bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Near vertical iso- illite- crystallinity surfaces cross-cut the recumbent fold structure of the Morcles nappe, Swiss Alps
Authors: Burkhard M. , Goy-Eggenberger D.
Published: July 2002

Metamorphic isograd surfaces are mapped within the Morcles nappe using illite crystallinity (IC) and (clay-) mineral parageneses in 268 samples. The diagenesis-anchizone and the anchizone-epizone boundaries are nearly vertical surfaces which crosscut the present-day recumbent fold nappe structure. Frontal parts of the nappe are diagenetic (Tmax<200°C) whereas rear parts both in the normal and inverted limb are epizonal (Tmax>300°C). We demonstrate that the calcite content of shales, marls or limestones has no influence on the average IC. Deviations of individual samples from the mean IC of any given diagenetic and lower anchizonal site are very large, however, without it being possible to associate deviations with any obvious rock parameter. The standard deviations of populations of IC values decrease strongly with increasing metamorphic grade (toward smaller IC values). Mapping the diagenesis-anchizone boundary requires a much larger sampling effort than the same exercise for the anchizone-epizone boundary.
Ludwigite from central Sweden: new data and crystal structure
refinement
Authors: Appel P. W. U. , Brigatti M. F.
Published: July 2002

Ludwigite from B-bearing iron ores in the Bergslagen area of central Sweden
and in the coastal area north of Stockholm has been studied using chemical and
single-crystal diffraction techniques. Structure refinements, completed for three
crystals showing slightly different Al contents, in the space group
Pbam (agreement factor: 2.42 ≤
R ≤ 2.79) indicate that: (1) octahedral M1, M2 and
M3 bond distances are similar, although the calculated site population suggests
that M1 and M2 are nearly completely occupied by Mg whereas M3 also contains
Fe2+ and Fe3+; (2) in the M4
octahedron Fe3+ and Al dominate over Mg (and
Fe2+); and (3) the distortion parameter, BLD, indicates
that M3 is the most regular, whereas M4 is the most distorted octahedron.
C-terminal peptide of thrombospondin-1 induces platelet aggregation through the Fc receptor γ-chain–associated signaling pathway and by agglutination
Authors: Tulasne David , Judd Barbi A. , Johansen Mette , Asazuma Naoki , Best Denise , Brown Eric J. , Kahn Mark , Koretzky Gary A. , Watson Steve P.
Published: July 2002

A peptide from the C-terminal domain of thrombospondin-1 (Arg-Phe-Tyr-Val-Val-Met-Trp-Lys; known as 4N1-1) has been reported to induce platelet aggregation and to bind to the integrin-associated protein (IAP), which is also known as CD47. In this study, it was discovered that 4N1-1 or its derivative peptide, 4N1K, induces rapid phosphorylation of the Fc receptor (FcR) γ chain, Syk, SLP-76, and phospholipase C γ2 in human platelets. A specific inhibitor of Src family kinases, 4-amino-4-(4-methylphenyl)-7-(t-butyl) pyrazola[3,4-d]pyrimidine, prevented phosphorylation of these proteins, abolished platelet secretion, and reduced aggregation by approximately 50%. A similar inhibition of aggregation to 4N1-1 was obtained in the presence of Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser in mouse platelets deficient in FcR γ chain or SLP-76 and in patients with type I Glanzmann thrombasthenia. These results show that 4N1-1 signals through a pathway similar to that used by the collagen receptor glycoprotein (GP) VI. The αIIbβ3-independent aggregation induced by 4N1-1 was also observed in fixed platelets and platelets from patients with Bernard-Soulier syndrome, which are deficient in GPIbα. Surprisingly, the ability of 4N1-1 to stimulate aggregation and tyrosine phosphorylation was not altered in platelets pretreated with anti-IAP antibodies and in IAP-deficient mice. These results show that the C-terminal peptide of thrombospondin induces platelet aggregation through the FcR γ-chain signaling pathway and through agglutination. The latter pathway is independent of signaling events and does not use GPIbα or αIIbβ3. Neither of these pathways is mediated by IAP.
Simultaneous fetal cell identification and diagnosis by epsilon-globin chain immunophenotyping and chromosomal fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Choolani Mahesh , O'Donnell Hilary , Campagnoli Cesare , Kumar Sailesh , Roberts Irene , Bennett Phillip R. , Fisk Nicholas M.
Published: July 2002

Isolating fetal erythroblasts from maternal blood offers a promising noninvasive alternative for prenatal diagnosis. The current immunoenzymatic methods of identifying fetal cells from background maternal cells postenrichment by labeling γ-globin are problematic. They are nonspecific because maternal cells may produce γ-globin, give poor hybridization efficiencies with chromosomal fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and do not permit simultaneous visualization of the fetal cell identifier and the FISH signal. We describe a novel technique that allows simultaneous visualization of fetal erythroblast morphology, chromosomal FISH, and ε-globin labeled with AMCA (7-amino-4-methylcoumarin-3-acetic acid). AMCA was chosen as the fluorescent label to circumvent the problem of heme autofluorescence because the mean difference in relative fluorescence intensity between fetal erythroblasts stained positive for antiglobin antibody and autofluorescence of unstained cells was greater with AMCA (mean 43.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 34.6-51.9; SD = 14.0) as the reporting label compared with fluorescein isothiocyanate (mean 24.2; 95% CI, 16.4-31.9; SD = 12.4) or phycoerythrin (mean 9.8; 95% CI, 4.8-14.8; SD = 8.0). Median FISH hybridization efficiency was 97%, comparable to the 98% (n = 5 paired samples) using Carnoy fixative. One ε-positive fetal erythroblast was identified among 105 maternal nucleated cells in 6 paired mixture experiments of fetal erythroblasts in maternal blood (P < .001). Male ε-positive fetal erythroblasts were clearly distinguishable from adult female ε-negative erythroblasts, with no false positives (n = 1000). The frequency of fetal erythroblasts expressing ε-globin declines linearly from 7 to 14 weeks' gestation (y = −15.8 × + 230.8;R2 = 0.8; P < .001). We describe a rapid and accurate method to detect simultaneously fetal erythroblast morphology, intracytoplasmic ε-globin, and nuclear FISH.
Ethics Seminars: Physician Complicity in the Holocaust: Historical Review and Reflections on Emergency Medicine in the 21st Century, Part I*
Authors: Geiderman Joel Martin
Published: July 2002

Individual physicians as well as the medical establishment were complicit in a wide range of activities carried out by the Nazis during the period that encompassed the Holocaust. This article examines these activities and lists eight moral failures attributable to physicians of this era. The accompanying article reviews the ethical pitfalls encountered by German physicians during the Nazi era and examines them in relationship to current issues. It also explores the role of professionalism then and now. In particular, ethical issues presently confronting emergency physicians are examined through this prism.
Low-Risk Persistent Gestational Trophoblastic Disease: Outcome After Initial Treatment With Low-Dose Methotrexate and Folinic Acid From 1992 to 2000
Authors: McNeish I. A. , Strickland S. , Holden L. , Rustin G. J.S. , Foskett M. , Seckl M. J. , Newlands E. S.
Published: July 2002

PURPOSE: We have simplified the treatment of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) in order to reduce the number of patients exposed to potentially carcinogenic chemotherapy. Patients who score 0 to 8 on the Charing Cross scoring system are classified as low-risk and receive methotrexate (MTX) and folinic acid (FA), whereas those who score higher than 8 are classified as high-risk and receive the etoposide, methotrexate, and dactinomycin (EMA)/cyclophosphamide and vincristine (CO) regimen.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between 1992 and 2000, 485 women with GTD were commenced on MTX/FA at Charing Cross Hospital, London, United Kingdom. If patients developed MTX resistance or toxicity, treatment was altered according to the level of beta human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). If serum hCG was ≤ 100 IU/L, patients received dactinomycin; if hCG was greater than 100 IU/L, patients received EMA/CO.

RESULTS: The median duration of follow-up was 4.7 years. Overall survival was 100% and the relapse rate was 3.3% (16 of 485 patients). hCG values normalized in 324 (66.8%) of 485 patients with MTX alone, whereas 161 (33.2%) of 485 patients required a change in treatment, 11 because of MTX toxicity and 150 because of MTX resistance. Sixty-seven patients changed to dactinomycin, of whom 58 achieved normal hCG values, and nine required third-line chemotherapy with EMA/CO. hCG values normalized in 93 (98.9%) of 94 patients who changed directly to EMA/CO from MTX.

CONCLUSION: Single-agent dactinomycin has activity in patients with low-risk GTD who develop MTX resistance and whose hCG is low. Simplifying the stratification of GTD into two classes (low- and high-risk) does not compromise overall outcome and may reduce the risk of second tumors.
Subsyndromes and symptom clusters: Multilevel factor analysis of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia with intensive longitudinal data
Authors: Pickering Carolyn E. Z. , Winstead Vicki , Yildiz Mustafa , Wang Danny , Yefimova Maria , Pickering Andrew M.
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION

Behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia (BPSD) are dynamic phenomena with a high amount of intraindividual variability. We applied a multilevel framework to identify subsyndromes (between‐person factors) that represent clinically relevant profiles of BPSD and identify symptom clusters (within‐person factors) that represent contextually driven daily symptom experiences.

METHODS

This study used an intensive longitudinal design in which 68 co‐residing family caregivers to persons living with dementia were recruited to proxy report on their care recipient's daily symptom experiences of 23 different BPSD for eight consecutive days (n = 443 diaries). A multilevel exploratory/confirmatory factor analysis was used to account for nested data and separate within‐person variances from between‐level factor estimates.

RESULTS

Exploratory factor analysis identified a 4‐between 3‐within factor structure based on fit statistics and clinical interpretability.

DISCUSSION

This study offers major methodological and conceptual advancements for management of BPSD within Alzheimer's disease and related dementias by introducing two related but distinct concepts of subsyndromes and symptom clusters.

Highlights

Because behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are dynamic temporal phenomenon, this introduces measurement error into aggregate group‐level estimates when trying to create subsyndromes. We propose a multilevel analysis to provide a more valid and reliable estimation by separating out variance due to within‐person daily fluctuations.

Using a multilevel exploratory factor analysis with intensive longitudinal data, we identified distinct and meaningful groups of BPSD. The four factors at the between‐person level represented subsyndromes that are based on how BPSD co‐occurred among persons with Alzheimer's disease (AD). These subsyndromes are clinically relevant because they share features of established clinical phenomena and may have similar neurobiological etiologies.

We also found three within‐person factors representing distinct symptom clusters. They are based on how BPSD clustered together on a given day for an individual with AD and related dementias. These clusters may have shared environmental triggers.
Selektive Kupplung von β‐(Borylvinyl)silanen durch eine Gold‐Katalysierte Hiyama‐Reaktion – ein Einfacher Weg zu Diaryl‐Substituierten Vinylboronaten
Authors: Zhang Shan , Wunsch Jonas F. , Rudolph Matthias , Rominger Frank , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: August 2024

Die Verwendung von diarylsubstituierten Vinylboronaten, einer Klasse chemischer Bausteine mit wohlbekanntem synthetischem Nutzen, ist hauptsächlich durch die Schwierigkeiten bei ihrer Herstellung begrenzt. Wir stellen hier eine bequeme synthetische Strategie vor, die auf einer goldkatalysierten Hiyama‐Arylierung von (Z)‐β‐(Borylvinyl)silanen basiert, die durch Hydroborierung von Silylalkinen leicht zugänglich sind. Durch Ausnutzung der hoch elektronegativen Natur des Gold(III)‐Zwischenprodukts (das durch lichtunterstützte Oxidation mit Aryldiazoniumsalzen zugänglich ist) wird eine selektive Aktivierung der Silylgruppe in Gegenwart der Boreinheit erreicht. Dies eröffnet einen Weg zur selektiven Synthese von Diaryl‐substituierten Vinylboronaten. Die Reaktion weist einen breiten Substratbereich, eine ausgezeichnete Toleranz gegenüber funktionellen Gruppen und eine perfekte Chemoselektivität auf. Durch experimentelle Studien und Dichtefunktionaltheorie (DFT)‐Berechnungen konnten wir den Mechanismus der Reaktion aufklären. Das synthetische Potenzial wurde durch nachgeschaltete Transformationen demonstriert, die einen einfachen Weg zu bifunktionellen Phenanthrenen und Triaryl‐substituierten Olefinen bieten.
Oberflächenspannungsmanipulation mit sichtbarem Licht durch sensibilisierte Disäquilibrierung von photoschaltbaren Amphiphilen
Authors: Gemen Julius , Stövesand Bastian , Glorius Frank , Ravoo Bart Jan
Published: August 2024

Die Isomerisierung von Azoarenen steht im Mittelpunkt zahlreicher Anwendungen, von der Katalyse über die Energiespeicherung bis hin zur Photopharmakologie. Während ein effizienter Wechsel zwischen ihren E‐ und Z‐Isomeren überwiegend mit UV‐Licht erfolgt, haben Klajn und Mitarbeiter in einer kürzlich publizierten Studie die Sensibilisierung von E‐Azoaren mit sichtbarem Licht und ihre anschließende Isomerisierung als ein Werkzeug eingeführt, das als ‚Disequilibration by Sensitization under Confinement (DESC)‘ bezeichnet wird und hohe Ausbeuten des Z‐Isomers erzielt. Dieser Wirt‐Gast‐Ansatz ist jedoch noch immer auf minimal substituierte Azoarene beschränkt und nur begrenzt auf komplexe molekulare Systeme anwendbar. In der vorliegenden Studie erweitern wir DESC für die Assemblierung von Tensiden an der Luft‐Wasser‐Grenzfläche. Wir nutzen unsere Erfahrung mit photoschaltbaren Amphiphilen, um die Oberflächenspannung von Wasser durch reversible Arylazopyrazol‐Isomerisierung erheblich zu verändern. Nachdem wir zunächst die Bindung geladener Tenside an den Wirt untersuchen, stellen wir fest, dass die Unterschiede beider Isomere hinsichtlich ihrer Oberflächenaktivität bei Schaltung mit sichtbarem Licht mit der von UV‐Lichtanregung vergleichbar sind. Die Methode wird für einen großen Konzentrationsbereich demonstriert und kann je nach gewähltem Sensibilisator mit grünem oder rotem Licht durchgeführt werden. Die unkomplizierte Umsetzung der Sensibilisierung durch Photoschalter in einem komplexen molekularen Netzwerk zeigt, wie DESC die Verbesserung bestehender Systeme und die Entwicklung neuer, durch sichtbares Licht angetriebener Anwendungen ermöglicht.
Albuquerque's Water Authority and Parks & Recreation Transform Water Management
Authors: Bustos Carlos A.
Published: August 2024

Key Takeaways

US Southwest cities can benefit from innovative conservation approaches to further reduce water demand amid rising population growth and drought driven by climate change.

To ensure a resilient water supply, Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority has successfully used adaptive strategies for 30 years to improve consumptive‐use efficiency.

The Water Authority's partnership with the city's Parks Department takes a holistic water management approach to meet water supply needs while promoting responsible usage.
A multi‐stimuli‐responsive fluorescence material based on 1,8‐naphthalimide
Authors: Chen Meihui , Li Yi , Tian Haixia , Xie Donghong , Zhu Yuping , Wu Yuanbin , Zhang Xiazhong , Zhu Mingguang
Published: August 2024

A pair of 1,8‐naphthalimides (NPIs) were designed and successfully synthesized through embellishing amino‐containing NPI with 4‐diethylaminosalicyladehyde and 4‐diethylaminobenzaldehyde, respectively. Their structures were fully confirmed by 1H/13C NMR, HR‐MS and FT‐IR spectroscopic studies. Their photophysical properties were systematically investigated in different solvents of varied polarity, in THF/water mixtures with varying water fractions (fw), and in THF solvent with varying concentrations of NPIs. It inferred that the distinct differences in emission between two NPIs during self‐assembled process could be ascribed that the hydroxyl‐containing NPI allowed the excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer process between ‐OH and CH=N units in the aggregation state. Interestingly, the solid of 4‐diethylaminosalicyladehyde‐functionalized NPI exhibited multi‐stimuli‐responsive fluorescence changes involving mechanofluorochromism and HCl/NH3 vapor stimulus‐induced conversion. However, no remarkable change was observed in the photoluminescence (PL) spectra for the solid of 4‐diethylaminobenzaldehyde‐functionalized NPI under the stimuli of mechanical force and organic solvent.
Design of a two‐degrees‐of‐freedom robotic arm for monitoring applications for teaching robotics and artificial intelligence technology
Authors: Valenzuela‐Domínguez Fausto A. , Munguía‐Martínez Laura F. , Meléndez‐Tiznado Sofía , Guzmán‐Limón Zuneth , Benitez Victor H. , Félix‐Herrán Luis C.
Published: August 2024

This manuscript proposes a methodology for teaching undergraduate engineering students fundamental concepts of artificial intelligence and robotics applicable in Industry 4.0 using a project‐based learning strategy. A low‐cost prototype of a two‐degrees‐of‐freedom robotic arm was designed and implemented for monitoring applications, integrating the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence technology. Inverse and direct kinematics are applied in the robotic arm design, enabling the execution of desired trajectories by the robot's end effector. The robot, capable of following user‐programmed trajectories, uses two servo motors with a 180° mobility range, integrated into a 3D printed structure made from polylactic materials, whereas the programmable logic was accomplished using an ESP32 microcontroller. Furthermore, the robot is controlled through a MATLAB GUI (Graphical User Interface), designed to obtain detailed process information such as activity status, trajectory type, and quality. The results demonstrate the feasibility of integrating various cutting‐edge technologies to teach fundamental concepts of Industry 4.0. The proposed methodology could allow educators to design a robotics course where students are motivated by practical experience implementing impactful technologies beyond the academic realm.
The everlasting effect of a ‘thank‐you’
Authors: Skipworth Stan
Published: August 2024

Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to get together with a former colleague who had recently retired after a tremendously successful career, concluding his law enforcement service as a captain with a very well‐respected agency.
Nadine: A large language model‐driven intelligent social robot with affective capabilities and human‐like memory
Authors: Kang Hangyeol , Ben Moussa Maher , Thalmann Nadia Magnenat
Published: August 2024

In this work, we describe our approach to developing an intelligent and robust social robotic system for the Nadine social robot platform. We achieve this by integrating large language models (LLMs) and skillfully leveraging the powerful reasoning and instruction‐following capabilities of these types of models to achieve advanced human‐like affective and cognitive capabilities. This approach is novel compared to the current state‐of‐the‐art LLM‐based agents which do not implement human‐like long‐term memory or sophisticated emotional capabilities. We built a social robot system that enables generating appropriate behaviors through multimodal input processing, bringing episodic memories accordingly to the recognized user, and simulating the emotional states of the robot induced by the interaction with the human partner. In particular, we introduce an LLM‐agent frame for social robots, social robotics reasoning and acting, serving as a core component for the interaction module in our system. This design has brought forth the advancement of social robots and aims to increase the quality of human–robot interaction.
Can Angle Measures Be Useful in MCR Analyses?
Authors: Neymeyr Klaus , Beese Martina , Abdollahi Hamid , Sawall Mathias
Published: August 2024

In MCR analyses, the similarity of pairs of spectra or concentration profiles can be measured in terms of the acute angle that is enclosed by the representing vectors. Acute angles between vectors can be generalized to pairs of subspaces. So‐called canonical angles, also called principal angles, measure the mutual orientation of a pair of subspaces. This work discusses how angles and canonical angles can support multivariate curve resolution analyses. A canonical angle analysis (CAA) can help to detect changes of the chemical composition during a chemical reaction in a way comparable, but different to the evolving factor analysis (EFA).
Construction of Covalent Triazine Frameworks with Electronic Donor‐Acceptor System for Efficient Photocatalytic C−H Hydroxylation of Imidazole[1,2‐α]Pyridine Derivatives
Authors: Qiao Huijie , Zhao Kun , Wang Shixing , Xu Xiaoxu , Chen Sicheng , Kong Xiangtao , Yang Liting , Jiao Mingli , Zhai Lipeng
Published: August 2024

Covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) are promising heterogeneous photocatalyst candidates owing to their excellent stability, conjugacy, and tunability. In this study, a series of CTFs decorated with different substituents (H, MeO, and F) were synthesised and utilised as photocatalysts for C−H activation reactions. The corresponding optoelectronic properties could be precisely regulated by the electronic effects of different substituents in the nanopore channels of the CTFs; these CTFs were effective photocatalysts for C−H activation in organic synthesis due to their unique structures and optoelectronic properties. Methoxy‐substituted CTF (MeO‐CTF) exhibited extraordinary catalytic performance and reusability in C−H functionalization by constructing an electronic donor‐acceptor system, achieving the highest yield in the photocatalytic C3–H hydroxylation of 2‐phenylimidazole[1,2‐α]pyridine. This strategy provides a new scaffold for the rational design of CTFs as efficient photocatalysts for organic synthesis.
Predicting three phase (hydrate–liquid–vapour) equilibria of mixed hydrates in guest gas swapping: AI‐based approach versus physical modelling
Authors: Patel Gauri Shankar , Jana Amiya K.
Published: August 2024

Prior to investigating the guest gas replacement characteristics, the estimation of equilibrium condition for the coexisting hydrate–liquid–vapour (HLV) phases is crucial. For this, there are various studies which have reported the physical thermodynamic model for equilibrium estimation. In this contribution, a data‐driven formulation is developed as an alternative approach within the framework of artificial intelligence (AI) to predict the three‐phase equilibrium of binary and ternary mixed hydrates associated with guest swapping at diverse geological conditions. For this, we use the experimental data sets related to guest (pure and mixed CO2) replacement in hydrate structures with and without salts (i.e., single and multiple salts of NaCl, KCl, and CaCl2). Various training algorithms, namely Levenberg–Marquardt (LM), scaled conjugate gradient (SCG), Broyden–Fletcher–Goldfarb–Shanno (BFGS) quasi‐Newton, and Bayesian regularization (BR), are employed to formulate the artificial neural network (ANN) model. Performing a systematic comparison between them, we select the best option suited for the hydrate system. The best performing ANN model is compared with an existing physical thermodynamic model for predicting the equilibrium condition in pure water. It is observed that the ANN (BR) model consistently secures the lower percent absolute average relative deviation (i.e., %AARD <2%) than the latest physical model. Finally, the developed AI model is extended to predict the three‐phase HLV equilibrium in presence of salt solutions.
A study on enhancing oil recovery efficiency through bubble displacement based on microfluidic technology
Authors: Xu Fan , Jin Yujie , Fan Yiqiang
Published: August 2024

Tight sandstone contains a large number of oil and gas resources, but because of its ultra‐low porosity, permeability, and strong hydrophilicity, the oil recovery is low. Microfluidic technology, as an emerging research technique, offers advantages in visualizing fluid flow, reducing experimental reagent consumption, and accurately simulating the pore structure of sandstone using microfluidic chips. This study presents an effective research methodology for improving tertiary oil recovery efficiency in sandstone. By analyzing pore slice images of sandstone cores and employing image processing techniques, the study extracted characteristic dimensions of the sandstone and designed a microfluidic chip. A displacement system was constructed using high‐speed cameras, constant‐pressure pumps, and microscopes to monitor the oil displacement process. A bubble generation device based on ultrafiltration membranes was proposed to introduce generated bubbles into the microfluidic chip with a sandstone structure for oil displacement studies. Real‐time monitoring of the displacement process was conducted. Water and foam were used as displacing agents to investigate the displacement process in the microfluidic chip mimicking the sandstone core structure. Additionally, analysis and comparison were performed on foam formulation, surfactant concentration, and foam proportion, quantitatively evaluating the oil displacement efficiency under various experimental conditions. The proposed research is helpful for the understanding of the foam flooding process on a micro‐scale and of significant application potential for the enhanced oil recovery of sandstone reservoirs.
OCR issues new guidance on Section 504 protections for epilepsy
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: August 2024

In June 2024, the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights issued new resources for preventing discrimination against students with epilepsy postsecondary institutions and other schools (https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/ocr-factsheet-epilepsy-202406.pdf).
Discover how resolving conflict becomes act of commitment
Authors: Freebairn‐Smith Laura
Published: August 2024

Resolving conflict is an act of connection. It's an act of commitment to a relationship and a person.
Impact of transforming karst mountainous forests into urban parks on plant diversity patterns
Authors: Wang Weize , Gao Xiaoyan , Cen Chunhua , Jian Mengping , Wang Zijin , Yang Jingyi
Published: August 2024

The conversion of urban montane forest resources into urban parks requires careful assessment to understand its impacts on plant diversity over time. This study aims to enhance urban biodiversity conservation strategies by analyzing how habitat type and park age affect woody plant diversity. We surveyed woody plant species in 60 sample plots across two different habitats (remnant forest vs. artificial green space) within three mountain parks in Guiyang, China, established at different times. The alpha diversity of saplings/seedlings was significantly higher in remnant forests than in artificial green spaces. Artificial green spaces exhibited more homogenous woody plant composition compared with remnant forests. Newer parks showed greater variation in plant composition between the two habitats than older parks. Indicative species in remnant forests were predominantly native, whereas those in artificial green spaces were mainly ornamental species. The transformation of karst mountainous forests into urban parks leads to the homogenization of woody plant composition and impedes the regeneration of saplings/seedlings. Therefore, it is crucial to manage these conversions carefully and strive to preserve as many native species as possible to support urban plant diversity conservation.
Precision prediction of heart failure events in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and mildly reduced ejection fraction using multi‐parametric cardiovascular magnetic resonance
Authors: Hammersley Daniel J. , Mukhopadhyay Srinjay , Chen Xiuyu , Jones Richard E. , Ragavan Aaraby , Javed Saad , Rajabali Husein , Androulakis Emmanuel , Curran Lara , Mach Lukas , Khalique Zohya , Baruah Resham , Guha Kaushik , Gregson John , Zhao Shihua , De Marvao Antonio , Tayal Upasana , Lota Amrit S. , Ware James S. , Pennell Dudley J. , Prasad Sanjay K. , Halliday Brian P.
Published: August 2024

Aims

To assess whether left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (GLS), derived from cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), is associated with (i) progressive heart failure (HF), and (ii) sudden cardiac death (SCD) in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy with mildly reduced ejection fraction (DCMmrEF).

Methods and results

We conducted a prospective observational cohort study of patients with DCM and LV ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥40% assessed by CMR, including feature‐tracking to assess LV GLS and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). Long‐term adjudicated follow‐up included (i) HF hospitalization, LV assist device implantation or HF death, and (ii) SCD or aborted SCD (aSCD). Of 355 patients with DCMmrEF (median age 54 years [interquartile range 43–64], 216 men [60.8%], median LVEF 49% [46–54]) followed up for a median 7.8 years (5.2–9.4), 32 patients (9%) experienced HF events and 19 (5%) died suddenly or experienced aSCD. LV GLS was associated with HF events in a multivariable model when considered as either a continuous (per % hazard ratio [HR] 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–1.21, p = 0.045) or dichotomized variable (LV GLS > −15.4%: HR 2.70, 95% CI 1.30–5.94, p = 0.008). LGE presence was
not associated with HF events (HR 1.49, 95% CI 0.73–3.01, p = 0.270). Conversely, LV GLS was not associated with SCD/aSCD (per % HR 1.07, 95% CI 0.95–1.22, p = 0.257), whereas LGE presence was (HR 3.58, 95% CI 1.39–9.23, p = 0.008). LVEF was neither associated with HF events nor SCD/aSCD.

Conclusion

Multi‐parametric CMR has utility for precision prognostic stratification of patients with DCMmrEF. LV GLS stratifies risk of progressive HF, while LGE stratifies SCD risk.
Electrocoating of polyaniline on graphite carbon and activated carbon cloth surfaces as an anode and its effect on performance of microbial fuel cell
Authors: Afrianto Andika Wahyu , Sreearunothai Paiboon , Sombatmankhong Korakot , Babel Sandhya
Published: August 2024

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) is a bioelectrochemical‐based reactor that can generate electrical energy directly from wastewater by utilizing microbial activity that oxidizes the waste organic matter. This study aims to synthesize polyaniline (PANI) and deposit on a graphite carbon electrode (GCE) and activated carbon cloth (ACC) surface to use as an anode material for MFCs. The MFC performance was evaluated using oxygen and ferricyanide as electron acceptors. PANI was electropolymerized from its aniline monomer and deposited using an electrophoretic deposition method onto the electrode surface. A PANI thin film was characterized using FTIR, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), BET, and electrochemical analysis. The analysis results show the characteristic peaks of PANI at 1557 cm−1, demonstratinjg the existence of quinoid rings (NQN), while the peaks at 1479 and 1400 cm−1 corresponding to the benzenoid (NBN) stretching in the PANI structure. The FESEM analysis confirmed that PANI appeared to have a porous structure on modified electrodes. It was found that the best system was MFC with ferricyanide as the electron acceptor. The highest power density produced is 254 mWm−2 from GCE‐PANI and 16.47 mWm−2 from ACC‐PANI. The normalized energy recovery of GCE‐PANI and ACC‐PANI in ferricyanide is 0.115 kWh kgCOD−1 and 5.67 × 10−3 kWh kgCOD−1, respectively. The COD removal was observed to be 88.8% for GCE‐PANI and 87.2% for ACC‐PANI from 1000 mg/L COD.
Bibliometric analysis of the correlation between H. pylori and inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Li Yantong , Li Limin , Yin Wenmeng , Wan Juyi , Zhong Xiaolin
Published: August 2024

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is prevalent and associated with the development of various gastric diseases. On the other hand, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an immune‐related intestinal disorder influenced by factors like gut microbiota imbalance, genetic predisposition, and environmental influences. Despite extensive research on the H. pylori–IBD relationship, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis in this area is lacking. Therefore, this study aims to use bibliometric methods to explore research trends, hotspots, and frontiers in H. pylori and IBD‐related research, offering valuable insights for future research and clinical practice.

Methods

We retrieved relevant literature on H. pylori and IBD from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) and Scopus databases covering 2007 to 2024. We perform a comprehensive analysis within the WoSCC literature. We compare these findings with relevant results from Scopus.

Results

Research on H. pylori and IBD has remained prominent in recent years. The United States leads in output, with strong contributions from authors, institutions, and journals. China, despite being a developing country, shows rapid article growth, signaling growing research potential. Key topics include Crohn's disease, gut microbiota, H. pylori infection, and ulcerative colitis. Newer interests include health, cancer prevention, and chronic gastritis.

Conclusion

Over the past, research on H. pylori and IBD has primarily centered around epidemiology and clinical studies. The question of whether H. pylori definitively offers protective effects against IBD remains unresolved. Therefore, further investigation could explore the underlying mechanisms of their relationship or initiate long‐term prospective cohort studies to gather more compelling evidence.
Lifestyle, medication use, and age considerations with acne vulgaris: A prospective study
Authors: Snyder Ashley M. , Stone Caroline J. , Ufkes Nicole , Greene Tom , Playdon Mary C. , Murtaugh Maureen A. , Vanneman Megan E. , Secrest Aaron M.
Published: August 2024

Background

Lifestyle has been associated with acne, but few studies assess how the relationship changes over time. Observational studies often overlook the effects of acne medication use and participant age in relationships with lifestyle‐related factors.

Objectives

To describe relationships between lifestyle‐related factors, medication use, and age in adolescent and young adult acne patients and acne‐free controls.

Methods

This prospective study recruited 12‐ to 24‐year‐olds with or without acne at baseline. Surveys were electronically administered at enrolment and again 6 weeks later. Analyses were conducted on all participants who had complete baseline data (N = 190) and participants who had complete baseline and follow‐up data (N = 61).

Results

Among 190 participants who completed the baseline survey, ages ranged from 12 to 24 years, but acne cases were concentrated in the middle of this range while controls had comparably more participants with ages towards the extremes. Among 61 participants who completed both baseline and follow‐up surveys, no participants indicated worse acne over the 6 weeks, and most acne cases believed their acne improved (n = 25 [69.4%]). Acne cases who used medication daily (N = 24) saw improved emotion‐related quality of life between the two assessments (mean ± standard deviation: 43.4 ± 24.4 to 29.1 ± 23.7; p < 0.001). Among acne cases who used medication daily, average fruit or vegetable consumption increased from 2.4 ± 2.0 to 3.0 ± 2.9 times per day over the preceding 7 days (p = 0.02). Among acne cases who believed their acne improved over the 6 weeks post‐dermatology visit (N = 25), average days of skin picking over the previous 7 days declined between assessments (3.9 ± 2.4 to 2.4 ± 1.9 days; p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Medication use and age differences should be considered when designing future studies on acne and lifestyle‐related factors.
A methodology for enhancing bandwidth with keeping steepness of the ladder filters exploiting acoustic‐wave‐lumped‐element resonators
Authors: Tang Xianli , Jia Yonghao , Zhang Qiaozhen , Lu Wei‐Bing
Published: August 2024

A methodology to acquire a wide bandwidth and steep transition of a hybrid ladder filter with the acoustic‐wave‐lumped‐element‐resonators (AWLRs) structure is proposed. Different from previous works, a unit of the new AWLR structure with two lumped elements respectively in series and shunt is proposed. It can change both the series‐resonant frequency and the parallel‐resonant frequency of the acoustic wave (AW) resonator to enhance the bandwidth of the hybrid ladder filter. For the ladder structure, all the AW resonators possess the same resonant frequency and impedance. This ladder structure is also used to keep the steep transition of the hybrid filter. For the validations, two‐stage and four‐stage AWLRs‐based hybrid filters are designed, manufactured, and tested. They include (1) a two‐stage filter with an insertion loss (IL) of 0.9 dB, a fractional bandwidth (FBW) of 1.90kt2 (kt2 is the electromechanical coupling coefficient), a center frequency of 1249.3 MHz, and (2) a four‐stage filter with the IL of 1.3 dB, the FBW of 1.86kt2, the SF30 dB/3 dB (shape factor defined as 30‐dB bandwidth divided by 3‐dB bandwidth) of 2.52, the figure of merit (defined as FBW divided by SF30 dB/3 dB) is 0.74kt2 which is the best result, a center frequency of 1249.4 MHz.
Single machine scheduling with the total weighted late work and rejection cost
Authors: Sang Yao‐Wen , Wang Jun‐Qiang , Sterna Małgorzata , Błażewicz Jacek
Published: August 2024

We study a single machine scheduling problem with the total weighted late work and the total rejection cost. The late work of a job is the part of this job executed after its due date, and the rejection cost of a job is the fee of rejecting to process it. We consider a Pareto scheduling and two restricted scheduling problems. The Pareto scheduling problem aims to find all non‐dominated values of the total weighted late work and the total rejection cost. The restricted scheduling problems are dedicated to minimizing the total weighted late work with the total rejection cost not greater than a given threshold, and minimizing the total rejection cost with the total weighted late work not greater than a given threshold, respectively. For the Pareto scheduling problem, we prove that it is binary NP‐hard by providing a pseudo‐polynomial time algorithm, and give a fully polynomial time approximation scheme (FPTAS). For the restricted scheduling problems, we prove that there are no FPTASes unless , which answers an open problem. Moreover, we develop relaxed FPTASes for these two restricted scheduling problems.
Successes and Challenges in Nonrevenue Water Management
Authors: Kunkel George
Published: August 2024

Water loss control tools have become more precise and robust while their importance for measuring and controlling nonrevenue water has increased.
Intracranial epidural abscess secondary to medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw: A case report
Authors: Shibata Akio , Kawahara Kou , Ono Shoya , Hatsukawa Kumiko , Tange Yuki
Published: August 2024

Background

An intracranial abscess secondary to medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a rare condition that can spread to the skull through continuous structures.

Case presentation

A 71‐year‐old man with an intracranial epidural abscess caused by MRONJ in the maxilla. Because it is refractory to conservative treatment, inflammation had spread from sphenoid sinusitis, resulting in an intracranial abscess, and then antibiotic therapy and surgical drainage contributed to successful outcomes.

Conclusion

Intracranial abscess should be suspected when MRONJ extends to the adjacent structure, causing sudden headache and loss of consciousness. Early surgical intervention should be considered to reduce the risk of necrosis progressing.
Mechanical properties and microstructure of hemp hurd reinforced polylactide biocomposites for 3D printing
Authors: Xiao Xianglian , Chevali Venkata S. , Song Pingan , Yu Bin , Feng Jiabing , Loh Thomas W. , Wang Hao
Published: August 2024

Polylactide (PLA) biocomposite filaments containing hemp hurd (HH) of variable particle size were evaluated in comparison with injection‐molded counterparts using single/twin screw extrusion in this study. HH particle size (35, 50, and 160 μm) was parametrically investigated for its efficacy within PLA/HH biocomposites and fused filament fabrication (FFF)‐printed parts by assessing its effect on performance through rheological, microstructural, mechanical, and surface finish analyses. In addition, melt flow indexing, rheometry, scanning electron microscopy, mechanical testing, and x‐ray computed tomography were utilized to analyze microstructure, mechanical performance, and surface roughness. With an increase in particle size of the HH, the corresponding biocomposites showed increased flowability, and the injection‐molded specimens showed increased impact strength. The FFF printing of the biocomposite filament presented no challenges, and the mechanical properties of FFF parts enhanced with a particle size smaller than the printed layer thickness. Compared with injection‐molded parts, FFF‐printed samples showed higher impact strength. The FFF‐printed PLA/HH biocomposite samples showed considerable potential over their injection molded alternatives for low‐volume specialized applications.

Highlights

Polylactide (PLA)/hemp hurd (HH) biocomposite filaments with different particle sizes of HH were developed.

Melt flow and impact strength increased when HH particle size increased.

3D‐printed part porosity and roughness increased when HH particle size increased.

Higher HH particle size enhanced the mechanical performance of 3D‐printed parts.

3D‐printed parts exhibited higher impact strength than injection molded parts
Association between neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio and length of hospital stay in an acute psychiatric hospital: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Tsuji Rikako , Hiura Yuto , Ishikura Yuki , Sueyoshi Toshinari , Sho Naoaki , Narushima Naoki , Haoka Takeshi , Terao Atsushi , Kikuchi Akira
Published: August 2024

Aim

The available evidence for predicting length of stay in acute psychiatric hospitals includes demographics, diagnosis, and treatment variables. This study aimed to evaluate the association between neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and length of hospital stay in an acute psychiatric hospital.

Methods

A total of 116 patients who were admitted to an acute psychiatric ward at Urawa Neuropsychiatric Sanatorium (Saitama, Japan) from August 2022 to December 2022 were eligible for this study. Laboratory data of lymphocytes and neutrophils were assessed on the first day of admission and NLR was calculated based on the data. Participants were categorized into two groups, high NLR and low NLR, which were set as predictor variables, as well as using NLR as a continuous variable. Multiple linear regression was performed to determine the association between NLR and length of hospital stay, adjusting for confounding factors.

Results

A total of 90 participants were included in this study. The association of NLR as a continuous variable and length of hospital stay was not significant. When we categorized participants into high‐ and low‐NLR groups, the association was significant even after adjusting by covariates (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Categorized NLR was positively associated with the length of hospital stay in patients admitted to an acute psychiatric hospital. Categorized NLR may predict the length of hospital stay for patients who are admitted to an acute psychiatric hospital.
Metadata for Data dIscoverability aNd Study rEplicability in obseRVAtional Studies (MINERVA): Development and Pilot of a Metadata List and Catalogue in Europe
Authors: Pajouheshnia Romin , Gini Rosa , Gutierrez Lia , Swertz Morris A. , Hyde Eleanor , Sturkenboom Miriam , Arana Alejandro , Franzoni Carla , Ehrenstein Vera , Roberto Giuseppe , Gil Miguel , Maciá Miguel Angel , Schäfer Wiebke , Haug Ulrike , Thurin Nicolas H. , Lassalle Régis , Droz‐Perroteau Cécile , Zaccagnino Silvia , Busto Maria Paula , Middelkoop Bas , Gembert Karin , Sanchez‐Saez Francisco , Rodriguez‐Bernal Clara , Sanfélix‐Gimeno Gabriel , Hurtado Isabel , Acosta Manuel Barreiro‐de , Poblador‐Plou Beatriz , Carmona‐Pírez Jonás , Gimeno‐Miguel Antonio , Prados‐Torres Alexandra , Schultze Anna , Jansen Ella , Herings Ron , Kuiper Josine , Locatelli Igor , Jazbar Janja , Žerovnik Špela , Kos Mitja , Smit Steven , Lind Sirje , Metspalu Andres , Simou Stefania , Hedenmalm Karin , Cochino Ana , Alcini Paolo , Kurz Xavier , Perez‐Gutthann Susana
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Metadata for data dIscoverability aNd study rEplicability in obseRVAtional studies (MINERVA), a European Medicines Agency–funded project (EUPAS39322), defined a set of metadata to describe real‐world data sources (RWDSs) and piloted metadata collection in a prototype catalogue to assist investigators from data source discoverability through study conduct.

Methods

A list of metadata was created from a review of existing metadata catalogues and recommendations, structured interviews, a stakeholder survey, and a technical workshop. The prototype was designed to comply with the FAIR principles (findable, accessible, interoperable, reusable), using MOLGENIS software. Metadata collection was piloted by 15 data access partners (DAPs) from across Europe.

Results

A total of 442 metadata variables were defined in six domains: institutions (organizations connected to a data source); data banks (data collections sustained by an organization); data sources (collections of linkable data banks covering a common underlying population); studies; networks (of institutions); and common data models (CDMs). A total of 26 institutions were recorded in the prototype. Each DAP populated the metadata of one data source and its selected data banks. The number of data banks varied by data source; the most common data banks were hospital administrative records and pharmacy dispensation records (10 data sources each). Quantitative metadata were successfully extracted from three data sources conforming to different CDMs and entered into the prototype.

Conclusions

A metadata list was finalized, a prototype was successfully populated, and a good practice guide was developed. Setting up and maintaining a metadata catalogue on RWDSs will require substantial effort to support discoverability of data sources and reproducibility of studies in Europe.