bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clopidogrel‐Induced Hepatocellular Injury and Cholestatic Jaundice in an Elderly Patient: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Goyal Rakesh K. , Srivastava Dimple , Lessnau Klaus‐Dieter
Published: April 2009

In patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention and in those with acute coronary syndromes, clopidogrel plus aspirin is the first‐line antiplatelet therapy for reducing cardiovascular events. Although clopidogrel is generally well tolerated, with rash, indigestion, vomiting, diarrhea, and bleeding being the most common adverse effects, rare but serious complications may occur. We describe a 78‐year‐old woman who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention with drug‐eluting stents; clopidogrel and aspirin were started as antiplatelet therapy. Three weeks later, the patient developed mixed hepatocellular and cholestatic liver injury. Clopidogrel was discontinued, and her liver profile results began to improve. Her diagnostic work‐up included screening for hepatitis, infectious mononucleosis, and rheumatologic diseases, as well as ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography; all results were normal. On day 5 of hospitalization, because of the patient's risk for thrombosis secondary to the drug‐eluting stents, clopidogrel was reintroduced; her liver enzyme levels increased. In the absence of any biliary obstruction or other obvious causes of hepatic injury, drug‐induced hepatocellular injury and cholestatic jaundice were suspected, and clopidogrel was again discontinued. The patient's liver function tests gradually improved 3 days later and showed marked improvement at her 2‐week follow‐up visit after discharge. Use of the Maria and Victorino scale for diagnosis of drug‐induced hepatotoxicity indicated a probable (score of 14) relationship between clopidogrel and mixed hepatocellular injury and cholestatic jaundice in this patient. Although routine liver function testing is not recommended in patients who receive clopidogrel, having a high index of clinical suspicion, drug rechallenge, and excluding other obvious causes are required to establish the diagnosis of a rare drug complication such as clopidogrel‐induced hepatic injury.
Mechanism of ASR reduction by reactive aggregate powders
Authors: Cyr M. , Carles-Gibergues A. , Moisson M. , Ringot E.
Published: April 2009

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a mechanism responsible for the mitigation of expansion when reactive aggregate powders (RAP) were used in concrete containing the same reactive aggregate. In the first part, it was shown that RAP were efficient in reducing the expansion of concrete by 35 to 95%. The most efficient powders were those coming from aggregates having high active silica contents (glass, opal). Powders of siliceous limestone were less effective. In a second part, experimental evidence of the pozzolanic activity of RAP was obtained. It was shown that RAP were similar to pozzolan, since they consumed lime and produce calcium–silicate–hydrate (C–S–H) having a lower calcium/silica (C/S) ratio than normal C–S–H. The third part showed experimentally that these low C/S C–S–H could increase the redistribution of alkalis of the pore solution, thus reducing the alkalinity of the pore solution to a level that was sufficiently low to limit the attack of coarser reactive aggregates. In the final part, numerical simulations using a modified version of the hydration model CEMHYD3D were carried out to support this assumption.
Electric‐field‐driven LC lens for 3‐D/2‐D autostereoscopic display
Authors: Hong HyungKi , Jung SungMin , Lee ByungJu , Shin HyunHo
Published: April 2009

Abstract— The use of an electric‐field‐driven liquid‐crystal (ELC) lens cell for switching between a 3‐D and 2‐D display is proposed. Due to the phase retardation of the non‐uniform LC directors, an ELC lens functions the same as a geometric lens. The parameters of an ELC for 3‐D applications are optimized through the simulation of the electrode configuration and voltage levels. A prototype was made where the ELC lens is placed in front of a liquid‐crystal display (LCD) 15 in. on the diagonal with a 99‐μm subpixel pitch. Under zero voltage, the ELC lens is a transparent medium and the users can see a clear 2‐D image. In 3‐D mode, the ELC lens array performs the same as a cylindrical lens array to the incident vertical polarization under suitable driving voltages. Placing a half‐wave plate between the LCD and ELC lens is proposed to change the polarization of the LCD to be parallel with the polarization lens direction of the ELC lens. The measurement of the horizontal luminance profile, performance of the ELC lens, and feasibility for 3‐D/2‐D switching was verified. The fabrication process for the ELC lens is compatible with the current LCD production process and enables the accurate control of the lens pitch of the ELC lens.
Practical implementation of a depth‐feeling‐enhanced two‐plane electro‐floating display system using three‐dimensional integral images
Authors: Hong Suk‐Pyo , Oh Yong‐Seok , Kim Eun‐Soo
Published: April 2009

Abstract— Although there are numerous types of floating‐image display systems which can project three‐dimensional (3‐D) images into real space through a convex lens or a concave mirror, most of them provide only one image plane in space to the observer; therefore, they lack an in‐depth feeling. In order to enhance a real 3‐D feeling of floating images, a multi‐plane floating display is required. In this paper, a novel two‐plane electro‐floating display system using 3‐D integral images is proposed. One plane for the object image is provided by an electro‐floating display system, and the other plane for the background image is provided with the 3‐D integral imaging system. Consequently, the proposed two‐plane electro‐floating display system, having a 3‐D background, can provide floated images in front of background integral images resulting in a different perspective to the observer. To show the usefulness of the proposed system, experiments were carried out and their results are presented. In addition, the prototype was practically implemented and successfully tested.
Subjective measures of presence and discomfort in viewers of color‐separation‐based stereoscopic cinema
Authors: Pölönen Monika , Salmimaa Marja , Aaltonen Viljakaisa , Häkkinen Jukka , Takatalo Jari
Published: April 2009

Abstract— The experience of various people related to a real 3‐D cinema visit has been studied, and the results will be discussed. This study has two distinct parts, which includes the comfort of the viewers and their sense of presence. Eighty‐four viewers filled out questionnaires about comfort and visual strain. Forty‐one subjects described their presence experience during the movie presentation. A majority of the people felt comfortable after the movie viewing; they experienced only mild‐eyestrain‐related symptoms. People evaluated the movie world as highly realistic, but they did not feel that they were actors in the virtual‐movie world. Most of the participants would recommend 3‐D cinema to friends because it was a very entertaining experience.
TFT‐LCD driver IC with embedded non‐volatile memory for portable applications
Authors: Shin Chang‐Hee , Kwon Oh‐Kyong
Published: April 2009

Abstract—To improve the display quality and yield of the TFT‐LCD driver IC, non‐volatile multiple‐time‐programmable (MTP) memory, which consists of an EEPROM cell and our proposed sense amplifier and power control circuit (SP), was integrated into a TFT‐LCD driver IC. The proposed SP has a 30% smaller layout area and a 18% faster response time compared to that of the conventional SP. The proposed SP also has lower power consumption because it does not use a static current. The TFT‐LCD quality was also improved by tuning the characteristics of the driver IC and the panel with the VREF, OSC, and VCOM blocks, using non‐volatile MTP memory. When the display quality improved, the yield also improved, along with a reduction in the failure ratio of the display module, which consists of the driver IC and the panel. As a result, the TFT‐LCD driver IC with the non‐volatile MTP memory demonstrated improved display quality and a higher yield compared to conventional driver ICs without such a memory.
The effect of gas‐dynamic factors on selective carbon‐nanotube synthesis by injection CVD method for field‐emission cathodes
Authors: Labunov Vladimir A. , Shulitski Boris G. , Prudnikava Alena L. , Shaman Yuri P. , Basaev Alexander S.
Published: April 2009

Abstract— Reversible selective growth of carbon‐nanotube (CNT) arrays on Si/SiO2 topologies was investigated for field‐emission‐display applications. The method used was that of high‐temperature pyrolysis of fluid hydrocarbon (p‐xylene [C8H10]) in a mixture with volatile catalyst (ferrocene [Fe(C5H5)2]) using Ar as the gas carrier. The synthesized CNT arrays were analyzed by SEM, TEM, Raman, and TGA analyses. Reversible CNT growth both on Si and SiO2 surfaces was found to be sensitive to the gas‐carrier flow rate and the catalyst/hydrocarbon solution injection rate into the synthesis zone. This phenomenon can be explained by inverse domination of active sites on Si and SiO2 surfaces at different flow rates of gas mixture, causing different types of catalyst precipitation followed by subsequent CNT growth. In principle, the possibility of growing CNTs using the proposed technology will allow the creation of precise geometries of field‐emission cathodes excluding the step of catalyst localization.
Current‐mode ambient‐light sensing circuit using p‐type low‐temperature polycrystalline‐silicon TFTs and p‐i‐m diodes
Authors: Lim Han‐Sin , Kwon Oh‐Kyong
Published: April 2009

Abstract— A current‐mode ambient‐light sensing circuit, which is composed of p‐intrinsic‐metal (p‐i‐m) diodes and p‐type low‐temperature polycrystalline‐silicon (LTPS) thin‐film transistors (TFTs) for autobrightness control of display panels. The proposed sensing circuit exhibits a wide dynamic range of 56 dB, while the output signal range is 1.8 times wider than that of a previously reported sensing circuit.
Effects of learner background on the development of writing skills in Japanese as a second language
Authors: Iwashita Noriko , Sekiguchi Sachiyo
Published: April 2009

The paper presents preliminary findings of a project which investigated whether learner background, in terms of instruction mode (i.e., school or intensive first-year course at university) and first language (i.e., character based or non-character based), has an impact on the development of writing skills in Japanese as a second language (JSL). Many students in second-year Japanese at university are post-secondary (i.e., they completed Year 12 Japanese at school). They are in class with students who started Japanese at university (i.e., are post-beginners). The intensity of instruction that the two groups have received is very different. A large number of the students learning Japanese at tertiary institutions in Australia are also native speakers of character-based languages (e.g., Chinese). Although there is a substantial volume of studies comparing the effects of instruction mode on L2 development, little is known of how instruction mode and L1 background together may affect L2 development in adult L2 learning settings. The data for the present study include writing samples collected on two occasions from 34 students from a variety of backgrounds. The samples were analysed in terms of length, grammatical complexity and schematic structures, use of kanji (Chinese characters), and vocabulary. The results were compared in terms of study experience and first language. In general, the performance of post-beginner learners from character-based language backgrounds was higher on kanji use and a few other areas, but their superior performance was derived from the interaction of two background factors (L1 and study background). The results show complexity in how different backgrounds affect L2 writing task performance. The study has strong pedagogical implications for teaching a character-based language to students from diverse study backgrounds.
Multiple-response sequences in classroom talk
Authors: Ko Sungbae
Published: April 2009

This paper examines multiple-response sequences (MRSs), occurring in adult Korean TESOL classrooms, to show the responses produced by students in the language classroom are not always confined within the boundaries of a single response, but are likely to be seen as mutually orienting to, and collaborating to produce a comprehensible outcome to the sequence. To analyse and consider what types of multiple response (MR) can be identified, and how the different types occur within those MRSs, this study adopts Conversation Analysis principles. By using conversation analytic perspectives, this study identifies four major types of MR (identical, complementary, collaborative and competitive).
Living in two worlds
Authors: Zheng Lin
Published: April 2009

This paper is based on an analysis of interviews, conducted at three primary schools in Melbourne, which sought to explore the determinants of code-switching between English and Chinese. Specifically, it examined school education and other specific possible determinants of code switching amongst Chinese-Australian bilingual children. The specific determinants of codeswitching that emerge from this study include: the length of residence in an English speaking community; the exposure to languages in schools and family communication patterns. The nature of school education played a leading role in Chinese language maintenance for the bilingual children.
Stress-induced phosphorylation of c-Jun-N-terminal kinases and nuclear translocation of Hsp70 in the Wistar rat hippocampus
Authors: Adzic M. , Djordjevic Ana , Krstic-Demonacos Marija , Radojcic Marija
Published: April 2009

Glucocorticoids are key regulators of the neuroendocrine stress response in the hippocampus. Their action is partly mediated through the subfamily of MAPKs termed c-Jun-N-terminal kinases (JNKs),whose activation correlates with neurodegeneration. The stress response also involves activation of cell protective mechanisms through various heat shock proteins (HSPs) that mediate neuroprotection. We followed both JNKs and Hsp70 signals in the cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments of the hippocampus of Wistar male rats exposed to acute, chronic, and combined stress. The activity of JNK1 was decreased in both compartments by all three types of stress, while the activity of cytoplasmic JNK2/3 was elevated in acute and unaltered or lowered in chronic and combined stress. Under all stress conditions, Hsp70 translocation to the nucleus was markedly increased. The results suggest that neurodegenerative signaling of JNKs may be counteracted by increase of nuclear Hsp70,especially under chronic stress.
Apoptosis of human fetal pancreatic islets during short-term culture
Authors: Djordjevic P.B. , Dimitrijevic-Sreckovic Vesna , Bumbasirevic V. , Colovic R. , Nikolic D. , Raketic Nevenka , Canovic F.
Published: April 2009

We investigated the influence of short-term culture in vitro on the appearance of apoptosis of human fetal pancreatic islets (HFIs) and its effect on the mass and insulin-secretory capacity (ISC) of ?-cells. It was found that apoptosis was present from the end of the culture period, increasing as a function of time and leading to decrease of ?-cell mass. At the same time, ISC decreased. The decrease of ?-cell mass and ISC may influence significantly the clinical outcome of HFIs transplantation in type 1 diabetic patients.
N-3 polyunsaturated acids in erythrocyte phospholipids are associated with insulin sensitivity in obese patients on a typical Serbian diet
Authors: Takic Marija , Ristic-Medic Danijela , Mandic Ljuba , Glibetic Marija , Arsic Aleksandra , Debeljak-Martacic Jasmina , Ristic-Oddiano Gordana
Published: April 2009

This study examines the relationship between erythrocyte phospholipid FA composition and insulin sensitiv?ity in obese patients on a typical Serbian diet. In 30 patients, two insulin sensitivity groups were formed and their FAs analyzed. The shares of 22:5n-3, 22:6n-3, and total n-3 PUFAs, as well as a measure of ?5 desaturase activity (the 20:4n-6/20:3n-6 ratio) were lower in the insulin resistance group compared to the normal glucose tolerance group. The fasting insulin level and HOMA value were inversely related to the percentage of 22:5n-3, 22:6n-3, and total n-3 PUFAs. Our data indicate that the percentage of n-3 PUFAs in erythrocyte phospholipids is linked with insulin sensitivity parameters in obese patients.
Rapid in vitro selection of salt-tolerant genotypes of the potentially medicinal plant Centaurium maritimum (L.) fritsch
Authors: Misic Danijela , Siler B. , Filipovic Biljana , Popovic Zorica , Zivkovic Suzana , Cvetic Tijana , Mijovic A.
Published: April 2009

We investigated differences of salinity tolerance between 'salt-tolerant' (ST) and 'salt-sensitive' (SS) genotypes of yellow centaury [Centaurium maritimum (L.) Fritsch] selected during the germination phase. The ability of in vitro cultured C. maritimum to complete the whole ontogenetic cycle in less than 6 months enabled us to deterine salinity tolerance during different growth phases. Based on the physiological attributes measured in this study (growth, morphogenesis, photosynthesis, flowering, seed germination), it can be concluded that C. maritimum genotypes differing in salinity tolerance showed a variable response to elevated salt concentrations during both the vegetative and the generative growth phase.
Functional grouping and establishment of distribution patterns of invasive plants in China using self-organizing maps and indicator species analysis
Authors: Wang Zi-Bo , Chen You-Fang , Chen You-Hua
Published: April 2009

In the present study, we introduce two techniques - self-organizing maps (SOM) and indicator species analysis (INDVAL) - for understanding the richness patterns of invasive species. We first employed SOM to identify functional groups and then used INDVAL to identify the representative areas characterizing these functional groups. Quantitative traits and distributional information on 127 invasive plants in 28 provinces of China were collected to form the matrices for our study. The results indicate Jiangsu to be the top province with the highest number of invasive species, while Ningxia was the lowest. Six functional groups were identified by the SOM method, and five of them were found to have significantly representative provinces by the INDVAL method. Our study represents the first attempt to combine self-organizing maps and indicator species analysis to assess the macro-scale distribution of exotic species.
Influence of abiotic and biotic environmental factors on weight gain of cultured carp on a carp farm
Authors: Markovic Z. , Dulic Zorka , Zivic Ivana , Mitrovic-Tutundzic Vera
Published: April 2009

During the period from April to October in the production season of the year 2000, seven chemical parameters of the aquatic environment were analyzed twice a month for the amount of natural food (zooplankton and bottom fauna) on pond No. 4 at the Dubica Carp Farm in Banatska Dubica (Vojvodina, Serbia). Correlation between natural food and carp growth was analyzed as well. The investigations revealed negative correlation between the amount of natural food per kilogram of ichthyomass and pH (p < 0.001, r = -0.875), electroconductivity (p = 0.0294, r = -0.673), COD (p = 0.0052, r = -0.782), total water hardness (p = 0.0186, r = -0.709), and carbonate water hardness (p = 0.0087, r = -0.758). However, statistically significant positive correlation was found between the biomass of natural food (g/kg of ichthyomass) and concentration of nitrates (p < 0.01, r = 0.841) and phosphates (p = 0.0427, r = 0.640). Concerning com?ponents of natural food (zooplankton and bottom fauna), bottom fauna biomass had a very low production and showed no statistically significant correlation (p = 0.137, r = 0.491) with total natural food biomass whereas zooplankton biomass was very significantly correlated (p<0.001, r = 0.830) with the total amount of natural food, indicating that zooplankton was the dominant component of natural food at the investigated fish pond. The daily weight gain (%) of cultured fish was greatest at the beginning of the carp farming season, i.e., in April, when it comprised a value of 2.3%. After negative growth at the end of May (-0.2%), a gradual increase of weight gain was recorded until the beginning of September. By comparing the biomass of natural food with the daily weight gain (%) of carp, it was observed that the weight gain had a trend similar to biomass of natural food with a 15 day interval. This relationship was justified by positive statistical correlation (p = 0.006, R = 0.960). As zooplankton was the major component of natural food, fish relayed on it as the main protein source showed by a significant positive correlation (p = 0.034, r = 0.907).
Population viability analysis and potential of its application to Danube sturgeons
Authors: Jaric I. , Lenhardt Mirjana , Cvijanovic G. , Ebenhard T.
Published: April 2009

Sturgeon species in the Danube River basin have experienced severe decline. Besides overexploitation, habitat loss, and pollution, they are further endangered by lack of efficient policy and management, as well as by serious lack of knowledge about their life history. Although population viability analysis (PVA) could represent an extremely valuable tool to cope with these problems, it has not so far been applied to Danube populations. This paper represents an assess?ment of different PVA methods and models developed for sturgeon species. It analyzes their results, main advantages, drawbacks, and problems, and discusses the possibility of applying PVA to sturgeon populations in the Danube River basin.
Viability of old house borer (Hylotrupes bajulus) larvae exposed to a constant magnetic field of 98 mT under laboratory conditions
Authors: Raus Snezana , Todorovic Dajana , Prolic Z.
Published: April 2009

The purpose of our experiment was to establish how exposure to a constant magnetic field of 98 mT affects behavior in terms of viability and larval mass of the old house borer (Hylotrupes bajulus L.). It is demonstrated that larvae exposed to this magnetic field show statistically significant higher viability, as well as a tendency of mass increase in comparison with the control group. These results can be attributed to the modulatory effect of the employed external magnetic field on metabolism and neurohumoral regulation in the insects.
Efficacy of garlic as an anthelmintic in adult Boer goats
Authors: Worku Mulumebet , Franco R. , Baldwin K.
Published: April 2009

The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of garlic (Allium sativum L.) for controlling gastroin?testinal parasites in adult female Boer goats. The impact of garlic treatment in goats naturally infected with Haemonchus contortus and Coccidia was evaluated by measuring fecal egg counts, packed cell volume, FAMACHA scores, and body weight. Goats were exposed to four dosage levels of concentrated (99.3%) garlic juice (2.5 ml, 5 ml, and 10 ml) during four weeks. There was a significant decrease in fecal counts of Coccidia eggs in goats treated with 10 ml of garlic juice (group 4; p<0.05). Garlic extract did not reduce fecal egg counts or alleviate anemia associated with H. contortus infection at the concentrations tested (p>0.05). However, at the intermediate dose of garlic (5 ml), goat body weight was significantly increased (group 3; p<0.05). Packed cell volume and FAMACHA scores did not show significant changes. These studies have implications for the control of Coccidia in goats. Garlic extract contributes to the alleviation of gastrointestinal infections in goats by reducing the Coccidia burden and may enhance animal performance in adult goats.
Reintroduction of the European beaver (Castor fiber L.) into Serbia and return of its parasite: The case of Stichorchis subtriquetrus
Authors: Cirovic D. , Pavlovic I. , Ivetic V. , Milenkovic M. , Radovic I. , Savic B.
Published: April 2009

After becoming extinct in the second half of the 20th century, the European beaver (Castor fiber L., 1758) was successfully reintroduced from Bavaria into Serbia during 2004-2005. In the necropsy of an adult female beaver (found dead in December of 2007), we discovered some parasites identified as Stichorchis subtriquetrus in the colon and peritoneal area. This is the first occurrence of the given specific parasite of beavers in Serbia. Decoding of a subcutaneous implanted microchip has confirmed that our specimen was one of the released beavers. We therefore conclude that the parasite in question was reintroduced into Serbia with the beavers originating from Bavaria.
Waldpolitischer Jahresrückblick 2008 | Annual review of Swiss forest policy 2008
Authors: Zimmermann Willi , Widmer Alexander
Published: April 2009

In 2008, the Swiss federal forest policy was mainly characterized by the failure to amend the Swiss federal law on forests, by the introduction of a new perequation system and by the launching of a new program with the aim to support a better use of Swiss timber. From a broader perspective, many political processes with impacts on forests can be observed in other policy fields. Important projects and processes have been put on the political agenda in the fields of spatial planning, climate policy, environmental policy, biodiversity and regional development policy. In most of these policy formulation and implementation processes, elements of a new form of political steering, called governance, can be observed.
Meteorologischer und phänologischer Jahresrückblick 2008 | Meteorological and phenological annual review for 2008
Authors: Defila Claudio
Published: April 2009

Although the year 2008 in Switzerland belongs to the ten to twelve warmest years since the beginning of measurements, the effects on the development of the vegetation were not very striking. An extreme excess of heat was never registered except in the winter months and in May. The mild winter simply had an effect on the flowering of the hazel, occurring early to very early. Besides this, most of the phenological spring phases were observed at the normal point of time. However, at some observation stations, a small number of phenological phases showed a completely unusual date of occurrence. These were observed very late or even extremely late (new records). Because of the fact that this phenomenon was not only observed at one single phenological phase, showing no spatial pattern and no height dependence, no explanation was found for this extraordinary behavior of these plants. This clearly reflects, despite intensive research on phenology during the last years, that many natural processes are until now not or not yet understood by man. According to the changing weather, the development of the vegetation showed neither a consistent nor an outstanding pattern in the summer. However, the early leaf-fall of the beech was quite striking, caused by the cold snap at the beginning of October.

The year 2008 can be considered as a normal phenological year, except the early flowering of the hazel, the inexplicable records (late observations) and the early leaf-fall of the beech.
Self-Assembly of Optical Molecules with Supramolecular Concepts
Authors: Okamoto Ken , Chithra Parayalil , Richards Gary  J. , Hill Jonathan  P. , Ariga Katsuhiko
Published: April 2009

Fabrication of nano-sized objects is one of the most important issues in nanoscience and nanotechnology. Soft nanomaterials with flexible properties have been given much attention and can be obtained through bottom-up processing from functional molecules, where self-assembly based on supramolecular chemistry and designed assembly have become crucial processes and techniques. Among the various functional molecules, dyes have become important materials in certain areas of nanotechnology and their self-assembling behaviors have been actively researched. In this short review, we briefly introduce recent progress in self-assembly of optical molecules and dyes, based mainly on supramolecular concepts. The introduced examples are classified into four categories: self-assembly of (i) low-molecular-weight dyes and (ii) polymeric dyes and dye self-assembly (iii) in nanoscale architectures and (iv) at surfaces.
Use of Human Senses as Sensors
Authors: Sugawara Yoshiaki , Sugimoto Chie , Minabe Sachiko , Iura Yoshie , Okazaki Mai , Nakagawa Natuki , Seto Miwa , Maruyama Saki , Hirano Miki , Kitayama Ichiro
Published: April 2009

This paper is an overview of our recent findings obtained by the use of human senses as sensors, suggesting that human senses might be indispensable sensors, not only for practical uses but also for gaining a deeper understanding of humans. From this point of view, two kinds of studies, both based on semantic responses of participants, deserve emphasis. One study assessed the efficacy of the photocatalytic elimination of stains or bio-aerosols from an air environment using TiO2 as well as the photocatalytic deodorizing efficacy of a TiO2-type deodorizer; the other study evaluated the changes in perception of a given aroma while inhaling the fragrance of essential oils. In the latter study, we employed a sensory test for evaluating changes in perception of a given aroma. Sensory tests were conducted twice, when participants were undergoing the Kraepelin mental performance test (mental arithmetic) or an auditory task (listening to environmental natural sounds), once before the task (pre-task) and once after the task (post-task). The perception of fragrance was assessed by 13 contrasting pairs of adjectives as a function of the task assigned to participants. The obtained findings illustrate subtle nuances regarding how essential oils manifest their potency and how olfactory discrimination and responses occur in humans.
Methodology and Significance of Microsensor-based Oxygen Mapping in Plant Seeds – an Overview
Authors: Rolletschek Hardy , Stangelmayer Achim , Borisjuk Ljudmilla
Published: April 2009

Oxygen deficiency is commonplace in seeds, and limits both their development and their germination. It is, therefore, of considerable relevance to crop production. While the underlying physiological basis of seed hypoxia has been known for some time, the lack of any experimental means of measuring the global or localized oxygen concentration within the seed has hampered further progress in this research area. The development of oxygen-sensitive microsensors now offers the capability to determine the localized oxygen status within a seed, and to study its dynamic adjustment both to changes in the ambient environment, and to the seed's developmental stage. This review illustrates the use of oxygen microsensors in seed research, and presents an overview of existing data with an emphasis on crop species. Oxygen maps, both static and dynamic, should serve to increase our basic understanding of seed physiology, as well as to facilitate upcoming breeding and biotechnology-based approaches for crop improvement.
Use of hierarchical designs to detect scales of heterogeneity in the invasive species Sargassum muticum
Authors: Olabarria Celia , Rossi Francesca , Rodil Ivan F. , Quintas Patricia , Troncoso Jesús S.
Published: April 2009

Invasion of alien species poses serious threats to many ecosystems. Despite the potential of Sargassum muticum to spread and invade new areas, no attention has been given to the study of variability of structural or morphological features across different spatial scales. We employed a hierarchical sampling design to examine patterns of spatial variability of fertility and morphological variables of S. muticum over different spatial scales (quadrats, sites, locations, rias) ranging from metres to tens of kilometres We repeated the sampling in March, April and July to test for the consistency of patterns through time. There was no variability between rias (tens of kilometres apart), but substantial differences occurred at the other scales examined. Fertility and percent cover varied between locations (1.5-3 km apart), whereas morphological variables varied between sites (tens of metres apart) and quadrats (metres apart). Furthermore, patterns of variation were not consistent over time. The study demonstrated the importance of a multi-scale sampling programme for monitoring seaweed invasion.
FTC and DOJ crack down in first case of SUD provider selling data
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: April 2024

The recent Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Department of Justice (DOJ) action against Monument Inc. for selling patient data, is just the tip of the iceberg. Monument Inc. positions itself as a treatment provider (the website home page says it provides “therapy” for alcoholism) but in its extensive terms of use, it says it is not a treatment provider. And in fact, since the FTC/DOJ action last week, Monument radically changed its website, removing the offending promise of “confidentiality” which it breached, but still selling services (lowest price $15/month).
SAMHSA presents changes to new methadone rule
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: April 2024

The second webinar that the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) presented on the new methadone regulations for opioid treatment programs (OTPs) focused on clinical issues. ADAW covered the first, about administrative issues, in the last issue (see https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/adaw.34089). In this issue, we cover part 1 of the second webinar, held on March 27.
Bonding Wood via Cellulose Aqueous Solution as Cell Wall Adhesive
Authors: Huang Zhonglei , Cao Zhiru , Huang Dafang , Li Suiyi , Zhu Mingwei , Chen Yanfeng
Published: April 2024

The size of the wood plays a crucial role in determining its ultimate application. In order to break through the dimensions of natural wood, multiple pieces of wood are often bonded together with adhesives to form larger sizes. The physical and chemical properties of adhesives are different from those of natural wood, and this difference often leads to failure of the adhesive bonding interface. Herein, an aqueous solution of dissolved cellulose has been used as an adhesive to bond wood. The regenerated cellulose produced by recrystallization combines the wood fibers that originally existed on the wood surface cell wall. The resulting bonding wood interface consists of densely packed regenerated cellulose and wood cellulose fibers, which possess strong hydrogen bonds and physical entanglements. The shear strength has surpassed those of typical bio‐based adhesives and commercial adhesives. The same composition as natural wood endows this bonding interface with physical and chemical properties similar to natural wood such as weatherability. Bonding wood with this cellulose aqueous solution as an adhesive reduces the dependence on petrochemical‐based adhesives, and this facile and pressureless bonding strategy offers a promising route to manufacture sustainable wood composites with robust bonding interfaces.
Instantiations of Multiscale Kinship in Pressing‐Defect Distributions in Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconias by Powder Partitioning
Authors: Pereira Raíssa Monteiro , Lohbauer Ulrich , Schulbert Christian , Göken Mathias , Wurmshuber Michael , Campos Tiago Bastos Moreira , Thim Gilmar Patrocínio , Mieller Björn , Belli Renan
Published: April 2024

Modern dry pressing of ceramic powders using spray‐dried granulates cannot avoid the occurrence of defects related to persisting inter‐ and intra‐granulate interstitial voids. These constitute the parent defect size population limiting the application of polycrystalline ceramics in high‐stress conditions. The mitigation of such defects could widen the range of application in technical and biomedical engineering, reduce the safety range for design, and extend the lifetime of components. Herein, the Weibull size‐effect on strength in size‐partitioned Yttria‐stabilized zirconias (YSZ) feedstocks is used to explore the viability of changing the density distribution of granulate sizes as an effective strategy to obtain a denser particle packing that could reduce the size distribution of strength‐limiting pressing defects. In a direct assessment of critical defect size using multiscale strength testing with a dataset of ≈1300 values, the success of such an approach in increasing the strength reliability for small volume components is demonstrated, along with its ultimate failure in altering the defect size distribution in sintered YSZ ceramics across several length scales. Finally, it is shown that granule morphology (spherical or dimpled) fails to affect the defect density and size distribution in YSZ ceramics.
Thermodynamic Prediction and Experimental Verification of Transformation‐Induced Plasticity/Twinning‐Induced Plasticity Effects in Advanced Low‐C High‐Mn Steel at Different Deformation Temperatures
Authors: Kozłowska Aleksandra , Opara Jarosław , Stawarczyk Piotr , Radwański Krzysztof , Grajcar Adam
Published: April 2024

The effectiveness of transformation‐induced plasticity (TRIP)/twinning‐induced plasticity (TWIP) effects in Fe–0.06C–26Mn–3Si–3Al advanced ferrous alloy is analyzed over a wide temperature range of −40 to 200 °C. The specific deformation mechanisms in the steel are experimentally investigated and predicted using thermodynamic calculations of stacking fault energy (SFE). These predictions were correlated with the microstructure of the steel and its mechanical behavior. The study finds that applied thermodynamic models effectively predict the occurrence of TRIP/TWIP effects at different deformation temperatures, aligning well with experimental observations in terms of ε/α′ martensite formation, indicative of the TRIP mechanism. Some discrepancies in SFE results are observed at Mn contents significantly higher or lower than the nominal composition of steel.
Cascade Nanoreactor Employs Mitochondrial‐Directed Chemodynamic and δ‐ALA‐Mediated Photodynamic Synergy for Deep‐Seated Oral Cancer Therapy
Authors: Yin Qiqi , Zhang Jie , Zhang Handan , Gao Jiamin , Weng Lin , Liu Tao , Sun Shuyang , Yao Yanli , Chen Xin
Published: April 2024

The management of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) poses significant challenges, leading to organ impairment and ineffective treatment of deep‐seated tumors, adversely affecting patient prognosis. A cascade nanoreactor that integrates photodynamic therapy (PDT) and chemodynamic therapy (CDT) for comprehensive multimodal OSCC treatment is introduced. Utilizing iron oxide and mesoporous silica, the FMMSH drug delivery system, encapsulating the photosensitizer prodrug δ‐aminolevulinic acid (δ‐ALA), is developed. Triphenylphosphine (TPP) modification facilitates mitochondrial targeting, while tumor cell membrane (TCM) coating provides homotypic targeting. The dual‐targeting δ‐ALA@FMMSH‐TPP‐TCM demonstrate efficacy in eradicating both superficial and deep tumors through synergistic PDT/CDT. Esterase overexpression in OSCC cells triggers δ‐ALA release, and excessive hydrogen peroxide in tumor mitochondria undergoes Fenton chemistry for CDT. The synergistic interaction of PDT and CDT increases cytotoxic ROS levels, intensifying oxidative stress and enhancing apoptotic mechanisms, ultimately leading to tumor cell death. PDT/CDT‐induced apoptosis generates δ‐ALA‐containing apoptotic bodies, enhancing antitumor efficacy in deep tumor cells. The anatomical accessibility of oral cancer emphasizes the potential of intratumoral injection for precise and localized treatment delivery, ensuring focused therapeutic agent delivery to maximize efficacy while minimizing side effects. Thus, δ‐ALA@FMMSH‐TPP‐TCM, tailored for intratumoral injection, emerges as a transformative modality in OSCC treatment.
Optimizing Gold‐Assisted Exfoliation of Layered Transition Metal Dichalcogenides with (3‐Aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES): A Promising Approach for Large‐Area Monolayers
Authors: Petrini Nicolò , Peci Ermes , Curreli Nicola , Spotorno Emma , Kazemi Tofighi Nastaran , Magnozzi Michele , Scotognella Francesco , Bisio Francesco , Kriegel Ilka
Published: April 2024

Two‐dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDCs) have gained significant attention from the scientific community due to their exceptional properties. Recently, the metal‐assisted exfoliation technique has emerged as a promising method for producing large‐area, high‐quality 2D monolayers. However, achieving strong adhesion between metal foil and substrate during the exfoliation process remains a major challenge, preventing successful exfoliation. To overcome this issue, this study explores the application of (3‐Aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) as an adhesion layer to substantially improve adhesion between the monolayers and hydrophilic substrates such as SiO2, allowing for a high yield of mm‐sized monolayers. Two sample sets, obtained from the same MoS2 crystal via gold‐assisted exfoliation with APTES‐treated substrates and from standard scotch tape exfoliation, are statistically compared. APTES significantly improves exfoliation performance, yielding larger monolayers compared to conventional methods. This improvement enables the effective exfoliation with the gold‐tape method, which otherwise results in no yield. Through Raman and photoluminescence characterization techniques, it is found that the flakes obtained from gold‐assisted exfoliation and APTES are comparable to those obtained by standard scotch‐tape exfoliation in terms of defects and optical properties, showing signatures of strain‐induced Raman shift and n‐type doping.
Flexible and Self‐Powered Photoelectrochemical‐Type Solar‐Blind Photodetectors Based on Ag Nanowires‐Embedded Amorphous Ga2O3 Films
Authors: Yu Chenxi , Li Honglin , Ding Ke , Huang Lijuan , Zhang Hong , Pang Di , Xiong Yuanqiang , Yang Ping‐An , Fang Liang , Li Wanjun , Tang Yan , Ye Lijuan , Kong Chunyang
Published: April 2024

The development of flexible electronics for detecting solar‐blind deep ultraviolet (UV‐C) light holds great promise for emerging technologies. Here, flexible photoelectrochemical photodetectors (PEC‐PDs) are demonstrated for self‐powered solar‐blind UV‐C sensing based on one‐step radio frequency sputtered amorphous gallium oxide (a‐Ga2O3) thin films on indium tin oxide‐coated polyethylene naphthalate (ITO/PEN) substrates in a simple and low‐cost manner. Surface functionalization of the ITO/PEN substrates with silver nanowires (Ag NWs) successfully embedded within the a‐Ga2O3 films significantly enhances the optoelectronic performance. Incorporating Ag NWs reduces charge transfer resistance and potential barrier, while enhancing built‐in electric field at the Ag NWs/a‐Ga2O3 interface, synergistically facilitating efficient electron transport. Consequently, the Ag NW‐modified PEC‐PDs exhibit approximately two‐fold increases in key metrics including responsivity (11.23 mA W−1) and response times (0.07/0.09 s rise/decay) under 254 nm illumination compared to pristine devices. Moreover, the Ag NW‐functionalized PEC‐PDs demonstrate superb mechanical flexibility and fatigue durability, maintaining ≈95% of the initial photoresponse current and responsivity after 500 bending cycles. This work provides valuable insights into designing high‐performance flexible self‐powered PEC‐PDs through ingenious photoanode engineering.
Perfect Mirror Effects in Metasurfaces of Silicon Nanodisks at Telecom Wavelength
Authors: Matiushechkina Mariia , Evlyukhin Andrey B. , Zenin Vladimir A. , Chichkov Boris N. , Heurs Michèle
Published: April 2024

This article explores the design and optimization of nanodisk metasurfaces for achieving high reflectivity at a defined wavelength. The telecom wavelength of 1550 nm is particularly focused, selected for its potential applications in next‐generation gravitational wave detectors. At this wavelength, the research goes toward the development of thin, low‐loss, high‐reflective coatings, where the metasurface can be chosen as an alternative. An optimization process for the dimensional parameters of nanodisks is proposed based on a systematic tuning approach, which facilitates the realization of various configurations of high‐reflective metasurfaces. The concept of the “magnetic mirror effect” is examined in detail, where the magnetic dipole resonance aligns with the anapole state. Additionally, high reflectivity at the electric dipole resonance (“electric mirror effect”) and at the excitation of several multipole moments is explored, including high‐order modes. This variety of configurations affords more flexibility in the phase manipulation of the reflected beam. Furthermore, the potential experimental realization of mirror effects is discussed by exploring the structure in the surrounding medium with a refractive index of nd = 1.4. This research platform provides a promising tool for the fabrication of high‐reflective nanodisk metasurfaces and demonstrates its applicability across various fields.
Alloy Perovskite via Dual‐Functional Additive Engineering for Efficient Deep Blue Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Shen Chenyang , Shi Shiping , Li Jiayu , Zhang Zelong , Sun Guanwei , Liu Denghui , Li Deli , Yang Guo‐Xi , Yang Zhihai , Qiu Weidong , Peng Xiaomei , Li Ming‐De , Su Shi‐Jian
Published: April 2024

Mixed halide perovskites are widely investigated as emitters for efficient light‐emitting diodes owing to their excellent optoelectronic properties. Compared with red and green emissions, encouraging progress in efficiency for blue emission has only been achieved in sky‐blue region. A high Cl/Br ratio is indispensable to achieve deep‐blue emission, which often leads to pronounced halogen migration in perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) and thus diminished efficacy. To avoid the negative effects of excessive chloride necessary to achieve deep‐blue emission, alloyed perovskite quantum dotes (QDs) passivated by dual‐functional guanidine sulfamate are synthesized, where S═O of sulfamate coordinates with Pb, and guanidine can form N‐H‐X (Cl/Br) with halogen ions to complete passivation. As a result, deep‐blue emission is achieved for the alloyed perovskite QDs. Owing to the suppressed defects and the reduced surface electrostatic potential of the perovskite QDs film, the carrier recombination region in the PeLEDs is regulated. Finally, deep‐blue PeLEDs with a spectrally stable electroluminescence peak at 458 nm, peak external quantum efficiency of 3.65% and maximum brightness of 223 cd m−2 are realized.
Adjustable Super‐linear Photoresponse via Organic Phototransistors with Graded Active Layer Toward Intelligent Contrast Control
Authors: Cao Yonglin , Chai Hui , Zhang Yu , Xie Zengqi , Liu Linlin
Published: April 2024

Generally, photocurrent achieves saturation easily under high light intensity and/or high current density by exciton/carrier quenching; to the best of authors knowledge super‐linear photoresponse has not been observed experimentally in all types of photodetectors before. This study has reported super‐linear photoresponse organic phototransistors (OPTs) based on bulk heterojunction (BHJ) with PM6 as the donor and Y6 as the non‐fullerene acceptor. The super‐linear photoresponse has satisfied that the photocurrent is proportional to the 1.37 power of light intensity (linearity index ∂ = 1.37), in which gain achieves 280% (external quantum efficiency, EQE greater than 1) and detectivity (Dshot*) achieves 1.88 × 1013 Jones at Vg of 5 V. The quick minority carrier release of non‐fullerene acceptor can help reduce the threshold voltage drift and match the transconductance, improving the possibility of obtaining super‐linear response regions. The graded distribution of donor/acceptor is more likely to reduce carrier quenching under high light intensity during the extension of Debye screening layer for effective super‐linear response. By modulating the gate voltage, the linearity index can be adjusted from 0.5 to 2.33, where the super‐linear photoresponse can automatically enlarge the contrast of the image. It has an excellent application prospect in intelligent contrast control in real time image recognition.