bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of the ternary heterojunction Cd0.5Zn0.5S@UIO-66@g-C3N4 for enhanced visible-light photocatalytic hydrogen evolution and degradation of organic pollutants
Authors: Liang Qian , Jin Jie , Liu Changhai , Xu Song , Yao Chao , Li Zhongyu
Published: November 2017

This article reports a novel ternary heterojunction Cd0.5Zn0.5S@UIO-66@g-C3N4 that exhibits enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen production and MO degradation.
Aggregation-responsive ON–OFF–ON fluorescence-switching behaviour of twisted tetrakis(benzo[b]furyl)ethene made by hafnium-mediated McMurry coupling
Authors: Hamada Hiroyoshi , Tsuji Hayato , Nakamura Eiichi
Published: November 2017

A new type of molecule tetrakis(benzo[b]furyl)ethene (TBFE) undergoes two-wavelength ON–OFF–ON three-stage fluorescence switching triggered by aggregation.
Hole-transporting materials based on thiophene-fused arenes from sulfur-mediated thienannulations
Authors: Lin Hsing-An , Mitoma Nobuhiko , Meng Lingkui , Segawa Yasutomo , Wakamiya Atsushi , Itami Kenichiro
Published: November 2017

Thiophene-fused arenes were synthesized by sulfur-mediated simple thienannulation reactions and applied to hole-transporting materials in perovskite solar cells.
Water-induced self-assembly of an amphiphilic perylene bisimide dyad into vesicles, fibers, coils, and rings
Authors: Ogasawara Mutsumi , Lin Xu , Kurata Hiroki , Ouchi Hayato , Yamauchi Mitsuaki , Ohba Tomonori , Kajitani Takashi , Fukushima Takanori , Numata Munenori , Nogami Rie , Adhikari Bimalendu , Yagai Shiki
Published: November 2017

Bestowing amphiphilicity to specifically designed perylene bisimide dyads enables diverse self-assembly pathways in aqueous media.
Pd-Catalyzed intramolecular C–H addition to the cyano-group: construction of functionalized 2,3-fused thiophene scaffolds
Authors: Zhao Lang , Liao Wei-Wei
Published: November 2017

An efficient synthesis of 2,3-fused thiophenes was demonstrated through a Pd-catalyzed intramolecular C–H addition of thiophenes bearing cyanohydrin components to nitriles.
Surficial nanoporous carbon with high pyridinic/pyrrolic N-Doping from sp3/sp2-N-rich azaacene dye for lithium storage
Authors: Zhao Jianfeng , Chen Kai , Yang Bing , Zhang Yanni , Zhu Caixia , Li Yinxiang , Zhang Qichun , Xie Linghai , Huang Wei
Published: November 2017

Dye to carbon: Two rationally designed pyridinic/pyrrolic N-doped porous carbons as anodic materials could be achieved by carbonizing π-conjugated azaacene dye born with high ratio sp3/sp2-N.
Electrospun nanofibrils embedded hydrogel composites for cell cultivation in a biomimetic environment
Authors: Lee Sol , Kim Hye Sung , Yoo Hyuk Sang
Published: November 2017

(A) Schematic morphology of cells in hydrogel with and without NF. (B) Confocal laser scanning microscopic images of cells in hydrogels with and without NF.
A stable, efficient textile-based flexible perovskite solar cell with improved washable and deployable capabilities for wearable device applications
Authors: Lam Jeun-Yan , Chen Jung-Yao , Tsai Ping-Chun , Hsieh Yun-Ting , Chueh Chu-Chen , Tung Shih-Huang , Chen Wen-Chang
Published: November 2017

An efficient textile-based flexible perovskite solar cell with improved washable and deployable capabilities was demonstrated for wearable device applications.
In vitroandin vivocharacterization of strontium-containing calcium sulfate/poly(amino acid) composite as a novel bioactive graft for bone regeneration
Authors: Jun Wu , Peng Wang , Dianming Jiang , Hong Li , Cong Luo , Xing Liu , Xiangyang Qu , Yujiang Cao , Ming Li
Published: November 2017

Doped strontium enhanced the biological activity of CS/PAA composites for repairing large bone defects.
Biochemical, thermodynamic and structural studies of recombinant homotetrameric adenylosuccinate lyase fromLeishmania braziliensis
Authors: Galina Luiza , Dalberto Pedro Ferrari , Borges Martinelli Leonardo Kras , Roth Candida Deves , Michel Pinto Antonio Frederico , Villela Anne Drumond , Bizarro Cristiano Valim , Machado Pablo , Saraiva Macedo Timmers Luis Fernando , Norberto de Souza Osmar , Marcelino de Carvalho Filho Edgar , Basso Luiz Augusto , Santos Diogenes Santiago
Published: November 2017

Functional and structural data suggested that His197and Ser322residues play a role inLbASL catalysis.
Exploring the effects of four important factors on oil–CO2 interfacial properties and miscibility in nanopores
Authors: Zhang Kaiqiang , Jia Na , Li Songyan
Published: November 2017

In this paper, effects of temperature, initial oil and injection gas compositions, and feed gas–oil ratio on oil–CO2 interfacial tensions, interfacial thicknesses, and minimum miscibility pressures (MMPs) in nanopores are specifically studied.
Insight into mechanisms of fluoride removal from contaminated groundwater using lanthanum-modified bone waste
Authors: Wang Lanting , Xie Yanhua , Yang Jinglong , Zhu Xueqian , Hu Qili , Li Xiaoyun , Liu Zhuang
Published: November 2017

The current worldwide issue of fluoride contamination in groundwater has resulted in an increased demand for efficient adsorbents.
Brønsted acidic ionic liquid-promoted direct C3-acylation of N-unsubstituted indoles with acid anhydrides under microwave irradiation
Authors: Tran Phuong Hoang , Duy Nguyen Anh-Thanh , Nguyen Hai Truong , Le Thach Ngoc
Published: November 2017

A green and efficient method for the synthesis of 3-acylindoles using a Brønsted acidic ionic liquid under microwave irradiation has been developed.
Effect of carbon nanotubes on morphology evolution of polypropylene/polystyrene blends: understanding molecular interactions and carbon nanotube migration mechanisms
Authors: Navas Ivonne Otero , Arjmand Mohammad , Sundararaj Uttandaraman
Published: November 2017

MWCNT migration among domains in conjunction with viscosity and elastic effects are important factors governing the morphological changes in the PP:PS blend nanocomposites.
Nitric oxide activatable photosensitizer accompanying extremely elevated two-photon absorption for efficient fluorescence imaging and photodynamic therapy
Authors: Hu Wenbo , Xie Meng , Zhao Hui , Tang Yufu , Yao Song , He Tingchao , Ye Chuanxiang , Wang Qi , Lu Xiaomei , Huang Wei , Fan Quli
Published: November 2017

A nitric oxide (NO) activatable photosensitizer was constructed for efficient fluorescence imaging and photodynamic therapy.
Solar H2 generation in water with a CuCrO2 photocathode modified with an organic dye and molecular Ni catalyst
Authors: Creissen Charles E. , Warnan Julien , Reisner Erwin
Published: November 2017

H2 generation using a Ni catalyst on dye-sensitised CuCrO2 highlights the benefits of using delafossite semiconductors for solar fuel production.
Stereoselective construction of sterically hindered oxaspirocycles via chiral bidentate directing group-mediated C(sp3)–O bond formation
Authors: Kim Yechan , Kim Seoung-Tae , Kang Dahye , Sohn Te-ik , Jang Eunyoung , Baik Mu-Hyun , Hong Sungwoo
Published: November 2017

A new, bidentate, chiral directing group derived from 2,2-dimethyl-1-(pyridin-2-yl)propan-1-amine was discovered, which enables stereoselective palladium(ii)-catalyzed intramolecular C(sp3)–O bond formation.
Unfolding of a comb-like polymer in a poor solvent: translation of macromolecular architecture in the force–deformation spectra
Authors: Polotsky Alexey A. , Birshtein Tatiana M. , Mercurieva Anna A. , Leermakers Frans A. M. , Borisov Oleg V.
Published: November 2017

Complex oscillatory patterns in single-molecule force–extension curves for comb-shaped polymers collapsed in a poor solvent are predicted.
Viscoelastic flow past mono- and bidisperse random arrays of cylinders: flow resistance, topology and normal stress distribution
Authors: De S. , Kuipers J. A. M. , Peters E. A. J. F. , Padding J. T.
Published: November 2017

Different flow resistance curves for viscoelastic flows through random arrangements of cylinders collapse to a single master curve when plotted against a Deborah number based on the square root of the permeability as characteristic length scale.
Frustrated packing in a granular system under geometrical confinement
Authors: Lévay Sára , Fischer David , Stannarius Ralf , Szabó Balázs , Börzsönyi Tamás , Török János
Published: November 2017

In this paper we show experimentally and numerically that in 2 + ε dimensions, realized by a container which is in one dimension slightly wider than the spheres, the particles organize themselves in a triangular lattice, while touching either the front or rear side of the container.
Enhancing the real-time detection of phase changes in lithium–graphite intercalated compounds through derivative operando (dOp) NMR cyclic voltammetry
Authors: Lorie Lopez Jose L. , Grandinetti Philip J. , Co Anne C.
Published: November 2017

dOp NMR resolves and differentiates formation and removal of LiC72 to LiC6 as well as previously undetected gas like GIC stages (precursors).
Enhanced cycling stability of ring-shaped phosphorus inside multi-walled carbon nanotubes as anodes for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhao Dan , Zhang Jinying , Fu Chengcheng , Huang Jialiang , Xiao Dingbin , Yuen Matthew M. F. , Niu Chunming
Published: November 2017

The cycling stability of ring-shaped phosphorus as anodes for lithium-ion batteries is significantly enhanced by the encapsulation of carbon nanotubes.
Carbon–TiO2 composites as high-performance supercapacitor electrodes: synergistic effect between carbon and metal oxide phases
Authors: Elmouwahidi A. , Bailón-García E. , Castelo-Quibén J. , Pérez-Cadenas A. F. , Maldonado-Hódar F. J. , Carrasco-Marín F.
Published: November 2017

A series of carbon xerogels doped with different percentages of TiO2 has been studied as a tentative means of preparing electrodes for supercapacitors.
A fiber-shaped solar cell showing a record power conversion efficiency of 10%
Authors: Fu Xuemei , Sun Hao , Xie Songlin , Zhang Jing , Pan Zhiyong , Liao Meng , Xu Limin , Li Zhuoer , Wang Bingjie , Sun Xuemei , Peng Huisheng
Published: November 2017

Hydrophobic core/hydrophilic sheath fibers have been designed for fiber-shaped dye-sensitized solar cells showing a record power conversion efficiency of 10%.
Two- and three-dimensional graphene-based hybrid composites for advanced energy storage and conversion devices
Authors: Azadmanjiri Jalal , Srivastava Vijay K. , Kumar Parshant , Nikzad Mostafa , Wang James , Yu Aimin
Published: November 2017

2D and 3D graphene-based hybrid composites are the most promising materials for a broad range of high-efficiency energy storage and conversion devices.
Morphology controlled lithium storage in Li3VO4 anodes
Authors: Yang Guang , Zhang Bowei , Feng Jianyong , Lu Yu , Wang Zhiqiang , Aravindan Vanchiappan , Aravind Muthiah , Liu Jilei , Srinivasan Madhavi , Shen Zexiang , Huang Yizhong
Published: November 2017

Li3VO4 (LVO) anode materials with controllable morphologies ranging from spherical-assemblies, single-crystal nanorods, and flower shapes to bulk-shapes were fabricated via a solvothermal approach using different alcohols.
A benzyltetramethylimidazolium-based membrane with exceptional alkaline stability in fuel cells: role of its structure in alkaline stability
Authors: Zhu Yuan , He Yubin , Ge Xiaolin , Liang Xian , Shehzad Muhammad A. , Hu Min , Liu Yazhi , Wu Liang , Xu Tongwen
Published: November 2017

Highly alkaline stable imidazolium-type membrane has been developed for fuel cells by protection of the imidazolium ring at C2, C4 and C5 positions.
Comprehensive investigation of the lithium insertion mechanism of the Na2Ti6O13 anode material for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Kuhn Alois , Pérez-Flores Juan Carlos , Hoelzel Markus , Baehtz Carsten , Sobrados Isabel , Sanz Jesús , García-Alvarado Flaviano
Published: November 2017

Sodium hexatitanate Na2Ti6O13 with a tunnel structure has been proposed to be an attractive anode material for lithium ion batteries because of its low insertion voltage, structural stability and good reversibility.
Highly efficient and sustainable non-precious-metal Fe–N–C electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Sun Meng , Davenport Douglas , Liu Huijuan , Qu Jiuhui , Elimelech Menachem , Li Jinghong
Published: November 2017

Efficient and sustainable Fe–N–C catalyst prepared by EDTA–Fe(ii) pyrolysis promotes the ORR performances within a nearly four-electron transfer pathway.
Highly efficient polymer solar cells employing natural chlorophyllin as a cathode interfacial layer
Authors: Guan Qian , Peng Ruixiang , Liu Zhiyang , Song Wei , Yang Rongjuan , Hong Ling , Lei Tao , Fan Xi , Wei Qiang , Ge Ziyi
Published: November 2017

Natural chlorophyllin was applied as cathode interfacial layer for PSCs, which present improved PCE up to 10.55%.
A large, ultra-black, efficient and cost-effective dye-sensitized solar module approaching 12% overall efficiency under 1000 lux indoor light
Authors: Tsai Ming-Chi , Wang Chin-Li , Chang Chiung-Wen , Hsu Cheng-Wei , Hsiao Yu-Hsin , Liu Chia-Lin , Wang Chen-Chi , Lin Shr-Yau , Lin Ching-Yao
Published: November 2017

A large, ultra-black, efficient and cost-effective dye-sensitized solar module reaches an overall efficiency of ∼12% under 1000 lux of T5 fluorescent light.
A general method for boosting the supercapacitor performance of graphitic carbon nitride/graphene hybrids
Authors: Lin Runjia , Li Zhuangnan , Abou El Amaiem Dina Ibrahim , Zhang Bingjie , Brett Dan J. L. , He Guanjie , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: November 2017

A simple method is developed to boost the electrochemical performance of graphitic carbon nitride/graphene composites as supercapacitor electrodes.
Active quinine-based films able to release antimicrobial compounds via melt quaternization at low temperature
Authors: Latorre-Sánchez Alejandro , Johansson Mats , Zhang Yuning , Malkoch Michael , Pomposo José A.
Published: November 2017

An innovative synthetic strategy toward nanostructured cinchona alkaloid-based coatings with antibacterial activity.
Advances on tungsten oxide based photochromic materials: strategies to improve their photochromic properties
Authors: Wang Shufen , Fan Weiren , Liu Zichuan , Yu Aibing , Jiang Xuchuan
Published: November 2017

Photochromic materials have been extensively studied because they are quite attractive and promising for many applications.
Electronic band structures of undoped and P-doped Si nanocrystals embedded in SiO2
Authors: Arduca E. , Seguini G. , Martella C. , Lamperti A. , Napolitani E. , De Salvador D. , Nicotra G. , Scuderi M. , Spinella C. , Perego M.
Published: November 2017

Conduction and valence band maxima in Si nanocrystals (d = 4.2 ± 0.9 nm) embedded in SiO2 as a function of P concentration.
Efficient polymer solar cells based on a cathode interlayer of dicyanomethylenated indacenodithiophene derivative with large π-conjugation and electron-deficient properties
Authors: Miao Yang , Yu Hanbo , Zhang Yuewei , Yan Xianju , Zhang Jingying , Wang Yue
Published: November 2017

Two water/alcohol-soluble indacenodithiophene (IDT) based cathode interlayers (CILs) were synthesized and employed in the fabrication of high-performance polymer solar cells (PSCs).
Coupling hydrodynamics with comoving frame radiative transfer
Authors: Sander A. A. C. , Fürst F. , Kretschmar P. , Oskinova L. M. , Todt H. , Hainich R. , Shenar T. , Hamann W.-R.
Published: November 2017

Context. Vela X-1, a prototypical high-mass X-ray binary (HMXB), hosts a neutron star (NS) in a close orbit around an early-B supergiant donor star. Accretion of the donor star's wind onto the NS powers its strong X-ray luminosity. To understand the physics of HMXBs, detailed knowledge about the donor star winds is required.

Aims. To gain a realistic picture of the donor star in Vela X-1, we constructed a hydrodynamically consistent atmosphere model describing the wind stratification while properly reproducing the observed donor spectrum. To investigate how X-ray illumination affects the stellar wind, we calculated additional models for different X-ray luminosity regimes.

Methods. We used the recently updated version of the Potsdam Wolf–Rayet code to consistently solve the hydrodynamic equation together with the statistical equations and the radiative transfer.

Results. The wind flow in Vela X-1 is driven by ions from various elements, with Fe iii and S iii leading in the outer wind. The model-predicted mass-loss rate is in line with earlier empirical studies. The mass-loss rate is almost unaffected by the presence of the accreting NS in the wind. The terminal wind velocity is confirmed at v∞≈ 600 km s−1. On the other hand, the wind velocity in the inner region where the NS is located is only ≈100 km s−1, which is not expected on the basis of a standard β-velocity law. In models with an enhanced level of X-rays, the velocity field in the outer wind can be altered. If the X-ray flux is too high, the acceleration breaks down because the ionization increases.

Conclusions. Accounting for radiation hydrodynamics, our Vela X-1 donor atmosphere model reveals a low wind speed at the NS location, and it provides quantitative information on wind driving in this important HMXB.
An independent distance estimate to the AGB star R Sculptoris
Authors: Maercker M. , Brunner M. , Mecina M. , De Beck E.
Published: November 2017

Context. Distance measurements to astronomical objects are essential for understanding their intrinsic properties. For asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars it is particularly difficult to derive accurate distance estimates. Period-luminosity relationships rely on the correlation of different physical properties of the stars, while the angular sizes and variability of AGB stars make parallax measurements inherently inaccurate. For the carbon AGB star R Sculptoris, the uncertain distance significantly affects the interpretation of observations regarding the evolution of the stellar mass loss during and after the most recent thermal pulse.

Aim. We aim to provide a new, independent measurement of the distance to R Sculptoris, reducing the absolute uncertainty of the distance estimate to this source.

Methods. R Scl is a semi-regular pulsating star, surrounded by a thin shell of dust and gas created during a thermal pulse ≈2000 years ago. The stellar light is scattered by the dust particles in the shell at a radius of ≈19″. The variation in the stellar light affects the amount of dust-scattered light with the same period and amplitude ratio, but with a phase lag that depends on the absolute size of the shell. We measured this phase lag by observing the star R Scl and the dust-scattered stellar light from the shell at five epochs between June–December 2016. By observing in polarised light, we imaged the shell in the plane of the sky, removing any uncertainty due to geometrical effects. The phase lag gives the absolute size of the shell, and together with the angular size of the shell directly gives the absolute distance to R Sculptoris.

Results. We measured a phase lag between the stellar variations and the variation in the shell of 40.0 ± 4.0 days. The angular size of the shell is measured to be 19.″1 ± 0.″7. Combined, this gives an absolute distance to R Sculptoris of 361 ± 44 pc.

Conclusions. We independently determined the absolute distance to R Scl with an uncertainty of 12%. The estimated distance is consistent with previous estimates, but is one of the most accurate distances to the source to date. In the future, using the variations in polarised, dust-scattered stellar light, may offer an independent possibility to measure reliable distances to AGB stars.
Exhibition of veiled features in diffusion bonding of titanium alloy and stainless steel via copper
Authors: Thirunavukarasu Gopinath , Kundu Sukumar , Laha Tapas , Roy Deb , Chatterjee Subrata
Published: November 2017

An investigation was carried out to know the extent of influence of bonding-time on the interface structure and mechanical properties of diffusion bonding (DB) of TiA|Cu|SS. DB of Ti6Al4V (TiA) and 304 stainless steel (SS) using pure copper (Cu) of 200-μm thickness were processed in vacuum using 4-MPa bonding-pressure at 1123 K from 15 to 120 min in steps of 15 min. Preparation of DB was not possible when bonding-time was less than 60 min as the bonding at Cu|SS interface was unsuccessful in spite of effective bonding at TiA|Cu interface; however, successful DB were produced when the bonding-time was 60 min and beyond. DB processed for 60 and 75 min (classified as shorter bonding-time interval) showed distinctive characteristics (structural, mechanical, and fractural) as compared to the DB processed for 90, 105, and 120 min (classified as longer bonding-time interval). DB processed for 60 and 75 min exhibited layer-wise Cu–Ti-based intermetallics at TiA|Cu interface, whereas Cu|SS interface was completely free from reaction products. The layer-wise structure of Cu–Ti-based intermetallics were not observed at TiA|Cu interface in the DB processed for longer bonding-time; however, the Cu|SS interface had layer-wise ternary intermetallic compounds (T1, T2, and T3) of Cu–Fe–Ti-based along with σ phase depending upon the bonding-time chosen. Diffusivity of Ti-atoms in Cu-layer (DTi in Cu-layer) was much greater than the diffusivity of Fe-atoms in Cu-layer (DFe in Cu-layer). Ti-atoms reached Cu|SS interface but Fe-atoms were unable to reach TiA|Cu interface. It was observed that DB fractured at Cu|SS interface when processed for shorter bonding-time interval, whereas the DB processed for longer bonding-time interval fractured apparently at the middle of Cu-foil region predominantly due to the existence of brittle Cu–Fe–Ti-based intermetallics.
How Should Imaging Direct/Orient Management of Rectal Cancer?
Authors: Bhoday Jemma , Balyasnikova Svetlana , Wale Anita , Brown Gina
Published: November 2017

Modern rectal cancer management is dependent on preoperative staging, and radiological assessment is a crucial part of this process. Imaging must provide sufficient information to guide preoperative decision-making that is reliable and reproducible. Different methods have been used for local staging; however, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has shown to be the most reliable tool for this purpose. MRI offers prognostic information about the patients and guides the decision between neoadjuvant treatment and total mesorectal excision alone. Also, not only the initial staging but also restaging by MRI can provide significant information regarding tumor response that is essential when considering alternative approaches.
Management of the Complete Clinical Response
Authors: São Julião Guilherme , Vailati Bruna , Castro Ivana , Raffaele Debora , Habr-Gama Angelita
Published: November 2017

Organ preservation is considered in the management of selected patients with rectal cancer. Complete clinical response observed after neoadjuvant chemoradiation for rectal cancer is one of these cases. Patients who present complete clinical response are candidates to the watch-and-wait approach, when radical surgery is not immediately performed and is offered only to patients in the event of a local relapse. These patients are included in a strict follow-up, and up of 70% of them will never be operated during the follow-up. This strategy is associated with similar oncological outcomes as patients operated on, and the advantage of avoiding the morbidity associated to the radical operation. In this article we will discuss in detail the best candidates for this approach, the protocol itself, and the long-term outcomes.
Organ-Preserving Strategies for the Management of Near-Complete Responses in Rectal Cancer after Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation
Authors: Lynn Patricio , Strombom Paul , Garcia-Aguilar Julio
Published: November 2017

In recent years, organ preservation has been considered a feasible alternative to total mesorectal excision for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer with a clinical complete response to neoadjuvant therapy. However, the degree of tumor response to neoadjuvant therapy is variable. A fraction of the patients who did not achieve a complete response had grossly visible tumors. These patients, with clearly incomplete clinical response, need a total mesorectal excision. In addition, some patients with a significant tumor response still have some abnormalities in the bowel wall, such as superficial ulceration or tissue nodularity, which, while not conclusive for the presence of a tumor, are indicative of the possibility of a residual tumor in the bowel wall or in mesorectal lymph nodes. The management of patients with a so-called near-complete clinical response to neoadjuvant therapy is controversial. In this article, we will review the clinical and radiological criteria that define a clinical response to neoadjuvant therapy, possible treatment strategies, and follow-up protocols. We will also discuss patient and tumor characteristics that in our opinion can be useful in selecting the most appropriate treatment alternative. Although organ preservation and quality of life are important, the primary goal of treatment for these patients should be local tumor control and long-term survival.
Neoadjuvant Strategies: Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer
Authors: Ahmed Shahab , Eng Cathy
Published: November 2017

Colorectal cancer is one of the major leading causes of death in both men and women. The successful management of colon or rectal cancer demands a multidisciplinary approach. In the last few years, significant improvement has been noticed in the management of localized rectal cancer to reduce local recurrence and obtain complete pathological response following appropriate surgical steps, if necessary. Implementation of neoadjuvant therapy not only enhances disease control, it may also ensure sphincter preserving procedures or organ-preserving options. This article principally concentrates on the current neoadjuvant treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer and the prognostic outcomes of such therapy, including a discussion on the historical perspective.
“The Serpentine Zone”: A Surgeon's Guide to the Surface Anatomy of the Digital Neurovascular Spiral in Dupuytren's Contracture
Authors: Macey Alistair , Thomas Roshin
Published: November 2017

The anatomy of the cords that form in Dupuytren's disease is complicated and a spiral cord is the most challenging variant to address. It displaces the neurovascular bundle toward or beyond the midline and closer to the skin. This article illustrates the surface anatomy of the neurovascular spiral to help surgeons identify this zone of danger that the authors term “the serpentine zone.” Careful dissection in this zone will help avoid iatrogenic digital neurovascular injury.
No Value of Routine Brain Computed Tomography 6 Weeks after Evacuation of Chronic Subdural Hematoma
Authors: Pedersen Christian , Sundbye Filippa , Poulsen Frantz
Published: November 2017

Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of planned control postoperative brain computed tomography (CT) scan performed 4 to 6 weeks after the evacuation of chronic subdural hematoma.

Materials and Methods This retrospective study examined 202 patients who during a 2-year period from 2011 and 2012 underwent surgical treatment for chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). Information on patient age, sex, alcohol consumption, anticoagulant/antiplatelet treatment, history of head trauma, Glasgow coma scale (GCS), neurological symptoms, laterality of CSDH, and surgical technique was retrieved from patient charts.

Results Overall, 27 out of 202 patients had a recurrence of CSDH and re-evacuation of the hematoma was performed. In all patients recurrence of neurological symptoms preceded the planned postoperative control brain CT 4 to 6 weeks after primary surgery.

Conclusion Routinely postoperative control brain CT scan 4 to 6 weeks after the evacuation of a CSDH has no clinical value.
Pyelonephritis in Pregnancy: Clinical and Laboratorial Aspects and Perinatal Results
Authors: Zanatta Djulie Anne de Lemos , Rossini Mariane de Mello , Trapani Júnior Alberto
Published: November 2017

Objective To identify the prevalence of pyelonephritis during pregnancy and to analyze the clinical and laboratorial aspects, perinatal results and complications.

Methods A transversal study of 203 pregnant women who had pyelonephritis during pregnancy and whose labor took place between 2010 and 2016 at a hospital in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. The analysis was based on medical records as well as on the hospital's database. Clinical and laboratory conditions, antibiotics, bacterial resistance, perinatal outcomes and complications were all taken into account. The data was compared using the Mann-Whitney test and the Chi-square test.

Results A prevalence of 1.97% with pyelonephritis was evidenced, with most patients having it during the second trimester of gestation. The bacteria most commonly found in the urine cultures was Escherichia coli, in 76.6% of cases, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (8.7%). Ceftriaxone had the lowest bacterial resistance (only 3.5% of the cases). On the other hand, ampicillin and cephalothin presented higher bacterial resistance, 52% and 36.2%, respectively. The risk of very premature delivery was more than 50% higher in patients with pyelonephritis.

Conclusion Ampicillin and first-generation cephalosporins are associated with a higher bacterial resistance while ceftriaxone proved to have a high efficacy for the treatment of pyelonephritis due to low bacterial resistance. Patients with pyelonephritis showed a higher risk for very premature delivery (< 32 weeks). In this casuistry, there were no others significant differences in the overall perinatal outcomes when compared with the routine service series.
Atypical Neurologic Phenotype and Novel SLC30A10 Mutation in Two Brothers with Hereditary Hypermanganesemia
Authors: Gulab Shamshad , Al-Said Youssef , Kayyali Husam
Published: November 2017

Manganese (Mn) is an essential element in trace quantity but large amounts are toxic. A novel hereditary disorder encompassing high blood Mn levels, dystonia, polycythemia, distinctive T1 hyperintense signals in the basal ganglia on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain, and chronic liver disease was recently described. The disorder is caused by mutations in a Mn transporter encoding gene SLC30A10. We are reporting the clinical features of this rare disorder in two Saudi brothers. The older brother presented with progressive gait difficulties, hypotonia, intermittent dystonia, polycythemia, and characteristic T1-hyperintense lesions on MRI brain. SLC30A10 sequencing identified a novel missense mutation. The younger brother was identified in presymptomatic phase on family screening. Chelation therapy with disodium calcium edetate (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, EDTA) led to stabilization of gait, reduction in Mn levels, and resolution of polycythemia. We wish to highlight the atypical neurologic presentation, a novel missense mutation, and beneficial effect of EDTA in this rare disease.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction. Guideline of the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (S2k-Level, AWMF Registry No. 015/080, October 2016)
Authors: Kehl Sven , Dötsch Jörg , Hecher Kurt , Schlembach Dietmar , Schmitz Dagmar , Stepan Holger , Gembruch Ulrich
Published: November 2017

Aims The aim of this official guideline published and coordinated by the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG) was to provide consensus-based recommendations obtained by evaluating the relevant literature for the diagnostic treatment and management of women with fetal growth restriction.

Methods This S2k guideline represents the structured consensus of a representative panel of experts with a range of different professional backgrounds commissioned by the Guideline Committee of the DGGG.

Recommendations Recommendations for diagnostic treatment, management, counselling, prophylaxis and screening are presented.
Pregnancy Outcomes in Maternal Neuropsychiatric Illness and Substance Abuse
Authors: Bartel Severine , Costa Serban , Kropf Siegfried , Redlich Anke , Rissmann Anke
Published: November 2017

Introduction Worldwide the prevalence of neuropsychiatric illness among women of reproductive age is higher than ever before. This study investigates the influences of maternal substance abuse/dependence and neuropsychiatric illness on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes.

Patients and Methods Using a retrospective study design 185 pregnancies in women with neuropsychiatric illnesses or substance abuse were identified at a single centre over a period of 3.25 years and compared to 4907 pregnancies in healthy women without mental illness. Differences in pre-, peri- and postnatal pregnancy parameters were studied.

Results Numbers of previous abortions on obstetric history were significantly higher in cases compared to controls, women with depression being especially affected. The number of antenatal visits was also higher among cases, especially in women with depression. The caesarean section rate was significantly higher in cases compared to controls. Children of women with neuropsychiatric illness were born at lower gestational ages than those of healthy control mothers, however there were no significant differences between case and control groups for birth weight, head circumference or Apgar scores. Some isolated differences were found for disease-specific case subgroups compared to controls.

Conclusion The study shows a relationship between maternal neuropsychiatric illness and pregnancy outcomes independent of medication use. Rates of spontaneous abortion were higher. Children were born earlier, yet the neonatal outcomes birth weight, head circumference and Apgar score were not worse than children of mentally healthy women.
Effect of Premature Rupture of Membranes on Induction of Labor: A Historical Cohort Study
Authors: Kehl Sven , Weiss Christel , Dammer Ulf , Baier Friederike , Faschingbauer Florian , Beckmann Matthias , Sütterlin Marc , Pretscher Jutta
Published: November 2017

Objective The aim of this study was to assess the influence of premature rupture of membranes (PROM) on the induction of labor.

Material and Method This historical cohort study analyzed 1861 inductions of labor at term using misoprostol which occurred between 2010 and 2015. Exclusion criteria included intrauterine fetal death, previous cesarean section, and fetal structural or chromosomal anomalies. Induction of labor for PROM (PROM group) was compared to induction for other indications (no-PROM group); the primary outcome measure was the cesarean section rate.

Results The cesarean section rate for the PROM group was significantly lower (21.9% vs. 26.3%, p = 0.029). The induction-to-delivery interval was shorter (mean: 972 [854 – 6734] min vs. 1741 [97 – 10 834] min, p < 0.0001) and the rates of vaginal birth within 24 hours (80.9 vs. 52.0%, p = 0.0001) and 48 hours (98.4 vs. 85.3%, p = 0.0001) were higher in the PROM group. The impact of PROM on the cesarean section rate was not significant in multivariate analysis; however, PROM was found to have the greatest effect on the induction-to-delivery interval (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion Premature rupture of membranes significantly affects various outcome measures when delivery is induced, particularly the induction-to-delivery interval.
Neutron and X-ray Tomography (NeXT) system for simultaneous, dual modality tomography
Authors: LaManna J. M. , Hussey D. S. , Baltic E. , Jacobson D. L.
Published: November 2017

Dual mode tomography using neutrons and X-rays offers the potential of improved estimation of the composition of a sample from the complementary interaction of the two probes with the sample. We have developed a simultaneous neutron and 90 keV X-ray tomography system that is well suited to the study of porous media systems such as fuel cells, concrete, unconventional reservoir geologies, limestones, and other geological media. We present the characteristic performance of both the neutron and X-ray modalities. We illustrate the use of the simultaneous acquisition through improved phase identification in a concrete core.
Existence of topological multi-string solutions in Abelian gauge field theories
Authors: Han Jongmin , Sohn Juhee
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we consider a general form of self-dual equations arising from Abelian gauge field theories coupled with the Einstein equations. By applying the super/subsolution method, we prove that topological multi-string solutions exist for any coupling constant, which improves previously known results. We provide two examples for application: the self-dual Einstein-Maxwell-Higgs model and the gravitational Maxwell gauged O(3) sigma model.
Spatially inhomogeneous photoluminescence-voltage hysteresis in planar heterojunction perovskite-based solar cells
Authors: Xu Zhihua , Edgeton Anthony , Costello Sydney
Published: November 2017

Spatially resolved photoluminescence (PL) of methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) films in planar heterojunction solar cells is probed by time-resolved confocal microscopy to study the interface effect on PL intensity-voltage (PL-V) hysteresis. Negligible PL-V hysteresis is observed at the interfacial area, while significant hysteresis is observed in the bulk film. PL lifetime imaging of the perovskite device reveals inhomogeneous charge extraction due to variation of the interfacial contact quality. Poor interfacial contact leads to more severe PL-V hysteresis in the bulk perovskite film. The PL-V characteristics also suggest that voltage-driven ion migration may lead to redistribution of charge traps, and consequently affect the nonradiative charge recombination and the PL intensity in MAPbI3 films.
Measurement of the Na2 51Σg+→A1Σu+ and 61Σg+→A1Σu+ transition dipole moments using optical-optical double resonance and Autler–Townes spectroscopy
Authors: Sanli Aydin , Pan Xinhua , Magnier Sylvie , Huennekens John , Lyyra A. Marjatta , Ahmed Ergin H.
Published: November 2017

Accurate knowledge of transition dipole moment matrix elements is crucial since important parameters associated with the interaction of light with matter, such as emission and absorption line intensities, lifetimes, and Einstein coefficients, depend on these matrix elements. We report here an experimental study of the Na2 51Σg+↔A1Σu+ and 61Σg+↔A1Σu+ electronic transition dipole moments and their dependence on internuclear distance. We have measured absolute transition dipole matrix elements for ro-vibrational transitions of the Na2 51Σg+↔A1Σu+ and 61Σg+↔A1Σu+ electronic transitions using Autler-Townes and optical-optical double resonance spectroscopy, and we compare the results to ab initio theoretical values [A. Sanli et al., J. Chem. Phys. 143, 104304 (2015)].
Control of two-phase flow in microfluidics using out-of-phase electroconvective streaming
Authors: Liu Weiyu , Ren Yukun , Tao Ye , Chen Xiaoming , Yao Bobin , Hui Meng , Bai Lin
Published: November 2017

We propose herein to make use of rotating electric fields for achieving flexible control on the hydrodynamic behavior of two miscible co-flowing water solutions in straight microchannels, in the context of a new manipulation tool for stratified liquid contents of microfluidic systems. Our theoretical analysis indicates that, while fluids of distinct electrical conductivities and identical permittivity are parallel pumped into the mainchannel, a circularly traveling field, as emitted from a four-phase electrode array surrounding the channel sidewalls, can direct the deflection of diffusing phase interface between the side-by-side miscible electrolyte streams asynchronously at half of the interfacial relaxation frequency, where the co-field electrorotational torque becomes most appreciable. An immediate application of the out-of-phase electroconvective streaming is that time required for electrolyte mixing is reduced because the area of two-phase contact interface is dramatically enlarged, and a serial combination of several rotating electrode arrays of alternate propagating directions can further rectify the mixing of microfluidics by inducing chaotic advection.
Sequence charge decoration dictates coil-globule transition in intrinsically disordered proteins
Authors: Firman Taylor , Ghosh Kingshuk
Published: November 2017

We present an analytical theory to compute conformations of heteropolymers—applicable to describe disordered proteins—as a function of temperature and charge sequence. The theory describes coil-globule transition for a given protein sequence when temperature is varied and has been benchmarked against the all-atom Monte Carlo simulation (using CAMPARI) of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs). In addition, the model quantitatively shows how subtle alterations of charge placement in the primary sequence—while maintaining the same charge composition—can lead to significant changes in conformation, even as drastic as a coil (swelled above a purely random coil) to globule (collapsed below a random coil) and vice versa. The theory provides insights on how to control (enhance or suppress) these changes by tuning the temperature (or solution condition) and charge decoration. As an application, we predict the distribution of conformations (at room temperature) of all naturally occurring IDPs in the DisProt database and notice significant size variation even among IDPs with a similar composition of positive and negative charges. Based on this, we provide a new diagram-of-states delineating the sequence-conformation relation for proteins in the DisProt database. Next, we study the effect of post-translational modification, e.g., phosphorylation, on IDP conformations. Modifications as little as two-site phosphorylation can significantly alter the size of an IDP with everything else being constant (temperature, salt concentration, etc.). However, not all possible modification sites have the same effect on protein conformations; there are certain “hot spots” that can cause maximal change in conformation. The location of these “hot spots” in the parent sequence can readily be identified by using a sequence charge decoration metric originally introduced by Sawle and Ghosh. The ability of our model to predict conformations (both expanded and collapsed states) of IDPs at a high-throughput level can provide valuable insights into the different mechanisms by which phosphorylation/charge mutation controls IDP function.
Work function and surface stability of tungsten-based thermionic electron emission cathodes
Authors: Jacobs Ryan , Morgan Dane , Booske John
Published: November 2017

Materials that exhibit a low work function and therefore easily emit electrons into vacuum form the basis of electronic devices used in applications ranging from satellite communications to thermionic energy conversion. W–Ba–O is the canonical materials system that functions as the thermionic electron emitter commercially used in a range of high-power electron devices. However, the work functions, surface stability, and kinetic characteristics of a polycrystalline W emitter surface are still not well understood or characterized. In this study, we examined the work function and surface stability of the eight lowest index surfaces of the W–Ba–O system using density functional theory methods. We found that under the typical thermionic cathode operating conditions of high temperature and low oxygen partial pressure, the most stable surface adsorbates are Ba–O species with compositions in the range of Ba0.125O–Ba0.25O per surface W atom, with O passivating all dangling W bonds and Ba creating work function-lowering surface dipoles. Wulff construction analysis reveals that the presence of O and Ba significantly alters the surface energetics and changes the proportions of surface facets present under equilibrium conditions. Analysis of previously published data on W sintering kinetics suggests that fine W particles in the size range of 100-500 nm may be at or near equilibrium during cathode synthesis and thus may exhibit surface orientation fractions well described by the calculated Wulff construction.
First-principle study on the electronic structure and optical property of new diluted magnetic semiconductor (Y0.75Sr0.25) (Cu0.75Mn0.25)SO
Authors: Zhang Li , Chen Haoze , Feng Shan , Li Linxian , Li Yuke , Chen Jianye
Published: November 2017

In this research, we investigated the electronic structure and optical property of new diluted magnetic semiconductor (Y0.75Sr0.25) (Cu0.75Mn0.25)SO with decoupled charge and spin doping by first-principle calculation. We also compared (Y0.75Sr0.25) (Cu0.75Mn0.25)SO with pure YCuSO, and found that (Y0.75Sr0.25) (Cu0.75Mn0.25)SO is still a direct semiconductor with a band gap 1.20eV. The important difference from YCuSO is that the DOS of (Y0.75Sr0.25) (Cu0.75Mn0.25)SO presents asymmetry around fermi surface, leading to obvious spin order and ferror-magnetism due to the p-d hybridization through Mn 3d and S 3p. In case of the optical properties (including reflectivity coefficient, absorption coefficient, the imaginary part and real part of complex dielectric constant), the intensity of all peaks for both pure and doped YCuSO tends to zero above 15.5eV. However, the value of all the peaks for (Y0.75Sr0.25) (Cu0.75Mn0.25)SO reduces to some extent due to the Sr and Mn dopant. In addition, the position of all the peaks for (Y0.75Sr0.25) (Cu0.75Mn0.25)SO have a “red shift”, probably originating from the impurity states generated by the p-d hybridization through Mn 3d and S 3p. This will be beneficial for searching new 1111 phase DMS.
Correlation-induced refrigeration with superconducting single-electron transistors
Authors: Sánchez Rafael
Published: November 2017

A model of a superconducting tunnel junction which refrigerates a nearby metallic island without any particle exchange is presented. Heat extraction is mediated by charge fluctuations in the coupling capacitance of the two systems. The interplay of the Coulomb interaction and the superconducting gap reduces the power consumption of the refrigerator. The island is predicted to be cooled from lattice temperatures of 200 mK down to close to 50 mK for realistic parameters. The results emphasize the role of non-equilibrium correlations in bipartite mesoscopic conductors. This mechanism can be applied to create local temperature gradients in tunnel junction arrays or explore the role of interactions in the thermalization of non-equilibrium systems.
The effect of the inhomogeneous collision frequency on the absorption of electromagnetic waves in a magnetized plasma
Authors: Guo LiXin , Guo LinJing
Published: November 2017

The effect of an inhomogeneous collision frequency on the propagation of electromagnetic waves in a high temperature magnetized plasma is analyzed numerically. A parabolic profile is adopted to describe the non-uniformity of the collision frequency. The results of the numerical calculations show that the effect caused by the inhomogeneity of the collision frequency can be weakened by higher electron density; it can also be strengthened by a larger plasma thickness and stronger collision frequency. We also found that the effect caused by inhomogeneous collision frequency is of the same order as the effect originated from the inhomogeneous electron density. The results presented may improve modeling accuracy in applications related to space exploration.