bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Niger discharge from radar altimetry: Bridging gaps between gauge
and altimetry time series
Authors: Schröder Stefan , Springer Anne , Kusche Jürgen , Uebbing Bernd , Fenoglio-Marc Luciana , Diekkrüger Bernd , Poméon Thomas
Published: January 2019

Abstract. The Niger river represents a challenging target for deriving discharge from spaceborne radar altimeter measurements, in particular since most terrestrial gauges ceased to provide data during the 2000s. Here, we propose to derive altimetric rating curves by bridging gaps between time series from gauge and altimeter measurements using hydrological model simulations. We show that classical pulse-limited altimetry (Jason-1 and-2, Envisat, Saral/Altika) subsequently reproduces discharge well and enables continuing the gauge time series, albeit at lower temporal resolution. Also, SAR altimetry picks up quite well the signal measured by earlier altimeters and allows to build extended time-series of higher quality. However, radar retracking is necessary for pulse-limited altimetry and needs to be further investigated for SAR. Moreover, forcing data for calibrating and running the hydrological models must be chosen carefully. Furthermore, stage-discharge relations must be fitted empirically and may need to allow for breakpoints.
Crystallographic preferred orientations of ice deformed in direct-shear experiments at low temperatures
Authors: Qi Chao , Prior David J. , Craw Lisa , Fan Sheng , Llorens Maria-Gema , Griera Albert , Negrini Marianne , Bons Paul D. , Goldsby David L.
Published: February 2019

Abstract. Synthetic polycrystalline ice was sheared at temperatures of −5, −20 and
−30 ∘C, to different shear strains, up to γ=2.6,
equivalent to a maximum stretch of 2.94 (final line length is 2.94 times the
original length). Cryo-electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis shows
that basal intracrystalline slip planes become preferentially oriented
parallel to the shear plane in all experiments, with a primary cluster of
crystal c axes (the c axis is perpendicular to the basal plane)
perpendicular to the shear plane. In all except the two highest-strain
experiments at −30 ∘C, a secondary cluster of c axes is
observed, at an angle to the primary cluster. With increasing strain, the
primary c-axis cluster strengthens. With increasing temperature, both
clusters strengthen. In the −5 ∘C experiments, the angle between
the two clusters reduces with strain. The c-axis clusters are elongated
perpendicular to the shear direction. This elongation increases with
increasing shear strain and with decreasing temperature. Highly curved grain
boundaries are more prevalent in samples sheared at higher temperatures. At
each temperature, the proportion of curved boundaries decreases with
increasing shear strain. Subgrains are observed in all samples.
Microstructural interpretations and comparisons of the data from
experimentally sheared samples with numerical models suggest that the
observed crystallographic orientation patterns result from a balance of the
rates of lattice rotation (during dislocation creep) and growth of grains by
strain-induced grain boundary migration (GBM). GBM is faster at higher
temperatures and becomes less important as shear strain increases. These
observations and interpretations provide a hypothesis to be tested in further
experiments and using numerical models, with the ultimate goal of aiding the
interpretation of crystallographic preferred orientations in naturally
deformed ice.
THE SAFE COMMUNITY CONCEPT – A SUCCESSFUL TOOL FOR INJURY PREVENTION AND SAFETY PROMOTION
Authors: Strukčinskienė Birutė , Distl Sabine , Griškonis Sigitas
Published: January 2019

Injuries remain to be one of the leading causes of de­ath and disability in any region of the world. Interna­tional Safe Community Programme is most important programme for injury prevention and safety promo­tion in community. The aim of study was to introduce the concept of Safe Community as a successful tool for injury prevention and safety promotion. For this study, the scientific literature overview, document analysis, and descriptive analysis were used. The Safe Community model is a long-term, sustaina­ble, and coordinated program, based on partnership and collaboration, covering all genders, ages, envi­ronments, and situations. Safe Community concept targets vulnerable groups and high-risk environments. Programme documents the frequency and causes of injuries, and has evaluation mechanisms. Commu­nity itself play the leading role in Safe Community. Reduced injury rate/morbidity, disability, and mor­tality from injuries, and improved quality of life, are the results of comprehensive sustainable preventive work at the community level. The subcategory Safe Schools are promising preventive programmes in­tended to enhance child safety.
Important Dimensions of Digital Divide: A case study of NADRA Portal Pakistan
Authors: Hassan Shah , Madad Ali , Asma - , Das Narain , Akhtar Sadia , Jahan Noor
Published: January 2019

The aim and purpose of this paper is to contribute and understand the nature of the digital divide as it affects the Pakistani citizens, who are users of NADRA online portal. To study the digital divide; NADRA is the best case because this institute is rich in this context; it is the most developed e-services provider of the government of Pakistan. It is compulsory for every citizen of Pakistan to get register with NADRA to avail facilities of Travelling within and outside the country, to have a bank account, apply for jobs, having a house, driving license and many more. To conduct the survey data was collected from the citizen of Pakistan living in Turkey, China, and Pakistan. 355 responses were collected, and ANOVA and t-test were perform using SPSS-16. Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was used to measure the attitude and intention of individuals towards e-services provided by government whereas, demographic, geographic, education and computer and internet experiences are the digital divide dimensions. Results reveal that location, education, and computer and internet significantly affect the user attitude and intention whereas gender and age are not significant. Overall, this study offers an understanding of complex of digital divide concepts.
Foucault y el gobierno de las imágenes
Authors: Amar Mauricio
Published: January 2019

El análisis de la obra de Michel Foucault ha sido prolífico en entender su mirada sobre la aparición de enunciados discursivos, dejando de lado, salvo excepciones, el problema de las imágenes en este pensador. Aunque considerados como dos ámbitos separados e irreductibles entre sí, el discurso y la imagen no sólo se complementan sino que dan forma al a priori histórico en el que es posible decir algo. Un a priori construido por las relaciones de poder, que puede ser comprendido a través de paradigmas visuales como el panóptico o las heterotopías. Lo que resulta importante en el pensamiento de Foucault sobre las imágenes es el lugar decisivo que ocupa el orden. Al igual que en el discurso, tanto si el orden se presenta de un modo opresivo, puede ser también dispuesto de otra manera.
Ensayo introductorio a los pluralismos epistemológicos en Filosofía de la Ciencia
Authors: Aguilera Retamal Gonzalo
Published: January 2019

En torno al tópico de las relaciones interteóricas existen dos posturas: por un lado, está el reduccionismo, el cual supone que dentro de una disciplina científica siempre existirá reducción de la teoría más débil explicativamente a la teoría más fuerte y, por el otro, está el pluralismo que niega la tesis reduccionista. El presente artículo tiene como objetivo general profundizar en la estructura conceptual de la postura pluralista y se divide en tres partes cuyas metas son: primero, presentar antecedentes intelectuales poco conocidos de la postura epistemológica pluralista, así como también algunos de sus argumentos para su defensa. Segundo, desarrollar los dos contextos en filosofía de las ciencias en los cuales el pluralismo aparece como una solución posible en contraste con el monismo y el reduccionismo. Tercero, la posibilidad de establecer la necesidad de la relación entre inconmensurabilidad y pluralismo para definirlo como una postura que se opone al reduccionismo como un hecho necesario del desarrollo de las ciencias.
Marioneta y de-formación tensiva en Suspensions (1976 - 1980) de Sterlac: en torno al individuo y subjetividad en el cuerpo
Authors: Urtubia Odekerken Victoria
Published: January 2019

Este artículo propone una aproximación al trabajo performático de Stelarc (1976-1980), llamado Suspensions, el cual aborda la problematización de la “auto-afección” de la experiencia estética en relación con la configuración espacial del cuerpo, cuya implicancia es la intervención del orden simbólico y gravitacional de éste a través de las tensiones de zonas de la piel. Aquella intervención plantea la cuestión sobre la subjetivación del cuerpo –o su interiorización inmanente– por la auto-afección y la exteriorización de la noción de individuo, en relación con los conceptos tiempo y espacio para la interioridad del ‘sí mismo’, asociados a la subjetividad de la estética moderna. Así, Stelarc inicia en Suspensions su trayectoria hacia la fortaleza de la individuación.
Exploring strategies for promoting trauma-informed care and reducing burnout in acute care psychiatric nursing
Authors: Wampole Donna M. , Bressi Sara K.
Published: January 2019

Psychiatric nurses in inpatient settings provide person-centered and relationship-based care to persons in acute distress from behavioral health and substance use problems. The emotional labor of this highly interpersonal care is further complicated by the high rates of historical trauma among this population. This article summarizes the impact of trauma on patients in acute psychiatric settings, the impact of challenging organizational contexts and patient distress on nurse burnout, and proposes four strategies for promoting trauma-informed care by inpatient psychiatric nurses including a) promoting education of nurses on the impacts of trauma, b) building support among nurse colleagues, c) emphasizing clinical skills in coping with patient distress, and d) implementing mindfulness skills as a core coping strategy for nurses for managing their reactions to patient distress. Trauma-inforced care holds patient safety as primary to clinical effectiveness and is also crucial for promoting supportive patient-nurse relationships. As such, trauma-informed care has the potential to combat nurse burnout and improve outcomes for patients.
Current Trends in Sex, Race, and Ethnic Diversity in Orthopaedic Surgery Residency
Authors: Poon Selina , Kiridly Daniel , Mutawakkil Muhammad , Wendolowski Stephen , Gecelter Rachel , Kline Myriam , Lane Lewis B.
Published: February 2019

Background:

The representation of minorities among medical students has increased over the past two decades, but diversity among orthopaedic residents lags behind. This phenomenon has occurred despite a recent focus by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons on the recruitment of minorities and women.

Objective:

To analyze the impact of recent efforts on diversity in orthopaedic residents in comparison with other surgical specialties from 2006 to 2015.

Methods:

Data from the American Association of Medical Colleges on residents in surgical specialty programs in the years 2006 to 2015 were analyzed. Linear regression models were used to estimate trends in diversity among orthopaedic residents and residents in other surgical specialties. A mixed model analysis of variance was used to compare rates of diversification among different specialties over time.

Results:

Female representation in orthopaedic programs increased from 10.9% to 14.4% between 2006 and 2015. However, the rate of increase was significantly lower compared with other specialties (all P < 0.05) studied, except for urology (P = 0.64). Minority representation in orthopaedics averaged 25.6% over the 10-year period. Residents of Hispanic origin in orthopaedic programs increased (P = 0.0003) but decreased for Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (P < 0.0001). During the same period, white representation increased (P = 0.004). No significant changes were found in African Americans or Asian American representation. Diversity decreased among orthopaedic residents over the period studied (P = 0.004).

Conclusions:

Recruitment efforts have not reversed the sex, racial, and ethnic disparities in orthopaedic residents. Orthopaedics has the lowest representation of women and minorities among residencies studied. The rate of increase in women lags behind all surgical subspecialties, except for urology.
La Competencia en TIC del profesorado no universitario
Authors: Casal Otero Lorena , Fernández Morante Carmen , Cebreiro López Beatriz
Published: February 2019

Este artículo presenta los resultados de un estudio realizado a nivel estatal centrado en conocer el nivel de competencia en Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC) del profesorado no universitario. Concretamente indaga acerca del nivel de competencia para el manejo técnico de las TIC y para su uso didáctico. El estudio es de tipo descriptivo y está en línea con investigaciones realizadas en las últimas décadas centradas en la competencia para el uso de las TIC del profesorado. La muestra se constituye por 469 docentes que en el momento de la recogida de datos estaban realizando cursos de formación continua del Sindicato de Trabajadores de la Enseñanza de la Unión General de Trabajadores (UGT). Los resultados están en línea con las investigaciones realizadas hasta el momento, se ha perpetuado una situación y los esfuerzos que la Administración educativa ha realizado para la dotación de tecnologías no han ido acompañados de la formación necesaria para que el profesorado haya adquirido una competencia en TIC que podamos considerar aceptable

This article presents the results of a study conducted at the state level focused on knowing the level of competence in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) of non-university teaching staff. Specifically, it inquires about the level of competence for the technical management of ICT and for its didactic use. The study is of a descriptive type and is in line with research carried out in the last decades focused on the competence for the use of the ICT of the teaching staff. The sample consists of 469 teachers who, at the time of data collection, were taking continuing education courses from the Union of Workers of the Teaching of the General Union of Workers (UGT). The results are in line with the research carried out so far, a situation has been perpetuated and the efforts that the Educational Administration has made for the provision of technologies have not been accompanied by the necessary training so that the teaching staff has acquired a competence in ICT that we can consider acceptable.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor Use and Risk of Gastrointestinal and Intracranial Bleeding
Authors: Yuet Wei Cheng , Derasari Dhvani , Sivoravong Jon , Mason David , Jann Michael
Published: January 2019

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are among the most commonly prescribed medications in the United States. Although SSRIs are highly tolerable relative to other antidepressants, they are associated with a number of adverse effects, including increased gastrointestinal tract bleeding and intracranial bleeding. Mechanisms include increased gastric acid secretion and inhibition of serotonin entrance into platelets. Patients with other bleeding risk factors, such as warfarin, clopidogrel, or aspirin use, may be at heightened risk of these adverse effects. The purpose of this article is to review the incidence of gastrointestinal tract bleeding or intracranial bleeding associated with concomitant SSRI use, the proposed mechanisms of, and the potential pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic interactions with anticoagulants and antiplatelets. Given the prevalence of SSRI use in the ambulatory setting, osteopathic physicians should be aware of potential drug-drug interactions and the clinical implications of SSRI-associated bleeding risk.
Imaging breast with implants – a Swedish perspective
Authors: Holst Mathilda , Valber Nicole Marina , Dumky Hanna , Ekber Jessica , Fridell Kent
Published: January 2019

Background: Today, the most common cancer among women in Sweden is breast cancer. To detect and treat cancer at an early stage, women between 40-74 years are offered mammographic screening. However, it is becoming more common with women having breast implants, which causes some difficulties in meeting the image criteria in mammographic screening. Therefore, Eklund’s technique is preferred to optimize the detection of breast cancer for women with breast implants.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to report and describe the screening protocol of several mammography clinics for imaging breasts with implants.

Method: A survey with four open questions was distributed, and then interpreted and reported in a quantitative manner. Out of 28 contacted mammography clinics, 24 responded.

Result: The results of the study show that most of the participating clinics were using Eklund´s pushback technique without knowing it. There were significant differences in the selection of projection and compression pressure for the mammographic screening. 

Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that guidelines are recommended to ensure that every clinic in Sweden is working evidence-based and that women can be offered equal care.
A new segmentation algorithm for measuring CBCT images of nasal airway: a pilot study
Authors: Zhang Chen , Bruggink Robin , Baan Frank , Bronkhorst Ewald , Maal Thomas , He Hong , Ongkosuwito Edwin M.
Published: January 2019

Background

Three-dimensional (3D) modeling of the nasal airway space is becoming increasingly important for assessment in breathing disorders. Processing cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of this region is complicated, however, by the intricate anatomy of the sinuses compared to the simpler nasopharynx. A gold standard for these measures also is lacking. Previous work has shown that software programs can vary in accuracy and reproducibility outcomes of these measurements. This study reports the reproducibility and accuracy of an algorithm, airway segmentor (AS), designed for nasal airway space analysis using a 3D printed anthropomorphic nasal airway model.

Methods

To test reproducibility, two examiners independently used AS to edit and segment 10 nasal airway CBCT scans. The intra- and inter-examiner reproducibility of the nasal airway volume was evaluated using paired t-tests and intraclass correlation coefficients. For accuracy testing, the CBCT data for pairs of nasal cavities were 3D printed to form hollow shell models. The water-equivalent method was used to calculate the inner volume as the gold standard, and the models were then embedded into a dry human skull as a phantom and subjected to CBCT. AS, along with the software programs MIMICS 19.0 and INVIVO 5, was applied to calculate the inner volume of the models from the CBCT scan of the phantom. The accuracy was reported as a percentage of the gold standard.

Results

The intra-examiner reproducibility was high, and the inter-examiner reproducibility was clinically acceptable. AS and MIMICS presented accurate volume calculations, while INVIVO 5 significantly overestimated the mockup of the nasal airway volume.

Conclusion

With the aid of a 3D printing technique, the new algorithm AS was found to be a clinically reliable and accurate tool for the segmentation and reconstruction of the nasal airway space.
Optimizing influenza vaccine policies for controlling 2009-like pandemics and regular outbreaks
Authors: Chen Sheng-I , Wu Chia-Yuan , Wu Yu-Hsuan , Hsieh Min-Wei
Published: January 2019

Background

This study examined the effectiveness of various vaccine policies against influenza. The transmission rate was calculated by use of the time-series influenza-like illness case during the year of 2009 and recent epidemics in Taiwan.

Methods

We developed a stochastic compartmental model to analyze the transmission of influenza, where the population was stratified by location and age group, and the vaccine distribution was considered using the current policy. The simulation study compared the previous vaccine policy and a new policy with expanded coverage and various lengths of the vaccination campaign. The sensitivity analysis investigated different levels of vaccine efficacy to confirm the robustness of the recommended policies.

Results

Doubling vaccine coverage can decrease the number of infections effectively in the regular epidemic scenario. However, a peak of infections occurs if the duration of implementing vaccination is too long. In the 2009-like pandemic scenario, both increasing vaccine doses and reducing the program’s duration can mitigate infections, although the early outbreak restricts the effectiveness of vaccination programs.

Conclusions

The finding indicates that only increasing vaccine coverage can reduce influenza infections. To avoid the peak of infections, it is also necessary to execute the vaccination activity immediately. Vaccine efficacy significantly impacts the vaccination policy’s performance. When vaccine efficacy is low, neither increasing vaccination doses nor reducing vaccination timeframe prevents infections. Therefore, the variation in vaccine efficacy should be taken into account when making immunization policies against influenza.
Thermodynamically Controlled Self‐Assembly of Hierarchically Staggered Architecture as an Osteoinductive Alternative to Bone Autografts
Authors: Liu Yan , Luo Dan , Yu Min , Wang Yu , Jin Shanshan , Li Zixin , Cui Shengjie , He Danqing , Zhang Ting , Wang Tie , Zhou Yanheng
Published: January 2019

Osteoinductive synthetic biomaterials for replacing autografts can be developed by mimicking bone hierarchy and surface topography for host cell recruitment and differentiation. Until now, it has been challenging to reproduce a bone‐like staggered hierarchical structure since the energy change underlying synthetic pathways in vitro is essentially different from that of the natural process in vivo. Herein, a bone‐like hierarchically staggered architecture is reproduced under thermodynamic control involving two steps: fabrication of a high‐energy polyacrylic acid‐calcium intermediate and selective mineralization in collagenous gap regions driven by an energetically downhill process. The intermediate energy interval could easily be adjusted to determine different mineralization modes, with distinct morphologies and biofunctions. Similar to bone autografts, the staggered architecture offers a bone‐specific microenvironment for stem cell recruitment and multidifferentiation in vitro, and induces neo‐bone formation with bone marrow blood vessels by host stem cell homing in vivo. This work provides a novel perspective for an in vitro simulating biological mineralization process and proof of concept for the clinical application of smart biomaterials.
Highly Permeable Skin Patch with Conductive Hierarchical Architectures Inspired by Amphibians and Octopi for Omnidirectionally Enhanced Wet Adhesion
Authors: Kim Da Wan , Baik Sangyul , Min Hyeongho , Chun Sungwoo , Lee Heon Joon , Kim Ki Hyun , Lee Jun Young , Pang Changhyun
Published: January 2019

Amphibian adhesion systems can enhance adhesion forces on wet or rough surfaces via hexagonal architectures, enabling omnidirectional peel resistance and drainage against wet and rough surfaces, often under flowing water. In addition, an octopus has versatile suction cups with convex cup structures located inside the suction chambers for strong adhesion in various dry and wet conditions. Highly air‐permeable, water‐drainable, and reusable skin patches with enhanced pulling adhesion and omnidirectional peel resistance, inspired by the microchannel network in the toe pads of tree frogs and convex cups in the suckers of octopi, are presented. By investigating various geometric parameters of microchannels on the adhesive surface, a simple model to maximize peeling strength via a time‐dependent zig‐zag profile and an arresting effect against crack propagation is first developed. Octopus‐like convex cups are employed on the top surfaces of the hexagonal structures to improve adhesion on skin in sweaty and even flowing water conditions. The amount of reduced graphene oxide nanoplatelets coated on the frog and octopus‐inspired hierarchical architectures is controlled to utilize the patches as flexible electrodes which can monitor electrocardiography signals without delamination from wet skin under motion.
Highly Efficient In Vivo Cancer Therapy by an Implantable Magnet Triboelectric Nanogenerator
Authors: Zhao Chaochao , Feng Hongqing , Zhang Lijun , Li Zhe , Zou Yang , Tan Puchuan , Ouyang Han , Jiang Dongjie , Yu Min , Wang Chan , Li Hu , Xu Lingling , Wei Wei , Li Zhou
Published: January 2019

In this work, a nanogenerator‐controlled drug delivery system (DDS) for use in cancer therapy is successfully established. A new magnet triboelectric nanogenerator (MTENG) is fabricated that can guarantee the contact and detach cycle between the two friction layers and effectively increase the TENG output, up to 70 V after implantation. Using a special structural design, without the commonly used spacer, this contacting‐mode MTENG can ensure a high and consistent electricity output after encapsulation and implantation. Doxorubicin‐(DOX‐) loaded red blood cells (RBCs) are employed as the anti‐tumor DDS in this study. After DOX loading, the RBC membranes are stable and the self‐release is very slow. However, upon electric stimulation from the MTENG, the release of DOX is remarkably increased, and falls back to normal again after the stimulation. Thus a controllable DDS is established. The MTENG‐controllable DDS achieves an outstanding killing of carcinomatous cells both in vitro and in vivo at a low DOX dosage. These results demonstrate a prominent therapeutic effect of the MTENG‐controlled DDS for cancer therapy, which is highly promising for application in the clinic.
Chalcogenide Phase Change Material for Active Terahertz Photonics
Authors: Pitchappa Prakash , Kumar Abhishek , Prakash Saurav , Jani Hariom , Venkatesan Thirumalai , Singh Ranjan
Published: January 2019

The strikingly contrasting optical properties of various phases of chalcogenide phase change materials (PCM) has recently led to the development of novel photonic devices such as all‐optical non‐von Neumann memory, nanopixel displays, color rendering, and reconfigurable nanoplasmonics. However, the exploration of chalcogenide photonics is currently limited to optical and infrared frequencies. Here, a phase change material integrated terahertz metamaterial for multilevel nonvolatile resonance switching with spatial and temporal selectivity is demonstrated. By controlling the crystalline proportion of the PCM film, multilevel, non‐volatile, terahertz resonance switching states with long retention time at zero hold power are realized. Spatially selective reconfiguration at sub‐metamaterial scale is shown by delivering electrical stimulus locally through designer interconnect architecture. The PCM metamaterial also features ultrafast optical modulation of terahertz resonances with tunable switching speed based on the crystalline order of the PCM film. The multilevel nonvolatile, spatially selective, and temporally tunable PCM metamaterial will provide a pathway toward development of novel and disruptive terahertz technologies including spatio‐temporal terahertz modulators for high speed wireless communication, neuromorphic photonics, and machine‐learning metamaterials.
Generation of Solvent‐Free 3D Lipid Structure Arrays on High Aspect Ratio Si Microwell Substrate
Authors: Han Won Bae , Kwak Rhokyun , Kang Ji Yoon , Kim Tae Song
Published: January 2019

Artificial lipid membranes are versatile platforms that are used extensively in biological assays and sensing applications. Particularly, a 2D bilayer lipid membrane (BLM) has been focused on over the last several decades as it can be formed easily on solid supports by various methods. However, 3D lipid structures with structural advantages, such as large surface area that can accommodate a number of proteins and steric conformation that can react with target molecules efficiently, for use as highly sensitive sensors rarely have been studied due to the technical limitations of sealing and stability. Herein, the growth mechanism and condition for the formation of a solvent‐free, 3D lipid structure array (≈300 000 ea cm−2) tightly bound on a microwell array by a gentle hydration method are investigated. Then, applying an electric field during rehydration step, 3D unilamellar structure array with high uniformity (coefficient of variation (CV): ≈4.9%) can be formed. A pore‐forming protein assay (α‐hemolysin) shows that the proposed structures are completely sealed and have biofunctionality that allows them to be used for fluorescent signal measurement, which is essential for biosensing applications. This approach is expected to be a promising first step toward the development of artificial biomimetic sensory organs that have high sensitivity.
Multifunctional Soft Actuators Based on Anisotropic Paper/Polymer Bilayer Toward Bioinspired Applications
Authors: Hu Ying , Xu Aifeng , Liu Jiaqin , Yang Lulu , Chang Longfei , Huang Majing , Gu Weibing , Wu Guan , Lu Pin , Chen Wei , Wu Yucheng
Published: January 2019

Designing artificial muscle actuators with diversely complex deformation and multifunction is crucial to the soft robots and their bioinspired applications. Herein, by combing the hygroexpansion and thermal expansion commonly existed in nature, electrically driven paper‐based bilayer actuator is fabricated by a simple printing method. This actuator exhibits large (270°) and anisotropic deformation coupled with features of low‐cost, superior stability, and additional reversible color‐change function. More importantly, the tailoring and heat setting are used to further design the actuator shape, thus obtain multiform deformation (bending, elongation, and folding), and more complicated deformation similar to the arm motion. Based on these actuators, variously bioinspired motions can be constructed. Inspired by the structure of the crystalline lens and ciliary muscle in human eyeball, a biomimetic lens which can change the focal length under electrical stimulation is fabricated. Moreover, W‐shaped robotic arm for manipulating microliquid in 3D direction and catapulting the object into air, in‐pipe spiral robotic arm for pushing objects out of the pipe, and artificial snake capable of deformation and color‐change simultaneously, are also fabricated. This paper‐based actuator together with bioinspired design may open new perspective on the multifunctional smart robots and biomimetic devices.
Reversible Specific Vapoluminescence Behavior in Pure Organic Crystals through Hydrogen‐Bonding Docking Strategy
Authors: Xia Guomin , Jiang Zhengjun , Shen Shen , Liang Kangli , Shao Qingqing , Cong Zhenxing , Wang Hongming
Published: January 2019

The design of vapoluminescence materials with high contrast, selectivity, and reversibility toward certain vapors is extremely attractive but remains a long‐standing challenge. In this work, crystallization of squaraine dye (SQ) molecules in different solvents affords two organic crystals (R‐SQ and SQ‐2TFA) with the fluorescence quantum yield up to 0.81, which shows reversible phase transition of the crystals with different emission color via annealing treatment and solvent‐vapor adsorption. From spectral and powder X‐ray diffraction analysis, exposure of green‐emitting R‐SQ crystals to trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) vapor gives cyan‐emitting SQ‐2TFA crystals, while desorption of SQ‐2TFA crystals by heating recovers R‐SQ crystals. With a comparison of their crystal structures, this reversible luminescence alternation is ascribed to the crystal rearrangements with formation and collapse of hydrogen‐bonded organic frameworks between SQ and TFA molecules, thus leads to a docking strategy for specific detection of TFA vapor. Meanwhile, various emission behaviors such as aggregation‐induced emission, crystallization‐induced emission enhancement, and mechanochromism of the crystals are verified. The research not only inaugurates a novel strategy for detection of specific certain vapor in pure organic crystals but also demonstrates a pair of excellent crystalline‐to‐crystalline model for deeply understanding various organic emission behaviors.
Enantioselective Access to Chiral Cyclic Sulfamidates Through Iridium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation
Authors: Liu Yuanhua , Huang Yi , Yi Zhiyuan , Liu Gongyi , Dong Xiu‐Qin , Zhang Xumu
Published: January 2019

The Iridium‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of cyclic sulfamidate imines was successfully developed with N‐methylated ZhaoPhos L2 as the ligand. A variety of chiral cyclic sulfamidates were obtained with excellent results (up to 99% yield, 99% ee). Furthermore, this asymmetric hydrogenation can be employed as the key reaction step to prepare the important intermediates in organic synthesis.

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A Bioelectronic Platform Modulates pH in Biologically Relevant Conditions
Authors: Strakosas Xenofon , Selberg John , Zhang Xiaolin , Christie Noah , Hsu Peng‐Hao , Almutairi Adah , Rolandi Marco
Published: January 2019

Bioelectronic devices that modulate pH can affect critical biological processes including enzymatic activity, oxidative phosphorylation, and neuronal excitability. A major challenge in controlling pH is the high buffering capacity of many biological media. To overcome this challenge, devices need to be able to store and deliver a large number of protons on demand. Here, a bioelectronic modulator that controls pH using palladium nanoparticles contacts with high surface area as a proton storage medium is developed. Reversible electronically triggered acidosis (low pH) and alkalosis (high pH) in physiologically relevant buffer conditions are achieved. As a proof of principle, this new platform is used to control the degradation and fluorescence of acid sensitive polymeric microparticles loaded with a pH sensitive fluorescent dye.
Fine Optimization of Morphology Evolution Kinetics with Binary Additives for Efficient Non‐Fullerene Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Jianya , Bi Zhaozhao , Xu Xianbin , Zhang Qianqian , Yang Shengchun , Guo Shengwei , Yan Hongping , You Wei , Ma Wei
Published: January 2019

The power conversion efficiency of polymer solar cells (PSCs) is strongly affected by active layer morphology. Here, two solvent additives (ODT: octance‐1,8‐dithiol; DIO: 1,8‐diiodooctane) are used to optimize the bulk heterojunction morphology of FTAZ:ITIC‐Th based PSCs and ≈11% efficiency is obtained, which is 10% higher than the untreated device. Based on the morphological characterizations, the influence of binary solvent additives on manipulating molecular packing and phase separation of blend films is successfully revealed. More importantly, in situ grazing incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering characterization is adopted to explore the crucial role played by these two solvent additives at different stages of the film‐forming process, that is, ODT influences the initial stage of the film‐forming process, while DIO later establishes the ultimate photoactive film formation. Due to the impacts of two additives at different film processing stages, an optimal ratio of ODT:DIO (0.375%:0.125%) is obtained, which helps in realizing the optimized morphology.
Nucleic Acids as a Nature‐Inspired Scaffold for Macromolecular Prodrugs of Nucleoside Analogues
Authors: Krüger Franziska , Kumar Vipin , Monge Pere , Conzelmann Carina , Smith Nikaïa , Gothelf Kurt V. , Tolstrup Martin , Münch Jan , Zelikin Alexander N.
Published: January 2019

Macromolecular prodrugs (MP) built on the natural phosphodiester and deoxyribose backbone are developed using marketed antiviral nucleoside analogues. These MP are synthesized using automated synthesis, have defined molecular composition, and have a natural mechanism for drug release. These unique attributes, coupled to the efficient cell entry and potent antiviral effects, position the prodrugs scaffolded on nucleic acids favorably for translational studies.
Bottle size matters: Heterogeneity in the German carbonated soft drink market
Authors: Hoffmann Julia , Bronnmann Julia
Published: January 2019

Germany is Europe's largest market for carbonated soft drinks. In 2015, the average per capita consumption of carbonated soft drinks reached 119 L. Furthermore, the market is highly differentiated. This study uses a unique household panel data set of carbonated soft drink consumption in Germany to determine the effect of product and household characteristics on purchase decisions. Characteristics of special interests were product brands, bottle sizes, and households’ brand loyalty. A random parameter logit model is estimated to account explicitly for consumer heterogeneity. The results clearly show that The Coca‐Cola Company is still the market leader on the German market, but private label brands from Aldi and Lidl also have a strong influence. The results further indicate that 63% of households are brand loyal regarding their preferred soft drink brand and prefer small bottle sizes (≤1,500 ml) over large bottle sizes (>1,500 ml).
Schuurs‐Hoeijmakers syndrome in a patient from India
Authors: Dutta Atanu Kumar
Published: January 2019

Schuurs‐Hoeijmakers syndrome (SHMS), or Autosomal Dominant Mental Retardation Syndrome type 17 (MRD17) is a rare form of intellectual disability with distinct facial features. A recurrent de novo heterozygous c.607C>T, p.Arg203Trp mutation in the PACS1 gene accounts for all reported cases except for one patient with a de novo heterozygous c.608G>A, p.Arg203Trp mutation. Ethnic background is known to affect the clinical manifestation of dysmorphic syndromes. Here we describe the first Indian patient with Schuurs‐Hoeijmakers syndrome (SHMS) with a de novo heterozygous NM_018026.3 (PACS1):c.607C>T (p.Arg203Trp) variant. He is the only child with SHMS with a cleft lip. Thus our report expands the phenotypic spectrum of SHMS and establishes its occurrence across populations.
Significant decline of endangered Antipodes Island penguins: Is extreme weather an additional impact?
Authors: Chilvers B. Louise , Hiscock Johanna A.
Published: January 2019

Worldwide, most crested penguin species (Eudyptes spp.) are in decline. New Zealand's subantarctic Antipodes Islands are of international significance for erect‐crested (Eudyptes sclateri) and rockhopper (Eudyptes filholi) penguins.

Between 1995 and 2011, a 23% decline was recorded in the two penguin species on the Antipodes Islands. In October 2014, nest abundance counts on Antipodes Island were undertaken to determine if this decline was continuing, particularly in light of a significant storm event that hit the Antipodes area in January 2014 causing massive landslides during the penguin breeding season.

All penguin colonies ground counted in 2011 were preferentially ground counted in 2014 or, if time or weather did not allow, were checked with binoculars to confirm colony presence or absence.

Seventy‐three per cent of the colonies and the equivalent of 82% of all nests counted in 2011 were recounted in 2014. Overall, there was a 19% decline in erect‐crested penguin nests between 2011 and 2014. Rockhopper penguins showed a slight increase (2.6%).

Landslides affected 11% of the main islands’ land area and 44% of surveyed nesting colonies. Erect‐crested penguin colonies with approximately 75% or greater of their area impacted by landslides showed a significantly greater decline than unaffected or only partially impacted colonies. Landslides showed a minimal effect on rockhopper nest numbers.

There continues to be a significant decline of erect‐crested penguins at the Antipodes Islands. An increasing occurrence of extreme weather events are predicted with climate change and have the potential to increase land‐based flooding and landslides, adding additional impacts to terrestrial breeding marine species. Greater understanding of what is causing erect‐crested penguin decline is needed to prevent this endangered species from extinction.
Phenyl and Diaryl Ureas with Thiazolo[5,4‐d]pyrimidine Scaffold as Angiogenesis Inhibitors: Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Xue Wen‐Jun , Deng Ya‐Hui , Yan Zhong‐Hui , Liu Ji‐Ping , Liu Yu , Sun Li‐Ping
Published: January 2019

Angiogenesis is crucial for tumor growth and inhibition of angiogenesis has been regarded as a promising approach for cancer therapy. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2) is an important factor in angiogenesis. In this work, a novel series of thiazolo[5,4‐d]pyrimidine derivatives inhibiting angiogenesis were rationally designed and synthesized. Their inhibitory activities against human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were investigated in vitro. 1‐(4‐Fluorophenyl)‐3‐{4‐[(5‐methyl‐2‐phenyl[1,3]thiazolo[5,4‐d]pyrimidin‐7‐yl)amino]phenyl}urea (19b) and 1‐(3‐Fluorophenyl)‐3‐{4‐[(5‐methyl‐2‐phenyl[1,3]thiazolo[5,4‐d]pyrimidin‐7‐yl)amino]phenyl}urea (19g) exhibited the most potent inhibitory effect on HUVEC proliferation (IC50=12.8 and 5.3 μm, respectively). Compound 19g could inhibit the migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. These results support the further investigation of these compounds as potent anticancer agents.
Predictors of mortality in patients with non‐anterior ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction: Analysis from the HORIZONS‐AMI trial
Authors: Huang Xin , Redfors Björn , Chen Shmuel , Gersh Bernard J. , Mehran Roxana , Zhang Yiran , McAndrew Thomas , Ben‐Yehuda Ori , Mintz Gary S. , Stone Gregg W.
Published: January 2019

Objectives

We sought to identify clinical, electrocardiographic (ECG), and angiographic characteristics that are predictive of 3‐year mortality after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with non‐anterior ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (NA‐STEMI) from the Harmonizing Outcomes With Revascularization and Stents in Acute Myocardial Infarction (HORIZONS‐AMI) trial.

Background

Which patients with NA‐STEMI undergoing PCI have a poor prognosis is uncertain.

Methods

NA‐STEMI was defined as ST‐segment elevation in lateral (V5, V6, I, aVL), inferior (II, III, aVF), or inferolateral (I, II, III, aVF, and V5‐V6) ECG leads or posterior myocardial infarction with ST‐segment depression of ≥1 mm in ≥2 contiguous anterior leads. Cox regression was used to identify independent predictors of 3‐year mortality. Missing data were imputed using multiple imputation.

Results

In HORIZONS‐AMI, 2,578/3,602 patients had no prior coronary artery bypass grafting, underwent single‐vessel PCI, and had baseline ECG data assessed in an independent core laboratory. Among them, 1,495 (58.0%) had NA‐STEMI. Patients with NA‐STEMI had lower 3‐year mortality risk than those with anterior STEMI (4.5% versus 7.1%, P = 0.004). The independent predictors of increased 3‐year mortality in NA‐STEMI were older age (median > 59.0 years), diabetes, reduced LVEF (≤50%), Killip class ≥2, post‐procedure TIMI flow 0–2 versus 3, renal insufficiency, and ST‐resolution <30% at 60 min post‐PCI. Patients with 0, 1, 2, 3, and ≥4 of these risk factors had 3‐year mortality rates of 1.8%, 2.3%, 3.1%, 6.1%, and 36.3%, respectively (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Although NA‐STEMI carries a better prognosis than anterior STEMI, high‐risk patient cohorts with NA‐STEMI may be identified who have substantial 3‐year mortality.
Graftmaster savior: Injury to a patent LIMA during pericardiectomy, when a covered stent came to the rescue
Authors: Awuor Stephen O. , Ettinger Steven E. , Capecci Louis M. , Pae Walter E.
Published: January 2019

A 71‐year‐old male with multivessel coronary artery disease who underwent bypass with saphenous vein grafts to a Marginal branch and distal RCA and LIMA to LAD in 1988, DM II, atrial fibrillation on Coumadin, TIA, obstructive sleep apnea and pulmonary hypertension was referred to our institution after extensive dyspnea evaluation with a diagnosis of constrictive pericarditis for pericardiectomy. He had normal left ventricular function, moderate mitral and tricuspid regurgitation. Coronary angiography revealed ostial LAD CTO, patent LIMA to mid LAD, second Marginal branch CTO with left‐to‐left collaterals and mid RCA CTO with left‐to‐right collaterals. Vein grafts to the Marginal branch and distal RCA were occluded. The pericardium was heavily calcified on CT of the chest. The LIMA was inadvertently injured leading to acute STEMI and ventricular fibrillation arrest treated with defibrillation once. Surgical repair was unsuccessful. A Graftmaster covered stent was successful deployed with restoration of TIMI III flow to the LAD territory. Pericardiectomy was completed via both the median resternotomy and left thoracotomy. Triple therapy with Aspirin, Clopidogrel, and Coumadin was initiated and maintained for 3 months without hemorrhagic or thrombotic complications. He has continued to do well in follow‐up on Clopidogrel and Coumadin.
Large bore occlusive sheath management
Authors: Kaki Amir , Alraies M. Chadi , Kajy Marvin , Blank Nimrod , Glazier James J. , Mohamad Tamam , Elder Mahir , Schreiber Theodore
Published: January 2019

The field of interventional cardiology has evolved in its ability to carry out complex procedures. Procedures such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), and mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices require large bore access for successful deployment. With the use of large bore‐access, comes with it an increased risk for vascular complications, such as thrombosis and limb ischemia. It is paramount for the interventional cardiologist to know how to manage such complications. In this manuscript, we describe our strategies for the management of occlusive sheaths increasingly encountered with large bore accesses in the upper and lower extremities. Strategies such as peeling away of the introducer sheath and the creation of internal and external bypass circuits are described. By using the described techniques, one can provide prolonged hemodynamic support and maintain large bore sheath access, without jeopardizing perfusion to the extremity.
Exercise‐induced ventricular arrhythmia due to bilateral coronary to pulmonary artery fistulas
Authors: De Roeck Frederic , Franssen Constantijn , De Wolf Daniel , Haine Steven
Published: January 2019

Ischemic polymorphic ventricular ectopy was documented during exercise testing in a 65‐year‐old Caucasian male patient. Coronary angiogram revealed four coronary to pulmonary artery fistulas (CPAFs) originating from the right and left coronary artery, leading to myocardial ischemia due to steal phenomenon. The three dominant fistulas were coiled percutaneously, while one small fistula was left untreated. During follow‐up, no significant residual ventricular arrhythmia was detected.
Management of a chronic radiation necrosis wound with lyopreserved placental membrane containing viable cells
Authors: Regulski Matthew J. , Danilkovitch Alla , Saunders Molly C.
Published: January 2019

Key Clinical Message

This case report describes management of a chronic radiation wound in a patient with multiple comorbidities using a lyopreserved placental membrane containing viable cells (vLPM). Positive outcomes suggest that vLPM provides a good conservative management option for patients with compromised wound healing due to radiation and comorbidities.