bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prisoners' Right to Vote in Hong Kong: A Human Rights Perspective
Authors: Chui Wing Hong
Published: July 2007

According to Article 26 of the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, permanent residents shall have the right to vote and the right to stand for election in accordance with the law. In the eyes of the public, voting is a fundamental right of democracy and promotes citizen participation in choosing the people to represent them in the political system. It is true to say that, 'an inclusive democracy values all of its citizens' (Right to Vote, 2005). However, does every citizen who is above 18 years old have the right to vote in Hong Kong? While prisoners are deprived the right to vote in Hong Kong, other jurisdictions such as the United Kingdom, Europe, and Canada currently practise criminal disenfranchisement in more limited ways. To fill the gap, this paper aims to examine whether laws should be reviewed and amended to remove the barrier to voting faced by the prisoner in Hong Kong. It argues that Hong Kong should grant the right of prisoners to vote through examining relevant laws and several landmark court cases.
Prospects for the UK Economy
Authors: Khoman Ehsan , Kirby Simon
Published: July 2007

During 2006, output in the UK economy grew by 2.8 per cent and the robust pace of economic growth has continued in the first half of this year. After a first estimate of quarterly GDP growth of 0.7 per cent into the first quarter of this year, the official preliminary estimate suggests that the economy expanded by 0.8 per cent into the second quarter. The economy continues to be driven by business services and finance, although the production sector actually reported quarterly growth for the first time since the first quarter of 2006. The economy is now operating around full capacity, and has recovered from the weakness that was apparent in 2005. We have revised up our forecast for this year to 2.8 per cent per annum, from 2.7 per cent per annum in our April forecast. This is due to an upward revision to estimates of GDP growth at the end of 2006 and more robust growth than we had anticipated in the first half of this year. We expect growth of just below the trend rate for the remainder of the forecast period as domestic demand growth moderates.
Internal Versus External Labour Flexibility: The Role of Knowledge Codification
Authors: Caroli Eve
Published: July 2007

This article uses a competence-based approach to the firm in order to analyse the recent destabilisation of internal labour markets. We argue that increasing knowledge codification made possible by the diffusion of information and communication technologies has made competences less dependent upon individuals. Knowledge has been increasingly embodied in firms themselves, which has played an important role in lowering the relative cost of human resource management strategies based on external labour flexibility. As a consequence, recourse to external labour markets has developed, which may harm firms' innovative capabilities in the long run.
Children's productive command of grammatical gender and mutation in Welsh: An alternative to rule-based learning
Authors: Thomas Enlli Môn , Mueller Gathercole Virginia C.
Published: July 2007

This paper examines Welsh-speaking children's productive command of mutation — a set of morphophonological changes, conditioned by lexical and syntactic environments, that affect the initial consonants of words. In Welsh, grammatical gender is marked by mutations, and the mapping between mutation and gender is opaque. Using a Cloze-type procedure, Experiment 1 presented children between the ages of 41/2 and 9 years with a distant gender-marked context, and Experiments 2 and 3 presented similar-aged children with triggering contexts for mutation that were not conditioned by gender. Results suggest that children's ability to mark gender categories is not limited by their underlying knowledge of the mutation system in general, but the course of development is protracted and complex.
Provision for advanced pain management techniques in adult palliative care: a national survey of anaesthetic pain specialists
Authors: Kay S. , Husbands E. , Antrobus J.H. , Munday D.
Published: July 2007

Introduction : It is estimated that 8% of cancer patients could benefit from advanced pain management techniques; some 12 000 patients per year in the UK. In 2002, Linklater et al. surveyed palliative medicine consultants to assess their access and attitude to such techniques, finding under-utilization with a lack of formal arrangements for referral. We report a survey of pain specialist anaesthetists on the same topic. Method : Postal questionnaire survey of lead anaesthetists in UK pain clinics. Results : 106 responses were received from 170 questionnaires sent (62%). Referral rates from palliative medicine to pain clinics were low; only 31% of respondents received more than 12 per year. Joint consulting arrangements were rare, but were associated with more referrals. Only 25% of anaesthetists' job plans had time allocated for palliative medicine referrals, but where present this correlated positively with referrals received (P <0.002). Total interventions were estimated at less than 1000 per year. Discussion : There is evidence of under-referral of patients for advanced pain management procedures with a lack of integrated services. Palliative Medicine 2007; 21 : 279—284
Modes of hoping
Authors: Webb Darren
Published: July 2007

It is widely acknowledged that hoping is an integral part of what it is to be human. The present article strives to make sense of the myriad competing conceptions of hope that have emerged over the past half-century. Two problems with the literature are highlighted. First, discussions of hope tend to take place within rather than between disciplines. Second, hope is often taken to be an undifferentiated experience. In order to address the first problem, the article takes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing on research from the fields of philosophy, anthropology, psychology, theology and politics. In order to address the second problem, the article proposes that hope be regarded as a human universal that can be experienced in different modes. A variety of theories and models of hope are discussed, including those offered by Marcel, Dauenhauer, Bloch, Moltmann, Bovens, Pettit, Snyder, Rorty and Gutiérrez. While many of these claim to have identified the characteristics of hope, it is argued that each captures something about a particular mode of hoping. The theories and models are integrated into a framework comprising five modes of hoping: patient, critical, estimative, resolute and utopian. Examining hope in this way, as a human universal that can be experienced in different modes, may help us see the varying conceptions that presently exist within the human sciences not as conflicting, nor even as competing, but rather as complementary.
Critique as a technique of self: a Butlerian analysis of Judith Butler's prefaces
Authors: Boland Tom
Published: July 2007

This article considers `critique' as performative, being on the one hand a reiterative performance, that enacts the `critic' through the act of critique, and on the other hand reflecting the constitution of the subject. While this approach takes on the conceptual framework of Judith Butler's work, it differs by refusing critique — or its correlates; parody, subversion or similar — any special status. Like any other performance critique is taken here as a cultural practice, as a Foucauldian `technique of self', though the complex genealogy of such a technique lies outside the scope of this article. In order to illustrate this argument I interpret a number of Butler's prefaces, interviews and digressions which diverge from her own theoretical framework, and argue that these `fictions' arise from critical `disavowals': that is, a `self-transformative' turn against power. The subjective `crisis' that prompts critique is then elaborated by comparison to Girard's work on imitation and sacrifice.
Developmental regression and autism reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Woo Emily Jane , Ball Robert , Landa Rebecca , Zimmerman Andrew W. , Braun M. Miles ,   VAERS Working Group, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Maryland, USA
Published: July 2007

We report demographic and clinical characteristics of children reported to the US Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) as having autism or another developmental disorder after vaccination. We completed 124 interviews with parents and reviewed medical records for 31 children whose records contained sufficient information to evaluate the child's developmental history. Medical record review indicated that 27 of 31 (87%) children had autism/ASD and 19 (61.3%) had evidence of developmental regression (loss of social, language, or motor skills). The proportion of VAERS cases of autism with regression was greater than that reported in population-based studies, based on the subset of VAERS cases with medical record confirmation. This difference may reflect preferential reporting to VAERS of autism with regression. In other respects, the children in this study appear to be similar to other children with autism. Further research might determine whether the pathogenesis of autism with developmental regression differs from that of autism without regression.
Inclusion of pupils with autism
Authors: Reiter Shunit , Vitani Taly
Published: July 2007

An intervention program aimed at the improvement of the quality of inclusion of pupils with autism in a regular fourth grade classroom (average age of 9 years) was applied with 23 pupils. Two pupils with autism were included from first grade. The regular pupils displayed signs of burnout stemming from the inclusion. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of a specially designed intervention program on the regular pupils' level of burnout, attitude to the pupils with autism, and the quality of their mediation. Three questionnaires covering these variables were administered twice, at the beginning and at the end of the intervention program. The findings showed less burnout at the end of the program, significant improvement in the quality of mediation and more positive attitudes towards pupils with autism. Significant correlations were found between burnout, quality of tutoring and positive attitudes towards pupils with autism.
Do behavioural approaches teach children with autism to play or are they pretending?
Authors: Luckett Tim , Bundy Anita , Roberts Jacqueline
Published: July 2007

Play is, by definition, internally motivated, flexible, spontaneous and voluntary. Yet some researchers claim to have taught children with autism to play using behavioural interventions that are heavily structured, repetitive and make use of external reinforcements. In the current systematic review, we examine the extent to which these claims are supported by the evidence presented by the researchers themselves. We conclude that the most effective behavioural interventions have been those which have built on children's existing abilities or have relied on the motivating nature of activities themselves rather than on external rewards. We discuss the problems inherent in distinguishing between behavioural and cognitive change in children's play and highlight generalization as a poorly understood but focal process. Finally, we discuss the value of teaching children with autism play behaviours when these are not characterized by the defining qualities of play as a disposition.
Discourses about reading among seven- and eight-year-old children in classroom pedagogic cultures
Authors: Davis Pauline
Published: July 2007

This article reports on case study research of seven- and eight-year-old children's discourse about reading. The case studies were selected to provide classrooms in contrasting neighbourhoods within a white `working class' town in the North of England. Mixed methods were employed, but primarily the case studies were ethnographic in character. A sociocultural perspective is taken, drawing on Gee's (1999) definition of discourse and cultural models. Two main differently gendered discourses about reading were encountered. The one discourse, dominant in the `working class' classroom, was strongly gendered and afforded reading low status. The other discourse encountered in the `middle class' classroom was gender-inclusive and reading carried high status. It is argued that the interaction between social class and gender is important in understanding children's discourse about reading. The idea of a classroom meta-discourse is introduced. It is argued that, when classroom meta-discourse about reading is intense and in opposition to the values and expectations of preferred school pedagogic practices, under some conditions children's classroom meta-discourse can influence classroom processes and practices.
Mineralogical controls on the distribution of trace elements in metasomatized peridotite enclaves from Planany, Czech Republic
Authors: Owen J. V. , Dostal J. , Fisera M.
Published: July 2007

Small (m-scale) peridotite enclaves at Planany (central Czech Republic) are separated from their gneissic host rocks by a narrow (cm-scale) reaction rim comprising an inner, tremolite + phlogopite zone and an outer, essentially monomineralic phlogopite zone. Both retain an Mg# very similar to that of the peridotite (Mg# = 81), but relative to this reference frame, show large increases in LILE (K, Rb, Ba) and radionuclides (U, Th). On a smaller scale, however, there has been a mineralogically-controlled decoupling of various components, particularly among the HFSE and REE, the former favouring the phlogopite-rich outer layer of the reaction rim, the latter the amphibole-rich inner zone. Taken together, however, the reaction zones preserve key compositional features of their inferred protolith.
Somatic hypermutation of SOCS1 in lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma is accompanied by high JAK2 expression and activation of STAT6
Authors: Mottok Anja , Renné Christoph , Willenbrock Klaus , Hansmann Martin-Leo , Bräuninger Andreas
Published: July 2007

Aberrant activities of JAK/STAT signaling pathways have been observed in several hematologic malignancies. Here, we show high expression of JAK2 in the tumor cells of lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma in 85% of cases and activation of JAK2 in 39% of cases. STAT6, which is a target of JAK2, was activated in 50% of the cases. SOCS1 controls JAK2 activity and degradation. Mutations in SOCS1 of either somatic or germ-line origin were observed in micromanipulated tumor cells of 50% of cases. Most mutations truncated SOCS1 or caused replacement of amino acids in functional important regions. Activating mutations in exon 12 of JAK2, which are frequent in myeloproliferative diseases, were not observed. In lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma SOCS1 function may thus be frequently impaired by mutations, and this may contribute to high JAK2 expression and activation of the JAK2/STAT6 pathway.
Experience with inhaled iloprost and bosentan in portopulmonary hypertension
Authors: Hoeper M. M. , Seyfarth H. J. , Hoeffken G. , Wirtz H. , Spiekerkoetter E. , Pletz M. W. , Welte T. , Halank M.
Published: July 2007

Novel treatments, such as prostanoids or endothelin receptor antagonists, have been introduced for various forms of pulmonary arterial hypertension, but the long-term effects of these treatments on portopulmonary hypertension (PPHT) are unknown.

In a retrospective analysis, the present authors assessed the safety and efficacy of inhaled iloprost, a prostacyclin analogue, and bosentan, an endothelin receptor antagonist, in patients with PPHT. In total, 31 consecutive patients with Child class A or B cirrhosis and severe PPHT were treated for up to 3 yrs with either inhaled iloprost (n = 13) or bosentan (n = 18), and the effects on exercise capacity, haemodynamics and survival were evaluated.

In the iloprost group, the survival rates at 1, 2 and 3 yrs were 77, 62 and 46%, respectively. In the bosentan group, the respective survival rates were 94, 89 and 89%. Event-free survival rates,i.e.survival without transplantation, right heart failure or clinical worsening requiring the introduction of a new treatment for pulmonary hypertension, was also significantly better in the bosentan group. Bosentan had significantly better effects than inhaled iloprost on exercise capacity, as determined by the 6-min walk test, as well as on haemodynamics. Both treatments proved to be safe, especially in regards of liver function.

In the present series of patients with well-preserved liver function and severe portopulmonary hypertension, treatment with both inhaled iloprost and bosentan appeared to be safe. Patients treated with bosentan had higher survival rates, but prospective controlled studies are required to confirm these findings.
Estimating pulmonary artery pressures by echocardiography in patients with emphysema
Authors: Fisher M. R. , Criner G. J. , Fishman A. P. , Hassoun P. M. , Minai O. A. , Scharf S. M. , Fessler and H. E.
Published: July 2007

In patients with emphysema being evaluated for lung volume reduction surgery, Doppler echocardiography has been used to screen for pulmonary hypertension as an indicator of increased peri-operative risk.

To determine the accuracy of this test, the present authors compared the results of right heart catheterisations and Doppler echocardiograms in 163 patients participating in the cardiovascular substudy of the National Emphysema Treatment Trial. Substudy patients had both catheterisation and Doppler echocardiography performed before and after randomisation.

In 74 paired catheterisations and echocardiograms carried out on 63 patients, the mean values of invasively measured pulmonary artery systolic pressures and the estimated right ventricular systolic pressures were similar. However, using the World Health Organization's definitions of pulmonary hypertension, echocardiography had a sensitivity of 60%, specificity of 74%, positive predictive value of 68% and a negative predictive value of 67% compared with the invasive measurement. Bland–Altman analysis revealed a bias of 0.37 kPa with 95% limits of agreement from -2.5–3.2 kPa.

In patients with severe emphysema, echocardiographic estimates of pulmonary artery pressures correlate very weakly with right heart catheterisations, and the test characteristics (e.g.sensitivity, specificity,etc.) of echocardiographic assessments are poor.
Statistical Evaluation of Promoted Ignition Test Data
Authors: Suvorovs Terese , Ward Nicholas R. , Steinberg Theodore A. , Wilson Richard
Published: July 2007

This paper presents an analysis of promoted ignition test data based on formal statistical techniques. Logistic regression is identified as an appropriate method for modeling binary burn–no-burn test data. Logistic regression is applied to the data sets from promoted ignition testing of two Hastelloy® alloys, C-276 and G-3, previously published by Zawierucha et al., ASTM STP 1111, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 1991, pp. 270–287. The logistic regression model is used to predict the burn probability over a range of pressures in the nonflammable and flammable domains, and was shown to fit the raw data well. Confidence intervals for the model are also determined, allowing the uncertainty associated with the predicted burn probabilities to be quantified. The relationship between the amount of test data available and confidence levels is discussed, and recommendations are made to improve the current standard test methodology. In particular, more repeated tests are required at all pressure levels considered, and tests are also required at pressures in the nonflammable domain (in addition to the flammable domain). It is shown that there is a low level of statistical confidence associated with the definition of threshold pressure under the current methodology. It is concluded that the use of the logistic regression model is beneficial since it allows for the quantification of burn probabilities and confidence levels, which enables the definition of threshold pressure to be related to a critical burn probability threshold.
The Neoliberal Challenge
Authors: Piven Frances Fox
Published: July 2007

Neoliberalism is not only an attack on public policies that have softened the effects of capitalism. It is also an assault on the basic tenets of the sociological enterprise.
Why is the U.S. Fighting in Iraq?
Authors: Block Fred
Published: July 2007

Was the Bush administration solving international problems-or domestic ones?
Those Dirty Words
Authors: Green Harry
Published: July 2007

For Secrets are edged tools, and must be kept from children and from fools.—Jon Dryden
Preoperative diagnosis of insulinoma: low body mass index, young age, and female gender are associated with negative imaging by endoscopic ultrasound
Authors: Kann P H , Ivan D , Pfützner A , Forst Th , Langer P , Schaefer S
Published: July 2007

Objective: Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a highly reliable procedure to localize insulinomas preoperatively. It has been considered to be important in planning surgical strategy, especially considering a minimal invasive approach. However, even under ideal conditions experienced examiners miss about 10–20% of insulinomas by EUS imaging.

Design and methods: This retrospective study aimed to identify factors associated with negative EUS imaging. Twenty-nine consecutive patients (24 benign and 5 malignant) with sporadic pancreatic insulinomas confirmed by successful surgery and positive histopathology were included. All EUS examinations were performed by one single experienced examiner over a period of one decade.

Results: Three of the tumors were not detected by preoperative EUS as they were isoechoic to the surrounding healthy pancreatic tissue; 25 could be detected as hypoechoic lesions, (including all malignant tumors), and one lesion was hyperechoic. Low body mass index (P=0.053) and young age (P=0.037) were associated with negative EUS imaging. All patients with negative imaging were females. The position on the examiner’s learning curve, the diameter and location of insulinoma, and endocrine parameters (insulin concentrations and insulin–glucose ratios in the prolonged fasting test) had no influence on the success of EUS imaging.

Conclusions: Some insulinomas are missed by preoperative EUS imaging as they are completely isoechoic. A low body mass index, female gender, and young age might be risk factors for negative imaging.
Low TSH levels are not associated with osteoporosis in childhood
Authors: Papadimitriou Anastasios , Papadimitriou Dimitrios T , Papadopoulou Anna , Nicolaidou Polyxeni , Fretzayas Andreas
Published: July 2007

Introduction: A recent study on TSH receptor (TSHR) null mice suggested that skeletal loss occurring in hyperthyroidism is caused by the low TSH rather than high thyroid hormone levels. The aim of this study was to examine whether low TSH results in osteoporosis in the human.

Subjects and methods: We determined bone mineral density (BMD) and markers of bone metabolism in two male siblings aged 9.8 and 6.8 years with isolated TSH deficiency, due to a mutation of the TSH β-subunit gene. BMD was measured in the lumbar spine (L1–L4) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Laboratory investigation included the determination of serum calcium, phosphate, 25-hydroxy-vitamin D, parathyroid hormone concentrations, and urine calcium (Ca)/creatinine (Cr) ratio. Osteoblast activity was measured by serum bone alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin levels, and osteoclast activity by urine cross-linked amino-terminal, carboxy-terminal telopeptides of type I collagen and deoxypyridinoline concentrations.

Results: BMD of both patients was within the normal range for age and sex; z-scores were −0.55 and −0.23 for patients 1 and 2 respectively. Serum calcium, phosphate, urine Ca/Cr ratio, and specific markers of bone metabolism were also within normal range.

Conclusion: In childhood, chronic extremely low TSH levels, in the face of normal thyroid hormone levels, are not related to bone loss.
Reporting Health Consequences of War in Medical Journals
Authors: Greenland Philip , Lakser Oren , Lipschutz Lisa
Published: March 2024

This Viewpoint suggests that medical and public health journals should publish articles focused singularly on health without political bias when reporting on the health consequences of war.
The conservation impact of botanical drones: Documenting and collecting rare plants from vertical cliffs and other hard‐to‐reach areas
Authors: Nyberg Ben , Bairos Célia , Brimhall Marcela , Deans Susan M. , Hanser Sholeh , Heintzman Scott , Hillmann Kitalong Ann , Menezes de Sequeira Miguel , Nobert Niro , Rønsted Nina , Soaladaob Naito , Wood Kenneth R. , Williams Adam M.
Published: March 2024

A high percentage of island floras are at risk of extinction and have been reduced to relic populations, often in remote hard‐to‐reach areas. Uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS aka drones) are now being utilized to assist in the survey and collection of rare plants in inaccessible areas or vertical cliff habitats.

Here, we test the application of this technology for conservation of 23 plant taxa in three oceanic island hotspots: Hawaiʻi, Madeira and the Republic of Palau. We collect high‐resolution imagery using a small UAS to document the distribution and abundance of vascular flowering plants. Location information is then used to map and assess plant populations. Depending on the terrain, collections are completed using either traditional rope techniques or newly developed remote drone‐based collection methods.

Over the course of 6 years, we have greatly expanded our knowledge of rare and endangered species, while increasing survey efficiency and staff safety. Most importantly, this work has had a large impact on the conservation of critically endangered plants. Although using drones for botanical conservation comes with limits and challenges, we see great potential in the continued employment of these techniques wherever plants are growing on cliffs or in other hard‐to‐reach areas.
Multiscale Polyvinylidene Fluoride/Magnesium–Aluminum Layered Double Hydroxide Gel Electrolytes for Lithium Batteries
Authors: Wang Lu , Wang Qian , Chen Yongli , Zeng Linghong , Huang Xilong , Lv Wenyan
Published: March 2024

A multiscale of porous polyvinylidene fluoride–hexafluoropropylene copolymer/magnesium–aluminum layered double hydroxides (MgAl‐LDHs) composite gel polymer electrolyte is prepared by phase separation method. It is discovered that the ionic conductivity of the electrolyte reaches a maximum value of 1.36 × 10−3 S cm−1, the lithium ions’ mobility is 0.66, and the chemical performance is steady within the 4.85 V window along with the concentration of MgAl‐LDHs up to 0.4 wt% at room temperature. The density functional theory calculations show that the adsorption energy of Li+ with MgAl‐LDH is −3.59 eV and the diffusion potential barrier is 0.37 eV, which is favorable for the dissociation and transport of Li+. Moreover, the anode's initial discharge capacity at 0.1 C achieves 144 mAh g−1, keeping 84.7% of the theoretical capacity of 170 mAh g−1, and the capacity retention and the columbic efficiency maintain 92.4% and 95.7% after 100 cycles at 0.2 C, respectively, through assembling into a Li/PVP–MgAl/LiFePO4 battery.
Enhancing Tranexamic Acid Penetration through AQP‐3 Protein Triggering via ZIF‐8 Encapsulation for Melasma and Rosacea Therapy
Authors: Tang Jie , Li Yu , Hu Xuefeng , Hua Wei , Xu Haoning , Li Li , Xu Fujian
Published: March 2024

The systemic use of tranexamic acid (TA) as an oral drug can bring adverse reactions, while intradermal injection leads to pain and a risk of infection. Moreover, it is difficult for highly hydrophilic TA to penetrate the skin barrier that contains lots of hydrophobic lipid compounds, which poses enormous restrictions on its topical application. Current transdermal TA delivery strategies are suffering from low drug load rates, plus their synthesis complexity, time‐consumption, etc. adding to the difficulty of TA topical application in clinical therapeutics. To increase the penetration of TA, a novel approach using TA‐loaded ZIF‐8 (TA@ZIF‐8) is developed. The encapsulation efficiency of TA@ZIF‐8 reaches ≈25% through physical adsorption and chemical bonding of TA indicates by theoretical simulation and the improved TA penetration is elevated through activating the aquaporin‐3 (AQP‐3) protein. Additionally, in vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrate the preponderance of TA@ZIF‐8 for penetration ability and the advantages in intracellular uptake, minor cytotoxicity, and inhibition of melanogenesis and inflammatory factors. Moreover, clinical trials demonstrate the safety and efficacy of TA@ZIF‐8 in the treatment of melasma and rosacea. This work presents a potential topical application of TA, free from the safety concerns associated with systemic drug administration.
Nature‐Inspired Gelatin‐Based Adhesive Hydrogel: A Rapid and User‐Friendly Solution for Hemostatic Applications
Authors: Wang Haihua , Wang Mengxi , Wu Jingheng , Zhu Shilei , Ye Yanan , Liu Yushan , Li Ke , Li Ruyue , Zhang Yuhang , Wei Meng , Yang Xin , Meng Leixin
Published: March 2024

Conventional hemostatic agents face challenges in achieving rapid hemostasis and effective tissue repair due to limited hemostatic scenarios, suboptimal efficacy, and inadequate adhesion to wet tissues. Drawing inspiration from nature‐sourced materials, a gelatin‐based adhesive hydrogel (AOT)  is designed, easily prepared and quick to form, driven by Schiff base and multiple hydrogen bonds for applications in arterial and liver bleeding models. AOT exhibits exceptional adhesion to wet tissues (48.67 ± 0.16 kPa) and displays superior hemostatic properties with reduced blood loss and hemostatic time compared to other hydrogels and conventional hemostatic materials. Moreover, AOT exhibits good biocompatibility and biodegradability. In summary, this easily prepared adhesive hydrogel has the potential to supplant traditional hemostatic agents, offering a novel approach to achieve swift sealing of hemostasis and facilitate wound healing and repair in broader application scenarios, owing to its unique advantages.
High‐Color‐Rendition White QLEDs by Balancing Red, Green and Blue Centres in Eco‐Friendly ZnCuGaS:In@ZnS Quantum Dots
Authors: Jiang Jiangyuan , Zhang Shuai , Shan Qingsong , Yang Linxiang , Ren Jing , Wang Yongjin , Jeon Seokwoo , Xiang Hengyang , Zeng Haibo
Published: March 2024

White light‐emitting diodes (WLEDs) are the key components in the next‐generation lighting and display devices. The inherent toxicity of Cd/Pb‐based quantum dots (QDs) limits the further application in WLEDs. Recently, more attention is focused on eco‐friendly QDs and their WLEDs, especially the phosphor‐free WLEDs based on mono‐component, which profits from bias‐insensitive color stability. However, the imbalanced carrier distribution between red‐green‐blue luminescent centers, even the absence of a certain luminescent center, hinders their balanced and stable photoluminescence/electroluminescence (PL/EL). Here, an In3+‐doped strategy in Zn‐Cu‐Ga‐S@ZnS QDs is first proposed, and the balanced carrier distribution is realized by non‐equivalent substitution and In3+ doping concentration modulation. The alleviation of the green emitter by the In3+‐related red emitter and the compensation of blue emitter by the Zn‐related electronic states contribute to the balanced red‐green‐blue emitting with high PL quantum yield (PLQY) of 95.3% and long lifetime (T90) of over 1100 h in atmospheric conditions. Thus, the In3+‐doped WLEDs can achieve exceedingly slight proportional variations between red‐green‐blue EL intensity over time (∆CIE = (0.007, 0.009)), and high champion CRI of 94.9. This study proposes a single‐component QD with balanced and stable red‐green‐blue PL/EL spectrum, meeting the requirements of lighting and display.
Recent Advances in Material Technology for Leukemia Treatments
Authors: Li Feng , Wang Huaiji , Ye Tong , Guo Peilin , Lin Xiaoyun , Hu Yuxing , Wei Wei , Wang Shuang , Ma Guanghui
Published: March 2024

Leukemia is a widespread hematological malignancy characterized by an elevated white blood cell count in both the blood and the bone marrow. Despite notable advancements in leukemia intervention in the clinic, a large proportion of patients, especially acute leukemia patients, fail to achieve long‐term remission or complete remission following treatment. Therefore, leukemia therapy necessitates optimization to meet the treatment requirements. In recent years, a multitude of materials have undergone rigorous study to serve as delivery vectors or direct intervention agents to bolster the effectiveness of leukemia therapy. These materials include liposomes, protein‐based materials, polymeric materials, cell‐derived materials, and inorganic materials. They possess unique characteristics and are applied in a broad array of therapeutic modalities, including chemotherapy, gene therapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and other evolving treatments. Here, an overview of these materials is presented, describing their physicochemical properties, their role in leukemia treatment, and the challenges they face in the context of clinical translation. This review inspires researchers to further develop various materials that can be used to augment the efficacy of multiple therapeutic modalities for novel applications in leukemia treatment.
Azvudine for the Treatment of COVID‐19 in Pre‐Existing Cardiovascular Diseases: A Single‐Center, Real‐World Experience
Authors: Wu Liu , He Zhong‐Han , Huang Ling , Guo Xin , Li Xu‐Yong , Zhang Hong‐Da , Chen Man‐Hua
Published: March 2024

COVID‐19 can lead to adverse outcomes in patients with pre‐existing diseases. Azvudine has been approved for treating COVID‐19 in China, but the real‐world data is limited. It is aimed to investigate the efficacy of Azvudine in patients with COVID‐19 and pre‐existing cardiovascular diseases. Patients with confirmed COVID‐19 and pre‐existing cardiovascular diseases are retrospectively enrolled. The primary outcome is all‐cause death during hospitalization. Overall, 351 patients are included, with a median age of 74 years, and 44% are female. 212 (60.6%) patients are severe cases. Azvudine is used in 106 (30.2%) patients and not in 245 (69.8%). 72 patients died during hospitalization. After multivariate adjustment, patients who received Azvudine a lower risk of all‐cause death (hazard ratio: 0.431; 95% confidence interval: 0.252–0.738; p = 0.002) than controls. Azvudine therapy is also associated with lower risks of shock and acute kidney injury. For sensitivity analysis in the propensity score‐matched cohort (n = 90 for each group), there is also a significant difference in all‐cause death between the two groups (hazard ratio: 0.189; 95% confidence interval: 0.071–0.498; p < 0.001). This study indicated that Azvudine therapy is associated with better outcomes in COVID‐19 patients with pre‐existing cardiovascular diseases.
Enhanced CO2 Electroreduction to Multi‐Carbon Products on Copper via Plasma Fluorination
Authors: Zhou Ziqian , Hu Xiaosong , Li Jiye , Xie Haijiao , Wen Liaoyong
Published: March 2024

The electroreduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) to multi‐carbon (C2+) compounds offers a viable approach for the up‐conversion of greenhouse gases into valuable fuels and feedstocks. Nevertheless, current industrial applications face limitations due to unsatisfactory conversion efficiency and high overpotential. Herein, a facile and scalable plasma fluorination method is reported. Concurrently, self‐evolution during CO2 electroreduction is employed to control the active sites of Cu catalysts. The copper catalyst modified with fluorine exhibits an impressive C2+ Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 81.8% at a low potential of −0.56 V (vs a reversible hydrogen electrode) in an alkaline flow cell. The presence of modified fluorine leads to the exposure and stabilization of high‐activity Cu+ species, enhancing the adsorption of *CO intermediates and the generation of *CHO, facilitating the subsequent dimerization. This results in a notably improved conversion efficiency of 13.1% and a significant reduction in the overpotential (≈100 mV) for the C2+ products. Furthermore, a superior C2+ FE of 81.6% at 250 mA cm−2, coupled with an energy efficiency of 31.0%, can be achieved in a two‐electrode membrane electrode assembly electrolyzer utilizing the fluorine‐modified copper catalyst. The strategy provides novel insights into the controllable electronic modification and surface reconstruction of electrocatalysts with practical potential.
Clinicopathological correlation of cerebrospinal fluid alpha‐synuclein seed amplification assay in a behavioral neurology autopsy cohort
Authors: Samudra Niyatee , Fischer D. Luke , Lenio Steven , Lario Lago Argentina , Ljubenkov Peter A. , Rojas Julio C. , Seeley William W. , Spina Salvatore , Staffaroni Adam M. , Tablante Jonathan , Wekselman Fattin , Lamoureux Jennifer , Concha‐Marambio Luis , Grinberg Lea T. , Boxer Adam L. , VandeVrede Lawren
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION

Lewy body disease (LBD) is a common primary or co‐pathology in neurodegenerative syndromes. An alpha‐synuclein seed amplification assay (αSyn‐SAA) is clinically available, but clinical performance, especially lower sensitivity in amygdala‐predominant cases, is not well understood.

METHODS

Antemortem CSF from neuropathology‐confirmed LBD cases was tested with αSyn‐SAA (N = 56). Diagnostic performance and clinicopathological correlations were examined.

RESULTS

Similar to prior reports, sensitivity was 100% for diffuse and transitional LBD (9/9), and overall specificity was 96.3% (26/27). Sensitivity was lower in amygdala‐predominant (6/14, 42.8%) and brainstem‐predominant LBD (1/6, 16.7%), but early spread outside these regions (without meeting criteria for higher stage) was more common in αSyn‐SAA‐positive cases (6/7, 85.7%) than negative (2/13, 15.4%).

DISCUSSION

In this behavioral neurology cohort, αSyn‐SAA had excellent diagnostic performance for cortical LBD. In amygdala‐ and brainstem‐predominant cases, sensitivity was lower, but positivity was associated with anatomical spread, suggesting αSyn‐SAA detects early LBD progression in these cohorts.

Highlights

A cerebrospinal fluid alpha‐synuclein assay detects cortical LBD with high sensitivity/specificity.

Positivity in prodromal stages of LBD was associated with early cortical spread.

The assay provides precision diagnosis of LBD that could support clinical trials.

The assay can also identify LBD co‐pathology, which may impact treatment responses.
Analysis on the ultraviolet curing process of resin‐based glass fiber composites based on finite element mesoscale model
Authors: Jiang Yue , Xu Jiazhong , Liu Meijun , Fu Tianyu
Published: March 2024

The resin curing process triggered by ultraviolet radiation possesses numerous advantages, including rapid speed, low cost, and minimal environmental impact. Due to the hindrance of light propagation by the medium, uneven curing or incomplete curing at the bottom may occur frequently, particularly when the material thickness is excessive. To address these issues and delve into the regularities of the light‐curing process, this study employed a modeling approach that separately represents fiber bundles and the resin matrix to construct a mesoscopic model of the resin‐based glass fiber‐reinforced composite material glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP). Based on the models of light propagation, light‐curing kinetics, and heat conduction, a multiphysics field decoupling model is established to simulate the light‐curing process of GFRP. Using this model, the temporal and spatial variations of the internal light field, degree of curing field, and temperature field within GFRP during the curing process are simulated. The mechanistic reasons for these variations are analyzed. Finally, in conjunction with the regular analysis based on the macroscopic model, the accuracy of the model and the obtained regularities are validated through experiments. This provides an effective analytical method for the study of light‐curing in resin‐based fiber‐reinforced composite materials.
A simple method for preparing flame retardancy EVA/POE‐g‐MAH composites with high tensile strength by modified magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide
Authors: Ji Jitao , Ni Donghua , Shi Yanqin , Yang Zhaoyu , Ma Meng , Zhu Shufan , Wang Xu
Published: March 2024

For obtaining flame retardant, oil resistance, high strength, and softness EVA/POE‐g‐MAH composites for cables, multifunctional modified magnesium hydroxide (MH‐KH570), and aluminum hydroxide (ATH‐KH570) were prepared by grafting γ‐(methacryloyloxy) propyltrimethoxysilane (KH570) onto the surface of MH and ATH. The successful grafting was confirmed by Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometer, scanning electron microscope, thermogravimetric analysis, and contact angle test. The hydrophobicity of MH and ATH was enhanced and the decompose time was extended, called the “sustained release” effect. The ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA)/maleic anhydride grafted polyolefin elastomer (POE‐g‐MAH) composites containing 62.5 wt% the mixture of MH‐KH570 and ATH‐KH570 in a 1:1 mass ratio was prepared. The vertical combustion test, limited oxygen index (LOI), and cone calorimetry proved the flame retardancy performance of the EVA/POE‐g‐MAH composites were enhanced, because of the homogeneous dispersion and the “sustained release” effect of MH‐KH570 and ATH‐KH570. The vertical combustion and LOI reached V‐0 and 38.1%. Importantly, the “crosslinking” effect of MH‐KH570 and ATH‐KH570 further enhanced the tensile strength after the composites crosslinked, and reached 19.9 MPa. In a word, a simple method for preparing flame retardant EVA/POE‐g‐MAH composites with high tensile strength was provided.
Tensions in teaching balanced controversial history: Competing voices within a student teacher in Northern Ireland
Authors: Pace Judith L.
Published: March 2024

History education that deals with the controversial and sensitive past is a vehicle for peacemaking in conflict‐affected societies. However, its success is dependent on teachers taking risks to challenge entrenched ‘us versus them’ views of history. How does a student teacher in Northern Ireland grapple with risk‐taking when learning to teach controversial history? What tensions are involved in bringing a different perspective into the classroom that challenges identity‐based understandings and emotions? This paper analyses interview data from a study on the preparation of preservice teachers for teaching controversial issues. It uses dialogical self theory to examine competing voices that animate a student teacher's practice and reveal how her interpretation of pedagogical lessons from university coursework and professional norms bump up against her identity, family loyalty and related emotions. Her conflict brings into relief tensions of learning to teach controversial history in divided societies.
Mismatch repair protein deficiency and its implications on distant metastasis in colorectal cancer: A comprehensive analysis
Authors: Fan Chuanwen , Fang Chao , Wang Wei , Lv Zhaoying , Zhang Xueli , Long Feiwu , Jiang Zongze , Li Yuan , Zhang Hong , Zhou Zong‐Guang , Wang Cun , Sun Xiao‐Feng
Published: March 2024

Background

While previous studies have indicated variability in distant metastatic potential among different mismatch repair (MMR) states in colorectal cancer (CRC), their findings remain inconclusive, especially considering potential differences across various ethnic backgrounds. Furthermore, the gene regulatory networks and the underlying mechanisms responsible for these variances in metastatic potential across MMR states have yet to be elucidated.

Methods

We collected 2058 consecutive primary CRC samples from the South West of China and assessed the expression of MMR proteins (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2) using immunohistochemistry. To explore the inconsistencies between different MMR statuses and recurrence, we performed a meta‐analysis. To delve deeper, we employed Weighted Gene Co‐expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), ClueGo, and iRegulon, pinpointing gene expression networks and key regulatory molecules linked to metastasis and recurrence in CRC. Lastly, both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were applied to determine the impact of core regulatory molecules on metastasis.

Results

Of the samples, 8.2% displayed deficient MMR (dMMR), with losses of MLH1 and PSM2 observed in 40.8% and 63.9%, respectively. A unique 24.3% isolated loss of PMS2 without concurrent metastasis was identified, a result that diverges from established literature. Additionally, our meta‐analysis further solidifies the reduced recurrence likelihood in dMMR CRC samples compared to proficient MMR (pMMR). Two gene expression networks tied to distant metastasis and recurrence were identified, with a majority of metastasis‐related genes located on chromosomes 8 and 18. An IRF1 positive feedback loop was discerned in the metastasis‐related network, and IRF1 was identified as a predictive marker for both recurrence‐free and distant metastasis‐free survival across multiple datasets.

Conclusion

Geographical and ethnic factors might influence peculiarities in MMR protein loss. Our findings also highlight new gene expression networks and crucial regulatory molecules in CRC metastasis, enhancing our comprehension of the mechanisms driving distant metastasis.
Effect of galectin‐1 on prognosis and responsiveness of immune checkpoint plus tyrosine kinase inhibition in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Jiajun , Zhang Sihong , Wang Ying , Zhu Yanjun , Xu Xianglai , Guo Jianming
Published: March 2024

Background

In renal cell carcinoma (RCC), no clinically available biomarker has been utilized for checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy (IO) + tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) combinations. Galectin‐1 overexpression is found in tumors, with potential immune‐regulating roles.

Methods

RNA‐sequencing was performed in two cohorts of RCC treated with IO/TKI combination therapy (ZS‐MRCC, JAVELIN‐101). Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry were performed to investigate immune cell infiltration and function in the tumor microenvironment of RCC. The RECIST criteria were used to define response and progression‐free survival (PFS).

Results

Galectin‐1 expression was elevated in RCC with higher stage (p < 0.001) and grade (p < 0.001). Galectin‐1 expression was also elevated in non‐responders of IO/TKI therapy (p = 0.047). High galectin‐1 was related with shorter PFS in both ZS‐MRCC cohort (p = 0.036) and JAVELIN‐101 cohort (p = 0.005). Multivariate Cox analysis defined galectin‐1 as an independent factor for PFS (HR 2.505; 95% CI 1.116–5.622; p = 0.026). In the tumor microenvironment, high galectin‐1 was related with decreased GZMB+CD8+ T cells (Speraman's ρ = −0.31, p = 0.05), and increased PD1 + CD8+ T cells (Speraman's ρ = 0.40, p = 0.01). Besides, elevated number of regulatory T cells (p = 0.039) and fibroblasts (p = 0.011) was also found in high galectin‐1 tumors. Finally, a random‐forest score (RFscore) was built for predicting IO/TKI benefit. IO/TKI therapy showed benefit only in low‐RFscore patients (HR 0.489, 95% CI 0.358–0.669, p < 0.001), rather than high‐RFscore patients (HR 0.875, 95% CI 0.658–1.163, p = 0.357).

Conclusions

High galectin‐1 indicated therapeutic resistance and shorter PFS of IO/TKI therapy. High galectin‐1 also indicated CD8+ T cell dysfunction. High galectin‐1 could be applied for patient selection of IO/TKI therapy in RCC.