bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of timing jitter for a wavelength‐division‐multiplexed dispersion‐managed optical soliton transmission system
Authors: Sugahara Hiroto , Nonaka Yasumichi , Maruta Akihiro , Kodama Yuji
Published: November 2023

In a wavelength‐division‐multiplexed optical soliton transmission system, collisions of solitons between different channels induce frequency shifts and time shifts of the signal which result in undesirable timing jitter. The residual frequency shift after collision can be reduced by managing the dispersion value periodically along the line. In this paper, we theoretically show a mechanism of the collision‐induced frequency shift and time shift for a dispersion‐managed line. We also analyze the collision‐induced timing jitter and Gordon–Haus jitter simultaneously and propose an optimal path averaged dispersion of the line with respect to minimum timing jitter. © 2001 Scripta Technica, Electron Comm Jpn Pt 1, 84(10): 10–15, 2001
Multiple‐symbol differential detection of APSK and limited search using (M,L) algorithm
Authors: Machida Masanobu , Handa Shiro , Oshita Shinjiro
Published: November 2023

A multiple‐symbol differential detection scheme based on the ML criterion is adopted to MAPSK, and the decision rule to estimate the transmitted signals is constructed theoretically, including terms for the channel noise power. SER performance of star QAM and (4,12) QAM, which are typical constellations for 16APSK, under the decision rule is evaluated. It is confirmed that the performance of this decision rule is better than that using the former rule. In addition, we introduce the (M,L) algorithm into this detection scheme to reduce tree search and confirm its performance by computer simulation. Finally, the performance shows good proximity to that of the ideal coherent detection on the AWGN channel. © 2001 Scripta Technica, Electron Comm Jpn Pt 1, 84(10): 27–35, 2001
Fabrication method for grating‐mode‐type SAW resonator used in voltage‐controlled oscillator: optimum shape for electrode fingers and investigation of accurate process techniques
Authors: Asai Kengo , Hikita Mitsutaka , Isobe Atsushi , Sumioka Atsushi , Tada Takeshi
Published: November 2023

An optimum electrode finger shape is obtained for the grating‐mode‐type SAW resonator on a 15° YX‐LiNbO3with a large relative bandwidth used for a high‐C/N broadband VCO. Spurious responses by Rayleigh wave need to be suppressed completely in the SAW resonator. Its impedance characteristics are extremely sensitive to the variations of electrode finger linewidth and film thickness. The specifications for the film thickness and linewidth of the electrode finger are derived by simulation and experiment. It is demonstrated that the electrode finger film thickness ofh/λ0= 0.1325 and the relative electrode finger linewidth ratio ofL/(L+S} = 0.575 are standard and their deviations need to be controlled accurately in fabrication. Assuming applications to industrial wireless terminals at 170 and 420 MHz, process accuracy enhancement is discussed so that the electrode finger specifications are satisfied. In the present SAW resonator with a thick electrode finger, an antireflection film is introduced in the photoresist process. Al‐Cu alloy is used for the electrode fingers to produce an excellent impedance characteristic. The VCO using the present SAW resonator satisfies the specifications of the above wireless terminals. © 2001 Scripta Technica, Electron Comm Jpn Pt 2, 84(9): 11–20, 2001
Development of a CMOS imager LSI with focal‐plane motion detectors
Authors: Okamoto Fuyuki , Fujimoto Yuki , Furumiya Masayuki , Hatano Keisuke , Nakashiba Yasutaka , Yotsuyanagi Michio
Published: November 2023

A new CMOS imager having a motion detection function has been developed. This CMOS imager can detect the motion of the image projected on a sensor array, scan automatically only a partial area including a place where the motion is detected as the focus. As a result, reducing the amount of data transfer and improving the frame rate have become possible. The detection of a moving body can be performed by motion detector circuits, which operate regardless of the frame rate. The motion detectors are sparsely placed in the sensor array to maintain the high pixel density. Other circuit techniques include the unity‐gain pixel amps, and a multistage readout circuit. A 5.8‐ × 8.7‐mm chip including 192 × 192 pixels and 7 × 7 motion detectors has been developed using a 0.35‐μm CMOS three‐layer metal process technology. Experimental results have successfully confirmed the functions of the chip. © 2001 Scripta Technica, Electron Comm Jpn Pt 2, 84(9): 28–35, 2001
The supply chain information sharing path based on the internet of things
Authors: Zeng Xiao , Yi Jing
Published: November 2023

In the context of globalization and digitization, supply chain information sharing and circulation have become important links in supply chain management. The current difficulty in sharing supply chain information is significant, and there are issues of information asymmetry and incompleteness among co participants. In order to improve the integrity and efficiency of supply chain information sharing and enhance the competitiveness of the high supply chain, this article conducts in‐depth research on the path of supply chain information sharing using Internet of Things technology. This article first analyzes the level of information sharing, influencing factors, and existing problems, then explores the Internet of Things technology, and finally establishes specific methods and means for the supply chain information sharing path through the Internet of Things technology. To verify the effectiveness of the supply chain information sharing path based on the Internet of Things, in this article, a comparison was made between the development effects of enterprise supply chains before and after applying the supply chain information sharing path based on the Internet of Things. The results show that after applying the IoT based supply chain information sharing path, the market price, production capacity, and market forecasting ability of enterprises have all increased by more than 20%. The conclusion indicates that the Internet of Things can help optimize supply chain information sharing and provide a new perspective for enterprise supply chain management and development.
Identifying Research Priorities: Themes and Directions for the TESOL International Research Foundation1
Authors: DUFF PATRICIA A. , BAILEY KATHLEEN M.
Published: November 2023

The sections in this compilation were solicited for an invitational research priorities conference organized by G. Richard Tucker, Donald Freeman, and Kathleen M. Bailey and held in conjunction with a planning meeting of the TESOL International Research Foundation in Alexandria, Virginia, United States, in February 2001. The contributors, who attended the conference, subsequently revised their submissions slightly for wider dissemination.
Identification of N‐ and O‐Linked Oligosaccharides in Human Seminal Vesicles
Authors: ARENAS MARÍA I. , ROYUELA MAR , FRAILE BENITO , PANIAGUA RICARDO , WILHELM BEATE , AUMÜLLER GERARD
Published: November 2023

The main oligosaccharide residues and the saccharide linkage in infantile and adult human seminal vesicles were studied by means of lectin histochemistry at light and electron microscopy levels. In adult glands, the epithelial cell cytoplasm and luminal content reacted positively to the following residues: (GlcNAc)n (WGA), Galβ1,3GalNAc (PNA), GalNAcα1,3Gal (SBA), GalNAcα1,3GalNAc (HPA), Fucα1,2Galβ1,4GlcNAc (UEA‐I), and αL‐Fuc1,6DGlcNAc‐O‐Melibiose (AAA). The presence of intense staining in the luminal content suggest that glycoproteins containing these oligosaccharide moieties are secreted by epithelial cells. Adult epithelial cells also reacted to Neu5Acα2,6Gal (SNA), Neu5Acα2,3Galβ1,4GlcNAc (MAA), Galβ1,4GlcNAc (DSA), branched mannose chains (ConA), Man1,3Man (GNA), and Fucα1,2Galβ1,4GlcNAcFucα1,3GlcNAc (LTA) but reaction to these residues was weak (MAA, DSA, ConA, and LTA) or absent (SNA and GNA) in the gland lumen, which suggests that they belong to intracytoplasmic proteins. The chemical and enzymatic treatments used suggest that the residues recognized by SNA, MAA, PNA, DSA, HPA, and SBA belong to O‐linked oligosaccharides; those residues localized by ConA and GNA have an N‐glycosidic linkage, and those bound by WGA, LTA, UEA‐I, and AAA are linked to both N‐ and O‐oligosaccharides. In prepubertal seminal vesicles, reaction in the epithelial cell cytoplasm was similar to that observed in adults, except for GNA and HPA, which showed a weaker reaction. However, the lumen of prepubertal seminal vesicles showed intense reaction to WGA and SBA only. The chemical and enzymatic treatments suggest that the scanty glycoproteins secreted by the prepubertal glands belong to the mucin‐type.
Suppression of Spermatogenesis With Desogestrel and Testosterone Pellets is Not Enhanced by Addition of Finasteride
Authors: KINNIBURGH D. , ANDERSON R. A. , BAIRD D. T.
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: Conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by the action of 5α‐reductase can amplify androgen action. This may be of particular importance in the presence of low testosterone concentrations and may contribute to maintenance of spermatogenesis in a proportion of men receiving male contraceptive regimens. We therefore investigated whether the addition of finasteride, a 5α‐reductase inhibitor, to a prototype male hormonal contraceptive regimen consisting of desogestrel (150 μg orally daily) and repeated administration of testosterone pellets (2 × 200 mg per 12 weeks) would enhance suppression of spermatogenesis. Sixteen normal men were randomized to receive either the standard androgen/progestogen treatment alone (control group) or with finasteride (5 mg orally daily—FIN group) for 24 weeks. Both groups showed profound suppression of spermatogenesis with azoospermia being obtained in 6 of 8 subjects in the control group and in 5 of 7 in the FIN group. There were no significant differences between the groups with respect to sperm concentrations. Significant suppression of luteinizing hormone and follicle‐stimulating hormone was achieved within 2 weeks of treatment in both groups, while testosterone concentrations were maintained in the normal physiological range. DHT concentrations fell in both groups but were significantly lower in the FIN group. Gonadotropin and testosterone concentrations were similar for both regimens throughout the study. This study demonstrates the potential for long‐term suppression of spermatogenesis using a combination of an oral progestogen with repeated administration of a depot preparation of testosterone. However, these data do not support the involvement of 5α‐reductase in maintaining residual spermatogenesis during gonadotropin suppression for hormonal male contraception.
Book Review
Authors: Seftel Allen D.
Published: November 2023

Sexual Health for Men: The Complete Guide, by Richard F. Spark.
Epididymal Growth and Differentiation Are Altered in Human Cryptorchidism
Authors: de MIGUEL MARIA P. , MARIÑO JOSE M. , GONZALEZ‐PERAMATO PILAR , NISTAL MANUEL , REGADERA JAVIER
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: Despite the knowledge and histological classification of testicular lesions, epididymal lesions associated with cryptorchidism are not well defined and only macroscopic alterations have been reported. We have evaluated the alterations in the growth of both the epithelium and muscular wall of efferent ducts and epididymis in human patients with cryptorchidism from infancy to adulthood. In addition, by cytokeratin immunostaining we have also evaluated the stage of differentiation of each segment along the human postnatal life in these patients. A decrease is shown in the size of efferent and epididymal ducts in cryptorchid children compared with normal, age‐matched controls. The height of the epithelium, muscular wall, and lumen of the cryptorchid epididymis were reduced at every age studied. This decrease in all regions was seen even in the testicular quiescent period (1 to 4 years of age). In addition, the cryptorchid epididymis grows more slowly during the transition to the pubertal period. The smaller size of the cryptorchid epididymis in pubertal and adult men compared with that of normal men is due primarily to underdevelopment of the muscular wall and a reduction in epithelial height. The pattern of growth of cryptorchid efferent ducts and ductus epididymides parallels that in normal men, except that development of the lumen and muscular layer in the cauda epididymis region are delayed. Epithelial differentiation, monitored by cytokeratin expression, is minimal in efferent ducts and throughout the epididymis of the cryptorchid male, and this is already seen in children. In conclusion, our immunohistochemical and morphometric results show a reduced development of the human cryptorchid epididymis that is already evident in childhood. They indicate that cryptorchidism is a primary congenital illness of the testis and spermatic ducts, with evident lesions from the first years of life, and suggest that surgical descent would probably not be able to completely reverse these alterations.
Marked Species Specificity of Guinea Pig Luteinizing Hormone: Validation of a Bioassay
Authors: GAO CHANG‐QING , GIRI MIMI , Van HOECKE MARIE‐JOSE , MERTENS KATHELIJNE , VAN DEN SAFFELE JAN , KAUFMAN JEAN‐MARC
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: The Guinea pig is a potentially interesting alternative small animal model for the study of the neuroendocrine regulation of reproduction. However, appropriate gonadotropin assays are not widely available for this species. The aim of the present study was to validate a bioassay procedure for guinea pig luteinizing hormone (LH). The well‐established interstitial cell—testosterone in vitro bioassays with the use of dispersed mouse or rat Leydig cells, successfully applied for measurement of LH from a variety of mammalian species, were found to be unsuitable for assay of guinea pig LH because of a marked species specificity of guinea pig LH. An alternative bioassay procedure was established with the use of dispersed guinea pig Leydig cells. This assay has been shown to allow for the assessment of serum LH response to exogenous gonadotropin‐releasing hormone and of the expected spontaneous pulsatile pattern of basal LH secretion, with an apparent mean serum LH pulse interval of 31.4 minutes and 51.9 minutes, in long‐term castrated and sham operated male guinea pigs, respectively. This bioassay can be a useful tool for more intensive exploration of guinea pig reproductive physiology.
Oxidative Stress in Normospermic Men Undergoing Infertility Evaluation
Authors: PASQUALOTTO F. F. , SHARMA R. K. , KOBAYASHI H. , NELSON D. R. , JR A. J. THOMAS , AGARWAL A.
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to determine whether normospermic infertile men have high seminal oxidative stress, using 3 measures of oxidative stress: reactive oxygen species (ROS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and a composite ROS‐TAC score. Forty‐three normospermic men without leukocytospermia and 19 healthy donors who came to our infertility clinic were included. Patients were categorized into 3 groups: group I, varicocele and no female factor (n = 16); group II, positive female factor (n = 16); and group III, idiopathic infertility (n = 11). In addition, 52 treated male factor patients and 19 donors were included as reference groups. We measured seminal ROS, TAC, and the ROS‐TAC score in the patient groups and the controls. Normospermic infertile patients as a group had higher ROS levels (mean log [ROS + 1] 1.76 ± 0.13) compared with controls (1.39 ± 0.16; P = .03). Patients in the idiopathic subgroup had significantly higher ROS levels (2.29 ± 0.25; P = .004) than controls. Normospermic infertile patients as a group not only had reduced TAC levels (970.18 ± 73.95 Trolox equivalents), but each subgroup also had significantly lower TAC than controls (1650.93 ± 95.87; P < .003). The ROS‐TAC scores in all normospermic infertile patients as a group (35.7 ± 1.8) as well as in each subgroup was significantly reduced compared with the ROS‐TAC levels in the controls (50.0 ± 2.1; P < .005). We conclude that oxidative stress is associated with male factor infertility. The presence of oxidative stress in infertile normospermic men may explain previously unexplained cases of infertility otherwise attributed to female factors.
Pronunciation Matters
Authors: Wolf Grant S.
Published: November 2023

Lynn E. Henrichsen, Brent A. Green, Atsuko Nishitani, and Carol Lynne Bagley: Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 1999

Student text (Pp. 382); Teacher's Manual (Pp. 102); audiocassettes (4)
Tapestry Series Level 2
Authors: Bikowski Dawn
Published: November 2023

Reading 2: Michael Ryall (Student text, Pp. 203) Writing 2: Laurie Blass and Meredith Pike‐Baky: (Student text, Pp. 235)

Listening & Speaking 2: Mary McVey Gill and Pamela Hartmann (Student text, Pp. 245)

(Also available: Instructor's Manuals and CNN® video clips) Boston, MA: Heinle & Heinle, 2000
Comparison of the outcomes of split thickness skin graft versus full thickness skin graft for closure of the radial forearm free flap donor site: A systematic review
Authors: Mosquera Camilo , Weyh Ashleigh , Malik Michael , Fernandes Rui , Bunnell Anthony , Nedrud Stacey
Published: November 2023

Background

Radial forearm free flap (RFFF) donor site closure is traditionally performed with split thickness skin grafts (STSG), which can be associated with poor aesthetics, wrist stiffness, paresthesia, reduced strength, and tendon exposure. Full thickness skin grafts (FTSG) are potentially beneficial as they provide a more durable coverage, and the skin graft donor site can be closed primarily, which is more aesthetic. The aim of this systematic review is to compare the outcomes of STSG versus FTSG for closure of the RFFF donor site.

Methods

A systematic review was performed, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis guidelines. The primary objective was to answer: do subjects undergoing RFFF harvest, utilizing FTSG to close the RFFF donor site, compared to STSG, achieve superior aesthetics at the RFFF donor site? Included papers compared FTSG and STSG with statistical data. Means were compared with t‐test and proportions with Fisher's exact test.

Results

The initial search resulted in 1851 studies. After applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria, the search resulted in eight studies, with 366 total skin grafts, 197 STSG and 169 FTSG. Six studies evaluated aesthetics utilizing a Likert scale, with the scaled average aesthetic score for FTSG being 7.9/10 compared to 6.9/10 for STSG (p < .001). Tendon exposure was measured in five studies, with a rate of 13.1% for STSG versus 10.6% for FTSG (p = .555). No significant difference in function was observed, however, methods to quantify function were heterogeneous.

Conclusion

FTSG compared to STSG, resulted in statistically significant improved aesthetics, with comparable rates of tendon exposure and function.
On the solutions of natural resource‐based economy
Authors: Irum Saba , Naeem Imran
Published: November 2023

We derive closed‐form solutions of two‐sector renewable natural resource‐based economic growth model using the partial Hamiltonian approach. The partial Hamiltonian approach provides the first integrals of the model under consideration. These first integrals are used to derive two different closed‐form solutions when the elasticity of output is equal to the inverse of the elasticity of intertemporal substitution. We also compute the closed‐form solution for the first integral obtained with a constraint on the parameter. We then analyze the balanced growth path and show that all the closed‐form solutions converge to the same constant growth rate. The closed‐form solution constructed with the aid of the partial Hamiltonian approach is cost‐effective and straightforward to deduce optimal growth path.
Effects of approximations in analyses of beams of open thin‐walled cross‐section—part II: 3‐D non‐linear behaviour
Authors: Pi Y.‐L. , Bradford M. A.
Published: November 2023

In a companion paper, the effects of approximations in the flexural‐torsional stability analysis of beams was studied, and it was shown that a second‐order rotation matrix was sufficiently accurate for a flexural‐torsional stability analysis. However, the second‐order rotation matrix is not necessarily accurate in formulating finite element model for a 3‐D non‐linear analysis of thin‐walled beams of open cross‐section. The approximations in the second‐order rotation matrix may introduce ‘self‐straining’ due to superimposed rigid‐body motions, which may lead to physically incorrect predictions of the 3‐D non‐linear behaviour of beams. In a 3‐D non‐linear elastic–plastic analysis, numerical integration over the cross‐section is usually used to check the yield criterion and to calculate the stress increments, the stress resultants, the elastic–plastic stress–strain matrix and the tangent modulus matrix. A scheme of the arrangement of sampling points over the cross‐section that is not consistent with the strain distributions may lead to incorrect predictions of the 3‐D non‐linear elastic–plastic behaviour of beams.

This paper investigates the effects of approximations on the 3‐D non‐linear analysis of beams. It is found that a finite element model for 3‐D non‐linear analysis based on the second‐order rotation matrix leads to over‐stiff predictions of the flexural‐torsional buckling and postbuckling response and to an overestimate of the maximum load‐carrying capacities of beams in some cases. To perform a correct 3‐D non‐linear analysis of beams, an accurate model of the rotations must be used. A scheme of the arrangement of sampling points over the cross‐section that is consistent with both the longitudinal normal and shear strain distributions is needed to predict the correct 3‐D non‐linear elastic–plastic behaviour of beams. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel three‐dimensional contact finite element based on smooth pressure interpolations
Authors: Jones Reese E. , Papadopoulos Panayiotis
Published: November 2023

This article proposes a new three‐dimensional contact finite element which employs continuous and weakly coupled pressure interpolations on each of the interacting boundaries. The resulting formulation circumvents the geometric bias of one‐pass methods, as well as the surface locking of traditional two‐pass node‐on‐surface methods. A Lagrange multiplier implementation of the proposed element is validated for frictionless quasi‐static contact by a series of numerical simulations. Published in 2001 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Complementarity methods for multibody friction contact problems in finite deformations
Authors: Chabrand Patrick , Chertier Olivier , Dubois Frédéric
Published: November 2023

This paper deals with the frictional contact occurring between deformable elastoplastic bodies subjected to large displacements and finite deformations. Starting from a standard slave/master formulation we have developed a symmetrical formulation with which the unilateral contact conditions and the friction law are satisfied for each body. From the continuum equations, the discretized frictional contact problem is set as a complementarity problem and solved using Lemke's mathematical programming method. The efficiency of the method is illustrated in the case of several examples. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A numerical estimation of the effects of a cylindrical hole and imperfect bonding on stability of a fibre in an elastic matrix
Authors: Lapusta Yuri N. , Wagner Werner
Published: November 2023

A simple numerical model based on three‐dimensional analytical considerations is proposed for an estimation of the local effects of a cylindrical hole in the matrix as well as of fibre–matrix interface imperfections on compressive stability of fibres in fibre‐reinforced composites. The geometry of the model includes an inclusion (a fibre) in a matrix with the assumption of an imperfect bonding at the interface and a cylindrical hole in the closest neighbourhood. Then the problem formulation is idealized in two directions, providing a possibility of establishing lower and upper bounds for critical loads for the case of a matrix with a cylindrical hole of a non‐circular cross‐section as well as for the case of interface imperfections with the possibility of sliding without discontinuity of the displacements normal to the interface. The model takes into account the distinct difference in the properties of the fibre and the matrix and the spatial character of the problem at the microlevel. It is based on individual consideration of the fibre and the matrix with a hole with the necessity of satisfying certain idealized bonding conditions between them. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A 2‐D time‐domain boundary element method with damping
Authors: Jin Feng , Pekau O. A. , Zhang Chuhan H.
Published: November 2023

A new material damping model which is convenient for use in the time‐domain boundary element method (TDBEM) is presented and implemented in a proposed procedure. Since only fundamental solutions for linear elastic material are employed, the procedure has high efficiency and is easy to be integrated into current TDBEM codes. Analytical and numerical results for benchmark problems demonstrate that the accuracy of the proposed method is high. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Eigenderivative analysis of asymmetric non‐conservative systems
Authors: Adhikari Sondipon , Friswell Michael I.
Published: November 2023

In general, the damping matrix of a dynamic system or structure is such that it can not be simultaneously diagonalized with the mass and stiffness matrices by any linear transformation. For this reason the eigenvalues and eigenvectors and consequently their derivatives become complex. Expressions for the first‐ and second‐order derivatives of the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of these linear, non‐conservative systems are given. Traditional restrictions of symmetry and positive definiteness have not been imposed on the mass, damping and stiffness matrices. The results are derived in terms of the eigenvalues and left and right eigenvectors of the second‐order system so that the undesirable use of the first‐order representation of the equations of motion can be avoided. The usefulness of the derived expressions is demonstrated by considering a non‐proportionally damped two degree‐of‐freedom symmetric system, and a damped rigid rotor on flexible supports. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CFD shape optimization using an incomplete‐gradient adjoint formulation
Authors: Soto O. , Löhner R.
Published: November 2023

A design methodology based on the adjoint approach for flow problems governed by the incompressible Euler equations is presented. The main feature of the algorithm is that it avoids solving the adjoint equations, which saves an important amount of CPU time. Furthermore, the methodology is general in the sense it does not depend on the geometry representation. All the grid points on the surface to be optimized can be chosen as design parameters. In addition, the methodology can be applied to any type of mesh. The partial derivatives of the flow equations with respect to the design parameters are computed by finite differences. In this way, this computation is independent of the numerical scheme employed to obtain the flow solution. Once the design parameters have been updated, the new solid surface is obtained with a pseudo‐shell approach in such a way that local singularities, which can degrade or inhibit the convergence to the optimal solution, are avoided. Some 2D and 3D numerical examples are shown to demonstrate the proposed methodology. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A geometrical‐based contact algorithm using a barrier method
Authors: Kloosterman G. , van Damme R. M. J. , van den Boogaard A. H. , Huétink J.
Published: November 2023

Most methods employed in the numerical solution of contact problems in finite element simulations rely on equality‐based optimization methods. Typically, a gap function which is non‐differentiable at the point of contact is used in these kind of approaches. The gap function can be seen as the Macaulay bracket of some distance function, where the latter is differentiable at the point of contact. In this article, we propose to use the distance function directly instead of using the gap function. This will give rise to a formulation involving inequality constraints. This approach eliminates the artificially introduced non‐differentiability. To this end we propose a barrier algorithm as the method of choice to solve the problem. The method originates in optimization literature, where convergence proofs for the method are available. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
EZH2 is a key component of hepatoblastoma tumor cell growth
Authors: Glaser Kathryn , Schepers Emily J. , Zwolshen Harrison M. , Lake Charissa M. , Timchenko Nikolai A. , Karns Rebekah A. , Cairo Stefano , Geller James I. , Tiao Gregory M. , Bondoc Alexander J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) catalyzes the trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 via the polycomb recessive complex 2 (PRC2) and plays a time‐specific role in normal fetal liver development. EZH2 is overexpressed in hepatoblastoma (HB), an embryonal tumor. EZH2 can also promote tumorigenesis via a noncanonical, PRC2‐independent mechanism via proto‐oncogenic, direct protein interaction, including β‐catenin. We hypothesize that the pathological activation of EZH2 contributes to HB propagation in a PRC2‐independent manner.

Methods and results

We demonstrate that EZH2 promotes proliferation in HB tumor‐derived cell lines through interaction with β‐catenin. Although aberrant EZH2 expression occurs, we determine that both canonical and noncanonical EZH2 signaling occurs based on specific gene‐expression patterns and interaction with SUZ12, a PRC2 component, and β‐catenin. Silencing and inhibition of EZH2 reduce primary HB cell proliferation.

Conclusions

EZH2 overexpression promotes HB cell proliferation, with both canonical and noncanonical function detected. However, because EZH2 directly interacts with β‐catenin in human tumors and EZH2 overexpression is not equal to SUZ12, it seems that a noncanonical mechanism is contributing to HB pathogenesis. Further mechanistic studies are necessary to elucidate potential pathogenic downstream mechanisms and translational potential of EZH2 inhibitors for the treatment of HB.
Engineering the magnetic properties of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene‐based composites with magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Merazzo Karla J. , García Díez Ander , Tubio Carmen R. , Manchado Juan Carlos , Malet Murillo Ramón , Pérez Marc , Costa Pedro , Lanceros‐Mendez Senentxu
Published: November 2023

This work reports the engineering of the magnetic properties of composites based on acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) by the inclusion of different magnetic nanoparticles (MNP). ABS‐based composites with different MNP, including permalloy, Fe3O4, CoFe2O4, Ni, and Co‐carbon coated, with a 10 wt% content have been prepared and their morphological, electric, thermal, magnetic, and mechanical properties evaluated. Films were processed by solvent casting under two different processing conditions, no magnetic field applied during solvent evaporations, and an out‐of‐plane magnetic field application. It is shown that ABS‐based composites preserve the magnetic properties of the filler, providing a simple way to tune the magnetic behavior in the polymer. The inclusion of permalloy, Fe3O4, CoFe2O4, Ni, and Co‐carbon coated fillers, allow to obtain saturation magnetizations of 6.2, 4.1, 7.3, 3.7, 4.4, and 4.9 emu/g, respectively, and coercive fields of 88.5, 30.9, 128, 2529.8, 123.6, and 197.4 Oe, respectively. It was found that the mechanical properties of the composites depend on filler type and dimensions, maintaining the thermoplastic behavior of the matrix when the fillers are small (up to 40 nm) and losing it when the fillers are bigger (from 60 to 135 nm). Further, the breaking stress, elongation at break, and the Young's modulus are material dependent, showing higher values when the fillers are Fe3O4 and CoFe2O4 and lower values when the fillers are permalloy, Ni, and Co‐carbon; for example, these values are the highest in the case of the ABS‐Fe3O4 composite with values of 28.7 MPa, 4.1%, and 1266.9 MPa, respectively, while ABS‐Co composite shows the lowest breaking stress and elongation at break with 9.2 MPa and 1.5%, respectively. The ABS‐permalloy composite presents the lowest Young's modulus with 781.5 MPa. Also, the magnetic fillers do not change significantly the thermal, dielectric, and the electrical properties of the composites at this concentration (10 wt%). Overall, the present work demonstrates the feasibility of the modulation of the mechanical and the tuning of the magnetic properties of ABS‐based magnetic nanocomposites by changing the magnetic material and by applying a magnetic field during the processing of the composites, allowing their application in areas including sensors, actuators, and magnetic devices.

Highlights

Magnetic nanoparticles can engineer the magnetic properties in a composite.

Nanoparticles (NP) can engineer mechanical properties depending on their material.

NP can engineer mechanical properties depending on their dimensions.

With this process, the thermal, electric, and dielectric properties are preserved.

Applied magnetic fields during solvent evaporations affects the Young's modulus.
Properties of the Interface Between the Atomic Layer Grown Zinc–Tin–Oxide and Cu2ZnGeS4 Relevant for Kesterite Thin‐Film Solar Cells
Authors: Martin Natalia M. , Saini Nishant , Babucci Melike , Törndahl Tobias , Platzer-Björkman Charlotte
Published: November 2023

Recently, a record open‐circuit voltage (1.1 V) is obtained for wide‐bandgap Cu2ZnGeS4 (CZGS) thin‐film solar cells with a Zn1−xSnxOy (ZTO) buffer grown by atomic layer deposition (ALD) (N. Saini et al. Sol. RRL 2021, 2100837). However, a low short‐circuit current and a small variation in device performance with ZTO properties are observed, suggesting similar interface properties. Since the CZGS absorber cannot be etched due to peeling, it is suggested that the presence of an oxide interlayer can influence the device performance. Here, the chemical and electronic properties of the near‐surface region of CZGS absorber and its interface with ZTO buffers with varying properties (bandgap and thickness) are studied nondestructively by employing excitation‐dependent X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The formation of Ge oxide species is indicated at the absorber surface during device fabrication, which is preserved during ALD. Further, it is shown that the ZTO/CZGS interface properties are similar and not influenced by variations in ZTO properties, which can explain the small variation in device performance. Thus, attention shall be given to possible absorber surface cleaning treatment typically applied before the buffer deposition for Ge‐containing CZGS, and an optimization of the ALD ZTO buffer layer growth shall be considered for a non‐etched absorber.
Exploring the Antimicrobial Potential of Pyrimidine Linked Hydrazinyl Azole Derivatives: Insights from Biological Assays and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Kumar Momidi Bharath , Hariprasad Vanam , Joshi Shrinivas D , Naik Praveen , Jayaprakash Gururaj Kudur , Pani A. Saranga , Babu Dickson D.
Published: November 2023

We present a study on a new class of Schiff bases with pyrimidine linked hydrazinyl azole backbone. These compounds were synthesized using conventional and ultrasonication methods. Our design strategy incorporated three heteroaromatic azoles and various substituents on the pyrimidine scaffold to enhance antimicrobial properties. Antibacterial and antifungal screenings were conducted against specific pathogens, and molecular docking studies supported the results. The compounds exhibited significant antimicrobial activities, particularly against K. pneumoniae, surpassing the standard drug. These Schiff bases hold promise as potential antimicrobial agents.
Oxygen reduction performance study of Fe/Ni doped PAAM/Agar double net hydrogel carbon materials
Authors: Liu Jiaming , Maimaitiyiming Xieraili , Kuerban Zaituniguli
Published: November 2023

The electrocatalytic performance plays a pivotal role in the widespread adoption of DMFCs. Hence, it is imperative to develop electrocatalysts with superior performance for oxygen reduction reactions. In this study, carbon materials doped with Fe and Ni were synthesized. The characterization results revealed that the morphology, pore size, pore capacity, and BET of the catalysts varied with different doping elements, thereby affecting their performance. Linear Scan Voltammetry demonstrated that the doped samples (Ni−NC, Fe−NC, Fe−Ni−NC) exhibited varying degrees of enhancement in ORR activity compared to the undoped NC samples containing only Fe and Ni. Among them, the Fe−Ni−NC catalyst showed remarkable methanol tolerance (67.3 %) and a lower Tafel slope (93.24 mV dec−1) in comparison to the Pt/C catalyst (47.9 %). Moreover, RRDE measurements indicated a 3.31 % H2O2 yield and n of 3.93 for Fe−Ni−NC. Additionally, in DMFC tests conducted at 20 and 50 °C, Fe−Ni−NC approached the performance of the Pt/C catalyst cathode.
Silver molybdate (Ag‐PMo12) nanocomposite: An efficient catalyst for the one‐pot synthesis of 3,3‐diindolyl derivatives in aqueous medium
Authors: Gaware Sujeet , Kamble Omkar , Chatterjee Rana , Kotkondawar Abhay Vijay , Dandela Rambabu
Published: November 2023

An efficient methodology has been developed for the synthesis of 3,3‐di(indolyl)oxindoles and bis(indolyl)methanes under mild conditions. The efficient condensation reaction of indoles with isatin and aldehyde led to the corresponding derivatives in the presence of silver molybdate (Ag‐PMo12) nanocomposite and aqueous medium. In addition, the silver‐doped catalytic system enables the one‐pot formation of diindolyl derivatives with excellent yields, short reaction times and under environmental benign conditions.
A Multienzyme Cascade Pathway Immobilized in a Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Framework for the Conversion of CO2
Authors: Pei Rui , Liu Jing , Jing Chuanyong , Zhang Min
Published: November 2023

The reduction of carbon dioxide to valuable chemicals through enzymatic processes is regarded as a promising approach for the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions. In this study, an in vitro multi‐enzyme cascade pathway is constructed for the conversion of CO2 into dihydroxyacetone (DHA). This pathway, known as FFFP, comprises formate dehydrogenase (FDH), formaldehyde dehydrogenase (FaldDH), formolase (FLS), and phosphite dehydrogenase (PTDH), with PTDH serving as the critical catalyst for regenerating the coenzyme NADH. Subsequently, the immobilization of the FFFP pathway within the hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (HOF‐101) is accomplished in situ. A 1.8‐fold increase in DHA yield is observed in FFFP@HOF‐101 compared to the free FFFP pathway. This enhancement can be explained by the fact that within FFFP@HOF‐101, enzymes are positioned sufficiently close to one another, leading to the elevation of the local concentration of intermediates and an improvement in mass transfer efficiency. Moreover, FFFP@HOF‐101 displays a high degree of stability. In addition to the establishment of an effective DHA production method, innovative concepts for the tailored synthesis of fine compounds from CO2 through the utilization of various multi‐enzyme cascade developments are generated by this work.
Drug‐Loaded Nanogel for Efficient Orchestration of Cell Death Pathways by Intramitochondrial Disulfide Polymerization
Authors: Choi Eun Seong , Kim Sangpil , Kim Dohyun , Choi Eunshil , Ryu Ja‐Hyoung
Published: November 2023

Chemotherapy using a nanoscaled drug delivery system is an effective cancer therapy, but its high drug concentration often causes drug resistance in cancer cells and normal cell damage. Combination therapy involving two or more different cell signaling pathways can be a powerful tool to overcome the limitations of chemotherapy. Herein, this article presents nanogel (NG)‐mediated co‐delivery of a chemodrug camptothecin (CPT) and mitochondria‐targeting monomer (MT monomer) for efficient activation of two modes of the programmed cell death pathway (apoptosis and necroptosis) and synergistic enhancement of cancer therapy. CPT and the monomer are incorporated together into the redox‐degradable polymeric NGs for release in response to the intracellular glutathione. The MT monomer is shown to undergo reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐triggered disulfide polymerization inside the cancerous mitochondria in cooperation with the chemotherapeutic CPT elevating the intracellular ROS level. The CPT/monomer interconnection in cell death mechanisms for mitochondrial dysfunction and enhanced cell death is evidenced by a series of cell analyses showing ROS generation, mitochondria damage, impacts on (non)cancerous or drug‐resistant cells, and cell death modes. The presented work provides beneficial insights for utilizing combination therapy to facilitate a desired cell death mechanism and developing a novel nanosystem for more efficacious cancer treatment.
Disclosures 8: Parents who initiate request for disclosure, part 2
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: November 2023

Last month we began discussing requests for disclosures of education records that were initiated by parents. This month we’re going to look at a parental “demand” (not a “request” if we are going to be accurate) to send all of a student's education information to the parent. Of course, this carries the implication that the parent has an equal right to access the student's education records as the student does.
Best practices can help manage complex legal issues involving fraternities, sororities
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: November 2023

CLEARWATER, FLORIDA — Hazing, defamation claims, due process, Title IX, and new state laws make for a complicated legal relationship between higher education institutions and fraternities and sororities. That's according to Micah E. Kamrass, Esq., Partner at Manley Burke, LPA, and Adjunct Professor of Law at the University of Louisville and Vanderbilt University, who discussed best practices for managing this challenging area during his presentation at Stetson University's National Conference on Law and Higher Education.
Two-loop radiative corrections to e+e− → γγ∗ cross section
Authors: Fadin V. S. , Lee R. N.
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The increasing accuracy of current and planned experiments to measure the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon requires more precision and reliability of its theoretical calculation. For this purpose, we calculate the differential cross section for the process of annihilation of an electron-positron pair into two photons, one of which is virtual, accompanied by the emission of soft photons, taking into account radiative corrections of the order α2. The results obtained can be used to improve the accuracy of calculating the contribution of the hadron vacuum polarization to the muon anomalous moment. It is shown that all logarithmically amplified two-loop corrections can be easily found using modern theorems of soft and collinear factorizations and available one-loop results.
Methods for determining cycles of a specific length in undirected graphs with edge weights
Authors: Lewis R. , Corcoran P. , Gagarin A.
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we consider the $${{\mathcal{N}\mathcal{P}}}$$

N
P

-hard problem of determining fixed-length cycles in undirected edge-weighted graphs. Two solution methods are proposed, one based on integer programming (IP) and one that uses bespoke local search operators. These methods are executed under a common algorithmic framework that seeks to partition problem instances into a series of smaller sub-problems. Large-scale empirical tests indicate that the local search algorithm is generally preferable to IP, even with short run times. However, it can still produce suboptimal solutions, even with relatively small graphs.
The Third Sword
Authors: Murphy James Bernard
Published: November 2023

Prophets are wild cards in the game of politics, James Bernard Murphy writes in this startling new book. They risk their lives by calling out the abuses of political and religious leaders, forcing us to confront evils we would prefer to ignore. By setting moral limits on political leaders, prophets chasten our political pretensions and remind us there are values that transcend politics. They wield a third sword—distinct from the familiar swords of state and church power—their sword is the word of God. The Third Sword offers a new take on political history, illustrating a theory of prophetic politics through tales of political crises, interspersed with direct dialogue between the prophets and their persecutors. With chapters on Socrates, Jesus, Joan of Arc, Thomas More, and Martin Luther King, Murphy brings these prophets to life with storytelling that blends biography, history, and political theory.
A Concise History of Jamaica
Authors: Morgan Kenneth
Published: November 2023

Kenneth Morgan's history of Jamaica is a social, economic, political, and cultural assessment of the island's most important periods and themes over the past millennium. This includes the island's development before 1500, with detailed material on the Taino society; the two centuries of slavery and its aftermath between 1660 and 1860; the continuance of colonialism between 1860 and 1945; the background to Jamaican independence between 1945 and 1960; and the evolution of Jamaica as an independent nation since the early 1960s. Throughout, Morgan discusses important themes such as race, slavery, empire, poverty, and colonialism, and the unbalanced social structure that existed for much of Jamaica's history – the small, overwhelmingly white elite overseeing and controlling the lives of black and brown people beneath them on the social scale. Ending with an assessment of the contemporary period, this work offers an authoritative, up-to-date history of Jamaica.