bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SMALL SAMPLE BIAS CORRECTION FOR HUBER'S PROPOSAL‐2 SCALE M‐ESTIMATOR
Authors: Clarke Brenton R. , Milne Christopher J.
Published: December 2004

The most popular and perhaps universal estimator of location and scale in robust estimation, where the population is normal with possible small departures, is Huber's Proposal‐2 M‐estimator. This paper gives the first‐order small sample bias correction for the scale estimator, verifying the calculation through theory and simulation. Other ways of reducing small sample bias, say by jackknifing or bootstrapping, can be computationally intensive, and would not be routinely used with this iteratively derived estimator. It is suggested that bias‐reduced estimates of scale are most useful when forming confidence intervals for location and/or scale based on the asymptotic distribution.
SHARP BOUNDS FOR EXPECTATIONS OF kTH RECORD INCREMENTS
Authors: Danielak Katarzyna , Raqab Mohammad Z.
Published: December 2004

This paper presents sharp bounds for expectations of non‐adjacent increments of kth record statistics, measured in various scale units, for a sequence of independent identically distributed random variables with continuous cumulative distribution function. The results for kth record spacings are considered as special cases. The paper also characterizes probability distributions for which the bounds are attained.
INFERENCE IN DIRICHLET PROCESS MIXED GENERALIZED LINEAR MODELS BY USING MONTE CARLO EM
Authors: Naskar Malay , Das Kalyan
Published: December 2004

Generalized linear mixed models are widely used for describing overdispersed and correlated data. Such data arise frequently in studies involving clustered and hierarchical designs. A more flexible class of models has been developed here through the Dirichlet process mixture. An additional advantage of using such mixture models is that the observations can be grouped together on the basis of the overdispersion present in the data. This paper proposes a partial empirical Bayes method for estimating all the model parameters by adopting a version of the EM algorithm. An augmented model that helps to implement an efficient Gibbs sampling scheme, under the non‐conjugate Dirichlet process generalized linear model, generates observations from the conditional predictive distribution of unobserved random effects and provides an estimate of the average number of mixing components in the Dirichlet process mixture. A simulation study has been carried out to demonstrate the consistency of the proposed method. The approach is also applied to a study on outdoor bacteria concentration in the air and to data from 14 retrospective lung‐cancer studies.
Wildlife trade and endangered species protection
Authors: Missios Paul C.
Published: December 2004

Markets for endangered species potentially generate incentives for both legal supply and poaching. To deter poaching, governments can spend on enforcement or increase legal harvesting to reduce the return from poaching. A leader–follower commitment game is developed to examine these choices in the presence of illegal harvesting and the resulting impacts on species stocks. In addition, current trade restrictions imposed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora are examined. With Cournot conjectures among poachers, the model details the subgame perfect equilibrium interactions between poaching levels, enforcement and legal harvesting.
Mind Your Head
Authors: Cook Adrian
Published: December 2004

Bicycle helmets are intended to reduce the risk of head injury to a cyclist. The modern style of helmet contains a thick layer of polystyrene designed to compress and absorb the energy of an impact; this is usually covered by a hard exterior. Helmets have been around for some 20 years but their effectiveness remains in question and, as Adrian Cook explains, is the subject of a heated debate.
Bioterrorism: The Statistical Issues
Authors: Halloran Elizabeth , Longini Ira
Published: December 2004

Bioterrorism research has had an upsurge since the autumn of 2001. Elizabeth Halloran and Ira Longini describe particular contributions that statisticians and mathematical modellers can make to bioterrorism research related to infectious diseases. They argue that much can be learned from emerging infectious diseases that is applicable to potential bioterrorist threats.
Career Story: Medical Statistician
Authors: Coleman Ruth
Published: December 2004

Ruth Coleman would have liked to become a doctor or nurse, but claims she didn't have the intelligence for the first or the temperament for the second. Instead, as she tells Helen Joyce, she uses statistics to help to improve the quality of life and life expectancy of diabetics.
Manufacturing concessions: attritionary outsourcing at General Motor’s Lordstown, USA assembly plant
Authors: Sallaz Jeffrey J.
Published: December 2004

Workers at the General Motors (GM) auto assembly factory in Lordstown, Ohio, USA, fabled in the industrial sociology literature because of their militancy during a 1972 labor dispute, have over the past decade approved a succession of contracts whittling down the labor force from 12,000 to around 3000 today. These reductions were accomplished by ‘attritionary outsourcing’. To explain why labor has accepted such job loss, this interview project with Lordstown workers extends accepted accounts of deindustrialization by considering the political, material and ideological conditions underlying concessionary bargaining. As the tactic known as ‘whipsawing’ became less credible and consequential, GM turned to tactics that actively secure worker consent to job loss. Here one can see the replacement of Burawoy’s hegemonic despotism by a despotic hegemony.
Processing Characteristics of TEEK Polyimide Foam
Authors: Hou Tan-Hung , Weiser Erik S. , Siochi Emilie J. , St. Clair Terry L.
Published: December 2004

High performance polymeric foams have experienced a growing demand in aerospace applications such as cryogenic insulation, flame-retardant panels and structural sub-components. The Next Generation Launch Technology (NGLT) program requires foams capable of retaining their structural integrity while providing insulating capabilities in a liquid hydrogen environment. NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) and Unitika Ltd co-developed a polyimide foam processed from a fine powder of salt-like foaming precursor isolated from solution via solvent evaporation. This paper reports the foaming characteristics of this precursor based on rheometric, calorimetric, thermogravimetric and chromatographic characterization methods. The degree of foaming varied significantly as a function of process heating rate and hold temperatures. Results from the battery of measuring techniques employed afford a complete picture of the foaming and curing mechanism for the subject polyimide foam.
New AB Polyetherimides Obtained by Direct Polycyclocondensation of Aminophenoxy Phthalic Acids
Authors: Buzin Pavel V. , Yablokova Marina Yu. , Kuznetsov Alexander A. , Smirnov Alexey V. , Abramov Igor G.
Published: December 2004

The one-pot, high temperature, catalytic synthesis of polyetherimides (PEIs) in molten benzoic acid was investigated. The synthesis was conducted using the AB monomers, 4-aminophenoxy phthalic acid (IIa) and 3-aminophenoxy phthalic acid (IIb). Both Homo and co-PEIs with different ratios of substituted AB IIa and IIb were prepared and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and wide angle X-ray diffraction. The solubility of the polymers in a variety of solvents was also investigated. Homo-poly-lib is an amorphous thermoplastic that is soluble in CHC13 DMS8 and amide-type solvents. Homo-poly-IIa has a locally ordered structure and is insoluble. Properties of the IIa/IIb copolymers depend strongly on their composition. When the IIa/Hlb ratio is 30: 70 or less, co-PEIs behave as thermoplastic substances soluble in chloroform. At an IIa/lIb ratio in the starting mixture of 40: 60 or higher, the properties of co-PEIs are similar to that of poly-IIa.
Polyetherimide/Montmorillonite Nanocomposites via in-situ Polymerization followed by Melt Processing
Authors: Delozier D. M. , Working D. C.
Published: December 2004

Montmorillonite clay modified with the dihydrochloride salt of 1,3-bis(3-aminophenoxy) ben-zene (APB) was used in the preparation of polyetherimide(PEI)/organoclay hybrid films, powders, fibers, and rods. An APB-based organoclay that was optimized for charge was prepared and examined for dispersion behavior in a PEI under various processing conditions. High molecular weight poly(etheramide acid) (PEAA) solutions were prepared separately and in the presence of the organoclay at a weight loading of 3%. The neat PEAA and hybrid mixtures were converted to the PEI via thermal curing without solvent and by chemical and thermal imidization in solution. The mixtures that were thermally cured in an oven yielded thin films that were characterized for dispersion as well as mechanical properties. The PEIs prepared in the latter two methods were obtained as powders after precipitation in water. The neat and hybrid powders prepared via thermal imidization in solvent were dried and processed by melt mixing and extrusion. Aliquots were collected at different points in the processing cycle and clay dispersion evaluated via x-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The clay dispersion of the PEI/organoclay powders was generally poor but was enhanced after melt mixing and extrusion. The mechanical properties of the fibers that had been prepared by melt mixing and extrusion were determined. The addition of clay increased the moduli in all of the samples whereas the strength and elongation decreased. The decrease on the strength and elongation was less pronounced after processing in the melt.
Use and awareness of Electronic Information Services by students at Glasgow Caledonian University
Authors: Crawford John , De Vicente Angel , Clink Stuart
Published: December 2004

This paper is the latest in a series of studies of EIS (electronic information services) usage and information literacy among staff and students at Glasgow Caledonian University and builds on previous work elsewhere. It reports on two surveys conducted in March 2002 and October 2002-February 2003 respectively and thus offers a longitudinal perspective. The questionnaires were administered both on paper and electronically and the results compared but no differences in data collected could be detected. The results showed a growth in usage in the relatively short period between the two surveys and subject area studied proved to be the main determinant of EIS usage, followed by integration into the programme. Mode of attendance is an issue and off-Campus usage is growing, with an increasing emphasis on workplace access. The catalogue was found to be no longer ‘the key to the library’ and gateways and links were little used. A relationship between student progression and retention and EIS usage was identified.
Is research an untapped resource in the library and information profession?
Authors: Mcnicol Sarah
Published: December 2004

Traditionally, the library and information profession has not been strongly research led in the way in which other professions, such as medicine and education for example, might be considered to be. However, it may be that the extent of practitioner involvement in research and the extent to which research informs practice have been underestimated. The article reports on a survey designed to scope present and planned involvement in research within a variety of library sectors and to identify the priorities for future research as seen by practitioners. It also investigated the main barriers which prevent practitioners having greater involvement in research. It concludes that there is scope for much more effective communication between all types of library and information researchers and practitioners and also for greater recognition of practitioner research.
Notes on Theories of an INC Phase in Quartz
Authors: Ericksen J. L.
Published: December 2004

Complications encountered in the α ↔ β phase transition in quartz have long puzzled workers. Experts now believe that this involves a third intermediate (incommensurate) phase. A theory of this has been proposed and favorable comments about it have been made by experimentalists. While I think that the basic idea is interesting, I am not happy with the way it has been developed. This paper is my attempt to do a critical review of the slightly different forms of the theory that have been proposed.
Evaluating Crime Fears
Authors: Farrall Stephen , Gadd David
Published: December 2004

Numerous projects aim to reduce not only crime but also the fear of crime. Reviews of the survey tools used to measure the fear of crime suggest that these tools may suffer from poor design. It is contended here that as well as suffering from poor design, these tools fail to address a number of important issues which evaluators and policy makers will be interested in: namely the prevalence, frequency and severity of fearful episodes. An alternative question structure that measures prevalence, frequency and severity of fearful episodes, and addresses design faults is discussed herein.
Risk and responsibility: the potential of peer teaching to address negative leadership
Authors: Morrison Morag
Published: December 2004

The article describes a cross-age peer teaching project which sought to explore the potential of peer teaching in encouraging disruptive secondary school pupils to participate more positively in school. Two Year 9 girls from a challenging urban secondary school were selected to teach a group of Year 6 pupils in the nearby primary school. The Year 9 students had been identified as negative leaders - popular, but disengaged from academic learning. However, there was one area of the curriculum in which the students were engaged - drama. The project involved the girls at each step of the intervention, encouraging them to feel that they were stakeholders in the learning of others. This experience revealed some of the reasons why the girls had become negative leaders. The study also suggests the contribution that constructive challenge can make to developing the self-esteem and confidence necessary for changes of behaviour.
‘It makes sense to me’: reforming classrooms from the bottom-up: a case study in change
Authors: Riley Kathryn , Jordan Jill
Published: December 2004

This article describes a change initiative which began in 2002: Woolwich Reach and Plumstead Pathfinder Action Zones (WRaPP). WRaPP has involved 17 primary, secondary and nursery schools in a deprived part of Greenwich, South London, and although nationally funded (through the UK Government’s Education Action Zones), it has been locally driven. The authors outline the local context and challenges and give details of WRaPP’s change and improvement strategy and capacity building framework. Drawing on a range of sources, including evaluation data, they provide evidence of the success of the initiative in generating trust, unleashing energy and creativity, and inspiring and engaging headteachers, teachers and pupils.
Understanding creativity and its implications for schools
Authors: Hayes Denis
Published: December 2004

After issuing a flood of missives about education during its time in office, the Government is now actively encouraging the exploitation of creativity and offering schools the opportunity to be more flexible in their interpretation and teaching of the curriculum. This apparent change of heart has left school leaders and classroom practitioners with the formidable task of interpreting and evaluating its implications, in which they face two main challenges. First, to understand what creativity means and how it can be implemented. Second, to develop the confidence to be more innovative while not adversely affecting test results.
To think or not to think: a preliminary investigation into the effects of teaching thinking
Authors: Simister Jane
Published: December 2004

Opinion may be unnecessarily divided as to whether it is possible to teach skills such as critical and creative thinking as subjects in their own right or whether students would more usefully develop such skills within the context of their curriculum subjects. A study was undertaken into the effects of teaching a 25-lesson ‘thinking skills’ syllabus to a group of Year 5 pupils. The results suggested that pupils’ curiosity, inventiveness, discussion skills, ability to think laterally about given situations, and understanding of the decision-making process can all be enhanced through specific skills teaching. This would imply that a longer-term programme could have a significant impact. A two-pronged approach is proposed, where thinking skills - rather like reading and writing - are taught initially in a child friendly, exam-free context and then are integrated throughout the curriculum.
When teaching makes a difference: a case study on language teaching in the final primary year
Authors: Picaroni Beatriz
Published: December 2004

Achievement in reading and writing does not only depend on the initial school years. This article considers language teaching once children have finished their first stage in developing these competencies. It is based on Uruguayan Primary School research, in which some final grade classes, in poor socio-cultural environments, were studied over a six-month period. This article describes some teaching strategies used with the two classes that achieved the highest final results and made the greatest progress, in comparison to those used in the class that achieved the lowest final results and made the least progress. In conclusion, theoretical reflection is undertaken in order to interpret the empirical findings.
Critical friends: supporting leadership, improving learning
Authors: Swaffield Sue
Published: December 2004

Critical friendship is a versatile form of external support for school colleagues engaged in leadership activities, and one that is subject to increasing professional and political interest. This article focuses upon the contribution of critical friends supporting leadership and school improvement in a range of contexts, including an international research project, school self-evaluation, and networking. It draws upon activities of ‘Leadership for Learning: the Cambridge Network’ to explore the role and functioning of critical friends by addressing 10 questions. The article concludes by summarizing the insights that can be gleaned from the examples of critical friendship in operation, and suggests that as the use of critical friends to support leadership in schools becomes more of the norm there is a need both to draw upon what is already known about critical friendship, and to extend our understanding.
Lethal inhalation exposure during maintenance operation of a hydrogen fluoride liquefying tank
Authors: Dote Tomotaro , Kono Koichi , Usuda Kan , Shimizu Hiroyasu , Kawasaki Takashi , Dote Emi
Published: December 2004

Calcium sulfate adheres to the inside of liquefying pipes during the production of liquefied hydrogen fluoride. It is regularly washed away with water jets every six months. Two days before the operation, the pipes were experimentally washed down with water and the safety of the operation was confirmed with acidic washing fluid (pH 5). A 65-year-old man was severely sprayed on his face just after the start of the operation. He died half an hour later from acute respiratory failure. High serum concentrations of ionized fluoride indicated massive exposure to hydrofluoric acid (HFA). Pathological findings revealed severe bilateral pulmonary congestion and edema. It was hypothesized that calcium sulfate hardened with the water during the experimental washing and caused some blockages in the pipes. Consequently, choking of the pipes caused the HFA to collect and the washing fluid ran back. Weak HFA is not pungent to skin and mucous membranes. Therefore, it was suggested that a low concentration of HFA was inhaled directly into the peripheral respiratory tracts. No risk management against HFA exposure was in place during the operation. It is especially important to take thorough safety measures against inhalation of HFA. It is also essential that there are no stoppages of the pipes before the operation.
In vivo and in vitro estrogen bioactivities of alkyl parabens
Authors: Lemini Cristina , Jaimez Ruth , Ávila María Estela , Franco Yanira , Larrea Fernando , Lemus Ana Elena
Published: December 2004

The alkyl esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid known as parabens (Pbens) are used as preservatives in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. They have been reported as estrogenic. Here, we present evidence for the in vivo and in vitro bioactivities and receptor binding affinities of methylparaben (MePben), ethylparaben (EtPben), propylparaben (PrPben), and butylparaben (BuPben) compared with those of estradiol (E2). Estrogenicity was studied using the uterotrophic assay in immature (Im) and adult ovariectomized (Ovx) CD1 mice, and in immature female Wistar rats (IW). Animals were subcutaneously (sc) treated for three consecutive days with different molar equivalent doses ranging from 3.62 to 1086 mmol/kg body weight of Pbens, E2 (0.036 mmol/kg), or vehicle. Pbens increased uterine weight in Im and Ovx animals and their relative uterotrophic effect to E2 (100) (RUEE2) were from 34 to 91. The relative uterotrophic potencies related to E2 (100) (RUPE2) of these compounds were from 0.003 to 0.007. The E2 ED50 for CD1 animals able to increase the uterine weight was 7 mg/kg (0.9 -55 confidence limits); and that of Pbens ranged from 18 to 74 mg/kg. In IW rats, the ED50 were from 33 to 338 mg/kg. All Pbens, except MePb, competed with [3H]E2 for the estrogen receptor binding sites. The uterotrophic effects of Pbens in Im mice have a positive correlation with the side-chain length of the ester group of these compounds. The E2 and Pbens relative binding affinities (RBA) and Ki values correlated to their estrogenic activity. The NOELs values for Pbens uterotrophic activity in Im were from 0.6 to 6.5 mg/kg per day; and Ovx from 6 to 55 mg/kg. The NOELs IW ranged from 16.5 to 70 mg/kg indicating that Im were more susceptible than Ovx and IW to these effects. The data shown here confirm the estrogenicity of Pbens.
Hazardous waste site frequency: use of the capture-recapture method
Authors: Lange J H , Chang Y F , LaPorte R E , Mastrangelo G
Published: December 2004

This investigation used a two-source capture-recapture method (CRM) for determining ascertainment and undercounts of non-national priority listed hazardous waste sites in the states of Arizona, Maine and Pennsylvania. These findings suggest that ascertainment of hazardous waste sites vary greatly, with some more accurate (i.e., Maine) than others (i.e., Pennsylvania). These data suggest that nontraditional manufacturing states (e.g., Maine) have a higher ascertainment rate than traditional manufacturing states (e.g., Pennsylvania). These results indicate that resources for locating hazardous waste sites should be more heavily allotted to industrialized areas. We suggest that the CRM is a convenient, low cost and effective method for determining (1) the accuracy of previous estimates, and (2) the number of sites in a locale with 95% confidence intervals along with an estimate of the undercount. Findings suggest that estimates of hazardous waste sites should use the CRM to determine and improve accuracy.
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced activation of the immune system in control rats and rats chronically exposed to a low level of the organothiophosphate insecticide, acephate
Authors: Singh A K , Jiang Y
Published: December 2004

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a key inflammatory component of gram-negative bacteria, induces a distinctive pattern of cytokine release that regulates inflammation. An alteration in the LPS response may play a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of a number of inflammatory diseases. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine whether chronic exposure to a low level of acephate (Ace), a commonly used organophosphate insecticide, impaired the LPS response in rats. This study showed that LPS injection in control rats caused (1) a time-dependent increase in blood lymphocyte enumeration and differentiation, and (2) a sequential increase the pro-inflammatory (interleukin-1b (IL1b), tumor necrosis factor-a (TNFa), interferon-g (INTg), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)) and anti-inflammatory (interleukin-4 (IL-4), corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), and blood corticosterone (Cort)) cytokines. The pro-inflammatory cytokines increased after 30 min, while the anti-inflammatory cytokines increased 3 h after LPS injection. An increase in proinflammatory cytokines increased lymphocyte enumeration and differentiation, while the increase in anti-inflammatory cytokines re-established homeostasis. In comparison to the control rats, the Ace-exposed rats exhibited (1) lower levels of IL1b, TNFa and iNOS, (2) higher levels of CRF and Cort, and (3) lower levels of IL-4 in blood and/or brain samples. The abnormal cytokine production may be associated with abnormal phenotypic distribution of B and T cells. Blood IgMhiIgDhi, IgMloIgDlo and CD8+ CD45RA −CCR7+ cells were elevated, while IgMloIgDhi, IgMhiIgDlo, IgMinIgDlo, CD8+ CD45RA +CCR7+ and CD8+ CD45RA− CCR7+ cells were depressed in Ace-exposed rats. Thus, chronic low-level Ace exposure may impair the lineage commitment in lymphocytes, possibly by altering cytokine signaling in the brain.
Speciation study on complex formation of uranium(VI) with phosphate and fluoride at high temperatures and pressures by time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy
Authors: Kirishima Akira , Kimura Takaumi , Tochiyama Osamu , Yoshida Zenko
Published: December 2004

The complex formation of U(VI) with phosphate and with fluoride has been studied at elevated temperatures (20–150 °C) and pressures (0.1–40 MPa) using time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (TRLFS). Emission spectra and lifetimes of 5×10–5 M uranium(VI) in 0.5 M NaClO4 solutions in the presence and absence of ligand ions were measured as a function of the pH, ligand concentration, temperature and pressure. The emission intensities and lifetimes of uranium(VI) decreased rapidly with increasing temperature. In contrast, a pressure effect on the fluorescence properties was quite small. The fluorescence decay curves could be resolved into several fluorescent species. The temperature dependence of the lifetimes followed the Arrhenius law, and the activation energies were estimated for the phosphate and fluoride complexes. These results were compared with speciation calculations at several temperatures obtained by using the DQUANT equation and thermodynamic data in the literature. From these comparisons, each component of the fluorescence was identified as a complexed species or a free uranyl ion at several temperatures, indicating that the Arrhenius plot of fluorescence lifetime is an effective method for in-situ speciation of uranyl complexation at elevated temperatures.
Investigation of evaporation characteristics of polonium and its lighter homologues selenium and tellurium from liquid Pb-Bi-eutecticum
Authors: Neuhausen Jörg , Köster U. , Eichler B.
Published: December 2004

The evaporation behaviour of polonium and its lighter homologues selenium and tellurium dissolved in liquid Pb-Bi-eutecticum (LBE) has been studied at various temperatures in the range from 482 K up to 1330 K under Ar/H2 and Ar/H2O-atmospheres using γ-ray spectroscopy. Polonium release in the temperature range of interest for technical applications is slow. Within short term (1 h) experiments measurable amounts of polonium are evaporated only at temperatures above 973 K. Long term experiments reveal that a slow evaporation of polonium occurs at temperatures around 873 K resulting in a fractional polonium loss of the melt around 1% per day. Evaporation rates of selenium and tellurium are smaller than those of polonium. The presence of H2O does not enhance the evaporation within the error limits of our experiments. The thermodynamics and possible reaction pathways involved in polonium release from LBE are discussed.
Synergistic extraction of Ce(III), Eu(III) and Tm(III) with a mixture of picrolonic acid and tributylphosphine oxide in chloroform
Authors: Ali Akbar
Published: December 2004

Synergistic extraction of Ce(III), Eu(III) and Tm(III) as a representative of lanthanides(III) with a mixture of picrolonic acid {1-p-nitrophenyl-3-methyl-4-nitro-5-pyrazolon (HPA)} acting as an acidic chelating agent and tributylphosphineoxide (TBPO) as a neutral ligand in chloroform from pH 2 buffer solution has been studied. The composition of the synergistic adduct has been determined to be M(PA)3·2TBPO (M=Ce(III), Eu(III), Tm(III)). The effect of various anions and cations on the extraction of these metal ions has also been studied. Among the anions, fluoride, oxalate, citrate and cyanide ions masked the extraction, whereas Fe(III) and Cu(II) reduced the extraction to ∼90%. The formation constant, and separation factor from various metal ions has also been determined and discussed.
Induction Chemotherapy Followed by Radiotherapy vs Chemoradiotherapy in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Dai Jinxuan , Zhang Bin , Su Yixin , Pan Yufei , Ye Zhenkai , Cai Rui , Qin Guanjie , Kong Xiangyun , Mo Yunyan , Zhang Rongjun , Liu Zhengchun , Xie Yuan , Ruan Xiaolan , Jiang Wei
Published: February 2024

Importance

Induction chemotherapy plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy is recommended for locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma but is associated with higher rates of acute toxic effects and low compliance. Evidence on de-escalating treatment intensity after induction chemotherapy is limited.

Objective

To assess if radiotherapy was noninferior to chemoradiotherapy after induction chemotherapy for locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Design, Setting, and Participants

From April 2015 to March 2018, a multicenter, open-label, randomized, noninferiority, phase 3 trial was conducted at 5 Chinese hospitals. A total of 383 patients aged 18 to 70 years with an untreated histologically confirmed nonkeratinizing tumor, Karnofsky performance status score not worse than 70, proper organ function, and stage III to IVB nasopharyngeal cancer were enrolled. Data were analyzed from April 2023 to June 2023.

Interventions

Patients were assigned randomly. Both groups received 3 cycles of induction chemotherapy consisting of intravenous administration (on day 1) of cisplatin at 60 mg/m2 and docetaxel at 60 mg/m2 and continuous intravenous infusion (from day 1 to day 5) of daily fluorouracil (600 mg/m2), repeated every 21 days. Subsequently, the patients received radiotherapy alone (induction chemotherapy in combination with radiotherapy [IC-RT] group) or concomitant cisplatin (30 mg/m2/week) with radiotherapy for 6 to 7 weeks (induction chemotherapy combined with chemoradiotherapy [IC-CCRT] group).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was 3-year progression-free survival (time from the initiation of therapy until the first indication of disease progression or death), with a noninferiority margin of 10%. The secondary end points included overall survival, locoregional failure-free survival, distant metastasis-free survival, response rate, and toxic effects.

Results

A total of 383 patients (median [range] age, 48 [19-70] years; 100 women [26%]). Median follow-up time was 76 months (IQR, 70-89 months). The 3-year progression-free survival was 76.2% and 76.8% in the IC-RT (n = 193) and IC-CCRT groups (n = 190), respectively, in the intention-to-treat population, showing a difference of 0.6% (95% CI, –7.9% to 9.1%; P = .01 for noninferiority). Identical outcomes were reported in the per-protocol population. The incidence of grade 3 to 4 short-term toxic effects in the IC-RT group was less than the IC-CCRT group. No differences were observed in late toxic effects.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this randomized clinical trial suggest that after induction chemotherapy for locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma, radiotherapy alone was noninferior to chemoradiotherapy in terms of 3-year progression-free survival.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02434614
Sociodemographic and Clinical Predictors of Prolonged Length of Corneal Ulcer Hospitalizations
Authors: Akosman Sinan , Li Renxi , Kwon Bryan , West William , Asahi Masumi , Wroblewski Keith J.
Published: February 2024

Importance

The length of stay (LOS) of hospitalizations may be a useful indicator of the burden of disease of corneal ulcers. Identifying variables associated with longer LOS may help to enhance delivery of care for high-risk patients.

Objective

To investigate the sociodemographic, social, and clinical factors associated with LOS in hospitalizations for corneal ulcers in the US.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study of adult patients (aged >18 years) admitted with a primary diagnosis of corneal ulcer between quarter 4 of 2015 through 2020 and conducted using data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS). Patients were stratified into 2 even cohorts based on LOS: LOS of 4 days or less and LOS greater than 4 days. Individual-level sociodemographic, social risk factors, and medical comorbidities associated with longer LOS were examined by multivariable regression. Data were analyzed from October 2015 to December 2020.

Exposure

Potential sociodemographics or medical comorbidities at hospital admission.

Main Outcome and Measure

The primary outcome of interest was factors associated with extended length of stay. The hypothesis being tested was formulated during data collection.

Results

A total of 1187 patients (mean [SD] age, 53.5 [20.9] years; 602 female [50.7%]) were included for analysis. The cohort with LOS greater than 4 days had higher total charges than the cohort with LOS of 4 days or less (mean [SD] charges, $79 504 [$86 719] vs $26 474 [$20 743]; P < .001). Sociodemographic variables associated with LOS greater than 4 days were Black race (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.41; 95% CI, 1.03-1.92; P = .03), Medicare insurance (aOR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.09-1.85; P = .009), and housing insecurity (aOR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.29-3.06; P = .002). Medical comorbidities associated with LOS greater than 4 days were alcohol use (aOR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.00-2.26; P = .05), dementia (aOR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.36-4.07; P = .002), complicated diabetes (aOR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.21-2.53; P = .003), uncomplicated diabetes (aOR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.02-2.42; P = .04), drug misuse (aOR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.08-2.57; P = .02), and legal blindness (aOR, 3.42; 95% CI, 1.19-9.82; P = .02). Based on NIS national estimates, corneal ulcers were estimated to have a direct annual health care expenditure of $35 819 590 in the US.

Conclusion and Relevance

Corneal ulcer hospitalizations represent a significant burden of disease for patients and health care systems. This study highlights sociodemographic and clinical factors that may help clinicians identify high-risk patients vulnerable to complications and morbidity due to corneal ulcers.
High FLT3 expression increases immune‐cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment and correlates with prolonged disease‐free survival in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Kuncman Łukasz , Orzechowska Magdalena , Milecki Tomasz , Kucharz Jakub , Fijuth Jacek
Published: February 2024

Most of the currently used cancer immunotherapies inhibit the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1)–programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PDL1) axis of T‐cells. However, dendritic cells (DCs) controlled by natural killer (NK) cells via the FMS‐related tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) axis are necessary for activation of T‐cells. The aim of the study was to evaluate FLT3 as a prognostic factor and determine its role in immune infiltration (with emphasis on NK cells and DCs). Using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, we performed bioinformatic analysis of the gene expression datasets of 501 lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) and 515 lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patient who had corresponding clinical data [analysis was performed in R (version 4.2.0)]. Disease‐free survival (DFS) differed between the FLT3‐low and FLT3‐high expression groups, respectively, in LUSC (61.0 vs 71.3 months P = 0.075) and LUAD (32.7 vs 47.5 months P = 0.045). A tumor microenvironment (TME) with high immune infiltration and rich in T‐cell exhaustion markers was observed in the FLT3‐high group. We showed overexpression of NK cell and DC gene signatures in the FLT3‐high expression group as well as overexpression of key effector genes of the cyclic GMP‐AMP synthase (cGAS)–stimulator of interferon genes protein (STING) pathway, which is crucial in response to radiotherapy. High expression of FLT3 in the TME was associated with immune cell infiltration (especially of NK cells and DCs), increased expression of T‐cell exhaustion markers and expression of effector genes of the cGAS‐STING pathway, which may consequently increase susceptibility to immunotherapy and radiotherapy. High FLT3 expression correlated with prolonged DFS in the LUSC and LUAD cohorts.
Chemotherapy Assessment in Advanced Multicellular 3D Models of Pancreatic Cancer: Unravelling the Importance of Spatiotemporal Mimicry of the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Gupta Priyanka , Bermejo‐Rodriguez Camino , Kocher Hemant , Pérez‐Mancera Pedro A. , Velliou Eirini G.
Published: February 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a challenge for global health with very low survival rate and high therapeutic resistance. Hence, advanced preclinical models for treatment screening are of paramount importance. Herein, chemotherapeutic (gemcitabine) assessment on novel (polyurethane) scaffold‐based spatially advanced 3D multicellular PDAC models is carried out. Through comprehensive image‐based analysis at the protein level, and expression analysis at the mRNA level, the importance of stromal cells is confirmed, primarily activated stellate cells in the chemoresistance of PDAC cells within the models. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that, in addition to the presence of activated stellate cells, the spatial architecture of the scaffolds, i.e., segregation/compartmentalization of the cancer and stromal zones, affect the cellular evolution and is necessary for the development of chemoresistance. These results highlight that, further to multicellularity, mapping the tumor structure/architecture and zonal complexity in 3D cancer models is important for better mimicry of the in vivo therapeutic response.
A Rolled Mg–8Al–1Sm–1Zn Alloy with High‐Strength Ductility via Single‐Pass Liner Rolling
Authors: Zhang Tong , Yu Yandong , Fu Banghao , Yan Zehua , Wang Jingze , Luo Junting
Published: February 2024

In this article, the microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg–8Al–1Sm–1Zn alloy prepared by multi‐pass conventional rolling and single‐pass liner rolling are investigated. The alloy is subjected to multi‐pass conventional rolling with a cumulative deformation of 60% and single‐pass liner rolling with a deformation of 60% after solution‐treated (T4 temper) at 400 °C, respectively. In the results, it is shown that the best mechanical properties are obtained by single‐pass liner rolling at 400 °C with a deformation of 60% deformation under the combined effect of grain refinement and precipitation strengthening. The average grain size of the alloy is 7.2 μm and the microhardness is 80 HV. The tensile yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation at room temperature are 255 MPa, 285 MPa, and 12.7%, which are 14.9%, 15.3%, and 10.4% higher than those of the conventional multi‐pass rolled alloy, respectively.
Preparation of Epoxy Resin/Carbon Black Superhydrophobic Photothermal Materials with Shape Memory Capacity for Anti/De‐Icing
Authors: Hao Saisai , Zhan Yanlong , Li Wen , Zhao Wenxuan , Amirfazli Alidad
Published: February 2024

The accumulation of ice can cause damage to various equipment, resulting in numerous economic losses. One promising solution for anti/de‐icing is the use of superhydrophobic materials powered by solar energy. In this study, a multilayer superhydrophobic photothermal materials with anti/de‐icing ability is prepared. First, an epoxy resin (EP) substrate with microstructure is prepared by the template method. Then carbon black (CB) nanoparticles are sprayed on the substrate as the photothermal layer. Finally, fluorine‐modified resin is dip‐coated as the hydrophobic modified layer. The light absorption of this material is 1.6 in the wavelength range of 400–2000 nm. The surface temperature rose to 114.2 °C within 270 s under 1 sun illumination. Additionally, the materials can respond to light stimulation and exhibit shape memory, with a shape recovery rate close to 100%. The air cushions in the micro‐nanostructures delayed the droplet freezing time by nearly two times. The good photothermal properties endowed the materials with photothermal de‐icing performance, which improved the de‐icing efficiency by almost 2.2 times. Furthermore, the materials demonstrate outstanding durability that can resist to mechanical wear, acid‐base corrosion, and UV aging, thermal stability, and self‐cleaning properties, making it highly suitable for outdoor equipment applications.
Highly‐Sensitive, Tri‐Modal Luminescent Manometer Utilizing Band‐Shift, Ratiometric and Lifetime‐Based Sensing Parameters
Authors: Szymczak Maja , Jaśkielewicz Julia , Runowski Marcin , Xue Junpeng , Mahlik Sebastian , Marciniak Lukasz
Published: February 2024

In addressing the broad spectrum of applications for optical pressure sensors, their predominant drawback lies in their limited sensitivity to pressure fluctuations. To overcome these constraints, this study introduces a luminescent manometer harnessing the emission properties of Cr3+ ions in Li3Sc2(PO4)3, operational in three distinct reading modes: spectral shift, ratiometric, and lifetime‐based. Notably, the conducted research establishes this luminescent manometer as the most sensitive reported to date in both spectra shift (λ/dp = 23.9 nm/GPa) and lifetime‐based (SR = 93.56%/GPa) modes. A departure from conventional lifetime‐based luminescent pressure gauges, Li3Sc2(PO4)3:Cr3+ exhibits a prolongation of lifetime of the 4T2 state correlated with increasing pressure. The advantages extend beyond sensitivity, encompassing a three‐fold surge in emission intensity with pressure escalation from ambient to 3 GPa, coupled with minimal susceptibility to temperature‐induced fluctuations. Unquestionably, Li3Sc2(PO4)3:Cr3+ showcases remarkable manometric performance, validating its significant application potential in diverse scenarios within the realm of optical pressure sensors.
In Situ‐Sprayed Bioinspired Adhesive Conductive Hydrogels for Cavernous Nerve Repair
Authors: Wang Shuting , Wang Zhenqing , Yang Wei , Xu Zhen , Dai Hao , He Fupo , Yan Shengtao , Shi Xuetao
Published: February 2024

Cavernous nerve injury (CNI), resulting in erectile dysfunction (ED), poses a significant threat to the quality of life for men. Strategies utilizing conductive hydrogels have demonstrated promising results for the treatment of peripheral nerves with a large diameter (>2 mm). However, integrating convenient minimally invasive operation, antiswelling and immunomodulatory conductive hydrogels for treating small‐diameter injured cavernous nerves remains a great challenge. Here, a sprayable adhesive conductive hydrogel (GACM) composed of gelatin, adenine, carbon nanotubes, and mesaconate designed for cavernous nerve repair is developed. Multiple hydrogen bonds provide GACM with excellent adhesive and antiswelling properties, enabling it to establish a conformal electrical bridge with the damaged nerve and aiding in the regeneration process. Additionally, mesaconate‐loaded GACM suppresses the release of inflammatory factors by macrophages and promotes the migration and proliferation of Schwann cells. In vivo tests demonstrate that the GACM hydrogel repairs the cavernous nerve and restores erectile function and fertility. Furthermore, the feasibility of sprayable GACM in minimally invasive robotic surgery in beagles is validated. Given the benefits of therapeutic effectiveness and clinical convenience, the research suggests a promising future for sprayable GACM materials as advanced solutions for minimally invasive nerve repair.
PbS Quantum Dots Ink with Months‐Long Shelf‐Lifetime Enabling Scalable and Efficient Short‐Wavelength Infrared Photodetectors
Authors: Wang Han , Pinna Jacopo , Romero David Garcia , Di Mario Lorenzo , Koushki Razieh Mehrabi , Kot Mordechai , Portale Giuseppe , Loi Maria Antonietta
Published: February 2024

The phase‐transfer ligand exchange of PbS quantum dots (QDs) has substantially simplified device fabrication giving hope for future industrial exploitation. However, this technique when applied to QDs of large size (>4 nm) gives rise to inks with poor colloidal stability, thus hindering the development of QDs photodetectors in short‐wavelength infrared range. Here, it is demonstrated that methylammonium lead iodide ligands can provide sufficient passivation of PbS QDs of size up to 6.7 nm, enabling inks with a minimum of ten‐week shelf‐life time, as proven by optical absorption and solution‐small angle X‐ray scattering. Furthermore, the maximum linear electron mobility of 4.7 × 10−2 cm2 V−1 s−1 is measured in field‐effect transistors fabricated with fresh inks, while transistors fabricated with the same solution after ten‐week storage retain 74% of the average starting electron mobility, demonstrating the outstanding quality both of the fresh and aged inks. Finally, photodetectors fabricated via blade‐coating exhibit 76% external quantum efficiency at 1300 nm and 1.8 × 1012 Jones specific detectivity, values comparable with devices fabricated using ink with lower stability and wasteful methods such as spin‐coating.
Biomimetic Multimodal Receptors for Comprehensive Artificial Human Somatosensory System
Authors: Chen Cheng , Xu Jie‐Long , Wang Quan , Li Xin‐Lin , Xu Feng‐Qi , Gao Yu‐Cheng , Zhu Yin‐Bo , Wu Heng‐An , Liu Jian‐Wei
Published: February 2024

Electronic skin (e‐skin) capable of acquiring environmental and physiological information has attracted interest for healthcare, robotics, and human–machine interaction. However, traditional 2D e‐skin only allows for in‐plane force sensing, which limits access to comprehensive stimulus feedback due to the lack of out‐of‐plane signal detection caused by its 3D structure. Here, a dimension‐switchable bioinspired receptor is reported to achieve multimodal perception by exploiting film kirigami. It offers the detection of in‐plane (pressure and bending) and out‐of‐plane (force and airflow) signals by dynamically inducing the opening and reclosing of sensing unit. The receptor's hygroscopic and thermoelectric properties enable the sensing of humidity and temperature. Meanwhile, the thermoelectric receptor can differentiate mechanical stimuli from temperature by the voltage. The development enables a wide range of sensory capabilities of traditional e‐skin and expands the applications in real life.