bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinguishing Persistent Insulin Autoantibodies With Differential Risk
Authors: Yu Liping , Miao Dongmei , Scrimgeour Laura , Johnson Kelly , Rewers Marian , Eisenbarth George S.
Published: November 2011

A subset of children develops persistent insulin autoantibodies (IAA; almost always as the only islet autoantibody) without evidence of progression to diabetes. The aim of the current study was the development and characterization of the performance of a nonradioactive fluid phase IAA assay in relation to standard IAA radioassay. We developed a nonradioactive IAA assay where bivalent IAA cross-link two insulin moieties in a fluid phase. The serum samples positive for anti-islet autoantibodies from 150 newly diagnosed patients with diabetes (Barbara Davis Center plus Diabetes Autoantibody Standardization Program [DASP] workshop) and 70 prediabetic subjects who were followed to diabetes were studied. In addition, sequential samples from 64 nondiabetic subjects who were persistently IAA+ were analyzed. With 99th percentile of specificity, the new assay with the technology from Meso Scale Discovery Company (MSD-IAA) detects as positive 61% (61 of 100) of new-onset patients and 80% (56 of 70) of prediabetic patients compared with our current fluid phase micro-IAA radioassay (mIAA; 44 and 74%, respectively). In addition, MSD-IAA demonstrated better sensitivity than our mIAA from blinded DASP workshop (68 vs. 56% with the same 99% specificity). Of 64 IAA+ nondiabetic subjects, 25% (8 of 32) who had only IAA and thus the low risk for progression to diabetes were positive with MSD-IAA assay. In contrast, 100% (32 of 32) high-risk children (IAA plus other islet autoantibodies) were positive with MSD-IAA. The IAA detectable by radioassay, but not MSD-IAA, were usually of lower affinity compared with the IAA of the high-risk children. These data suggest that a subset of IAA with current radioassay (not MSD-IAA) represents biologic false positives in terms of autoimmunity leading to diabetes. We hypothesize that factors related to the mechanism of loss of tolerance leading to diabetes determine high affinity and MSD-IAA reactivity.
Blink Nystagmus
Authors: Keim Robert J.
Published: November 2011

• A pattern of eye movement similar to vestibular nystagmus associated with blink is characterized. This artifact can be seen in asymptomatic, otologically normal subjects and is considered to have different meaning than lateral conjugate deviation of the eyes on forced closure of the lids (Cogan sign). Since this nystagmus artifact is most evident during electronystagmographic testing for spontaneous and semispontaneous nystagmus, its importance can be overestimated. Simultaneous monitoring of horizontal and vertical eye movement presently provides a definitive means of identification.
Estimating Speech Threshold From the PI-PB Function
Authors: Jerger Susan , Jerger James
Published: November 2011

• Speech thresholds were determined from the performance intensity function for phonetically balanced (PB) words in 2,117 patients with varying types and degrees of hearing loss. Comparison of this threshold for PB words (PBT) with both pure-tone sensitivity (PTA) and the conventional threshold for spondee words (ST) shows that PBT not only provides a cross-check on pure-tone level, but also conveys additional information about audiometric contour.
An Orbital Roof Fracture Causing Diplopia
Authors: McClurg Fred L. , Swanson Palmer J.
Published: November 2011

• Fractures of the orbital floor are frequently accompanied by diplopia. There are other bony injuries that may produce similar symptoms; however, these are rare. We will describe a case in which a fracture of the roof of the orbit, essentially involving the anterior cranial fossa, produced entrapment with diplopia. A six-month follow-up demonstrated excellent surgical and functional results.
Thoughts on Thinking: Engaging Novice Music Students in Metacognition
Authors: Bathgate Meghan , Sims‐Knight Judith , Schunn Christian
Published: November 2011

Achieving expertise in any area requires extensive practice and engagement with the subject one desires to master. As not all practice yields good progress, methods must be found that lead learners to practice effectively. Many experts employ highly tailored practice involving metacognitive processes, but novices rarely engage in frequent and explicit metacognitive strategies during practice. As a result, novice progress may be impeded through repetition of systematic errors and ineffective techniques. Our study provides evidence of the effectiveness of teaching metacognition to novice music students through weekly lessons. Thirty‐five adolescent students of six instructors were randomly assigned to metacognitive focus or existing practice teaching conditions. Students receiving metacognitive teaching achieved higher performance ratings when compared with students receiving control instruction, even though practice time did not vary between groups. These results suggest that having students explicitly verbalize and reflect on their learning process produces more efficient practice and greater end performance. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Heterogeneous Green Catalyst for Oxidation of Cyclohexene and Cyclooctene with Hydrogen Peroxide in the Presence of Host (Nanocavity of Y‐zeolite)/Guest (N4‐Cu(II) Schiff Base Complex) Nanocomposite Material
Authors: Lashanizadegan Maryama , Rayati Saeed , Dejparvar Derakhshan Zeinab
Published: November 2011

Copper(II) complex of a Schiff base ligand derived from pyrrolcarbaldehyde and o‐phenylenediamine (H2L) has been synthesized and encapsulated in Y‐zeolite matrix. The hybrid material has been characterized by elemental analysis, IR and UV‐Vis spectroscopic studies as well as X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern. The encapsulated copper(II) catalyst is an active catalyst for the oxidation of cyclooctene and cyclohexene using H2O2 as oxidant. Under the optimized reaction conditions 81% conversion of cyclohexene with 65% selectivity for 2‐cyclohexenone formation and 87% conversion of cyclooctene with 46% selectivity for epoxide formation were obtained.
Analysis of the pathological lesions of the lung in a mouse model of cutaneous infection with Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Minami Masaaki , Sobue Sayaka , Ichihara Masatoshi , Hasegawa Tadao
Published: November 2011

Invasive diseases such as toxic shock syndrome caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes) are re‐emerging infectious diseases. The mechanism of pathogenesis is not completely understood although the virulence of this organism has been analyzed using animal model systems, particularly using mice. The analysis of the progression of infection, however, is difficult. Computed tomography (CT) scanning is an extremely powerful technique that we applied to the mouse model of cutaneous infection with S. pyogenes. Two or three days after subcutaneous administration of bacteria, high density reticular areas were detected in the lung by CT. Histopathological examination of the lung was performed to examine the results of CT. Increased numbers of cytokeratin‐positive epithelial cells, probably alveolar type II epithelial cells, were detected but no remarkable increase of inflammatory cell infiltrates was observed. Our results show that the pathological lesions of the lung in this model, wherein relatively few numbers of neutrophils were in the alveoli, are well correlated with the lung of a part of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome patients. Therefore, CT may be useful in assessing the progression of S. pyogenes infection, particularly in the pathological lesions of the lung in this model.
Electrocochleography in Children
Authors: Cullen John K. , Berlin Charles I. , Gondra Maria I. , Adams Marguerite L.
Published: November 2011

• A follow-up study of 35 children subjected to electrocochleography (Ecog) was conducted to determine (1) agreement of Ecog results with other audiometric measures obtained subsequently, and (2) accuracy of recommendations for patient management made on the basis of Ecog results. The latter was determined by parental experience, educational placement and achievement, and information from medical and paramedical personnel currently managing the children. These data indicate that Ecog test results are valuable in helping select between possible management alternatives in children who are not testable by behavioral means. However, discussion of two "problem" cases points to possible errors of management that could be made if Ecog results were the only available diagnostic information.
Solvation effects for polymers at an interface: A hybrid self-consistent field–density functional theory approach
Authors: Bryk Paweł , MacDowell Luis G.
Published: November 2011

Using polyatomic density functional theory of Kierlik and Rosinberg, we show that Wertheim's thermodynamic perturbation theory (TPT) incorporates solvation effects in a systematic, although simplified form. We derive two approximate solvation potentials, which require the knowledge of the correlation function in the reference unbonded fluid only. The theoretical predictions are tested against many-chain Monte Carlo simulations for moderate chain lengths. The predictions of the end-to-end distance in the bulk are in a reasonable agreement with simulations for the TPT(M-1) approximation, while the simpler TPT2_e approximation leads to the solvation potential that is shorter ranged and considerably less accurate. The resulting conformations are used in the subsequent self-consistent field theory calculations of hard-sphere polymers at a hard wall. While the incorporation of the solvation effects has little impact on the density profiles, the predictions of the components of the end-to-end distance vector as a function of the distance to the wall are much improved.
Validation of the Essential ClpP Protease in Mycobacterium tuberculosis as a Novel Drug Target
Authors: Ollinger Juliane , O'Malley Theresa , Kesicki Edward A. , Odingo Joshua , Parish Tanya
Published: November 2011

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
is a pathogen of major global importance. Validated drug targets are required in order to develop novel therapeutics for drug-resistant strains and to shorten therapy. The Clp protease complexes provide a means for quality control of cellular proteins; the proteolytic activity of ClpP in concert with the ATPase activity of the ClpX/ClpC subunits results in degradation of misfolded or damaged proteins. Thus, the Clp system plays a major role in basic metabolism, as well as in stress responses and pathogenic mechanisms.
M. tuberculosis
has two ClpP proteolytic subunits. Here we demonstrate that ClpP1 is essential for viability in this organism in culture, since the gene could only be deleted from the chromosome when a second functional copy was provided. Overexpression of
clpP1
had no effect on growth in aerobic culture or viability under anaerobic conditions or during nutrient starvation. In contrast,
clpP2
overexpression was toxic, suggesting different roles for the two homologs. We synthesized known activators of ClpP protease activity; these acyldepsipeptides (ADEPs) were active against
M. tuberculosis
. ADEP activity was enhanced by the addition of efflux pump inhibitors, demonstrating that ADEPs gain access to the cell but that export occurs. Taken together, the genetic and chemical validation of ClpP as a drug target leads to new avenues for drug discovery.
Thermal Behavior of Sr(II) and Ba(II)‐Diclofenac Complexes in Solid State: Study of the Dehydration and Thermal Decomposition
Authors: Kobelnik Marcelo , Cassimiro Douglas Lopes , Santos Diógenesdos Dos , Ribeiro Clóvis Augusto , Crespi Marisa Spirandeli
Published: November 2011

Solid state compounds of general formula Sr(Diclof)2·5.7H2O and Ba(Diclof)2·4.8H2O were obtained. Thermogravimetry (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X‐ray diffraction powder patterns and microscopy analysis were used to characterize these compounds. Details concerning the dehydration and thermal decomposition as well as data of kinetic parameters have been described here. The kinetic behaviors of these stages were evaluated from several heating rates with samples masses of 2 and 5 mg in open crucibles under a nitrogen atmosphere. The results of the present study improve the knowledge on these compounds including their dehydration and thermal stability. The obtained data depend on the mass of the sample which results in two kinetic behavior patterns.
Enhanced Visible‐Light‐Induced Photoelectrocatalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange by CdS Sensitized TiO2 Nanotube Arrays Electrode
Authors: Jiang Dawei , Zhou Tianshu , Sun Qi , Yu Yanyan , Shi Guoyue , Jin Litong
Published: November 2011

In this work, CdS sensitized TiO2 nanotube arrays (CdS/TiO2NTs) electrode was synthesized with the CdS deposition on the highly ordered titanium dioxide nanotube arrays (TiO2NTs) by sequential chemical bath deposition method (S‐CBD). The as‐prepared CdS/TiO2NTs was characterized by field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The results indicated that the CdS nanoparticles were effectively deposited on the surface of TiO2NTs. The amperometric I‐t curve on the CdS/TiO2NTs electrode was also presented. It was found that the photocurrent density was enhanced significantly from 0.5 to 1.85 mA/cm2 upon illumination with applied potential of 0.5 V at the central wavelength of 253.7 nm. The photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) activity of the CdS/TiO2NTs electrode was investigated by degradation of methyl orange (MO) in aqueous solution. Compared with TiO2NTs electrode, the degradation efficiencies of CdS/TiO2NTs electrode increased from 78% to 99.2% under UV light in 2 h, and from 14% to 99.2% under visible light in 3 h, which was caused by effective separation of the electrons and holes due to the effect of CdS, hence inhibiting the recombination of electron/hole pairs of TiO2NTs.
FARMERS' WILLINGNESS TO PAY FOR AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICE: EVIDENCE FROM NIGERIA
Authors: Ozor Nicholas , Garforth Chris J. , Madukwe Michael C.
Published: November 2011

The study was undertaken to investigate how willing would farmers be to pay for agricultural extension service in Nigeria. A multistage random sampling technique was used to select 268 respondents. Results showed that most farmers (95.1 per cent) were willing to pay for improved extension service as long as the service remained relevant to their needs. Farmers were willing to pay N1000 annually as their own share of the service cost. The most important factors that influenced farmers' willingness to pay were states of origin, items originally paid for, major occupation, minor occupation, number of years in school and sale of farm produce. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymmetric tearing mode in the presence of viscosity
Authors: Militello F. , Borgogno D. , Grasso D. , Marchetto C. , Ottaviani M.
Published: November 2011

The linear stability of the tearing mode (TM) in a plasma column is investigated in the presence of viscosity and finite equilibrium current density gradients (i.e., asymmetries). It is shown that for low β, both effects are essential in order to properly describe the mode behaviour close to marginality. In particular, the theory introduces a critical threshold for the destabilization, such that the perturbation grows only if Δ′>Δ′cr. The value of Δ′cr depends on the equilibrium configuration and on the plasma parameters. Most importantly, Δ′cr can take negative values, thus allowing unstable tearing modes for Δ′ < 0 (even in the absence of bootstrap current).
On the locality of magnetohydrodynamic turbulence scale fluxes
Authors: Teaca Bogdan , Carati Daniele , Andrzej Domaradzki J.
Published: November 2011

The scale locality of energy fluxes for magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) is investigated numerically for stationary states of turbulence. Two types of forces are used to drive turbulence, a kinetic force that acts only on the velocity field and a kinetic-inductive force, which acts on the velocity and magnetic fields alike. The analysis is performed in spectral space, which is decomposed into a series of shells following a power law for the boundaries. The triadic transfers occurring among these shells are computed, and the fluxes and locality functions are obtained by partial summation over the relevant shells. Employing Kraichnan locality functions, values of 1/3 and 2/3 for the scaling exponents of the four MHD energy fluxes are found. These values are smaller than the value of 4/3 found for hydrodynamic turbulence. To better understand these results, an in depth analysis is performed on the total energy flux.
Ultrafast decay of high frequency optical phonon mode in KTiOPO4
Authors: Yang Shan , Adhikari Sanjay , Dobbala Manoj , Ganikhanov Feruz
Published: November 2011

Decay of the strongest optical phonon mode in KTiOPO4 was directly traced using femtosecond coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering spectroscopy. Dephasing of the Raman active mode at ∼700 cm−1 proceeds with the nonlinear polarization dephasing time of 495 ± 10 fs. The dephasing is solely due to the phonon energy decay with corresponding homogeneous linewidth of 21.4 ± 0.5 cm−1. Low temperature linewidth of 14.7 cm−1 is estimated from our data assuming that down-conversion phonon relaxation process is dominant. Our results can help to understand stimulated Raman generation and oscillation of Stokes wave in laser systems where Raman gain is critically dependent on dephasing time.
Localized charge trapping and lateral charge diffusion in metal nanocrystal-embedded High-κ/SiO2 gate stack
Authors: Lwin Z. Z. , Pey K. L. , Liu C. , Liu Q. , Zhang Q. , Chen Y. N. , Singh P. K. , Mahapatra S.
Published: November 2011

In this work, we demonstrate a two-step analysis procedure that enables an in-depth understanding of the localized charge trapping and charge decay mechanisms in metal nanocrystal (MNC)-embedded high-κ/SiO2 gate stacks. The results clearly reveal that vertical charge loss and lateral charge diffusion are two competing mechanisms, and they can be identified by discharging current measurements at elevated temperatures and the Kelvin force microscopy characterization. It is found that the MNC with higher work function has a lower inter-dot charge tunneling probability, which is favorable for improved retention in memory applications. However, the vertical charge loss during the initial decay period is a trade-off and it could be minimized by using a dual-layer MNC structure.
Deviation from time-composition equivalence in polymer solutions with selective cosolvents
Authors: Krishnan Arjun S. , Spontak Richard J.
Published: November 2011

Time-composition superpositioning (tCS) permits determination of the mechanical properties of polymeric materials over a widely extended time (or frequency) domain by systematically varying composition under isothermal conditions. We have recently reported (Soft Matter, 6, 4331, 2010) the existence of such equivalence in technologically relevant triblock copolymers swollen with miscible, midblock-selective cosolvents differing in chemical constitution and viscosity. In this study, chemically homologous homopolymer and copolymer systems exhibiting rheological properties that deviate from tCS are investigated. With regard to the particular case of selectively solvated triblock copolymers, the source of deviation is explained in the context of endblock hopping.
Patterns of subjective quality of life among older adults in rural Vietnam and Indonesia
Authors: Van Minh Hoang , Ng Nawi , Byass Peter , Wall Stig
Published: November 2011

Aim:  This paper aims to assess the subjective quality of life (SQOL) and its correlates among older adults in rural communities of Vietnam and Indonesia.

Methods:  The paper uses the data from the INDEPTH/WHO Study on global aging and adult health (SAGE). The study was carried out in the FilaBavi Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) site in Vietnam and in Purworejo HDSS in Indonesia. All people aged 50 years and over who lived in these two HDSS areas were surveyed. Face‐to‐face household interviews were carried out by trained surveyors using the standardized summary version of the INDEPTH/WHO SAGE questionnaire. The SQOL was assessed by asking the respondents “How would you rate your overall quality of life?” The response set was a five‐point scale where 1 = Very good, 2 = Good, 3 = Moderate, 4 = Bad, 5 = Very bad.

Results:  In both countries, the SQOL was reported to be higher among (i) men; (ii) people with higher education; (iii) people who were in a marital partnership; (iv) people who lived with other family members; and (v) those with higher economic status, compared with that in those of other category(ies) of the same characteristic. In Vietnam, people who belonged to the second to fifth economic quintiles and had more than 6 years of education were sevenfold more likely to report very good/good quality of life compared with those who belonged to the first economic quintile (poorest) and had no formal education. The corresponding figure was 2.7 for Indonesia.

Conclusions:  The patterns of sociodemographic determinants of SQOL show that inequality in quality of life exists among older adults in the two study settings. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12: 397–404.
Effective professional development for e‐learning: What do the managers think?
Authors: Wilson Amy
Published: November 2011

Introducing new methods of teaching and learning requires an institutional approach to professional development in order to cater for the different levels and requirements of staff. The increase in e‐learning use has prompted many institutions to adopt a whole organisation approach to professional development for lecturers.

This paper proposes to answer three related questions. How do institutions of vocational education within New Zealand structure their institutional provision of e‐learning professional development? What training or other development opportunities are provided by institutions? What do e‐learning managers feel are the types of e‐learning professional development that work best in terms of lecturer development and support?

A literature review was completed and interviews were held with e‐learning managers from 13 institutions. The data collected from the interviews were then analysed using a grounded analysis approach.

The analysis process yielded concepts that were related to different types of professional development training, information and support. The analysis provided a structure of professional development. Furthermore, the efficiency of the types of e‐learning professional development was analysed based on e‐learning managers' perception and evaluation models. Professional development with opportunities for skill acquisition and collaboration was deemed the most effective.

Practitioner Notes

What is already known about this topic

Academic staff need new skills to teach e‐learning.

There are different levels of professional development, which vary in duration and scope.

Professional development needs to be relevant for academic staff to benefit.

What this paper adds

This paper discusses the types of professional development made available at tertiary institutions for staff new to e‐learning.

This paper explains what e‐learning managers feel is the most effective professional development format.

This paper analyses why the e‐learning managers feel this format is the most effective.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Managers will be better informed why particular types of professional development for e‐learning work well.

Academic staff will be better informed about what professional development might best suit them.

Academic staff will be better informed about what managers feel about effective professional development and be able to have a greater role in the evaluation feedback cycle.
Confusion regarding cervical cancer screening and chlamydia screening among sexually active young women: Table 1
Authors: Ogbechie Oluwatobi Awele , Hacker Michele R , Dodge Laura E , Patil Mitalee Milan , Ricciotti Hope A
Published: November 2011

Objective

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recently recommended that cervical cancer screening begin at 21 years of age and occur biennially for low-risk women younger than 30 years. Earlier studies suggested that women may have limited understanding of the differences between cervical cancer screening and chlamydia screening. This study assessed the knowledge of chlamydia and cervical cancer screening tests and schedules in younger women.

Methods

A survey regarding knowledge of chlamydia and cervical cancer screening was administered to 60 younger women aged 18–25 years in an obstetrics and gynaecology clinic at an urban community health centre.

Results

The majority of respondents recalled having had a Pap smear (93.3%) or chlamydia test (75.0%). Although many respondents understood that a Pap smear checks for cervical cancer (88.3%) and human papillomavirus (68.3%), 71.7% mistakenly believed that a Pap smear screens for chlamydia. No respondent correctly identified the revised cervical cancer screening schedule, and 83.3% selected annual screening. Few respondents (23.3%) identified the annual chlamydia screening schedule and 26.7% were unsure.

Conclusion

Many younger women in an urban community health centre believed that cervical cancer screening also screens for chlamydia and were confused about chlamydia screening schedules. As there is limited knowledge of the revised ACOG cervical cancer screening guidelines, there is a risk that currently low chlamydia screening rates may decrease further after these new guidelines are better known. Obstetrician gynaecologists and primary care providers should educate younger women about the differences between chlamydia and cervical cancer screening and encourage sexually active younger women to have annual chlamydia screening.
Prevalent Serum Antibody Is Not a Marker of Immune Protection against Acquisition of Oncogenic HPV16 in Men
Authors: Lu Beibei , Viscidi Raphael P. , Wu Yougui , Lee Ji-Hyun , Nyitray Alan G. , Villa Luisa L. , Lazcano-Ponce Eduardo , da Silva Roberto J. Carvalho , Baggio Maria Luiza , Quiterio Manuel , Salmeron Jorge , Smith Danelle C. , Abrahamsen Martha E. , Papenfuss Mary R. , Stockwell Heather G. , Giuliano Anna R.
Published: November 2011

In women, naturally induced anti–human papilloma virus (HPV) serum antibodies are a likely marker of host immune protection against subsequent HPV acquisition and progression to precancerous lesions and cancers. However, it is unclear whether the same is the case in men. In this study, we assessed the risk of incident genital infection and 6-month persistent genital infection with HPV16 in relation to baseline serostatus in a cohort of 2,187 men over a 48-month period. Genital swabs were collected every 6 months and tested for HPV presence. Incidence proportions by serostatus were calculated at each study visit to examine whether potential immune protection attenuated over time. Overall, incidence proportions did not differ statistically between baseline seropositive and seronegative men at any study visit or over the follow-up period. The risk of incident and 6-month persistent infection was not associated with baseline serostatus or baseline serum antibody levels in the cohort. Our findings suggest that baseline HPV seropositivity in men is not associated with reduced risk of subsequent HPV16 acquisition. Thus, prevalent serum antibodies induced by prior infection may not be a suitable marker for subsequent immune protection against genital HPV16 acquisition in men. Cancer Res; 72(3); 676–85. ©2011 AACR.
Design, Synthesis, and Insecticidal Activity of 1,5‐Diphenyl‐1‐pentanone Analogues
Authors: Yang Shaoxiang , Kang Tieniu , Rui Changhui , Yang Xinling , Sun Yufeng , Cui Zining , Ling Yun
Published: November 2011

Three series of novel 1,5‐diphenyl‐1‐pentanone derivatives were designed and synthesized. Their structures were characterized by IR, 1H NMR techniques, and elemental analysis. The insecticidal activities of the new compounds were preliminarily evaluated. The bioassay results indicated that the compounds X11–X30 displayed better aphicidal activity against Aphis gossypii than compounds X1–X10 and the lead compound (E)‐1,5‐diphenyl‐1‐penten‐1‐one (A). The inhibitory rates of compounds X6 and X29 were 100% against Plutella xylostella (L.) at 600 mg·L−1. Compounds X12, X13, X19, X24, X25, X26 and X27 showed higher insecticidal activity against Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval) at 600 mg·L−1 than the lead compound (A).
Solar blind metal-semiconductor-metal ultraviolet photodetectors using quasi-alloy of BGaN/GaN superlattices
Authors: Srour H. , Salvestrini J. P. , Ahaitouf A. , Gautier S. , Moudakir T. , Assouar B. , Abarkan M. , Hamady S. , Ougazzaden A.
Published: November 2011

Large internal gains that can be obtained in wide band gap semiconductors-based (GaN and ZnO types) Schottky and/or metal-semiconductor-metal photodetectors are generally accompanied by large dark current and time response. We show that, using quasi-alloy of BGaN/GaN superlattices as the active layer, the dark current can be lowered while maintaining high internal gain (up to 3 × 104) for optical power in the nW range and low time response (few tens of ns) for optical power in the W range. Furthermore, the boron incorporation allows the tuning of the cutoff wavelength.
Mapping the morphogenetic potential of antler fields through deleting and transplanting subregions of antlerogenic periosteum in sika deer (Cervus nippon)
Authors: Gao Zhiguang , Yang Fuhe , McMahon Chris , Li Chunyi
Published: November 2011

Morphogenetic fields are a localised and regionally regulated group of cells capable of responding to signals leading to the development of organs. In this study, we sought to determine if antlers develop from such a field. We divided antler fields into four subregions: anterior, posterior, medial and lateral. The antlerogenic periosteum (AP) in each subregion (half of the AP) was deleted and then transplanted into an ectopic site. Antlers form from the cells exclusively residing in the AP, which is located in an antler field. The morphogenetic potential of each subregion was assessed by the antler growth from both the defective field and the transplantation site. The results showed that when the AP anterior half was absent, the fields formed antlers missing the first tine, whereas when the anterior half was present, the ectopic sites regenerated antlers containing the first tine. When the medial half was deleted, the fields could only grow spike antlers, and when the medial half was present, the ectopic sites developed branched antlers. In contrast, the antler fields were able to compensate the defects caused by ablation of the posterior or the lateral half to form relatively normal antlers; and the ectopic sites containing these grafted halves only formed spike antlers. Therefore, antler morphogenetic information was primarily held in the AP anterior‐medial halves. This study substantiates the presence of morphogenetic fields in regulating the distinct pattern of antler growth, and demonstrates that antler development is a useful model for the study of morphogenetic fields.
Nonpharmacologic Intervention to Reduce Blood Pressure in Older Patients With Mild Hypertension
Authors: Applegate William B. , Miller Stephen T. , Elam Janet T. , Cushman William C. , El Derwi Douaa , Brewer Amy , Graney Marshall J.
Published: November 2011

• Background.—Although nonpharmacologic interventions are widely recommended in the therapy of high blood pressure in older adults, surprisingly little data exist to confirm the efficacy of these interventions in older persons.

Methods.—We conducted a randomized, controlled clinical trial in persons aged 60 to 85 years with a diastolic blood pressure of 85 to 100 mm Hg. The experimental arm was a nonpharmacologic intervention combining weight reduction, sodium restriction, and increased physical activity. The nonpharmacologic intervention consisted of eight weekly group and two individual sessions during the intensive phase, followed by four monthly group sessions during the maintenance phase. The control group received no treatment during the study. Blood pressure was assessed by certified technicians (blinded to group assignment) using random zero sphygmomanometers.

Results.—Of 56 participants randomized, 47 completed the entire 6-month trial (21 in the intervention group and 26 in the control group). Attendance at the intervention sessions was excellent. The intervention group lost more weight (-2.1 kg) over 6 months than the control group (+0.3 kg). Trends for decreasing 24-hour urine sodium excretion in both the intervention and control groups, with greater trend in the intervention group, were not statistically significant. The intervention group experienced more reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure than did the control group (mean differences between groups at 6 months, 4.2/4.9 mm Hg, respectively).

Conclusions.—Our data indicate that a nonpharmacologic intervention will lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels in older people with borderline or mild elevations of diastolic blood pressure.
A generator with nonlinear spring oscillator to provide vibrations of multi-frequency
Authors: Yang Bin , Liu Jingquan , Tang Gang , Luo Jiangbo , Yang Chunsheng , Li Yigui
Published: November 2011

A piezoelectric generator with nonlinear spring oscillator is proposed to provide multiple resonant modes for operation and improve conversion efficiency. In order to scavenge the vibration energy of multiple frequencies from a certain vibration source, two types of nonlinear springs have been employed and tested. The maximum output power of 5, 17.83, and 23.39 μW for the nonlinear spring of 8.3 N/m with 1 g acceleration has been obtained under the resonant frequency of 89, 104, and 130 Hz, respectively. Its total output power of 46.22 μW is obviously larger than the one of 28.35 μW for traditional second-order spring-mass linear system.
Rapid reversal of impaired inhibitory and excitatory transmission but not spine dysgenesis in a mouse model of mental retardation
Authors: Powell Andrew D. , Gill Kalbinder K. , Saintot Pierre‐Philippe , Jiruska Premysl , Chelly Jamel , Billuart Pierre , Jefferys John G. R.
Published: November 2011

Non‐technical summary  Intellectual disability has long been attributed at the cellular level to abnormalities in the structures that receive incoming connections to the major classes of neurons in the brain. These misshaped ‘dendrites’ and especially misshaped ‘dendritic spines’ have been found in many types of intellectual disability. We have used a mouse model of one of the human intellectual disability mutations on a gene on the X‐chromosome called Ophn‐1. We show that, in addition to the misshaped dendritic spines, these mice have abnormal physiology in the inability of both excitatory and inhibitory inputs (‘synapses’) to operate repetitively as they need to in many aspects of normal brain function. A drug known as a Rho‐GAP inhibitor was able to reverse the physiological impairment within 20 min, without changing the structure of dendrites or dendritic spines. This class of drug may have a role in limiting disability in this condition.
Mental Health and Well-Being Among Home Health Aides
Authors: Yanez Hernandez Melissa , Kuo Elizabeth Fong-Chy , Henriquez Taveras Yefrenia , Lee Ann , Ramos Aida , Ringel Joanna , Andreae Susan , Tsui Emma , Safford Monika M. , Avgar Ariel C. , Shen Megan J. , Dell Nicola , Shalev Daniel , Riffin Catherine , Wiggins Faith , Kozlov Elissa , Moise Nathalie , Sterling Madeline R.
Published: June 2024

Importance

Home health aides and attendants (HHAs) provide essential care to older adults and those with chronic conditions in the home. However, some HHAs struggle with poor mood and stress, which may have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective

To elicit HHAs’ perspectives toward mental health and well-being, including how their job influences both and how to better support the workforce in the future.

Design, Setting, and Participants

For this qualitative study, focus groups and interviews with HHAs were facilitated in English and Spanish from August 17, 2022, to February 9, 2023, in partnership with the 1199SEIU Training and Employment Fund, a benefit fund of the 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East and the largest health care union in the US. Included were HHAs at risk for poor mental health and well-being, which were defined as having at least mild or more symptoms on either the 8-item Personal Health Questionnaire depression scale, the 4-item Cohen Perceived Stress Scale, or the University of California, Los Angeles Loneliness Scale.

Exposure

Mental health and well-being of HHAs.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Focus groups and interviews were audio recorded, professionally transcribed, and translated. A thematic analysis was performed that was informed by Pender’s Health Promotion Model and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s Total Worker Health model.

Results

A total of 28 HHAs from 14 different agencies participated (mean [SD] age, 54.3 [10.8] years; 26 female [93%]). Seventeen participants (61%) spoke Spanish at home. Five key themes emerged: (1) HHAs’ attitudes toward mental health and well-being were influenced by a variety of personal and cultural factors; (2) HHAs’ relationships with their patients impacted their mood in both positive and negative ways; (3) structural and organizational aspects of the job, alongside the COVID-19 pandemic, impacted HHAs’ mood and stress levels; (4) HHAs used a variety of strategies to cope with their emotions; and (5) HHAs were eager for interventions that can improve their mood, particularly those that bring them closer to their colleagues.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that HHAs’ mental health and well-being may be influenced by both personal and occupational factors. Interventions and policies to better support their emotional well-being on the job are warranted.
Change in Patient Enrollment After Site Principal Investigator Turnover in Surgical Clinical Trials
Authors: Tian Yao , Smith Charesa J. , Balbale Salva , Schäfer Willemijn Louise Albertine , Holl Jane L. , Raval Mehul V.
Published: June 2024

This cohort study examines the association of principal investigator (PI) turnover with patient enrollment in surgical clinical trials.
Grooved Microneedle Patch Augments Adoptive T Cell Therapy Against Solid Tumors via Diverting Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Zhou Ruyi , Yu Hao , Sheng Tao , Wu Yingke , Chen Yingxin , You Jiahuan , Yang Yinxian , Luo Bowen , Zhao Sheng , Zheng Yi , Li Hongjun , Zhang Yuqi , Guo Yugang , Gu Zhen , Yu Jicheng
Published: June 2024

The efficacy of adoptive T cell therapy (ACT) for the treatment of solid tumors remains challenging. In addition to the poor infiltration of effector T (Teff) cells limited by the physical barrier surrounding the solid tumor, another major obstacle is the extensive infiltration of regulatory T (Treg) cells, a major immunosuppressive immune cell subset, in the tumor microenvironment. Here, this work develops a grooved microneedle patch for augmenting ACT, aiming to simultaneously overcome physical and immunosuppressive barriers. The microneedles are engineered through an ice‐templated method to generate the grooved structure for sufficient T‐cell loading. In addition, with the surface modification of chemokine CCL22, the MNs could not only directly deliver tumor‐specific T cells into solid tumors through physical penetration, but also specifically divert Treg cells from the tumor microenvironment to the surface of the microneedles via a cytokine concentration gradient, leading to an increase in the ratio of Teff cells/Treg cells in a mouse melanoma model. Consequently, this local delivery strategy of both T cell receptor T cells and chimeric antigen receptor T cells via the CCL22‐modified grooved microneedles as a local niche could significantly enhance the antitumor efficacy and reduce the on‐target off‐tumor toxicity of ACT.
Direct Electroplating Ruthenium Precursor on the Surface Oxidized Nickel Foam for Efficient and Stable Bifunctional Alkaline Water Electrolysis
Authors: Li Changqing , Kim Bumseop , Li Zhongping , Thapa Ranjit , Zhang Yifan , Seo Jeong‐Min , Guan Runnan , Tang Feng , Baek Jae‐Hoon , Kim Young Hyun , Jeon Jong‐Pil , Park Noejung , Baek Jong‐Beom
Published: June 2024

Water electrolysis to produce hydrogen (H2) using renewable energy is one of the most promising candidates for realizing carbon neutrality, but its reaction kinetics is hindered by sluggish anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Ruthenium (Ru) in its high‐valence state (oxide) provides one of the most active OER sites and is less costly, but thermodynamically unstable. The strong interaction between Ru nanoparticles (NPs) and nickel hydroxide (Ni(OH)2) is leveraged to directly form Ru–Ni(OH)2 on the surface of a porous nickel foam (NF) electrode via spontaneous galvanic replacement reaction. The formation of Ru─O─Ni bonds at the interface of the Ru NPs and Ni(OH)2 (Ru–Ni(OH)2) on the surface oxidized NF significantly enhance stability of the Ru–Ni(OH)2/NF electrode. In addition to OER, the catalyst is active enough for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). As a result, it is able to deliver overpotentials of 228 and 15 mV to reach 10 mA cm−2 for OER and HER, respectively. An industry‐scale evaluation using Ru–Ni(OH)2/NF as both OER and HER electrodes demonstrates a high current density of 1500 mA cm−2 (OER: 410 mV; HER: 240 mV), surpassing commercial RuO2 (OER: 600 mV) and Pt/C based performance (HER: 265 mV).
Needle‐Like Multifunctional Biphasic Microfiber for Minimally Invasive Implantable Bioelectronics
Authors: Nam Seonghyeon , Cha Gi Doo , Sunwoo Sung‐Hyuk , Jeong Jae Hwan , Kang Hyejeong , Park Ok Kyu , Lee Kyeong‐Yeon , Oh Seil , Hyeon Taeghwan , Choi Seung Hong , Lee Seung‐Pyo , Kim Dae‐Hyeong
Published: June 2024

Implantable bioelectronics has attracted significant attention in electroceuticals and clinical medicine for precise diagnosis and efficient treatment of target diseases. However, conventional rigid implantable devices face challenges such as poor tissue‐device interface and unavoidable tissue damage during surgical implantation. Despite continuous efforts to utilize various soft materials to address such issues, their practical applications remain limited. Here, a needle‐like stretchable microfiber composed of a phase‐convertible liquid metal (LM) core and a multifunctional nanocomposite shell for minimally invasive soft bioelectronics is reported. The sharp tapered microfiber can be stiffened by freezing akin to a conventional needle to penetrate soft tissue with minimal incision. Once implanted in vivo where the LM melts, unlike conventional stiff needles, it regains soft mechanical properties, which facilitate a seamless tissue‐device interface. The nanocomposite incorporating with functional nanomaterials exhibits both low impedance and the ability to detect physiological pH, providing biosensing and stimulation capabilities. The fluidic LM embedded in the nanocomposite shell enables high stretchability and strain‐insensitive electrical properties. This multifunctional biphasic microfiber conforms to the surfaces of the stomach, muscle, and heart, offering a promising approach for electrophysiological recording, pH sensing, electrical stimulation, and radiofrequency ablation in vivo.
Beyond Lipids: Exploring Advances in Polymeric Gene Delivery in the Lipid Nanoparticles Era
Authors: Jogdeo Chinmay M. , Siddhanta Kasturi , Das Ashish , Ding Ling , Panja Sudipta , Kumari Neha , Oupický David
Published: June 2024

The recent success of gene therapy during the COVID‐19 pandemic has underscored the importance of effective and safe delivery systems. Complementing lipid‐based delivery systems, polymers present a promising alternative for gene delivery. Significant advances have been made in the recent past, with multiple clinical trials progressing beyond phase I and several companies actively working on polymeric delivery systems which provides assurance that polymeric carriers can soon achieve clinical translation. The massive advantage of structural tunability and vast chemical space of polymers is being actively leveraged to mitigate shortcomings of traditional polycationic polymers and improve the translatability of delivery systems. Tailored polymeric approaches for diverse nucleic acids and for specific subcellular targets are now being designed to improve therapeutic efficacy. This review describes the recent advances in polymer design for improved gene delivery by polyplexes and covalent polymer‐nucleic acid conjugates. The review also offers a brief note on novel computational techniques for improved polymer design. The review concludes with an overview of the current state of polymeric gene therapies in the clinic as well as future directions on their translation to the clinic.
Super Hydrous Solvated Structure of Chaotropic Ca2+ Contributes Superior Anti‐Freezing Aqueous Electrolytes and Stabilizes the Zn anode
Authors: Shi Mengyao , Sun Tianjiang , Zhang Weijia , Nian Qingshun , Sun Qiong , Cheng Min , Liang Jing , Tao Zhanliang
Published: June 2024

The further development of aqueous zinc (Zn)‐ion batteries (AZIBs) is constrained by the high freezing points and the instability on Zn anodes. Current improvement strategies mainly focus on regulating hydrogen bond (HB) donors (H) of solvent water to disrupt HBs, while neglecting the environment of HB‐acceptors (O). Herein, we propose a mechanism of chaotropic cation‐regulated HB‐acceptor via a “super hydrous solvated” structure. Chaotropic Ca2+ can form a solvated structure via competitively binding O atoms in H2O, effectively breaking the HBs among H2O molecules, thereby reducing the glass transition temperature of hybrid 1 mol L−1 (M) ZnCl2+4 M CaCl2 electrolyte (−113.2 °C). Meanwhile, the high hydratability of Ca2+ contributes to the water‐poor solvated structure of Zn2+, suppressing side reactions and uneven Zn deposition. Benefiting from the anti‐freezing electrolyte and high reversible Zn anode, the Zn||Pyrene‐4,5,9,10‐tetraone (PTO) batteries deliver an ultrahigh capacity of 183.9 mAh g−1 at 1.0 A g−1 over 1600‐time stable cycling at −60 °C. This work presents a cheap and efficient aqueous electrolyte to simultaneously improve low‐temperature performances and Zn stability, broadening the design concepts for antifreeze electrolytes.