bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DETERMINAÇÃO DOS SALÁRIOS NUM MODELO DE SHIRKING-MATCHING COM INFORMAÇÃO ASSIMÉTRICA
Authors: Costa Rodolfo Ferreira Ribeiro , Evangelista Isaac Ricarte , Veras Marcio Correa
Published: August 2015

O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar a condição ótima para determinação do salário num modelo de Shirking-Matching onde o problema de moral hazard é presente. O cenário vigente é baseado num modelo de busca, onde as firmas e trabalhadores estabelecem o nível de salários através de um processo de barganha. As firmas são homogêneas e possuem livre entrada no mercado. Existem dois tipos de trabalhadores que vivem infinitamente: os educados/habilidosos e os não-educados/não-habilidosos. No equilíbrio, observa-se uma condição para equação de salário que deve proporcionar ao trabalhador um nível de renda superior o que seria obtido pelo mesmo quando ele se encontra na situação de desemprego. Ainda, a regra de determinação da função market tightness é dada pela seguinte condição: a contratação de um novo trabalhador deve gerar um fluxo de produto tal que o ganho proveniente de um posto de trabalho ocupado seja igual ao custo unitário de recrutamento descontado. Observou-se uma relação negativa entre o poder de barganha do trabalhador e a taxa de desemprego.
DESIGUALDADE DE RENDA NO BRASIL: UMA ANÁLISE PARA O PERÍODO DE 1994 E 2010
Authors: Gazonato Mariana Camarin , Gomes Alexandre Lopes , Reis Raphael Roberto de Goes
Published: August 2015

Este artigo investiga a hipótese de convergência absoluta e condicional do PIB per capita entre os estados brasileiros no período de 1994 a 2010. A metodologia se divide sem duas etapas. Na primeira etapa utiliza a Análise Exploratória de Dados Espaciais (AEDE) para verificar a existência de autocorrelação espacial, por meio da estatística I de Moran. Os resultados indicam presença de autocorrelação espacial nos dois anos analisados. Na segunda etapa do trabalho foi utilizado o modelo de convergência para verificar a existência de convergência absoluta e condicional. A análise de convergência absoluta e condicional mostrou a existência de convergência no período. Sendo que velocidade de convergência absoluta foi de 1,04% ao ano e o número de anos necessários para que haja convergência é de 67 anos. Portanto, nota-se que mesmo sendo um país com grande desigualdade, as políticas aplicadas neste período contribuíram para a redução das desigualdades no país.
Predictors and Influence of Goal Orientation on Self-Management and Health-Related Quality of Life after Lung Transplant
Authors: Zaldonis Jenna , Alrawashdeh Mohammad , Atman Kathryn S. , Fatigati Angela , Dabbs Annette DeVito , Bermudez Christian A.
Published: August 2015

Context—

Lung transplant recipients are encouraged to perform self-management behaviors to maximize health outcomes; however, performance is often less than ideal. Goal orientation is known to influence achievement of academic goals, but the influence of goal orientation on performance of self-management is unknown.

Objectives—

To identify characteristics at transplant that are predictive of higher goal orientation and examine relationships between Goal Orientation Index (GOI) subscores (Acting, Planning, Reflecting), self-management behaviors (adhering, self-monitoring, and communicating critical changes), and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) at 1 year after transplant.

Design—

A descriptive, secondary analysis of data from 33 lung transplant recipients who were assessed at transplant and followed for 1 year as part of a clinical trial. GOI subscores were dichotomized at the median to categorize recipients with high and low goal orientation. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of higher GOI subscores. Correlations between higher GOI subscores, self-management, and HRQOL were examined.

Results—

Lung transplant recipients reported relatively high mean GOI subscores (Acting, Planning, and Reflecting) and the 3 subscores were correlated ( r = 0.31–0.86). Self-care agency was the only significant predictor ( P = .04) of higher GOI (Reflecting). Lung transplant recipients with higher Planning and Reflecting subscores were more likely to adhere ( r = 0.36 and 0.46, respectively). Recipients with higher GOI subscores reported significantly better mental HRQOL ( r = 0.42–0.36). Recipients with higher GOI Planning or Acting subscores reported significantly less anxiety ( r = −0.39–0.46) and fewer depressive symptoms ( r = −0.40–0.43).

Conclusion—

Assessing goal orientation may offer a novel approach for promoting adherence and HRQOL after lung transplant.
Sustainability of Improvements in Medication Adherence through a Mobile Health Intervention
Authors: McGillicuddy John W. , Taber David J. , Mueller Martina , Patel Sachin , Baliga Prabhakar K. , Chavin Kenneth D. , Sox Luke , Favela April P. , Brunner-Jackson Brenda M. , Treiber Frank A.
Published: August 2015

Context—

Very few patient-centered, theory-guided programs for medication adherence and blood pressure control have been conducted in kidney transplant recipients.

Objective—

To evaluate preliminary indications of sustainability of improved blood pressure in kidney transplant recipients 12 months after completion of a 3-month randomized controlled trial of a mobile health pilot program to improve blood pressure and medication adherence.

Participants and Design—

A total of 18 of the 19 trial participants were contacted and all consented to inclusion in the retrospective analysis of their medical records showing their clinic-recorded systolic blood pressures at 3, 6, and 12 months following participation in the 3-month trial of a medical regimen self-management intervention.

Results—

A significant group difference in systolic blood pressure was observed longitudinally, indicating that the intervention group, as compared with the standard-care group, exhibited lower clinic-measured systolic blood pressures at the 12-month posttrial follow-up visit ( P = .01). At 12-month follow-up, success in establishing and sustaining control of systolic blood pressure (<131 mm Hg) was greater in the intervention group (50%) than in the control group (11%).

Conclusion—

Patients in the intervention group continued to exhibit lower systolic blood pressure than did patients in the control group 12 months after the trial ended, suggesting that the intervention may have a durable impact on blood pressure control that most likely reflects sustained medication adherence. These findings will aid in the development of an adequately powered randomized controlled trial to address the sustainable impact of the intervention program on medication adherence and blood pressure control.
Une démarche inductive en sociologie visuelle : le commentaire analytique
Authors: Cardi François
Published: August 2015

L’article s’efforce de mettre en oeuvre la méthode inductive en sociologie visuelle, en combinant une analyse des contenus de la photographie avec le commentaire de la forme photographique. Il s’agit donc d’un travail de réflexion sur la méthodologie du commentaire analytique où l’induction se marie au travail d’analyse. Les éléments de théorie qui se dégagent peu à peu sont empruntés à des références savantes en même temps qu’à ce qui ressort comme généralités du regard sur la photographie. Trois photographies, oeuvres de l’auteur de l’article, servent de support et d’exemples à la démarche et à la méthodologie.
Sins of the father: unravelling moral authority in the Irish Catholic Church
Authors: Donnelly Susie
Published: August 2015

It was not until the mid-1990s that the extent of child abuse within the Irish Catholic Church began to be investigated and reported by the Irish media, yet why did it take so long for these scandals to emerge? This article analyses how the Irish media investigated and reported on the Irish Catholic Church from a socio-historical perspective. Drawing from Bourdieu, analytical concepts of habitus, capital and field are employed to examine transformations in journalistic practice. By doing so, this article explores the symbolic power of the clergy in Catholic society and traces the erosion of their moral authority. The Bishop Eamonn Casey paternity scandal is analysed as a means of unpacking journalistic practice in the early 1990s, on the cusp of the widespread emergence of child sex abuse reports in the mainstream media. The case study builds from a series of semi-structured interviews with journalists who reported on clerical scandals, including religious affairs correspondents from the 1960s to present, and produces insight into the practices, perceptions and dispositions (habitus) of journalists over time. It is argued that the reporting of paternity scandals in the early 1990s reflects wider processes of social change taking place within the journalistic field and the religious field. While focusing on these specific fields as sites of inquiry, this study reveals the erosion of social and cultural barriers which finally led to the widespread reporting of clerical child abuse scandals in Ireland.
Collective identities and formal ideologies in the Irish grassroots pro-asylum seeker movement
Authors: Moran Niall
Published: August 2015

This article examines the relationship between formal ideologies and processes of collective identity construction across two key waves of mobilisation of pro-asylum-seeker groups in Ireland, namely radical anti-racism and the multicultural support group. In each period, a formal ideological stance delimited the scope of actions available to members. In examining the interplay between collective identity and ideology, the actions and trajectories of individual social movement organisations (SMOs) and the movement at large can be better understood. Processes of collective identity construction facilitated SMO members in creating conditional senses of ‘weness’. In instances, these challenged formal ideologies with differing results. In the case of radical anti-racism, it created a reformist/radical division among members. In the multicultural support group, it created a reformist/non-reformist division. These cleavages are crucial to understanding how the movement progressed over time. Collective identity work is understood as a means through which individuals can challenge or reinforce formal ideologies, thus playing a crucial role in the trajectories of the SMOs examined and their repertoire of actions.
Public versus private schools in Qatar: Is there a literacy gap?
Authors: Cheema Jehanzeb R.
Published: August 2015

Recent studies have suggested that performance-related differences between private and public schools disappear once student background characteristics are accounted for. However, given the sometimes significant variation in economic, social and cultural norms across countries these findings may not have universal relevance. The main purpose of this study was to determine whether or not literacy in private and public schools in Qatar differs in key areas such as mathematics, reading and science, and if such differences exist then whether or not they persist after controlling for student demographic characteristics such as age, gender, parental occupation, parental education, family wealth, cultural possessions and availability of educational resources at home. Our results indicate that there is indeed a significant mean difference in literacy between private and public schools in Qatar, and that this difference does not disappear even after controlling for student background characteristics. Implications were discussed.
An evaluation of the cooperative learning process by sixth-grade students
Authors: Genç Murat
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of cooperative learning on the science lessons achievement of primary school students and to designate their views on cooperative learning process. 135 sixth-grade students attending the same school took part in the study. The model of this study was the Solomon four-group model. In the study, the Cooperative Learning Process Scale and the Science Achievement Test were used to collect data. In the light of the findings, the cooperative learning activities done in the experimental group have meaningfully increased the student achievement in comparison to the control group. According to the findings, it was determined that the activities were prepared appropriately to the cooperative learning and that they were organised considering the basic principles of cooperative learning. 85.07 per cent of the students have stated that the activities done were appropriate for high level cooperative learning.
Effects of Self-Efficacy on Social Entrepreneurship in Education: A Correlational Research
Authors: Konakll Tuğba
Published: August 2015

The aim of this research is to determine the effects of pre-service teachers' self-efficacy on their social entrepreneurship characteristics. The population of this study consisted of 220 randomly selected pre-service teachers in Kocaeli University Faculty of Education in Turkey. General Self Efficacy Scale-Turkish Form and Pre-service Teachers' Entrepreneurship Characteristics Scale was applied to collect data. The study revealed that effort and persistence which are general self-efficacy dimensions predicted personal creativity and risk-taking features of social entrepreneurship. According to the findings of the study, initiative, effort and persistence dimensions predict the self-confidence which is a characteristic of social entrepreneurship. Finally it can be suggested that practices oriented to developing self-efficacy beliefs and social entrepreneurship characteristics should take a part in teacher training programs as these practices may help teachers about how to teach students various skills.
Seletividade de herbicidas para cana-de-açúcar no sistema Plene® em pré e pós-emergência
Authors: Bertolino Carmino Barbosa , Alves Pedro Luís Da Costa Aguiar
Published: August 2015

O sistema Plene® trata-se de uma nova tecnologia de plantio de cana que veio simplificar e agilizar a fase inicial da plantação, pois emprega mini toletes previamente tratados. Contudo, há uma carência de informações sobre a seletividade de herbicidas neste novo sistema e em virtude disso objetivou-se avaliar a fitotoxicidade de herbicidas comumente empregados no cultivo tradicional de cana-de-açúcar para o controle em pré e pós-emergência de plantas daninhas quando empregados no sistema Plene®. Foram desenvolvidos dois experimentos, um para a aplicação em pré e outro em pós-emergência. Em ambos foram plantados dois toletes por vaso de 5 L, previamente preenchidos com mistura composta por quatro partes de terra (extraída da camada arável de Latossolo Vermelho) para uma parte de torta de filtro. Após o plantio do primeiro experimento, foram feitas as aplicações dos herbicidas em pré-emergência (imazapic, sulfentrazone, ametryn, isoxaflutole, tebuthiuron, amicarbazone, mesotrione e testemunha sem aplicação). Para o segundo experimento, as aplicações dos herbicidas em pós-emergência foram realizadas aos 14 dias após a emergência das plantas, e os tratamentos constaram de sulfentrazone, ametryn, isoxaflutole, amicarbazone, ametryn + clomazone, diuron + hexazinone e testemunha sem aplicação. Foram realizadas avaliações de fitotoxicidade dos tratamentos, utilizando escala visual. Ao final dos experimentos realizou-se a avaliação da altura das plantas, número de perfilhos e número de folhas. Foi determinada a massa seca das folhas, do caule, da raiz, do tolete e foi contabilizado o número de rebrotas em cada vaso após dez dias o corte da cana-planta. Os herbicidas sulfentrazone, ametryn, tebuthiuron, amicarbazone e mesotrione foram seletivos à cana-de-açúcar ‘SP81-3250’ no sistema Plene® quando aplicados em pré-emergência, enquanto ametryn, sulfentrazone, ametryn + clomazone e diuron + hexazinone (468 g kg-1 + 132 g kg-1) foram seletivos em pós-emergência.
Controle de Urochloa plantaginea com herbicidas residuais e performance agronômica de dois cultivares de feijoeiro
Authors: Kalsing Augusto , Vidal Ribas Antônio
Published: August 2015

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da utilização de herbicidas residuais, aplicados em pré-emergência do feijoeiro, sobre a redução da infestação de plantas daninhas e o desempenho agronômico da cultura. Foram realizados dois experimentos a campo, sendo que um tinha o cultivar UFT -06 (Grupo Carioca, ciclo curto e porte ereto) e o outro o cultivar IPR Graúna (Grupo Preto, ciclo longo, hábito prostrado). Os tratamentos foram constituídos da aplicação dos herbicidas pendimethalin (1,2 e 1,4 kg ha-1) e trifluralin (1,2 e 1,4 kg ha-1); e, dimethenamid (1,4 e 1,6 kg ha-1) e S-metolachlor (1,4 e 1,6 kg ha-1), e mais testemunha com e sem (TSC) controle. Nas áreas experimentais predominavam infestação de Urochloa plantaginea (papuã). Avaliou-se a densidade e a massa desta espécie daninha, e o número de legumes e a produtividade do feijoeiro. Trifluralin foi o herbicida que mais reduziu a infestação da planta daninha e aumentou o rendimento do feijoeiro, quando comparado aos demais produtos. O cv. de feijão UTF-06 foi mais competitivo com U. plantaginea do que IPR Graúna. Os tratamentos com herbicida reduziram a infestação da infestante, mas isso não resultou em maior produtividade do feijoeiro, quando comparado com o tratamento capinado.
Dessecação da Brachiaria ruziziensis com paraquat antes da semeadura da soja
Authors: Costa Neumárcio Vilanova , Andrade Devair Carlos de , Dourado Rodrigo Fernando , Pavan Guilherme Cardoso , Costa Andréia Cristina Peres Rodrigues da
Published: August 2015

São escassas na literatura as informações referentes à dessecação de Brachiaria ruziziensis, principalmente com o uso de herbicidas de ação de contato. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar diferentes doses e volumes de calda do paraquat no manejo da dessecação da forrageira B. ruziziensis e os efeitos na cultura da soja e na supressão das plantas daninhas. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o de blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram dispostos num esquema fatorial 4 x 6 + 1, correspondente à avaliação de quatro doses do paraquat (100, 200, 400 e 800 g ha-1) em seis volumes de calda (67, 140, 199, 283, 323 e 396 L ha-1), além de uma testemunha sem aplicação. Para o estudo da dinâmica da população das plantas daninhas também foi utilizada uma testemunha em condição de pousio e outra somente com a cultura sem a presença de palha (capinada). Conclui-se que a dessecação de B. ruziziensis com paraquat foi eficiente até os 7 dias após a aplicação, sendo a maior eficiência obtida a partir da dose de 200 g ha-1, independentemente do volume de aplicação. A partir deste período as plantas da forrageira iniciaram um novo ciclo de crescimento e interferiram negativamente na produtividade da soja. A infestação das plantas daninhas foi reduzida nas áreas com B. ruziziensis em consórcio com a soja em relação à área em pousio.
Eficácia de herbicidas no controle de plantas daninhas e seletividade na cultura do amendoim Runner IAC 886
Authors: Luvezuti Rafael Alves , Bacha Allan Lopes , Alves Pedro Luís Da Costa Aguiar , Pavani Maria Do Carmo Morelli Damasceno , Nepomuceno Mariluce Pascoina
Published: August 2015

Objetivou-se verificar a eficácia e a seletividade de herbicidas aplicados isoladamente ou em mistura, no controle de plantas daninhas infestantes da cultura do amendoim Runner IAC 886. Para tanto, instalou-se um experimento a campo, em delineamento de blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos aplicados em pré-emergência foram: 1-imazapic, 3-imazapic + pendimetalina e 5-imazapic + trifluralina; os aplicados em pós-emergência foram: 2-imazapic, 4-imazapic + pendimetalina e 10-imazapic + (bentazon + paraquat); e os tratamentos com aplicação em pré seguido de pós, foram: 6-trifluralina e imazapic, 7-trifluralina e bentazon, 8-trifluralina e 2,4-D, 9-imazapic e bentazon + paraquat; além das testemunhas com e sem capina (tratamentos 11 e 12, respectivamente). Foram avaliados a eficácia dos herbicidas e os sintomas de intoxicação nas plantas de amendoim por avaliações visuais aos 7, 14, 21, 28, 45 e 90 dias após a aplicação, e após a colheita, a produtividade de vagens. Os tratamentos 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 e 8 não tiveram redução significativa na produtividade. O tratamento 10 foi o menos eficiente no controle das plantas daninhas e apresentou produtividade 47,3% menor que o tratamento 3 e 51,2% menor que a testemunha capinada. Conclui-se que para uma comunidade infestante composta principalmente por capim-carrapicho, carrapicho-de-carneiro, caruru, losna-branca, apaga-fogo e capim-pé-de-galinha, o melhor controle das plantas daninhas foi obtido por imazapic em pós-emergência; já a aplicação de imazapic + (bentazon + paraquat) em pós-emergência, não foi efetivo no controle das plantas infestantes, resultando em perdas de produtividade.
What Is the Appropriate Use of Renal Sonography in an Inner‐City Population With New‐Onset Acute Kidney Injury?
Authors: Gamss Rebecca , Stein Marjorie W. , Rispoli Joanne M. , Cohen Hillel W. , Roberts Jeffrey H. , Koenigsberg Mordecai , Mazzariol Fernanda S.
Published: August 2015

Objectives

We aimed to determine the prevalence of hydronephrosis in patients who underwent renal sonography for new‐onset acute kidney injury (AKI) and to identify clinical factors predictive of hydronephrosis. In patients with hydronephrosis, we sought to investigate how routine renal sonography affects patient treatment, including performance of interventional procedures.

Methods

A retrospective chart review identified 274 adults with AKI who underwent renal sonography at an urban teaching hospital from January through July 2011. The prevalence of hydronephrosis was determined. Electronic medical records were reviewed for comorbidities, including risk factors for hydronephrosis such as a pelvic mass, prior renal or pelvic surgery, and neurogenic bladder, and for subsequent interventions and outcomes.

Results

Sonography showed hydronephrosis in 28 patients (10%); 5 (18%) had subsequent interventions. In a multivariable logistic regression model with the outcome being hydronephrosis, all considered risk factors (pelvic mass, prior renal or pelvic surgery, and neurogenic bladder) were significantly associated with hydronephrosis (odds ratio, 6.4; 95% confidence interval, 2.7–15.4; P < .001) when adjusting for age and diabetes mellitus. Diabetes had a negative predictive value for hydronephrosis. No diabetic patients younger than 85 years and without clinical risk factors had hydronephrosis.

Conclusions

Hydronephrosis is infrequently seen on sonograms in hospitalized patients with AKI who lack risk factors for urinary tract obstruction. Deferral of sonography pending a trial of medical treatment is safe and will reduce medical costs. Adoption of clinical guidelines to assess patients' risk levels for hydronephrosis is critical to avoid unnecessary imaging.
Extension of the Thoracic Spine Sign
Authors: Dickman Eitan , Terentiev Victoria , Likourezos Antonios , Derman Anna , Haines Lawrence
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Dyspnea is a common emergency department (ED) condition, which may be caused by pleural effusion and other thoracic diseases. We present data on a new sonographic marker, the extension of the thoracic spine sign, for diagnosis of pleural effusion.

Methods

In this prospective study, we enrolled a convenience sample of undifferentiated patients who underwent computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen or chest, which was performed as part of their emergency department evaluations. Patients underwent chest sonography to assess the utility of the extension of the thoracic spine sign for diagnosing pleural effusion. The point‐of‐care sonographic examinations were performed and interpreted by emergency physicians who were blinded to information in the medical records. Sonographic results were compared to radiologists' interpretations of the CT results, which were considered the criterion standard.

Results

Forty‐one patients were enrolled, accounting for 82 hemithoraces. Seven hemithoraces were excluded from the analysis due to various limitations, leaving 75 hemithoraces for the final analysis. The median time for completion of the sonographic examination was 3 minutes. The sensitivity and specificity for extension of the thoracic spine were 73.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 48.6%–89.9%) and 92.9% (95%CI, 81.9%–97.7%), respectively. Overall, there were 5 hemithoraces with false‐negative results when using the extension sign. Of those 5 cases, 4 were found to have trace pleural effusions on CT. When trace pleural effusions were excluded in a subgroup analysis, the sensitivity and specificity of extension of the thoracic spine were 92.9% (95% CI, 64.2%–99.6%) and 92.9% (95% CI, 81.9%–97.7%).

Conclusions

We found the extension of the thoracic spine sign to be an excellent diagnostic tool for clinically relevant pleural effusion.
Neonatal Lung Sonography
Authors: Brusa Giacomo , Savoia Marilena , Vergine Michela , Bon Andrea , Copetti Roberto , Cattarossi Luigi
Published: August 2015

Objectives

To assess the reliability of lung sonography in neonates between physician interpreters with different degrees of experience.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed lung sonograms from neonates admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit with respiratory distress in the first 24 hours of life. The first scans were selected; only patients with available video clips documenting both hemithoraxes were included. The clips were independently examined by 4 different experienced observers blinded to clinical data. The interpreting physicians made a codified sonographic diagnosis, and the Cohen κ coefficient was used to measure the reliability between a proven experienced main interpreter and expert (κ1), intermediate (κ2), and beginner (κ3) control interpreters. We also calculated the specific agreement on respiratory distress syndrome and transient tachypnea of the neonate.

Results

Four hundred sixty‐five clips were taken from 114 neonates examined over a 16‐month period. The patients' median gestational age (range) was 34 weeks (25–41 weeks), and the median birth weight (range) was 2085 g (608–4134 g). Eighty‐eight percent of examinations were performed within 24 hours after birth. The overall κ coefficients (95% confidence intervals) were κ1 = 0.94 (0.88–1.00); κ2 = 0.72 (0.61–0.83); and κ3 = 0.81 (0.71–0.90). For respiratory distress syndrome, κ1 = 0.94 (0.87–1.00); κ2 = 0.90 (0.81–0.99); and κ3 = 0.87 (0.78–0.97). For transient tachypnea of the neonate, κ1 = 0.95 (0.89–1.00); κ2 = 0.76 (0.64–0.88); and κ3 = 0.81 (0.70–0.91).

Conclusions

In neonates with early respiratory distress, lung sonography has high interobserver agreement even between interpreters with varying levels of experience.
Comparison Between Various Color Spectra and Conventional Grayscale Imaging for Detection of Parenchymal Liver Lesions With B‐Mode Sonography
Authors: Merkel Daniel , Brinkmann Eckard , Kämmer Joerg C. , Köhler Miriam , Wiens Daniel , Derwahl Karl-Michael
Published: August 2015

Objectives

The electronic colorization of grayscale B‐mode sonograms using various color schemes aims to enhance the adaptability and practicability of B‐mode sonography in daylight conditions. The purpose of this study was to determine the diagnostic effectiveness and importance of colorized B‐mode sonography.

Methods

Fifty‐three video sequences of sonographic examinations of the liver were digitized and subsequently colorized in 2 different color combinations (yellow‐brown and blue‐white). The set of 53 images consisted of 33 with isoechoic masses, 8 with obvious lesions of the liver (hypoechoic or hyperechoic), and 12 with inconspicuous reference images of the liver. The video sequences were combined in a random order and edited into half‐hour video clips.

Results

Isoechoic liver lesions were successfully detected in 58% of the yellow‐brown video sequences and in 57% of the grayscale video sequences (P = .74, not significant). Fifty percent of the isoechoic liver lesions were successfully detected in the blue‐white video sequences, as opposed to a 55% detection rate in the corresponding grayscale video sequences (P= .11, not significant). In 2 subgroups, significantly more liver lesions were detected with grayscale sonography compared to blue‐white sonography.

Conclusions

Yellow‐brown–colorized B‐mode sonography appears to be similarly effective for detection of isoechoic parenchymal liver lesions as traditional grayscale sonography. Blue‐white colorization in B‐mode sonography is probably not as effective as grayscale sonography, although a statistically significant disadvantage was shown only in the subgroup of hyperechoic liver lesions.
Risk Evaluation of Immediate Surgical Failure During Thigh Hemodialysis Graft Placement by Sonographic Screening
Authors: Little Mark D. , Allon Michael , McNamara Michelle M. , Ong Song , Lockhart Mark E. , Young Carlton J. , Robbin Michelle L.
Published: August 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine whether preoperative sonographic evaluation of vascular diameters and calcification identifies patients at risk for immediate technical failure of thigh hemodialysis grafts.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 143 chronic hemodialysis patients who underwent thigh graft placement was performed. All patients underwent preoperative sonography to assess arterial and venous waveforms and vascular diameters. The degree of arterial calcification was assessed retrospectively. Patient characteristics and graft outcomes were examined. Statistical analyses were performed, with P< .05 considered clinically significant.

Results

Sonography identified no or mild arterial calcification in 113 of 143 patients (79%) and moderate to severe calcification in 30 of 143 patients (21%). Primary surgical technical failure occurred in 23% of patients (7 of 30) with moderate to severe calcification, compared to 3.5% (4 of 113) of those with no or mild calcification (hazard ratio, 6.59; 95% confidence interval, 2.06–21.05; P = .002). Cumulative graft survival (time to permanent failure) was shorter in patients with moderate to severe arterial calcification (3‐year graft survival, 37% versus 56%; hazard ratio, 2.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.48–6.69; P= .003) but was not significantly associated with venous (P= .82) or arterial (P = .43) diameters.

Conclusions

Preoperative sonographic assessment of thigh vessel diameters and calcification can identify patients who may be at risk for immediate technical graft failure and decreased cumulative graft survival. The use of sonography as a screening examination may improve preoperative assessment and surgical planning of hemodialysis thigh grafts.
Thirty-Year Trends in Perioperative Mortality Risk for Living Kidney Donors
Authors: Massie Allan B. , Motter Jennifer D. , Snyder Jon J. , Levan Macey L. , Segev Dorry L.
Published: August 2024

This study uses a national registry study to characterize temporal trends in perioperative mortality in donors and risk factors associated with this event.
Disability Identity and Perceptions of Institutional Fairness and Climate in Academic Medicine
Authors: Altamirano Jonathan , Fassiotto Magali , Salles Arghavan , Sutha Ken , Maldonado Yvonne , Poullos Peter
Published: August 2024

This cross-sectional study examines whether students and employees with or without disabilities at a major academic medical center in the US feel respected and are treated equitably at their institution
Parastomal Hernia Prevention Using Funnel-Shaped Intra-Abdominal Mesh Compared to No Mesh
Authors: Mäkäräinen Elisa , Wiik Heikki , Nikberg Maziar , Kössi Jyrki , Carpelan-Holmström Monika , Pinta Tarja , Lehto Kirsi , Nikki Marko , Järvinen Jyri , Ohtonen Pasi , Rautio Tero
Published: August 2024

Importance

Prophylactic placement of a mesh has been suggested to prevent parastomal hernia. Evidence to support this practice is contradictory.

Objective

To determine whether funnel-shaped permanent synthetic parastomal mesh is effective and safe in parastomal hernia prevention.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Chimney Trial was a randomized single-blinded multicenter trial conducted in 4 hospitals in Finland and 1 in Sweden from February 2019 and September 2021. Of 439 patients with rectal adenocarcinoma undergoing either laparoscopic or robotic-assisted abdominoperineal resection or the Hartmann procedure, 143 were enrolled in the trial, 135 received their allocated intervention, and 121 were analyzed at 12-month follow-up. Data were analyzed from December 2023 to May 2024.

Intervention

In the intervention group, a permanent colostomy was created with a funnel-shaped intraperitoneal mesh and compared to a control group with a stoma without the mesh.

Main Outcome and Measure

The primary end point was the incidence of computed tomography (CT)–confirmed parastomal hernia 12 months after surgery.

Results

There were 68 patients (mean [SD] age, 68.7 [11.6] years; 36 [53% male and 32 [47%] female) who received the intended allocation in the mesh group and 67 (mean [SD] age, 66.4 [11.7] years; 48 [72%] male and 19 [28%] female) who received the intended allocation in the control group. CT scans were available for 58 patients in the mesh group and 59 patients in the control group at the 12-month follow-up. CT scans confirmed parastomal hernia in 6 of 58 patients (10%) in the mesh group compared to 22 of 59 patients (37%) in the control group (difference, 27%; 95% CI, 12-41; P < .001). Clinical parastomal hernia as a secondary outcome was recorded in 1 of 60 patients (2%) in the mesh group compared to 27 of 61 (43%) in the control group (difference, 41%; 95% CI, 29-55; P < .001). The number of patients with Clavien-Dindo class II ileus was 23 (35%) in the mesh group compared to 11 (17%) in the control group (difference, 18%; 95% CI, 3-32; P = .006). Only slight differences between the groups were detected in other stoma-related complications, readmissions, operative time, surgical site infections, reoperations, and quality of life.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, funnel-shaped parastomal mesh prevented a significant number of parastomal hernias without predisposing patients to mesh- or stoma-related complications during 12-month follow-up. The results of this study suggest the funnel-shaped mesh is a feasible option to prevent parastomal hernia.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03799939
Prediction of Time–Temperature–Transformation Diagrams of NiAl Alloy: An Evaluation of Intelligent Algorithms
Authors: Hernández‐Flores Leonardo , Talavera‐Rivera Luis Fernando , García‐Moreno Angel‐Iván
Published: August 2024

Time‐temperature‐transformation diagrams are essential in the field of metallurgy. However, constructing these diagrams through empirical and simulating methods can be time‐consuming and expensive. Therefore, there is a need to develop accurate and affordable alternatives that can rapidly predict TTT diagrams. The present study offers a novel analysis of multiple algorithms for predicting TTT diagrams, as well as an examination of various data preprocessing techniques (data augmentation ‐ DA and exploratory data analysis ‐ EDA). A database is created by integrating multiple data sources and increased using DA by ensuring the synthetic data remains physically realistic and meaningful. Subsequently, an EDA is performed to prepare the data before its use in training. The influence of each hyperparameter on the prediction was studied and optimal hyperparameter configuration was defined for each algorithm. The performance of the algorithms is evaluated using RMSLE, RMSE, R2, Mean IoU, and SMAPE. The multilayer perceptron demonstrated the greatest robustness in predicting TTT curves. Additionally, the Ft‐Transformer is a viable alternative if an appropriately sized dataset is available. These results provide valuable insights into the use of Machine Learning techniques as a new alternative in predicting isothermal transformation curves.
Hydrophilic and Insulative Interface Strategy Against Side Reactions for Dendrite‐Free Zinc Metal Anodes
Authors: Liu Kunlun , Li Yifan , Zhang Tian , Zhu Anquan , Gan Guoqiang , Lin Dewu , Liu Kai , Luan Chuhao , Bu Shuyu , Zhang Xiubo , Yang Yi , Yu Chang , Wu Yan , Hong Guo , Zhang Wenjun
Published: August 2024

The zinc dendrite growth and the parasitic hydrogen evolution reactions (HER) hinder the commercialization of zinc batteries. To address this, a hydroxyl‐rich Boehmite coating (HR‐BC) strategy is developed that combines excellent electrical insulation and high zinc ion conductivity. The hydrophilic hydroxyl groups facilitate hydrogen bond formation with the hydrated zinc ions, accelerating the de‐solvation process and suppressing the HER. Additionally, the electrically insulative nature of Boehmite prevents the reduction of zinc ions within HR‐BC and results in preferential Zn deposition underneath it, leading to a dendrite‐free “sandwich structure” of HR‐BC//Zn deposition//Zn foil. Symmetric cells using HR‐BC‐Zn electrodes obtain an ultralong and stable cycling lifetime of 1700 h at 5 mA cm−2, along with a high cumulative plating capacity of 4250 mAh cm−2. When paired with a V2O5 cathode, the HR‐BC‐Zn anode demonstrates a high capacitance retention of 90% and an average Coulombic efficiency (CE) of 99.8% after 4000 cycles. Furthermore, when combined with a heteroatoms‐doped carbon (HDC) cathode, the HR–BC–Zn//HDC pouch‐type cell exhibits superior lifetime performance with nearly 100% average CE after 15000 cycles at 3.0 A g−1. This work highlights the effectiveness of hydrophilic and insulative coating strategies in fostering the progression of long‐lasting zinc‐based energy storage systems.
Sustained Antibiotic Release from Biodegradable Gelatin–Silica Hybrid for Orthopedic Infections
Authors: Lin Yu‐Chien , Lee Chin‐Yun , Jones Julian R. , Liu Wai‐Ching , Cho Nam‐Joon , Hu Chih‐Chien , Chung Ren‐Jei
Published: August 2024

Antibiotic‐loaded polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) beads are commonly employed to treat prosthetic joint infections (PJI) and chronic osteomyelitis due to their excellent mechanical strength. However, PMMA's non‐degradability results in a burst release of antibiotics and potential renal toxicity, necessitating additional surgeries for bead removal. There is a critical need for infection control materials that can deliver antibiotics effectively, maintain adequate mechanical strength, and degrade uniformly. This study introduces a gelatin–silica hybrid antibiotic carrier, characterized by covalent bonds between the gelatin and silica networks. The incorporation of the silica network enhances the compressive strength to 32.53 ± 2.4 MPa and ensures uniform degradation over 6 months, aligning with clinical timelines. Furthermore, the gelatin–silica hybrid can support up to 10 wt% antibiotic loading without compromising its properties, making it a promising candidate for next‐generation infection control materials.
Fringing‐Effect‐Based Capacitive Proximity Sensors
Authors: Niu Hongsen , Li Hao , Li Ning , Niu Hongkai , Li Yang , Gao Song , Shen Guozhen
Published: August 2024

Proximity sensing technology, which can obtain information without physical contact, has become an ideal choice in scenarios where physical contact is not feasible. Despite substantial advancements in tactile sensing, proximity sensing technology still holds great potential and has yet to be fully developed. Among numerous proximity sensing technologies, the fringing‐effect‐based capacitive proximity sensor (FE‐CPS) has garnered considerable attention due to its low cost, low power consumption, wide sensing range, and flexible and versatile structural design. However, research on FE‐CPS has not yet formed a complete system, and its development and intellectualization are still in their infancy, urgently requiring a systematic review to advance its development. This paper systematically summarizes the recent advances in FE‐CPS, from basic theory to practical applications. The working principle and typical structure of FE‐CPS are first introduced, followed by a discussion of methods for optimizing device performance. Furthermore, the application scenarios of FE‐CPS in intelligent pre‐alarm systems, intelligent control systems, and intelligent material perception systems are reviewed. Finally, the future development and challenges faced by FE‐CPS are prospected.
Coaxial 3D Printing Enabling Mn/CHA@Pd/CHA Zeolite‐Based Core–Shell Monoliths for Efficient Passive NOx Adsorbers
Authors: Li Dan , Wei Yingzhen , Zhang Tianjun , Bai Yang , Qi Youji , Han Jinfeng , Li Li , Yu Jihong
Published: August 2024

Pd‐based zeolites are extensively used as passive NOx adsorbers (PNA) for cold‐start NOx emissions to meet stringent emission regulations. However, optimizing adsorber design to reduce Pd usage with substitution by non‐noble metals that are prone to suffer from H2O remains a significant challenge. Herein, the core–shell Mn/CHA@Pd/CHA zeolite monoliths based on non‐noble metal/zeolite core are constructed using coaxial 3D printing technology and identified as efficient passive NOx adsorbers for the first time. In the Mn/CHA@Pd/CHA monolith, the Pd/CHA shell effectively protected the Mn active sites in the core from H2O, while the integration of the Mn/CHA core not only introduced efficient storage sites but also facilitated NOx desorption, thereby achieving comparable adsorption properties and increased the NOx desorption efficiency by 35% at 350 °C compared with that of Pd/CHA monolith. Furthermore, some non‐noble metal‐based zeolites (e.g., Co/CHA, Mn/MFI, Mn/BEA) and Pd‐based zeolites (e.g., Pd/AEI) are also employed as cores and shells respectively to fabricate a series of core–shell zeolite monoliths via coaxial 3D printing, highlighting the benefits of incorporating non‐noble metals into Pd‐based zeolites for improving adsorption and desorption behaviors. This work provides a promising strategy for designing cost‐effective PNA materials and contributes to improving the exhaust after‐treatment technology.
Facile‐Prepared Size‐Controllable Nanogels for Enhancing Bidirectional Translocation, Control Efficiency, and Security of Nanopesticide
Authors: Wu Tianyue , Wang Yunpei , Liu Siyang , Zheng Zirui , He Chengyi , Yao Wenxuan , Zhang Chenhui , Gu Yucheng , Gao Yuxia , Du Fengpei
Published: August 2024

Nanopesticides have been acknowledged by International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry as a critical tool for revolutionizing future agricultural practices. However, the existing nanopesticides are often plagued by high costs, strict preparation conditions, uncontrollable size, and poor stability. Herein, taking the non‐systemic insecticide lambda‐cyhalothrin (LC) as a model pesticide, a series of LC‐loaded poly(octyl acrylate) nanogel formulations (LONFs) simultaneously featuring easy‐preparation, size‐controllable, and targeted delivery using microemulsion polymerization are developed. By adjusting the ratio of surfactants, the size of LONFs can be accurately designed to be 20, 50, 100, and 200 nm, exhibiting good stability under unconventional storage conditions (0 °C, 54 °C, ultraviolet radiation). Furthermore, reducing the particle diameter enhances the bidirectional translocation of LONFs in Vicia faba L., potentially reaching an optimal diameter (≈20 nm) for unique and rapid transport. LONFs increase the acute toxicity of LC to Aphis craccivora compared to conventional microemulsions (with a maximum reduction of 82.40% in LC50 at 24 h). Additionally, LONFs alter the lethal process of LC in human embryonic kidney 293T cells, with minimal cytotoxicity at a concentration of general application (40 mg L−1). This strategy simultaneously considers convenience, size controllability, and efficiency, providing a feasible method for the industrial development of nanopesticides.
Wafer‐Scale Transfer of MXene Films with Enhanced Device Performance via 2D Liquid Intercalation
Authors: Xu Xiangming , Thomas Simil , Guo Tianchao , Luo Linqu , Khan Yusuf , Yuan Yue , Elhagrasy Youssef A. , Lanza Mario , Anthopoulos Thomas D. , Bakr Osman M. , Mohammed Omar F. , Alshareef Husam N.
Published: August 2024

Wafer‐scale transfer processes of 2D materials significantly expand their application space in scalable microelectronic devices with excellent and tunable properties through van der Waals (vdW) stacking. Unlike many 2D materials, wafer‐scale transfer of MXene films for vdW contact engineering has not yet been reported. With their rich surface chemistry and tunable properties, the transfer of MXenes can enable enormous possibilities in electronic devices using interface engineering. Taking advantage of the MXene hydrophilic surface, a straightforward, green, and fast process for the transfer of MXene films at the wafer scale (4‐inch) is developed. Uniform vdW stacking of several types of large‐area heterojunctions including MXene/MXene (Ti3C2Tx, Nb2CTx, and V2CTx), MXene/MoS2, and MXene/Au is further demonstrated. Multilayer support is applied to minimize damage or deformation in the transfer process of patterned Ti3C2Tx film. It allows us to fabricate thin film transistors and manipulate the MXene/MoS2 interface through the intercalation of various 2D liquids. Particularly noteworthy is the significant enhancement of the interfacial carrier transfer efficiency by ≈2 orders of magnitude using hydrogen iodide (HI) intercalation. This finding indicates a wide range of possibilities for interface engineering by transferring MXene films and employing liquid‐assisted interfacial intercalation.
Effective Out‐Of‐Plane Thermal Conductivity of Silicene by Optothermal Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Bonaventura Eleonora , Dhungana Daya. S. , Massetti Chiara , Pedrini Jacopo , Grazianetti Carlo , Martella Christian , Pezzoli Fabio , Molle Alessandro , Bonera Emiliano
Published: August 2024

Silicene has recently been revisited as a 2D material with potential thermoelectric applications. Here, the thermal properties of supported silicene are determined by optothermal Raman spectroscopy. Single and multilayer silicene is grown either directly on silver (Ag) substrates or on an intermediate tin (Sn) monolayer, introduced to reduce the influence of the substrate on the physical properties of silicene. Experimental values of an effective cross‐plane thermal conductivity of 0.5 W/mK are obtained for silicene on Ag and 0.3 W/mK for silicene on stanene‐Ag. The values of the interfacial thermal conductance, on the other hand, are 0.3 and 0.5 GW/m2K, respectively. Heterostack engineering is confirmed as a versatile strategy for extracting relevant physical parameters in silicene and for modulating the thermal response in the 2D limit.
Simulation Study for Nb‐Doped MoS2${\rm MoS}_2$ Layer in CZTS‐Based Solar Cells: Assessment of Challenges
Authors: Mazumder Santu , Borgohain Supriya , Kasilingam Senthilkumar
Published: August 2024

The unintentional formation of a layer as a reaction product between the copper zinc tin sulfide (CZTS) thin film and the Mo back contact reduces cell efficiency due to high sheet resistance and carrier recombination. To limit the formation of , an intentionally grown p‐type Nb‐doped layer can serve as an effective hole transport layer. This study presents a detailed study and calculations for CZTS/Mo‐based solar cells, providing guidelines for calibration. Optimizing cell efficiency is influenced by various interconnected factors in Nb‐doped . While a high carrier concentration in Nb‐doped is assumed to enhance efficiency, other parameters such as band state, optical absorption, and carrier mobility also play crucial roles and can limit cell performance. This simulation study evaluated the effect of Nb‐doped layers with different carrier concentrations to determine the optimal conditions for this p‐type layer. This work reveals that a very thin layer (13 nm) of Nb‐doped p‐type can achieve a maximum efficiency of 11.34% (with = 1.5 ) and that for an Nb‐doped p‐type 62 nm is 15.82 % (with = 4.03 ).