bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of Surfactant Protein B Gene Expression in Bone Marrow-Derived Cells
Authors: Field-Corbett Ciara , English Karen , O'Dea Shirley
Published: December 2008

While investigating the differentiation potential of bone marrow-derived cells, we previously demonstrated upregulated expression of the lung-related surfactant protein B (SP-B) gene in hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) when they were cocultured with macerated lung tissue. During coculture, HPCs differentiated toward a dendritic-like myeloid cell phenotype (hematopoietic progenitor cell-derived dendritic-like cells [HPC-DCs]). However, immature dendritic cells (iDCs) cocultured under identical conditions did not express SP-B mRNA before or after coculture. We have now further examined the regulation of SP-B expression in HPC-DCs and iDCs. Of the transcription factors involved in SP-B gene expression, neither cell type expressed TTF-1, HNF3α, or HNF3β, but both cell types expressed Sp1 and Sp3. Sp1 binding to the SP-B promoter was investigated in these cells. Three novel Sp1 binding motifs were identified in the mouse SP-B promoter. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation, it was demonstrated that Sp1 was bound to all three sites in HPC-DCs after coculture with lung tissue, but not in iDCs. We hypothesized that although genes from multiple lineages may be active in HPCs, gene silencing events, such as methylation, may subsequently occur to suppress expression of these genes in more mature myeloid cells, such as iDCs. Treatment with the demethylating agent 5-azacytidine resulted in expression of the SP-B gene in iDCs. These data indicate that tissue-specific transcription factors are not required to express the lung-related gene SP-B in hematopoietic progenitor cells. Furthermore, silencing events, such as methylation, may occur to suppress lung-related gene expression as progenitor cells become committed toward more mature hematopoietic cell phenotypes.
Lineage-Negative Bone Marrow Cells Protect Against Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Alexandre Cristianne Silva , Volpini Rildo Aparecido , Shimizu Maria Heloísa , Sanches Talita Rojas , Semedo Patricia , di Jura Vera Lúcia , Câmara Niels Olsen , Seguro Antonio Carlos , Andrade Lúcia
Published: December 2008

Progressive renal failure continues to be a challenge. The use of bone marrow cells represents a means of meeting that challenge. We used lineage-negative (Lin−) cells to test the hypothesis that Lin− cell treatment decreases renal injury. Syngeneic Fischer 344 rats were divided into four groups: sham (laparotomy only, untreated); Nx (five-sixth nephrectomy and untreated); NxLC1 (five-sixth nephrectomy and receiving 2 × 106 Lin− cells on postnephrectomy day 15); and NxLC3 (five-sixth nephrectomy and receiving 2 × 106 Lin− cells on postnephrectomy days 15, 30, and 45). On postoperative day 16, renal mRNA expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and IL-6 was lower in NxLC rats than in Nx rats. On postnephrectomy day 60, NxLC rats presented less proteinuria, glomerulosclerosis, anemia, renal infiltration of immune cells, and protein expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, as well as decreased interstitial area. Immunostaining for proliferating cell nuclear antigen showed that, in comparison with sham rats, Nx rats presented greater cell proliferation, whereas NxLC1 rats and NxLC3 rats presented less cell proliferation than did Nx rats. Protein expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 and of vascular endothelial growth factor increased after nephrectomy and decreased after Lin− cell treatment. On postnephrectomy day 120, renal function (inulin clearance) was significantly better in Lin− cell-treated rats than in untreated rats. Lin− cell treatment significantly improved survival. These data suggest that Lin− cell treatment protects against chronic renal failure.
Reciprocal Interactions Between Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells and γδ T Cells Or Invariant Natural Killer T Cells
Authors: Prigione Ignazia , Benvenuto Federica , Bocca Paola , Battistini Luca , Uccelli Antonio , Pistoia Vito
Published: December 2008

The immunomodulatory activities of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) provide a rational basis for their application in the treatment of immune-mediated diseases, such as graft versus host disease and multiple sclerosis. The effects of MSCs on invariant natural killer T (iNKT) and γδ T cells, both involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, are unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of MSCs on in vitro expansion of these unconventional T-cell populations. MSCs inhibited iNKT (Vα24+Vβ11+) and γδ T (Vδ2+) cell expansion from peripheral blood mononuclear cells in both cell-to-cell contact and transwell systems. Such inhibition was partially counteracted by indomethacin, a prostaglandin E2 inhibitor. Block of indoleamine 2,3-deoxygenase and transforming growth factor β1 did not affect Vα24+Vβ11+ and Vδ2+ cell expansion. MSCs inhibited interferon-γ production by activated Vα24+Vβ11+ and impaired CD3-mediated proliferation of activated Vα24+Vβ11+ and Vδ2+ T cells, without affecting their cytotoxic potential. MSCs did not inhibit antigen processing/presentation by activated Vδ2+ T cells to CD4+ T cells. In contrast, MSCs were lysed by activated Vδ2+ T cells through a T-cell receptor-dependent mechanism. These results are translationally relevant in view of the increasing interest in MSC-based therapy of autoimmune diseases.
Tumor Immunotherapy Using Gene-Modified Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Loaded into Synthetic Extracellular Matrix Scaffolds
Authors: Compte Marta , Cuesta Ángel M. , Sánchez-Martín David , Alonso-Camino Vanesa , Vicario José Luís , Sanz Laura , Álvarez-Vallina Luís
Published: December 2008

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are appealing as gene therapy cell vehicles given their ease of expansion and transduction. However, MSCs exhibit immunomodulatory and proangiogenic properties that may pose a risk in their use in anticancer therapy. For this reason, we looked for a strategy to confine MSCs to a determined location, compatible with a clinical application. Human MSCs genetically modified to express luciferase (MSCluc), seeded in a synthetic extracellular matrix (sECM) scaffold (sentinel scaffold) and injected subcutaneously in immunodeficient mice, persisted for more than 40 days, as assessed by bioluminescence imaging in vivo. MSCs modified to express a bispecific α-carcinoembryonic antigen (αCEA)/αCD3 diabody (MSCdAb) and seeded in an sECM scaffold (therapeutic scaffolds) supported the release of functional diabody into the bloodstream at detectable levels for at least 6 weeks after implantation. Furthermore, when therapeutic scaffolds were implanted into CEA-positive human colon cancer xenograft-bearing mice and human T lymphocytes were subsequently transferred, circulating αCEA/αCD3 diabody activated T cells and promoted tumor cell lysis. Reduction of tumor growth in MSCdAb-treated mice was statistically significant compared with animals that only received MSCluc. In summary, we report here for the first time that human MSCs genetically engineered to secrete a bispecific diabody, seeded in an sECM scaffold and implanted in a location distant from the primary tumor, induce an effective antitumor response and tumor regression.
“One Day I Might Find Myself HIV-Positive like Her”: Audience Involvement and Identification with Role Models in an Entertainment-Education Radio Drama in Botswana
Authors: Lovell Camille Collins , Pappas-DeLuca Katina A. , Kuhlmann Anne K. Sebert , Koppenhaver Todd , Kong Sandra , Mooki Maungo , Galavotti Christine
Published: December 2008

Entertainment-education programs promote health and development goals throughout the world. This study looks specifically at a radio serial drama designed to provide behavioral role models for HIV prevention and reproductive health in Botswana as part of the behavior-change strategy, Modeling and Reinforcement to Combat HIV/AIDS (MARCH). The purpose of this qualitative study is to elucidate regular listeners' involvement and identification with three different types of fictional characters in the drama. Regular listeners were interviewed using a semi-structured guide; 31 interviews were analyzed to assess respondents' reactions to three female characters. The findings suggest that characters designed to be “negative,” “positive,” and “transitional” (i.e., moving from negative to positive) role models were generally perceived as such and that the type of behavior modeled influenced whether a character was perceived to be transitional or positive. Audience members discussed the implications of specific behaviors by contrasting the different character types. Although characters modeled behaviors within distinct but interrelated storylines, the respondents spontaneously compared characters' ways of confronting similar dilemmas across storylines, suggesting that listeners perceived the drama as a unified whole rather than as a series of parallel stories. The use of more than one transitional character for each behavioral objective might be beneficial for improving audience identification with agents of behavior change by providing several models to which the audience can relate.
Clean Hands: Prevention of Typhoid Fever in Rural Communities in Egypt
Authors: Lohiniva Anna L. , Saeed Mohamed , El-Sayeed Nasr , Talaat Maha
Published: December 2008

Typhoid fever is a serious public health problem in Egypt. Effective prevention strategies include the promotion of handwashing. This study explores factors that influence handwashing practices in the Egyptian setting and makes recommendations on how to use this information in a handwashing campaign. In addition to key informant interviews, 16 focus group discussions and 21 in-depth interviews were carried out with female respondents in three different rural sites. The data was analyzed by using content analysis technique. The findings showed that the concept of dirt ( microbaat and talaus) influences hygiene behavior as it relates to the outside (i.e., real and visible things). The respondents have low risk perceptions related to typhoid fever and they do not conceptualize long disease transmission chains. The scarcity of water and problems with disposal of waste water hinder handwashing. These findings were incorporated into a pilot campaign to promote handwashing using strategies that included the visualization of germs in critical areas during critical times, discussions of germ theory, and encouragement to solve environmental and infrastructural constraints that hinder handwashing practices at the household level.
How Basic Beliefs about Human Life Relate to Ethical Judgments about Induced Abortion
Authors: Cernada George P. , Cernada Eleanor Ching-Ching
Published: December 2008

This survey explores family planning field workers' basic beliefs and value assessments related to a new human life and their relationship to their verbal statements of ethical judgments about induced abortion under varying circumstances in Taiwan. It also relates these beliefs to stated experience of abortion referrals. Implications for education and research with application to other countries and international social issues are discussed.
Protein Kinase A Regulatory Subunits in Human Adipose Tissue
Authors: Mantovani Giovanna , Bondioni Sara , Alberti Luisella , Gilardini Luisa , Invitti Cecilia , Corbetta Sabrina , Zappa Marco A. , Ferrero Stefano , Lania Andrea G. , Bosari Silvano , Beck-Peccoz Paolo , Spada Anna
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE—In human adipocytes, the cAMP-dependent pathway mediates signals originating from β-adrenergic activation, thus playing a key role in the regulation of important metabolic processes, i.e., lipolysis and thermogenesis. Cyclic AMP effects are mainly mediated by protein kinase A (PKA), whose R2B regulatory isoform is the most expressed in mouse adipose tissue, where it protects against diet-induced obesity and fatty liver development. The aim of the study was to investigate possible differences in R2B expression, PKA activity, and lipolysis in adipose tissues from obese and nonobese subjects.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—The expression of the different PKA regulatory subunits was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and real-time PCR in subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue samples from 20 nonobese and 67 obese patients. PKA activity and glycerol release were evaluated in total protein extract and adipocytes isolated from fresh tissue samples, respectively.

RESULTS—Expression techniques showed that R2B was the most abundant regulatory protein, both at mRNA and protein level. Interestingly, R2B mRNA levels were significantly lower in both subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissues from obese than nonobese patients and negatively correlated with BMI, waist circumference, insulin levels, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance. Moreover, both basal and stimulated PKA activity and glycerol release were significantly lower in visceral adipose tissue from obese patients then nonobese subjects.

CONCLUSIONS—Our results first indicate that, in human adipose tissue, there are important BMI-related differences in R2B expression and PKA activation, which might be included among the multiple determinants involved in the different lipolytic response to β-adrenergic activation in obesity.
Pension Provision and Retirement Saving: Lessons from the United Kingdom
Authors: Disney Richard , Emmerson Carl , Wakefield Matthew
Published: December 2008

We describe the trajectory of pension reform in the United Kingdom, which focuses on restraining the cost of the public program as the population ages while maintaining adequate income security for low-income households in retirement. Methods for achieving these aims have been to target public benefits to low- income households, to permit individuals to opt out of the second tier of the public program into private retirement accounts, and to offer tax incentives to encourage additional private retirement saving. Frequent program reforms raise concerns as to whether households can make reasonable private saving provision in light of the growing complexity and potential shortcomings of individual decision-making. This paper sheds some light on these issues.
The Shift from DB to DC Coverage: A Reflection on the Issues
Authors: Baldwin Bob
Published: December 2008

This paper takes as its point of departure the shift in workplace pension coverage from defined-benefit (DB) pension plans to defined-contribution (DC) pension plans. The central concern of the paper is to identify the public policy issues that should be addressed to help members of DC pension plans use these vehicles more effectively. Measures that might enhance the predictability of DC outcomes, lower administrative costs, or facilitate decision-making receive particular attention. Unresolved research issues related to the topic and gaps in available data are also noted.
Underfunding of Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Benefit Guarantee Insurance: An Overview of Theory and Evidence
Authors: Jametti Mario
Published: December 2008

I review the theoretical literature on defined-benefit pension plans, particularly focusing on the issue of plan underfunding and benefit guarantee insurance schemes. Under reasonable assumptions underfunding can be an equilibrium outcome even in the absence of benefit insurance. The introduction of benefit guarantee funds was a reaction to the problem of underfunding, and I summarize the ensuing problems of moral hazard and adverse selection. I then discuss the still rather small body of empirical research on the subject and propose directions for future research.
Influence of the General Character of Horizontal Alignment on Operating Speed of Two-Lane Rural Roads
Authors: Perco Paolo
Published: December 2008

Since the speed on curves and tangents depends not only on the characteristics of the individual alignment elements but also on the general character of the road alignment, this study developed a speed prediction model for two-lane rural roads that also considers the influence of this character. In particular, the model includes the influence that horizontal alignment has on driver speed behavior through the use of the curvature change rate index. This index is used to divide the road into sections with relatively uniform horizontal alignment and to estimate the desired speed that represents the maximum operating speed that can be achieved and maintained along each road section. Moreover, the model estimates the operating speed on curves using four equations. Each equation refers to a different curvature change rate range and is used for curves that belong to a road section that has the curvature change rate that falls within this range. The use of the curvature change rate in the speed prediction model makes it possible to effectively apply the model to roads with very different alignments, since the predicted speeds on tangents and on curves are, in any case, consistent with the general character of these alignments. The significant differences between the speeds estimated using this model, and the speeds estimated using the analogous model that was developed without considering the influence of the horizontal alignment, underscore the importance of including this influence in the operating speed prediction models used for design consistency evaluations.
Level-of-Safety Service for Safety Performance Evaluation of Highway Intersections
Authors: Lu Jian , Pan Fuquan , Xiang Qiaojun
Published: December 2008

Safety evaluation for highway safety performance is generally based on traffic crash analysis or traffic conflict analysis. However, in China, it is quite difficult and time-consuming to obtain historical crash data or traffic conflict data, mainly due to the lack of routine procedures and strict requirements for traffic data management. A research project was performed to develop a procedure for highway intersection safety performance evaluation with limited requirements for field crash and traffic data. The concept of level-of-safety service was introduced, and corresponding models were developed. Variables included in the models for level-of-safety service were intersection geometrics, traffic conditions, and roadway and environmental conditions. Conceptually, evaluation models under ideal conditions are based only on intersection conflict points (not number of conflicts) between motorized traffic, motorized traffic and nonmotorized traffic, and motorized traffic and pedestrians. Variables related to geometrics and traffic control conditions under prevailing conditions were used to adjust the level-of-safety service under ideal conditions so that level-of-safety service under prevailing conditions could be obtained. Field data were collected and a questionnaire survey was conducted to obtain model parameters, and expert panel field evaluations were performed to validate performance of these models. Similar to traffic level of service, six levels (A to F) were used to evaluate intersection safety performance, with Level A indicating the best safety service and Level F indicating failure of safety performance of the intersection.
Safety Evaluation of Installing Center Two-Way Left-Turn Lanes on Two-Lane Roads
Authors: Lyon Craig , Persaud Bhagwant , Lefler Nancy , Carter Daniel , Eccles Kimberly A.
Published: December 2008

FHWA organized a pooled fund study of 26 states to evaluate low-cost safety strategies as part of its strategic highway safety effort. One of the strategies chosen to be evaluated for this study was the installation of center two-way left-turn lanes (TWLTLs) on two-lane roads. Geometric, traffic, and crash data were obtained for 78 sites (21.3 mi) in North Carolina, 10 sites (6.0 mi) in Illinois, 31 sites (6.8 mi) in California, and 25 sites (13.2 mi) in Arkansas. Empirical Bayes methods were incorporated in a before–after analysis to determine the safety effectiveness of installing the TWLTLs. There was a statistically significant reduction in total and rear-end crashes in each of four states whose installations were evaluated. Rural installations were found to be more effective in reducing crashes than were urban installations in each of the four states. The general conclusion of this research is that TWLTLs can be a cost-effective treatment for two-lane rural locations, especially those with a high frequency of rear-end collisions involving a lead vehicle desiring to make a left turn.
Conservative management of 386 cases of unilateral vestibular schwannoma: tumor growth and consequences for treatment
Authors: Bakkouri Wissame El , Kania Romain E. , Guichard Jean-Pierre , Lot Guillaume , Herman Philippe , Huy Patrice Tran Ba
Published: December 2008

Object

The object of this study was to evaluate the natural history, pattern, and occurrence of tumor growth and its consequences for treatment of small-sized vestibular schwannomas (VSs).

Methods

From 1990 to 2005, 386 patients underwent conservative management for VS because of the following: age > 60 years, poor health/medical risks, risk of deterioration of good hearing, small tumor size, minimal or no incapacitating symptoms, and/or patient preference. Tumor size was measured by MR imaging according to the guidelines of the Committee on Hearing and Equilibrium. The first MR imaging study was performed 1 year after diagnosis, and subsequent imaging was performed yearly or every 2 years depending on the appearance of new symptoms, tumor growth, or both.

Results

Sixty-one patients were lost to follow-up the first year after presentation. Of the 325 patients for whom 1-year follow-up data were available, 39 showed tumor growth ≥ 3 mm. Conservative management was discontinued for these 39 patients. The patients who returned for follow-up were evaluated at 1- or 2-year intervals depending on tumor growth. The authors extrapolated to obtain data for 2-year intervals, yielding data for 160, 56, 21, and 8 patients at 3, 5, 7, and 9 years after initial presentation, respectively. The overall mean tumor growth rate (±standard deviation) was 1.15 ± 2.4 mm/year. This rate was estimated by pooling all values of tumor growth that had been determined for all patients and dividing by the total number of “events,” with each assessment constituting an event. In 58.6% of patients, the annual tumor growth rate was < 1 mm/year; in 29.2%, 1–3 mm/year; and in 12.2%, ≥ 3 mm/ year. The growth rates of intrameatal (1.02 ± 1.8 mm/year) and extrameatal (1.40 ± 3.1 mm/year) tumors did not differ significantly. No significant association was found between tumor growth rate and sex, age, initial hearing status, or initial tumor grade. Delay in diagnosis was the only significant factor associated with tumor growth rate. During follow-up, conservative management was discontinued for 77 (23.7%) of the 325 patients for whom at least 12-month follow-up data were available; surgery was performed in 60 (77.9%) and radiation therapy in 17 (22.1%).

Conclusions

The results of this study support the role of a conservative “wait-and-scan” policy of management for small-sized VSs because most have a slow growth rate. Long-term neuroimaging follow-up is needed even with non-growing tumors.
Accuracy of percutaneous placement of a ventriculoatrial shunt under ultrasonography guidance: a retrospective study at a single institution
Authors: Metellus Philippe , Hsu Wesley , Kharkar Siddharth , Kapoor Sumit , Scott William , Rigamonti Daniele
Published: December 2008

The authors report their experience using preoperative chest radiography and intraoperative ultrasonography for percutaneous positioning of the distal end of the catheter when placing ventriculoatrial (VA) shunts in patients with hydrocephalus. The distal portion of VA shunt catheters were percutaneously placed into the internal jugular vein with the aid of intraoperative ultrasonography in 14 consecutive adults. In all cases, the technique was easy, there were no postoperative complications, and postoperative chest radiography demonstrated good positioning of the distal catheter tip. One patient presented with a shunt infection and needed a shunt replacement. The authors therefore conclude that percutaneous placement of a VA shunt under preoperative radiographic guidance and ultrasonographic monitoring is a safe, effective, and reliable technique that is simple to learn.
Insular gliomas: the case for surgical management
Authors: Simon Matthias , Neuloh Georg , von Lehe Marec , Meyer Bernhard , Schramm Johannes
Published: December 2008

Object

Treatment for insular (paralimbic) gliomas is controversial. In this report the authors summarize their experience with microsurgical resection of insular tumors.

Methods

The authors analyzed complications, functional outcomes, and survival in a series of 101 operations performed in 94 patients between 1995 and 2005.

Results

A > 90% resection was achieved in 42%, and 70–90% tumor removal was accomplished in 51% of cases. Functional outcomes varied considerably between patient subgroups. For example, in neurologically intact patients ≤ 40 years of age with WHO Grade I–III tumors, good outcomes (Karnofsky Performance Scale Score 80–100) were seen in 91% of cases. Predictors of an unfavorable functional outcome included histological features of glioblastoma, advanced age, and a low preoperative Karnofsky Performance Scale score. One year after surgery, 76% of patients who had presented with epilepsy were seizure free or experienced only isolated, nondebilitating seizures. Surprisingly good survival rates were seen after surgery for anaplastic gliomas. The median survival for patients with anaplastic astrocytomas (WHO Grade III) was 5 years, and the 5-year survival rate for those with anaplastic oligodendroglial tumors was 80%. Independent predictors of survival included younger age, favorable histological features (WHO Grade I and oligodendroglial tumors), Yaşargil Type 5A/B tumors with frontal extensions, and more extensive resections.

Conclusions

Insular tumor surgery carries substantial complication rates. However, surprisingly similar figures have been reported in large unselected craniotomy series and also after alternative treatment regimens. In view of the oncological benefits of resective surgery, our data would therefore argue for microsurgery as the primary treatment for most patients with a presumed WHO Grade I–III tumor. Patients with glioblastomas and/or age > 60 years require a more cautious approach.
How to Study DNA and Proteins by Linear Dichroism Spectroscopy
Authors: Rodger Alison
Published: December 2008

The technique of linear dichroism (LD) is a simple absorbance technique that uses two polarised light beams. Since only oriented molecules show different absorbances for different polarisations, LD detects only oriented molecules.

In aqueous solutions, flow orientation is an attractive orientation methodology as it selects long molecules or molecular assemblies. LD thus is selective for molecules that are particularly challenging to study by more standard biophysical techniques. In this article, a brief review of the application of LD to DNA, DNA–drug systems, DNA–protein enzymatic complexes, fibrous proteins and membrane peptides and proteins is given.
Morphology and anatomy of endemic Thermopsis turcica Kit Tan, Vural & Küçüködük
Authors: Özdemir Canan , Dural Hüseyin , Ertugrul Kuddisi , Küçüködük Mustafa , Baran Pelin , Sanda M Aydin
Published: December 2008

Morphology and anatomy of an endemic plant from Turkey, Thermopsis turcica Kit Tan, Vural & Küçüködük, belonging to Fabaceae have been investigated. The species had a perennial rhizome, an erect stem and compound leaves consisting of three leaflets. Morphological and anatomical research findings have been presented by photographs, drawings and tables.
Spikelet sterility of wheat in farmer's field in Northwest Bangladesh
Authors: Saifuzzaman M , Fattah Quazi Abdul , Islam M Shahidul
Published: December 2008

In recent decades, sporadic and/or massive occurrence of spikelet sterility in wheat has been found in almost all the wheat growing areas of Bangladesh, especially in northwest Bangladesh where spikelet sterility causes yield reductions considerably. Investigations were carried out to understand the nature and probable cause(s) regarding the spikelet sterility problem in Bangladesh. Observations included varieties of wheat, sowing dates, prevailing weather and also soil boron (B) status in farmer's field of the sterility prone areas in northwest Bangladesh. It was found that the varieties Aghrani, Akbar and Kanchan had higher percentage of spikelet sterility than Sonalika. Seven days earlier sown wheat crops had more spikelet sterility, than seven days later sown ones, and it indicated the influence of environment and/or other cause(s) on spikelet sterility; but did not indicate the direct influence of soil boron, because, no remarkable difference of soil B status existed between the sterility affected and non-affected farmer's field in those areas. Key words: Wheat, Spikelet sterility, Grain set index, Bangladesh doi:10.3329/bjb.v37i2.1724 Bangladesh J. Bot. 37(2): 155-160, 2008 (December)
Physalis angulata L. (Solanaceae) - A new angiospermic record for Bangladesh
Authors: Sultana Nahid , Hassan MA , Begum Momtaz , Sultana Mahbuba
Published: December 2008

Physalis angulata L., an annual herb, belonging to the family Solanaceae, has been described and illustrated as a new record for Bangladesh. Key words: Physalis angulata, New record, Bangladesh doi:10.3329/bjb.v37i2.1731 Bangladesh J. Bot. 37(2): 195-198, 2008 (December)
Brachycorythis obcordata (Lindl.) Summerh. (Orchidaceae): A new angiospermic record for Bangladesh
Authors: Hoque MM , Huda MK
Published: December 2008

Brachycorythis (Lindl.) Summerh. of the family Orchidaceae is reported here as a new angiospermic record for Bangladesh flora. Key words: Brachycorythis obcordata, Orchidaceae, New record, Bangladesh doi:10.3329/bjb.v37i2.1732 Bangladesh J. Bot. 37(2): 199-201, 2008 (December)
Hospitalization and Continuity of Care in Anti-MDA5 Dermatomyositis
Authors: Richardson William Mark , Shah Jill T. , Mazori Daniel R. , Caplan Avrom S. , Lo Sicco Kristen I. , Femia Alisa N.
Published: April 2024

This cohort study describes the clinical features, patient characteristics, and treatment of anti-melanoma differentiation–associated gene 5 (MDA5) dermatomyositis.
Treatment of Keratosis Lichenoides Chronica With Upadacitinib
Authors: Tang Jingyi , Liu Fang , Liao Wenjun , Zhu Guannan
Published: April 2024

This case report describes a 30-year-old man presenting with 1-year history of nonitchy red papules and patches who was subsequently treated with upadacitinib.
Treatment Failure and Long-Term Prescription Risk for Guideline-Recommended Hypnotics in Japan
Authors: Takeshima Masahiro , Yoshizawa Kazuhisa , Ogasawara Masaya , Kudo Mizuki , Itoh Yu , Ayabe Naoko , Mishima Kazuo
Published: April 2024

Importance

Although insomnia guidelines recommend the use of several individual hypnotics, the most useful hypnotic for treating insomnia in a clinical setting remains unclear.

Objective

To determine which guideline-recommended hypnotics have lower risks of monotherapy failure and which hypnotics have a higher risk of long-term prescription for insomnia treatment.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective observational cohort study used data from the Japan Medical Data Center Claims Database from April 1, 2005, to March 31, 2021. Participants included adults whose first prescribed pharmaceutical treatment for insomnia was guideline-recommended hypnotic monotherapy. Data were analyzed from December 24, 2022, to September 26, 2023.

Exposures

Suvorexant, ramelteon, eszopiclone, zolpidem, and triazolam monotherapy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was monotherapy failure, defined as a change in hypnotic or having an additional hypnotic prescribed for insomnia within 6 months of the first prescription of a guideline-recommended hypnotic monotherapy. The secondary outcome was monotherapy discontinuation, defined as no prescription of any hypnotic for 2 consecutive months within 6 months after prescribing a guideline-recommended hypnotic in patients for whom monotherapy did not fail. Monotherapy failure and discontinuation were compared using Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression models, respectively.

Results

The study included 239 568 adults (median age, 45 [IQR, 34-55] years; 50.2% women) whose first prescription for insomnia was guideline-recommended hypnotic monotherapy. During the 6-month follow-up period, 24 778 patients (10.3%) experienced failure of monotherapy with a guideline-recommended hypnotic. In comparison with eszopiclone, there were more cases of monotherapy failure for ramelteon (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 1.23 [95% CI], 1.17-1.30; P < .001), fewer cases for zolpidem (AHR, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.81-0.87]; P < .001) and triazolam (AHR, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.78-0.87]; P < .001), and no significant difference between suvorexant and eszopiclone. Among those without monotherapy failure, monotherapy was discontinued in 84.6% of patients, with more discontinuations for ramelteon (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.31 [95% CI, 1.24-1.40]; P < .001) and suvorexant (AOR, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.15-1.26]; P < .001) than for eszopiclone and no significant difference between zolpidem or triazolam and eszopiclone.

Conclusions and Relevance

Due to uncontrolled confounding factors in this cohort study, no conclusions regarding the pharmacologic properties of guideline-recommended hypnotics can be drawn based on these results. Further studies accounting for confounding factors, including diagnoses of chronic vs acute insomnia disorder, insomnia and psychiatric symptom severity, and physician attitudes toward hypnotic prescription, are needed.
Measuring the benefit of increased transparency and control in news recommendation
Authors: Tintarev Nava , Knijnenburg Bart P. , Willemsen Martijn C.
Published: April 2024

Personalized news experiences powered by recommender systems permeate our lives and have the potential to influence not only our opinions, but also our decisions. At the same time, the content and viewpoints contained within news recommendations are driven by multiple factors, including both personalization and editorial selection. Explanations could help users gain a better understanding of the factors contributing to the news items selected for them to read. Indeed, recent works show that explanations are essential for users of news recommenders to understand their consumption preferences and set intentions in line with their goals, such as goals for knowledge development and increased diversity of content or viewpoints. We give examples of such works on explanation and interactive interface interventions which have been effective in influencing readers' consumption intentions and behaviors in news recommendations. However, the state‐of‐the‐art in news recommender systems currently fall short in terms of evaluating such interventions in live systems, limiting our ability to measure their true impact on user behavior and opinions. To help understand the true benefit of these interfaces, we therefore call for improving the realism of studies for news.
The Effect of the Deposition Strategy and Heat Treatment on Cold Spray Additive Manufactured 316L Stainless Steel
Authors: Vaz Rodolpho F. , Luzin Vladimir , Salvemini Filomena , Ribamar Giovani G. , Ávila Julian A. , Albaladejo Vicente , Sanchez Javier , Cano Irene Garcia
Published: April 2024

Herein, the effect of heat treatment on the characteristics and properties of cold spray additive manufactured 316L stainless steel employing traditional and a new metal knitting strategy is investigated. 316L feedstock powder characteristics, the geometry of the bulk, microstructure, porosity, microhardness, mechanical isotropy, and residual stress are analyzed in both strategies in as‐sprayed and heat‐treated conditions. Results show that the traditional deposition strategy produced higher mechanical resistance, whereas metal knitting presents a better part geometry accuracy. The heat treatment significantly improves the material strength and the quality of the parts by recovery and recrystallization phenomena. The same microhardness and planar isotropy are achieved after heat treatment of samples produced by both strategies. A discussion about the mechanisms, microstructural, and residual stress evolution is presented.
High‐Pressure Torsion Processing of Serine and Glutamic Acid: Understanding Mechanochemical Behavior of Amino Acids under Astronomical Impacts
Authors: Edalati Kaveh , Hidalgo‐Jiménez Jacqueline , Nguyen Thanh Tam , Watanabe Motonori , Taniguchi Ikuo
Published: April 2024

Astronomical impacts by small solar system bodies (meteoroids, asteroids, comets, and transitional objects) are considered a mechanism for delivering amino acids and their polymerization to proteins in early Earth conditions. High‐pressure torsion (HPT) is a new methodology to simulate such impacts and clarify the behavior of biomolecules. Herein, two amino acids, crystalline L‐serine and L‐glutamic acid that are detected in meteorites, are processed by HPT and examined by ex situ X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and in situ mechanical shear testing. No polymerization, chemical reactions, or phase transformations are detected after HPT, indicating that the stability and presence of these two amino acids in meteorites are quite reasonable. However, some microstructural and mechanical changes like crystal size reduction to the nanometer level, crystal defect formation, lattice expansion by vacancy formation, and shear strength enhancement to the steady state are found which are similar to the behaviors reported in metals and ceramics after HPT processing.
Functional Copolymer Derived Self‐Adapting LiF‐Rich Interphase Toward Deep Cycling Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Aoxuan , Nie Yanxin , Zhao Yumeng , Xu Dehua , Zhang Linxue , Zhao Zhengfei , Ren Libin , Zhou Shoubin , Liu Xingjiang , Luo Jiayan
Published: April 2024

Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) are the best candidates for high‐energy density system. However, the unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) caused by notorious lithium dendrite growth and huge volume fluctuation under practical conditions hinders its commercialization. Here, a functional copolymer composed of monomer is designed with ordered −CF2− groups grafted to viscoelastic backbone to provide homogeneous and self‐adapting in situ LiF‐rich interface. Hence, the robust interface facilitates rapid Li+ flux and suppresses dendritic Li growth. Furthermore, an elastic composite lithium metal anode (FELMA) based on the designed functional copolymer is fabricated through a cost‐effective approach. The FELMA shows excellent cycle stability with ultra‐low volume expansion rate of 0.16% per cycle after 200 cycles at the condition of 3 mA cm−2–3 mAh cm−2. The full batteries assembled with high‐loading LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811, 4.1 mAh cm−2) cathode can maintain 80% capacity retention after 320 cycles under N/P = 2.17 and E/C = 2.68 g Ah−1, with the cycling life increased by 220% than Li||NCM811. A prototype 418 Wh kg−1 pouch cell (5.16 Ah) with N/P ratio of 0.88 and E/C ratio of 2.39 g Ah−1 shows stable cycling.
Dynamic High‐Capacity Structural‐Color Encryption Via Inkjet Printing and Image Recognition
Authors: Li Rujun , Li Kaixuan , Deng Xiao , Jiang Congzhi , Li An , Xue Luanluan , Yuan Renxuan , Liu Quan , Zhang Zongbo , Li Huizeng , Song Yanlin
Published: April 2024

Stimuli‐responsive structural‐color materials have received widespread attention in information encryption due to the significant color changes under different stimuli. However, the trade‐off between the capacity of information input, security level, cost, and large‐area manufacturing greatly limits the application of structural colors in encryption. Herein, dynamic high‐capacity and high‐resolution encryption are achieved by implementing printed total internal reflection (TIR) structural color and computer‐aided image recognition. The printed TIR microstructures are prepared with relative humidity (RH) responsive polymer, which form a heterogeneous wettability system, and can exhibit vibrant color variation with humidity. As the implemented RH is changed, the printed microstructures will expand or shrink precisely, enabling a full‐color modulation across the visible light range. With the color change, each structural‐color pixel can be specifically encoded, allowing for this to encrypt dynamic information within the same pattern at different RHs. Furthermore, This study can precisely integrates tremendous different pixels and easily prepare various encrypted patterns, which guarantee the high‐capacity information input in a low‐cost way. Moreover, through computer programming and algorithm reading, the structural‐color patterns can be decoded and decrypted in real‐time, thus offering great potential for further encryption, anti‐counterfeiting, multiplexing encoding, and data storage.
Seeding Atomic Silver into Internal Lattice Sites of Transition Metal Oxide for Advanced Electrocatalysis
Authors: Song Wenjun , He Kun , Li Chenghang , Yin Ruonan , Guo Yaqing , Nie Anmin , Li Yanshuai , Yang Keqin , Zhou Mengting , Lin Xiaoruizhuo , Wang Zheng‐Jun , Ren Qingqing , Zhu Shaojun , Xu Ting , Liu Suya , Jin Huile , Lv Jing‐Jing , Wang Shun , Yuan Yifei
Published: April 2024

Transition metal oxides (TMOs) are widely studied for loading of various catalysts due to their low cost and high structure flexibility. However, the prevailing close‐packed nature of most TMOs crystals has restricted the available loading sites to surface only, while their internal bulk lattice remains unactuated due to the inaccessible narrow space that blocks out most key reactants and/or particulate catalysts. Herein, using tunnel‐structured MnO2, this study demonstrates how TMO's internal lattice space can be activated as extra loading sites for atomic Ag in addition to the conventional surface‐only loading, via which a dual‐form Ag catalyst within MnO2 skeleton is established. In this design, not only faceted Ag nanoparticles are confined onto MnO2 surface by coherent lattice‐sharing, Ag atomic strings are also seeded deep into the sub‐nanoscale MnO2 tunnel lattice, enriching the catalytically active sites. Tested for electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (eCO2RR), such dual‐form catalyst exhibits a high Faradaic efficiency (94%), yield (67.3 mol g−1 h−1) and durability (≈48 h) for CO production, exceeding commercial Ag nanoparticles and most Ag‐based electrocatalysts. Theoretical calculations further reveal the concurrent effect of such dual‐form catalyst featuring facet‐dependent eCO2RR for Ag nanoparticles and lattice‐confined eCO2RR for Ag atomic strings, inspiring the future design of catalyst–substrate configuration.
Bio‐Inspired Pressure‐Dependent Programmable Mechanical Metamaterial with Self‐Sealing Ability
Authors: Ghavidelnia Naeim , Slesarenko Viacheslav , Speck Olga , Eberl Christoph
Published: April 2024

Self‐sealing is one of the fascinating functions in nature that enables living material systems to respond immediately to damage. A prime plant model is Delosperma cooperi, which can rapidly self‐seal damaged succulent leaves by systematically deforming until the wound closes. Inspired by this self‐sealing principle, a novel programmable mechanical metamaterial has been developed to mimic the underlying damage management concept. This material is able to react autonomously to changes in its physical condition caused by an induced damage. To design this ability into the programmable metamaterial, a permeable unit cell design has been developed that can change size depending on the internal pressure. The parameter space and associated mechanical functionality of the unit cell design is simulated and analyzed under periodic boundary conditions and various pressures. The principles of self‐sealing behavior in designed metamaterials are investigated, crack closure efficiency is identified for different crack lengths, the limitations of the proposed approach are discussed, and successful crack closure is experimentally demonstrated in the fabricated metamaterial. Although this study facilitates the first step on the way of integrating new bio‐inspired principles in the metamaterials, the results show how programmable mechanical metamaterials might extend materials design space from pure properties to life‐like abilities.
Extraordinary Enhancement of Nonlinear Optical Interaction in NbOBr2 Microcavities
Authors: Chen Wenduo , Zhu Song , Duan Ruihuan , Wang Chongwu , Wang Fakun , Wu Yao , Dai Mingjin , Cui Jieyuan , Chae Sang Hoon , Li Zhipeng , Ma Xuezhi , Wang Qian , Liu Zheng , Wang Qi Jie
Published: April 2024

2D materials are burgeoning as promising candidates for investigating nonlinear optical effects due to high nonlinear susceptibilities, broadband optical response, and tunable nonlinearity. However, most 2D materials suffer from poor nonlinear conversion efficiencies, resulting from reduced light‐matter interactions and lack of phase matching at atomic thicknesses. Herein, a new 2D nonlinear material, niobium oxide dibromide (NbOBr2) is reported, featuring strong and anisotropic optical nonlinearities with scalable nonlinear intensity. Furthermore, Fabry‐Pérot (F‐P) microcavities are constructed by coupling NbOBr2 with air holes in silicon. Remarkable enhancement factors of ≈630 times in second harmonic generation (SHG) and 210 times in third harmonic generation (THG) are achieved on cavity at the resonance wavelength of 1500 nm. Notably, the cavity enhancement effect exhibits strong anisotropic feature tunable with pump wavelength, owing to the robust optical birefringence of NbOBr2. The ratio of the enhancement factor along the b– and c–axis of NbOBr2 reaches 2.43 and 5.27 for SHG and THG at 1500 nm pump, respectively, which leads to an extraordinarily high SHG anisotropic ratio of 17.82 and a 10° rotation of THG polarization. The research presents a feasible and practical strategy for developing high‐efficiency and low‐power‐pumped on‐chip nonlinear optical devices with tunable anisotropy.
Cluster‐Triggered Self‐Luminescence, Rapid Self‐Healing, and Adaptive Reprogramming Liquid Crystal Elastomers Enabled by Dynamic Imine Bond
Authors: Fan Qingyan , Tang Yuting , Sun Haonan , Guo Dekang , Ma Jiawei , Guo Jinbao
Published: April 2024

The integration of advanced functions and diverse practical applications calls for multifunctional liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs); however, the structure‐intrinsic luminescence and excellent mechanical properties of LCEs have not yet been explored. In this study, clusteroluminescence (CL)‐based LCEs (CL‐LCEs) are successfully fabricated without depending on large conjugated structures, thereby avoiding redundant organic synthesis and aggregation‐caused quenching. The experimental and theoretical results reveal that secondary amine (–NH–) and imine (–C = N–) groups play vital roles in determining the presence of fluorescence in CL‐LCEs. Based on the above observation, the strategy universalization and a molecular library for constructing CL‐LCEs are further demonstrated. Meanwhile, the dynamic bond of imine bonds endows the CL‐LCE system with rapid self‐healing under mild conditions (70 °C in 10 min), excellent stretchability, and adaptive programmable characteristics. Furthermore, the self‐luminescent performance enables visual detection of the self‐healing process. Finally, CL‐based information storage and anticounterfeiting are successfully realized and their applications in fiber actuators and fluorescent textiles are demonstrated. The distinctive luminescence and dynamic chemistry presented in this work has significant implications in elucidating the mechanism of CL and providing new strategies for the rational design of novel multifunctional LCE materials.