bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behaviour of Cadmium(II) Ions on Cation-Exchange Resins
Authors: Kocaoba Sevgi
Published: April 2004

Cadmium is one of the most toxic heavy metals known and is considered inessential for living organisms. This element is found at low concentrations in natural environments, but human activities have led to increased levels in all continents. In the present study, the removal of cadmium(II) ions from aqueous solutions was investigated. Experimental investigations were undertaken using the ion-exchange resins Amberlite IR 120 (strongly acidic), Amberlite IRC 718 (weakly acidic and chelating), Lewatit TP 207 (weakly acidic and chelating) and Lewatit CNP 80 (weakly acidic).

For investigations of the exchange equilibria, different amounts of resin material were contacted with a fixed volume of a cadmium ion-containing solution. Because the uptake of cadmium ions was mainly dominated by the pH of the liquid phase, the pH value was varied between 0 and 3 with sample sizes of 0.5–5.0 g in each series studied. The initial and final cadmium ion concentrations were measured by ICP–AES methods.

Exchange equilibria were evaluated for strongly and weakly acidic resins via the surface complex formation theory that considers the sorption of ions as a local equilibrium reaction caused by the amphoteric behaviour of the surface. Application of this theory to exchange equilibria with ordinary and chelating weak acid exchange resins capable of releasing protons led to a comprehensive description of the systems. Binary equilibria were described by a logarithmic equilibrium parameter that was a linear function of the resin phase. For the evaluation of the equilibrium parameters, the generalized separation factors were calculated from the experimental data and plotted against the respective dimensionless resin loadings. Linear relationships were obtained in most cases although systematic deviations were found for small loadings.
A Comparison of the Adsorption of Phenolic Compounds from Water in Column Systems Containing XAD Resins and Modified Clay
Authors: Wang Yuen-Hua , Lin Su-Hsia
Published: April 2004

A fixed bed for the sorption of phenol, m-nitrophenol ( m-NP) and o-cresol employing cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-modified montmorillonite, XAD-4 or XAD-8 was examined both from a theoretical and experimental viewpoint. Experiments were performed using different feed flow rates, bed depths and feed sorbate concentrations. A theoretical model containing two parameters, τ and k, was proposed for describing the breakthrough curves. The two XADs and the CTAB–clay system were compared to clarify the characteristics of the adsorption mechanism and application. For the XAD systems, the breakthrough point of phenol increased with increasing bed height at the same feed flow rate. However, the bed height had little effect on the value of k. For the CTAB–clay system, the values of τ for phenol decreased with increasing feed concentration under the conditions studied. In contrast, however, the values of k increased with increasing feed concentration. The adsorption capacity (QM) of the phenolic compounds on the sorbents decreased in the order XAD-8 > XAD-4 > CTAB–clay. Although the surface area of XAD-4 was larger than that of XAD-8, the polarity of XAD-8 was greater than that of XAD-4. The adsorption rate constant k decreased in the order CTAB–clay > XAD-8 > XAD-4 for the same sorbate. For a given sorbent, the value of k decreased in the order phenol > m-NP > o-cresol.
Adsorption and Interfacial Properties of the Cationic Gemini Surfactant of Ethanediyl-α,β-Bis(Cetyldimethylammonium Bromide)
Authors: Liao Wen-Sheng , Bi Zhi-Chu
Published: April 2004

The cationic gemini surfactant ethanediyl-α,β-bis(cetyldimethylammonium bromide (16-2-16) was synthesized and characterized. Aggregation of the surfactant molecules was established by surface tension measurements and viscosity methods. Some thermodynamic parameters, such as the adsorption capacity of the surface, the molecular area associated with adsorption and the free energy of micellization, were calculated from plots of the surface tension versus the concentration. The dynamic surface and interfacial tensions were measured using the pendant drop method at the air/water surface and the dodecane/water interface. The experimental curve was close to the orientation and interaction models of the surface equations of state.

In comparison to conventional cationic surfactants, 16-2-16 has a very low critical micellar concentration (cmc), a higher level of surface adsorption and a lower adsorption molecular area. Due to its unique molecular structure and size, 16-2-16 adsorbs at surfaces and interfaces, but requires a considerable amount of time to attain adsorption equilibrium.
Adsorption of Hydrocarbon Chloro-Derivatives onto DTO Commercial Activated Carbon from Multi-Component Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Pelech Robert , Bembnowska Anna , Milchert Eugeniusz
Published: April 2004

The adsorption equilibrium of seven chlorohydrocarbons in single- and multi-component aqueous solutions was investigated. The experimental data and theoretical analysis for the adsorption equilibria of chloroform (CHCl3), carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), 1,2-dichloroethane (12DCE), 1,1,2,2-tetra-chloroethane (S-TET), vinylidene chloride (VDC), trichloroethylene (TRI) and tetrachloroethylene (PER) onto DTO activated carbon from single- and multi-component aqueous solutions were presented. Correlation of the experimental data was performed for a single-component solution using the Langmuir and Freundlich equations. The composition of the mixture included all the above-mentioned chloro-derivatives.

It was confirmed that the extent to which the component with a higher adsorption affinity in the multi-component solution was adsorbed was not influenced by components having a lower affinity in the mixture, irrespective of their concentration. The experimental data for both single- and multi-component adsorption allowed the development of a method for calculating the adsorption from a multi-component solution that was then used to correlate the data. The results of adsorption from multi-component equilibria were also correlated using the Langmuir and the Freundlich–Langmuir equations extended for multi-component solutions.
The Removal of Basic Blue 41 Dye from Aqueous Solutions by Bituminous Shale
Authors: Müftüoglu Ali E. , Karakelle Bektas , Ergin Mehmet , Erkol Ali Y. , Yilmaz Faruk
Published: April 2004

The removal of Basic Blue 41 dye from aqueous solutions was investigated using bituminous shale as an adsorbent. The parameters studied in batch experiments were the effect of contact time, temperature, particle size and adsorbate concentration. The adsorption was found to follow a first-order process. Equilibrium adsorption data were obtained at three different temperatures, i.e. 25°C, 40°C and 50°C, and with particle sizes corresponding to the following meshes: 45–120, 120–230, 230–325 and 325–400. The resulting experimental equilibrium data were well represented by the Langmuir isotherm. It was found that the smaller the particle size, the higher the adsorption. The adsorption capacity increased with temperature.
On the near Field Pressure of a Transonic Axisymmetric Jet
Authors: Ukeiley Lawrence S. , Ponton Michael K.
Published: April 2004

The near field fluctuating pressure of a cold subsonic jet (Mach 0.85) issuing from a contoured convergent nozzle was studied. Conventional time series analysis (i.e., correlation and spectral analysis) as well as a wavelet analysis were used to characterize time-dependent events thereby revealing features consistent with current understandings of jet noise while also uncovering modal features consistent with previous measurements of the jet flow field itself. Specifically, the measurements reveal extensive sources of multiple frequencies in the streamwise direction. The near field information of the present investigation should help to bridge our understanding of the relationship between the velocity field and the far field acoustic emission associated with subsonic jet noise as well as supply a data set that can be used for verification of computational efforts.
A Computational Aeroacoustic Prediction of Discrete-Frequency Rotor-Stator Interaction Noise - a Linear Theory Analysis
Authors: Sawyer S. , Nallasamy M. , Hixon R. , Dyson R. W.
Published: April 2004

The discrete-frequency noise generated by a rotor-stator interaction is computed by solving the fully nonlinear Euler equations in the time domain in two-dimensions. The acoustic response of the stator is determined simultaneously for the first three harmonics of the convected vertical gust of the rotor. The spatial mode generation, propagation and decay characteristics are predicted by assuming the acoustic field away from the stator can be represented as a uniform flow with small harmonic perturbations superimposed. The computed field is then decomposed using a joint temporal-spatial transform to determine the wave amplitudes as a function of rotor harmonic and spatial mode order. The frequency and spatial mode order of computed acoustic field was consistent with linear theory. Further, the propagation of the generated modes was also correctly predicted. The upstream going waves propagated from the domain without reflection from the inflow boundary. However, reflections from the outflow boundary were noticed. The amplitude of the reflected wave was approximately 5% of the incident wave.
Erratum: “Some Analytic Results for the Study of Broadband Noise Radiation from Wings, Propellers and Jets in Uniform Motion” [Int. J. Aeroacoustics, Vol. 2, No. 3 & 4, pp. 335 - 350 (2003)]
Authors: Farassat F. , Casper J.
Published: April 2004

The definitions of the functions [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in Equation (14) on page 343 were incorrect as printed. Equation (14) should read as follows:

[Formula: see text]
Understanding the Issue of ‘Informed Consent’ in Dental Treatment
Authors: Woodcock Jeremy A , Willings Mark V , Marren Patrick VA
Published: April 2004

The concept of consent to treatment is increasingly becoming contested in United Kingdom courts of law. Any practitioners who cannot demonstrate that a patient has properly consented to treatment are laying themselves open to litigation. This paper demonstrates that valid consent is not as straightforward as may be assumed and that a patient can easily challenge a standardised approach to obtaining consent. Current Department of Health guidelines on obtaining consent are discussed, and changes in the USA, Europe and Australia are brought into focus with regard to the situation in the UK.
Clinical Governance. What is it and how can it be Delivered in Dental Practices?
Authors: Maidment Yann G
Published: April 2004

This paper describes how a Scottish general dental practitioner carried out a literature search to inform his teaching on the topic of clinical governance in general dental practice. He found relatively few publications on the topic, most of which were descriptive rather than reports of scientific studies. Nevertheless, he has used the results of the literature search to inform his teaching. His opinion on what clinical governance is and how it can be introduced follows a brief description of the literature search.
Denaturing-HPLC-Based Assay for Detection of ABL Mutations in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Patients Resistant to Imatinib
Authors: Soverini Simona , Martinelli Giovanni , Amabile Marilina , Poerio Angela , Bianchini Michele , Rosti Gianantonio , Pane Fabrizio , Saglio Giuseppe , Baccarani Michele ,   the Italian Cooperative Study Group on Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (icsg-cml),   the European LeukemiaNet—6th Framework Program of the European Community
Published: April 2004

Background: Despite the efficacy of the BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitor Imatinib mesylate for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), resistance has been observed in a proportion of cases, especially those with advanced stages of the disease. Point mutations within the ABL kinase domain are emerging as the most frequent mechanism for reactivation of kinase activity within the leukemic clone.

Methods: We developed a denaturing-HPLC (D-HPLC)-based assay for screening for ABL point mutations. For each sample, two partially overlapping fragments of 393 and 482 bp corresponding to the kinase domain were amplified by nested reverse transcription-PCR and analyzed under selected temperature and acetonitrile gradient conditions. Fifty-one bone marrow and/or peripheral blood specimens from 27 CML patients who showed cytogenetic resistance to Imatinib were screened in parallel by D-HPLC and by direct sequencing.

Results: In 12 of 27 (44%) patients, D-HPLC showed an abnormal elution profile suggesting the presence of a nucleotide change. Direct sequencing confirmed the presence of a point mutation in all cases. Conversely, all samples scored as wild type by D-HPLC showed no evidence of mutations by direct sequencing. In two cases, novel amino acid substitutions at codons already known for being hot-spots of mutation were identified (F311I and E355D).

Conclusions: The proposed D-HPLC-based assay is highly specific and at least as sensitive as sequencing; with respect to the latter, it provides a much faster and less expensive semiautomated system for mutational screening. It may therefore potentially be a valuable tool for regular, large-scale testing of patients undergoing Imatinib treatment.
Electrical Conductances of Tetrabutylammonium Bromide, Sodium Tetraphenylborate and Sodium Bromide in 2-Ethoxyethanol in the Temperature Range 35–50°C
Authors: Haldar Purushottam , Das Bijan
Published: April 2004

The electrical conductances of the solutions of tetrabutylammonium bromide (Bu4NBr), sodium tetraphenylborate (NaPh4B) and sodium bromide (NaBr) in 2-ethoxyethanol have been reported at 35, 40, 45 and 50°C. The conductance data have been analyzed by the 1978 Fuoss conductance–concentration equation in terms of the limiting molar conductance (Λ0), the association constant (K
Λ) and the association diameter (R). The ionic contributions to the limiting molar conductances (Λ0) have been estimated using the “reference electrolyte” tetrabutylammonium tetraphenylborate (Bu4NPh4B). Appreciable ionic association was observed for all of these electrolytes which were found to exist in the form of solvent-separated ion-pairs in 2-ethoxyethanol. The tetrabutylammonium and tetraphenylborate ions are found to remain scarcely solvated whereas the sodium and bromide ions undergo substantial solvation in 2-ethoxyethanol medium in the temperature range investigated here.
¿Escuelas o empresas? Las centrales agrícolas y las regionales campesinas (1926–1934)
Authors: Loyo Engracia
Published: April 2004

The Escuelas Centrales Agrícolas (Central Agriculture Schools) and the Escuelas Regionales Campesinas (Regional Peasant Schools) (1926–1934) assumed the ideal of post-Revolutionary governments to train teachers and agriculturalists in order to transform the countryside. These schools were founded in ex haciendas with mostly pre-revolutionary infrastructures. This article focuses on a little-studied aspect: the relations between authorities and teachers, on the one hand, and the peasants who lived in the perimeters of the haciendas, on the other. It analyzes the problems that emerged because the schools didn’t follow their original goals and became dual institutions with conflicting goals: agricultural development and education. The article also demonstrates that, because of their ambiguous functions, the responsibilities and authority of the teachers went much further than their role as teachers. Because of official guidelines that emphasized productivity over teaching and because of the inefficiency, bad faith, and corruption of its main administrators, the Central and Regional Schools, in many cases, aggravated the unjust situation of the people.
Redefining Sodom: A Latter-Day Vision of Tijuana
Authors: Insley Jennifer
Published: April 2004

This paper examines the works of Roberto Castillo and Luis Humberto Crosthwaite as literary articulations of a new vision of Tijuana. It begins by discussing historical images of the city common in the United States and Mexico, and then explains the recent cultural renaissance of Tijuana. Finally, it looks in detail at the fiction and poetry of Castillo and Crosthwaite, analyzing their use of literature to simultaneously protest against stereotypes of the border and celebrate the diverse possibilities of this energetic space.
Pharmacodynamic Profile of Prolonged Etoposide Administration in Patients with Small Cell Lung Cancer and Non‐Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Authors: Higa Gerald M. , Sarkar Mohamadi A. , DeVore Russell F.
Published: April 2004

Study Objective. To determine whether therapeutic drug monitoring can enhance administration of etoposide in patients with drug‐responsive neoplasms.

Design. Prospective, open‐label study.

Setting. University‐affiliated hospital and cancer center.

Patients. Sixteen patients with small cell lung cancer or low‐grade non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Interventions. Patients were treated with etoposide, 25 mg/m2/day over 24 hours by continuous infusion for 35 days. Peripheral blood samples were collected twice a week to measure etoposide levels. Plasma was separated, frozen and stored at −20°C until assayed.

Measurements and Main Results. Steady‐state plasma etoposide concentrations (ECpss) were determined and used to calculate total systemic clearance (Clsys). Despite differences in dosage and administration schedules, etoposide Clsys was similar to previous reports. In addition, a biexponential relationship between ECpss and absolute neutrophil count was demonstrated by nonlinear least squares estimation. Values generated from this equation indicated that ECpss above 1.5 μg/ml was strongly associated with grade III–IV leukocyte toxicity. Although less precise, there may also be a correlation between ECpss and antitumor activity.

Conclusion. Based on these findings, we propose a pharmacodynamic construct that uses measurements of both pharmacokinetic (ECpss, Clsys) and pharmacodynamic (hematologic toxicity, tumor response) parameters for patients with etoposide‐sensitive tumors. Therapeutic drug monitoring may be able to mitigate hematologic toxicity.
A Review of Protease Inhibitor‐Induced Hyperglycemia
Authors: Kaufman Michele B. , Simionatto Creuza
Published: April 2004

Hyperglycemia is an adverse effect that occurs with all protease inhibitors, although few cases have been reported in the literature. Most patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection receiving antiretroviral therapy are also taking at least one protease inhibitor. Patients with a family history of diabetes mellitus may be at a greater risk of developing this adverse effect. It is therefore prudent to monitor all patients starting protease inhibitor therapy for the onset of diabetes or hyperglycemia, particularly those with a family history of diabetes. Baseline fasting plasma glucose or serum glucose level should be measured with follow‐up measurements every 3 months for approximately 6–12 months.
Tolcapone, a Selective Catechol‐O‐Methyltransferase Inhibitor for Treatment of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Guay David R. P.
Published: April 2004

Tolcapone is a selective peripheral and central catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor recently approved as adjunctive therapy in patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease who are already being treated with a levodopa‐peripheral dopa decarboxylase inhibitor (DDI) combination. Tolcapone potentiates and prolongs the effect of levodopa in the central nervous system (CNS) by enhancing levodopa's delivery to the CNS and slowing dopamine's central metabolism. A short terminal disposition half‐life of 2 hours mandates dosing 3 times/day. Dosage adjustment is generally unnecessary in the presence of mild to moderate renal and hepatic impairment. Coadministration of tolcapone with levodopa‐DDI results in significant amelioration of the wearing‐off and on‐off phenomena and frequently allows significant levodopa dosage reduction. In patients with stable disease, tolcapone improves ‘on’ time. As might be expected from its potentiation of levodopa effects, dopaminergic side effects are prominent with this agent. Although the main objective of drug treatment in Parkinson's disease remains clinical improvement with an optimum dose and frequency of levodopa administration, tolcapone may prove a useful adjunct to such therapy, especially in the presence of the wearing‐off and on‐off phenomena. The relative merits of this agent vis‐a‐vis dopamine receptor agonists are somewhat unclear at present. However, recent guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology suggest that a COMT inhibitor be added to levodopa‐dopamine agonist therapy in patients with advanced disease.
Comparison of 24‐Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Data in Hypertensive Patients Switched from Nifedipine‐GITS to Nifedipine‐CC
Authors: Wurdeman Richard L. , Mooss Aryan N. , Mohiuddin Syed M. , Lucas B. Daniel , Ryschon Kay L. , Hilleman Daniel E.
Published: April 2004

Study Objective. To evaluate 24‐hour blood pressure control and frequency of adverse effects in patients with mild to moderate hypertension switched from nifedipine gastrointestinal therapeutic system (Nif‐GITS) to nifedipine coat core (Nif‐CC).

Design. Open‐label, prospective, switch study.

Setting. University‐affiliated outpatient cardiology clinic.

Subjects. Twenty patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension, who were taking Nif‐GITS 30, 60, or 90 mg/day for 8 weeks or longer.

Interventions. Patients stabilized with Nif‐GITS 30, 60, or 90 mg were monitored over 24 hours with an ambulatory blood pressure monitor and were then switched to an equivalent dosage of Nif‐CC. After 8 weeks ± 1 week taking Nif‐CC, they were again monitored with a 24‐hour blood pressure monitor. The 24‐hour blood pressure load (percentage of values > 135/85 mm Hg for 24 hrs), daytime blood pressure load (percentage of values > 140/90 mm Hg from 7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.), nighttime blood pressure load (percentage of values > 120/80 mm Hg from 10:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m.), diurnal blood pressure variation, average 24‐hour blood pressure, daytime blood pressure, nighttime blood pressure, mean blood pressure for the first 4 hours, and last 8 hours of the dosing interval were measured. Adverse effects such as headache, dizziness, and edema were also reported.

Measurements and Main Results. No differences in average 24 hour‐blood pressure readings were observed but significant differences in blood pressure control during the first 4 and last 8 hours of the dosing interval were seen. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were higher after approximately 16 hours in patients switched from Nif‐GITS to Nif‐CC. Although Nif‐CC caused a greater initial response, it was less effective than Nif‐GITS after 16 hours. This could explain the lack of differences in average 24‐hour blood pressure values between formulations. Of the 20 patients, 20% experienced increased headaches, 20% showed signs of increased peripheral edema, and 10% reported occasional dizziness after switching agents. Three patients discontinued Nif‐CC, two as ordered by their primary care physician and one on his own due to headache.

Conclusion. This study suggests that patients switched from Nif‐GITS to Nif‐CC could experience increased blood pressure during the night or toward the end of the dosing interval. They could also experience adverse effects such as headache, edema, and dizziness, which could result in more physician visits and put patients with other disease states such as coronary heart disease at increased risk.
Aging‐Related Rotator Cuff Tears: Molecular Mechanisms and Implications for Clinical Management
Authors: Wang Ni , Wang Haoyuan , Shen Longxiang , Liu Xudong , Ma Yanhong , Wang Chongyang
Published: January 2024

Shoulder pain and disabilities are prevalent issues among the elderly population, with rotator cuff tear (RCT) being one of the leading causes. Although surgical treatment has shown some success, high postoperative retear rates remain a great challenge, particularly in elderly patients. Aging‐related degeneration of muscle, tendon, tendon‐to‐bone enthesis, and bone plays a critical role in the development and prognosis of RCT. Studies have demonstrated that aging worsens muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration, alters tendon structure and biomechanical properties, exacerbates enthesis degeneration, and reduces bone density. Although recent researches have contributed to understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of aging‐related RCT, a comprehensive systematic review of this topic is still lacking. Therefore, this article aims to present a review of the pathophysiological changes and their clinical significance, as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying aging‐related RCT, with the goal of shedding light on new therapeutic approaches to reduce the occurrence of aging‐related RCT and improve postoperative prognosis in elderly patients.
Effects of Trace Zn on the Deformation Mechanisms of Mg–Gd–Y–Zr Alloy Investigated by In Situ Synchrotron Diffraction
Authors: Liu Weiqing , Dai Chao , Liu Jinwei , Lin Chaohui , Chi Yuanqing , Sun Wanting , Zheng Mingyi
Published: January 2024

Addition of trace Zn can impose notable effect on the deformation behavior of Mg–Gd–Y–Zr alloy, while the underlying mechanisms have not been revealed. In the present work, Mg–8.5Gd–2.5Y–0.3Zr (wt%) (0Zn) and Mg–8.5Gd–2.5Y–0.5Zn–0.3Zr (wt%) (0.5Zn) alloys are fabricated by casting and extrusion, to obtain a bimodal microstructure containing fine dynamic recrystallized (DRXed) grains and coarse unDRXed grains. The as‐extruded 0Zn and 0.5Zn alloys are studied by in situ synchrotron diffraction under uniaxial tension and compression to clarify the effect of trace Zn on the deformation mechanisms. It is found that both alloys exhibit stress softening in the basal slip‐favored grains under both tension and compression, and adding trace Zn highly enhances the stress softening. Furthermore, the addition of Zn stimulates the occurrence of discontinuous yielding which is in connection with the stress softening, resulting from the interaction between basal dislocations and solute atmospheres. The tension–compression‐yielding symmetry of the alloy is improved by adding Zn, which is mainly attributed to the suppression effect of γ′ phases and Gd/Y–Zn dimers on tensile twinning. Finally, the addition of Zn can promote the tensile and compressive strength, owing to the strength enhancement of the relevant deformation modes and the increase of the fraction of unDRXed regions.
Silicon‐Compatible Ferroelectric Tunnel Junctions with a SiO2/Hf0.5Zr0.5O2Composite Barrier as Low‐Voltage and Ultra‐High‐Speed Memristors
Authors: Wang He , Guan Zeyu , Li Jiachen , Luo Zhen , Du Xinzhe , Wang Zijian , Zhao Haoyu , Shen Shengchun , Yin Yuewei , Li Xiaoguang
Published: January 2024

The big data era requires ultrafast, low‐power, and silicon‐compatible materials and devices for information storage and processing. Here, ferroelectric tunnel junctions (FTJs) based on SiO2/Hf0.5Zr0.5O2composite barrier and both conducting electrodes are designed and fabricated on Si substrates. The FTJ achieves the fastest write speed of 500 ps under 5 V (2 orders of magnitude faster than reported silicon‐compatible FTJs) or 10 ns speed at a low voltage of 1.5 V (the lowest voltage among FTJs at similar speeds), low write current density of 1.3 × 104A cm−2, 8 discrete states, good retention > 105s at 85 °C, and endurance > 107. In addition, it provides a large read current (88 A cm−2) at 0.1 V, 2 orders of magnitude larger than reported FTJs. Interestingly, in FTJ‐based synapses, gradually tunable conductance states (128 states) with high linearity (<1) are obtained by 10 ns pulses of <1.2 V, and a high accuracy of 91.8% in recognizing fashion product images is achieved by online neural network simulations. These results highlight that silicon‐compatible HfO2‐based FTJs are promising for high‐performance nonvolatile memories and electrical synapses.
Role of income and policy in reducing water pollution: Evidence from the Mississippi River Basin Healthy Watersheds Initiative
Authors: Davis James C. , Paudel Krishna P. , Rupasingha Anil
Published: January 2024

We study the effectiveness of the Mississippi River Basin Healthy Watersheds Initiative (MRBI) in reducing nitrogen pollution in surface water bodies. We use a Kitagawa‐Oaxaca‐Blinder (KOB) counterfactual decomposition method to quantify the role of income and policy in reducing nitrogen pollution in waterbodies. Our results show that the MRBI policy for the 2012 cohort of implemented watersheds across five states (Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, and Tennessee) experienced a 43% reduction in nitrogen concentrations when comparing the 2009–2011 pre‐treatment period to the 2012–2018 post‐treatment period. Decomposition results show that 79% of the improvement in water quality from policy treatment is derived from an endowment effect, driven mainly by location‐fixed effects that include cross‐sectional mean differences in income, among other characteristics. Results also show that 21% of differences are derived from the coefficient effect or differences in the response of policy‐treated watersheds compared to a set of control watersheds.
Generating Ultrasonic Foliage Echoes with Variational Autoencoders
Authors: Goldsworthy Michael , Müller Rolf
Published: January 2024

Navigation through dense foliage presents a fundamental challenge to autonomous systems, and achieving a performance level similar to echolocating bats could have important applications in areas such as forestry and farming. However, the clutter echoes originating from such environments have been difficult to analyze. To study the problem of sonar‐based navigation in dense foliage in simulation, an artificial generation system for leaf impulse responses (IRs) based on variational auto‐encoders is proposed. The system is to aid the construction of artificial foliage echo environments. A dataset of leaf echoes was collected in an anechoic chamber and convolved with the original signal to estimate the IR of each leaf. A modified version of the conditional variational autoencoder ‐ generative adversarial network (cVAE‐GAN) architecture was trained successfully on this dataset to produce a generative model that was conditional on leaf viewing angles, size, and species. The IRs generated by the model capture quantitative and qualitative similarity to the measured IRs. It surpasses the previous state of the art foliage echo model based on reflecting disks. The model's computational efficiency and its success suggest its potential use for simulating large environments of foliage to study bat biosonar and aid in engineering biomimetic sonar devices.
Iron‐triggered signaling via ETS1 and the p38/JNK MAPK pathway regulates Bmp6 expression
Authors: Zurawska Gabriela , Jończy Aneta , Niklewicz Marta , Sas Zuzanna , Rumieńczyk Izabela , Kulecka Maria , Piwocka Katarzyna , Rygiel Tomasz P. , Mikula Michal , Mleczko‐Sanecka Katarzyna
Published: January 2024

BMP6 is an iron‐sensing cytokine whose transcription in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) is enhanced by high iron levels, a step that precedes the induction of the iron‐regulatory hormone hepcidin. While several reports suggested a cell‐autonomous induction of Bmp6 by iron‐triggered signals, likely via sensing of oxidative stress by the transcription factor NRF2, other studies proposed the dominant role of a paracrine yet unidentified signal released by iron‐loaded hepatocytes. To further explore the mechanisms of Bmp6 transcriptional regulation, we used female mice aged 10–11 months, which are characterized by hepatocytic but not LSEC iron accumulation, and no evidence of systemic iron overload. We found that LSECs of aged mice exhibit increased Bmp6 mRNA levels as compared to young controls, but do not show a transcriptional signature characteristic of activated NFR2‐mediated signaling in FACS‐sorted LSECs. We further observed that primary murine LSECs derived from both wild‐type and NRF2 knock‐out mice induce Bmp6 expression in response to iron exposure. By analyzing transcriptomic data of FACS‐sorted LSECs from aged versus young mice, as well as early after iron citrate injections, we identified ETS1 as a candidate transcription factor involved in Bmp6 transcriptional regulation. By performing siRNA‐mediated knockdown, small‐molecule treatments, and chromatin immunoprecipitation in primary LSECs, we show that Bmp6 transcription is regulated by iron via ETS1 and p38/JNK MAP kinase‐mediated signaling, at least in part independently of NRF2. Thereby, these findings identify the new components of LSEC iron sensing machinery broadly associated with cellular stress responses.
Investigating surface integrity and mechanical behavior of selective laser melting for dental implants
Authors: Rezayat Mohammad , Ashkani Omid , Fadaei Raheleh
Published: January 2024

Selective laser melting (SLM) is a contemporary manufacturing method that offers numerous advantages for producing various components. This research focuses on the examination of a dental implant sample fabricated using the SLM method. The investigation encompasses multiple aspects, including hardness, dimensional accuracy, strength, and surface properties. The results demonstrate that the hardness of the SLM sample is comparable to that of machined samples, establishing it as a viable alternative to traditional production methods. Dimensional tests reveal that the SLM sample adheres to the required acceptance limits for critical dimensions. The strength of the sample, with a value of 700 MPa, proves to be acceptable for medical applications. The presence of surface porosity and holes in the SLM sample highlights its potential for enhanced bone ossification. However, challenges associated with thread construction in the SLM process require further attention. Overall, this research showcases the promising aspects of the SLM method for dental implant production, while also identifying areas for future investigation and improvement.
Modulating Ce3+ Sites in Ce‐Zr Oxide Nanocatalysts through Protamine Biomineralization for Organophosphate Dephosphorylation
Authors: Jiang Junjie , Peña Jhair , Hadinata Lie William , Yang Yuwei , Thong Grace , Wright Joshua , Thomsen Lars , Gallington Leighanne C. , Scott Jason A. , Bedford Nicholas M.
Published: January 2024

Catalytic is a crucial reaction for environmental detoxication of pesticides and neutralization of various molecules classified as chemical warfare agents. Herein, we report on a series of tunable Ce−Zr‐based metal oxides, (ZraCe1–aOx) prepared using a facile biomineralization technique, as catalysts for organophosphates dephosphorylation. Synchrotron scattering and spectroscopy methods showcase that ZraCe1–aOx catalysts are highly defective and exhibit an abundance of Ce3+ sites that promote oxygen vacancies needed for enhanced dephosphorylation reactions. The catalytic performance was assessed using a model para‐nitrophenyl phosphate reaction and showcases a strong dependence on Zr dopant concentration and subsequent tuning of the Ce3+/Ce4+ ratio. Analysis of synchrotron datasets allowed structure‐performance correlations between the Ce3+ concentration and associated oxygen vacancies, the dephosphorylation rate constant, and Zr concentration to be established, confirming that Ce3+ as active sites is positively correlated with the rate constant. We envision that similar biomineralization approaches can be used to fabricate Ce3+‐rich Ce−Zr oxide for environmental application in dephosphorylation and other hydrolysis reactions.
Outage and ergodic capacity analysis of a full‐duplex energy‐harvesting cooperative non‐orthogonal multiple access network
Authors: Baranwal Alok , Dhar Roy Sanjay , Kundu Sumit
Published: January 2024

This paper considers a dual‐hop cooperative relay‐based communication with uplink (UL) and downlink (DL) non‐orthogonal multiple access (NOMA), where communication between sources to destinations takes place parallelly in the same frequency band over a Rayleigh fading channels. The energy harvesting (EH)‐based full‐duplex (FD) relay helps in forwarding the message from the source node to the destination node via superposition coding, thus calling it a multiple sources full‐duplex energy‐harvesting cooperative relay NOMA (MS‐FD‐EH‐CR‐NOMA) system. Early works focus on EH from one source node or a dedicated power station. In this article, the communication between sources and destinations occurs in two slots where first slot deals with energy harvesting while in second slot information transmission occurs. We studied the effect of imperfect successive interference cancellation (ipSIC) and residual self‐interference (RSI) in decoding the message at the relay and the destinations. We derived the closed‐form expressions for the outage probability of each pair and the system outage probability of the MS‐FD‐EH‐CR‐NOMA system. Next, we derive the closed‐form expressions of ergodic capacity under Rayleigh distributed fading channels. Further, numerical results are validated by its simulation results using Monte Carlo simulations in MATLAB. The results obtained through this work are a good step towards designing multiple source–destination communication using NOMA and EH relay.
Application of broken windows theory to identify flow disruptions in neurosurgery procedure
Authors: Khan Asfandyar , Farooq Aimen , Elfallal Wissam , Gandhi Ravi , Vinas Federico , Boquet Albert J.
Published: January 2024

Addressing flow disruptions (FDs) in neurosurgery requires a multifaceted approach. Strategies like improved communication protocols, minimizing interruptions, improving coordination among team, optimizing operating room layout, and promoting user‐centered design can help mitigate the challenges and enhance the overall flow and safety of neurosurgical procedures. Thirty neurosurgery cases were observed at two tertiary care facilities. The data collected were from wheels into the operating room to wheels out from the operating room. Data points were categorized using a human factors taxonomy known as RIPCHORD‐TWA (Realizing Improved Patient Care Through Human‐Centered Operating Room Design for Threat Window Analysis). Of the 541 total disruptions observed, coordination issues were the most prevalent (26.25%), followed by layout issues (26.06%), issues related to interruption (22.55%), communication (22.37%), equipment issues (2.40%) and usability issues (0.37%) comprised the remainder of the observations. This translated into one disruption every 2.7 min. Instead of focusing exclusively on errors and adverse events, we propose conceptualizing the accumulation of disruptions as “threat windows” to analyze potential threats to the integrity of the care system. This perspective allows for the improved identification of system weaknesses or threats, affording us the ability to address these inefficiencies and intervene before errors and adverse events may occur.
Gluten‐free diet for pediatric patients with coeliac disease: A position paper from the ESPGHAN gastroenterology committee, special interest group in coeliac disease
Authors: Luque Veronica , Crespo‐Escobar Paula , Hård af Segerstad Elin M. , Koltai Tunde , Norsa Lorenzo , Roman Enriqueta , Vreugdenhil Anita , Fueyo‐Díaz Ricardo , Ribes‐Koninckx Carmen
Published: January 2024

Background and Objective

Coeliac disease is a chronic, immune‐mediated disorder for which the only treatment consists of lifelong strict adherence to gluten‐free diet (GFD). However, there is a lack of evidence‐based guidelines on the GFD dietary management of coeliac disease. This position paper, led by the Special Interest Group in coeliac disease of the European Society of Pediatric, Gastroenterology Hepatology, and Nutrition, supported by the Nutrition Committee and the Allied Health Professionals Committee, aims to present evidence‐based recommendations on the GFD as well as how to support dietary adherence.

Methods

A wide literature search was performed using the MeSH Terms: “diet, gluten free,” “gluten‐free diet,” “diets, gluten‐free,” “gluten free diet,” and “coeliac disease” in Pubmed until November 8th, 2022.

Results

The manuscript provides an overview of the definition of the GFD, regulations as basis to define the term “gluten‐free,” which foods are naturally gluten‐free and gluten‐containing. Moreover, it provides recommendations and educational tips and infographics on suitable food substitutes, the importance of reading food labels, risk of gluten cross‐contact at home and in public settings, nutritional considerations as well as factors associated to dietary adherence based on available evidence, or otherwise clinical expertise.

Conclusions

This position paper provides guidance and recommendations to support children with coeliac disease to safely adhere to a GFD.
Idiopathic fibrosing pancreatitis: A rare cause of obstructive jaundice
Authors: Huynh Mindy , Silva Rodolfo , Thiruvengadam Nikhil , Parashette Kalyan
Published: January 2024

Jaundice is an important physiologic manifestation of both benign and insidious diseases. We report on the case of an 11‐year‐old male who presented with diffuse pruritis, jaundice, and later abdominal pain. Initial work‐up revealed an obstructive cholestatic pattern, warranting investigation for structural anomalies. Extensive imaging revealed a lesion on the pancreatic head, and biopsy of the lesion confirmed the diagnosis of idiopathic fibrosing pancreatitis (IFP). Temporary stenting of the common bile duct successfully treated our patient's symptomatic IFP.
How to promote the construction of low‐carbon cities in China? An urban complex ecosystem perspective
Authors: Zhu Xiongwei , Li Dezhi
Published: January 2024

The escalation of carbon emissions has propelled global warming into a global issue requiring urgent attention. As primary contributors to global carbon emissions, cities constitute the central battleground for efforts aimed at carbon emission reduction. Notably, China, the world's largest carbon emitter, has channeled substantial human and financial resources towards the development of low‐carbon cities. However, the multifaceted challenges confronting Chinese low‐carbon city construction (LCC), including the lack of clearly defined construction strategies and deficiencies in government policy implementation, underscore the need for a systematic exploration of the influencing factors and mechanisms to overcome these obstacles. In response to this pressing need, this study utilizes a conceptual framework that is deeply rooted in the complex urban social‐economic‐natural‐management ecosystem. Within this framework, the study meticulously identified 12 influencing factors and, employing the pressure‐state‐response (PSR) model, categorized them to elucidate the dynamic and multidimensional nature of low‐carbon city construction. Subsequently, the DEMATEL method was employed to explore the causality and centrality of these 12 factors, and the ISM method was used to analyze the hierarchical structure and influencing factors and mechanisms of LCC. Three paths from LCC pressure to LCC response were established. Finally, three major implications were proposed to help Chinese LCC: (i) improve urban strategic planning applicability in a one‐city‐one‐policy manner, (ii) strengthen the green economy's long‐term development mechanism, and (iii) use the enthusiasm of market forces and public participation.
Seismic behavior of prefabricated frame with special‐shaped concrete‐filled steel tubular columns and H‐shaped steel beams
Authors: Zhang Yujie , Wang Lai , Dong Xitong , Xu Zhifeng , Guan Shangshang , Liu Liyuan , Chen Haitao
Published: January 2024

To realize the prefabricated structure of special‐shaped concrete‐filled steel tubular (CFST) column frame and enhance the level of indoor room utilization, this paper proposed a novel prefabricated frame with special‐shaped CFST columns and H‐shape steel beams connection with side plate. To investigate seismic behavior of this prefabricated frame structure, a 2‐story and 2‐bay CFST frame specimen was fabricated and tested under reversed cyclic loading. The failure mode, hysteresis behavior, degradation of lateral stiffness and bearing capacity, ductility and energy dissipation were analyzed. Experiment results indicated that failure mode presented strong columns and weak beams. Hysteresis curve of frame showed fully shuttle‐shaped. The mean story drift angle was 1/36 at ultimate stage. Equivalent viscous damping coefficient was 0.038–0.464. The bearing capacity degradation was relatively gentle, but the overall stiffness degradation was more obvious. It suggested that the frame had proper seismic and energy dissipation property. After the test, the seismic property of test frame was further investigated through the numerical simulation approach. The failure mode and skeleton curve obtained from the simulation were nearly consistent with test results, indicating that numerical analysis results were precise and with high reference meaning.
Use of chemotherapy in Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) with epitheliotropic T‐cell lymphoma: Two cases (2021–2022)
Authors: Chan Shih Chieh , McDermott Colin T. , Wyre Nicole
Published: January 2024

Epitheliotropic cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (ETCL) is rarely described in golden or Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus), and no effective treatments or outcomes have previously been published. This study includes two cases of epitheliotropic cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma that were diagnosed via skin biopsy. Clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and outcome were reported. Both cases received chemotherapy, including prednisolone, lomustine, L‐asparaginase and chlorambucil. One Syrian hamster that received prednisolone (0.5 mg/kg per os every 24 hours) and chlorambucil (0.4 mg/kg per os every 24 hours) survived 276 days after diagnosis. Another Syrian hamster treated with prednisolone (1 mg/kg per os every 24 hours) survived 81 days after diagnosis. The effectiveness of lomustine and L‐asparaginase remains unknown for Syrian hamsters, and more studies are needed to determine appropriate dose ranges for chlorambucil. The combination of chlorambucil (0.4 mg/kg per os every 24 hours) and prednisolone (0.5–1 mg/kg per os every 24 hours) may assist in managing epitheliotropic cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma in Syrian hamsters.
Ocular canine transmissible venereal tumour: Report of three cases
Authors: Nuwanshika‐Naduni R. M. N. S. , Bandaranayake‐Nishadhi B. M. L. N. , De Silva‐Niranjala D. D. N. , Ariyarathna‐Harsha H. M. H. S. , Wijayawardhane‐Nayana K. A. N.
Published: January 2024

This study investigated three cases of transmissible venereal tumour in dogs. In Case 1, a 5‐year‐old male dog presented with an eye mass and penile growths, unresponsive to previous treatment. Case 2 involved a 4.5‐year‐old male dog with bilateral ocular masses and penile lesions. Case 3 featured a stray dog with ocular and skin masses. All cases were confirmed as transmissible venereal tumour through impression smear cytology. Treatment with vincristine sulphate resulted in significant remission, with complete recovery after the fourth injection. This study contributes valuable knowledge for veterinarians in diagnosing and treating transmissible venereal tumour in dogs, emphasising the significance of an approach to case management and careful consideration of the varying clinical manifestations of the disease.