bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene regulatory networks and developmental plasticity in the early sea urchin embryo: alternative deployment of the skeletogenic gene regulatory network
Authors: Ettensohn Charles A. , Kitazawa Chisato , Cheers Melani S. , Leonard Jennifer D. , Sharma Tara
Published: August 2007

Cell fates in the sea urchin embryo are remarkably labile, despite the fact that maternal polarity and zygotic programs of differential gene expression pattern the embryo from the earliest stages. Recent work has focused on transcriptional gene regulatory networks (GRNs) deployed in specific embryonic territories during early development. The micromere-primary mesenchyme cell(PMC) GRN drives the development of the embryonic skeleton. Although normally deployed only by presumptive PMCs, every lineage of the early embryo has the potential to activate this pathway. Here, we focus on one striking example of regulative activation of the skeletogenic GRN; the transfating of non-skeletogenic mesoderm (NSM) cells to a PMC fate during gastrulation. We show that transfating is accompanied by the de novo expression of terminal,biomineralization-related genes in the PMC GRN, as well as genes encoding two upstream transcription factors, Lvalx1 and Lvtbr. We report that Lvalx1, a key component of the skeletogenic GRN in the PMC lineage, plays an essential role in the regulative pathway both in NSM cells and in animal blastomeres. MAPK signaling is required for the expression of Lvalx1 and downstream skeletogenic genes in NSM cells, mirroring its role in the PMC lineage. We also demonstrate that Lvalx1 regulates the signal from PMCs that normally suppresses NSM transfating. Significantly,misexpression of Lvalx1 in macromeres (the progenitors of NSM cells)is sufficient to activate the skeletogenic GRN. We suggest that NSM cells normally deploy a basal mesodermal pathway and require only an Lvalx1-mediated sub-program to express a PMC fate. Finally, we provide evidence that, in contrast to the normal pathway, activation of the skeletogenic GRN in NSM cells is independent of Lvpmar1. Our studies reveal that, although most features of the micromere-PMC GRN are recapitulated in transfating NSM cells, different inputs activate this GRN during normal and regulative development.
What impact have NICE guidelines had on the trends of hip arthroplasty since their publication?
Authors: Roberts V. I. , Esler C. N. , Harper W. M.
Published: August 2007

The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) published the guidelines on the selection of prostheses for primary hip replacement in 2000. They supported the use of cemented hip prostheses to the exclusion of uncemented and hybrid implants. The information from the Trent (and Wales) Regional Arthroplasty Study has been examined to identify retrospectively the types of hip prostheses used between 1990 and 2005, and to assess the impact that the guidelines have had on orthopaedic practice.

The results show that the publication of the NICE guidelines has had little impact on clinical practice, with the use of uncemented prostheses increasing from 6.7% (137) in 2001 to 19.2% (632) in 2005. The use of hybrid prostheses has more than doubled from 8.8% (181) to 22% (722) of all hips implanted in the same period. The recommendations made by NICE are not being followed, which calls into question their value.
Simultaneous mobile- and fixed-bearing total knee replacement in the same patients
Authors: Kim Y.-H. , Kim D.-Y. , Kim J.-S.
Published: August 2007

We conducted a randomised prospective study to evaluate the clinical and radiological results of a mobile- and fixed-bearing total knee replacement of similar design in 174 patients who had bilateral simultaneous knee replacement. The mean follow-up was for 5.6 years (5.2 to 6.1).

The total knee score, pain score, functional score and range of movement were not statistically different (p > 0.05) between the two groups. Osteolysis was not seen in any knee in either group. Two knees (1%) in the mobile-bearing group required revision because of infection; none in the fixed-bearing group needed revision. Excellent results can be achieved with both mobile- and fixed-bearing prostheses of similar design at mid-term follow-up. We could demonstrate no significant clinical advantage for a mobile bearing.
Compartment syndrome following ankle sprain
Authors: Ward N. J. , Wilde G. P. , Jackson W. F. M. , Walker N.
Published: August 2007

Injury to the perforating branch of the peroneal artery has not been reported previously as a cause of acute compartment syndrome following soft-tissue injury to the ankle. We describe the case of a 23-year-old male who sustained such an injury resulting in an acute compartment syndrome. In a review of the literature, we could find only five previous cases, all of which gave rise to a false aneurysm which was detected after the acute event.
In situ arthrodesis with lateral-wall ostectomy for the sequelae of fracture of the os calcis
Authors: Savva N. , Saxby T. S.
Published: August 2007

Distraction bone-block arthrodesis has been advocated for the treatment of the late sequelae of fracture of the os calcis. Between 1997 and 2003 we studied a consecutive series of 17 patients who had in situ arthrodesis for subtalar arthritis after fracture of the os calcis with marked loss of talocalcaneal height. None had undergone any previous attempts at reconstruction. We assessed the range of dorsiflexion and plantar flexion and measured the talocalcaneal height, talocalcaneal angle and talar declination angle on standing lateral radiographs, comparing them with the normal foot. The mean follow-up was for 78.7 months (48 to 94).

The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score improved from 29.8 (13 to 48) to 77.8 (48 to 94) (Student’s t-test, p < 0.001). The mean loss of talocalcaneal height was 10.3 mm (2 to 17) and the mean talar declination angle was 6.7° (0° to 16°) which was 36% of the normal side. One patient suffered anterior ankle pain but none had anterior impingement. Two patients complained of difficulty in ascending slopes and stairs and four in descending. The mean ankle dorsiflexion on the arthrodesed side was 11.6° (0° to 24°) compared with 14.7° (0° to 24°) on the normal side, representing a reduction of 21.1%. The mean plantar flexion on the arthrodesed side was 35.5° (24° to 60°) compared with 44.6° (30° to 60°) on the normal side, a reduction of 20.4%.

These results suggest that anterior impingement need not to be a significant problem after subtalar arthrodesis for fracture of the os calcis, even when the loss of talocalcaneal height is marked. We recommend in situ arthrodesis combined with lateral-wall ostectomy for all cases of subtalar arthritis following a fracture of the os calcis, without marked coronal deformity, regardless of the degree of talocalcaneal height loss.
Thermometric diagnosis of peripheral nerve injuries
Authors: Ya’ish F.M.M. , Cooper J. P. , Craigen M. A. C.
Published: August 2007

The diagnosis of nerve injury using thermotropic liquid crystal temperature strips was compared blindly and prospectively against operative findings in 36 patients requiring surgical exploration for unilateral upper limb lacerations with suspected nerve injury. Thermotropic liquid crystal strips were applied to affected and non-affected segments in both hands in all subjects. A pilot study showed that a simple unilateral laceration without nerve injury results in a cutaneous temperature difference between limbs, but not within each limb. Thus, for detection of a nerve injury, comparison was made against the unaffected nerve distribution in the same hand.

Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that an absolute temperature difference ≥ 1.0°C was diagnostic of a nerve injury (area under the curve = 0.985, sensitivity = 100%, specificity = 93.8%).

Thermotropic liquid crystal strip assessment is a new, reliable and objective method for the diagnosis of traumatic peripheral nerve injuries. If implemented in the acute setting, it could improve the reliability of clinical assessment and reduce the number of negative surgical explorations.
Chondrocyte apoptosis in the regenerated articular cartilage after allogenic chondrocyte transplantation in the rabbit knee
Authors: Lee J. H. , Prakash K. V. B. , Pengatteeri Y. H. , Park S. E. , Koh H. S. , Han C. W.
Published: August 2007

We attempted to repair full-thickness defects in the articular cartilage of the trochlear groove of the femur in 30 rabbit knee joints using allogenic cultured chondrocytes embedded in a collagen gel. The repaired tissues were examined at 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 weeks after operation using histological and histochemical methods. The articular defect filling index measurement was derived from safranin-O stained sections. Apoptotic cellular fractions were derived from analysis of apoptosis in situ using TUNEL staining, and was confirmed using caspase-3 staining along with quantification of the total cellularity. The mean articular defect filling index decreased with time. After 24 weeks it was 0.7 (sd 0.10), which was significantly lower than the measurements obtained earlier (p < 0.01). The highest mean percentage of apoptotic cells were observed at 12 weeks, although the total cellularity decreased with time. Because apoptotic cell death may play a role in delamination after chondrocyte transplantation, anti-apoptotic gene therapy may protect transplanted chondrocytes from apoptosis.
Precision tumour resection and reconstruction using image-guided computer navigation
Authors: Wong K. C. , Kumta S. M. , Chiu K. H. , Antonio G. E. , Unwin P. , Leung K. S.
Published: August 2007

The use of a navigation system in musculoskeletal tumour surgery enables the integration of pre-operative CT and MRI images to generate a precise three-dimensional anatomical model of the site and the extent of the tumour.

We carried out six consecutive resections of musculoskeletal tumour in five patients using an existing commercial computer navigation system. There were three women and two men with a mean age of 41 years (24 to 47). Reconstruction was performed using a tumour prosthesis in three lesions and a vascularised fibular graft in one. No reconstruction was needed in two cases. The mean follow-up was 6.9 months (3.5 to 10). The mean duration of surgery was 28 minutes (13 to 50). Examination of the resected specimens showed clear margins in all the tumour lesions and a resection that was exactly as planned.
Electrical characterization of magnetoelectrical materials
Authors: Scott J.F.
Published: August 2007

A brief review is given of electrical properties of magnetoelectric, multiferroic materials, with emphasis on magnetocapacitance effects, nanostructures, integration into real random access memories, and critical phenomena, including defect dynamics near phase transitions.
Strain-induced effects in phase transitions in thin films of multiferroic BiFeO3 probed by optical second-harmonic generation
Authors: Kartavtseva M.S. , Gorbenko O. Yu. , Kaul A.R. , Murzina T.V. , Savinov S.A. , Aktsipetrov O.A.
Published: August 2007

Optical second-harmonic generation (SHG) was applied to study the ferroelectric and magnetic properties of strained epitaxial BiFeO3 films deposited on (001) SrTiO3 substrates by metal organic chemical vapor deposition. A strong interplay between the ferroelectric and magnetic subsystems of bismuth ferrite films results in the pronounced temperature dependence of the SHG intensity. The decrease of the critical temperature of the ferroelectric phase transition and the expansion of the nonlinear transient area near Néel temperature were observed for the strained BiFeO3 films.
Formation of multiferroic thin-film heterostructure (BiAl:YIG/La:PMNT) via a wet chemical process
Authors: Guo Xiaomei , Zou Yingyin K. , Li Kewen K. , Chen Qiushui , Jiang Hua
Published: August 2007

A novel multiferroic thin-film heterostructure exhibiting both ferromagnetic (FM) and ferroelectric (FE) properties, as well as magneto-optic (MO) and electro-optic (EO) properties, was fabricated via a wet chemical route. Oxide buffer layers were used to allow the growth of ferroelectric lanthanum modified lead magnesium niobate titanate (La:PMNT) layer on top of ferromagnetic bismuth and aluminum substituted yttrium iron garnet (BiAl:YIG). X-ray diffractometer (XRD) analysis confirmed the formation of both crystalline structures. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used to examine the surface and cross-section morphologies of the resulted heterostructure. Multiferroic properties of the film were investigated.
Formation of hexagonal phase of TbMnO3 thin film and its multiferroic properties
Authors: Lee Jung-Hyuk , Lee Daesu , Noh Tae Won , Murugavel Pattukkannu , Kim Jae Wook , Kim Kee Hoon , Jo Younghun , Jung Myung-Hwa , Yoon Jong-Gul , Chung Jin-Seok
Published: August 2007

TbMnO3 exists in an orthorhombic phase in nature. Recently, we successfully grew TbMnO3 thin films in the hexagonal phase using epitaxial stabilization techniques. In this article, we will show the details of the deposition conditions that allow us to fabricate the hexagonal TbMnO3 films on Pt–Al2O3(0001) substrates. The artificial hexagonal phase can be easily formed above 850 °C, irrespective of the oxygen partial pressure. The hexagonal TbMnO3 films showed ferroelectric properties, which are significantly enhanced compared to those of the orthorhombic TbMnO3 bulk phase. We find interesting anomalies in the magnetic and magnetodielectric properties of the TbMnO3 films at around 45 K, which should be related with the Mn3+ spin reorientation. We also find spin-glass-like behaviors in the magnetic susceptibility, which could be attributed to the geometric frustration of antiferromagnetically coupled Mn spins with an edge-sharing triangular lattice. This work shows details of the growth and properties of hexagonal TbMnO3 films.
A room-temperature electrical field–controlled magnetic memory cell
Authors: Cavaco C. , van Kampen M. , Lagae L. , Borghs G.
Published: August 2007

We present a method that allows changing the anisotropy and the magnetic characteristics of piezoelectric–ferromagnetic hybrid structures by electric fields, thereby suppressing the need for external or local magnetic fields. We have investigated the magnetic properties of single Co50Fe50 and CoFe80B20 magnetostrictive thin films as well as of high-quality bottom-pinned spin valves (SV) sputtered on piezoelectric substrates [lead zirconate titanate (PZT)] and patterned in an interdigitated transducer (IDT). Induction of a uniaxial anisotropy axis and the changes on coercivity and switching fields as a function of the applied bias voltage on the IDT are analyzed and interpreted. The down-scalability of this hybrid method supports the possibility of achieving low-power/low-voltage control of the switching fields and shows the feasibility of a hybrid ferroelectric magnetic memory cell.
The electronic structure and the photoluminescence property of the photocatalyst BaZn1/3Nb2/3O3
Authors: Xu B. , Zhang W.F. , Liu X.Y. , Yin J. , Liu Z.G.
Published: August 2007

The photocatalyst BaZn1/3Nb2/3O3 with ABO3 perovskite structure has been synthesized by using a solid-state reaction process. It was characterized by x-ray diffraction and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The luminescence band centers around 285 nm and shows a large Stokes shift compared with the excitation spectrum, indicating a strong electron–phonon interaction in the photocatalyst BaZn1/3Nb2/3O3. The electronic structure of BaZn1/3Nb2/3O3 was calculated by using the pseudopotential method of the density function theory. It shows that the conduction band should be mainly composed of the Nb 4d states, and the valence band should be mainly composed of the O 2p state. The densities of the O 2p states and the Zn 4s states at the bottom of the conduction band are very low. The Zn 4s states show an expanded structure, which was proposed to be helpful for the migration of the photoexcited carriers, thus favoring the photocatalytic activity of BaZn1/3Nb2/3O3.
Electrical resistivity of Tin+1ACn (A = Si, Ge, Sn, n = 1–3) thin films
Authors: Emmerlich Jens , Eklund Per , Rittrich Dirk , Högberg Hans , Hultman Lars
Published: August 2007

We have investigated the electrical resistivity of (0001)-oriented Tin+1ACn (A = Si, Ge, Sn, n = 1–3) thin films deposited by magnetron sputtering onto Al2O3(0001) substrates at temperatures ranging from 500 to 950 °C. Four-point-probe measurements show that all films are good conductors with resistivity values of ∼21–51 μΩ cm for Ti–Si–C films, ∼15–50 μΩ cm for Ti–Ge–C films, and ∼46 μΩ cm for Ti2SnC. We find a general trend of decreasing resistivity with decreasing n for the Ti–Si–C and Ti–Ge–C systems due to the increased metallicity obtained with increasing density of A-element layers. We also show that crystalline quality and competitive growth of impurity phases affect the measured resistivity values. The effect of a given impurity phase largely depends on its location in the sample. Specifically, a TiCx layer in the center of the film constricts the current flow and results in an increased measured resistivity value. However, TiCx transition or seed layers at the substrate–film interface as well as surface segregation of Ge and Ti5Ge3Cx (for Ti–Ge–C) have only little effect on the measured resistivity values. For the Ti–Sn–C system, the resistivity is mainly influenced by the segregation of metallic Sn, yielding a wide spread in the measured values ranging from 20–46 μΩ cm, in the order of increased film purity.
Dielectric properties characterization of La- and Dy-doped BiFeO3 thin films
Authors: Petrov Peter Kr. , Palkar Vaijayanti R. , Tagantsev Alexander K , Chien Hsin-I , Prashanthi K. , Axelsson Anna-Karin , Bhattacharya S. , Alford Neil McN
Published: August 2007

The dielectric response of La- and Dy- doped BiFeO3 thin films at microwave frequencies (up to 12 GHz) has been monitored as a function of frequency, direct current (dc) electric field, and magnetic field in a temperature range from 25 to 300 °C. Both the real and imaginary parts of the response have been found to be non-monotonic (oscillating) functions of measuring frequency. These oscillations are not particularly sensitive to a dc electric field; however, they are substantially dampened by a magnetic field. The same effect has been observed when the volume of the characterized sample is increased. This phenomenon is attributed to the presence of a limited number of structural features with a resonance type response. The exact origin of these features is unknown at present. Leakage current investigations were performed on the whole set of films. The films were highly resistive with low leakage current, thereby giving us confidence in the microwave measurements. These typically revealed ‘N’-type I-V characteristics.
Microstructural response of TiN monolithic and multilayer coatings during microscratch testing
Authors: Xie Z.H. , Hoffman M. , Munroe P. , Singh R. , Bendavid A. , Martin P.J.
Published: August 2007

Monolithic TiN and multilayered structures of TiN films that alternate with thin Ti interlayers were coated by filtered arc deposition onto a stainless steel substrate. Microscratch tests with a diamond indenter of 5-μm radius were carried out in combination with focused ion beam (FIB) sectioning and scanning and transmission electron microscopy to explore the controlling deformation mechanisms of these TiN coatings in relation to their microstructural design. It was found that for the monolithic TiN coating, columnar TiN grains slid against each other under normal forces and, at the same time, tilted under tangential forces. For the TiN multilayers, however, intercolumnar shear sliding was suppressed considerably by the multilayered structure and the interlayers, and grain tilting occurred largely within the upper TiN layer, presumably due to the shear effect of the soft Ti interlayers. With further increases in tangential force, rupture of TiN grains was observed within both types of coatings; for the TiN multilayers, rupture of TiN grains occurred predominantly within the layers close to the steel substrates. It can be concluded that the application of TiN multilayers provides better resistance to contact damage than the traditional monolithic TiN coatings did.
Synthesis and properties of p-type nitrogen-doped ZnO thin films by pulsed laser ablation of a Zn-rich Zn3N2 target
Authors: Allenic A. , Guo W. , Chen Y.B. , Zhao G.Y. , Pan X.Q. , Che Y. , Hu Z.D. , Liu B.
Published: August 2007

Epitaxial ZnO thin films doped uniformly with nitrogen at 1020 atoms/cm3 were fabricated by pulsed laser ablation of a Zn-rich Zn3N2 target. The films grown at 300 °C and annealed at 600 °C in O2 showed p-type conductivity. Two acceptor levels at 105 and 224 meV were determined by temperature-dependent Hall and photoluminescence measurements of the p-type samples. Transmission electron microscopy studies revealed that the p-type ZnO films consist of 10–20 nm columnar grains with a high density of defects and grain boundaries that may facilitate the annihilation of native donors and the activation of acceptors during postdeposition annealing.
Central Nervous System Metastases in HER-2–Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients Treated with Trastuzumab: Incidence, Survival, and Risk Factors
Authors: Gori Stefania , Rimondini Simonetta , De Angelis Verena , Colozza Mariantonietta , Bisagni Giancarlo , Moretti Gabriella , Sidoni Angelo , Basurto Carlo , Aristei Cynthia , Anastasi Paola , Crinò Lucio
Published: August 2007

Background.

A higher incidence of central nervous system (CNS) metastases in HER-2–positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC) has recently been reported.

Materials and Methods.

Aims of this observational study were to evaluate the incidence of CNS metastases in HER-2–positive MBC patients, to define the outcome of patients with CNS metastases, and to identify the risk factors for CNS relapse.

Results.

Between April 1999 and June 2005 we treated 122 consecutive HER-2–positive MBC patients with chemotherapy and trastuzumab. At a median follow-up of 28 months from the occurrence of metastatic disease, 43 patients (35.2%) developed CNS metastases. The median time to death from the diagnosis of CNS metastases was 23.46 months. At multivariate analysis we found that only premenopausal status at diagnosis of breast cancer and visceral metastases as the dominant site at relapse were significantly associated with a higher risk for CNS metastases.

Conclusion.

The CNS metastasis incidence is very high in HER-2–positive MBC, but the survival after CNS relapse in these patients is longer than in patients unselected for HER-2 status, because of the better control of extracranial disease obtained by trastuzumab. The identified risk factors for CNS relapse could allow us to select a subgroup of HER-2–positive MBC patients as candidates for active surveillance for CNS progression (by computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging) and/or as candidates for accrual in trials of prevention of CNS relapse.
Tremelimumab (CP-675,206), a Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte–Associated Antigen 4 Blocking Monoclonal Antibody in Clinical Development for Patients with Cancer
Authors: Ribas Antoni , Hanson Douglas C. , Noe Dennis A. , Millham Robert , Guyot Deborah J. , Bernstein Steven H. , Canniff Paul C. , Sharma Amarnath , Gomez-Navarro Jesus
Published: August 2007

Learning Objectives

After completing the course, the reader will be able to: Educate community oncologists about the promise of anti-CTLA-4 monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of advanced cancer.Suggest that CTLA-4 blockade overcomes barriers to effective immunotherapy for cancer.Describe the rational design and clinical development strategy taken with the CTLA-4 antagonist tremelimumab.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ at CME.TheOncologist.com
Multidisciplinary Management of Brain Metastases
Authors: Eichler April F. , Loeffler Jay S.
Published: August 2007

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Identify the clinical factors that predict survival after a diagnosis of brain metastasis.Select appropriate multidisciplinary treatments for patients with new and recurrent brain metastases.Describe the circumstances in which focal therapy, such as surgery or stereotactic radiosurgery, is likely to be beneficial for patients with brain metastases.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ at CME.TheOncologist.com
Modeling Water Movement in Heterogeneous Water‐Repellent Soil: 1. Development of a Contact Angle–Dependent Water‐Retention Model
Authors: Bachmann J. , Deurer M. , Arye G.
Published: August 2007

In the past, hydrophobic soils have been associated mostly with preferential flow phenomena. It has become increasingly evident that besides the phenomena of extremely (hydrophobic) water‐repellent soils, soils with reduced wettability are more the rule than the exception. Despite the extensive literature on the hydraulic behavior of water‐repellent soil, a conceptual model flexible enough to describe typical behavior of wettable and hydrophobic soils as well as for soils with intermediate wetting properties is still missing. We propose a water‐content and time‐dependent contact angle (CA) model that was used as an extension of the van Genuchten equation for the capillary pressure–saturation (CPS) relationship. This model is based on conventional retention parameterizations; that is, the hydrophilic soil is considered as a special case of the general wetting model. Hydrophobic soils as well as soils with subcritical (reduced wettability, not hydrophobic) water repellency are represented by this model. Conceptually, the proposed model links microscopic interfacial properties, indicated by the CA, with the macroscopic hydraulic model mainly by modifying the α of the van Genuchten equation. The modification basically accounts for hysteresis of the main drainage–main wetting branch of the CPS relationship. Compared with conventional hydraulic models, only a few more parameters are needed to describe the wettability extension of the model: mean maximum and minimum CAs and their autocorrelation functions. Additionally, characteristic rewetting time and a breakthrough pressure function are needed for a complete description of the hydraulic properties of the soil. This extended hydraulic model serves as a base for a simulation study in unsaturated soil with reduced wettability.
Geoelectric Studies of Seasonal Wetting and Drying of a Texas Vertisol
Authors: Amidu Sikiru A. , Dunbar John A.
Published: August 2007

Vertisols are complex soils with high clay content (>30%), high shrink–swell potential, and microrelief features known as gilgai We applied field and laboratory electrical‐resistivity measurements to characterize seasonal wetting and drying of a Texas Vertisol, and to quantify the effects of gilgai and cracks on seasonal hydrodynamics of the soil. Thirty‐two multielectrode resistivity‐profiling lines were collected along the same profile from 1 May 2005 to 22 Apr. 2006, using combined dipole–dipole and Schlumberger electrode configurations. The profiles were 17.5 m long and intersected two sets of microlows and microhighs of the gilgai. The resistivity data were inverted using the RES2DINV program and the inverted data were corrected for temperature. We measured variations of resistivity with soil moisture in the laboratory and the results were used to calibrate the field data. To evaluate the resistivity results, in situ measurements of soil moisture were made using auger sampling. During the wetting cycle, three distinct soil moisture regimes were recognized in the upper 1.4 m of the Vertisol: an upper zone (0–0.5‐m depth), which is the most dynamic with regard to wetting and drying; a middle zone (0.5–1.1 m), which is relatively saturated and less dynamic; and a lower zone (below 1.1 m), which is relatively less saturated compared with the middle layer. The saturation of the middle layer appears to be enhanced by preferential flow through cracks. Also, the microrelief topography exercises a control on spatiotemporal variations in soil moisture in that the microhighs dry faster than the microlows.
Measuring Opinions vs. Non-Opinions - The Case of the USA Patriot Act
Authors: Best Samuel J. , McDermott Monika L.
Published: August 2007

The public polling industry frequently faces the challenge of measuring and reporting opinions on topical policy issues about which the public may be uninformed or confused. These situations present a true challenge to pollsters who, through the process of polling itself, could end up manufacturing, rather than measuring, public opinion. Multiple studies have addressed the problems with manufacturing opinions on fictional issues, but none have addressed how or whether these effects occur in the real and possibly more complicated world of actual policy opinion. This paper uses multiple experiments to demonstrate how reported opinions on an actual issue on which the public is largely uninformed  the USA Patriot Act  vary greatly due to simple variations in question wording, content, and response options due to a lack of public knowledge about the Act. Because an uninformed public resorts to scouring questions for information cues with which they can formulate an answer, different question wordings provide different contexts and considerations for respondents and can thereby result in disparate answers to substantively similar questions.
Cold Modelling of an Internally Circulating Fluidized Bed Membrane Reactor
Authors: Boyd Tony , Grace John R. , Lim C. Jim , Adris Alaa-Eldin M
Published: August 2007

A novel fluidized bed membrane reactor with internal catalyst circulation is being developed for the production of high-purity H2 from an autothermal reformer. In order to provide guidance to pilot reactor testing, a cold model was built to study the influence of reactor configuration on hydrodynamics and catalyst circulation. It was found that catalyst circulation was reproducible, but that parallel non-communicating flow channels could lead to flow instability. Solids circulation was found to be adequate for design of the autothermal reformer.
Early Lessons From State-Based Public Option Plans
Authors: Chen Lanhee J.
Published: March 2024

This JAMA Forum discusses the early lessons from state-run public option–style health insurance plans in Colorado and Washington State that can be used by Minnesota and Nevada for their plans that are still under development.
Inkjet Printing on Hydrophobic Surface: Practical Implementation of Stacked Coin Strategy
Authors: Docherty Matthew J. , Naderi Paria , Grau Gerd , Sefiane Khellil , Amirfazli Alidad
Published: March 2024

While inkjet printing on many hydrophilic surfaces is achieved through control of drop spacing and droplet deposition delay, the same for hydrophobic substrates proves challenging. Low surface energies of hydrophobic surfaces prevents intact and uniform lines of low‐viscosity ink to form. In this article, the stacked coin printing strategy used for hydrophilic surfaces, is adapted for hydrophobic surfaces. Stacked coin morphology is seen when droplet deposition time between two sequentially deposited droplets is longer than the evaporation time of the first droplet. On hydrophobic surfaces, the parameter window for successful printing is smaller than on hydrophilic surfaces, thus an investigation is needed to implement this methodology. Experiments were conducted using an inkjet printer with variable stage speed and stage temperature. Silver nanoparticle ink was used to print on Teflon–AF substrates. We identified the following regimes: isolated droplets, isolated multi‐droplets, broken line, true stacked coin, and delamination. The relationship between substrate temperature, drop spacing, and droplet deposition delay controls the occurence of each regime. In this study, 180 °C was identified as the critical temperature for instantaneous drying of the studied ink, and a maximum drop spacing of 20 μm to print continuous lines.
Intelligent Wearable Graphene Nano‐Electronics with Switchable Surface Wettability Capabilities for Autonomous Sweat Enrichment‐Purification‐Analysis
Authors: Hao Zhuang , Fang Xiaojie , Wang Ziran , Huang Cong , Li Feiran , Luo Yang , Ying Yuhan , Ma Shuang , Jia Yuan , Wang Xuejun , Pan Yunlu
Published: March 2024

Sweat wearable biosensors facilitate continuous monitoring of individuals’ in‐depth body physiological state with real‐time and molecular‐level insight. However, limited detection accuracy and sensitivity resulted from insufficient amount of sweat sampling and impurities interferences still hinder their practical applications. Here, a miniature wearable skin‐interfaced intelligent graphene nano‐electronic (SIGN) patch employing a novel Janus membrane integrated surface wettability switchable microfluidic module with autonomous sweat sampling and purification capabilities is presented for in situ analysis of sweat biomarkers. Due to the asymmetric surface energy distribution characteristics of the microfluidic surfaces, rapid, directional transport of sufficient amount of sweat to the Janus membrane is achieved. The Janus membrane purifies the sweat sample and transport the sample to the sensing surface autonomously, thus eliminating impurities interferences and enhancing the sensing performance. An ultra‐flexible bio‐receptor functionalized graphene transistor for accurately monitoring sweat biomarkers such as lactate, with outstanding signal reproducibility and good long‐term (over 1 month) stability, and a signal processing unit are employed incorporating with the microfluidic module. In practical wearing tests, the SIGN patch enables the continuous measuring of sweat lactate levels for volunteers during exercises and intelligently providing a preliminary diagnostic assessment on their exercise intensity successfully, suggesting its potential commercialization prospects.
Emerging Trends of Nanofibrous Piezoelectric and Triboelectric Applications: Mechanisms, Electroactive Materials, and Designed Architectures
Authors: Zhi Chuanwei , Shi Shuo , Wu Hanbai , Si Yifan , Zhang Shuai , Lei Leqi , Hu Jinlian
Published: March 2024

Over the past few decades, significant progress in piezo‐/triboelectric nanogenerators (PTEGs) has led to the development of cutting‐edge wearable technologies. Nanofibers with good designability, controllable morphologies, large specific areas, and unique physicochemical properties provide a promising platform for PTEGs for various advanced applications. However, the further development of nanofiber‐based PTEGs is limited by technical difficulties, ranging from materials design to device integration. Herein, the current developments in PTEGs based on electrospun nanofibers are systematically reviewed. This review begins with the mechanisms of PTEGs and the advantages of nanofibers and nanodevices, including high breathability, waterproofness, scalability, and thermal–moisture comfort. In terms of materials and structural design, novel electroactive nanofibers and structure assemblies based on 1D micro/nanostructures, 2D bionic structures, and 3D multilayered structures are discussed. Subsequently, nanofibrous PTEGs in applications such as energy harvesters, personalized medicine, personal protective equipment, and human–machine interactions are summarized. Nanofiber‐based PTEGs still face many challenges such as energy efficiency, material durability, device stability, and device integration. Finally, the research gap between research and practical applications of PTEGs is discussed, and emerging trends are proposed, providing some ideas for the development of intelligent wearables.
Semiconductor‐Metal Hybrid Nanoparticle‐Based Hydrogels: Efficient Photocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Schlenkrich Jakob , Pluta Denis , Graf Rebecca T. , Wesemann Christoph , Lübkemann‐Warwas Franziska , Bigall Nadja C.
Published: March 2024

In semiconductor‐metal hybrid nanoparticles, excited charge carriers can be separated efficiently by transferring the electron to the metal, because the Fermi level is located within the bandgap of the semiconductor. Besides charge carrier separation, the catalytically active surface of the metal enables the use of these charge carriers for further reactions. Due to limited colloidal stability, the application of nanoparticles in solution is challenging. To circumvent these difficulties, the destabilization can be used to build monolithic 3D (non‐ordered) gel‐like structures with retained high surface area and an ensured diffusion within the network. Here, the resulting nanoparticle‐based hydrogels of CdSe/CdS/Pt nanoparticles show photocatalytic hydrogen production rates up to 58 (mmol(H2))/(g∙h). Due to the self‐supporting network structure, colloidal stability is unnecessary, and the applicability is improved. By simply mixing semiconductor and semiconductor–metal hybrid nanoparticles before gelation, the synthesis of the gels allows the reduction of the metal content, which further tunes the photocatalyst.
Synthesis of novel azo‐linked 4‐arylidene‐benzodiazepine using cellulose@SP@catechin@Fe3O4 nanocomposite and study of their antioxidant activity
Authors: Shafaati Tamila , Nikpassand Mohammad , Mokhtary Masoud , Fekri Leila Zare
Published: March 2024

In the present study, cellulose@SP@catechin@Fe3O4 nanocomposite underwent synthesis and characterization employing various analytical techniques, including Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, vibrating sample magnetometry, X‐ray powder diffraction, and X‐ray spectroscopy. This reusable and efficient nanocomposite facilitated the synthesis of azo‐linked 4‐arylidene‐benzodiazepine, resulting in products with high yields. Characterization of these products was conducted utilizing 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 13C NMR, and FT‐IR spectral data alongside mass analyses. Additionally, their antioxidant activities were assessed via 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl analysis.
Influence of esterified kraft lignin as an interfacial compatibilizer on mechanical properties of acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene/basalt fiber composites
Authors: Lee Hak Yong , Park Jaehee , Myung Suwan , Kim Ki Su , Han Dong‐Wook , Lee Jae‐Chang
Published: March 2024

This research investigates the enhancement effects of basalt fibers (BFs) and kraft lignin (KL) as natural additives on the mechanical properties of acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS)‐based composites. Initially, BF was incorporated into ABS as a fiber reinforcement, and its mechanical properties were evaluated. It was observed that an increase in BF content in ABS led to an increase in the tensile strength while the impact strength tended to decrease. Subsequently, the potential of lignin or modified lignin as interfacial compatibilizers was assessed to improve the miscibility between ABS and BF. The modification of lignin was achieved via esterification by using esterifying agents (acetic anhydride [C2_Ac], propionic anhydride [C3_Pr], and butyric anhydride [C4_Bu]). At the optimal conditions (30 wt% of BF, 15phr of AcKL), the mechanical properties of ABS/BF/AcKL composite presented a 48.1% improvement in tensile strength and a 27.4% enhancement in impact strength compared to those of ABS/BF composite. The fracture surface analysis of the composite revealed that the esterified lignin enhances the compatibility between components, thereby filling the gaps present at the matrix‐fiber interface. These results suggest promising applications for multi‐component composite materials.
Critical survival periods in prostate cancer in Sweden explored by conditional survival analysis
Authors: Hemminki Kari , Zitricky Frantisek , Sundquist Kristina , Sundquist Jan , Försti Asta , Hemminki Akseli , Hemminki Otto
Published: March 2024

Backround

We wanted to characterize conditional survival in prostate cancer (PC) in Sweden around and after 2005 when the vast increase in incidence due to the opportunistic testing for prostate specific antigen (PSA) culminated. We hypothesize that analyzing survival data during that time period may help interpret survival trends. We focus on stage‐specific analysis using conditional survival in order to define the periods when deaths most commonly occurred.

Methods

Data on PC patients were obtained from the Swedish cancer registry for analysis of 1‐, 2.5‐ and 5‐year relative survival and conditional relative survival between years 2004 and 2018. Tumor‐node‐metastatic stage classification at diagnosis was used to specify survival.

Results

Small improvements were observed in stage‐ and age‐related relative survival duriring the study period. Applying conditional relative survival showed that survival in stage T3 up to 2.5 years was better than survival between years 2.5 and 5. Survival in stage T4 was approximately equal in the first and the subsequent 2.5‐year period. For M1, the first 2.5 year survival period was worse than the subsequent one. The proportion of high risk and M1 disease in old patients (80+ years) remained very high and their survival improved only modestly.

Conclusions

The data indicate that M1 metastases kill more patients in the first 2.5 years than between years 2.5 and 5 after diagnosis; T4 deaths are equal in the two periods, and in T3 mortality in the first 2.5‐year period is lower than between years 2.5 and 5 after diagnosis. Conditional survival could be applied to explore critical survival periods even past 5 years after diagnoses and to monitor success in novel diagnostic and treatment practices. Improvement of survival in elderly patients may require clinical input.
A Review on Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Clinical Application of Tinospora sinensis (Lour.) Merr
Authors: Liang Yan , Guo Shao‐Bo , Xu Chang , Su Ying‐Ying , Su Cheng‐Yuan , Zhang Wei , Liu Bin
Published: March 2024

Tinospora sinensis (T. sinensis), whose Tibetan name is “Lezhe”, as a traditional medicine, is widely distributed in China, India and Sri Lanka. It is used for the treatment of rheumatic arthralgia, sciatica, lumbar muscle strain and bruises. Research over the previous decades indicated that T. sinensis mainly contains terpenes, lignans, alkaloids, phenol glycosides and other chemical components. A wide range of pharmacologic activities such as anti‐inflammatory, analgesic, immunosuppressive, anti‐aging, anti‐radiation, anti‐leishmania and liver protection have been reported. However, the scholar's research on the pharmacodynamic material basis of T. sinensis is relatively weak. Data regarding many aspects such as links between the traditional uses and bioactivities, pharmacokinetics, and quality control standard of active compositions is still limited and need more attention. This review reports a total of 241 compounds, the ethnopharmacology and clinical application of T. sinensis, covering the literature which were searched by multiple databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, CNKI and other literature sources from 1996 to date, with a view to provide a systematic and insightful reference and lays a foundation and inspiration for the application and further in‐depth research of T. sinensis resources.
Febrile neutropenia associated with adalimumab in a patient with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Abumuhfouz Ma’In Atallah Mohammad , Alsadi Anas , Umer Waseem Fadhl , Habib Mhd Baraa
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Adalimumab has become essential for managing various chronic inflammatory diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While hematologic complications of adalimumab therapy are rare, they can have significant clinical implications. This report highlights the importance of recognizing and monitoring for neutropenia in patients receiving adalimumab treatment. We also describe the potential mechanisms and management strategies for this adverse event.
Implementation, enrollment, and engagement in an opt‐out telehealth pharmacist‐assisted tobacco treatment program for patients seen in oncology outpatient clinics
Authors: Cummings K. Michael , Toll Benjamin A. , Talbot Vincent , Roberson Avery , Wilson Dianne , Dunlap Martha , Ware Emily C. , Palmer Amanda M. , Bliss Asia A. , Anokye Vincent S. , Warren Graham
Published: March 2024

Objective

To describe the workflow, reach, cost, and self‐reported quit rates for an opt‐out tobacco treatment program (TTP) for patients seen in 43 oncology outpatient clinics.

Methods

Between May 25, 2021, and December 31, 2022, adult patients (≥18 years) visiting clinics affiliated with the Medical University of South Carolina Hollings Cancer Center were screened for smoking status. Those currently smoking were referred to a telehealth pharmacy‐assisted TTP. An attempt was made to contact referred patients by phone. Patients reached were offered free smoking cessation counseling and a 2‐week starter kit of nicotine replacement medication. A random sample of 420 patients enrolled in the TTP were selected to participate in a telephone survey to assess smoking status 4 to 12 months after enrollment.

Results

During the reference period 35,756 patients were screened and 9.3% were identified as currently smoking. Among the 3319 patients referred to the TTP at least once, 2393 (72.1%) were reached by phone, of whom 426 (12.8%) were ineligible for treatment, 458 (13.8%) opted out of treatment, and 1509 (45.5%) received treatment. More than 90% of TTP enrollees smoked daily, with an average of 13.1 cigarettes per day. Follow‐up surveys were completed on 167 of 420 patients, of whom 23.4% to 33.5% reported not smoking; if all nonresponders to the survey are counted as smoking, the range of quit rates is 9.3% to 13.3%.

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate the feasibility of reaching and delivering smoking cessation treatments to patients from a diverse set of geographically dispersed oncology clinics.
A 2‐1‐1 multi‐level perspective of understanding the relationship between green human resource management practices, green psychological climate, and green employee behavior
Authors: Gupta Rohit , Kaur Sukhpreet
Published: March 2024

This study examines the mediating role played by green psychological climate between green human resource management practices and green employee behavior relationship. A cross‐sectional, survey‐based, multi‐level approach was adopted to understand the relationship among the variables. Data was collected from 77 HR managers and 445 employees using online and offline methods of data collection. Drawing on social exchange theory and social cognitive theory, the results of the study revealed that green psychological climate partially mediates the relationship between green human resource management practices and green employee behavior. The study is first in itself to empirically examine the relationship among the variables using multi‐level approach. Multi‐level approach of decoding the relationships in organization behavior is considered as a better way of unlocking the relationships since it addresses several methodological concerns. The study attempts to bind the ideas of social exchange theory, social cognitive theory and strategic HRM with green concept paving way for green strategic HRM. Green human resource management practices foster eco‐friendly HR practices, green psychological climate assesses the organizational atmosphere, and green employee behavior reflects sustainable behavior among employees. This comprehensive view allows organizations to integrate corporate social responsibility and environmental management seamlessly, ensuring that sustainable principles are embedded throughout the company's culture, operations, and employee actions, thereby promoting a more environmentally responsible and socially accountable corporate environment.