bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trace-element distribution in a garnet-chlorite rock from Foel Ddu, near Harlech, Merionethshire
Authors: Mohr P. A.
Published: December 2006

Analytical data on a garnet-chlorite rock and the contained garnet with spectrographic determinations of the trace elements are presented, and the principles determining the distribution of these elements between the garnet and the chlorite are discussed.
The normal-pattern finder: an aid to stereographic projection
Authors: Boom G.
Published: December 2006

The normal-pattern finder is a mechanical aid for use in finding the various possible configurations of a construction in the Barker system for anorthie crystals. Its purpose is to avoid the drawing of zones in pencil on the stereographic projection, which zones make it more difficult to recognize other differently constructed normal-patterns.
Titanomagnetites from a differentiated teschenite sill
Authors: Wilkinson J. F. G.
Published: December 2006

Mineragraphic, chemical, and X-ray data are presented on the titanomagnetites1 from a differentiated teschenite sill. The minerals are generally homogeneous. The earliest titanomagnetites are Fe3O4.Fe2TiO4.FeTiO3 a solid solutions; the titanomagnetite crystallization trend is one of enrichment in Fe3O4 and FeTiO3 at the expense of Fe2TiO4. The relations of the titanomagnetites to the parent rocks and associated minerals, and their role in basaltic magma iron enrichment are also discussed.
A contribution to the mineralogy of chloritoid
Authors: Snelling N. J.
Published: December 2006

Chloritoids from the Saxa Vord schists in the Shetland Isles and the Dalradian schists north of Stonehaven have been studied optically and chemically. In both eases monoclinic and triclinic crystals occur with α = b in the monoclinic varieties. Twinning is common with twin axes [110] and [230]. The formula of chloritoid is considered in relation to the structure recently suggested by Brindley and Harrison (1952).
Isokite and triplite from Bohemia
Authors: Fisher D. Jerome
Published: December 2006

Isokite (CaMgPO4F), a new mineral homologous with sphene, was described late in 1955 from a Rhodesian carbonatite plug. A fine-grained variety is now reported from Bohemia, where it occurs as a replacement of (probably a hydrothermal alteration product of) coarse medium brown ‘later’ triplites. It is intimately associated with fine-grained apatite that along with quartz formed post-isokite.
Plagioclases from the Juvinas meteorite and from allivalite from the Isle of Rhum
Authors: Game P. M.
Published: December 2006

The optical properties and specific gravity, and the variations in these properties, of analysed plagioclases separated from the meteorite (eucrite) from Juvinas, France, are compared with the corresponding values for a terrestrial plagioclase of almost identical composition from an allivalite from Rhum. The range in properties for the Juvinas plagioclase indicates a compositional range from about Ab35An65 to Ab15An85, but the great majority of grains are bytownite with approximately 83 % (molecular) anorthite.

The frequency of occurrence of the twin-laws of the Juvinas plagioclase resembles that of plagioclase from basalts and allied rocks.

The variable changes and, in some grains, absence of change in the optical properties shown by the Juvinas plagioclase crystals, after heating to 1100°C. for 48 hours followed by rapid cooling, contrasts with the small but constant optical changes shown by the allivalite plagioclase (for which geological evidence indicates slow cooling) after identical heat treatment. It is inferred that the meteoritic plagioclase grains have had differing thermal histories, and that some grains have been subjected to previous natural quenching.
The powder patterns and lattice parameters of plagioclase felspars. II
Authors: Smith J. V. , Gay P.
Published: December 2006

The angular separations (2θ (131)+2θ (220)−4θand (2θfor 111 analysed plagioclase felspars have been determined from diffractometer records. From An0to An70the petrological environment has a strong influence on these separations, and if the An-content is independently known an accurate estimate of the structural state can he made from the first of these angular separations. From An70to An100there are only small variations in both separations with An-content and structural state. From An85to An100inconsistencies in the data suggest that other factors can influence any interpretation so seriously that only qualitative or semi-quantitative deductions may be made. Consideration of the angular separations and subsidiary reflections of sodie plagioclases from a wide range of geological environments has led to the novel hypothesis that in this composition region even plutonic specimens are in a metastable state with slightly disordered structures.

The value to the petrographer of the available methods for the estimation of An- content and structural state is critically discussed. Although it is thought that the standard optical curves in present use are in need of some revision, the determination of optical orientation by universal-stage methods is probably adequate for routine studies. For more detailed investigations, this may be supplemented by X-ray powder data and refractive index measurements, whilst a complete description of the felspar requires the addition both of chemical analysis and single-crystal X-ray work. In particular, the efficacy of the various X-ray methods that have been proposed is discussed, and recommendations of the most suitable method for various composition ranges are made.
The mineral paragenesis and metamorphic status of garnet-hornblende-pyroxene-scapolite gneiss from Ghana (Gold Coast)
Authors: von Knorring O. , Kennedy W. Q.
Published: December 2006

The main minerals (garnet, pyroxene, hornblende, and scapolite) in certain Dahomeyan (Archaean) garnet-hornblende-pyroxene-scapolite gneisses from Ghana have been separated and analysed. Both the garnet and the pyroxene show marked eclogitic affinities, and the rocks are considered to occupy a transitional position between the amphibolite and eclogite facies. The scapolite is a sulphatic variety containing more than 4 % SO3 and is believed to be a product of autometasomatism. A revised scheme for the distribution of mineral facies within the temperature-pressure field of metamorphism is proposed.
New techniques for the universal stage. I. An extinction curve method for the determination of the optical indicatrix
Authors: Joel N. , Muir I. D.
Published: December 2006

This paper describes a development for the universal stage of the extinction curve method for determining the orientation of the optical indicatrix in biaxial crystals. The extinction curve may be defined as the locus of the poles of the extinction directions when the crystal is rotated between crossed polarizers about an arbitrary but fixed axis perpendicular to the microscope axis.

When two or more extinction curves, or parts of them, are plotted on a stereographic projection, their intersections give the directions of the axes of the indicatrix, of which at least two are directly accessible. The main application of this new orthoscopic method is to provide a means of refining the orientation of the indicatrix obtained by this or any other method. The accuracy that can be obtained for minerals of low birefringence such as the felspars is considerably greater than with the conventional orthoscopic method.

A complete account is given of the details of the plotting procedure.
On the unit cell of calcium potassium sulphate hydrate: synthetic and natural syngenite
Authors: Aruja E.
Published: December 2006

The space group and unit cell of natural syngenite have been redetermined. X-ray powder photographs of natural syngenite and synthetic CaSO4.K2SO4.H2O were found to be practically identical. Optical and d.t.a. data are also given.
X-ray studies of synthetic diamonds
Authors: Lonsdale Kathleen , Milledge H. Judith , Nave Eric
Published: December 2006

Studies are described of various specimens of diamonds made by the General Electric Company of New York, and by Allmänna Svenska Elektriska Aktiebolaget, Västeras, Sweden. The G.E. synthetic diamonds always contain single crystal inclusions of nickel or of a Ni-rich face-centred cubic compound. These are strictly parallel to the diamond surrounding them. If the nickel inclusions are twinned on (111), the diamond is similarly twinned; and this is usually the case. It is suggested that epitaxial growth is part of the mechanism of the graphite-to-diamond transformation in the G.E. technique. Other powdered or single-crystal inclusions are also found; some of those correspond to compounds that occur in meteoritic carbon. There is no parallel growth in such cases. The Swedish synthetic diamonds do not contain nickel, but they are generally less well-crystallized than the G.E. specimens. Both, however, give good diffraction spots indicating a well-ordered structure with (except very rarely) no trace of graphite present.
The fibrous zeolite erionite; its occurrence, unit cell, and structure
Authors: Staples Lloyd W. , Gard J. A.
Published: December 2006

The type locality for erionite has been identified and specimens compared with Eakle's original material. New determinations of the physical properties and a chemical analysis have been made. Correlation of X-ray powder and fibre rotation data with electron diffraction of single crystals has shown that the unit cell is hexagonal with a 13·26, c 15·12 Å., space-group P31c, P¯31c, P63mc, P¯62c, or P63/mmc, giving a calculated sp. Gr. of 2·07 and atomic cell contents (Ca, Mg, Na2, K2)4·5Al9Si27O72.27H2O. A structure is proposed for the aluminosilicate frame, with space-group P63/mmc, which gives satisfactory correlation between observed and calculated structure factors for the X-ray fibre rotation pattern.
Yoderite, a new hydrous magnesium iron aluminosilicate from Mautia Hill, Tanganyika
Authors: McKie Duncan
Published: December 2006

Yoderite occurs as a major constituent in a quartz-kyanite-tale schist, and is a high-pressure phase formed by the reaction Ky + Tc → Yd + Qu. The monoclinic unit-cell, a 8·10 Å., b 5·78 Å., c 7·28 Å., β 106°, space-group P21 or P21m, contains approximately (Mg2·0Ca0·2Fe0·5Al5·3Si4·0O17·6(OH)2·4. The structure appears to be related to that of kyanite, with which the mineral is intergrown; it is not an analogue of staurolite. The three strongest powder lines are 3·50 Å. vvs, 3·03 Å. vs, 2·61 Å. s. Specific gravity 3·39. Subsidiary reflections, similar to those of the intermediate plagioclases, have indices with non-simple fractional values of k. Optical properties are α 1·689 pale Prussian blue, β 1·691 indigo, γ 1·715 light olivegreen, absorption β > α > γ, 2Vγ25°, optic axial plane {010}, γ:[001] ≈ 7° in the obtuse angle β. An interpretation of the colour on the electron-exchange hypothesis Fe2+ ⇌ Fe3+ + e−, is suggested. A kinetic study has been made of the disappearance of the subsidiary reflections in the range 700°C. to 820°C.; further heating to 850°C. produces the metastable appearance of mullite, and at temperatures above 1100°C. the equilibrium anhydrous assemblage indialite + sapphirine appears.
The system CaO-MgO-FeO-SiO2 and its bearing on the origin of ultrabasic and basic rocks
Authors: Wyllie Peter J.
Published: December 2006

Experimental data in the system CaO-MgO-FeO-SiO2 suggest that there may be a plateau on the liquidus and solidus of the multicomponent system basalt-peridotite. If this is so, fusion of peridotite would produce only basaltie magmas over a wide temperature range; when the temperature reached a value such that the liquid crossed the threshold of the plateau, there would be a rapid increase in the amount of fusion for small temperature increases, with the formation of picritic magmas; basaltic magmas containing suspended forsteritic olivine crystals could dissolve them if the temperature rose slightly above that of the plateau threshold; a high proportion of a picritic magma would crystallize in a small temperature interval, with the precipitation of forsteritic olivine that was only slightly zoned. These possibilities are compared with current theories, and it is concluded that several petrological axioms may require critical re-examination. An experimental procedure is outlined to determine the shape of the liquidus and solidus in the basalt-peridotite system.
Occurrence of stokesite in Czechoslovakia
Authors: Čech F.
Published: December 2006

Stokesite was found in a lithium-bearing pegmatite at Ctidružice near Moravské Budějovice in Western Moravia (Czechoslovakia) in a close association with cryptocrystalline cassiterite. The type of its occurrence is described and its X-ray powder diffraction data given. This represents only the second occurrence of this very rare hydrous silicate of tin and calcium.
Electron-optical and electron-diffraction study of a disordered structural state in the transformation goethite-hematite (Plate XX)
Authors: McConnell J. D. C. , Lima-de-Faria J.
Published: December 2006

Previous X-ray observations by J. Lima-de-Faria and P. Gay on the transformation goethite-hematite indicate that in the process of state change at low temperatures, maxima of scattered X-ray intensity occur as satellites to strong and diffuse Bragg maxima due to hematite. These maxima define a repeat distance of about 32 Å. Corresponding satellite maxima have been observed using electron diffraction technique and satellite maxima flanking the direct beam (000) have been used to obtain a direct electron optical image of the disordered state at high magnification. Such photographs show a mainly regular fringe system with spacing of approximately 30 Å. Dislocation patterns were also observed.
A new occurrence and a structural interpretation of the sanidine Nevada twin
Authors: Sabatier G.
Published: December 2006

A new example of the Nevada twin from the Mont-Dore (Massif Central, France) is described. A structural interpretation of the twin is given assuming a (01) composition plane parallel with the chains of the feldspar structure.
On hour-glass sector zoning in clinopyroxene
Authors: Ferguson A. K.
Published: December 2006

The observations of hour-glass sector zoning from four selected clinopyroxenes in undersaturated lavas best fit a model in which the sector zoning is formed due to a structural requirement in a growth direction normal to {100} where a high concentration of silicate units, required to build the silicate chains, is unsatisfied. In these sectors Al substitutes for Si, the charge balance being maintained by octahedral substitutions, of which Ti contributes to the deeper colour of the sectors. The presence of concentric zoning only reflects a change in temperature and a change in the composition of the liquid during crystallization of the pyroxene.
Urea, a new mineral, and neotype phosphammite from Western Australia
Authors: Bridge P. J.
Published: December 2006

Urea, a new mineral identical with the artificial compound, occurs as crystals associated with phosphammite, ammonian aphthitalite, and weddellite in guano from Toppin Hill, 123° 56′ E., 28° 42′ S., Western Australia. The urea occurs as elongated tetragonal pyramids, space group , a 5·646, c 4·701 Å, X-ray powder data are given. Optical properties: ω 1·484, ε 1·603. Chemical analysis gave urea, CO(NH2)2 96·0, H2O− 0·46, Na 0.13, K 0·35, Ca 0·07, Mg 0·03, S 0·11, P 0·24, NH3 < 1·0 %, remainder probably mainly H2O+; urea 96 %, impurities 4 %. Type material is preserved in the collection of the Government Chemical Laboratories, Perth, Western Australia.
Tungsten- and antimony-substituted
rutile
Authors: Graham J. , Morris R. C.
Published: December 2006

Two occurrences of rutile are reported
from Big Bell in Western Australia containing up
to 5·8 wt % WO3, 1·7 wt %
Sb2O5,
and 1·7 wt % FeO. One occurs in a mica schist, and
the other in a pegmatite, and both contain a fine
intergrowth of ilmenite lamellae. Small grains of
gudmundite are associated with the rutile in the
pegmatite. Microprobe analyses do not conclusively
establish the mechanism of isomorphous
substitution.
Killalaite, a new mineral from Co. Sligo, Ireland
Authors: Nawaz R.
Published: December 2006

Killalaite occurs in a thermally metamorphosed limestone at Killala Bay, near Inishcrone, Co. Sligo. It is a secondary mineral and occurs in cavities and veins with calcite or afwillite in spurrite-wollastonite rocks. It is found in well-formed colourless crystals, up to 2 mm long, with a characteristic penetrative twinning observed under crossed nicols as a cross ‘bow-tie’, cleavage (100) perfect, (010) good, (001) poor. The crystals are monoclinic, biaxial, 2Vα26°, refractive index α 1·635 and γ 1·642, optic axial plane (010), β = [010] (elongation), γ: [001] ≈ 16°, density calculated from RI ∼ 2·88, provisional approximate cell dimensions a 9·3, b 9·9, c 7·7 (±0.1 Å), β ∼105° and Z = 2. Electron microprobe analysis gave CaO 57·o, SiO2 39·8; H2O (by difference) 3·2; MgO, Al2O3, and Fe2O3 together < 0·3 weight %, composition 2Ca3Si2O7.H2O. The stronger lines of the X-ray powder pattern are: 3·03, 2·824, 2·724, 2·275, 2·224, 1·688, 1·673, and 1·413 Å. It probably formed in a CO2-deficient hydrothermal environment in the PT range of 350° to 500 °C and 500 to 3500 bars. The mineral is named after the name of the locality, Killala Bay, and should be pronounced as killalahite. Type material is preserved at the Ulster Museum and at the British Museum (Natural History).
An E.S.R. study of natural fluorite containing manganese impurities
Authors: Bailey A. D. , Hunt R. P. , Taylor K. N. R.
Published: December 2006

The electron spin resonance spectrum of a sample of natural, orange-coloured fluorite from Broken Hill, Australia, has been observed and shown to arise from the presence of manganese ions. From an analysis of the structure of this spectrum it has been possible to estimate the various contributions to the ionic energy level splitting and to show that these are in good agreement with comparable results for synthetic material. It is evident that the manganese ions have entered the lattice substitutionally at Ca2+ sites and the nature of this site is discussed.
Survival and Late Effects in Children With Hodgkin's Lymphoma Treated With MOPP/ABV and Low-Dose, Extended-Field Irradiation
Authors: Chow Lionel M.L. , Nathan Paul C. , Hodgson David C. , Jenkin Derek , Weitzman Sheila , Grant Ronald M. , Manson David , Bross Adee , Doyle John J. , Danjoux Cyril , Greenberg Mark L.
Published: December 2006

Purpose

Reduced-intensity protocols for pediatric Hodgkin's lymphoma are aimed at preserving excellent relapse-free survival while decreasing the incidence of late effects.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the outcome of 123 children treated consecutively for Hodgkin's lymphoma at a single institution. Patients with stages I-IIIB disease received three cycles of mechlorethamine, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone (MOPP)/ doxorubicin, bleomycin, and vinblastine (ABV) followed by 15 Gy of extended-field irradiation, while those with stage IV disease were treated with six to eight cycles of MOPP/ABV chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy.

Results

At a median follow-up of 8.5 years (range, 1.4 to 15.5 years), the estimated 10-year overall survival and event-free survival are 94% (SE, 2.2%) and 88% (SE, 3.1%) respectively. There have been 12 treatment failures and six disease-related deaths. A very large mediastinal mass (≥ 50% of the maximal thoracic diameter) was associated with a 10-year event-free survival of 50% (SE, 14%) compared with 91% (SE, 4.0%) for smaller masses (P < .001). Late cardiopulmonary toxicity is largely absent, and the incidence of hypothyroidism is 14%. There have been no cases of secondary leukemia and four secondary solid malignancies observed to date.

Conclusion

MOPP/ABV and low-dose, extended-field radiotherapy is an effective treatment for pediatric Hodgkin's lymphoma. With median follow-up of 8.5 years, late cardiopulmonary effects and secondary malignancies from this treatment regimen are infrequent. Continued longitudinal observations, particularly for breast cancer in female patients and gonadotoxicity, will determine whether the goal of decreasing treatment-related complications while maintaining excellent survival has been achieved.
Pathways Through Relapses and Deaths of Children With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Role of Allogeneic Stem-Cell Transplantation in Nordic Data
Authors: Saarinen-Pihkala Ulla M. , Heilmann Carsten , Winiarski Jacek , Glomstein Anders , Abrahamsson Jonas , Arvidson Johan , Békássy Albert N. , Forestier Erik , Jonmundsson Gudmundur , Schroeder Henrik , Vettenranta Kim , Wesenberg Finn , Gustafsson Göran
Published: December 2006

Purpose

Our focus was on patients with pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who experienced relapse or died without becoming transplantation candidates. The purpose was to outline measures needed to improve the outcome.

Patients and Methods

We analyzed our population-based 20-year data on 3,385 Nordic children with ALL treated on Nordic Society for Pediatric Hematology and Oncology ALL protocols, and described the flow of these patients through relapses, remissions, and deaths as a result of toxicity, demonstrating where major patient losses occurred.

Results

In total, 854 patients (25%) had a first and 274 patients (8%) had a second ALL relapse. P for survival after the first relapse was .35 ± .02. The induction mortality (2.2%, primary; 10.3%, first relapse; 26.3%, second relapse) and remission mortality (1%, first complete remission [1CR]; 19%, second CR [2CR]) were significant; transplantation-related mortality (TRM) only represented 15% (69 of 459) of the deaths as a result of toxicity. Of the 766 patients entering 2CR, 29% underwent transplantation (P for survival, .46 ± .04), whereas 71% continued receiving chemotherapy (P for survival, .39 ± .02). Children with stem-cell transplantation indications in 2CR, if they did not undergo transplantation, generally died or had a second relapse. The patient groups that underwent transplantation in 1CR (n = 84), 2CR (n = 220), and ≥ 3CR (n = 62) represented different risk profiles. Those with allogeneic stem-cell transplantation (allo-SCT) in ≥ 3CR (P for survival, .37 ± .07) had an ALL and first relapse with favorable features.

Conclusion

Major patient losses occurred through mortality as a result of toxicity and resistant disease during the pathways before allo-SCT. After relapse, more patients were lost to mortality as a result of toxicity during conventional chemotherapy compared with TRM. After second relapse, the chance for rescue by allo-SCT in ≥ 3CR was minimal. The question of whether transplantation is recommended after ALL relapse should be carefully addressed, and more efficient relapse protocols should be launched.
Hormone Replacement Therapy and Survival After Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Chan Jennifer A. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , Chan Andrew T. , Giovannucci Edward L. , Colditz Graham A. , Fuchs Charles S.
Published: December 2006

Purpose

Postmenopausal estrogen use has been shown to decrease the incidence of colorectal cancer, but there is limited information regarding the effect of estrogen use on survival after diagnosis of colorectal cancer.

Participants and Methods

We examined the influence of postmenopausal estrogen use on mortality among 834 women participating in the Nurses' Health Study who were diagnosed with colorectal cancer between 1976 and 2000 and observed until death or June 2004, whichever came first. Colorectal cancer–specific mortality and overall mortality according to categories of hormone use were assessed. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) adjusted for other risk factors for cancer survival.

Results

Postmenopausal estrogen use before diagnosis of colorectal cancer was associated with significant reduction in mortality. Compared with women with no prior estrogen use, those reporting current use before diagnosis had an adjusted HR of 0.64 (95% CI, 0.47 to 0.88) for colorectal cancer–specific mortality and 0.74 (95% CI, 0.56 to 0.97) for overall mortality. This inverse association between hormone use and mortality was most evident among women whose duration of use was less than 5 years. Longer durations and past use were not associated with significant survival benefit. Assessment of estrogen use after diagnosis demonstrated similar findings.

Conclusion

Current postmenopausal estrogen use before diagnosis of colorectal cancer was associated with improved colorectal cancer–specific and overall mortality. This benefit was principally limited to women who initiated estrogens within 5 years of diagnosis. Additional efforts to understand mechanisms through which estrogens influence colorectal carcinogenesis and cancer progression seem warranted.
Individualist Religious Movements: Core and Neo‐shamanism
Authors: Townsend Joan B.
Published: December 2006

I draw from my papers and oral presentations to address several issues of Core and Neo‐shamanism. These include clarification of definitions and distinctions between traditional shamans, Core shamanism, Neo‐shamanism, and urban shamanism. Finally I propose an evaluation of Core and Neo‐shamanism.
Constructing A Model of Espiritista Healing in the Philippines
Authors: Krippner Stanley
Published: December 2006

A conference sponsored by the U.S. National Institutes of Health in 1995 proposed 13 categories by which alternative and complementary medical systems could be described. This model was applied to Filipino Christian Spiritist (Espiritista) Healing, a folk healing system that dates back hundred of years. This system was found to match each of the model's categories, providing a framework in which future research projects could be designed. The utility of this model speaks well for the sophistication of Espiritista healing, even though its effectiveness is still an open question.
Mental Health of Healthcare Workers who Experience Needlestick and Sharps Injuries
Authors: Sohn Jang‐Wook , Kim Byoung‐Gwon , Kim Soo‐Hyun , Han Changsu
Published: December 2006

Mental Health of Healthcare Workers who Experience Needlestick and Sharps Injuries: Jang‐Wook Sohn, et al. Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Korea—Healthcare workers (HCWs) are exposed daily to the risk of injury by needlesticks and other medical instruments. However, the psychiatric impacts of such injuries have not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mental health status of HCWs with experiences of needlestick and sharps injuries. A cross‐sectional written survey was performed. The psychological symptoms before injury and current status were measured using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM‐A) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The proportions of HCWs with and without needlestick and sharps injuries were 71.1% (n=263) and 28.9% (n=107), respectively. HAM‐A and BDI scores were significantly higher among HCWs with injury experiences (p<0.01). HCWs with injury experiences exhibited higher PSS and BDI scores after the injury and higher levels of anxiety and depression. Particular attention should be directed towards the psychological consequences of needlestick and sharps injuries in HCWs.
Genotoxic Risks to Nurses from Contamination of the Work Environment with Antineoplastic Drugs in Japan
Authors: Yoshida Jin , Kosaka Hiroshi , Tomioka Kimiko , Kumagai Shinji
Published: December 2006

Genotoxic Risks to Nurses from Contamination of the Work Environment with Antineoplastic Drugs in Japan: Jin Yoshida, et al. Department of Environmental Health, Osaka Prefectural Institute of Public Health—The aims of the present study were to clarify the work environment contamination by antineoplastic drugs in a hospital ward and to assess the genotoxic risks to nurses who routinely handle antineoplastic drugs in Japan. The exposed group consisted of 19 female nurses who routinely handled antineoplastic drugs. The control group consisted of 18 female nurses who did not handle antineoplastic drugs in the same hospital as the exposed group. The genotoxicity of the 19 antineoplastic drugs used in the hospital ward and 8 wipe samples of the workbench after handling of antineoplastic drugs were measured using the umu assay. Lymphocyte DNA damage (tail length) was measured with alkaline methods of the single cell gel electrophoresis assay (comet assay). Of the 19 antineoplastic drugs, dacarbazine, bleomycin, daunorubicin, doxorubicin, pirarubicin, carboplatin, cisplatin and etoposide induced genotoxicity. Of the 8 sampling d, the umu activity of the wipe sample was positive on 3 d. Contamination of the workbench was found when the nurses handled more drugs than on other days. The medians of the tail length in the comet assay were 8.5 and 5.1 μm, respectively, for the exposed and control groups, with a significant difference (p=0.004 by Mann‐Whitney's U‐test). In the present study, the nurses of the exposed group were considered to have been exposed to antineoplastic drugs and lymphocyte DNA damage of the exposed group was suggested to be induced by antineoplastic drugs.
DNA Origami‐Engineered Plasmonic Nanoprobes for Targeted Cancer Imaging
Authors: Wu Lintong , Tanwar Swati , Kaur Gagandeep , Date Siddhi , Goel Linika , Chatterjee Arnab , McGuiggan Patty , Barman Ishan
Published: March 2024

Plasmonic nanomaterials bearing targeting ligands are of great interest for surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)‐based bioimaging applications. However, the practical utility of SERS‐based imaging strategies is hindered by the lack of a straightforward method to synthesize highly sensitive SERS‐active nanostructures with high yield and efficiency. In this work, leveraging DNA origami principles, the first‐in‐class design of a SERS‐based plasmonically coupled nanoprobe for targeted cancer imaging (SPECTRA) is reported. The nanoprobe harnesses a cancer cell targeting DNA aptamer sequence and vibrational tag with stretching frequency in the cell‐silent Raman window. Through the integration of aptamer sequence specific for DU145 cells, the unique capabilities of SPECTRA for targeted imaging of DU145 cells are shown. The results demonstrate that the scalability, cost‐effectiveness, and reproducibility of this method of fabrication of SERS nanoprobes can serve as a versatile platform for creating nanoprobes with broad applications in the fields of cancer biology and biomedical imaging.
Double‐Helical Carbon Nanotube‐Wrapped Elastomeric Mandrel for Electrical Shortage‐Free, One‐Body Multifunctional Fiber Systems
Authors: Son Wonkyeong , Lee Jae Myeong , Choi Jin Hyeong , Kim Juwan , Noh Junho , Oh Myoungeun , Sim Hyeon Jun , Jeong Chang Kyu , Chun Sungwoo , Kim Seon Jeong , Choi Changsoon
Published: March 2024

Soft and elastic fiber‐based electronic devices exhibiting high electromechanical stability are highly desirable for sustainable and continuous utilization in various applications. However, effectively assembling the cathode and anode in a single body without unwanted interconnections and realizing an intimate contact interface between the electrode and substrate remain challenging. Here, an electrical shortage‐free one‐body fiber system with double‐helix buckle electrodes created by torsion‐ and strain‐mismatch between carbon nanotube (CNT) ribbons and a rubber substrate is reported. The as‐used CNT ribbons serve as the strain‐insensitive electrode, while the rubber mandrel‐core fiber acts as the key matrix in the following three aspects: as an elastic substrate that ensures reversible structural changes during mechanical deformations; as a dielectric layer for capacitive strain sensing; and as an electrothermal expansion element for tensile contraction. Moreover, because of the mismatch‐induced torque‐balance structure, the helically wrapped CNT buckle electrodes can effectively absorb the applied stresses without noticeable delamination and electrical conductance loss. Consequently, the double‐helix buckle fiber system can reliably provide multiple functions, viz. detection of various deformations (e.g., stretching, twisting, and pressing), electrochemical energy storage with excellent strain tolerance, and reversible electrothermal tensile actuation.
A Perspective on the Molecular Modeling of Electrolyte Decomposition Reactions for Solid Electrolyte Interphase Growth in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Bin Jassar Mohammed , Michel Carine , Abada Sara , De Bruin Theodorus , Tant Sylvain , Nieto‐Draghi Carlos , Steinmann Stephan N.
Published: March 2024

The solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is a thin heterogeneous layer formed at the anode/electrolyte interface in lithium‐ion batteries as a consequence of the reduction of the electrolyte. The initial formation of the SEI inhibits the direct contact between the electrode and the electrolyte and thus protects the battery. However, the composition, structure, and size of the SEI evolve over time and the growth of the SEI is considered the primary mechanism leading to the gradual deterioration of the battery performance. Despite the importance of the SEI and its growth, the atomistic understanding of the underlying elementary reaction steps remains partial. Molecular modeling of the electrolyte decomposition is key to gain detailed insights that are complementary to experiments for the reactions occurring in this heterogenous interphase. In this perspective, the electron transport mechanisms are first described from the anode to the electrolyte through the SEI and highlight the importance of the inorganic/organic interface within the heterogeneous SEI: it is where the electrolyte decomposition reactions are likely to occur. Finally, a view is provided on the current progress on molecular modeling techniques (e.g., Density Functional Theory, force fields, machine learning potentials) of the SEI and the challenges each method faces.
A Novel Multifunctional Material for Constructing 3D Multi‐Response Structures Using Programmable Two‐Photon Laser Fabrication
Authors: Zhang Yuzhao , Yu Haibo , Zhang Xiaojie , Zheng Jianchen , Wang Jingang , Guo Hongji , Qiu Ye , Wang Xiaoduo , Liu Lianqing , Li Wen Jung
Published: March 2024

Two‐photon polymerization direct laser writing (TPP‐DLW) technology has gained much popularity due to its precision and flexibility in creating intricate 3D micro/nano‐scale devices and machines. While TPP‐DLW enables complex 3D micro/nano patterning, developing multifunctional materials tailored for this process remains a challenge, limiting sophisticated micro/nano device performance. This work addresses key barriers by introducing a novel multifunctional network polymer with specifically designed for TPP‐DLW. The material integrates tailored functional groups allowing submicron 3D spatial arrangement under laser control. Remarkably, it demonstrates tunable pH response, programmed fluorescence, and dynamic reconfiguration upon optical illumination. By leveraging TPP‐DLW's programmability, reconfigurable encrypted microstructures are achieved, representing a new precision multifunctional material printing paradigm beyond single property systems. The synthesized material with its responsive properties, combined with digital fabrication control, fills critical gaps in developing smart, adaptive micro/nano systems. Potential applications requiring exquisite 3D control and multi‐tasking, such as biomedical sensors, micromachines and optics could see transformative advancement. Fundamentally, this integrated materials‐processing approach broadens micro/nano manufacturing design space and functional versatility.
Layered Wide Bandgap Semiconductor GaPS4 as a Charge‐Trapping Medium for Use in High‐Temperature Artificial Synaptic Applications
Authors: Cao Ding‐wen , Yan Yong , Wang Meng‐na , Luo Gao‐li , Zhao Jia‐rong , Zhi Jia‐ke , Xia Cong‐xin , Liu Yu‐fang
Published: March 2024

Artificial synaptic devices (ASDs) are attracting widespread attention as highly promising components for use in complex neuromorphic systems, playing crucial roles in addressing the challenges posed by the conventional von Neumann architecture. However, the instabilities of ASDs in high‐temperature environments diminish the reliabilities of the device performances, significantly inhibiting their practical application. Herein, a highly reliable 2D MoS2/GaPS4 ASD that maintains its functionality even after exposure to 400 °C is proposed. Moreover, due to the enhanced charge‐trapping effect of the GaPS4 layer, the memory window expands from an initial 42 to 55 V, accompanied by a substantial on/off ratio of 105, low off‐leakage current of 10−11 A, and high number of endurance cycles (103). The device effectively simulates various biological synaptic functions via electric and light stimulation. Notably, the high electric and light paired‐pulse facilitation indices suggest an exceptional synaptic performance. The findings introduce a novel approach to high‐temperature neuromorphic applications via defect engineering.
Stretchable Metal‐Air Batteries Through Sliding Electrodes
Authors: Shi Yichao , Ren Muqing , Sun Anqian , Johnston Eric D. , Allen Mark G. , Pikul James H.
Published: March 2024

Soft robots and wearable technologies benefit significantly from stretchable batteries, yet the rigid nature of high‐capacity electrodes creates large trade‐offs in battery performance and stretchability. This study introduces a new approach for realizing stretchable batteries by allowing the electrodes to slide along a stretchable electrolyte. When the sliding‐electrodes battery is stretched, the forces are transmitted through the hydrogel electrolyte and elastomeric enclosure, while the rigid electrodes slide relative to the hydrogel to maintain interfacial contact. The sliding‐electrodes approach allows 100% of the unstretched battery area to be covered by thick electrodes so that the battery areal capacity and power are improved by up to 10X of prior stretchable designs. Three metal‐air batteries achieve areal capacities of up to 104 mWh cm−2. Further mechanical testing, electrochemical characterization, and integration into soft robotic systems demonstrate the potential of these stretchable batteries in practical applications. The sliding‐electrodes battery can stably power multiple servo motors and sensing circuits under stretching, twisting, bending, and after impact.
Orientation Dependent Interlayer Coupling in Organic–Inorganic Heterostructures
Authors: Bartlam Cian , Saigal Nihit , Heiserer Stefan , Lambers Hendrik , Wurstbauer Ursula , Duesberg Georg S.
Published: March 2024

Organic–inorganic 2D heterostructures combine the high optical absorption of organic molecules with exciton‐dominated optical properties in layered transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) such as MoS2. Critical to the interaction and the optical response in such hybrid systems is the electronic band alignment at the interface between the two species. Here, the coupling of monolayers of perylene derivatives is investigated with bilayer MoS2. In particular, variation in the perylene orientation on the MoS2 surface is identified using Raman spectroscopy and scanning probe microscopy. Low‐temperature optical spectroscopy reveals orientation‐dependent interlayer exciton formation. Furthermore, power‐dependent photoluminescence measurements provide insight into the modified interlayer charge transfer in these heterostructures. A saturation of interlayer states is found under high excitation power when the perylene molecules are in a perpendicular orientation to the surface that leads to electron accumulation in the MoS2, whereas parallel alignment of the perylene molecules leads to enhanced populations of organic–inorganic interlayer excitons. This work provides insights into the optimization of organic–inorganic heterostructures, with particular relevance to applications for optoelectronic and excitonic devices.
Artificial Vasa‐Vasorum Serves as an On‐Site Regenerative Promoter of Cell‐Free Vascular Grafting
Authors: Ha Hyun‐su , Baek Sewoom , Lee Kyubae , Cho Sungwoo , Cho Min Jeong , Chung Seyong , Choi Hyeongyun , Lee Chan Hee , Kim Min Seok , Kim Si Yeong , Kim Dae‐Hyun , Kang Sang‐Wook , Sung Hak‐Joon
Published: March 2024

The control paradigm of small vessel pathophysiology has changed to focus on the vascular out‐wall rather than the lumen‐intimal factors. As an emerging controller of the external wall, the microvasculature (“vasa vasorum”) provides interactional routes between the in‐and out‐sides of the vascular wall. Despite numerous approaches to developing small‐diameter vascular grafts, engineering artificial vasa vasorum (AVV) has not been projected as a multi‐functional solution to address long‐standing issues such as thrombotic and immune controls for wall regeneration. Here, the AVV is engineered using a microchannel network hydrogel after a multi‐study validation of implantation functions and then used to wrap the external wall of the cell‐free vessel post‐decellularization while preserving its mechanical properties. Upon inter‐positional and bypass grafting to rabbit arteries, the AVV graft facilitates the recruitment of vascular cells into the cell‐free wall by promoting invasion of angiogenic and vasculogenic cells through the microchannel‐mediated M2 polarization of macrophages. This function results in the efficient restoration of smooth muscle cells, and the revitalized vascular elasticity helps to maintain long‐term patency. The AVV, therefore, serves as an effective catalyst for vascular wall regeneration, offering a solution to clinically successful small‐diameter vascular grafting.
Localized Oxygen Control in a Microfluidic Osteochondral Interface Model Recapitulates Bone–Cartilage Crosstalk During Osteoarthritis
Authors: Ong Louis Jun Ye , Sun Antonia Rujia , Wang Zhongzheng , Lee Jayden , Prasadam Indira , Toh Yi‐Chin
Published: March 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by the dysregulation of the osteochondral interface between bone and cartilage. In vitro, osteochondral models are crucial for studying OA and testing treatments. However, current models are limited to replicating the extracellular matrix's structural and mechanical heterogeneity and do not account for the distinct oxygen gradients that chondrocytes and osteoblasts experience at the osteochondral interface. By using micropatterned granular hydrogels to control oxygen scavenging agents' delivery, maintaining <1% oxygen concentration in standard cell culture conditions. These hypoxic hydrogels allow primary human chondrocytes to exhibit a more anabolic phenotype, akin to hypoxic incubator conditions. Patterning of the hydrogels in a microfluidic device creates localized hypoxic environments that mimic the osteochondral interface, enabling co‐culture of chondrocytes with osteoblasts from non‐sclerotic and sclerotic subchondral bone. This co‐culture in differential oxygen conditions revealed that sclerotic osteoblasts induce collagen expression changes in chondrocytes through MMP13 and ADAM15 production, a phenomenon not observed in uniform oxygen environments. Additionally, this model uncovered extensive transcriptional changes involving NF‐κβ, TGF‐β/BMP, and IGF signaling pathways, induced by sclerotic osteoblasts, which are undetectable in normoxic co‐cultures. The microfluidic model with localized oxygen variations effectively simulates osteoblast‐chondrocyte interactions, offering significant insights into OA pathophysiology.
Suppressed Manganese Oxides Shuttling in Acidic Electrolytes Extends Shelf‐Life of Electrolytic Proton Batteries
Authors: Wu Sicheng , Guo Haocheng , Su Zhen , Jia Chen , Zhang Xinyi , Wang Shuhao , Zhao Tingwen , Meyer Quentin , Zhao Chuan
Published: March 2024

Aqueous proton batteries are promising candidates for the harvest and utilization of renewable yet intermittent energies. The redox couple of MnO2/Mn2+ is one of the most competitive cathodes to enable proton batteries with high voltage. However, electrolytic products of the MnO2/Mn2+ reactions tend to disperse into acidic electrolytes, and the composition of the electrolytic products as well as their influences on the counter electrode and the overall batteries are still unclear. Herein, the behaviors of the manganese electrolysis are studied with electrolytes of different proton concentrations and under variant current densities. The electrolytic products are disclosed to be ɛ‐MnO2 regardless of the acidities of electrolytes and report, for the first time, the dispersed MnO2 can chemically oxidize or dissolve the anode materials and subsequently induce self‐discharging. A membrane‐assisted protection strategy is proposed to prevent the free‐shuttle of MnO2 particles and mitigate the battery self‐discharging. Accordingly, a much‐enhanced shelf‐life performance (61.3% capacity retention over a one‐week rest) is achieved for pyrene‐4,5,9,10‐tetraone//MnO2 full‐cell. Furthermore, a customized device is developed with Nafion membrane, reaching excellent cycling stability (3000 cycles, 54 days) and a low self‐discharging rate. The findings and strategies for mitigating the self‐discharging issues are anticipated to advance the MnO2/Mn2+‐based aqueous batteries and beyond.
Human Nervous System Inspired Modified Graphene Nanoplatelets/Cellulose Nanofibers‐Based Wearable Sensors with Superior Thermal Management and Electromagnetic Interference Shielding
Authors: Zhu Zijuan , Tian Zhongyuan , Liu Yanze , Yue Shangzhi , Li Yongji , Wang Zhong Lin , Yu Zhong‐Zhen , Yang Dan
Published: March 2024

Wearable sensing technologies have witnessed rapid development in recent years due to their accessibility, functionality, and affordability. However, heat accumulation and electromagnetic interference in electronic components adversely affect the sensing performance and seriously damage human health. Herein, cellulose nanofibers (CNFs)‐based composites with high thermal conductivity (TC) and excellent electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance are prepared using CNFs as templates followed by coating with tannic acid non‐covalent and 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane covalent co‐modified graphene nanoplatelets (denoted as mGNPs) through a simple electrostatic self‐assembly method. The subsequent hot‐pressing process yield order and layer mGNPs in CNFs‐based composites with mGNPs distributed along the orientation and in close contact with CNFs, a fashion similar to the human nervous system. The resulting CNFs‐based composites reveal a high TC of 136.2 W/(m·K) and a superior EMI shielding effectiveness of 105 dB. Thus, they are used as wearable sensors based on the triboelectric effect to monitor human health in real‐time, as well as express emotion through Morse code. In sum, the proposed strategy provides an avenue to prolong the service life of flexible wearable sensors and ensure their safe use, promising for future wisdom in healthcare and smart robotics.