitivity, positive predictivity and overall accuracy of 99.91, 99.91 and 99.77%, respectively. Furthermore, a search back mechanism is employed, which specifies the filtered electrocardiogram (ECG) segment, which was traced for the true R‐peak locations. The modified S‐transform based QRS complex detection algorithm provides an excellent search back range of only ±2 samples in comparison with other earlier proposed algorithms.
Experimental investigation of the degradation mechanism of silicone rubber exposed to heat and gamma rays
Authors: Hanada Shugo , Miyamoto Maki , Hirai Naoshi , Yang Liuqing , Ohki Yoshimichi
Published: April 2017

Cable‐grade silicone rubber was aged thermally or by combining heat and gamma‐ray radiation, and resultant changes in chemical, thermal, mechanical and electrical properties were examined. The experimental results obtained in these analyses are clearly consistent with the mechanism that silicone rubber is degraded by forming cross‐linked structures via formation of abundant siloxane bonds. With further progress of degradation, decomposition becomes dominant. Reflecting these mechanisms, mechanical properties deteriorate dramatically by losing elasticity. Both the real and imaginary parts of complex permittivity decrease, which is a contrastive difference from typical ageing behaviour of organic insulating polymers. In addition, both the elongation at break and indenter modulus are good indicators of degradation of silicone rubber.
Modelling of non‐uniform lines using rational approximation and mode revealing transformation
Authors: Lima Antonio C.S. , Moura Rodolfo A.R. , Gustavsen Bjørn , Schroeder Marco A.O.
Published: April 2017

The authors present a methodology to improve the rational modelling of non‐uniform lines (NuLs). First, they formulate a segmented chain matrix representation of the NuL, which is converted into a nodal admittance formulation with respect to the two line ends. The admittance matrix is fitted with rational functions while utilising the so‐called chain matrix in combination with a mode revealing transformation matrix, to improve the identification of poorly observable modes and poles. The procedure is demonstrated for a case of a very wide river crossing where the transmission towers are over 300 m high. The results compare favourably with the ones obtained using a numerical Laplace transform.
Wideband H‐plane dielectric horn antenna
Authors: Wang Lei , Garcia‐Vigueras Maria , Alvarez‐Folgueiras Marcos , Mosig Juan R.
Published: April 2017

By flaring a dielectric waveguide in the H‐plane, an H‐plane dielectric horn is formed, which could be directly excited by an SIW feed. However, matching and radiation performances are poor due to the thinness of the substrate. To improve these performances, some periodic parallel strips are printed both on the top and bottom planes of the dielectric horn. These strips guide and leak the electromagnetic waves gradually along the horn, finally enhancing the end‐fire radiation both in H‐plane and E‐plane. Moreover, they increase the impedance bandwidth up to 38% in Ka‐band, and improve the realised gain by around 2 dB. Indeed, a gain of 14.3 dBi is achieved at the centre frequency, with a front‐to‐back ratio of 27 dB, a side‐lobe level of −22 dB in the H‐plane, and the narrowed E‐plane and H‐plane half‐power beamwidth of about 20°. The measured and simulated results agree with each other very well. In addition, the proposed H‐plane horn antenna is very compact, low cost, and could be easily integrated.
Trans‐directional coupler with adjustable coupling coefficients and reconfigurable responses
Authors: Liu Hongmei , Fang Shaojun , Wang Zhongbao
Published: April 2017

The study presents the theoretical and experimental study of a trans‐directional coupler with adjustable coupling coefficient and reconfigurable responses. The proposed coupler is composed of coupled lines, capacitors, varactor and inductors. By connecting different inductors through switches for the circuit implementation, and using varactor as compensation capacitor, the coupling coefficient of the proposed coupler can be easily controlled. It also features balanced output ports power distribution, high isolation, good return loss, and consistent output ports phase difference. In addition, when no inductors connected, the proposed coupler is reconfigured to be a crossover. Closed‐form design equations are derived by utilising the even–odd mode method. Based on these analytical equations, an experimental prototype is designed, fabricated and characterised. The measured results show that the coupling coefficient of the coupler can be adjusted from −3 to −40 dB with good isolation and return loss performances.
Microwave spectra inside the combustion chamber of a kraft recovery boiler – effects on communications
Authors: Korhonen Ilkka , Ahola Jero
Published: April 2017

Microwave‐based measurement can provide new methods and practical solutions for the challenging task of measurement inside large industrial combustion chambers. In order to measure or communicate inside a combustion chamber using microwaves, the spectrum of background noise at microwave frequencies must be known. This study investigates the basic electromagnetic spectrum in flames, concentrating on microwave frequencies from 0.1 to 19 GHz. The study introduces, as reference values, known results from forest flames and flames in controlled environments. The focus of the work is the level of background noise at microwave frequencies and the impact of this noise on radio communication inside the combustion chamber. The effects of the microwave radiation levels are compared with the requirements of practical communication systems such as Bluetooth and narrowband ISM (industrial, scientific, medical) systems at 800–950 MHz.
Scalable 2.45 GHz electrically small antenna design for metaresonator array
Authors: Sum Yee Loon , Rheinheimer Vanessa , Soong Boon‐Hee , Monteiro Paulo J.M.
Published: April 2017

In many planar antenna array designs, impedance transformers are required to interconnect the elements to ensure that their impedances are matched. However, impedance transformers take up space and reduce area utilisation. If each element is electrically small and able to function individually as an electrically small antenna (ESA), they can be combined into an array without using impedance transformers. In this study, a stubbed hexagonal shaped folded dipole ESA of one tenth of the wavelength is proposed and developed. This metamaterial inspired design of loading the folded dipole with split ring resonator overcomes the problem of fabricating ESA of one tenth of the wavelength using typical printed circuit board fabrication technologies for the 2.45 GHz band. To show the potential of using this ESA as a unit element for antenna array without using impedance transformers, a seven‐element array is designed and fabricated. By optimising the element separation distance, and stub lengths, the ESA array shows good S 11 of less than −25 dB, and gain improvement of up to 12 dB compared with a single unit ESA.
Relevance of Heart Failure in Prevention, Treatment and Prognosis of Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Haeusler Karl , Endres Matthias , Doehner Wolfram
Published: April 2017

About 1.2 million people in Germany suffer from heart failure (HF) and HF is present in about 13–29% of all patients with acute ischemic stroke. HF is a risk factor for ischemic stroke and it is accompanied by a comparably high morbidity and mortality after stroke. Only limited data are available regarding the relevance of HF in acute ischemic stroke. The hypothesis has emerged that an acute ischemic stroke may contribute to deterioration and occurrence of heart failure. Stroke prevention by oral anticoagulation is only recommended for HF patients with concomitant atrial fibrillation. This article is based on a selective literature review summarizing the present knowledge as well as current guideline recommendations and provides recommendations for clinical practice.
Effects of Cycling and Exergaming on Neurotrophic Factors in Elderly Type 2 Diabetic Men – A Preliminary Investigation
Authors: Brinkmann Christian , Schäfer Leonie , Masoud Magd , Latsch Joachim , Lay Daniel , Bloch Wilhelm , Brixius Klara
Published: April 2017

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at increased risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases. There is growing evidence that repeated exercise-induced transient increases in neurotrophic factors can augment neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. This pilot study compares the effects of 30-min submaximal cycling with those of exergaming (combining exercise and video gaming) at the same duration and same rating of perceived exertion (BORG RPE: 14-15) on serum neurotrophic factors in 8 elderly non-insulin-dependent T2DM patients (71±4 years) (2×2 crossover design). Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Heart rates were almost equal during cycling and exergaming, while lactate values were significantly higher during cycling (cycling versus exergaming: 3.7±1.1 versus 2.5±1.2 mmol/l, p<0.05). BDNF and VEGF levels were increased significantly post-cycling (+20%,+14%, p<0.05). No other significant pre-post changes were evident. This study demonstrates that acute exercise can increase neurotrophic factors (BDNF, VEGF) in elderly T2DM patients, depending on exercise mode.
Endocrine Complications of Surgical Treatment of Thyroid Cancer: An Update
Authors: Iglesias Pedro , Díez Juan
Published: April 2017

Postoperative hypoparathyroidism (HypoPT) and hypothyroidism (HypoT) are the main endocrine complications after the surgical treatment for thyroid cancer. Postsurgical HypoPT can be transient, protracted or permanent. Its frequency varies according to the underlying cervical pathology, surgical technique, and mainly the experience of the surgeon. Risk factors for HypoPT include aggressiveness of the tumor, extent of surgery, the presence of parathyroid gland in the pathologic specimen, and surgeon experience. Clinical manifestations of postsurgical HypoPT can be acute or chronic. An adequate surgical technique that minimizes trauma and preserve the vascularization of the parathyroid glands is the better procedure to reduce the risk of postoperative HypoPT. Acute hypocalcemia may be managed with intravenous or oral calcium supplements, according to the level of serum calcium and the presence of signs and symptoms. Patients with permanent HypoPT require lifelong calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Calcitriol is the vitamin D metabolite of preference because of its high activity and short half-life. Both PTH (1–34) and intact PTH (1–84) have demonstrated to be attractive options in hypoparathyroid patients who cannot maintain stable serum and urinary calcium levels with calcium and vitamin D supplementation. However, the long-term safety of these preparations has not been established. Postsurgical HypoT is an unavoidable consequence of total or near-total thyroidectomy for thyroid cancer. Replacement and suppressive therapy are necessary in these patients. Thyroid hormone suppression therapy has shown to be accompanied by a decreased risk of disease progression and recurrence; however, it may also be associated with increased risk of dysrhythmia and loss of bone mass. Therefore, the intensity of TSH suppression must be established in a personalized way after balancing risk and benefits, according to the severity of the thyroid cancer, the response to therapy, and the individual risk factors for adverse events.
Additional mass from a quartz tuning fork vibrating in He II
Authors: Gritsenko I. A. , Mykhailenko K. O. , Sokolov S. S. , Sheshin G. A.
Published: April 2017

The additional mass caused by vibrations of tuning forks in He II with resonant frequencies of 6.7, 8.5, 12.1, 25, and 33 kHz is studied experimentally. The additional mass coefficient, given by the ratio of the additional mass to the mass of the fluid displaced by the tuning fork, is determined from the measured temperature and pressure dependences of the resonance frequencies of the tuning forks. These studies were made at temperatures from 2.2 to 0.1 K and the pressure dependences of the tuning forks were found for pressures from 1 to 24.8 atm at a constant temperature of 0.365 K. It is shown that for temperatures below 0.7 K, where the viscosity of He II is negligible, the resonance frequency of the tuning fork oscillations is determined by the additional mass of the fluid. It is found that measurements of the resonance frequencies as a function of pressure can be used to determine the additional mass coefficient with an accuracy that is almost an order of magnitude higher than when the temperature dependences are used. The additional mass coefficient is observed to depend on frequency and decreases as the frequency is raised.
Optical control of dielectric permittivity in LaAl0.99Zn0.01O3-δ
Authors: Nagai Takayuki , Takahashi Hidefumi , Okazaki Ryuji , Tanabe Kenji , Terasaki Ichiro , Taniguchi Hiroki
Published: April 2017

A photo-dielectric effect (i.e., a change in dielectric permittivity due to photo-irradiation) has been demonstrated in LaAl0.99Zn0.01O3-δ. Photo-irradiation with an incident energy of 3.4 eV was found to enhance the dielectric permittivity in LaAl0.99Zn0.01O3-δ over a wide frequency range from 100 Hz to 1 MHz. The change in dielectric permittivity in the high-frequency region hardly depended on frequency and was not accompanied by an increase in dielectric loss, indicating an intrinsic photo-dielectric effect in LaAl0.99Zn0.01O3-δ that is not due to photo-conduction. The dependence of the photo-dielectric effect on incident energy suggests the existence of deep in-gap states introduced by Zn substitution. The mechanism of the photo-dielectric effect in LaAl0.99Zn0.01O3-δ relates to the dielectric response of the photo-excited electrons trapped in the deep in-gap states, which work as effective polar displacements under an applied electric field. These findings are expected to contribute to the development of photo-capacitors that enable the remote control of the dielectric response via photo-irradiation.
A model for commercial adoption of photovoltaic systems in California
Authors: Wang Wenyu , Yu Nanpeng , Johnson Raymond
Published: April 2017

To promote the installations of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems efficiently, it is important to quantify the impact of government incentive programs and solar PV system life-cycle costs on customer adoption. In this paper, a model for commercial solar PV adoption is developed with explanatory variables such as government incentive programs and solar PV system installation costs. The adoption model is built on top of the Generalized Bass diffusion framework. The model is applied to forecast the commercial solar PV adoption in Southern California. Asymptotic standard errors of the parameter estimates are calculated to verify the significance of the explanatory variables. Empirical results show that decreasing solar PV system installation costs and government incentive programs are the main forces that drove the growth of commercial solar PV adoption. In the case of Southern California, we also discover that government incentive programs and PV system installation costs have a much higher impact on large commercial customers than on small commercial customers. Our Generalized Bass diffusion model of commercial solar PV adoption yields a lower root-mean-square error than the basic Bass Diffusion model. In addition, the commercial solar PV adoption model predicted that the eventual adoption rate of solar PV systems is higher for large commercial customers.
Infrared spectra of 5-fluorouracil molecules isolated in inert Ar matrices, and their films on graphene oxide at 6 K
Authors: Ivanov A. Yu. , Leontiev V. S. , Belous L. F. , Rubin Yu. V. , Karachevtsev V. A.
Published: April 2017

The FTIR spectra of 5-fluorouracil (5FU) molecules isolated in low-temperature (T = 6 K) argon matrices were observed in the infrared range of 3800–200 cm−1. The FTIR spectra of graphene oxide (GO) films on a copper mirror at a temperature of 6 K and the spectra of 5FU films grown on GO films were recorded for the first time. Estimates of the 5FU tautomer population using quantum-mechanical methods DFT/B3LYP and MP2, and calculations of the 5FU vibrational spectra using the DFT/B3LYP/6-311++G(df,pd) method with a correction to the calculated frequencies by a third-order polynomial were performed. It is found that the population of the minor 5FU tautomers at an evaporation temperature of 375 K does not exceed 0.1%. In the spectral range of 1900–500 cm−1 ten 5FU combination modes are registered, which are amplified by the Fermi resonance. In the region of fundamental vibrations νCO, triple Fermi resonance is observed. It is demonstrated that low temperatures have little effect on the spectral characteristics of GO films. Furthermore, multiple thermal cycling between 6 and 295 K does not violate the integrity of the GO films and their thermal contact with the copper mirror. The FTIR spectra of 5FU matrix and film samples grown on different substrates are compared. A gain in the absorption band of thin-film 5FU grown on GO, in comparison to samples grown on a Cu substrate, is recorded. It is established that the infrared spectrum changes when the 5FU deposited on GO film is annealed. The relationship between these spectral changes and the polymorphism of the 5FU crystal structure is discussed.
Topological string partition function on generalised conifolds
Authors: Gasparim Elizabeth , Suzuki Bruno , Torres-Gomez Alexander , Varea Carlos A. B.
Published: April 2017

We show that the partition function on a generalised conifold Cm,n with (m+nm) crepant resolutions can be equivalently computed on the compound du Val singularity Am+n−1×ℂ with a unique crepant resolution.
IR spectrometric studies of thin film cryovacuum condensates of methane and methane-water mixtures
Authors: Drobyshev A. , Aldiyarov A. , Sokolov D.
Published: April 2017

The results of IR spectrometric studies of thin film cryovacuum condensates of methane and methane-water mixtures in the 16–36 K temperature range. The condensation pressure was P = 10−4 Torr, and the thickness of the samples varied from 1 to 5 μm. For pure methane cryocondensate, a relationship between the position of the deformation vibration absorption band and the α–β phase transition in solid methane is established. The stretching of the transition with respect to temperature and time is explained by the temperature dependence of the spin-nuclear relaxation time in methane molecules. The results of studying both 20% methane-water mixture and bilayer methane-water samples have demonstrated that in the 27–31 K temperature range there are abrupt changes to the position and amplitude of the deformation vibration absorption band ν = 1300 cm−1, which may be due to the activation of the interaction between the methane molecules and the water. A displacement of the absorption band minimum in comparison to pure methane (νm = 1306 cm−1 for the mixture versus νm = 1300 cm−1 for pure methane) is detected, which can be associated with the processes of methane clathrate formation. The transformations taking place in the film in the 27–32 K interval serve as evidence of either the continuation of the cluster formation process in the film, or of thermally stimulated structural changes already in the clustered sample.
Vibronic properties of para-polyphenylene ethynylenes: TD-DFT insights
Authors: Ho Emmeline Kim-Lien , Etienne Thibaud , Lasorne Benjamin
Published: April 2017

The first singlet excited states of a series of para-polyphenylene ethynylenes (PPEs) are investigated using time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT). Vibronic absorption spectra are calculated and show excellent agreement with the experiments, thus validating the adequacy of TD-DFT for such systems. The vibronic structure is assigned to the excitation of a few typical stretching and bending modes. The significant discrepancy between the simulated vertical-transition energies and the experimental absorption maxima in PPEs is underlined and explained. The evolution of the spectroscopic properties and of the electronic structure with the chain length is discussed and characterized.
Coulomb fission in multiply charged molecular clusters: Experiment and theory
Authors: Harris Christopher , Baptiste Joshua , Lindgren Eric B. , Besley Elena , Stace Anthony J.
Published: April 2017

A series of three multiply charged molecular clusters, (C6H6)nz+ (benzene), (CH3CN)nz+ (acetonitrile), and (C4H8O)nz+ (tetrahydrofuran), where the charge z is either 3 or 4, have been studied for the purpose of identifying the patterns of behaviour close to the charge instability limit. Experiments show that on a time scale of ∼10−4 s, ions close to the limit undergo Coulomb fission where the observed pathways exhibit considerable asymmetry in the sizes of the charged fragments and are all associated with kinetic (ejection) energies of between 1.4 and 2.2 eV. Accurate kinetic energies have been determined through a computer simulation of peak profiles recorded in the experiments and the results modelled using a theory formulated to describe how charged particles of dielectric materials interact with one another [E. Bichoutskaia et al., J. Chem. Phys. 133, 024105 (2010)]. The calculated electrostatic interaction energy between separating fragments gives an accurate account for the measured kinetic energies and also supports the conclusion that +4 ions fragment into +3 and +1 products as opposed to the alternative of two +2 fragments. This close match between the theory and experiment reinforces the assumption that a significant fraction of excess charge resides on the surfaces of the fragment ions. It is proposed that the high degree of asymmetry seen in the fragmentation patterns of the multiply charged clusters is due, in part, to limits imposed by the time window during which observations are made.
Modulation and enhancement of optical absorption of graphene-loaded plasmonic hybrid nanostructures in visible and near-infrared regions
Authors: Wan Yuan , Deng Luogen
Published: April 2017

Modulation and enhancement of the optical absorption of graphene-loaded plasmonic hybrid nanostructures is one of the important challenges for applications of graphene in advanced nanoelectronic and nanophotonic devices. In this paper, we study systematically the modulation and enhancement of optical absorption of the metal (Au)/graphene/dielectric/metal (Au) (MGDM) structure in visible and near-infrared regions. We find that the absorption intensity of the MGDM structure is significantly enhanced and is about three times higher than the absorption intensity of the traditional metal (Au)/graphene/dielectric (MGD) structure. Next, the dependence of the absorption spectra of the MGDM structure on the parameters of it, the refractive index of the external environment, the refractive index of the dielectric layer, and the graphene Fermi energy is studied. Results show there are optimal parameters of the MGDM structure for maximum absorbance of it. The absorption spectra of the MGDM structure are very sensitive to the refractive index of the external environment and the refractive index of the dielectric layer. Active modulation of the absorption spectra of the MGDM structure is realized by changing the graphene Fermi energy, and the modulation depth can be as high as 27.5%. Finally, the multi-peaks and the broad bandwidth phenomenon of the absorption spectra can be realized by forming a multi-MGDM structure. This study provides a promising platform for the application of graphene in photodetectors, tunable optical modulators, photovoltaic cells, and other plasmonic modulation devices.
Ultrafast carrier dynamics in type-II ZnO-SnO heterostructure thin films
Authors: Li Zhong-guo , Cao Hongtao , Song Anran , Liang Lingyan , Wu Xingzhi , Yang Junyi , Song Ying-lin
Published: April 2017

We investigate the carrier relaxation and charge transfer dynamics in type-II ZnO-SnO heterojunction thin films using wavelength-dependent femtosecond transient absorption measurements. Under SnO-selective excitation conditions, absorption signals related to ZnO are observed on a subpicosecond time scale, which indicates ultrafast electron transfer from SnO to ZnO. The spatial separation of electrons and holes across the ZnO-SnO interface leads to a long-lived carrier decay process with a lifetime of ∼4 ns, 2 times longer than resonant excitation of both ZnO and SnO in the heterostructures. Our results provide a framework for understanding the photophysics of tin oxide semiconductor heterostructures.
Stabilization of metallic phase in V2O3 thin film
Authors: Majid S. S. , Shukla D. K. , Rahman F. , Gautam K. , Choudhary R. J. , Sathe V. G. , Phase D. M.
Published: April 2017

The tailoring and understanding of the metal-insulator transitions (MITs) in vanadium sesquioxide, V2O3, is of major interest for both applications and fundamental physics. V2O3 has been characterized by MIT and concurrent structural transition at ∼155 K; however, the nature of the MIT has remained more elusive. We investigated the MIT and the electronic structure (in metallic phase) of the pulsed laser deposition grown strained vanadium sesquioxide thin films on Si. The strained thin films synthesized here show the suppression (by ∼23 K) of the MIT to lower temperatures, whilst the structural transition temperature decreases only by ∼10 K. Our results systematically confirm that albeit the structural changes are crucial in V2O3, electronic transition seems to be of Mott-Hubbard type. Stabilization of the metallic phase in the strained V2O3 thin film has been manifested from resistivity data and observations of the increased crystal field and quasiparticle features.
Microfluidic measurement for blood flow and platelet adhesion around a stenotic channel: Effects of tile size on the detection of platelet adhesion in a correlation map
Authors: Jung Sung Yong , Yeom Eunseop
Published: April 2017

Platelet aggregation affects the surrounding blood flow and usually occurs where a blood vessel is narrowed as a result of atherosclerosis. The relationship between blood flow and platelet aggregation is not yet fully understood. This study proposes a microfluidic method to measure the velocity and platelet aggregation simultaneously by combining the micro-particle image velocimetry technique and a correlation mapping method. The blood flow and platelet adhesion procedure in a stenotic micro-channel with 90% severity were observed for a relatively long period of 4 min. In order to investigate the effect of tile size on the detection of platelet adhesion, 2D correlation coefficients were evaluated with binary images obtained by manual labeling and the correlation mapping method with different sizes of the square tile ranging from 3 to 50 pixels. The maximum 2D correlation coefficient occurred with the optimum tile size of 5 × 5 pixels. Since the blood flow and platelet aggregation are mutually influenced by each other, blood flow and platelet adhesion were continuously varied. When there was no platelet adhesion (t = 0 min), typical blood flow is observed. The blood flow passes through the whole channel smoothly, and jet-like flow occurs in the post-stenosis region. However, the flow pattern changes when platelet adhesion starts at the stenosis apex and after the stenosis. These adhesions induce narrow high velocity regions to become wider over a range of area from upstream to downstream of the stenosis. Separated jet-like flows with two high velocity regions are also created. The changes in flow patterns may alter the patterns of platelet adhesion. As the area of the plate adhesion increases, the platelets plug the micro-channel and there is only a small amount of blood flow, finally. The microfluidic method could provide new insights for better understanding of the interactions between platelet aggregation and blood flow in various physiological conditions.
Type I interferons induced by endogenous or exogenous viral infections promote metastasis and relapse of leishmaniasis
Authors: Rossi Matteo , Castiglioni Patrik , Hartley Mary-Anne , Eren Remzi Onur , Prével Florence , Desponds Chantal , Utzschneider Daniel T. , Zehn Dietmar , Cusi Maria G. , Kuhlmann F. Matthew , Beverley Stephen M. , Ronet Catherine , Fasel Nicolas
Published: April 2017

Significance

Infection withLeishmania(Viannia) parasites can have different manifestations, ranging from localized cutaneous to disseminated and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, that are prone to relapse after the healing. We previously described the association of the endosymbiontLeishmaniaRNA virus 1 (LRV1) with increased disease severity. Here, we showed that coinfection with the lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) or Toscana virus exacerbated the outcome ofLeishmania guyanensis-induced murine leishmaniasis, favoring parasite persistence and dissemination resulting in metastasis. Both endogenous and exogenous coinfections were dependent upon type I interferon responses. Strikingly, LCMV coinfection after the healing of leishmaniasis induced disease reactivation, overriding the protective adaptive immune response. Thus, viral infections may be a significant risk factor contributing to the pathological spectrum of human leishmaniasis.
Epithelial EZH2 serves as an epigenetic determinant in experimental colitis by inhibiting TNFα-mediated inflammation and apoptosis
Authors: Liu Yongfeng , Peng Junjie , Sun Tongyu , Li Ni , Zhang Le , Ren Jiale , Yuan Huairui , Kan Shan , Pan Qiang , Li Xiang , Ding Yufeng , Jiang Min , Cong Xiaoji , Tan Minjia , Ma Yushui , Fu Da , Cai Sanjun , Xiao Yichuan , Wang Xiaoming , Qin Jun
Published: April 2017

Significance

TNFα is the key cytokine implicated in inflammatory bowel disease. However, TNFα is not always proinflammatory, because TNFα-activated NF-κB induces prosurvival proteins, including c-FLIP, to constrain caspase 8 activation. Here we report that epithelial EZH2 integrates the multifaceted effects of TNFα signaling to promote inflammation and apoptosis in colitis. EZH2 reduction directly stimulates TRAF2/5 expression to enhance TNFα-induced NF-κB signaling. More importantly, EZH2 deficiency up-regulates the expression of the E3 ligase ITCH to degrade the c-FLIP protein, thereby antagonizing the prosurvival role of NF-κB. Taken together, our results indicate that EZH2 serves as an epigenetic brake to modulate TNFα functions in colitis. Moreover, the data suggest that patients with lower levels of EZH2 might have a better response to anti-TNFα therapy.
A table-based turn-taking system and its political consequences
Authors: Mondada Lorenza , Svensson Hanna , van Schepen Nynke
Published: April 2017

Turn-taking in political settings faces the problem of how to enable the participation of larger numbers of speakers in orderly ways; solutions have been described as offered by constrained formats like the turn-type pre-allocation system or the mediated turn-taking system. This paper describes another specific solution, a table-based turn-taking system.

The study describes how facilitators managing brainstorming sessions in a participatory project exploit the spatial distribution of the citizens around tables scattered in the meeting room. By organizing discussions table by table, rather than selecting next individual speakers, the facilitators select groups and attributes specific rights and obligations to talk to “tables”, which are then treated not as a mere spatial location but as a political entity. The table-based device does not just solve problems of turn-taking management but also fosters the expression of collective opinions of the “table” as a place for building consensus.
Reverse-transcription quantitative PCR directly from cells without RNA
extraction and without isothermal reverse-transcription: a ‘zero-step’ RT-qPCR
protocol
Authors: Chovancova Petra , Merk Verena , Marx Andreas , Leist Marcel , Kranaster Ramon
Published: April 2017

We describe an ultra-rapid and sensitive method to quantify gene expression levels in cultured cells. The procedure is based on reverse-transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) directly from cells, without RNA extraction and without an isothermal reverse-transcription step. Human neurons (Lund human mesencephalic cells) were lysed at different stages of differentiation, and the lysates were used directly as template for the combined RT-qPCR reaction. We detected a down-regulation of a proliferation marker and an up-regulation of neuronal dopaminergic genes expression. We were able to detect the reference gene target from as few as a single cell, demonstrating the application of the method for efficient amplification from small cell numbers. The data were fully in line with those obtained by the standard two-step RT-qPCR from the extracted total RNA. Our ‘zero-step’ RT-qPCR method proved to be simple and reliable with a total time from cell lysis to the end of the qPCR as short as 1.5 h. It is therefore particularly suitable for RT-qPCRs where large numbers of samples must be handled, or where data are required within short time.
Detection of intrinsic variability in the eclipsing massive main-sequence O+B binary HD 165246
Authors: Johnston C. , Buysschaert B. , Tkachenko A. , Aerts C. , Neiner C.
Published: April 2017

We present the analysis of 29.77 d of K2 space photometry of the well-detached massive 4.6 d O+B binary HD 165246 (V = 7.6) obtained during Campaign 9b. This analysis reveals intrinsic variability in the residual light curve after subtraction of the binary model, in the frequency range [0, 10] d−1. This makes HD 165246 only the second O+B eclipsing binary with asteroseismic potential. While some of the frequencies are connected with the rotation of the primary, others are interpreted as due to oscillations with periodicities of order days. The frequency resolution of the current data set does not allow us to distinguish between frequencies due to standing coherent oscillation modes or travelling waves. Future time-resolved high-precision spectroscopy covering several binary orbits will reveal whether HD 165246 is a Rosetta stone for synergistic binary and seismic modelling of an O-type star.
Recognizing type 1 diabetes mellitus in children & adolescents
Authors: Glassford Melissa A.
Published: April 2017

The common chief complaint of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting should prompt a broad differential diagnosis list. When a 17-year-old previously healthy male presented to a primary care clinic with these symptoms, it provoked a detailed workup and found a startling diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This article provides an overview of recognizing T1DM in children and adolescents with a thorough and diagnostic evaluation.
“Meth Mouth”: An Interdisciplinary Review of a Dental and Psychiatric Condition
Authors: Stanciu Cornel N. , Glass Magdalena , Muzyka Brian C. , Glass Oliver M.
Published: April 2017

Objective:

Chronic methamphetamine (MA) users experience many dental problems, a condition characterized as “meth mouth.” These devastating effects on dentition is the main reason why many seek professional help. Here, we discuss the effects of MA on oral health and advocate for improved collaboration between dentists and mental health providers. We also introduce a dental evaluation tool with the goal of improving the quality of care for this often-marginalized patient population.

Methods:

A Medline literature search (1985–2016) was conducted with keywords “meth mouth,” “methamphetamine AND oral health”; “methamphetamine AND dental”; “methamphetamine AND dentist.” Results were supplemented by references gleaned from recent reviews, credible online sources, and citations of search returns.

Results:

MA predisposes users to tooth decay. They are also more likely to have missing dentition with a linear relationship correlating the number of years of use. A constellation of dental symptoms resulting from chronic MA use has been described in literature: gingival inflammation, excessive tooth wear, decreased salivary output, and severe dental caries. With continued use, mucosal lesions may appear on the lips and the gingival tissue may recede. MA can trigger bruxism, resulting in severe wear patterns and even cracked teeth.

Conclusions:

Users of MA have many unmet medical and mental health needs. An interdisciplinary approach between dentists and mental health providers can improve outcomes. The dental evaluation tool described here can improve the bidirectional collaboration between mental health and dentistry. Dental professionals are in a unique position to identify users and can facilitate referral to substance abuse treatment. Likewise, mental health providers can identify, assess severity, and prompt users for medical and dental attention.
Discharge Criteria for the Late Preterm Infant
Authors: Quinn Jenny M. , Sparks Marteen , Gephart Sheila M.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Standardized late preterm infant (LPI) discharge criteria ensure best practice and help guide the neonatal provider to determine the appropriate level of care following birth. However, the location can vary from the well newborn setting to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Purpose:

The purpose of this review is to examine differences in LPI discharge criteria between the well newborn setting and the NICU by answering the clinical questions, “What are the recommended discharge criteria for the LPI and do they differ if admitted to the well newborn setting versus the NICU?”

Search Strategy:

Databases searched include CINAHL, TRIP, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library. Focusing first on the highest level of evidence, position statements, policy statements, and clinical practice guidelines were reviewed, followed by original research.

Results:

There were few differences shown between settings. Discharge criteria included physiological stability and completed screenings for hearing loss, hyperbilirubinemia, car seat safety, hypoglycemia, critical congenital heart disease, and sepsis. Parent education is provided on umbilical cord care, feeding, elimination, and weight gain norms. Recommended maternal assessment included screenings for depression, drug use, safe home environment, and presence of social support. In general, research supported protecting the mother-infant dyad.

Implications for Practice and Research:

Developing a standardized approach for discharge criteria for LPIs may improve outcomes and reduce maternal stress. Research is needed to compare health and cost outcomes between settings.

Video Abstract available at http://links.lww.com/ANC/A29.
Less invasive approaches in total hip arthroplasty. Is anterior superior?
Authors: Ennin Kwame , Romero Jose A. , Hull Brandon
Published: April 2017

With changes in healthcare reimbursement, increasing patient education regarding surgical techniques, patient desire for quicker return to function, and shorter hospital stays, the direct anterior approach is gaining traction around the field of total hip arthroplasty. Early reports on the direct anterior approach for total hip arthroplasty cited high complication rates, a steep surgeon learning curve, and no significant difference in patient outcome. In this review, we evaluate the current literature to answer questions about total hip arthroplasty in regards to the direct anterior approach. The direct anterior approach utilizes the plane between the sartorius and tensor fascia lata muscles to form a true internervous and intermuscular plane, theoretically reducing postoperative pain and inflammation and facilitating faster hospital turnover and better patient satisfaction.
Congenital Etiology Is an Independent Risk Factor for Complications in Adolescents Undergoing Corrective Scoliosis Surgery: Comparison of In-hospital Comorbidities Using Nationwide KID’s Inpatient Database
Authors: Poorman Gregory W. , Jalai Cyrus M. , Diebo Bassel , Vira Shaleen , Buza John , Baker Joe , Tishelman Jared , Horn Samantha , Bono Olivia , Shenoy Kartik , Hasan Saqib , Paul Justin , Isaacs Evan , Kaye Ian , Atanda Abiola , Buckland Aaron J. , LaFage Virginie , Errico Thomas , Passias Peter G.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Congenital scoliosis (CS) is associated with more rigid, complex deformities relative to adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) which theoretically increases surgical complications. Despite extensive literature studying AIS patients, few studies have been performed on CS patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate complications associated with spinal fusions for CS and AIS.

Methods:

A retrospective review of the Kid’s Inpatient Database (KID) years 2000 to 2009 was performed. Inclusion: patients under 20 years with ICD-9 diagnosis codes for idiopathic scoliosis (IS—without concomitant congenital anomalies) and CS, undergoing spinal fusion from the KID years 2000 to 2009. Two analyses were performed according to age below 10 years and 10 years and above. Univariate analysis described differences in demographics, comorbidities, intraoperative complications, and clinical values between groups. Binary logistic regression controlling for age, sex, race, and invasiveness predicted complications risk in CS (odds ratios; 95% confidence interval).

Results:

In total, 25,131 patients included (IS, n=22443; CS, n=2688). For patients under age 10, CS patients underwent 1 level shorter fusions (P<0.001), had fewer comorbidities (P<0.001), and sustained similar complication incidence. In the 10 and over age analysis, CS patients similarly had shorter fusions, but greater comorbidities, and significantly more complications (odds ratio, 1.6; confidence interval, 1.4-1.8).

Conclusions:

CS patients have higher in-hospital complication rates. With more comorbidities, these patients have increased risk of sustaining procedure-related complications such as shock, infection, and Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome. These data help to counsel patients and their families before spinal fusion.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—retrospective review of a prospectively collected database.
The Utility of Routine Postoperative Radiographs After Pinning of Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures
Authors: Karalius Vytas P. , Stanfield Jacob , Ashley Philip , Lewallen Laura W. , DeDeugd Casey M. , Walker Janet , Larson Annalise N. , Milbrandt Todd A.
Published: April 2017

Background:

The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency with which postoperative radiographs resulted in a change in management following closed reduction and percutaneous pinning of displaced pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. We hypothesize that only the initial postoperative radiograph will lead to changes in management of operative supracondylar humerus fractures.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed at 2 level I pediatric trauma centers. Inclusion criteria were patients below 18 years of age who sustained supracondylar humerus fractures (Gartland type II, III, IV) who were operatively treated from 2008 to 2013 with adequate radiographic follow-up. Patients with flexion type, intra-articular, transphyseal, and open fractures were excluded from the study. Routine radiographs were taken at initial follow-up (1 wk postoperatively) and at pin removal (3 to 4 wk postoperatively).

Results:

The final analysis included 572 patients. Initial postoperative radiographs changed treatment in 9 patients (1.6%), including revision surgeries, 2 pin adjustments, and 2 early pin removals. At the time of pin removal, 20 (3.5%) patients required further immobilization. There were no changes to the initial plan for continued nonoperative treatment at final follow-up (6 to 8 wk postoperatively).

Conclusions:

In this large retrospective series of patients treated with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning of displaced supracondylar humerus fractures, radiographs at 3 weeks do not reveal a need to return to the operating room or other significant pathology. These findings suggest that radiographs should be obtained within 7 to 10 days postoperatively for type III fractures and may only need to be repeated if the clinical situation warrants it, such as severe fracture pattern, persistent pain, or clinical deformity.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—case series.
Radiologic Parameters Can Affect the Preoperative Decision Making of Three-Column Spinal Osteotomies in the Treatment of Severe and Stiff Kyphoscoliosis
Authors: Fan Hengwei , Li Xueshi , Huang Zifang , Sui Wenyuan , Yang Jingfan , Deng Yaolong , Wang Chongwen , Lang Chuandong , Yang Junlin
Published: April 2017

Study Design.

Retrospective analysis.

Objective.

To evaluate whether radiologic parameters affect spine surgeon's osteotomy choice in patients with severe and stiff thoracic kyphoscoliosis.

Summary of Background Data.

Three-column osteotomies were developed to address severe and stiff kyphoscoliosis. Current choice on osteotomies is based on the morphology of kyphosis, global balance, and locations of the main curvature; however, quantitative basis for decision making is still lacking.

Methods.

Sixty patients with severe and stiff thoracic kyphoscoliosis who underwent three-column osteotomy in the thoracic spine were classified into four groups according to the grade of osteotomy. The radiologic parameters including maximum scoliosis, maximum kyphosis, deformity angular ratio (DAR; maximum Cobb angle divided by number of vertebrae involved), apical vertebral translation, coronal balance, and sagittal balance were measured and compared. Correlation analysis between the radiologic parameters and the osteotomy grades was conducted. Perioperative and long-term complications were reviewed.

Results.

The overall scoliosis was corrected from a mean preoperative Cobb angle of 129.1° (range, 90–174°) to 56.4° (range, 14–100°), and overall kyphosis was corrected from 124.3° (range, 64–180°) to 54.3° (range, 11–95°). As the osteotomy grades increased, the mean preoperative maximum kyphosis increased from 104.5° to 151.8° and the mean sagittal DAR (S-DAR) increased from 16.4 to 24.9. Statistically significant between-group differences were found for preoperative maximum kyphosis (P = 0.001), S-DAR (P = 0.045), and total DAR (P = 0.033). Significant correlations were observed between the preoperative maximum kyphosis and the osteotomy grade (r = 0.454, P < 0.001). The S-DAR significantly correlated with the osteotomy grade (r = 0.322, P = 0.012).

Conclusion.

The preoperative maximum kyphosis and the S-DAR may affect the surgeon's decision on the grade of osteotomies. This may enrich the theoretical basis on preoperative planning and help with patient counseling.

Level of Evidence: 4