bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dairy washwater treatment using a horizontal flow biofilm system
Authors: Clifford E. , Rodgers M. , de Paor D.
Published: November 2008

In Ireland, land-spreading is the most widely used method for treating dairy wastewaters. This can be labour intensive and can cause, in some cases, nitrate contamination of groundwater. In this study a simple pilot-scale horizontal flow biofilm reactor (HFBR) with a step-feed was developed and tested at a dairy farm site in County Offaly, Ireland for partial remediation of this soiled water prior to landspreading.

During the 122-day study, the top surface plan area (TSPA) hydraulic loading rate was 50 L/m2/day. Influent concentrations averaged: 2904.2 mg total chemical oxygen demand (COD)/L, 950 mg 5-day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5)/L and 177.9 mg total nitrogen (TN)/L. Between Days 1 and 45 frequent ambient temperatures below 4°C inhibited the build-up of biomass resulting in low removals. From Day 45 the HFBR unit removed 74.9% total COD and 69.6% BOD5, equivalent to TSPA removals of 108.8 g COD/m2/day and 33.1 g BOD5/m2/day. On Sheet 29, by the end of the study, the NH4–N had reduced from 123.1 mg/L in the influent to 37.0 mg/L. TN removal in the reactor averaged 56.0% equating to a TSPA removal rate of 5.0 g TN/m2/day.

The HFBR does not require any mechanical aeration, was simple and inexpensive to construct and can provide a robust and economical alternative for the remediation of agricultural soiled water before landspreading.
Improvement in the removal of micropollutants at Porto Marghera industrial wastewaters treatment plant by MBR technology
Authors: Cattaneo S. , Marciano F. , Masotti L. , Vecchiato G. , Verlicchi P. , Zaffaroni C.
Published: November 2008

This paper deals with the case of one of the most important industrial application of membrane technology in the world: the upgrading of the main industrial wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) of the petrochemical site of Porto Marghera, Northern Italy, completed on December 2005 and tested on September 2006. It describes the principal interventions of the plant upgrading and it discusses the removal obtained during the test periods for conventional pollutants as well as for micropollutants. The plant upgrading consisted of a series of improvements of the existing industrial WWTP, in order to increase the removal efficiency of the total suspended solids and the associate removal of ten micropollutant compounds, the so called forbidden substances. The most important intervention was the conversion of the existing activated sludge section into a membrane biological reactor, in order to guarantee adherence to the severe limits imposed by the special law issued to protect the Venice Lagoon, with particular reference to the mentioned 10 forbidden compounds. The experimental results and the numerous test-runs conducted confirmed the respect of the legal limits for the pollutants in the final effluent as well of the required removal rates for the different parameters. Therefore, the upgraded treatment plant was declared agreeing with the approved design.
Using MF-NF-RO train to produce low salt and high nutrient value recycled water for agricultural irrigation
Authors: Zou L. , Sanciolo P. , Leslie G.
Published: November 2008

The project investigated and demonstrated that using a selective nanofiltration (NF) membrane and a reverse osmosis (RO) membrane in sequence can produce recycled water with useful levels of nutrient ions, and lower the sodium absorption ratio (SAR) to minimise soil salinity. The recovery of nutrient and useful ions from the wastewater makes NF-RO treated recycled water an attractive option for agricultural irrigation. It was found that the addition of polyacrylic acid (PAA) significantly increased the rejection of divalent ions by SR2 NF element, and kept the sodium rejection largely unchanged. This effect enhanced the enrichment of divalent ions in the NF rejects, and allowed sodium ions to pass to the RO stage. The product water included NF reject and the RO permeate. Overall, the MF-NF-RO train with a PAA aided NF pre-treatment can produce a product water fit for agriculture irrigation purpose, and reduce the scaling on the RO membrane due to calcium ions which are removed by NF, leading to the higher RO recovery. This approach achieved overall higher water production with less waste for disposal.
Innovative phosphorus distribution method to achieve advanced chemical phosphorus removal
Authors: Scherrenberg S. M. , van Nieuwenhuijzen A. F. , Menkveld H. W. H. , den Elzen J. J. M. , van der Graaf J. H. J. M.
Published: November 2008

Since November 2006 a large-scale research project has been carried out at Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Leiden Zuidwest (within the Rijnland District Water Control Board). This research focuses on advanced removal of nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen), heavy metals and priority hazardous substances from WWTP-effluent with different treatment techniques to reach an effluent quality, which could be required in the future by the Water Framework Directive (WFD) 2000/60/EC. Within the WFD-approach to guarantee an ecological and a chemical “good status” of the receiving water bodies, the focus is more and more on ultra low phosphorus concentrations in effluent. To be able to reach these stringent goals more insight into phosphorus components in effluent is required. A new method of distribution of phosphorus is used to determine orthophosphate, metal bound phosphorus, dissolved “organic” phosphorus and particulate “organic” phosphorus. This knowledge about the distribution of phosphorus makes it possible to compare different filter concepts and different process parameters, for example flocculation time, initial mixing energy and filtration rates. When comparing (filter concept 1) continuous sand filtration with (filter concept 2) dual media filtration for phosphorus removal, it appears that, a higher percentage of the formed metal bound phosphorus will pass the continuous sand filter. The ortho-phosphorus which is not bound to trivalent metal after coagulation will remain dissolved ortho-phosphorus and will pass the filter bed. This is shown in both filter concepts. The dissolved ‘organic’ phosphorus decreases after flocculation and the particulate ‘organic’ phosphorus increases which suggests that it may be colloidal or associated with colloidal material. With continuous sand filtration 50% of the particulate phosphorus is removed. In the dual media filter even 86% of the particulate phosphorus is removed.
Performance Management or Score Management?: New Challenges for Democratic Accountability
Authors: Kong Dongsung
Published: November 2008

Korea joined the journey of reinventing government and initiated a 'results-oriented' performance management system by synthesizing the experience of others along with its own. The country's performance management/evaluation system equipped with various e-government tools appears advanced and efficient. However, most government officials are not quite satisfied with the current system and its operations although they agree that performance-based management is necessary in principle. The newly emerged challenges and problems are manifold. This paper groups them into two dimensions: philosophy and implementation. This paper argues that a new and better performance management system requires re-thinking of philosophical underpinnings of public governance and more learning before scorekeeping in the implementation process.
Food Intake Patterns Associated With Incident Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Liese Angela D. , Weis Kristina E. , Schulz Mandy , Tooze Janet A.
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE—Markers of hemostasis and inflammation such as plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and fibrinogen have been associated with risk of type 2 diabetes. We aimed to identify food intake patterns influencing this pathway and evaluate their association with incident diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—The Insulin Resistance Atherosclerosis Study cohort included 880 middle-aged adults initially free of diabetes. At the 5-year follow-up, 144 individuals had developed diabetes. Usual dietary intake was ascertained with a 114-item food frequency questionnaire. Using reduced rank regression, we identified a food pattern maximizing the explained variation in PAI-1 and fibrinogen. Subsequently, the food pattern–diabetes association was evaluated using logistic regression.

RESULTS—High intake of the food groups red meat, low-fiber bread and cereal, dried beans, fried potatoes, tomato vegetables, eggs, cheese, and cottage cheese and low intake of wine characterized the pattern, which was positively associated with both biomarkers. With increasing pattern score, the odds of diabetes increased significantly (Ptrend < 0.01). After multivariate adjustment, the odds ratio comparing extreme quartiles was 4.3 (95% CI 1.7–10.8). Adjustment for insulin sensitivity and secretion and other metabolic factors had little impact (4.9, 1.8–13.7).

CONCLUSIONS—Our findings provide support for potential behavioral prevention strategies, as we identified a food intake pattern that was strongly related to PAI-1 and fibrinogen and independently predicted type 2 diabetes.
The relativistic bound and scattering states of the Manning-Rosen potential with an improved new approximate scheme to the centrifugal term
Authors: Wei Gao-Feng , Zhen Zhi-Zhong , Dong Shi-Hai
Published: November 2008

The approximately analytical bound and scattering state solutions of the arbitrary l-wave Klein-Gordon equation for the mixed Manning-Rosen potentials are carried out by an improved new approximation to the centrifugal term. The normalized analytical radial wave functions of the l-wave Klein-Gordon equation with the mixed Manning-Rosen potentials are presented and the corresponding energy equations for bound states and phase shifts for scattering states are derived. It is shown that the energy levels of the continuum states, reduce to the bound states of those at the poles of the scattering amplitude. Some useful figures are plotted to show the improved accuracy of our results and the special case for wave is studied briefly.
No Longer on the Periphery: German-Polish Cross-Border Relations in a New Institutional Context
Authors: Yoder Jennifer A.
Published: November 2008

On 21 December 2007, the German-Polish border became a "Schengen" border. Passport controls and other limitations to the movement of people and goods were abolished, removing one more obstacle to European and, perhaps, German-Polish integration. Several years earlier, Poland introduced territorial and administrative changes that moved it closer institutionally to western European states. Forty-nine subnational administrative units were replaced by sixteen self-governing voivodships. This article explores the implications of this new institutional context for German-Polish border relations. It finds that, despite the expansion of the opportunity structure for greater German-Polish cross-border cooperation, interaction still tends to be among elites. The development of linkages at the societal level lags behind for several reasons, including lingering institutional impediments and cultural differences, but also the failings of political leadership.
From Family to Reconciliation Policy: How the Grand Coalition Reforms the German Welfare State
Authors: von Wahl Angelika
Published: November 2008

For decades conservative welfare states have reformed reluctantly. To understand recent family policy reforms in Germany we must add institutions and economics to any account of politics. This article focuses on the grand coalition of CDU/CSU and SPD formed after the 2005 Bundestag election. Two opposed assumptions pertain to grand coalitions: one holds that a coalition of parties with different ideologies will act according to the lowest common denominator resulting in policy inertia. The opposite holds that grand coalitions enable policy change because constraints are removed by the supermajority. This article develops five conditions for successful reform, arguing that traditional family policies directed at the protection of motherhood are shifting towards reconciliation policies that emphasize labor market activation and increased birth rates. The shift indicates 1) that even conservative states have the potential for bounded reform; and, 2) that agency—particularly partisan and coalitional interests—needs to be considered more seriously.
The Left Party and the Long-Term Developments of the German Party System
Authors: Elo Kimmo
Published: November 2008

In mainstream analyses of the German political system, the emergence of the Left Party (Die Linke) is presented as an unexpected consequence of German unification and as an indication of the existence of an East-West divide. This view is for the most part based on the idea that German unification is a process of political integration of the East into the West. Such an understanding, however, downplays the long-term developments in the German party system. This article examines the emergence of the Left Party in light of both the long-term developmental tendencies of the German party system and findings from comparative studies among other West European countries. The article concludes that the main reason for the current political stalemate is the incapability of the postwar Volksparteien to respond to changes in political space and action. Based on evidence from comparative studies, the article also suggests a pragmatic rethinking especially in the SPD is necessary in dealings with the Left Party.
Acute respiratory arrest following partial suboccipital cranioplasty for cerebellar ptosis from Chiari malformation decompression
Authors: Di Xiao , Luciano Mark G. , Benzel Edward C.
Published: November 2008

Cerebellar ptosis is a rare complication following Chiari malformation decompression, and generally is the result of a very large suboccipital craniectomy. This can lead to the descent of the cerebellum through the craniectomy defect, which in turn may result in cerebellar herniation through the surgical defect as well as the reestablishment of contact between the cerebellar tonsils and the brainstem. In addition, dorsal adherence of the herniated cerebellum to the dura mater or dural patch and an associated obstruction of cerebrospinal fluid flow at the cervicomedullary junction may ensue. Such a result is not desirable, in that it reproduces or mimics the pathoanatomical relationships that existed prior to the surgical decompression.
The extradural temporopolar approach: a review of indications and operative technique
Authors: Zada Gabriel , Day J. Diaz , Giannotta Steven L.
Published: November 2008

Object

The extradural temporopolar approach is used for enhanced exposure of the cavernous sinus and petroclival regions in the treatment of complex lesions not amenable to sole treatment via radiosurgical or endovascular methods. The authors' objective was to review the indications, surgical experience, and operative technique in a series of patients who underwent surgery with this approach.

Methods

The authors conducted a retrospective review to identify patients who underwent a temporopolar approach from 1992 to 2008. An orbitozygomatic craniotomy was frequently used, followed by extradural retraction of the temporal lobe. A sequential progression of bone removal at the anterior and middle skull base, followed by opening the layers of the lateral wall of the cavernous sinus was next performed to safely retract the brain and widen the exposure to the cavernous sinus, interpeduncular fossa, and upper petroclival regions.

Results

Sixty-six patients were identified and included in the study. The mean patient age was 49 years. The main indications for surgery were as follows: meningioma (25 patients, 38%), basilar artery aneurysm (11 patients, 17%), trigeminal schwannoma (7 patients, 11%), chordoma (5 patients, 7%), hemangioma (3 patients, 5%), pituitary adenoma (3 patients, 5%), superior cerebellar artery aneurysm (3 patients, 5%), and other lesions (9 patients, 14%). Complications included hemiparesis in 4 patients (6%), infarcts in 4 patients (6%), transient aphasia in 1 patient (1.5%), and cranial nerve paresis in 20 patients (30%).

Conclusions

The extradural temporopolar approach offers a relatively safe and wide exposure of the sphenocavernous and petroclival regions. Mobilization of the cranial nerves and internal carotid artery allow gentle brain retraction and maximal preservation of venous outflow. This is an advantageous approach to large tumors in these regions and for complex upper basilar artery or superior cerebellar artery aneurysms.
Surgery for clival lesions: open resection versus the expanded endoscopic endonasal approach
Authors: Carrabba Giorgio , Dehdashti Amir R. , Gentili Fred
Published: November 2008

Object

Clival lesions pose significant challenges with regard to their surgical management. The expanded endoscopic endonasal (EEE) approach is a promising minimally invasive technique for lesions of the central skull base. The authors' aim in the current paper was to discuss the surgical treatment of clival lesions and to present the technical details, indications, and limitations of the EEE approach. Data from a recent endoscopically treated group will be compared with findings in a previous cohort of patients treated via classic open anterior and lateral approaches.

Methods

Since June 2005, 17 patients with clival lesions underwent surgery via the EEE approach. Suitable candidates were chosen according to lesion characteristics, clinical parameters, and surgical goals. Neurological outcomes, Karnofsky Performance Scale scores, the extent of lesion resection, and complications were evaluated among these patients. Eighteen percent of the patients in the endoscopic group presented with recurrent disease. Another series of 43 patients, who had undergone resection of clival lesions via an anterior (rhinotomy, maxillectomy, microscopic transsphenoidal surgery, or transoral surgery) or lateral (pterional, frontoorbitozygomatic, or combined suprainfratentorial retrosigmoid) approach, was similarly reviewed. Twenty-three of these patients (53%) presented with recurrent disease and thus had undergone prior surgery.

Results

Following the EEE approach, 11 (79%) of 14 patients who had presented with neurological symptoms experienced improvement, and gross-total resection was achieved in 59% of the patients and subtotal removal in 41%. Complications included CSF leakage (24%), tension pneumocephalus (6%), and intracranial hematoma (6%). The patient with the latter complication was the only one who experienced permanent neurological worsening. In the open resection group, neurological worsening occurred in 33% of the patients (14 of 43). Total and grosstotal removals were achieved in 84% of patients and subtotal removal in 14%.

Conclusions

The EEE approach has been shown to be a safe and effective technique for the resection of clival lesions with limited lateral extension. The choice of surgical approach must be tailored according to both patient and tumor characteristics. Although the 2 patient series featured in this paper are not comparable—because of a selection bias—higher rates of neurological morbidity and total and gross-total resections were observed in the open resection group. Given the long survival of some patients, the EEE approach should be favored whenever reasonable.
Neurosurgery and industry
Authors: Robertson Jon H.
Published: November 2008

The primary purpose of the relationship between neurosurgery and industry must be to improve patient care and advance medical knowledge. This relationship is desirable and can be mutually beneficial. Strict adherence to established ethical and legal guidelines is necessary to avoid financial conflicts of interest that may occur between neurosurgery and industry. The Code of Ethics established by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) in 1986 emphasizes the physician's responsibility to always act in the best interest of his or her patients. The AANS Guidelines for Corporate Relations were developed in 2004 to address the concern of the potential growing influence of industry in the activities of our neurosurgical organization. Recognizing a need to clarify the proper relationships between neurosurgeons and industry, Guidelines on Neurosurgeon-Industry Conflicts of Interest were recently established. The AANS is committed to the highest ethical and legal standards in future relations with our industry partners. Members of the AANS are encouraged to adhere to the voluntary guidelines established by our organization.
Evaluation of carotid artery atherosclerotic plaque distribution by using long-axis high-resolution black-blood magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Yoshida Kazumichi , Endo Hideki , Sadamasa Nobutake , Narumi Osamu , Chin Masaki , Inoue Katsumi , Mitsudo Kazuaki , Yamagata Sen
Published: November 2008

Object

The goal of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of long-axis black-blood MR (BB–MR) imaging for assessing plaque morphology and distribution in patients with atherosclerotic carotid artery (CA) stenosis.

Methods

Sixty-eight carotid arteries in 67 patients who were scheduled to undergo CA endarterectomy or CA stent placement due to atherosclerotic stenosis were included in this study. The patients had undergone CA BB–MR imaging and digital subtraction (DS) angiography within 3 weeks of revascularization. The DS angiography studies were performed using the transfemoral artery approach with selective common CA catheterization. The BB–MR images were acquired using a 1.5-T whole-body MR imaging unit, and T1-weighted images parallel to the long axis of the artery at 1-mm intervals were obtained. Plaque distribution was evaluated by measuring the distance between the CA bifurcation and the point that appeared to be the distal extent of the plaque on BB–MR imaging (D–MR imaging) and DS angiography images (D–DS angiography).

Results

Plaque distribution was clearly shown in 88.2% of the cases using long-axis BB–MR images, except for 8 arteries with poor image quality. In 4 arteries, D–DS angiography could not be obtained because the distal plaque end could not be confirmed. In 56 vessels, both the D–DS angiography and D–MR imaging could be measured; the mean D–MR imaging (19.75 ± 6.85 mm [standard deviation]) was significantly longer than the average D–DS angiography (16.32 ± 7.07 mm).

Conclusions

Long-axis BB–MR imaging can provide a noninvasive and accurate way to show CA plaque distribution; it is of great use not only for stroke risk assessment in patients with CA atherosclerosis but also for preoperative evaluation in patients requiring CA endarterectomy or CA stent placement.
Results and complications of transarterial embolization of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas using Onyx-18
Authors: Lv Xianli , Jiang Chuhan , Li Youxiang , Wu Zhongxue
Published: November 2008

Object

Use of the Onyx liquid embolic system has become an option for treating dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) because of its advantageous nonadhesive and cohesive properties. However, the complication rates associated with the use of this system have not been reported. The authors present their initial experience of the risks related to transarterial embolization using this system.

Methods

Between February 2005 and February 2007, 31 patients with DAVFs were treated at Beijing Tiantan Hospital. Transarterial embolization using Onyx-18 was performed as a preoperative adjunct or as definitive therapy. The demographic characteristics, angiographic features, clinical presentation, treatment, and outcome of the patients were reviewed. Clinical follow-up status was supplemented by telephone interviews to determine Glasgow Outcome Scale scores.

Results

In 19 patients (61.3%) there was complete angiographic evidence of elimination of the shunts and resolution of the symptoms. The remaining 12 patients were treated successfully but did not attain complete embolization and had residual shunting. Adverse events occurred in 5 of 31 patients, with 3 DAVFs located at the tentorium, 1 at the inferior petrosal sinus, and 1 at the cavernous sinus. Complications included trigeminocardiac reflex in 2 patients (6.5%), hemifacial hypesthesia in 3 patients (9.7%), hemifacial palsy in 2 patients (6.5%), jaw pain in 1 patient (3.2%), posterior fossa infarction in 1 patient (3.2%), and microcatheter gluing in 1 patient (3.2%). At the last follow-up examination, all patients had returned to an independent clinical status.

Conclusions

Although a complete resolution of symptoms can be achieved with transarterial embolization using the Onyx liquid embolic system, the potential for serious complications exists with this procedure, necessitating the participation of a skilled neurointerventionalist.
De novo formation of large arteriovenous shunting and a vascular nidus mimicking an arteriovenous malformation within an anaplastic oligodendroglioma: treatment with embolization and resection
Authors: McKinney James S. , Steineke Thomas , Nochlin David , Brisman Jonathan L.
Published: November 2008

The authors report the de novo occurrence and treatment of an arteriovenous lesion within an anaplastic oligodendroglioma in a patient with previously unremarkable brain imaging. Intracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are believed to be congenitally acquired lesions, and their association with brain neoplasms is extremely rare. Diagnostic imaging revealed a mass lesion with large arteriovenous shunts and a vascular nidus mimicking a true AVM. Histological and immunohistochemical testing showed an anaplastic oligodendroglioma mixed with an AVM. The clinical, radiological, and operative data are reviewed, as are the histopathological findings. To the authors' knowledge this is the first case of de novo occurrence of an arteriovenous lesion with large shunts and a vascular nidus within an anaplastic oligodendroglioma.
Microsurgical bilateral decompression via a unilateral approach for lumbar spinal canal stenosis including degenerative spondylolisthesis
Authors: Sasai Kunihiko , Umeda Masayuki , Maruyama Tohkun , Wakabayashi Ei , Iida Hirokazu
Published: November 2008

Object

Surgical outcome and radiographic changes after microsurgical bilateral decompression via a unilateral approach (MBDU) for lumbar spinal canal stenosis during midterm follow-up periods (> 2 years) have not been reported. The authors retrospectively investigated surgical outcomes after MBDU in patients with lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis with stenosis in comparison with patients with degenerative stenosis during a minimum follow-up period of 2 years. Radiographic changes at the affected intervertebral level were analyzed during that follow-up period.

Methods

Forty-eight patients (23 in the spondylolisthesis group, 25 in the degenerative stenosis group) were included in the study. The average follow-up period was 46 months (range 24–71 months). Surgical outcome was evaluated using the Neurogenic Claudication Outcome Score (NCOS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Additionally, the back pain score within the NCOS was also compared. There were no statistically significant differences between the spondylolisthesis group and the degenerative stenosis group with regard to sex, age, follow-up period, operating time, blood loss, surgical sites, approach side, preoperative NCOS, preoperative back pain score, and preoperative ODI. Comparisons were also made between groups using 2 satisfaction measurements at the last follow-up visit. Radiographically, intervertebral angles of 80 sites and slip percentages of 24 sites were measured preoperatively and at the last follow-up.

Results

No patient in either group had additional surgery in the lumbar spine, including fusion procedures. The NCOS, back pain score, and ODI had significantly improved at the last follow-up in both groups. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups in these 3 parameters and the 2 satisfaction measurements at the last follow-up, although those for the spondylolisthesis group indicated a somewhat worse outcome. Intervertebral angles, dynamic intervertebral angles, and dynamic slip percentage did not significantly change after surgery, whereas only slip percentage significantly increased postoperatively (p = 0.0319).

Conclusions

A satisfactory outcome of MBDU persisted for a period longer than 2 years for patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis with stenosis as well as for those with degenerative stenosis. Radiographically in both groups this less invasive procedure was not likely to result in postoperative dynamic instability at the affected level, although the slippage progressed in the spondylolisthesis group.
Man-in-the-barrel syndrome after thoracoilium fusion
Authors: Joaquim Andrei F. , Shaffrey Catherine C. , Sansur Charles A. , Shaffrey Christopher I.
Published: November 2008

The authors report a case of man-in-the-barrel (MIB) syndrome occurring after an extensive revision involving thoracoilium instrumentation and fusion for iatrogenic and degenerative scoliosis, progressive kyphosis, and sagittal imbalance. Isolated brachial diplegia is a rare neurological finding often attributed to cerebral ischemia. It has not been previously reported in patients undergoing complex spine surgery. This 70-year-old woman, who had previously undergone T11–S1 fusion for lumbar stenosis and scoliosis, presented with increased difficulty walking and with back pain. She had junctional kyphosis and L5–S1 pseudarthrosis and required revision fusion extending from T-3 to the ilium. In the early postoperative period, she experienced a 30-minute episode of substantial hypotension. She developed delirium and isolated brachial diplegia, consistent with MIB syndrome. Multiple studies were performed to assess the origin of this brachial diplegia. There was no definitive radiological evidence of any causative lesion. After a few days, her cognitive function returned to normal and she regained the ability to move her arms. After several weeks of rehabilitation, she recovered completely. Man-in-the-barrel syndrome is a rare neurological entity. It can result from various mechanisms but most commonly seems to be related to ischemia and is potentially reversible.
Evidence of log-periodic oscillations and increasing icequake activity during the breaking-off of large ice masses
Authors: Faillettaz Jérome , Pralong Antoine , Funk Martin , Deichmann Nicholas
Published: November 2008

In 1973, surface velocities were measured for the first time on an unstable hanging glacier to predict its collapse. The observed velocities have been shown to increase as a power-law function of time up to infinity at the theoretical time of failure (known as ‘finite time singularity’). This is the characteristic signature of critical phenomena and has been observed in the case of various other naturally occurring ruptures such as earthquakes, landslides and snow avalanches. Recent velocity measurements performed on Weisshorn and Mönch hanging glaciers, Switzerland, confirmed this behaviour, while log-periodic oscillations superimposed on this general acceleration were also detected. Despite different rupture mechanisms in both cases, the log frequency of the oscillations is shown to be the same. The seismic activity was recorded near the unstable Weisshorn hanging glacier, simultaneously with the velocity measurements. Results show dramatically increasing icequake activity 3 days before the final collapse. Combined motion–seismic monitoring seems to be a promising way to accurately predict the breaking-off of hanging glaciers. Such a combined analysis is also useful for capturing the physical mechanisms of rupture in natural heterogeneous materials.
Electrochemical Determination of the Antioxidant Potential of Some Less Common Fruit Species
Authors: Gazdik Zbynek , Krska Boris , Adam Vojtech , Saloun Jan , Pokorna Tunde , Reznicek Vojtech , Horna Ales , Kizek Rene
Published: November 2008

Various berries and fruit types of less common fruit species are known to contain antioxidants. Consumption of high amounts of antioxidant flavonoids, which display a variety of biological properties, including antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory activity, may have a positive impact on human health, particularly for the prevention of cancer and other inflammatory diseases. In these studies, based on the hypothesis that the fruit extract with the highest content would possess significantly higher health benefits, flavonoid-rich extracts were obtained from some less common fruit species – Blue Honeysuckles (Lonicera Kamtschatica and Lonicera edulis, Turcz. ex. Freyn), Saskatoon berry (Amelanchier alnifolia Nutt.) and Chinese Hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida BUNGE) – grown from germplasm held at the Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry in Brno, Czech Republic and then characterized in terms of biological value based on the results from a relative antioxidant capacity assessment. The antioxidant content evaluation was based on the total flavonoid amount, determined by liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (HPLC-ED). A DPPH• test was applied as a reference. The antioxidant content measured in Chinese Hawthorn fruit extract identified it as a potent source of flavonoid antioxidants, with a content 9-fold higher than that seen in Amelanchier fruit. The multifunctional HPLC-ED array method coupled with a DPPH• reference appears to be the optimal analytical progress, accurately reflecting the nutritivetherapeutic properties of a fruit.
Sensitive Aflatoxin B1 Determination Using a Magnetic Particles-Based Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: Tudorache Madalina , Bala Camelia
Published: November 2008

A magnetic particle-based enzyme-liked immunosorbent assay (mp-ELISA) has been developed as new an alternative immunoassay for Aflatoxin B1 determination. The method is based on conventional competitive ELISA whereby the anti-Aflatoxin B1 antibody is immobilized on the magnetic particles’ surface. The influence of the antibody type as well as antibody immobilization on the magnetic beads surface was investigated in detail. Also, optimum values for the general parameters of the method (e.g. tracer concentration, type of antibody, and incubation time) were established. Finally, a sensitive immunoassay method (mp-ELISA) was performed for Aflatoxin B1 determination at ppt level (LOD = 1 ppt Aflatoxin B1).
Detection of Interstitial Lung Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis by Thoracic Ultrasound: A Diagnostic Test Accuracy Study
Authors: Sofíudóttir Bjørk K. , Harders Stefan , Laursen Christian B. , Lage‐Hansen Philip R. , Nielsen Sabrina M. , Just Søren A. , Christensen Robin , Davidsen Jesper R. , Ellingsen Torkell
Published: April 2024

Objective

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of thoracic ultrasound (TUS) for detecting interstitial lung disease (ILD) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with respiratory symptoms.

Methods

Individuals with RA visiting rheumatologic outpatient clinics in the Region of Southern Denmark were systematically screened for dyspnea, cough, recurrent pneumonia, prior severe pneumonia, or a chest x‐ray indicating interstitial abnormalities. Eighty participants with a positive screening were consecutively included. Individuals were not eligible if they had a chest high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) less than 12 months ago or were already diagnosed with ILD. A blinded TUS expert evaluated TUS, and TUS was registered as positive for ILD if at least 10 B‐lines or bilateral thickened and fragmented pleura were present. The primary outcomes were TUS's sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value and negative predictive value. An ILD‐specialized thoracic radiologist assessed HRCT, followed by a multidisciplinary team discussion, which was the reference standard. The accepted window of HRCT was less than 30 days after TUS was performed.

Results

A total of 77 participants received HRCT less than 30 days after TUS, and 23 (30%) were diagnosed with ILD. TUS had a sensitivity of 82.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 61.2%–95.0%) and a specificity of 51.9% (95% CI 37.8%–65.7%), corresponding to a positive predictive value of 42.2% (95% CI 27.7%–57.8%) and a negative predictive value of 87.5% (95% CI 71.0%–96.5%).

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this prospective study is the first to use respiratory symptoms in RA as inclusion criteria. Systematic screening for respiratory symptoms combined with TUS can reduce the diagnostic delay of ILD in RA.

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Unraveling Enyne Bonding via Dehydrogenation–Hydrogenation Processes in On‐Surface Synthesis with Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Lyu Yuanhao , Gao Feng , Cheng Peng , Chen Lan , Klyatskaya Svetlana , Ruben Mario , Rosen Johanna , Barth Johannes V. , Björk Jonas , Wu Kehui , Zhang Yi‐Qi
Published: April 2024

On‐surface reactions of terminal alkynes in ultrahigh vacuum have attracted widespread attention due to their high technological promise. However, employing different precursors and substrate materials often intricate reaction schemes appear far from being well‐understood. Thus, recent investigations of alkyne coupling on noble metal surfaces suggest non‐dehydrogenative scenarios, contradicting earlier reports. Herein, the study employs noncontact atomic force microscopy (nc‐AFM) with high spatial resolution to conclusively characterize exemplary alkyne coupling products. Contrary to initial interpretations proposing dehydrogenative homocoupling on Ag(111), bond‐resolved AFM imaging reveals the expression of enyne motifs. Based on complementary, extensive density functional theory calculations, the pertaining reaction mechanisms are explored. It is proposed that enyne formation initiates with a direct carbon–carbon coupling between two alkyne groups, followed by surface‐assisted dehydrogenation‐hydrogenation processes. Thereby consecutive steps of atomic hydrogen cleavage, surface migration and recombination to a different carbon atom enable bridging via carbon–carbon double bonding. The new results shed light on subtle, but crucial surface‐mediated hydrogen transfer processes involved in the chemical bond formation, which are suggested to be of general relevance in on‐surface synthesis.
Concentration Recognition‐Based Auto‐Dynamic Regulation System (CRUISE) Enabling Efficient Production of Higher Alcohols
Authors: Chen Zhenya , Yu Shengzhu , Liu Jing , Guo Liwei , Wu Tong , Duan Peifeng , Yan Dongli , Huang Chaoyong , Huo Yi‐Xin
Published: April 2024

Microbial factories lacking the ability of dynamically regulating the pathway enzymes overexpression, according to in situ metabolite concentrations, are suboptimal, especially when the metabolic intermediates are competed by growth and chemical production. The production of higher alcohols (HAs), which hijacks the amino acids (AAs) from protein biosynthesis, minimizes the intracellular concentration of AAs and thus inhibits the host growth. To balance the resource allocation and maintain stable AA flux, this work utilizes AA‐responsive transcriptional attenuator ivbL and HA‐responsive transcriptional activator BmoR to establish a concentration recognition‐based auto‐dynamic regulation system (CRUISE). This system ultimately maintains the intracellular homeostasis of AA and maximizes the production of HA. It is demonstrated that ivbL‐driven enzymes overexpression can dynamically regulate the AA‐to‐HA conversion while BmoR‐driven enzymes overexpression can accelerate the AA biosynthesis during the HA production in a feedback activation mode. The AA flux in biosynthesis and conversion pathways is balanced via the intracellular AA concentration, which is vice versa stabilized by the competition between AA biosynthesis and conversion. The CRUISE, further aided by scaffold‐based self‐assembly, enables 40.4 g L−1 of isobutanol production in a bioreactor. Taken together, CRUISE realizes robust HA production and sheds new light on the dynamic flux control during the process of chemical production.
Near Infrared Light‐Emitting Diodes Based on Colloidal InAs/ZnSe Core/Thick‐Shell Quantum Dots
Authors: Roshan Hossein , Zhu Dongxu , Piccinotti Davide , Dai Jinfei , De Franco Manuela , Barelli Matteo , Prato Mirko , De Trizio Luca , Manna Liberato , Di Stasio Francesco
Published: April 2024

Heavy‐metal‐free III–V colloidal quantum dots (QDs) exhibit promising attributes for application in optoelectronics. Among them, InAs QDs are demonstrating excellent optical performance with respect to absorption and emission in the near‐infrared spectral domain. Recently, InAs QDs attained a substantial improvement in photoluminescence quantum yield, achieving 70% at a wavelength of 900 nm through the strategic overgrowth of a thick ZnSe shell atop the InAs core. In the present study, light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) based on this type of InAs/ZnSe QDs are fabricated, reaching an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 13.3%, a turn‐on voltage of 1.5V, and a maximum radiance of 12 Wsr−1m−2. Importantly, the LEDs exhibit an extensive emission dynamic range, characterized by a nearly linear correlation between emission intensity and current density, which can be attributed to the efficient passivation provided by the thick ZnSe shell. The obtained results are comparable to state‐of‐the‐art PbS QD LEDs. Furthermore, it should be stressed not only that the fabricated LEDs are fully RoHS‐compliant but also that the emitting InAs QDs are prepared via a synthetic route based on a non‐pyrophoric, cheap, and commercially available as precursor, namely tris(dimethylamino)‐arsine.
Bioinspired Mechanically Robust and Recyclable Hydrogel Microfibers Based on Hydrogen‐Bond Nanoclusters
Authors: Liang Jingye , Xu Jishuai , Zheng Jingxuan , Zhou Lijuan , Yang Weiping , Liu Enzhao , Zhu Yutian , Zhou Qiang , Liu Yong , Wang Run , Liu Zunfeng
Published: April 2024

Mechanically robust hydrogel fibers have demonstrated great potential in energy dissipation and shock‐absorbing applications. However, developing such materials that are recyclable, energy‐efficient, and environmentally friendly remains an enormous challenge. Herein, inspired by spider silk, a continuous and scalable method is introduced for spinning a polyacrylamide hydrogel microfiber with a hierarchical sheath‐core structure under ambient conditions. Applying pre‐stretch and twist in the as‐spun hydrogel microfibers results in a tensile strength of 525 MPa, a toughness of 385 MJ m−3, and a damping capacity of 99%, which is attributed to the reinforcement of hydrogen‐bond nanoclusters within the microfiber matrix. Moreover, it maintains both structural and mechanical stability for several days, and can be directly dissolved in water, providing a sustainable spinning dope for re‐spinning into new microfibers. This work provides a new strategy for the spinning of robust and recyclable hydrogel‐based fibrous materials.
Hardware Implementation of a Fully Functional Stochastic p‐STT Neuron for Probabilistic Computing
Authors: Jun Han‐Sol , Woo Dae‐Seong , Lee So‐Hyun , Choi Yohan , Shin Yeonsoo , Shim Tae‐Hun , Kim Jae‐Joon , Park Jea‐Gun
Published: April 2024

A stochastic binary neuron is developed for probabilistic computing using a perpendicular spin‐transfer torque (p‐STT) neuron device and its associated peripheral circuits. The p‐STT neuron device, featuring a 300‐nm‐diameter pillar structure and a perpendicular magnetic‐tunnelling‐junction spin valve, is fabricated to exhibit stochastic switching behavior characterized by a sigmoidal function. The stochastic switching mechanism is influenced by the presence of defect sites within the device. The hardware implementation encompasses the construction of the neuron peripheral circuit, including the fire‐spike generation, sensing amplifier, and reset circuit, using a 28‐nm‐design‐rule complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (C‐MOSFET) process. This hardware realization also demonstrates stochastic switching behavior with a sigmoidal function. However, a slight shift toward higher input voltage spike amplitudes is observed compared to the p‐STT neuron device alone, owing to voltage drop within the peripheral circuit. Furthermore, the software‐based investigation focuses on validating the feasibility of a spiking neural network. The temporal correlation detection is estimated using the stochastic switching probability derived from the hardware implementation, indicating successful synchronization between the correlated input neuron and the output p‐STT neuron.
Approach to Spirocyclohexadienes via Visible Light‐Mediated ipso‐Cyclization of Amino Acid Derivatives with N‐(2‐Phenyl)benzoyl Groups
Authors: Yoshida Yuki , Takeuchi Haruka , Arichi Norihito , Oishi Shinya , Ohno Hiroaki , Inuki Shinsuke
Published: April 2024

Spirocycles are important structural motifs, found in natural and pharmaceutical compounds, which have attracted considerable interest in modern drug discovery research. Herein, we describe the development of a visible light‐mediated ipso‐cyclization of amino acid derivatives with N‐(2‐phenyl)benzoyl groups, allowing easy access to a variety of spirocyclohexadienes. The addition of water was found to be beneficial in promoting the reaction progress. Investigation of the substrate scope revealed that incorporating an electron‐donating moiety at the 3′‐position of the biphenyl group resulted in a more favorable outcome for spirocycle formation.
Synthesis of biomass‐derived ethyl levulinate from steam‐exploded corn straw
Authors: Zhao Haoran , Jia Yu , Chen Yihang , Liang Xuanyu , Hao Jinbo , Chen Binglin , He Chao , Liu Liang , Chang Chun , Xu Guizhuan
Published: April 2024

Ethyl levulinate (EL) production from steam‐exploded corn straw (SCS) in a cascade of reaction using a Brønsted (B) acid and a Lewis (L) acid in ethanol was studied. The entangled structure of corn straw could be obviously damaged through steam explosion when the pressure was 1.5 MPa holding 10 min. The content of cellulose can be increased from 35.9% to 46.8%, and the contents of hemicellulose and lignin were changed from 16.7% to 8.8% and 22.6% to 27.5%, respectively. EL yield was significantly increased from 10.7 to 24.6 wt% under optimal reaction conditions (L/B = 1/20 [mol/mol], 205°C, 90 min, 1.8 g of SCS, 60 mL of ethanol). According to kinetic models, the activation energies for the main and side reactions were 56.8 and 110.5 kJ mol−1, respectively. It suggested that SCS was more easily to be converted to EL rather than other by‐products. The highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO)–lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy gaps (HOMO‐LUMO gaps) of cellobiose over the mixed acids in ethanol were significantly reduced with frontier molecular orbital (FMO) theory. This work provides an effective strategy for EL production from agricultural waste straws.
Cover Image, Volume 141, Issue 20
Authors: Araki Jun , Nakajima Minami
Published: April 2024

Wet spinning of chitin nanowhiskers: Effects of electrolyte composition in coagulation baths on mechanical properties and nanowhisker orientation by Jun Araki and Minami Nakajima. DOI: 10.1002/app.55335

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