In addition, the GRM-based interface between electrode and dielectric can have an effect on atomic diffusion limitation in dielectric and surface effect suppression. Immense amounts of concrete research indicate that GRMs might play a significant role in promoting the large-scale commercialization possibility of RRAM devices.Resistive random access memory (RRAM), which is considered as one of the most promising next-generation non-volatile memory (NVM) devices and a representative of memristor technologies, demonstrated great potential in acting as an artificial synapse in the industry of neuromorphic systems and artificial intelligence (AI), due its advantages such as fast operation speed, low power consumption, and high device density. Graphene and related materials (GRMs), especially graphene oxide (GO), acting as active materials for RRAM devices, are considered as a promising alternative to other materials including metal oxides and perovskite materials. Herein, an overview of GRM-based RRAM devices is provided, with discussion about the properties of GRMs, main operation mechanisms for resistive switching (RS) behavior, figure of merit (FoM) summary, and prospect extension of GRM-based RRAM devices. With excellent physical and chemical advantages like intrinsic Young’s modulus (1.0 TPa), good tensile strength (130 GPa), excellent carrier mobility (2.0 × 10 With the popularization of information technologies, digital problems with increasing amounts of data are receiving considerable attention in the industry. Until 2020, the digital world is expected to be over 40 zettabytes  with continuous expansion . The rapx, TiOx, TaOx, and NiOx) [2 and WS2) [Currently, with the rapid development of solid-state devices and their excellent combination with emerging NVM technologies, impressive achievements of emerging NVM devices such as FeRAM, PCM, MRAM, RRAM, and STT-RAM were made due to the continuous improvement of fabrication processes, as well as through the performance of enhanced devices stimulated by the application of new materials at the nanoscale ,13,14,15nd NiOx) ,17,18,19nd NiOx) , chalcogand WS2) ,22, orgaand WS2) ,24, and and WS2) ,26,27. Iand WS2) ,29. In tThe aim of this work is to provide a comprehensive overview of the state of the most significant advancements of graphene-based memristive devices. A brief introduction of the basic properties and synthesis methodologies of graphene-based materials (mainly graphene and GO) is presented in 5 cm2∙V−1∙s−1) [−1∙K−1) and electrical conductivity (1.0 × 106 S∙m−1) [During the fabrication and operation processes of electronic devices, the inherent properties of available materials receive paramount attention ,32. As oV−1∙s−1) , and hig6 S∙m−1) ,37 make 6 S∙m−1) ,39, sens6 S∙m−1) ,41, ener6 S∙m−1) ,43, and 6 S∙m−1) . 3 on/off ratio [Apart from the properties of graphene and cost consideration, memory devices developed with high-quality materials, a sophisticated nano-fabrication process, and sufficient prediction may demonstrate enhanced performance. However, in practice, a tradeoff among device performance, nano-scale fabrication process, and suitable cost is necessary, which indicates that it is essential to investigate novel memories that are adaptable to modern electronics. As the most representative category among 2D materials, graphene and related materials (GRMs) are expected to promising materials for the development of modern NVM devices due to their intriguing physical and chemical properties. For instance, the high mobility of graphene may contribute to faster operation speeds and lower operation times for NVM devices; the atomically thick structure of graphene can be helpful to realize the compact integration density of single devices; the solution-processable compatibility of graphene improves the successful probability of flexible memory devices with lower cost and a simpler fabrication method. Based on these considerations, GRM application for NVM devices with properties of higher density, faster operation speed, and lower energy consumption is receiving increasing interest. Hong et al. demonstrated a silicon (Si)-based flash memory device with graphene as a floating gate, which presented a wide operation window and low cell-to-cell interference with low operation voltage . Qi and ff ratio . These r2-based composites, which presented excellent performance in the application of memristive devices, similar to that using graphene-based materials [It is over 10 years since Geim and Novoselov firstly found a way to fabricate graphite thin flakes, and several processes for the synthesis of graphene-based materials are mainly investigated using thin films. In general, it is easy to complete the deposition of a graphene monolayer onto a metal substrate, and the progress of this approach demonstrates the great potential of large-area single crystals ,46,47,48aterials .−1, and hole mobility of 233 cm2∙V−1∙s−1 for a single sheet [As typical conventional deposition methods, CVD and ALD are not only used to grow graphene, as well as multicomponent heterostructures of II–VI, III–V, and oxide materials, but they are also applied to the production of large-scale hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) and two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D-TMD) ,60. Currle sheet ,76,77,78In order to produce memory devices with smaller cell size, faster operation speed, lower power consumption, and lower fabrication cost, an FoM assessment of memory devices is always the priority ,80. AparThe random-access time of a single-memory cell and the effective time of write/erase operation performance (latency) are used to determine the operation speed of memory devices. For now, high-performance volatile memory devices, such as SRAM and DRAM, are commonly used in processors, which perform short latencies (<100 ns), but are more expensive and occupy larger chip areas as compared to silicon flash memories ,82. AlthWrite endurance and data retention properties are considered as main characteristics of NVM device reliability. Write endurance is the quantized behavior of the anti-fatigue-degradation characteristic of a single NVM device, which is determined as the highest number of write/erase cycles that can be operated before the NVM cell fails to be reliable. The endurance also demonstrates the number of sustained cycles of the device before reaching the breakdown state ,85. DataDevice power consumption is made up of static power dissipation and dynamic power consumption. Static power dissipation mainly results from the aging process of storage hardware, and the main source of dynamic power consumption is memory data transition ,91,92,932 (F is the technology feature size). For now, the novel program of a semiconductor product with over 64 stacking layers of memory was realized on one microchip, which presents a high bit density of 0.5 GB/mm2 [In order to achieve a memory device with excellent performance, the scalability of the memory cell is receiving more and more attention due to the increasing density of memory devices, which indicates that the memory cell must be scaled. Apart from processing problems introduced by device scaling, another limitation factor, i.e., cross-talk between neighboring cells, cannot be neglected ,96. Typi5 GB/mm2 ,98, whicIn order to determine the commercial feasibility of a product program, during the manufacture of one memory chip with NVM technology, the cost of related materials, the fabrication process, and the integrated system should receive enough consideration. With the development of future semiconductors in the industry, the acceptable cost of a memory device will depend on target applications in terms of embedded hardware design, low-power-consumption environment, high speed, and high capacitor demand ,100. As one of the most promising non-volatile memory devices, the memristor demonstrates great potential in terms of enhanced reliability, fast operation speed, lower power consumption, and lower market cost, which can be observed in ν), current (i), magnetic flux (φ), and charge (q) [ν and i, the capacitor is the connection between ν and q, and the inductor links φ and i. Therefore, in general, the memristor can be used to define the connection between φ and q. To be more precise, the definition of a memristor is related to not only the flux as a magnetic magnitude but also the mathematical magnitude corresponding to the time-integral of the voltage across the device [Chua proposed the existence of another two-terminal component in the circuit, in addition to the resistor, capacitor, and inductor, which operated on the basis of a relationship among voltage (arge (q) . The rese device ,104,106.x, AlOx, and NiOx) [3NH3PbI3 and CsPbBr3) [With the development of memristor research for about half a century, RRAM devices received considerable attention as the most typical memristor. Apart from research on device performance, recent research was directed toward the study of materials with resistive switching (RS) function, such as binary transition metal oxides (TiOnd NiOx) ,110,111,CsPbBr3) ,55,112, CsPbBr3) , biologiCsPbBr3) ,115, andCsPbBr3) ,116. SET and VRESET. In general, two different switching types are defined as unipolar and bipolar [RRAM devices fabricated with a typical MIM  sandwich structure are electrically characterized with two different resistance states, which are generally referred to as the high-resistance state (HRS) and low-resistance state (LRS). The high-resistance value of the device shows the low-conductance state, while the device demonstrates the high-conductance state with the low-resistance value. The on/off ratio is determined by the ratio between HRS and LRS. With the applied voltage bias, the set operation is defined from HRS to LRS, and the reset operation is the transition from LRS to HRS. Stop voltages of the set and reset process are defined as V bipolar ,110,111,− and H+ absorbed on the SiO2/Si substrate induced a chemical modification in the crystal structure of graphene. Bruck et al. reported a graphene-dielectric-layer-based RRAM device with an on/off ratio of ~100 and switching time of ~100 us in 2008, as illustrated in 7) and faster switching speed (~1 us) [In general, graphene and its derivatives are investigated as resistive switching (RS) and electrode materials in RRAM devices. Exfoliated graphene sheets with RS performance in a field-effect transistor (FET) were reported by Tsang and Delgado-Notario et al. ,118,119. (~1 us) . GO can  (~1 us) ,122,123. (~1 us) ,127,128.3 at ~1 V operation voltage and rewritable memory performance with stable resistance states for more than 108 s [3. The write and read cycles could be repeatedly performed in excess of 1000 cycles, and the data sustainment time was beyond 104 s [3, and retention time sustained over 700 s [In addition, various groups investigated graphene-based composite materials, such as combinations of GO/rGO (reduced GO) with polymers, small molecules, and metal nanoparticles (NPs). An Al/TPAPAM-GO/ITO device was proposed by Zhuang et al. . An arylan 108 s . Jin et an 108 s  reportednd 104 s . Cui et nd 104 s  proposeder 700 s . In geneM) of TE and BE [M of Pt is ~5.65 eV, while the фM of Au, Ti, Ag, and Cu is ~5.1 eV, ~4.33 eV, ~4.26 eV, and ~4.65 eV, respectively. The existence of a work function difference (ΔфM) between TE and BE, namely, an asymmetric work function between active and inert electrode, results in the appearance of RS performance in these GO-based RRAM devices [M of ITO is ~4.9 eV, which is very close to the фM of metal Au. Therefore, no effective RS performance can be observed in Au/GO/ITO structure devices [M between Al and Pt is higher than 1.0 eV, successful RS behavior cannot be observed in Al/GO/Pt RRAM devices. However, as illustrated in M exhibit enhanced RS performance. Compared with metals like Au, Ag, and Cu, local oxidation is more likely to occur on Al electrodes at the interface, which might be a decisive influence factor explaining its unique performance [For RRAM devices with a GO-based MIM structure, the choice of top electrode (TE) and bottom electrode (BE) materials always receives the most attention. E and BE ,121,131. devices ,131,132. devices ,133. It formance , the worApart from the choice of TE and BE, other features like surface roughness and obtained thickness of the GO dielectric layer cannot be neglected, as illustrated in Several studies reported that the main reason for RS performance in dielectric layers based on graphene and its derivatives, especially GO layers, is the diffusion of oxygen ions or vacancies ,138,139.x layer acts as an insulating layer and influences the HRS. With the applied negative voltage bias, electrical-field-induced oxygen ions diffuse into the GO layer, which forms local conductive filaments (CFs), resulting in the device switching into the LRS. However, ohmic conduction did not occur at the LRS due to the GO film transforming into an sp3-bonded state without CFs [In 2010, as one of the first examples focused on the oxygen ion-based switching mechanism of graphene-based memory devices, Kim et al. proposed Al/GO/Al crossbar memory on flexible substrate . As illuhout CFs .sp3 hybridization layer between Al and the structure-modified GO layers at the HRS. When a negative voltage bias is applied onto the TE Al layer, the reverse diffusion of oxygen ions leads to LRS CFs near the contact interface under the effect of a negative electrical field [One year later, Panin et al. also reported a device with an Al/GO/Al structure, which presented the importance of local resistance state induced by the contact of Al and GO layers . With thal field . According to a report from Wang et al. , the difApart from the switching mechanism based on oxygen ion diffusion, a metal filament-based mechanism was also used to explain the RS behavior of graphene-based RRAM devices, which mainly depends on electrode materials ,146,147.sp2 cluster density in the switching layer. A simulation program with integrated circuit emphasis (SPICE) model incorporating the proposed compact model was developed for parameter calibration. Firstly, they provided the transport mechanism in GO-RRAM based on hybridization state modulation, as illustrated in sp3 matrix isolates these graphene-like clusters, which introduces a high tunneling barrier and substantially limits the electron tunneling probability between the sp2 clusters. The initial resistance of GO-RRAM is determined by the sp2 clusters. The increasing sp2 density induced by oxygen functional group reduction results in hopping paths for the electron, which completes the set operation (HRS to LRS) [sp2 clusters are hybridized into sp3 bonding, which reduces the sp2 density and switches the device back into the HRS. Acting like intermediate traps, sp2 clusters support continuous electron flow, which can be explored via a multi-phonon trap-assisted tunneling (MTAT) mechanism [In addition to the two main switching mechanisms discussed above, a mechanism affected by GO-based bulk was also investigated. It is worth mentioning that Wah et al. presented a compact model of hybridization state modulation for GO-RRAM, which is one of the most effective explanations for the bulk mechanism ,149,150. to LRS) . Conversechanism . Figure echanism ,151. A sechanism , whose w2/Pt RRAM device with an SLG interlayer [2 layer was fabricated by ALD, and the SLG layer was transferred onto the RS layer with oxygen plasma etching. The inserted SLG layer increased the resistance value at LRS (>1 MΩ) of the HfO2-based RRAM device due to its high out-of-plane resistance, which reduced the reset current 22-fold while decreasing the programming power consumption 47-fold. With the measurement results from Raman mapping illustrated in In addition, some other research teams aimed at an investigation of the contacting relationship between the GRM layer and electrode layer or other RS layers, mainly related to single-layer graphene (SLG) or multi-layer graphene (MLG) interlayers applied in RRAM devices with metal–oxide (M–O) thin films ,155,156.terlayer . The HfOAs one of most representative and competitive graphene-based materials, GO received considerable attention in the industry of large-area flexible electronic devices due to its promising potential for next-generation information storage ,162,163.According to the statistical results from 4 s, and the endurance cycles were more than 110. In addition, with the pulse behavior measurement, they also found that the resistance state switching from LRS to HRS could appear with a 100-ns pulse width, while the switching process from HRS to LRS could only be achieved with a 100-μs pulse width [Wang et al. reported a GO-RRAM device with the structure of Al/GO/ITO/PET, as illustrated in se width . 4 solution were homogenized into the PVA solution. With a series of chemical treatments, the hybrid thin film was spin-coated onto the ITO/PET substrate. The fabricated device demonstrated a bipolar RS performance with ~1-V operation voltage in the SET process and a ~103 on/off ratio. The resistance distribution result indicated that the device exhibited better performance when the resistance state switched to LRS [Another RRAM device based on an Al/rGO/ITO/flexible substrate with a combination of Au nanoparticles (Au NPs) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was reported by Midya et al. The Au/rGO/PVA dielectric layer was fabricated with a solution-processed method. In this work, in order to prevent Au NP coagulation, GO flakes fabricated via a modified Hummer’s method and HAuCld to LRS . 3), which indicated that the 30-nm-thick GO thin film might be an optimistic choice for their investigation. It is noted that the fabricated flexible GO memory device with 30 nm thickness demonstrated excellent RS performance with no degradation, even when the substrate was bent down to 4-mm radius 1000 times [Apart from Wang and Midya et al., Hong et al. also reported a GO-RRAM device with the same structure, which was a transparent Al/GO/ITO device with a flexible PET substrate. Different GO dielectric layers with three thicknesses  were also fabricated with a spin-coating process, and the device exhibited enhanced performance with a high on/off ratio, low set/reset voltage, and excellent data retention. With the statistical results of GO thickness dependence on fabricated devices, an RRAM device with a 30-nm GO layer exhibited the lowest operation voltage (~2 V) and the highest on/off ratio , and long data retention time (~2000 s). The formation and the rupture of CFs based on metal ion diffusion near the interface layer between TE and dielectric layer were used to interpret their achievements [Liu et al. illustrated their research on an Al/GO/Al/PET structure RRAM device on PET substrate with a spin-coated GO dielectric layer , which sevements ,133,163.2 and h-BN) was also investigated in recent years [2 and GO, they fabricated an RRAM device with a Ti/MoS2-GO/ITO/PET structure. Due to the doping of MoS2, the device worked with a lower operation voltage (~0.3 V). Their bending test results showed that almost no changes in LRS and HRS could be observed during 200 switching cycles, even with 300 bending cycles, which indicated the enhanced reproducibility of RRAM devices [Apart from GO materials, a mixture of graphene-based materials and 2D materials (like MoSnt years ,190,191.nt years , with vi devices . The ele devices . We briefly reviewed recent advances in graphene-based materials used in NVM devices. Reliable systems based on memristors will be a vital technological application in the future development of neuromorphic networks and the AI industry, which are presented with a combined form of RRAM hardware devices and neuromorphic algorithms. Different devices based on graphene-materials mentioned in the recent literature exhibited good switching performance such as low power consumption, enhanced retention and endurance properties, large on/off ratio, and good compatibility with flexible substrates. Despite the great potential of graphene-based materials applied in NVM demonstrated in related research, some limitations cannot be neglected. Firstly, GO as the derivative of graphene was used extensively in electronic device research. The occurrence and organization of oxygen functionalities, the intrinsic variability of the GO material chemical structure, and the random distribution of GO flakes during the fabrication and deposition process directly influence the switching behavior of devices. Secondly, many current synthesis technologies of graphene-based materials are not only mature in the commercial market but also limit the development of large-scale production with good uniformity. Thirdly, the reliability performance of devices, in terms of retention and endurance measurements, needs to be evaluated and improved more accurately in order to meet real application demands in commercial products. In addition, although related switching mechanisms were proposed in the recent literature, definitive evidence in their support remains to be provided.


Chemical vapor deposition of graphene on transition metals is the most favored method to get large scale homogenous graphene films to date. However, this method involves a very critical step of transferring as grown graphene to desired substrates. A sacrificial polymer film is used to provide mechanical and structural support to graphene, as it is detached from underlying metal substrate, but, the residue and cracks of the polymer film after the transfer process affects the properties of the graphene. Herein, a simple mixture of polystyrene and low weight plasticizing molecules is reported as a suitable candidate to be used as polymer support layer for transfer of graphene synthesized by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). This combination primarily improves the flexibility of the polystyrene to prevent cracking during the transfer process. In addition, the polymer removal solvent can easily penetrate between the softener molecules, so that the polymer film can be easily dissolved after transfer of graphene, thereby leaving no residue. This facile method can be used freely for the large-scale transfer of 2D materials. Aications  has beenications . Howeverications ,21,22,23ications ,25,26,27To remove the complications regarding the wet transfer of graphene altogether, recently, we reported the use of polystyrene assisted graphene transfer with the addition of plasticizer named 4, 4′-Di-iso-propylbiphenyl (DIPB) . PolystyIn this study, the effects of the length of plasticizer molecules mixed with polystyrene on the mechanical properties and flexibility were systematically tested and analyzed. It is intended to further develop previous published studies by applying to graphene transfer experiments. We have used polystyrene as base polymer for graphene transfer, due to the presence of multiple aromatic rings in polystyrene polymer chain, which can form strong π-π links with graphene layer for strong adhesion. Since polystyrene does not contain any active bonding links in its molecular structure, any unwanted and permanent bonding between the polymer and graphene can be avoided. Furthermore, polystyrene is readily soluble in wide array of organic solvents, leaving no residues after dissolution. Polystyrene has intrinsically amorphous structure and mechanical properties of polystyrene itself are not very suitable for graphene transfer, due to its rigid structure ,30. So, Polymer solutions for graphene transfer were prepared by dissolving polystyrene beads  in toluene solvent at 5 w.t%. 1-5 hexadiene, 1-7 octadiene and 1-9 decadiene  were used as plasticizers for polystyrene. Polystyrene to plasticizer ratio in the solution was varied from 100% pure polystyrene to 80/20 ratio of polystyrene with plasticizer. The solution was stirred at 500 rpm for 3 h and filtered to remove any undissolved residue from the solution. PMMA solution  was used for PMMA assisted graphene transfer.Graphene was grown on copper foil  after cleaning the foil by nickel etchant . Low pressure CVD method was used to make full coverage graphene, as reported before . Cleaned2/Si by wet transfer method [As prepared polymer solution was spin coated on top of graphene layer at 500 rpm for polystyrene based solutions and 3000 rpm for PMMA solution for 30 s and dried in oven at 70 °C in oven for 10 min. This graphene layer, sandwiched between metal substrate and polymer support layer, was transferred on 300 nm SiOr method  as shown-1, to detect any new bonding links between polystyrene and plasticizer materials. Mechanical properties are measured by nanoindentation test  at loading force from 0 to 30 µN. Surface morphology of transferred graphene was studied by optical microscope , high resolution scanning electron microscope , at accelerating voltage of 10.0 kV, at a working distance of 7.2 mm and atomic force microscope . Raman spectra and mapping data were measured by Raman spectroscopy  at 532 nm laser wavelength and 1 µm spot size. Four-probe station was used to measure sheet resistance of transferred graphene .Pure polystyrene and plasticized polystyrene films were investigated by FT-IR spectroscopy  at room temperature from 3500 to 500 cmThe first step in our work was to prepare and identify a plasticized polystyrene material and its chemical and mechanical properties. The introduction of short chain molecules i.e., 1-5 hexadiene, 1-7 octadiene and 1-9 decadiene in polystyrene polymer structure can provide the necessary mechanical flexibility and improve the hardness of thin polymer film required for graphene transfer . A thin We also tested different molecular weight of polystyrene polymer and the effect of molecular weight on mechanical properties of polymer support film . It was 2 and measuring the film hardness (MPa) and tip penetration depth against a fixed force (30 µN in our case). The main purpose of introducing plasticizer in polystyrene polymer is to increase the mechanical flexibility of the film, as pure polystyrene has an amorphous phase and high hardness value. These properties are studied by spin coating a thin film of polymer on SiO2 substrates, as described in the experimental section  used for polystyrene plasticization process significantly improved the transfer quality of graphene, and retained the intrinsic properties and structure of primarily single layer graphene.Lastly, the electrical properties of these graphene samples were compared by measuring the sheet resistance (average of 5 readings in Ω/sq) of as transferred graphene samples. The plasticized polystyrene however, resulted in much lower sheet resistance values compared to PMMA or polystyrene only, mainly due to the modified physical properties and flexibility of the polymer support layer. Lower sheet resistance values have been reported earlier for PMMA assisted graphene transfer, but that method required the additional process of the annealing of transferred samples, which added extra processing steps and costs .In this work, we present a comprehensive study of the effect of mechanical and chemical properties of the polymer support layer used for graphene transfer, along with a brand-new material combination using polystyrene and low molecular weight softeners . This work demonstrates that flexibility and chemical reactivity of polymers used for graphene transfer play equal role to achieve the best quality of CVD graphene, and will help to overcome the major hurdle of degradation of graphene during the transfer process to desired substrates. Plasticized polystyrene contributes to uniform graphene transfer without sacrificing mechanical and chemical properties of graphene film, as indicated by improved morphology and electrical properties, along with the removal of surface defects and chemical residues attributed to current graphene transfer techniques, like PMMA assisted transfer. This new material combination is expected to be easily scalable to large scale transfer application as well as the transfer of other 2D materials like TMDCs, hBN and black phosphorus.


Sarcoidosis has been associated with co-existing malignancies in several organs, including the breast and thyroid gland as well as lymphomas. However, the occurrence of sarcoidosis with cervical cancer is rare with only nine previous cases reported in the published literature. We present a case of pulmonary sarcoidosis imitating mediastinal lymph node metastases on the staging CT scan and positron emission tomography imaging. The presence of thoracic lymphadenopathy without any pelvic lymphadenopathy prompted histological confirmation of sarcoidosis on endobronchial ultrasound guided biopsy. Misdiagnosing pulmonary sarcoidosis as metastases would have precluded the patient from receiving the curative treatment and likely resulted in suboptimal outcomes. A 31-year-old female presented with a history of post-coital bleeding. She had never had a cervical smear or any other form of screening and did not have any significant past medical history. She had completed her family with two children, worked as a lorry loader and smoked occasionally. There was no shortness of breath, cough or any other respiratory symptoms. A thorough systemic inquiry did not reveal any other significant symptoms. On examination, there was a large fungating polyp on the cervix. Respiratory examination was within normal limits. There were no extra pulmonary manifestations of sarcoidosis.The patient underwent a punch biopsy which showed a moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix. Routine blood tests including a full blood count, urea and electrolytes, liver function tests and C-reactive protein (CRP) were all within normal limits.1  avid mediastinal and right hilar lymphadenopathy and was therefore unhelpful in differentiating metastatic disease from the other differentials discussed below. Consequently, the patient underwent an endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) guided biopsy of the mediastinal lymph nodes. Histopathological assessment of the EBUS biopsy showed high cellularity with numerous well-formed granulomas of epithelioid cells with several multinucleated giant cells and lymphocytic cuffs. There was focal necrosis of non-caseating type..In the absence of distant metastases, the patient was staged as FIGO IIB and underwent radical treatment with concurrent chemoradiotherapy with curative intent. The treatment involved external beam radiotherapy to the pelvis with concurrent Cisplatin followed by two fractions of brachytherapy to the cervix.MRI of the pelvis, 3 months after completion of chemoradiotherapy and brachytherapy, showed complete response with no residual tumour. CT scan of the chest revealed no significant changes to the pre-existing lymphadenopathy.5 However, in the UK, cervical cancer accounts for less than 1% of all cancer deaths amongst females and mortality rates have fallen by 74% since 1970’s,5 owing not only to the introduction of a screening programme, but also to the highly effective treatment options available today. The clinical management of cervical cancer is largely dependent on the stage of disease. Patients with FIGO stages I to III and even some with stage IVA disease are offered radical treatment options with curative intent whereas those with distant metastases (FIGO Stage IVB) are offered treatment with palliative intent.6 Thus, accurate radiological staging of cervical cancer, particularly in reporting distant metastases, is critical as it can often be the deciding factor between offering treatment with curative and palliative intent.Worldwide, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer amongst females and globally has a high mortality rate, with 90% of cervical cancer-related deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries.In the case presented here, it was the unusual pattern of distribution of presumed lymph node spread which prompted further investigations into its aetiology. Had the possibility of a non-metastatic aetiology for the thoracic lymphadenopathy not been entertained, the patient would have been inaccurately staged as FIGO Stage IVB and consequently would not have been considered for treatment with curative intent. In a 31-year-old patient with no co-morbidities and good performance status, this would have very likely resulted in an unacceptably suboptimal clinical outcome.7 A previously published review identified 59 reported cases of cancer and co-existing sarcoidosis.7 The most common primary cancer was of breast origin (n = 12), followed by thyroid cancers (n = 8).7 The review identified only 1 case of cervical cancer co-existing with sarcoidosis.7,8 A literature search on PubMed database revealed further studies reporting co-existing sarcoidosis with cervical cancer, as summarised in Sarcoidosis, a multisystem, granulomatous, inflammatory disorder with unknown aetiology has been associated with an increased risk of developing malignancies in several organs, in particular lung, liver, gastric cancers as well as melanomas and lymphomas.13 As there is no definitive diagnostic test for sarcoidosis and it is often a diagnosis of exclusion, further tests are required to exclude other differentials such as tuberculosis, HIV and fungal infections.13 A definitive diagnosis of sarcoidosis requires clinical or radiological manifestations, exclusion of other differentials and histopathological confirmation of non-caseating granulomas.13 Differentiating sarcoidosis from other causes is difficult based on CT alone. Symmetry of hilar lymphadenopathy can be a helpful feature in sarcoidosis, differentiating it from lymphoma, TB and fungal infections.4 In patients with known malignancy PET-CT could be considered. Most of the studies reviewed in 8,10,11 FDG PET imaging is a commonly used modality in a variety of malignancies and often helps with accurate clinical staging of the disease.11 However, as both malignant lesions as well as inflammatory lesions such as sarcoidosis lesions engage in glucose consumption, they can both show FDG avidity and could be indistinguishable on PET imaging.11A thorough evaluation of suspected sarcoidosis warrants detailed history including occupational and environmental exposure as well as a full physical examination, focussing on the pulmonary as well as the extra pulmonary manifestations of sarcoidosis.Consider histopathological confirmation when there is diagnostic uncertainty on imaging, especially if the distribution of lymphadenopathy is not in keeping with the known pattern of lymph node spread for the primary malignancy.Hypermetabolic activity from sarcoidosis on PET imaging is often indistinguishable from malignancy. Misdiagnosing pulmonary sarcoidosis as metastatic disease is a potential pitfall and can result in the patient not receiving the curative treatment and lead to suboptimal outcomes.Despite the rare occurrence of co-existing sarcoidosis with cervical cancer, it is an important differential diagnosis to consider in cervical cancer patients with thoracic lymphadenopathy, especially in those who are otherwise suitable for curative treatment.


Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease, associated with significant morbidity and impaired quality of life. Treatment is aimed at recovering organ function, reducing symptom burden and improving quality of life. Because of the heterogeneity and variable disease course, a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to care is needed. Comprehensive care includes not only pharmacological interventions, but also supportive measures aimed at relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. The purpose of this review is to summarize the most recent knowledge regarding different aspects of care and propose a structured approach to sarcoidosis management. Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown cause, that can affect almost any organ. The past decade we have gained more insights in the dysregulation of the immune system, which is thought to play an important role in the etiology of sarcoidosis . PatientCurrent pharmacological treatment of sarcoidosis is usually immunosuppressive and directed at decreasing granulomatous inflammation . OverallThe aim of this review is to summarize the most recent knowledge regarding different aspects of care in sarcoidosis and propose the “ABCDE model for sarcoidosis”, which is an adaptation of the version in interstitial lung diseases (ILD) ,11.The importance of comprehensive care in sarcoidosis is generally acknowledged ,13. HereIn all sarcoidosis patients, organ involvement should be carefully assessed in the diagnostic process and during follow-up. The degree of organ damage and disease activity is often difficult to quantify, as no gold standards exist and symptoms are often non-specific ,14,15. Rn = 150) considered their general health moderately to severely impaired. Only 7% answered that their health problems had no influence on their social life [n = 755) were partially or totally unable to work due to their sarcoidosis, highlighting the considerable impact of sarcoidosis on daily life [n = 2318), 44% of respondents reported a large effect on household finances, and 31% had to quit their job after the diagnosis of sarcoidosis [Furthermore, organ involvement significantly varies for different ethnic groups. In individual patients, the number of involved organs may change over time and therefore diagnostic assessments have to be performed regularly, particularly if patients express new symptoms ,16. The ial life . Furtherily life . A Swediily life . In a USOverall, sarcoidosis patients have an impaired QoL compared with the healthy population . SeveralQoL can be defined as “an individual’s perception of their position in life” and is influenced by a person’s values, beliefs, culture, physical health, social and psychological state . Qol canOther factors with a potential negative impact on QoL should not be forgotten in the assessment of sarcoidosis patients. For example, medication for sarcoidosis may lead to debilitating side-effects, such as weight gain, diabetes, osteoporosis and psychological problems ,39,40. AAlthough it is increasingly acknowledged that patient perspectives are important for optimizing individually-tailored treatments ,27,42, lSeveral support measures to improve QoL for sarcoidosis patients have been suggested in the past years. Better information and education are vital to optimize care for sarcoidosis ,27,45,46Self-management support is one of the main pillars of the chronic care model, developed to improve care for patients with chronic conditions . Many asWhile activity tracking at home could possibly help to stimulate exercise ,53,54,55The majority of patients would like to have better access to psychological support ,27. In cSymptom relief is a major aspect of sarcoidosis management. Dyspnea is among the most common symptoms in sarcoidosis and is an important indication for treatment . DyspneaNon-organ manifestations or parasarcoidosis syndromes include symptoms as fatigue, depression, anxiety, pain, SFN, and cognitive impairment . As mostNext to fatigue, SFN-related related symptoms were reported by the vast majority of patients (86%) in a recent European survey . SFN is Other common non-organ manifestations of sarcoidosis are psychological problems. Previous studies reported anxiety in up to 33% of patients and depressive symptoms in up to 66% of patients ,83. In aCognitive problems, including memory loss, concentration difficulties and impaired short-term memory are reported by more than 50% of sarcoidosis patients ,81. At pComorbidities may also importantly impact QoL and are more prevalent in patients with sarcoidosis compared to the normal population ,86,87. ANot all patients with sarcoidosis require pharmacological treatment, as the majority will have spontaneous regression of the disease . TreatmePharmacological treatment of pulmonary sarcoidosis should be considered for patients with significant pulmonary symptoms and patients with an impaired or deteriorating lung function ,91. For The current guideline, dating from 1999, states that “the appropriate treatment has not been well-defined for all patients” . PresentThe most frequently used second-line treatment is the folic acid antagonist methotrexate . MethotrIn refractory sarcoidosis, TNF inhibitors can be prescribed as a third-line agent. Infliximab has been studied in randomized controlled trials and may have beneficial effects on both pulmonary and extra-pulmonary sarcoidosis in a subgroup of carefully selected patients ,102,103.Pulmonary physicians play an important role in the management of sarcoidosis patients, as the lungs are affected in up to 90% of patients. Nevertheless, a multidisciplinary team is needed to improve efficiency of care and outcomes for patients, as many organs can be affected and symptoms are wide-ranging ,107. WhiA comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach is essential to treat patients with such a heterogeneous disease as sarcoidosis. Besides aiming at disease modification with pharmacological interventions, patients should also be offered supportive comprehensive care aimed at relieving symptoms and optimizing QoL. Patients’ preferences should be guiding all treatment decisions. To allow for better evidence-based treatment in the future, more research into both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options is highly needed.


Three-dimensional (3-D) porous graphitic structures have great potential for sensing applications due to their conductive carbon networks and large surface area. In this work, we present a method for facile fabrication of hair-like laser induced graphene (LIG) patterns using a laser scribing system equipped with a 355 nm pulsed laser. The polyimide (PI) film was positioned on a defocused plane and irradiated at a slow scanning speed using a misaligned laser beam. These patterns have the advantages of a large surface area and abundant oxidation groups. We have applied the hair-like LIG patterns to a humidity sensor. The humidity sensor showed good sensitivity characteristics and a large amount of electronic carriers can be stored. Therefore, the fabrication of sensors using LIG is very simple and cost-effective, showing many advantages over lithographic sensors [Graphene is a two-dimensional 2-D) monolayer of  lattice . Due to -D monola lattice ,4,5,6. B lattice , strain  lattice ,9, solar lattice ,11, bios lattice ,13,14,15 lattice ,17,18,19 PI film . LIG has sensors . This is sensors ,22, gas  sensors ,24, supetivity 5– S/cm. Th sensors  and bio  sensors ,28.In this paper, we present an approach for fabrication of a porous, conductive, 3-D carbon network obtained by direct laser writing onto PI sheets. This is done under ambient conditions with a cost-effective laser scribing system equipped with a 355 nm pulsed laser. Due to the wavelength characteristic of 355 nm pulsed laser, it is effective to manufacture LIG by irradiating the polyimide with a laser. By controlling the alignment, laser speed and focal plane, we could control changes in the LIG pattern’s morphology and chemistry. The most important feature of our LIG manufacturing method is the condition of the laser. We used misaligned and defocused beams when irradiating the PI with a laser. In order to increase the overlap rate of the pulse, the scanning speed of the laser was adjusted to 10 mm/s, and hair-like LIG patterns were made under the conditions mentioned. These patterns have the advantage of having a large surface area and rich functional groups. This results in improving the characteristics of the sensor. Therefore, we propose a new approach to fabricate a humidity sensor in a simple one-step process without the complex fabrication processes used for conventional humidity sensors ,30,31. WIn this experiment, LIG patterns were fabricated using a laser scribing system equipped with a 355 nm pulsed laser . A photograph of the laser system configuration is shown in PI thin film has a very high absorption rate with respect to 355 nm wavelength . Althoug.1 J/cm2 . If the .1 J/cm2 . Recentl.640 µm) . When thLIG, described above, is based on photothermal effect caused by a shown in  is the o® HN, Wilmington, DE, USA) with a nominal thickness of 125 µm was irradiated at defocused plane (+1.5 mm) and misaligned laser beam. Commercial PI film (DUPONT™ KAPTONWe observed the formation of 3-D PGS in hair-like LIG patterns through FE-SEM pictures and predicted the chemical structure through Raman spectra analysis.−1, a G peak near 1580 cm−1, and a 2-D peak near 2700 cm−1. The layer number identification of graphene can be confirmed by the Because the multi-layered graphene with porous structure has many defects, such as abundant oxygen groups, these LIG patterns have the possibility of excellent sensing ability.The facile fabrication of a hair-like humidity sensor is shown uctivity .We conducted several experiments to check the electrical characteristics of the humidity sensor.To fabricate a hair-like LIG patterns, we placed the PI film on a defocused plane and slowly irradiated the laser with a misaligned beam. We confirmed that FE-SEM and Raman spectra showed that hair-like LIG patterns had a porous structure and had abundant oxidation groups. We applied it as a humidity sensor to confirm the applicability of these patterns. For simplification of the process, the pattern was designed with 2-CAD and fabricated using LDW method. This hair-like humidity sensor showed good sensitivity and was also excellent in storage capacity for large quantities of electrical carriers. Therefore, our new form of sensor platform presents excellent characteristics which have potential for fundamental and practical work.


Spirodela polyrhiza (duckweed) under three levels of population density , two levels of nutrient availability (low or high), and two levels of clonal fragmentation (with or without). Clonal fragmentation and high nutrients increased biomass and ramet number, but decreased frond width, frond length, and specific frond area of S. polyrhiza. Increasing population density decreased growth (biomass and ramet number) and frond and root size, and increased frond thickness of individual ramets of S. polyrhiza. The negative effect of population density on growth of S. polyrhiza was greater under high than under low nutrient availability. Furthermore, the negative effect of population density on total mass and frond mass of S. polyrhiza was greater with fragmentation than without. These results suggest that clonal fragmentation, nutrient availability and population density can interact to affect growth and morphology of clonal floating plants. Competition for nutrients and space, rather than light, may be the mechanisms underlying reduced growth of clonal floating plants. As clonal fragmentation can increase biomass and ramet production of S. polyrhiza, disturbance that potentially causes clonal fragmentation cannot be recommended as a measure to limit the spread of clonal floating plants.Connected ramets of aquatic clonal plants are susceptible to fragmentation by disturbance. Such clonal fragmentation may interact with nutrient availability and individual density to affect growth and morphology of aquatic clonal plants. We grew the widespread floating clonal plant  Small floating plants are conspicuous components of many aquatic ecosystems  and playAquatic ecosystems are frequently subjected to disturbance caused by e.g., flooding , human aPistia stratiotes and Eichhornia crassipes  due to loss of the ability of sharing resources  between previously interconnected asexual individuals  . Howeverrassipes . This israssipes . Furtherrassipes .Population density is an important factor for plant growth and morphology because it affects resource availability . High poSalvinia natans , and grew one (low density), four (medium density) or 16 (high density) ramets in containers with two levels of nutrients (low or high). All newly produced ramets were either severed (with fragmentation) or connected to parent ramets (without fragmentation) to test the effects of clonal fragmentation, nutrient availability, population density, and their interactions on growth and morphology of S. polyrhiza. Specifically, we addressed two questions (1) Do clonal fragmentation, nutrient availability and population density affect growth and morphology of S. polyrhiza? (2) Do clonal fragmentation, nutrient availability and population density interact to affect growth and morphology of S. polyrhiza?Duckweeds are a food source of a number of vertebrates , so thatSpirodela polyrhiza (L.) Schleiden is a small clonal plant of the Lemnaceae family (duckweeds) and is widely distributed across many temperate and tropical regions of the world , Zhejiang Province, China. The species was brought to a greenhouse at Taizhou University for propagation, and the plants were washed several times with double distilled water to avoid microbial and other contaminations. They were then rinsed with 0.01 M NaClO for 30 s to prevent algal growth (3)2⋅4H2O, 506 mg/L KNO3, 80 mg/L NH4NO3, 136 mg/L KH2PO4, 493 mg/L MgSO4, 13.9 mg/L FeSO4⋅7H2O, and 18.7 mg/L EDTA⋅2Na.Ramets of l growth , and cull growth . The HoaS. polyrhiza was added in a container. In the medium and high population density treatments, four and 16 ramets were added, respectively. Ramets consisting of two fronds were used in this experiment. Each replicate was comprised of a container that was 24.5 cm in diameter and 11 cm tall, filled with 3 L of either a low (2%) or high concentration (10%) of Hoagland solution.The experiment had three levels of initial population density  crossed with two levels of nutrient availability (low or high) and two levels of fragmentation (with or without fragmentation) in a fully factorial design with seven replicates each. In the low population density treatment, one ramet of S. polyrhiza: 16 ± 0.5 mg, mean ± SE, n = 20). Containers were arranged randomly in the greenhouse.Clonal fragmentation was applied by severing connection between parent ramets and offspring ramets. In half of the containers, we severed stipe connections between the parent ramets and the newly produced offspring ramets; in the other half, the stipe connections were left intact. Severing was repeated every 3 days during the experiment. We randomly selected 200 ramets to measure initial biomass . There were about 14 h of daylight and 10 h of darkness in the greenhouse during the experiment. The mean air temperature was 27.0 ± 0.3°C (mean ± SD), and the mean relative humidity was 85.9 ± 0.6% (mean ± SD), as measured hourly by temperature loggers .The experiment lasted for 5 weeks, starting on 16 July and ending on 19 August 2018. At harvest, plants in medium and high population density treatments covered the entire water surface. Hoagland solutions were completely replaced every week. Photosynthetic photon flux density at the water surface was measured at noon on sunny days  of each ramet. In each container, we obtained an image of 25 randomly selected ramets by a scanner (Epson Perfection V19), and measured frond width, frond length, and total frond area by WinFOLIA Pro 2004a  using this image. These ramets were then separated into fronds and roots, dried in oven at 70°C for 48 h, and weighed to obtain total frond mass and total root mass of these 25 ramets. Specific frond area in each container was calculated as total frond area divided by total frond mass of these 25 ramets, which can be used to reflect frond thickness and light use efficiency of fronds. Mean frond width, frond length, longest root length, mass per ramet and frond area per ramet were also calculated based on the data of the 25 ramets in each container. In each container, we randomly selected another 75 ramets, and separated them also into fronds and roots. Frond mass and root mass of these 75 ramets were obtained after oven-drying at 70°C for 48 h. Based on frond mass and root mass of the 100 ramets , we obtained frond mass ratio  and root mass ratio . The remaining plants in each container were also harvested, but not separated into leaves and roots. They were dried in oven at 70°C for 48 h, and weighed. Total mass in a container was the sum of mass of the 100 ramets and the remaining ones in that container. Total frond mass in a container was calculated as total mass × frond mass ratio in that container, and total root mass was total mass × root mass ratio.By the end of the experiment, we counted the total ramet number of S. polyrhiza. Ramet number and root length were log-transformed to improve homoscedasticity; figures show untransformed data. Statistical analyses were carried out with SPSS 19.0 .Before analysis, values of total mass, frond mass, root mass, and ramet number were divided by the number of parent  ramets , so that values were scaled to the level of per parent ramet. We used three-way ANOVA to test for the effects of nutrient availability (low or high), population density , and fragmentation (with or without fragmentation) on growth  and morphology  of S. polyrhiza by 6.0–50.6% compared to the treatment without fragmentation , except for the treatment of low population density and low nutrient availability  and newly produced offspring ramets are connected to their parent ramet by slender stipes. Also, the duration of the connection between parent and offspring ramets are much shorter  compared to stoloniferous or rhizomatous clonal plants whose inter-ramet connections can maintain from one growing season  or several years  to several decades . For such reasons, resource sharing mediated by clonal integration may be weak and not favored at a relative longer time (3 days in the current study).Unlike stoloniferous or rhizomatous clonal plants, S. polyrhiza. Another possible reason is that maintaining connections between parent and offspring ramets of S. polyrhiza imposed great costs  on the whole clone, which overweighed the benefits of resource sharing  of S. polyrhiza, which could potentially intensify intraspecific competition, particular in high population density.The positive effect of clonal fragmentation on total mass and frond mass of S. polyrhiza, as demonstrated by reduced frond width, frond length, root length, and frond area per ramet. However, they increased frond thickness (as shown by reduced specific frond area) so that they had little effect on mass per ramet. Thus, the increased total mass of S. polyrhiza under high nutrients and clonal fragmentation was solely due to increased ramet production, but not related to individual ramet size or mass.Across other treatments, clonal fragmentation and high nutrients decreased frond and root size of the individual ramets of S. polyrhiza. An increase in frond thickness is likely because S. polyrhiza in unfavorable conditions can accumulate more starch grains (S. polyrhiza because this floating plant lacks vertical growth and can only spread horizontally (S. polyrhiza, it is most likely that increasing population density resulted in increased competition for space or nutrients, rather than light.Increasing population density decreased frond and root size and increased frond thickness of individual ramets of h grains . For terh grains . On the h grains . Also, izontally . TherefoS. polyrhiza were higher under low than under high nutrient availability, and the negative effects of population density on frond length and specific frond area were greater when with clonal fragmentation than without. There was also an interactive effect of clonal fragmentation × nutrient availability × population density on frond width, frond length, root length, specific frond area, and frond area per ramet of S. polyrhiza. This was because the negative effect of population density was greater under low nutrient availability when the plant was fragmented. These results suggest that clonal fragmentation, nutrient availability, and population density can interact to affect morphology of S. polyrhiza. Clonal fragmentation increased biomass and ramet density of S. polyrhiza, likely resulting in increased intensity of intraspecific competition, particular under medium and high population density, which may greatly influence the morphological responses of the plants. However, plants under low nutrient availability and low population density did not occupy the whole surface of containers at the end of the experiment so that intensive competition shaping plant morphology may not occur under low population density.The negative effects of population density on root length and specific frond area of S. polyrhiza. As disturbance commonly results in clonal fragmentation of S. polyrhiza, it cannot be recommended as a measure to efficiently control the spread of this clonal floating plant.Clonal fragmentation, nutrient availability, and population density can interact to affect the growth, ramet production, and morphology of clonal floating plants. Competition for nutrients and space, rather than light, may be the mechanisms underlying reduced growth of clonal floating plants. Clonal fragmentation can increase biomass and ramet production of The raw data supporting the conclusions of this article will be made available by the authors, without undue reservation, to any qualified researcher.L-MZ, N-FL, J-SC, and F-HY contributed conception and design of the study. L-MZ, YJ, S-MY, and QZ performed the experiments and collected the data. L-MZ analyzed the data. L-MZ and F-HY wrote the manuscript. All authors contributed to manuscript revision, read and approved the submitted version.The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.


Graphene-metal contact is crucial to fabricate high-performance graphene photodetectors since the external quantum efficiency (EQE) of the photodetector depends on the contact properties, and the influence of the contact properties is particularly dominant in short channel devices for high-speed applications. Moreover, junction properties between the channel graphene and graphene near the contact are also important to analyze the photoresponse because the built-in electric field in the junction determines the EQE of the photodetector. In this study, we investigated a relation between the photoresponse and the built-in electric field induced from the doping level difference in the junction between the channel graphene and graphene near the contact. The photoresponse could be enhanced with a high junction barrier height that is tuned by the doping level difference. In addition, we observed that the improved electrical characteristics of channel graphene do not guarantee the enhancement of the photoresponse characteristics of graphene photodetectors.  Graphene, a two-dimensional honeycomb lattice of carbon atoms, has attracted attention due to its unique electrical and optical characteristics ,2. The uIn this work, we investigated the effect of the doping level difference between the channel graphene and graphene near the metal contact on the photoresponse of a graphene photodetector. We observed that the electrical characteristics and doping levels of channel graphene were changed by the post-annealing process, and we investigated the relation between the photoresponse and the electrical characteristics of channel graphene at various annealing temperatures. Finally, we separately analyzed the photoresponse characteristics of the channel and contact region of the graphene photodetector.2 layer was 100 nm. Photolithography was used for patterning the electrode on the graphene layer. A palladium (Pd)/gold (Au) (20 nm/50 nm) was deposited on the patterned photoresist by an e-beam evaporating system and followed by the lift-off process. Then, we defined the channel region of the graphene photodetectors by using photolithography and oxygen plasma treatment . The photoresist was removed by acetone and isopropanol. A top-view optical image of the fabricated graphene photodetector with a channel length of 15 μm and a channel width of 20 μm is shown in the top of We fabricated graphene photodetectors with various channel lengths using commercially available monolayer graphene . Graphene was transferred on the thermally oxidized silicon substrate. The thickness of the SiO−7 Torr) for two hours. The electrical and photoresponse characteristics of the graphene photodetectors were measured using a semiconductor parameter analyzer  and a 1550-nm-wavelength infrared laser diode . The laser diode was connected to the laser diode controller  and temperature controller  for stable operation.Prior to the electrical measurement, we annealed the fabricated graphene photodetectors in a vacuum probe station (~10D–VG) of the graphene photodetectors measured at a constant drain-source bias (VD = 0.1 V). The gate bias was varied from −20 V to 20 V. The channel lengths of the graphene photodetectors were 2, 5, 10, 15, and 20 μm and the channel width was fixed at 20 μm. The graphene photodetectors annealed at 150°C had a positively shifted Dirac voltage (~ 8 V), whereas the graphene photodetectors reannealed at 300 °C had a Dirac voltage close to 0 V. This indicated that the 150 °C annealing evaporated moisture and the 300 °C annealing effectively removed the polymer residue, which is critical for the practical applications with a low operating voltage of graphene photodetectors. One experimental detail for the graphene FETs is hysteresis. We evaluated the hysteresis of the graphene photodetectors after 300 °C annealing. The hysteresis of the 10-μm- and 20-μm-channel photodetectors were –1.2 V and –1.1 V, respectively. More details for hysteresis characteristics of the graphene photodetectors are shown in mg is the transconductance, chL is the channel length, oxC is the gate oxide capacitance, W is the channel width, and DV is the drain bias [2/V∙s, while the graphene photodetectors reannealed at 300 °C showed an improved value of ~2000 cm2/V∙s. Thus, this annealing process for removing undesirable doping is essential for important material parameters that determine the electrical properties of graphene. We firstly measured the electrical characteristics of the graphene photodetectors with various channel lengths (2–20 μm) after a 150 °C-annealing process. The graphene photodetectors were annealed again at 300 °C, and we remeasured the electrical characteristics after the first measurement. A schematic image of the graphene photodetector with various channel lengths is shown in the bottom of ain bias . The graWe expected that the improved electrical properties of the graphene photodetector would induce enhanced photoresponse characteristics. However, the photoresponse characteristics were degraded after 300 °C annealing rather than 150 °C annealing. G – VDirac of 2 V, whereas that of the 300 °C-annealed photodetector was near 0%. These results show that the 300 °C-annealing process affects the quantum efficiency of the graphene photodetector, thus resulting in degradation of the photoresponsivity. The photoresponse can generally occur in the channel region and near the graphene-metal contact region under light illumination [To find the reason that the photoresponsivity was degraded after the 300 °C annealing even though the electrical properties of graphene had improved, we investigated the optical modulation of the total device resistance of the graphene photodetector at different annealing temperatures. mination . In order to compare the photoresponse characteristics of the channel and contact regions, we extracted the sheet and contact resistance from the total device resistance using the transmission line method (TLM), which has been typically used to evaluate the graphene-metal contact resistance . Figure 2/V∙s (under illumination). G – VDirac = 7 V. Under light illumination, the photogenerated electrons and holes can be separated according to the induced electric field as determined by the doping level difference between the channel and contact graphene . Because the Fermi level of the contact graphene is located in the conduction band, this large doping level difference can induce a large built-in electric field. However, the contact resistance of the graphene photodetector was not significantly modulated by light illumination after 300 °C annealing, as shown in In contrast to the sheet resistance, a noticeable optical modulation of the contact resistance was observed under light illumination. inset of b. After 2/V∙s (under light illumination) after 300 °C annealing.From the electrical measurements b,c, we eWe have investigated the effect of the doping level difference between the channel graphene and graphene near the metal contact on the photoresponse of graphene photodetectors. The photoresponse was found to be related to the junction barrier height because this determines the magnitude of the electric field in the junction. We observed that the post-annealing process for improving the electrical characteristics of channel graphene adversely affects the photoresponse of the graphene photodetector, although the annealing process increased the carrier mobility of graphene and removed the unwanted doping effects. Thus, to fabricate a high-responsivity graphene photodetector, the height of the junction barrier between the channel graphene and contact graphene must be properly designed, considering the graphene doping level in each region.


Background: Left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is recognized in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Little is known about cardiac involvement in non-idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (no-IPF). This issue can be explored by advanced echocardiography. Methods: Thirty-three clinically stable and therapy-naive fibrotic IPF and 28 no-IPF patients, and 30 healthy controls were enrolled. Exclusion criteria were autoimmune systemic diseases, coronary disease, heart failure, primary cardiomyopathies, chronic obstructive lung diseases, pulmonary embolism, primary pulmonary hypertension. Lung damage was evaluated by diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCOsb). All participants underwent an echo-Doppler exam including 2D global longitudinal strain (GLS) of both ventricles and 3D echocardiographic RV ejection fraction (RVEF). Results: We observed LV diastolic dysfunction in IPF and no-IPF, and LV GLS but not LV EF reduction only in IPF. RV diastolic and RV GLS abnormalities were observed in IPF versus both controls and no-IPF. RV EF did not differ significantly between IPF and no-IPF. DLCOsb and RV GLS were associated in the pooled pulmonary fibrosis population and in the IPF subgroup , independently of confounders including pulmonary arterial systolic pressure. Conclusion: Our data highlight the unique diagnostic capabilities of GLS in distinguishing early cardiac damage of IPF from no-IPF patients. Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) include more than 200 disorders, characterized by a variable degree of inflammation and fibrosis leading to an often irreversible loss of lung function, wide spectrum in the clinical course, treatment, and prognosis. ILDs can be broadly divided in those without any identifiable cause, that is, idiopathic interstitial pneumonias, and those with identifiable factors such as environmental/occupational exposure, infections, autoimmune systemic diseases, drugs, and radiations . Among iBecause of its worse prognosis and challenging treatment, pneumological and cardiac aspects of IPF have been deeply investigated. Respiratory function declines along with disease progression, and changes in lung diffusion capacity of carbon monoxide (DLCO) and forced vital capacity (FVC) are both independent predictors of worse prognosis . PulmonaSpeckle Tracking Echocardiography (STE) has shown to be suitable for diagnosing early cardiac dysfunction in IPF patients ,13. Convn = 14), chronic hypersensitivity pneumonia (n = 9), and smoking-related desquamative interstitial pneumonia (n = 5). Diagnosis of IPF was made according to the 2011 international diagnostic criteria [The study population included 61 patients with clinically stable and therapy-naive fibrotic ILDs, referred at the time of first diagnosis to the Respiratory Diseases Division of the Federico II University, Monaldi Hospital , between October 2016 and October 2018. Thirty-three patients were affected by IPF (IPF group) and 28 had fibrotic ILDs other than IPF (no-IPF group), including idiopathic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia . All patients gave their written informed consent at enrollment. Patient data were collected in an anonymous way.sb) were performed using a computer-assisted spirometer  according to international standards [Spirometry, lung volume measurement, and determination of the haemoglobin-adjusted single-breath diffusing lung capacity of carbon monoxide , using a 2.5 MHz transducer with harmonic capability, according to the standards of our laboratory ,19,20 anLV quantitative analysis was performed according to guidelines . RelativIn a non foreshortened apical four-chamber view oriented to obtain the maximal RV internal chamber size, RV diameters  were measured at end-diastole. RV systolic function was assessed measuring tricuspid annular systolic excursion  by M-mode echo. Pulsed Doppler RV inflow was recorded to measure tricuspid early diastolic (E) and atrial (A) peak velocities (m/s) and E/A ratio . RV GLS Notably, LV and RV GLS values were considered positive (sign +) to strengthen the clinical meaning: the higher the values, the better the strain deformation.3D echocardiographic examination of the right ventricle was performed according to previously described procedures ,30. A fusb values and RV after adjusting for confounders such as age, LVEF, and PASP. The null hypothesis was rejected at p ≤ 0.05.Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS package, release 12 . Data are presented as mean value ± SD. Intergroup comparisons were performed using ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc test. Pearson’s correlation was used to evaluate univariate correlates of a given variable. Multivariable linear regression analyses were performed to examine the independent correlates between DLCOSince the data are normally distributed, they are presented as mean with standard deviation. Demographics, clinical features, and main baseline heart and lung function parameters of the study population are summarized in p = 0.004), but not in the no-IPF group, compared to controls. LV EF did not differ significantly between IPF, no-IPF, and controls, whereas LV GLS was lower in IPF than in no-IPF (p = 0.003) and controls (p < 0.0001).LV standard echocardiographic and STE assessment are reported in n = 21) in the IPF group and 75% (n = 21) in the no-IPF group but significative PAH  was observed only in four patients (12.5%) with IPF, and in two patients (7%) with no-IPF. RV standard, STE, and 3D analysis are summarized in p = 0.028) and midcavity (p = 0.051) diameters and lower TAPSE (p = 0.007). Both IPF and no-IPF patients had lower tricuspid inflow E/A ratio  and higher PASP  versus controls. Both IPF and no-IPF patients had also lower RV GLS in comparison with controls  but RV GLS was lower in IPF than in no-IPF (p < 0.05). Three-dimensional-derived RV EF was lower in IPF and no-IPF compared to controls (both p < 0.002) but did not differ significantly between IPF and no-IPF (p = 0.987). The prevalence of PAH was 65% , whereas the relation between LV GLS and DLCOsb was not significant  . The relations of RV GLS with pO2 , pCO2 , FVC , and TLC  did not achieve statistical significance. Of note, RV EF was not significantly related with any of the spirometric and pulmonary functional parameters. 6-MWT did not correlate with any of the echocardiographic parameters.In the pooled ILDs population, DLCO = 0.32) . RV GLS sb was independently associated with RV GLS . These results were substantially confirmed in the IPF subgroup  whilst no independent association between RV GLS and DLCOsb was found in the no-IPF population  LV diastolic dysfunction, which is detectable even in no-IPF patients, and a subclinical LV systolic dysfunction, testified by the reduction of LV GLS but not of LV EF, which cannot be observed in no-IPF patients; (II) a clear alteration of RV geometry and of both systolic (RV EF and GLS) and diastolic function, and a substantial PASP increase in comparison with controls, whereas no-IPF patients present only an alteration of RV diastolic dysfunction and a lower degree of PASP increase. Moreover, (III) an independent association between DLCOLV diastolic dysfunction, characterized by a reduction of transmitral E/A ratio and e’ mitral annular velocity and increase of E/e’ ratio, was already observed in IPF patients . Our datRV abnormalities have been demonstrated to be evident and predict prognosis in IPF. In a retrospective study on 135 IPF patients referred for lung transplantation, an increase of RV/LV ratio, right atrial and RV dilation, and moderate to severe RV dysfunction (TAPSE <1.6 cm) were all associated with an increased risk of death, independently of lung function parameters . RV abnosb reduction and RV GLS impairment, found in the pooled ILDs and in IPF but not in no-IPF, was independent of confounders such as body mass index, heart rate, and PASP. DLCOsb is more strictly associated with pulmonary fibrotic changes and represents, therefore, the best index of the IPF disease status and extension [Univariate and multivariate associations provided additional insights. The lack of association between FVC and RV GLS was partially unexpected as FVC is more feasible and reproducible than DLCO and largely adopted in the clinical practice and in clinical trials as a predictor of mortality in ILDS . Conversxtension  and reprxtension ,42,43. IFirst, despite being realized in a highly specialized reference setting, the present study is representative of the effort of a single center with a relatively small sample size of ILDs. As we mainly focused on IPF and smoke-related no-IPF pneumonias, our results certainly do not allow driving definite considerations in other forms of no-IPF including those related to autoimmune, connective tissue diseases. Indeed, patients with connective tissue disease-derived fibrotic ILDs likely merit separate analysis because of their high frequency of concomitant pulmonary vascular involvement ,45. In asb. Unlike FVC, DLCO changes are not specific as they depend on both ventilation and perfusion and are an expression of the integrity of the alveolar-capillary membrane. In addition, DLCOsb has a marked within-session and intersession variability [sb is widely recognized as a surrogate measure of pulmonary fibrosis extent and its changes have been demonstrated to be predictive of IPF disease progression over a 12-month period [sb are not feasible in ILD but this is true in the advanced disease stages and in particular in those requiring long-term oxygen therapy at high oxygen flows, whereas our population included clinically stable ILD patients at the time of first diagnosis.Another limitation could correspond to the use of DLCOiability . Neverthh period . SomeoneThe novel findings of the present study point out the diagnostic capabilities of strain imaging in distinguishing early cardiac damage in IPF from no-IPF patients, a task which cannot be attributed to both standard and 3D echocardiography. RV GLS is a key parameter for detecting early cardiac damage in ILDs, with a likely prognostic power, in this clinical scenario. Future studies could be addressed to investigate if RV GLS alterations are also associated with fibrotic heart rearrangement .


In microwave frequency band the conductivity of graphene can be varied to design a number of tunable components. A tunable phase shifter based on commercial graphene nanoplatelets is introduced. The proposed configuration consists of a microstrip line with two stubs connected with a taper. On each side of the stubs there is a gap, short circuited through a via, where the commercial graphene nanoplatelets are drop casted. By applying a DC bias voltage that alters the graphene resistance the phase of the transmitted signal through the microstrip line can be varied. In order to maximize the phase shift of the transmitted signal and minimize the insertion loss, the length of the taper and the stubs are optimized by the help of circuit model and full-wave simulations. A prototype working at 4GHz is fabricated and measured. A phase variation of 33 degrees is acquired with an amplitude variation of less than 0.4 dB. Among the various carbon based materials, graphene is the most notable ,2,3. DueGraphene has remarkable electrical, mechanical and thermal properties. Due to the remarkable properties of graphene, it has found inwards into several applications including electrochemical sensors ,9, bioseCommunication systems involve a number of components working at different frequencies. For efficient working, there needs to be an interconnection between components that form an entire communication system. This interconnection can be facilitated if the components are able to tune their working frequency. Therefore, the tuning of microwave components that form a communication system is vital to efficient functionality. Graphene being tunable with the application of a DC bias, is a good contender for being deployed in microwave communication systems. The acquisition of monolayer graphene is technologically demanding and not very cost effective. Multilayer graphene on the other hand bears tunable conductive behavior similar to monolayer graphene albeit with reduced cost and very low technological complexity. Until recently, multilayer graphene has been grown in laboratory. The availability of commercial graphene nanoplatelets on a large scale takes the ease of fabrication and commercialization of tunable components based on graphene one step further. Recently, a tunable attenuator  and anteIn this paper, a tunable phase-shifter based on commercial graphene nanoplatelets is designed. The proposed configuration consists of a microstrip line with two stubs connected with a taper. On each side of the stubs there is a gap, short circuited through a via, where the commercial graphene nanoplatelets are drop casted. By applying a DC bias voltage that alters the graphene resistance the phase of the transmitted signal through the microstrip line can be varied. The lengths of the tapered line and open line sections are optimized by the help of a circuit model. The phase shifter is further optimized with a full-wave simulator. A prototype of the tunable phase shifter is fabricated and measured. A variable phase shift of 33 degree is obtained with a degradation of the insertion loss of less than 0.4 dB. The type of graphene used in this work is graphene nanoplatelets based on multiple graphene layers. The graphene nanoplatelets are produced by Nanoinnova. Raman and FESEM (Field Emission Scanning Probe Microscope) are used for morphological characterization of the graphene nanoplatelets. TM 40 microscope was used. The FESEM images are shown in For FESEM analysis of the commercial graphene nanoplatelets, a ZEISS SUPRA −1 contains the D (defects) and G (graphitization grade). The second spectral range from 2200–3500 cm−1 is the second order Raman spectral range containing overtones. The ratios of the peaks are ID/IG = 0.15, ID/I2D = 0.27 and IG/I2D = 1.81. According to guidelines described in -Rin [Rg = 70 Ω] and ΔXin = Xin [Rg = 700 Ω]-Xin [Rg = 70 Ω] are found as shown in s the value of ΔXin is increased while increasing the value of Lt, the value of ΔRin is reduced up to length Ls = 0.3 λ0. Increasing the length, Ls further reduces the value of both ΔRin and ΔXin. For the case of Ls = 0.15λ0, in which there is no impact of the variation of Rg on Zin. The best case from this analysis is thus: Ls = 0.3 λ0 and Lt = 0.08 λ0.For each set of values of Lr = 3.5 and loss tangent is tanδ = 0.0015. The thickness of copper is 35 μm. The width of the main line is w = 3.2 mm, corresponding to a characteristic impedance of 50 Ω. The stub is shown in detail in t and an open ended line section of length, Ls. In order to realize the grounds, two grounded metallic vias are symmetrically placed on each side of the line section in the middle of a metallic pad. The metallic pad has length, Lp = 1 mm and width, wp = 2 mm. In between the metallic pad and the line section, graphene is deposited. The length of graphene deposition is equal to the length of the metallic pad, Lp = 1 mm. The graphene deposition has width, Wg = 0.2 mm and length, Lg = 1 mm. The aspect ratio is kept low to ensure lower resistance since commercial graphene nanoplatelets possess higher sheet resistance value. The operating principle of the phase shifter is to have a variable reactance on a transmission line caused by the optimized stubs of the s  for graphene resistance values ranging between 350 Ω/sq. and 3500 Ω/sq. (the graphene sheet resistance is measured in Ohm/square). The amplitude and phase variation of the phase shifter versus graphene sheet resistance are shown in s = 0.25 λ0 to Ls = 0.3 λ0. Increasing the value of Ls further to 0.35 λ0 results in increased variation of |S21|. The phase variation is shown in 21 increases with increasing Ls. The maximum phase variation is attained in the case of Ls = 0.35 λ0. The optimum length is Ls = 0.3 λ0 because it provides minimum amplitude variation with reasonable phase variation.The phase shifter is simulated with a full-wave simulator Ansys HFSS. In order to further optimize the structure, the phase shifter has been simulated at a frequency of 4 GHz with three different lengths of the open-ended line section, LThe structure of the phase shifter with optimized dimensions resulting from 21|. For an AR of 0.2, the maximum and minimum |S21| is −4.5 dB and −5.8 dB respectively. For the maximum AR value of 0.8, the maximum and minimum |S21| is −3.3 dB and −5.0 dB respectively. The value of the phase of the transmission coefficient increases with a reduction in the aspect ratio. The maximum value of ∠S21 for an AR of 0.2 is 73° while the minimum value is 22°. This shows that a reduction of the AR reduces the variation of the amplitude of the transmission coefficient and increases the variation of the phase of the transmission coefficient, a highly desirable trait of tunable phase shifters. The aspect ratio of the gap with graphene can be defined as: AR = Wg/Lg see b inset. 21 / insertion loss variation (dB)) is observed at a frequency of 4.3 GHz. The measured phase shift at the frequency of 4.3 GHz is almost 33 degrees with a measured amplitude variation less than 0.4 dB. Hence the maximum figure of merit is 82.5 degree/dB.In order to compare measured and simulated values, simulations are performed with graphene sheet resistance values corresponding to the measured graphene resistance values. The simulated amplitude (dashed lines) of the SAt this frequency the insertion loss and phase variation are simulated for different Rg values as shown in The phase shifter presented is a dynamically tunable phase shifter that varies its phase upon an application of a voltage bias. The phase shifter deploys commercial graphene nanoplatelets and is a step towards mass-production of tunable microwave components based on graphene. The phase shifter provides almost 33 degrees of phase shift with negligible variation of the insertion loss. A comparison of the phase shifter with other similar phase shifters based on novel materials is shown in As shown in The effects of a negative bias applied to the graphene nanoplatelets are predicted to change the carrier charge, the Fermi level and the electron mobility  resultinA voltage controlled dynamically tunable phase shifter based on commercial graphene nanoplatelets is presented. The phase shifter is composed of a microstrip transmission line connected to a tapered line and an open stub. Graphene connected to grounded metallic vias are symmetrically placed at the interconnection between the tapered line and the stub. The electrical conductivity of graphene is tuned by a voltage bias, which results in the variation of the insertion loss and phase of the signal transmitting through the microstrip line. In order to maximize the phase shift and minimize the insertion loss, optimization of the lengths of the open stub, tapered lines and the dimensions of the graphene’s depositions are performed by the help of circuit models and full wave simulations. A prototype is fabricated and measured. The measured phase shift of the phase shifter is almost 33 degrees with a variation of the insertion loss of less than 0.5 dB at the frequency of 4.3 GHz.


Nine men  randomly performed two CrossFit® sessions (shorter: ~4 min and longer: 17 min) with a 7-day interval between them. The response of LAC and HR were measured pre, during, immediately after, and 10, 20, and 30 min after the sessions. RPE was measured pre and immediately after sessions. Lactate levels were higher during the recovery of the shorter session as compared with the longer session . There were no significant differences between protocols on HR during . The LAC was significantly higher throughout the recovery period for both training sessions as compared to pre-exercise. The RPE was increased immediately after both sessions as compared to pre-exercise, while there was no significant difference between them . These results demonstrated that both shorter and longer sessions induced elevated cardiovascular responses which met the recommendations for gains in cardiovascular fitness. In addition, both training sessions had a high metabolic and perceptual response, which may not be suitable if performed on consecutive days.The aim of this study was to analyze blood lactate concentration (LAC), heart rate (HR), and rating perceived exertion (RPE) during and after shorter and longer duration CrossFit The regular practice of exercise is associated with the reduction of morbidity and mortality . NeverthAlternative training modalities have gained popularity in recent years. According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), high intensity interval training (HIIT), training with body weight, resistance training, and group training are the main fitness trends of 2019 , showing® that consists of performing functional and sports exercises. This type of training utilizes Olympic weightlifting exercises, such as snatch and clean, basic exercises including squats, deadlifts, and bench press, rowing, running and cycle ergometer cyclic exercises, and gymnastic movements, such as parallels, rings, and bars [® modality. High intensity training also has been associated with a more pronounced participation of the general population as compared with moderate aerobic training and resistance training [An alternative to traditional HIIT is the CrossFitand bars . These etraining .® training [® training  with high intensity treadmill training (20 min at 90% of HRmax). The mean HR for 20 min was above 93% of HRmax, and significantly higher in the high intensity treadmill training. This HR response meets the intensity recommendations from ACSM to improve cardiorespiratory fitness [® includes a dynamic of movements with elevated repetitions and high intensity, training protocols have distinct duration, from shorter protocols of only some minutes (2 to 8 min) to longer sessions (20 to 30 min), which may directly affect cardiovascular, metabolic, and rating of perceived exertion responses. We are not aware of any study evaluating these responses during shorter versus longer CrossFit sessions.Although some research has evaluated physiological responses to CrossFittraining ,11,12,13training  has comp fitness ,17. Alth® sessions. The hypothesis is that the cardiovascular response is higher than the recommended values by the ACSM with a greater metabolic and RPE response for both protocols.Thus, the aim of the present study was to compare blood lactate (LAC), HR and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) responses during and after shorter versus longer duration CrossFit® practice. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee from the local University .Nine apparently health men participated in the present study . The inclusion criteria were as follows: No muscle, joint, or bone injuries, presence of any disease that could compromise health during the study; negative response to the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire; signed the written informed consent document; have a minimal experience of six months with CrossFit® session . During the tests, HR was measured, while before and after the protocols, RPE and LAC were evaluated. Subjects were instructed to avoid meals two hours before sessions, to avoid alcoholic drinks, and stimulating drinks  in the 2 days preceding the experimental session. Medication or supplementation that could change LAC and HR were also suspended for 2 days preceding the experimental session. When medication could not be suspended, the subjects were excluded. The subjects were counterbalanced in regards to the order of the training sessions; the sessions were randomly chosen and completed at the same time of day in the presence of the same researchers under controlled room temperature. The subjects were adapted to both CrossFit® sessions and they recognized Fran and FGB sessions as described elsewhere [Subjects visited the laboratory on two occasions with 7 to 9 days apart. They completed a shorter (Fran), and a longer CrossFitlsewhere , as they® session was Fran, which consists of 21-15-9 repetitions of thrusters (43 kg) and pull-ups as fast as possible , which consists of three sets of 5 min per set, during which, as many repetitions as possible in five exercises are attempted , sumo deadlift high-pull (34 kg), box jump (50 cm), push-press (34 kg), and rowing , respectively; The longer duration CrossFitBefore training protocols, subjects remained seated for 10 min to collect blood samples for LAC measures by a portable device  . LactateThe monitoring of HR was done by Polar H10 HR-monitor , with recording intervals of 1 s. All subjects were monitored during both sessions: Shorter duration varying from 2 min 20 s to 9 min 01 s; and longer duration with a fixed time of 17 min . Moreover, after the protocols, subjects remained seated for 30 min for the analysis of HR as follows: Immediately after, 10, 20-, and 30-minutes following exercise. Maximal heart rate was estimated using the age-predicted equation (220-age).The RPE was measured before and immediately after exercise by the RPE CR10 Borg scale adapted by Foster et al. , as instBriefly, the following information was provided: “The perceived exertion is defined the effort intensity, stress, discomfort, and fatigue felt during exercise. Utilize the numbers of this scale to report how your body feels during exercise. The number zero in the scale describes “minimal effort” and represents your lowest imaginable effort. The number 10 described “maximum effort” and represents the highest imaginable effort. If you feel an exertion between extremely easy and maximum effort indicate a number between 0 and 10. At the end the tests we will require you to point a number to inform us about how your body is feeling in general. There are no right or wrong numbers. The verbal descriptors may help you to choose a number” .During the anchoring procedure, a RPE scale was presented to the subject by another evaluator that was present in the evaluation room. Subjects also received a copy of the scale with the respective instructions for anchorage. This was provided for subjects to read during the general warm-up for each session .®. Compound sphericity was verified by the Mauchley test. When the assumption of sphericity was not met, the significance of F-ratios was adjusted according to the Greenhouse–Geisser procedure. Tukey’s post-hoc test with Bonferroni adjustment was applied in the event of significance. Paired sample t test was used to compare HR during exercise between CrossFit® sessions. The achieved power of the sample size was calculated based on the interaction LAC between short and long sessions of CrossFit®. The effect size f was 0.302 and the achieved power was 0.801. The level of significance was p ≤ 0.05 and SPSS version 20.0  software was used.The data are expressed as mean value ± standard deviation (SD). Shapiro–Wilk test was applied to check for normal distribution of study variables. In case of non-normal distribution, logarithmic transformation was performed. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare the LAC, HR, and RPE between short and long sessions of CrossFitThe average time for Fran was 4.11 ± 2.36 min, the fastest time was 2.20 min and the slowest time was 9.01 min. The FGB was a fixed time of 17 min and the average number of repetitions were 294.1 ± 32.3 repetitions.® sessions and recovery time on LAC  than the recovery time of FGB. The 30 min area under the curve of LAC after Fran was also significantly higher than the area under the curve of LAC after FGB .There was a statistically significant two-way interaction between CrossFit® sessions. When the average and peak HR during sessions were compared, there was no statistically significant difference between CrossFit® sessions . There was also no statistically significant difference between the average HR during Fran and average HR during the first set of the FGB , second set , and third set . During Fran CrossFit® session, 90% of HRmax was achieved 30 s after the start of the session, on the other hand, 90 s was required to achieve 90% of HRmax during FGB CrossFit® session.® sessions and recovery time on HR  The shorter duration protocol displayed a higher LAC response during the recovery period as compared with the longer duration; (ii) both protocols reached a mean superior to 90% HRmax during training, without differences between them, and (iii) the RPE was close to the maximum for both protocols, without differences between them.The present study compared LAC, HR, and RPE during and after shorter versus longer CrossFit® sessions (shorter vs. longer) on cardiovascular, metabolic, and RPE responses in trained men. Previous studies have reported these results, but only separately, and in response to different training models [® workouts. They showed that both workouts analyzed are high intensity workouts achieving near maximal physiological  and perceptual levels . Recently, Kliszczewicz, et al. [® sessions with different duration (< 5 min and 15 min). The results demonstrated no difference in cardiovascular response between sessions (92.7 ± 4% vs. 91.3 ± 3% HRmax). Similarly to Kliszczewicz, et al., [®, with high levels of blood lactate, should consequently have attentional performances somewhat limited. Thus, reaction time, execution time, number of errors, and number of omissions that exhibited a significant worsening concomitantly with the increase in blood lactate, could be changed during both short and long sessions.To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to compare different durations of CrossFitg models ,12,13,14g models ,12 analy, et al.  analyzed et al.,  the resu et al.,  also sho® training sessions meet the intensity recommended by the ACSM to improve cardiovascular fitness [® sessions.An important finding of the present study is that CrossFit fitness , regardl fitness ,17, despDespite the interesting findings of this study, some limitations need to be mentioned. First, the reduced number of subjects. Second, it should be noted that these results should be considered only for trained male subjects. Therefore, our findings may not be directly transferable to the untrained or to females.Results revealed that both shorter and longer duration sessions elicited high cardiovascular responses, which meets the recommendations to improve cardiovascular fitness. The elevated metabolic and RPE responses observed in both protocols indicate that they may not be suitable on consecutive days without sufficient recovery.