bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Miniaturised Wilkinson power divider with wide‐stopband using synthetic transmission line
Authors: Chen C.‐C. , Sim C.Y.D. , Chen J.‐W. , Lin J.‐H.
Published: May 2017

A wide‐stopband Wilkinson power divider (WPD) is proposed, which can be realised by using open dual‐transmission line (TL) stub and L‐type artificial lowpass TL structures. To further achieve miniaturisation, synthetic TLs are also employed. The simulated and measured results are consistent, and the measured |S21| and |S31| (insertion losses) have shown stop‐bandwidth of larger than 18.33 GHz (1.67–20 GHz) and 18.28 GHz (1.72–20 GHz), respectively, under the condition of 30 dB harmonic suppression level. The wide‐stopband of the WPD can cover 2fo–22.2fo (fo = 0.9 GHz), and the occupied area of the WPD (not include the feeding network) is only 0.11λg × 0.06λg (λg: guided wavelength at fo).
Current‐balance method for multi‐phase DC–DC buck converters with wide duty ratio applications in both CCM and DCM
Authors: Zhang Shuyu , Zhao Menglian , Wu Xiaobo , Zhang Haozhou
Published: May 2017

To cope with the current imbalance situation of multi‐phase buck converters with wide duty ratio range applications in continuous conduction mode (CCM) and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM), a current‐balance method is proposed. In CCM, with small power loss, current balance can be achieved by comparing the replica currents flowing through the sensing transistors. In DCM, an additional offset cancellation circuit is designed to eliminate the intrinsic offset voltage mismatch existing in main‐loop comparators. Then each phase sequentially performs a switching operation to share the switching stress. Experimental results show that the current imbalance is decreased to 0.15% under duty ratio from 0.1 to 0.75. Load current is well distributed between phases in both the CCM and DCM without tricky implement.
Influence of stator/rotor‐pole combination on electromagnetic performance in all/alternate poles wound partitioned stator doubly salient permanent magnet machines
Authors: Wu Zhongze , Zhu Z.Q.
Published: May 2017

In this study, the influence of stator/rotor‐pole combinations on electromagnetic performance in partitioned stator doubly salient permanent magnet (PS‐DSPM) machines is investigated, in terms of open‐circuit flux‐linkage, back‐electromotive force (EMF), cogging torque and on‐load torque characteristics. Analytical deduction shows that by modifying the all poles wound winding to alternate poles wound winding in the 12/11‐ and 12/13 stator/rotor‐pole PS‐DSPM machines, the fundamental distribution factor and hence the fundamental winding factor can be enhanced, resulting higher torque density. Consequently, among the 12‐stator‐pole all and alternate poles wound PS‐DSPM machines, the 10‐ and 11‐rotor‐pole machines exhibit the highest torque density, respectively. However, the 12/10‐ and 12/14‐pole alternate poles wound PS‐DSPM machines suffer from higher phase back‐EMF even harmonics, resulting larger torque ripple. The 12/10‐ and 12/11‐pole all and alternate poles wound prototypes are built and tested to verify the finite‐element analysis.
Manganese spin relaxation in ferromagnetic (Ga,Mn)As
Authors: Krainov I. V. , Averkiev N. S. , Lähderanta E.
Published: May 2017

A theory of spin relaxation of 3d5-electrons of manganese in (Ga,Mn)As, including ferromagnetic and paramagnetic phases, is presented. In manganese doped gallium arsenide, holes act in two ways: as carriers of magnetic interactions between manganese centers and as a channel for their spin relaxation. The strong spin-orbital interactions of the holes lead to short spin relaxation times and exchange interactions of the holes with the 3d5-electrons of manganese cause its rapid spin relaxation. This mechanism for spin relaxation of manganese predominates in the ferromagnetic phase, while the main mechanism for spin relaxation of Mn in the paramagnetic phase is through fluctuations in the hole spins.
Photofragmentation dynamics of N,N-dimethylformamide following excitation at 193 nm
Authors: Lipciuc M. Laura , Gardiner Sara H. , Karsili Tolga N. V. , Lee Jason W. L. , Heathcote David , Ashfold Michael N. R. , Vallance Claire
Published: May 2017

N,N-dimethylformamide, HCON(CH3)2, is a useful model compound for investigating the peptide bond photofragmentation dynamics. We report data from a comprehensive experimental and theoretical study into the photofragmentation dynamics of N,N-dimethylformamide in the gas phase at 193 nm. Through a combination of velocity-map imaging and hydrogen atom Rydberg tagging photofragment translational spectroscopy we have identified two primary fragmentation channels, namely, fission of the N–CO “peptide” bond and N–CH3 bond fission leading to the loss of CH3. The possible fragmentation channels leading to the observed products are rationalised with recourse to CASPT2 calculations of the ground and first few excited-state potential energy curves along the relevant dissociation coordinates, and the results are compared with the data from previous experimental and theoretical studies on the same system.
Quasi-Bell inequalities from symmetrized products of noncommuting qubit observables
Authors: Gamel Omar E. , Fleming Graham R.
Published: May 2017

Noncommuting observables cannot be simultaneously measured; however, under local hidden variable models, they must simultaneously hold premeasurement values, implying the existence of a joint probability distribution. We study the joint distributions of noncommuting observables on qubits, with possible criteria of positivity and the Fréchet bounds limiting the joint probabilities, concluding that the latter may be negative. We use symmetrization, justified heuristically and then more carefully via the Moyal characteristic function, to find the quantum operator corresponding to the product of noncommuting observables. This is then used to construct Quasi-Bell inequalities, Bell inequalities containing products of noncommuting observables, on two qubits. These inequalities place limits on the local hidden variable models that define joint probabilities for noncommuting observables. We find that the Quasi-Bell inequalities have a quantum to classical violation as high as 32 on two qubit, higher than conventional Bell inequalities. The result demonstrates the theoretical importance of noncommutativity in the nonlocality of quantum mechanics and provides an insightful generalization of Bell inequalities.
Low-loss pigtail reflector for fiber lasers
Authors: Masuda Taizo , Iyoda Mitsuhiro , Yasumatsu Yuta , Endo Masamori
Published: May 2017

We demonstrate a low-loss pigtail reflector for a fiber laser comprising off-the-shelf components. A pigtail configuration has the advantage of easy alteration of the reflection properties, which is highly desired for basic studies and metrological applications. Our proposed reflector consists of a dielectric-coated bulk mirror and an Ferrule connector (FC)-type fiber receptacle, which are fixed with a machined holder such that the FC-type connector at the fiber end can be attached onto the mirror surface with an appropriate amount of pressure, which is essential for minimal reflection loss. The measured reflection loss is 0.07 dB, which is one order of magnitude less than that of the typical connection loss, 0.52 dB, of an FC-FC interconnection; it is comparable to the typical splice loss of a single-mode fiber (0.05 dB). The benefit of the proposed method is its versatility that enables its application to various types of fiber lasers.
New data and developments pertaining to ideas about the electron system of hybridized states of cobalt impurity atoms in a mercury selenide crystal
Authors: Govorkova T. E. , Zhevstovskikh I. V. , Lonchakov A. T. , Okulov V. I. , Okulova K. A. , Podgornykh S. M. , Bobin S. B. , Deryushkin V. V. , Paranchich L. D.
Published: May 2017

New experimental data on the manifestation of hybridization and spin polarization effects in 3d-states of donor electrons of a low concentration of cobalt atoms in mercury selenide crystals are obtained. The Hall concentration and mobility of conduction electrons as a function of impurity concentration, and the temperature dependences of the electron mobility, specific heat, and elastic moduli at low temperatures, are investigated. A quantitative interpretation of the observed dependences based on an earlier-developed theory in a justified simplified model of a single localization peak in the electron density of states is performed. As a result, the hybridization parameters of the cobalt states are determined by consistently fitting the observed experimental dependences, and evidence for the spontaneous spin polarization of electrons in the temperature dependences of the impurity specific heat and impurity contribution to the elastic moduli is detected.
Effect of dipolar interactions and DC magnetic field on the specific absorption rate of an array of magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Déjardin J.-L. , Vernay F. , Respaud M. , Kachkachi H.
Published: May 2017

We address the issue of inter-particle dipolar interactions in the context of magnetic hyperthermia. More precisely, the main question dealt with here is concerned with the conditions under which the specific absorption rate is enhanced or reduced by dipolar interactions. For this purpose, we propose a theory for the calculation of the AC susceptibility, and thereby the specific absorption rate, for a monodisperse two-dimensional assembly of nanoparticles with oriented anisotropy, in the presence of a DC magnetic field, in addition to the AC magnetic field. We also study the competition between the dipolar interactions and the DC field, both in the transverse and longitudinal configurations. In both cases, we find that the specific absorption rate has a maximum at some critical DC field that depends on the inter-particle separation. In the longitudinal setup, this critical field falls well within the range of experiments.
Understanding ferroelectric Al:HfO2 thin films with Si-based electrodes for 3D applications
Authors: Florent K. , Lavizzari S. , Popovici M. , Di Piazza L. , Celano U. , Groeseneken G. , Van Houdt J.
Published: May 2017

Ferroelectric hafnium oxide is a promising candidate for logic and memory applications as it maintains excellent ferroelectric properties at nm-size ensuring compatibility with state of the art semiconductor manufacturing. Most of the published papers report on the study of this material through Metal-Insulator-Metal capacitors or Metal-Insulator-Silicon transistors. However, for 3D vertical transistors in which both the channel and gate are polysilicon, the case of silicon-based electrodes cannot be ignored. In this paper, we report the fabrication of various ferroelectric capacitors with silicon (S) based conductive layers and titanium nitride metal (M) electrodes using aluminum doped hafnium oxide (I). The ferroelectric device with silicon-based electrodes shows superior polarization and steeper switching. These results pave the way toward 3D integration for potential 3D NAND replacement.
Enhancement of proton acceleration by a right-handed circularly polarized laser interaction with a cone target exposed to a longitudinal magnetic field
Authors: Gong J. X. , Cao L. H. , Pan K. Q. , Xiao K. D. , Wu D. , Zheng C. Y. , Liu Z. J. , He X. T.
Published: May 2017

Our previous research [J. X. Gong et al. Phys. Plasmas 24, 033103 (2017)] shows that in the presence of an external longitudinal magnetic field, there is no cut-off density when a right-handed (RH-) circularly polarized (CP) laser propagates in the plasmas. In this work, the proton acceleration driven by an RH-CP laser interaction with a pre-magnetized cone target filled with a pre-formed plasma is investigated under the mechanism of target normal sheath acceleration. The strength of the external magnetic field considered in this paper is comparable to that of the incident laser. The two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulation results show that with an external longitudinal magnetic field, both the energy and yield of protons accelerated by the sheath electric field at the rear of the target are remarkably increased because of the higher coupling efficiency from RH-CP laser energy to electrons and the more efficient electron acceleration. Electrons can be converged remarkably by the external magnetic field and the divergence of protons can be controlled evidently by the collimated electrons. The maximum cut-off energy of protons with an imposed longitudinal magnetic field can be promoted to be as high as 82 MeV. Detailed simulation results show that the maximum energy of protons increases with the increasing initial external magnetic field.
Charge transport properties of intrinsic layer in diamond vertical pin diode
Authors: Shimaoka Takehiro , Kuwabara Daisuke , Hara Asuka , Makino Toshiharu , Tanaka Manobu , Koizumi Satoshi
Published: May 2017

Diamond is hoped to be utilized in ultimate power electronic devices exhibiting ultra-high blocking voltages. For practical device formation, it is important to characterize the electric properties to precisely simulate carrier transport and to practically design optimum device structures. In this study, we experimentally evaluated the charge transport properties of intrinsic layers in diamond vertical pin diodes using alpha-particle induced charge distribution measurements. The charge collection efficiencies were 98.1 ± 0.6% for a {111} pin diode and 96.9 ± 0.6% for a {100} pin diode, which means that almost all generated charges are collected accordingly equivalent to conventional Silicon pin photodiodes. Mobility-lifetime (μτ) products of holes were (2.2 ± 0.3) × 10−6 cm2/V for {111} and (1.8 ± 0.1) × 10−5 cm2/V for {100} diamond pin diodes.
Evaluation and comparison of two microfluidic size separation strategies for vesicle suspensions
Authors: Storslett Kari J. , Muller Susan J.
Published: May 2017

Two size-based separation strategies are evaluated for suspensions consisting of giant unilamellar vesicles with a broad, continuous distribution of diameters. Microfluidic devices were designed to separate an initial suspension into larger and smaller particles via either filtration or inertial focusing. These separation mechanisms were tested with suspensions of vesicles and suspensions of rigid spheres separately to illustrate the effect of deformability on separation ability. We define several separation metrics to assess the separation ability and to enable comparison between separation strategies. The filtration device significantly reduced the polydispersity of the separated vesicle fractions relative to the starting suspension and displayed an ability to separate vesicle suspensions at high throughputs. The device that utilized inertial focusing exhibited adequate polydispersity reduction and performed best with diluted vesicle suspensions. The inertial device had fewer issues with debris and trapped air, leading to short device preparation times and indicating a potential for continuous separation operation.
Effects of drinking saline water on food and water intake, blood and urine electrolytes and biochemical and haematological parameters in goats: a preliminary study
Authors: Zoidis Evangelos , Hadjigeorgiou Ioannis
Published: May 2017

Drinking-water availability, both of quantity and quality, critically limits animal farming in semiarid and arid areas, but differences among species exist. The aim of the present study was to investigate goat saline-water tolerance. A group of four castrated adult males were used in a 4-week experimental period, which followed a 2-week pre-trial period and preceded a 1-week post-trial period. Animals were offered alfalfa hay and concentrates at about maintenance level and were allowed consecutively the following five levels of water salinity: 0‰, 0.5‰, 5‰, 10‰ and 20‰ NaCl. Feed and water consumption were recorded daily during trial, while blood- and urine-sample collections were performed weekly. Plasma concentrations of aldosterone, sodium (Na), potassium (K), glucose, creatinine, urea and proteins, and haematological parameters were analysed. Furthermore, urine pH, specific weight and concentrations of Na, K and creatinine were measured, as well as plasma and urine osmolality. Water intake increased until 10‰ NaCl (from 2.0 to 3.2 L/day, P < 0.001) and decreased thereafter to reach 2.5 L/day. Feed intake decreased (from 1.4 to 1.1 kg/day, P < 0.001) and urine excretion increased with an increasing salinity (from 1.12 to 1.47 L/day, P < 0.001). Increasing salinity elevated plasma concentrations of Na (from 143 to 150 mmol/L, P < 0.05), glucose (from 67.50 to 80.75 mg/dL, P < 0.05), urea (from 26.5 to 47 mg/dL, P < 0.01), proteins (from 6.3 to 8.3 g/dL, P < 0.001), osmolality (from 284 to 299 mosm/kg, P < 0.01) and creatinine (from 0.8 to 1.0 mg/dL, P < 0.01) whereas, K, aldosterone and bodyweight remained unaffected. Moreover, urine osmolality (from 317 to 1217 mosm/kg, P < 0.001), specific weight (from 1018 to 1040, P < 0.01), Na (from 55 to 377 mmol/L, P < 0.001) and K (from 144 to 329 mmol/L, P < 0.001) increased, whereas, pH and creatinine were unaffected. Observed changes in other haematological parameters are considered of minor physiological importance. The results indicated that goats can subsist on drinking saline water (up to 20‰ NaCl), for at least 2 weeks without harmful effects.
Fall and Winter Survival of Brook Trout and Brown Trout in a North‐Central Pennsylvania Watershed
Authors: Sweka John A. , Davis Lori A. , Wagner Tyler
Published: May 2017

Stream‐dwelling salmonids that spawn in the fall generally experience their lowest survival during the fall and winter due to behavioral changes associated with spawning and energetic deficiencies during this time of year. We used data from Brook TroutSalvelinus fontinalisand Brown TroutSalmo truttaimplanted with radio transmitters in tributaries of the Hunts Run watershed of north‐central Pennsylvania to estimate survival from the fall into the winter seasons (September 2012–February 2013). We examined the effects that individual‐level covariates (trout species, size, and movement rates) and stream‐level covariates (individual stream and cumulative drainage area of a stream) have on survival. Brook Trout experienced significantly lower survival than Brown Trout, especially in the early fall during their peak spawning period. Besides a significant species effect, none of the other covariates examined influenced survival for either species. A difference in life history between these species, with Brook Trout having a shorter life expectancy than Brown Trout, is likely the primary reason for the lower survival of Brook Trout. However, Brook Trout also spawn earlier in the fall than Brown Trout and low flows during Brook Trout spawning may have resulted in a greater risk of predation for Brook Trout compared with Brown Trout, thereby also contributing to the observed differences in survival between these species. Our estimates of survival can aid parameterization of future population models for Brook Trout and Brown Trout through the spawning season and into winter.

Received September 9, 2016; accepted March 6, 2017 Published online May 26, 2017
Phototaxic Behavior of Subyearling Salmonids in the Nearshore Area of Two Urban Lakes in Western Washington State
Authors: Tabor Roger A. , Bell Alex T. C. , Lantz Daniel W. , Gregersen Chris N. , Berge Hans B. , Hawkins Denise K.
Published: May 2017

We conducted field experiments in the nearshore area of two urban lakes (Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish) in western Washington to test the attractive quality of artificial nighttime lighting to subyearling salmonids Oncorhynchus spp. In both lakes, experimental trials were conducted along a uniform 156‐m shoreline section twice a month (one night with lights and one control night without lights) from March to May to correspond with peak nearshore rearing of subyearling salmonids. We examined the effects of three light intensities on nearshore fish abundance: (1) no light, (2) dim light (maximum, 5.0 lx), and (3) bright light (maximum, 50.0 lx). These were compared with abundances from control nights without light treatments. Beach seining was used to determine fish abundance. For each month, the total number of subyearling salmonids (Chinook Salmon O. tshawytscha, Coho Salmon O. kisutch, and Sockeye Salmon O. nerka combined) was greater on the lighted nights (all treatments combined) than it was on the control nights. In both lakes, the most subyearling salmonids were collected in the bright‐light treatments, an intermediate amount in the dim‐light treatments, and few in the no‐light treatments. In some instances, subyearling salmonid abundances in the bright‐light treatments were more than 10 times greater than in the no‐light treatments. The effect of nighttime artificial lighting was generally more pronounced in March than in April or May. The results support our hypothesis that subyearling salmonids exhibit nocturnal phototaxic behavior when exposed to elevated nighttime lighting. A major concern of artificial nighttime lighting for subyearling salmonids is the potential for an increased predation risk, and we believe the prudent management goal would be to minimize artificial nighttime lighting.

Received October 23, 2016; accepted March 7, 2017 Published online May 26, 2017
A novel constitutive model for Ti–6Al–4V alloy based on dislocation pile-up theory
Authors: Zhou Tianfeng , Wu Junjie , Liang Zhiqiang , Che Jiangtao , Zhang Yichuan , Wang Xibin
Published: May 2017

The mechanical properties of the titanium alloy Ti–6Al–4V, which vary with the specimen size under different temperatures, are studied through the Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) test and the quasi-static tensile test to determine the parameters for the classical Johnson-Cook (JC) constitutive model. Based on the dislocation pile-up theory, the classical JC constitutive model is modified by adding a grain strain term Δ σ to consider the influence of grain size. The SHPB and tensile tests are analysed using a finite element method simulation. Compared with the experimental results, the simulation results based on the modified JC model exhibit a much higher calculation accuracy than that of the classical JC model.
Breakup of texture alignment and reduction of roping in AA6111 aluminium alloy
Authors: Jin H.
Published: May 2017

The evolution of crystallographic texture in AA6111 automotive aluminium alloy during thermo-mechanical sheet processing has been investigated. It was confirmed that the formation of a band-like structure of {001}<100> and {011}<100> textures is the determining factor for roping, while the roping level is controlled by the length of the alignment. The texture is cumulatively developed through the entire rolling process, but can be significantly shortened by an intermediate batch anneal. During annealing, the band-like structure is broken by the nucleation and growth of other orientations. Intermediate annealing also coarsens intermetallic particles, which reduces any particle pinning effects and promotes particle stimulated nucleation during the final solutionising treatment, leading to a randomised texture, which minimises roping in the final T4 temper.
A novel community driven software for functional enrichment analysis of extracellular vesicles data
Authors: Pathan Mohashin , Keerthikumar Shivakumar , Chisanga David , Alessandro Riccardo , Ang Ching‐Seng , Askenase Philip , Batagov Arsen O. , Benito‐Martin Alberto , Camussi Giovanni , Clayton Aled , Collino Federica , Di Vizio Dolores , Falcon‐Perez Juan Manuel , Fonseca Pedro , Fonseka Pamali , Fontana Simona , Gho Yong Song , Hendrix An , Hoen Esther Nolte‐'t , Iraci Nunzio , Kastaniegaard Kenneth , Kislinger Thomas , Kowal Joanna , Kurochkin Igor V. , Leonardi Tommaso , Liang Yaxuan , Llorente Alicia , Lunavat Taral R. , Maji Sayantan , Monteleone Francesca , Øverbye Anders , Panaretakis Theocharis , Patel Tushar , Peinado Héctor , Pluchino Stefano , Principe Simona , Ronquist Goran , Royo Felix , Sahoo Susmita , Spinelli Cristiana , Stensballe Allan , Théry Clotilde , van Herwijnen Martijn J.C. , Wauben Marca , Welton Joanne L. , Zhao Kening , Mathivanan Suresh
Published: May 2017

Bioinformatics tools are imperative for the in depth analysis of heterogeneous high‐throughput data. Most of the software tools are developed by specific laboratories or groups or companies wherein they are designed to perform the required analysis for the group. However, such software tools may fail to capture “what the community needs in a tool”. Here, we describe a novel community‐driven approach to build a comprehensive functional enrichment analysis tool. Using the existing FunRich tool as a template, we invited researchers to request additional features and/or changes. Remarkably, with the enthusiastic participation of the community, we were able to implement 90% of the requested features. FunRich enables plugin for extracellular vesicles wherein users can download and analyse data from Vesiclepedia database. By involving researchers early through community needs software development, we believe that comprehensive analysis tools can be developed in various scientific disciplines.
Chiral ligands designed in China
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Li Wenbo , Zhang Junliang
Published: May 2017

Asymmetric catalysis has become an indispensable and productive field within the Chinese organic chemistry society. The design of chiral ligands is one of the most prominent research areas in this field. Since the late 1990s, Chinese organic chemists have developed numerous chiral ligands possessing novel chiral skeletons and design concepts. Some of these ligands have been widely adopted and can be regarded as ‘privileged ligand’, which have shown excellent performance in many asymmetric catalytic reactions. In this review, we provide an overview of the chiral ligands designed by Chinese scientists with the aim of promoting the development of this area in China and with the hope of encouraging more scientists across the world to use these ligands when designing asymmetric reactions.
Testing Familial Transmission of Smoking With Two Different Research Designs
Authors: Treur Jorien L , Verweij Karin J H , Abdellaoui Abdel , Fedko Iryna O , de Zeeuw Eveline L , Ehli Erik A , Davies Gareth E , Hottenga Jouke-Jan , Willemsen Gonneke , Boomsma Dorret I , Vink Jacqueline M
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Classical twin studies show that smoking is heritable. To determine if shared family environment plays a role in addition to genetic factors, and if they interact (G×E), we use a children-of-twins design. In a second sample, we measure genetic influence with polygenic risk scores (PRS) and environmental influence with a question on exposure to smoking during childhood.

Methods

Data on smoking initiation were available for 723 children of 712 twins from the Netherlands Twin Register (64.9% female, median birth year 1985). Children were grouped in ascending order of risk, based on smoking status and zygosity of their twin-parent and his/her co-twin: never smoking twin-parent with a never smoking co-twin; never smoking twin-parent with a smoking dizygotic co-twin; never smoking twin-parent with a smoking monozygotic co-twin; and smoking twin-parent with a smoking or never smoking co-twin. For 4072 participants from the Netherlands Twin Register (67.3% female, median birth year 1973), PRS for smoking were computed and smoking initiation, smoking heaviness, and exposure to smoking during childhood were available.

Results

Patterns of smoking initiation in the four group children-of-twins design suggested shared familial influences in addition to genetic factors. PRS for ever smoking were associated with smoking initiation in all individuals. PRS for smoking heaviness were associated with smoking heaviness in individuals exposed to smoking during childhood, but not in non-exposed individuals.

Conclusions

Shared family environment influences smoking, over and above genetic factors. Genetic risk of smoking heaviness was only important for individuals exposed to smoking during childhood, versus those not exposed (G×E).

Implications

This study adds to the very few existing children-of-twins (CoT) studies on smoking and combines a CoT design with a second research design that utilizes polygenic risk scores and data on exposure to smoking during childhood. The results show that shared family environment affects smoking behavior over and above genetic factors. There was also evidence for gene–environment interaction (G×E) such that genetic risk of heavy versus light smoking was only important for individuals who were also exposed to (second-hand) smoking during childhood. Together, these findings give additional incentive to recommending parents not to expose their children to cigarette smoking.
The Benefits of Forced Experimentation: Striking Evidence from the London Underground Network*
Authors: Larcom Shaun , Rauch Ferdinand , Willems Tim
Published: May 2017

We present evidence that a significant fraction of commuters on the London Underground do not travel on their optimal route. We show that a strike on the Underground, which forced many commuters to experiment with new routes, brought lasting changes in behavior. This effect is stronger for commuters who live in areas where the Underground map is more distorted, which points to the importance of informational imperfections. Information resulting from the strike improved network efficiency. Search costs alone are unlikely to explain the suboptimal behavior.
Relationship Between Grain, Semolina, and Whole Wheat Flour Properties and the Physical and Cooking Qualities of Whole Wheat Spaghetti
Authors: Deng Lingzhu , Elias Elias M. , Manthey Frank A.
Published: May 2017

Durum breeding programs need to identify raw material traits capable of predicting whole wheat spaghetti quality. Nineteen durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) cultivars and 17 breeding lines were collected from 19 different environments in North Dakota and were evaluated for physical and cooking qualities of whole wheat spaghetti. Raw material traits evaluated included grain, semolina, and whole wheat flour characteristics. Similar to traditional spaghetti, grain protein content had a significant positive correlation with cooking quality of whole wheat spaghetti. Stepwise multiple regressions showed grain protein content, mixogram break time, and wet gluten were the predominant characteristics in predicting cooked firmness of whole wheat spaghetti.
Distal Junctional Failure Following Pediatric Spinal Fusion
Authors: Floccari Lorena V. , Su Alvin W. , McIntosh Amy L. , Rathjen Karl , Shaughnessy William J. , Larson A. Noelle
Published: May 2017

Background:

Adjacent segment pathology is a known complication after spinal fusion, but little has been reported on junctional failure. A series of adolescent patients presented with acute distal junctional failure (DJF). We sought to determine any common features of these patients to develop a prevention strategy.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted of pediatric patients who developed DJF after instrumented spinal fusion performed at 2 institutions from 1999 to 2013. Patients with proximal junctional failure or junctional kyphosis without failure were excluded.

Results:

Fifteen subjects were identified with mean follow-up of 38 months. Distal failure occurred a mean of 60 days after index surgery, with history of minor trauma in 4 patients. Failures included 3-column Chance fracture (11) or instrumentation failure (4). Thirteen patients presented with back pain and/or acute kyphosis, whereas 2 asymptomatic patients presented with healed fractures. Two patients also developed new onset of severe lower extremity neurological deficit after fracture, which improved but never resolved after revision. A total of 13/15 subjects required revision surgery, typically within 1 week. Complications associated with revision surgery were encountered in 8 patients (62%). Major complications that required return to the operating room included 2 deep infections, 2 instrumentation failures, and dense lower extremity paralysis that improved after medial screw revision and decompression. At final follow-up, 10 patients are asymptomatic, 2 have persistent neurological deficit, 2 have chronic pain, and 1 has altered gait with gait aid requirement.

Conclusions:

This study analyzes a heterogenous cohort of spinal fusion patients who developed DJF from 3-column Chance fracture or instrumentation failure. Revision surgery is typically required, but has a high complication rate and can result in severe neurological deficit, highlighting the morbidity of this complication. It is unclear whether level of the lowest instrumented vertebra contributes to DJF. Increased awareness of junctional failure in children may prompt additional studies to further characterize risk factors and preventative strategies.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—study-type case series.
Perforator Flaps Covering Alloplastic Materials in Full-Thickness Chest Wall Defects Reconstruction: A Safe Option?
Authors: Aubá Cristina , Cabello Álvaro , García-Tutor Emilio , Vila Antonio , Qiu Shan Shan , Torre Wenceslao
Published: May 2017

Large full-thickness chest wall reconstruction requires an alloplastic material to ensure chest wall stability, as well as a flap that provides good soft-tissue coverage. The choice not to use perforator flaps over any mesh or inert material is often based on the concern that the vascularization would be inadequate. However, perforator flaps have shown good results in several reconstructive fields, minimizing donor-site morbidity and offering versatility when local tissues are unavailable or affected by radiotherapy. In this study, we present 4 cases of patients with full-thickness chest wall defects that were repaired with a double Marlex mesh, acrylic cement (n = 2) or a double patch of Goretex (n = 2) in combination with perforator flaps (3 deep inferior epigastric artery perforators and 1 lumbar artery perforator flap). The results we obtained are encouraging, and we believe the use of perforator flaps in combination with alloplastic materials should be considered as a reliable option for full-thickness chest wall defect reconstruction.
A Quadrangular Flap Technique for Vermilion Repair in Unilateral Cleft Lip
Authors: Masuoka Hiromu
Published: May 2017

In unilateral cleft lip repair, the vermilion triangular flap technique reported by Noordhoff
1
and its modification are widely accepted for the augmentation of the vermilion height on the medial side of the cleft; however, these techniques do not focus on the deformity of the labial tubercle. In this article, we herein report a modified technique for vermilion repair that is focused on the labial tubercle. The muco-vermilion quadrangular flap was elevated from the lateral lip to augment the labial tubercle. As a result, the amount of labial tubercle is appropriate. Fifty-three consecutive unilateral cleft lip repairs were performed. In most cases, the amount of the labial tubercle was appropriate, and the curvature of free margin was preferable. The technique could reduce the number of scars on the vermilion by placing some of the suture lines on the oral surface and enabled the augmentation of the labial tubercle. In conclusion, the quadrangular flap can be considered an ideal flap for the construction of the vermilion.
The Use of Rapid Deployment Valves in Combined Aortic and Mitral Valve Surgery
Authors: Schlömicher Markus , Bechtel Matthias , Taghiyev Zulfugar , Al-Jabery Yazan , Lukas Haldenwang Peter , Moustafine Vadim , Thomas Strauch Justus
Published: May 2017

Objective

Patients undergoing multiple valve surgery represent a high-risk group who could potentially benefit from a reduction of cross-clamp and cardiopulmonary bypass times because prolonged bypass and cross-clamp times are considered independent risk factors for increased morbidity and mortality after cardiac surgery.

Methods

Between July 2013 and November 2014, 16 patients underwent rapid deployment aortic valve replacement with the EDWARDS INTUITY valve system in the setting of concomitant mitral disease. Fifteen patients showed mitral regurgitation, whereas one patient had severe mitral stenosis. Fourteen patients received mitral valve repair and two patients received biological mitral valve replacement. Tricuspid valve repair was performed additionally in two patients. The mean ± SD age was 72.8 ± 8.4 years, and the mean ± SD logistic EuroSCORE II is 8.7% ± 3.4%.

Results

Within a 30-day perioperative period, no patient was lost (n = 0). The mean ± SD follow-up time was 11 ± 2 months. At 1 year, the overall survival was 81% (n = 13). A mean ± SD transaortic gradient of 10.7 ± 2.3 mm Hg and a mean ± SD effective orifice area of 1.7 ± 0.3 cm2 were measured echocardiographically. No higher-grade paravalvular leak (aortic insufficiency > 1+) occurred. Eight patients (61%) had no residual mitral regurgitation, four patients (30%) showed trivial regurgitation (1/4), and one patient (7.3%) had moderate mitral regurgitation (2/4). No interference of the subannular stent frame with the reconstructed valve or the biological mitral prosthesis was seen.

Conclusions

Rapid deployment aortic valve replacement with the EDWARDS INTUITY valve system in combined aortic and mitral valve surgery can be performed safely with reproducible results. One-year follow-up data of this small series shows encouraging results potentially justifying the extension of the indication for rapid deployment valves to patients with concomitant mitral disease. Especially elderly patients undergoing multiple valve surgery may benefit from a reduction of cardiopulmonary bypass and myocardial ischemic times.
Hybrid Coronary Revascularization Has Improved Short-Term Outcomes but Worse Mid-Term Reintervention Rates Compared to Cabg
Authors: Xia Yu , Katz Abraham N. , Forest Stephen J. , Pyo Robert T. , Greenberg Mark A. , DeRose Joseph J.
Published: May 2017

Objective

We evaluated short-term outcomes and mid-term survival and reintervention of hybrid coronary revascularization versus conventional coronary artery bypass grafting using a propensity score matched cohort.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of patients undergoing surgery for multivessel coronary artery disease from 2007 to 2015 at a single institution. Patients were propensity matched 1:1 to receiving hybrid coronary revascularization or conventional bypass grafting by multivariate logistic regression on preoperative characteristics. Short-term outcomes were compared. Freedom from reintervention and death were assessed by Kaplan-Meier analysis, log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

Propensity score matching selected 91 patients per group from 91 hybrid and 2601 conventionally revascularized patients. Hybrid revascularization occurred with surgery first in 56 (62%), percutaneous intervention first in 32 (35%), and simultaneously in 3 (3%) patients. Median intervals between interventions were 3 and 36 days for surgery first and percutaneous intervention first, respectively. Preoperative characteristics were similar. Patients undergoing hybrid revascularization had shorter postoperative length of stay (median = 4 vs 5 days, P < 0.001), less postoperative transfusion (13.2% vs 34.1%, P = 0.001), and respiratory failure (0% vs 6.6%, P = 0.03). They were more likely to be discharged home (93.4% vs 71.4%, P < 0.001), with no difference in 30-day mortality ( P = 0.99), readmission ( P = 0.23), or mid-term survival ( P = 0.79). Hybrid revascularization was associated with earlier reintervention ( P = 0.02). Hazard ratios for reintervention and patient mortality of hybrid coronary revascularization versus conventional revascularization were 3.60 (95% confidence interval = 1.16–11.20) and 1.17 (95% confidence interval = 0.37–3.72), respectively.

Conclusions

Despite having favorable short-term outcomes and similar survival, hybrid coronary revascularization may be associated with earlier reintervention compared with conventional techniques.
A Contemporary Approach to Reoperative Aortic Valve Surgery
Authors: Smith Deane E. , Koeckert Michael S. , Vining Patrick F. , Zias Elias A. , Grossi Eugene A. , Galloway Aubrey C.
Published: May 2017

Objective

Although the benefits of minimally invasive valvular surgery are well established, the applicability of extending these techniques to reoperative aortic valve surgery is unknown. We evaluated our experience with a minimally invasive approach to this patient population.

Methods

From January 2010 to September 2015, 21 patients underwent reoperative isolated aortic valve replacement via a minimally invasive approach by a single surgeon. All patients had preoperative evaluation with computerized tomography and coronary catheterization. Surgical approaches were right anterior thoracotomy (6/21) or upper hemisternotomy (15/21). Central aortic cannulation was preferred with femoral artery cannulation used in four patients (19%). In patients with left internal mammary artery (LIMA) grafts, no attempt to dissect or occlude the graft was made. Cold blood cardioplegia was administered antegrade (12/21) or retrograde (9/21); systemic cooling with a mean low temperature of 27.5 °C was employed.

Results

Mean age was 75.1 years with a range from 33 to 92 years, and 67% (14/21) were male. All procedures were completed with a minimally invasive approach. Mean ± SD cross-clamp time was 51.5 ± 9.2 minutes. Fourteen patients had patent LIMA grafts. No aortic, LIMA, or cardiac injuries occurred. There were no hospital deaths nor occurrences of perioperative myocardial infarction, stroke, wound infection, renal failure, or endocarditis/sepsis. One patient required a reoperation for bleeding. Sixty-two percent of patients were discharged to home; mean ± SD length of stay was 6 ± 3 days.

Conclusions

With appropriate preoperative evaluation and careful surgical planning, a minimally invasive approach to reoperative aortic valve surgery can be performed in a safe and effective manner.
Comparative Study of Functional Grasp and Efficiency Between a 3D-Printed and Commercial Myoelectric Transradial Prosthesis Using Able-Bodied Subjects: A Pilot Study
Authors: Duong Tuan , Wagner Brandon , Abraham Tobin , Davidson Michael , Bains Gurinder , Daher Noha , Friedrich Alec
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Upper-limb amputations make up 10% to 20% of the total amputations in the United States. Of the two million individuals currently living with limb loss, 30% to 50% do not wear their prosthesis regularly. This is a result of lack of education, lack of training, discomfort, poor cosmetics, and cost. Three-dimensional (3D) printing may provide a cost-effective alternative for upper-limb prostheses. The purpose of this pilot study was to test and compare efficiency and functional capabilities of a 3D-printed and commercially available manufactured myoelectric hand.

Materials and Methods

The research team designed a quasi-experimental, static group comparison trial. A box and blocks test was used to assess the efficiency of the i-limb and Limbitless Arm. The two prosthetic hands were tested over two visits with a 2-week crossover period. Two custom devices, to which the two hands attach distally, were created to accommodate the able-bodied subjects.

Results

Twenty-four able-bodied (mean age, 26.1 ± 4.2 yrs), healthy, right-hand–dominant participants were recruited for this study. There were 14 men and 10 women. The mean number of blocks using the Limbitless Arm was significantly lower than the i-limb. For trial 1, the mean was 8.4 ± 3.6 versus 12.9 ± 3.3 (P < 0.001). For trial 2, the mean was 8.3 ± 3.6 versus 13.8 ± 4.1 (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the mean number of blocks improved when using the i-limb versus the 3D-printed hand by 53.6% in trial 1 and 66.3% in trial 2. Similar findings were obtained when we ran the analyses separately for men (trial 1, the mean was 9.1 ± 3.3 vs. 12.9 ± 3.7, P = 0.01 and trial 2, the mean was 9.6 ± 3.2 vs. 14.1 ± 4.7, P = 0.02) and women (trial 1, the mean 7.5 ± 3.9 vs. 12.8 ± 2.9, P = 0.00 and trial 2, the mean 6.3 ± 3.4 vs. 13.4 ± 3.2, P = 0.00).

Conclusions

The results and observations made by the researchers suggested the i-limb was more efficient than the Limbitless Arm. There is a potential for 3D-printed prostheses to be a viable option for prosthetic care in the future with better development and technological advancements. However, at this point, myoelectric prostheses such as the i-limb are more practical and effective.
Technique for Perforating a Prosthetic Liner to Expel Sweat
Authors: Caldwell Ryan , Fatone Stefania
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Sweating and moisture buildup are caused by the insulative nature of prosthetic interface materials increasing the temperature of the residual limb. Hence, heat and sweating in the socket are among the most frequently reported problems that reduce quality of life for persons with amputation. The purpose of this technical note was to describe a simple, inexpensive technique for perforating a silicone prosthetic liner to expel sweat and enhance use of a lower-limb prosthesis.

Materials and Methods

A liner holder consisting of a towel and socks layered over a mandrel to mimic the distal liner shape was made to stabilize the liner during the perforation process. With the liner placed over the holder such that the exterior surface was exposed, a perforating roller was used to perforate the distal end of the liner. When the liner was inverted, the holes were visible all the way through to the inner surface of the liner.

Results

Expulsion of sweat through the perforations was demonstrated by pouring water into the liner, folding the proximal, open end of the liner to create a seal, and forcing water droplets to escape the perforations with some resistance. Additional evidence that water escaped was seen by the wet patches that formed on the exterior fabric of the perforated liner after active wear. One user with amputation described sweat being pumped out of the perforated liner into the socket and in some cases out of the socket through the air relief valve of the vacuum pump. Another user with amputation indicated that the perforations did not damage the skin and reduced slippage of the liner with respect to the limb.

Conclusions

Initial clinical experience with this technique suggested that expulsion of sweat occurred and user feedback indicated improved prosthesis use as a result. Current experience using this technique in clinical practice has been limited to silicone liners. The long-term effects of perforations on liner durability or limb health are not yet known.
Spinal and Pelvic Kinematics During Gait in People with Lower-Limb Amputation, with and without Low Back Pain: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Devan Hemakumar , Dillon Michael P. , Carman Allan B. , Hendrick Paul , Hale Leigh , Boocock Mark , Ribeiro Daniel Cury
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Despite the high prevalence of chronic low back pain (LBP) in people with lower-limb amputation, it is not clear whether there are differences in spinal and pelvic motion in individuals with and without LBP. This exploratory study aimed to describe the spinal and pelvic kinematics during gait in people with transfemoral amputation (TFA) and transtibial amputation (TTA), with and without LBP.

Methods

Eighteen participants with traumatic amputation (6 TFA, 12 TTA) were grouped according to their amputation level and presence (or absence) of LBP. Three-dimensional thoracic, lumbar, and pelvic kinematics during walking were reported to identify movement patterns that may be indicative of LBP.

Results

The TFA-LBP group elevated the pelvis on the intact side and minimized lumbar lateral flexion to achieve the same trunk lateral flexion angle (Trendelenburg gait) as those with TFA-No LBP. Those with TFA-LBP kept the lumbar spine rotated toward the prosthetic limb throughout the gait cycle. There were no differences in the spinal and pelvic kinematics of people with TTA-LBP and TTA-No LBP.

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary evidence of differences in spinal and pelvic kinematics that may be associated with LBP in people with TFA.