bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-healing microcapsules encapsulated with carbon nanotubes for improved thermal and electrical properties
Authors: Naveen V. , Deshpande Abhijit P. , Raja S.
Published: September 2020

Carbon nanotubes incorporated microcapsules based self-heating composites.
Rapid stimulation of cellular Pi uptake by the inositol pyrophosphate InsP8induced by its photothermal release from lipid nanocarriers using a near infra-red light-emitting diode
Authors: Wang Zhenzhen , Jork Nikolaus , Bittner Tamara , Wang Huanchen , Jessen Henning J. , Shears Stephen B.
Published: September 2020

Thermosensitive liposomes were used to deliver inositol pyrophosphates (highly polar, cell-impermeant signaling molecules) into cultured cells; cargo release was induced within 5 min irradiation by a high power, near infra-red, light emitting diode.
Acid–base chemistry at the single ion limit
Authors: Sundaresan Vignesh , Bohn Paul W.
Published: September 2020

Visualizing dynamic change in the number of protons during electroreduction of protons in attoliter volume zero-mode waveguides.
Effects of ligands on the migratory insertion of alkenes into rhodium–oxygen bonds
Authors: Richers Casseday P. , Roediger Sven , Laserna Victor , Hartwig John F.
Published: September 2020

A series of diphosphine-ligated rhodium(i) alkoxo alkene complexes is reported and the migratory insertion of the alkene moiety into the rhodium–oxygen bond in these complexes was studied, revealing the effects of the ligand on the insertion process.
Driven topological transitions in active nematic films
Authors: Rivas David P. , Shendruk Tyler N. , Henry Robert R. , Reich Daniel H. , Leheny Robert L.
Published: September 2020

Magnetically actuated colloidal disks provide local control of the otherwise chaotic dynamics of defects in an active nematic film.
Photoinduced mass transfer of azo polymers from micrometer to submillimeter studied by a real-time single particle strategy
Authors: Huang Hao , Zhang Chen , Lan Jiaxing , Wang Zenan , Wang Xiaogong
Published: September 2020

This article reports a real-time single particle tracking strategy to investigate the photoinduced mass transfer of azo polymers and the results.
High open-circuit voltage roll-to-roll compatible processed organic photovoltaics
Authors: Tintori Francesco , Laventure Audrey , Koenig Josh D. B. , Welch Gregory C.
Published: September 2020

Materials design strategies for high open circuit voltage organic photovoltaics.
Rotation of charged polymer particles for potential applications in micro-propulsion systems
Authors: Do Taegu , Chun Youngsang , Jung Youngkyun , Choi Ung Su , Park Yong-Sung , Ko Young Gun
Published: September 2020

A smart suspension was developed for potential applications in micro-propulsion systems using the interelectrode oscillation of electrically charged particles.
The rotation period distribution of the rich Pleiades-age southern open cluster NGC 2516
Authors: Fritzewski D. J. , Barnes S. A. , James D. J. , Strassmeier K. G.
Published: September 2020

Aims. We wish to measure the cool star rotation period distribution for the Pleiades-age rich open cluster NGC 2516 and use it to determine whether cluster-to-cluster variations exist in otherwise identical open clusters.

Methods. We obtained 42 d-long time-series CCD photometry of NGC 2516 in the V and Ic filters using the Yale 1 m telescope at CTIO and performed a number of related analyses, including PSF-based time-series photometry. Our data are complemented with additional information from several photometric datasets, literature radial velocities, and Gaia DR2 astrometry. All available data are used to construct an integrated membership list for NGC 2516, containing 844 stars in our ≈1° field of view.

Results. We derived 308 rotation periods for late-F to mid-M cluster members from our photometry. We identified an additional 247 periodic M dwarf stars from a prior study as cluster members, and used these to construct a 555-star rotation period distribution for NGC 2516. The colour-period diagram (in multiple colours) has almost no outliers and exhibits the anticipated triangular shape, with a diagonal slow rotator sequence that is preferentially occupied by the warmer stars along with a flat fast rotator sequence that is preferentially populated by the cooler cluster members. We also find a group of extremely slowly rotating M dwarfs (10 d ≲ Prot ≲ 23 d), forming a branch in the colour-period diagram which we call the “extended slow rotator sequence”. This, and other features of the rotational distribution can also be found in the Pleiades, making the colour-period diagrams of the two clusters nearly indistinguishable. A comparison with the well-studied (and similarly aged) open cluster M 35 indicates that the cluster’s rotational distribution is also similarly indistinguishable from that of NGC 2516. Those for the open clusters M 50 and Blanco 1 are similar, but data issues for those clusters make the comparisons somewhat more ambiguous. Nevertheless, we demonstrate the existence of a representative zero-age main sequence rotational distribution and provide a simple colour-independent way to represent it. We perform a detailed comparison of the NGC 2516 rotation period data with a number of recent rotational evolution models. Using X-ray data from the literature, we also construct the first rotation-activity diagram for solar-type stars in NGC 2516, one that we find is essentially indistinguishable from those for the Pleiades and Blanco 1.

Conclusions. The two clusters NGC 2516 and Pleiades can be considered twins in terms of stellar rotation and related properties (and M 35, M 50, and Blanco 1 are similar), suggesting that otherwise identical open clusters also have intrinsically similar cool star rotation and activity distributions.
On the tonehole lattice cutoff frequency of conical resonators: applications to the saxophone
Authors: Petersen Erik , Colinot Tom , Kergomard Jean , Guillemain Philippe
Published: September 2020

The tonehole lattice cutoff frequency is a well-known feature of woodwind instruments. However, most analytic studies of the cutoff have focused on cylindrical instruments due to their relative geometric simplicity. Here, the tonehole lattice cutoff frequency of conical instruments such as the saxophone is studied analytically, using a generalization of the framework developed for cylindrical resonators. First, a definition of local cutoff of a conical tonehole lattice is derived and used to design “acoustically regular” resonators with determinate cutoff frequencies. The study is then expanded to an acoustically irregular lattice: a saxophone resonator, of known input impedance and geometry. Because the lattices of real instruments are acoustically irregular, different methods of analysis are developed. These methods, derived from either acoustic (input impedance) or geometric (tonehole geometry) measurements, are used to determine the tonehole lattice cutoff frequency of conical resonators. Each method provides a slightly different estimation of the tonehole lattice cutoff for each fingering, and the range of cutoffs across the first register is interpreted as the acoustic irregularity of the lattice. It is shown that, in contrast with many other woodwind instruments, the cutoff frequency of a saxophone decreases significantly from the high to low notes of the first register.
Bamboo scraps and hardwood chips biochar derived from a cone-truncated open fire kiln for use as a nutrition medium for agricultural purpose
Authors: Kasantikul Benya , Auttaranakon Ruengsak , Kongkeaw Arun
Published: September 2020

An experiment on the production of biochar from bamboo scraps and hardwood chips for use as materials to improve soil was done by burning the biomass of the bamboo scraps and hardwood chips in Pyrolysis conditions at a temperature range of 500 - 700C with a cone-truncated open fire kiln which reduces burning time to 45-60 min. Experimental results revealed that the average bamboo-scrap biochar of 2.5 kg resulted from burning 15 kg of the bamboo scraps; likewise, the average hardwood-chip biochar of 2.2 kg resulted from burning 15 kg of the hardwood chips. According to analyses, the bamboo-scrap biochar was composed of 8.6% moisture content, 8.0% volatile substance, 9.0% ash, 83% fixed carbon, 250mg/g iodine and pH 10.3; whereas, the hardwood-chip biochar was composed of 6% moisture content, 8.2% volatile substance, 3% ash , 88.8% fixed carbon, 300 mg/g iodine, and pH 10.1. The result of planting experiments showed that after mixing the biochar for soil nourishment and compost into the planting soil, the morning glory and kale can grow better than those planted in normal soil and soil with compost.
The overall precision test for near infrared scanning and reference method for the determination of soluble solids content and pH of mango for processing factory
Authors: Saksangium Nphatsanan , Sirisomboon Panmanas
Published: September 2020

Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is a rapid technique for nondestructive testing. Mango is popular fruit in Thailand. Therefore, The main aim of this paper is to report an overall precision of the NIR spectroscopy instruments and reference methods for determination at the beginning of the experiment for prediction models development to be in the mango applied processing factory.. Results showed that the repeatability of FT-NIR spectrometer and UV-VIS-NIR spectrometer were 0.00191 and 0.00529, respectively. The reproducibility of FT-NIR spectrometer and UV-VIS-NIR spectrometer were 0.00323 and 0.03561, respectively. Repeatability of reference test of TSS and pH were 0.1657 and 0.0827. Therefore, the R2max of TSS and pH were 0.9825 and 0.9504 which indicates that it is possible to develop NIR model for prediction of total soluble solids and pH.
Comparison between SWAT and SWAT+ for simulating streamflow in a paddy-field-dominated basin, northeast Thailand
Authors: Kakarndee Isared , Kositsakulchai Ekasit
Published: September 2020

The performance of the well-known Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and the new SWAT+ for streamflow simulation in a paddy- field-dominated basin was compared. The Lam Sioa River Basin, northeast Thailand (drainage area of 3,394 km2) was selected. The data inputs consisted of DEM, land use, soil, and climate (rainfall, temperature, sunshine hour, wind speed and humidity). The model parameters used the default values from SWAT database and daily simulation was conducted from 2005 to 2017. The division of sub-basins into “landscape units” is one of new features of SWAT+. The total number of HRUs defined from SWAT+ were higher than those from SWAT because the sub-basins derived from SWAT+ contained two landscape units (floodplain and upslope). With the default model parameters, the model performance indicators were found below the satisfactory rating. Both models simulated relatively high streamflow at the beginning of rainy season, while the observed streamflow was still not occurred. In paddy field, rainfall excess become ponding water, not surface runoff. The appropriate representation of paddy field in SWAT model should be further investigated.
Renewable Energy Technologies for Economic Development
Authors: Abdullah Kamaruddin , Saepul Uyun Aep , Soegeng Rahedi , Suherman Eri , Susanto Herry , Hendroko Setyobudi Roy , Burlakovs Juris , Vincēviča-Gaile Zane
Published: September 2020

Indonesian villages are facing dangerous condition. Every year, young people are deserting the villages. To overcome this problem, Tangsi Jaya hamlet, West Java, has been provided with 18 kW micro-hydro to supply electricity both to the community and to Small Processing Center for ground coffee production. Results of cash flow analysis for ground coffee in Tangsi Jaya hamlet, with total investment of IDR 110 750 000 and discount rate of 18 % for 5 yr. Banyumeneng I hamlet, Yogyakarta with an investment cost IDR 95 000 000 and production cost of IDR 34 195 000 yr–1and the interest rate of 14 % yr–1, the payback period was estimated to be 3 yr with ROI of 40 %. PEST analysics indicate that the higher electricity tariff and interest rate while the higher the value of technology and number of people involve with the SPC will result in the bigger value of ROI. Renewable energy technology could be used for value added activities in rural areas, create small industries, provide job opportunities to the local people and create conditions for sustainable economic development. However, vigilance is needed because small industries can also cause pollution because they produce waste
Tire Pressure and the Availability of Gasoline Monitoring Tools Based on IOT
Authors: Daviend Benaya Nugroho Tandya , Gunadhi Albert , Raguindin Evelyn , Pranjoto Hartono
Published: September 2020

This final project discusses the design and manufacture of tire pressure and the availability of gasoline monitoring tools based on internet of things (IOT). Tire pressure monitoring tools are made because many of the motorcycle driver don’t have a time to check tire pressure, and often experience a reduction in pressure to leak on the highway. While the gasoline monitoring tool is made so that driver can see the contents of the available motorcycle tank volume, and estimate the price paid when filling in the gas. Conventional methods of estimating gasoline prices often cause failure to refuel at gas stations, and make motorists complain about improper prices. Basically this tool works by means of a gasoline indicator and is connected to the ADC port of the NodeMCU microcontroller. As for tire pressure, the measurement is done by using a pressure sensor and additional ADC, because the microcontroller only has one ADC port. Both of these tools work in the second way the microcontroller receives input data from the gasoline ADC indicator, and there is data processing in the microcontroller to connect the monitoring system via the internet.
Effect of welding speed on microstructure and mechanical properties of titanium alloy/stainless steel lap joints during cold metal transfer method
Authors: Li Gang , Xu Shengyu , Lu Xiaofeng , Zhu Xiaolei , Guo Yupeng , Song Jufeng
Published: September 2020

Cold metal transfer (CMT) technique is developed for lap joining of titanium (Ti) alloy to stainless steel (SS) with CuSi3 filler wire. The effect of welding speed on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti/SS lap joints is investigated. The results indicate that the wetting angle of the lap joints gradually increases and the weld width decreases with increasing the welding speed. It is found that many coarse phases in the fusion zone are rich in Ti, Fe and Si etc, inferring as Fe–Si–Ti ternary phase and/or Fe2Ti phase at low welding speed. Many fine spherical particles in the fusion zone are considered as iron-rich particles at high welding speed. The transition layer are exhibited at the Ti–Cu interface. With increasing the heat input, the intermetallic layer becomes thicker. A variety of brittle intermetallic compounds (IMCs) are identified in the lap joints. The shear strength of the joints increases with increasing the welding speed. Two fracture modes occur in the lap joints at low welding speed. Thicker reaction layer causes brittle fracture and poor joint strength. The Fe–Ti–Si and Fe2Ti phase within the fusion zone are detrimental to the joint strength. The fracture surface of the joints is dominated by smooth surface and tear pattern at high welding speed. The fracture mode of the joints is merely along the Ti–Cu interface.
Influence of Fe-rich particles on microstructure evolution, texture and mechanical properties of Al–Mg–Si–Cu alloys
Authors: Yu Libo , Chen Lin , Wang Hebin , Wang Xiaofeng , Peng Wenfei , Wang Yonggang , Zhuang Linzhong
Published: September 2020

The influence of Fe-rich particles on the microstructure evolution, texture and mechanical properties of Al–Mg–Si–Cu alloys was investigated by means of microstructure, texture and mechanical property analysis in the present study. The results show that Fe-rich particles have a significant influence on the microstructure evolution, texture, and final mechanical properties. Although both alloy sheets with different numbers of Fe-rich particles possess the similar microstructure including grain structure and fine particle distribution before solution treatment, the alloy sheet with a large number of Fe-rich particles possesses finer equiaxed grain structure in comparison with the alloy sheet with a medium number of Fe-rich particles after solution treatment. The solution treated alloy sheet with a medium number of Fe-rich particles is mainly comprised of CubeND {001}<310> orientation, while the solution treated alloy sheet with a large number of Fe-rich particles possesses weaker texture consisting of CubeND and Goss {110}<001> orientations. Fe-rich particles are beneficial to improve yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and r value, whereas reduce n and Δr values. Finally, the effect of Fe-rich particles on recrystallization microstructure and texture was analyzed.
Estimating the electric field response to the Halloween 2003 and September 2017 magnetic storms across Scotland using observed geomagnetic fields, magnetotelluric impedances and perturbation tensors
Authors: Simpson Fiona , Bahr Karsten
Published: September 2020

Geomagnetic storms generate heightened magnetovariational activity, which induces electric fields that drive hazardous currents known as geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) through man-made technological conductors including power transmission lines, railway networks and gas pipelines. We multiply magnetotelluric (MT) impedances from 23 sites in Scotland and northern England with measured geomagnetic field spectra from the Halloween 2003 and September 2017 storms to estimate maximum peak-to-peak, electric field magnitudes and directions for these storms, which we present as hazard maps. By sampling these electric fields in the direction of the longest (>50 km), high-voltage (275 and 400 kV) Scottish power transmission lines and integrating along their lengths, we estimate their associated transmission-line voltages. Lateral electrical conductivity variations in the Earth generate horizontal magnetic field gradients. We investigate the effect of these gradients on electric field estimates obtained using remote magnetic fields by applying a correction to the impedance tensor derived from the magnetic perturbation tensor between the local MT site and the remote magnetic field site. For the September 2017 storm, we also compare our estimated electric fields with a unique dataset comprising measured storm-time electric fields from 7 MT sites. We find that peak-to-peak, electric field magnitudes may have reached 13 V/km during the Halloween storm in some areas of the Scottish Highlands, with line-averaged electric fields >5 V/km sustained along a number of long-distance, high-voltage power transmission lines; line-averaged electric fields for the September 2017 storm are 1 V/km or less. Our surface electric fields show significant site-to-site variability that arises due to Earth’s internal 3D electrical conductivity structure, as characterised by the MT impedance tensors.
Endoscopic Endonasal Resection of C1–C2 Pannus, a Step-by-Step Surgical and Anatomical Description: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Elhammady Mohamed Samy , Al-Bar Mohammad , Roser Florian
Published: September 2020

Expanded endonasal endoscopic approaches provide access to the entire central skull base and craiocervical junction. The authors present a case of an 81-year-old man who presented with progressive spastic quadriparesis to the point of being wheel-chair bound. Cervical spine computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated multilevel extensive spondylitic changes with a large pannus at the C1–2 junction, severely compressing the spinal cord (Figs. 1 and 2). Given the significant anterior spinal cord compression and the patient's substantial weakness, the decision was made to perform an endoscopic endonasal anterior cervical decompression and resection of the pannus followed a posterior cervical fusion. The patient recovered well following surgery with significant improvement of motor function. The preoperative assessment, the step-by-step surgical technique, and the technical nuances are demonstrated and discussed.

The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/HzrZO-0Vol4.
Electrophysiological and Behavioral Evaluation of Auditory Processing in Adults with Dysphonia
Authors: Bez Ana Cláudia Mondini Ribeiro , Luiz Cyntia Barbosa Laureano , Paes Sabrina Mazzer , Azevedo Renata Rangel , Gil Daniela
Published: September 2020

Introduction Dysphonia is an oral communication disorder. The voice and hearing are interrelated aspects. Hearing is an important sensory input for monitoring the vocal pattern. The relation between hearing abilities and dysphonia represents a contribution both in scientific and in clinical terms, especially in cases in which satisfactory results are not achieved in the therapeutic process.

Objective To characterize long-latency auditory evoked potential (P300) with tonal and complex stimuli, and to make a behavioral evaluation of auditory processing in adults with behavioral dysphonia.

Method The sample used for the present study consisted of 20 subjects from both genders with ages ranging from 18 and 58, who were diagnosed with behavioral dysphonia. The evaluations occurred in a single 2-hour session, in which the procedures of clinical history, pure tone and speech audiometries, acoustic immittance measures, and behavioral and electrophysiological evaluations of auditory processing were performed.

Results The descriptive measures of P3 latency elicited by tonal and complex stimuli showed similar results for the right and left ears, without statistically significant differences. In the qualitative analysis, the results observed were within the normality patterns for the P3 component for both tonal and complex stimuli. As for the behavioral evaluation of auditory processing, abnormal results were observed in 100% of the sample. Abnormalities were found in the auditory skills of ordering and temporal resolution and figure-background obtained from the duration pattern, random gap detection, and dichotic tests (syllables and words), respectively.

Conclusion The evaluated patients presented central auditory processing disorder, evidenced by behavioral assessment.
Improving the Management of High-Risk Pregnancies with the Use of the Robson Classification
Authors: Correa Junior Mario Dias , Santos Bárbara Moreira Ribeiro Trindade dos , Roveda José Reinaldo Correa , Silva Laura Carolina Menezes Vieira , Guimarães Larissa Silva , Gonçalves Samuel Cristóvão Lopes
Published: September 2020

Objective To analyze the rates of cesarean delivery longitudinally in a university hospital using the Robson classification.

Methods Data related to births performed between 2014 and 2018 and recorded in the Maternal and Neonatal Health Information System (Sistema de Informações em Saúde Materna e Neonatal, SISMATER, in Portuguese) were analyzed using the Robson classification. As an aid, we used articles published in the last five years that approach the same topic in other Brazilian maternity hospitals; they were retrieved from the LILACS, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases.

Results There was little variation in the total rate of cesarean sections in the period; however, the profile of each group changed over the years. It was possible to verify a significant reduction in the participation of groups of pregnant women with lower risk and an increase in high-risk pregnancies, attributable to the decrease in beds in the institution, with a greater transfer of patients. In addition, there was a reduction in cesarean sections among the lower-risk groups, while the rate among the higher-risk groups remained stable.

Conclusion The use of the Robson classification to stratify cesarean deliveries contributes to a better analysis of the indications for cesarean delivery, enabling the establishment of strategies to reduce the rates, generating a positive impact on hospital management and quality of care.
Analysis of Body Composition and Pain Intensity in Women with Chronic Pelvic Pain Secondary to Endometriosis
Authors: Silva Joyce Beatriz da , Gurian Maria Beatriz Ferreira , Nonino Carla Barbosa , Poli-Neto Omero Benedito , Nogueira Antonio Alberto , Reis Francisco José Candido dos , Silva Júlio Rosa-e-Silva
Published: September 2020

Objective To determine the average body composition (percentage of body fat), the anthropometric markers, and the intensity of clinical pain in women with a clinical diagnosis of chronic pelvic pain (CPP) secondary to endometriosis.

Methods A case-control study performed with 91 women, 46 of whom with CPP secondary to endometriosis and 45 of whom with CPP secondary to other causes. They underwent an evaluation of the anthropometric parameters by means of the body mass index (BMI), the perimeters (waist, abdomen, hip), and the percentage of body fat (%BF), which were assessed on a body composition monitor by bioimpedance; the intensity of the clinical pain was evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS), and the symptoms of anxiety and depression, using the hospital's anxiety and depression scale (HAD).

Results The groups did not differ in terms of mean age, BMI, %BF or regarding the available waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). The mean intensity of the clinical pain by the VAS was of 7.2 ± 2.06 in the group with CPP secondary to endometriosis, and of 5.93 ± 2.64 in the group with CPP secondary to other causes (p = 0.03), revealing significant differences between the groups.

Conclusion We concluded that, despite the difference in the pain score assessed between the two groups, there was no difference regarding body composition and anthropometry.
The Canadian Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Collaborative Mobile App: A National Guideline Implementation Strategy
Authors: LaRusso Kathryn , Puligandla Pramod S. , Anna Guilherme Sant'
Published: September 2020

Objective Coinciding with the publication of the Canadian congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) Collaborative's clinical practice guidelines (CPG), we developed a mobile smartphone app to increase guideline utilization and promote knowledge translation.

Study Design This mobile app was organized into sections corresponding to the phases of CDH care (prenatal, perinatal/postnatal, and child/adolescent), and contained 22 recommendations supported by evidence summaries, PubMed links, levels of evidence, and strength of expert consensus. Download statistics were collected from September 2018 to June 2020 after release of two iOS versions and an Android platform. Data regarding user numbers/location, most visited sections, and individual session details were analyzed.

Results During the study period, the CDH app had 1,586 users predominantly from Canada (40%), United States (30%), and Brazil (12%). The Android release increased app visibility, particularly in Brazil, which had the largest number of new users. Of 3,723 sessions, roughly one-third were returning users. The average session duration and screens viewed/session was 4 minutes and seven screens, respectively. Postnatal ventilation was the most frequently visited subsection after prenatal diagnosis/risk stratification. Measurement of observed-to-expected lung head ratio was the most visited individual recommendation. The guideline compliance checklist was the most frequently accessed resource highlighting its utility.

Conclusion The CDH app is an innovative platform to disseminate guidelines. The increasing global reach of the app suggests worldwide CPG relevance. With additional features planned, the CDH app will continue to support clinical decision-making and empower patients and families as they navigate the short and long-term challenges associated with CDH.

Key Points
Psychometric Assessment of Morbid Fear of COVID-19 and Its Homoeopathic Management—A Treatment Perspective through Case Reports
Authors: Ponnam Hima Bindu
Published: September 2020

Fear of an infection is posing a major threat in the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis. Although nothing novel but still when we see historically over the times, fear of infection in any pandemic crisis remains the same even after the advent of modern medical advancements. This morbid fear of risk of infection has more traumatic effect psychologically than reality of succumbing to an infection and its recovery. Nevertheless, the cause of the fear and its management is very important in this COVID-19 crisis situation. Homoeopathy system of medicine offers a safe, palatable, economical and an eco-friendly management solution to tackle this morbid fear. Homoeopathy is being used by the public since a very long time and people continue to experience its overall health benefits with utmost trust and diligence. Two cases of morbid fear of COVID-19 infection treated homoeopathically with positive outcome are presented here.
Real-Time Safety Audits of Neonatal Delivery Room Resuscitation Areas: Are We Sufficiently Prepared?
Authors: Ortiz-Movilla Roberto , Funes-Moñux Rosa M. , Domingo-Comeche Laura , Martínez-Bernat Lucía , Beato-Merino Maite , Royuela-Vicente Ana , Román-Riechmann Enriqueta , Marín-Gabriel Miguel Á.
Published: September 2020

Objective This study aimed to use real-time safety audits to establish whether preparation of the equipment required for the stabilization and resuscitation of newborns in the delivery room areas is adequate.

Study Design This was a descriptive, multicenter study performed at five-level III-A neonatal units in Madrid, Spain. For 1 year, one researcher from each center performed random real-time safety audits (RRTSAs), on different days and during different shifts, of at least three neonatal stabilization areas, either in the delivery room or in the operating room used for caesarean sections. Three factors in each area were reviewed: the set-up of the radiant warmer, the materials, and medication available. The global audit was considered without defect when no errors were detected in any of the audited factors. Possible differences in the results were analyzed as a function of the study month, day of the week, or shift during which the audit had been performed.

Results A total of 852 audits were performed. No defects were detected in any of the three factors analyzed in the 534 (62.7%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 59.3–65.9) cases. Slight defects were detected in 98 (11.5%, 95% CI: 9.4–13.8) cases and serious defects capable of producing adverse events in the newborn during resuscitation were found in 220 (25.8%, 95% CI: 22.9–28.9) cases. No statistically significant differences in the results were found according to the day of the week or time during which the audits were performed. However, the percentage of RRTSAs without defect increased as the study period progressed (first quarter 38.1% vs. the last quarter 84.2%; p < 0.001).

Conclusion The percentage of adequately prepared resuscitation areas was low. RRTSAs made it possible to detect errors in the correct availability of the neonatal stabilization areas and improved their preparation by preventing errors from being perpetuated over time.

Key Points
Fat-Augmented Latissimus Dorsi versus Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap: Comparative Study in Delayed Autologous Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Demiri Efterpi C. , Tsimponis Antonios , Pagkalos Anastasios , Georgiadou Eleni , Goula Olga-Christina , Spyropoulou Georgia-Alexandra , Dionyssiou Dimitrios
Published: September 2020

Background The use of autologous tissues is considered the mainstay for delayed breast reconstruction. Aside the free abdominal flaps, which are most commonly used, the fat-augmented latissimus-dorsi (FALD) flap has been recently shown a reliable alternative option for pure autologous breast reconstruction. In this retrospective study, we aim to compare outcomes of autologous breast reconstructions using the extended FALD and deep inferior epigastric perforator flap (DIEP) flap, with an emphasis on patients' characteristics, demographic data, complications, and patients' satisfaction after a minimum 12-month follow-up.

Methods Our series consists of 135 women who underwent a delayed postmastectomy unilateral autologous breast reconstruction from 2011 to 2017: 36 patients (Group A) had an extended FALD flap and 99 (Group B) a free DIEP flap performed by the same surgeons. Demographic data, breast volume, medical history, smoking, complications, and patients' satisfaction were recorded and analyzed. Student's t-test for independent variables, Mann–Whitney U-test, and Chi-squared test were used to compare the reported variables.

Results Patients' age, body mass index (BMI), and pregnancy history were statistically different between groups (p < 0.001, p = 0.004, p < 0.001, respectively); younger age (35.1 vs. 41.2 years), lower BMI (25.6 vs. 28.4), and fewer pregnancies were recorded in Group A. Breast volume was also found significantly smaller in Group A patients (p = 0.009). Past medical history using the ASA physical status classification score, previous radiation therapy, history of smoking, and incidence of overall complications were similar in both groups. Overall satisfaction scores were found slightly higher, but not statistically significant, in the free-flap group (p = 0.442).

Conclusion The use of the FALD flap may provide comparable outcome to the DIEP flap in delayed breast reconstruction in terms of complications and patients' satisfaction; it should be considered a good reconstructive option for young and thin nulliparous patients, with small to medium size opposite breast.
Scalp and Skull Reconstruction in Patients Irradiated for Tinea Capitis in Childhood: The Scalp Exchange Procedure
Authors: Fliss Ehud , Zaretski Arik , Maoz-Halevy Eyal D. , Gur Eyal , Yanko Ravit
Published: September 2020

Background Approximately 70,000 Israelis underwent scalp irradiation for tinea capitis infection during their childhood, as did many other children worldwide. Long-term follow-up data showed that these children had an increased risk of aggressive and multiple nonmelanoma skin cancers, meningiomas, and other malignancies. Resection of these lesions creates a defect of soft tissue, bone, and dura, and requires scalp and skull reconstruction with local or free flaps in the irradiated field.

Methods Sixteen patients with a history of childhood scalp irradiation underwent scalp and skull reconstruction in our department (2000–2018). Data on demographics, oncological status, operative details, and postoperative outcome were retrospectively collected and analyzed.

Results The study group included 11 males and 5 females (average age at surgery, 70 years). The most common lesions were meningiomas (n = 9) and basal cell carcinomas (n = 8), and the most common indication for reconstruction was chronic exposure of deep structures (skull, dura, brain tissue, and titanium mesh; n = 9). Thirteen patients underwent primary free flap reconstruction and three underwent primary local flap reconstruction. Flap failure requiring reoperation occurred in one patient of the free flap reconstruction group (7%) and in all three patients of the local flap reconstruction group.

Conclusion Long-term consequences of childhood depilatory treatments of the scalp by irradiation are now surfacing. Our experience showed that in such cases, surgeons should aim for a more aggressive approach with wide resection and primary free flap reconstruction, and that favorable long-term functional and aesthetic results can safely be achieved using this reconstruction approach.
Association between Respiratory Morbidity and Labor in Pregnancies with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Yu Hope Y. , Has Phinnara , Clark Melissa A. , Esposito Matthew , Rouse Dwight J. , Werner Erika F.
Published: September 2020

Objective This study aimed to the assess risk of respiratory morbidity in neonates born to women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) delivered after labor compared with those delivered without exposure to labor.

Study Design This is a secondary analysis of a prospective single-center cohort study of singleton pregnancies complicated by GDM. Neonates who were liveborn and delivered at ≥34 weeks' gestation were included. The primary outcome was respiratory morbidity defined as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) or transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) resulting in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission. Neonates born after labor (either spontaneous or induced) were compared with those delivered by cesarean delivery without labor. Associations between labor and neonatal morbidities were estimated using logistic regression. Covariates were adjusted for if they differed significantly between neonates exposed to and not exposed to labor (p < 0.05) and there was biologic plausibility that they would affect neonatal respiratory morbidity.

Results Of the 581 neonates meeting study inclusion criteria, 23.2% delivered without exposure to labor. Those who did and did not experience labor delivered at similar gestational ages (38.6 vs. 38.4 weeks). Thirty-six neonates (6.2%) developed RDS or TTN and were admitted to the NICU. Exposure to labor was associated with a lower frequency of respiratory morbidity requiring admission to NICU, 4.9% (22/446) versus 10.4% (14/135) (p = 0.04). After adjusting for parity, body mass index, birth weight, gestational weight gain more than Institute of Medicine guidelines, race, and exposure to labor were associated with an adjusted odds ratio of 0.41 (95% confidence interval: 0.18–0.89).

Conclusion Exposure to labor was associated with decreased odds of respiratory morbidity in neonates born to mothers with GDM. Limiting elective cesarean in this population can reduce health care costs and optimize neonatal health.

Key Points
Clinical Analysis of Neonates Born to Mothers with or without COVID-19: A Retrospective Analysis of 48 Cases from Two Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Hubei Province
Authors: Liu Wei , Cheng Hongbin , Wang Jing , Ding Lingli , Zhou Zhaoxian , Liu Siying , Chang Liwen , Rong Zhihui
Published: September 2020

Objective The perinatal consequences of neonates born to severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infected mothers are uncertain. This study aimed to compare the differences in clinical manifestation, laboratory results, and outcomes of neonates born to mothers with or without coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Study Design A total of 48 neonates were admitted to Tongji Hospital and HuangShi Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital from January 17 to March 4, 2020. The neonates were divided into three groups according to the mothers' conditions: neonates born to mothers with confirmed COVID-19, neonates born to mothers with clinically diagnosed COVID-19, and neonates born to mothers without COVID-19. The clinical data of mothers and infants in the three groups were collected, compared, and analyzed.

Results The deliveries occurred in a negative pressure isolation room, and the neonates were separated from their mothers immediately after birth for further observation and treatment. None of the neonates showed any signs of fever, cough, dyspnea, or diarrhea. SARS-CoV-2 reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction of the throat swab and feces samples from the neonates in all three groups was negative. No differences were detected in the whole blood cell, lymphocytes, platelet, and liver and renal function among the three groups. All mothers and their infants showed satisfactory outcomes, including a 28-week preterm infant.

Conclusion The clinical manifestations, radiological, and biochemical results did not show any difference between the three groups. No evidence of vertical transmission was found in this study whether the pregnant women developed coronavirus infection in the third (14 cases) or second trimester (1 case).

Key points
Transient magnetic gratings on the nanometer scale
Authors: Weder D. , von Korff Schmising C. , Günther C. M. , Schneider M. , Engel D. , Hessing P. , Strüber C. , Weigand M. , Vodungbo B. , Jal E. , Liu X. , Merhe A. , Pedersoli E. , Capotondi F. , Lüning J. , Pfau B. , Eisebitt S.
Published: September 2020

Laser-driven non-local electron dynamics in ultrathin magnetic samples on a sub-10 nm length scale is a key process in ultrafast magnetism. However, the experimental access has been challenging due to the nanoscopic and femtosecond nature of such transport processes. Here, we present a scattering-based experiment relying on a laser-induced electro- and magneto-optical grating in a Co/Pd ferromagnetic multilayer as a new technique to investigate non-local magnetization dynamics on nanometer length and femtosecond timescales. We induce a spatially modulated excitation pattern using tailored Al near-field masks with varying periodicities on a nanometer length scale and measure the first four diffraction orders in an x-ray scattering experiment with magnetic circular dichroism contrast at the free-electron laser facility FERMI, Trieste. The design of the periodic excitation mask leads to a strongly enhanced and characteristic transient scattering response allowing for sub-wavelength in-plane sensitivity for magnetic structures. In conjunction with scattering simulations, the experiment allows us to infer that a potential ultrafast lateral expansion of the initially excited regions of the magnetic film mediated by hot-electron transport and spin transport remains confined to below three nanometers.
Role of intracellular water in the normal-to-cancer transition in human cells—insights from quasi-elastic neutron scattering
Authors: Marques M. P. M. , Batista de Carvalho A. L. M. , Mamede A. P. , Dopplapudi A. , García Sakai V. , Batista de Carvalho L. A. E.
Published: September 2020

The transition from normal to malignant state in human cells is still a poorly understood process. Changes in the dynamical activity of intracellular water between healthy and cancerous human cells were probed as an innovative approach for unveiling particular features of malignancy and identifying specific reporters of cancer. Androgen-unresponsive prostate and triple-negative breast carcinomas were studied as well as osteosarcoma, using the technique of quasi-elastic neutron scattering. The cancerous cells showed a considerably higher plasticity relative to their healthy counterparts, this being more significant for the mammary adenocarcinoma. Also, the data evidence that the prostate cancer cells display the highest plasticity when compared to triple-negative mammary cancer and osteosarcoma, the latter being remarkably less flexible. Furthermore, the results suggest differences between the flexibility of different types of intracellular water molecules in normal and cancerous cells, as well as the number of molecules involved in the different modes of motion. The dynamics of hydration water molecules remain virtually unaffected when going from healthy to cancer cells, while cytoplasmic water (particularly the rotational motions) undergoes significant changes upon normal-to-cancer transition. The results obtained along this study can potentially help to understand the variations in cellular dynamics underlying carcinogenesis and tumor metastasis, with an emphasis on intracellular water.
Development and initial applications of an e-ReaxFF description of Ag nanoclusters
Authors: Evangelisti Benjamin , Fichthorn Kristen A. , van Duin Adri C. T.
Published: September 2020

Metal nanocrystals are of considerable scientific interest because of their uses in electronics, catalysis, and spectroscopy, but the mechanisms by which nanocrystals nucleate and grow to achieve selective shapes are poorly understood. Ab initio calculations and experiments have consistently shown that the lowest energy isomers for small silver nanoparticles exhibit two-dimensional (2D) configurations and that a transition into three-dimensional (3D) configurations occurs with the addition of only a few atoms. We parameterized an e-ReaxFF potential for Ag nanoclusters (N ≤ 20 atoms) that accurately reproduces the 2D–3D transition observed between the Ag5 and Ag7 clusters. This potential includes a four-body dihedral term that imposes an energetic penalty to 3D structures that is significant for small clusters but is overpowered by the bond energy from out-of-plane Ag–Ag bonds in larger 3D clusters. The potential was fit to data taken from density-functional theory and coupled-cluster calculations and compared to an embedded atom method potential to gauge its quality. We also demonstrate the potential of e-ReaxFF to model redox reactions in silver halides and plasmon motion using molecular dynamics simulations. This is the first case in which e-ReaxFF is used to describe metals. Furthermore, the inclusion of a bond-order dependent dihedral angle in this force field is a unique solution to modeling the 2D–3D transition seen in small metal nanoclusters.
All-optical orientation of linear molecules with combined linearly and elliptically polarized two-color laser fields
Authors: Hossain Md. Maruf , Sakai Hirofumi
Published: September 2020

We show that a combination of a fundamental pulse with linear polarization along the vertical direction and an elliptically polarized second harmonic pulse with both vertical and horizontal electric field components can be used to orient linear molecules efficiently, leading to higher degrees of orientation. Due to this specific combination of polarizations, the asymmetric hyperpolarizability interaction potential, which remains the same as that in a linearly polarized two-color laser field, is created along the vertical component of the elliptically polarized second harmonic pulse. On the other hand, the horizontal component suppresses the otherwise strong symmetric polarizability potential responsible for alignment, increasing the tunneling probability from the shallower potential well to the deeper one. As a result, the degree of orientation increases and can be controlled by changing the intensity of the horizontal component of the elliptically polarized second harmonic pulse. This study is the generalization of the all-optical molecular orientation technique based on the anisotropic hyperpolarizability interaction.