bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Le vécu d'impuissance chez le soignant : entre pertes et élan retrouvé
Authors: Delieutraz Séverine
Published: November 2012

Résumé Au cours de leur parcours professionnel, les soignants peuvent parfois éprouver un vécu d’impasse lors de certaines prises en charge. Comment ce vécu peut-il être pensé et ainsi dépassé ? Au cours de la réflexion, il apparaîtra que, bien souvent, le soignant devra lui-même entrer dans un processus de renoncement pour mieux « prendre soin » et vivre sa profession de manière plus apaisée.
The World Health Organization African region external quality assessment scheme for anti-HIV serology
Authors: Cham Fatim , Maleka Mahlatse , Masango Martin , Goetsch Emma , Belabbes El H. , Singh Beverley , Gershy-Damet Guy M. , Puren Adrian
Published: November 2012

A regional external quality assessment scheme (REQAS) for anti-HIV serology aimed to objectively assess reliability and quality of HIV testing processes in the African region. This involved the distribution of proficiency testing (PT) panels to participating laboratories from 2002 to 2010. During the survey period, this included 16 distributions of PT panels to 49 laboratories in 30 countries, and the overall average score during the nine-year survey period was 98.9%, with a frequency of accurate detection, of anti-HIV-1 and/or anti-HIV-2 antibodies in the PT panels, ranging from 93% to 100%. Problems highlighted included lack of human resources and frequent stock outs of test kits, reagents and consumables for routine HIV testing. The design of the REQAS allowed appraisal of the reliability of anti-HIV serological testing methods utilised by laboratories for clinical assessment of patients and/or surveillance programmes. The REQAS was able to demonstrate that laboratories participating in the REQAS performed well and sustained their participation in the scheme. This bodes well for clinical diagnosis, surveillance and training activities at these reference laboratories.
Gemeentes as begeleiers van kollektiewe rouprosesse
Authors: Boshoff Willem S.
Published: November 2012

Local congregations as facilitators of collective grieving. Since 1990 South Africa has been characterised by far-reaching change in all spheres of society. A recent PhD dissertation completed at the University of Pretoria described the loss members of the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) experience because of the rapid change. Experiences of loss are common enough to be described as collective experiences of a community. Resulting grief processes are long standing and unresolved. Grieving is the normal human response to loss, but many DRC members (and probably the denomination and the whole Afrikaans community), got stuck because of unresolved grief dynamics. The main contribution of this article is to argue that local communities of faith can serve its members and the community by accepting the task to initiate and guide collective grief processes. Intentional grief is seen as a ministry of hope, resulting in a new and more appropriate identity.
A two-phase problem with a lower-dimensional free boundary
Authors: Allen Mark , Petrosyan Arshak
Published: November 2012

For a bounded domain

D\subset \R^n

, we study minimizers of the energy functional

J(u)=\int_{D}{|\nabla u|^2}\,dx + \int_{D \cap (\mathbb R^{n-1} \times \{0\} )}{\lambda^+ \chi_{ \{u > 0\} } + \lambda^- \chi_{ \{u<0\} }}\, d\mathcal H^{n-1},

without any sign restriction on the function

u

. One of the main result states that the free boundaries

\Gamma^+ = \partial \{u(\cdot,0) > 0\}\quad \text{and}\quad \Gamma^- = \partial \{u(\cdot, 0) < 0\}

never touch. Moreover, using Alexandrov-type reflection technique, we can show that in dimension

n=3

the free boundaries are

C^1

regular on a dense subset.
Uniqueness and existence of spirals moving by forced mean curvature motion
Authors: Forcadel Nicolas , Imbert Cyril , Monneau Régis
Published: November 2012

In this paper, we study the motion of spirals by mean curvature type motion in 1 the (two dimensional) plane. Our motivation comes from dislocation dynamics; in this context, spirals appear when a screw dislocation line reaches the surface of a crystal. The first main result of this paper is a comparison principle for the corresponding parabolic quasi-linear equation. As far as motion of spirals are concerned, the novelty and originality of our setting and results come from the fact that, first, the singularity generated by the attached end point of spirals is taken into account for the first time, and second, spirals are studied in the whole space. Our second main result states that the Cauchy problem is well-posed in the class of sub-linear weak (viscosity) solutions. We also explain how to get the existence of smooth solutions when initial data satisfy an additional compatibility condition.
Topology optimization methods with gradient-free perimeter approximation
Authors: Amstutz Samuel , Van Goethem Nicolas
Published: November 2012

In this paper we introduce a family of smooth perimeter approximating functionals designed to be incorporated within topology optimization algorithms. The required mathematical properties, namely the

\Gamma

-convergence and the compactness of sequences of minimizers, are first established. Then we propose several methods for the solution of topology optimization problems with perimeter penalization showing different features. We conclude by some numerical illustrations in the contexts of least square problems and compliance minimization.
Particulate sulfate ion concentration and SO2 emission trends in the United States from the early 1990s through 2010
Authors: Hand J. L. , Schichtel B. A. , Malm W. C. , Pitchford M. L.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. We examined particulate sulfate ion concentrations across the United States from the early 1990s through 2010 using remote/rural data from the Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments (IMPROVE) network and from early 2000 through 2010 using data from the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) urban Chemical Speciation Network (CSN). We also examined measured sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from power plants from 1995 through 2010 from the EPA's Acid Rain Program. The 1992–2010 annual mean sulfate concentrations at long-term rural sites in the United States have decreased significantly and fairly consistently across the United States at a rate of −2.7% yr−1 (p < 0.01). The short-term (2001–2010) annual mean trend at rural sites was −4.6% yr−1 (p < 0.01) and at urban sites (2002–2010) was −6.2% yr−1 (p < 0.01). Annual total SO2 emissions from power plants across the United States have decreased at a similar rate as sulfate concentrations from 2001 to 2010 (−6.2% yr−1, p < 0.01), suggesting a linear relationship between SO2 emissions and average sulfate concentrations. This linearity was strongest in the eastern United States and weakest in the West where power plant SO2 emissions were lowest and sulfate concentrations were more influenced by non-power-plant and perhaps international SO2 emissions. In addition, annual mean, short-term sulfate concentrations decreased more rapidly in the East relative to the West due to differences in seasonal trends at certain regions in the West. Specifically, increased wintertime concentrations in the central and northern Great Plains and increased springtime concentrations in the western United States were observed. These seasonal and regional positive trends could not be explained by changes in known local and regional SO2 emissions, suggesting other contributing influences. This work implies that on an annual mean basis across the United States, air quality mitigation strategies have been successful in reducing the particulate loading of sulfate in the atmosphere; however, for certain seasons and regions, especially in the West, current mitigation strategies appear insufficient.
Ammonia emissions from beech forest after leaf fall – measurements and modelling
Authors: Hansen K. , Sørensen L. L. , Hertel O. , Geels C. , Skjøth C. A. , Jensen B. , Boegh E.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The understanding of biochemical feed-back mechanisms in the climate system is lacking knowledge in relation to bi-directional ammonia (NH3) exchange between natural ecosystems and the atmosphere. We therefore study the atmospheric NH3 fluxes during a 25 days period during autumn 2010 (21 October–15 November) for the Danish beech forest, Lille Bøgeskov, to address the hypothesis that NH3 emissions occur from deciduous forests in relation to leaf fall. This is accomplished by using observations of vegetation status, NH3 fluxes and model calculations. Vegetation status was observed using plant area index (PAI) and leaf area index (LAI). NH3 fluxes were measured using the relaxed eddy accumulation (REA) method. The REA based NH3 concentrations were compared to NH3 denuder measurements. Model calculations were obtained with the Danish Ammonia MOdelling System (DAMOS). 57.7% of the fluxes measured showed emission and 19.5% showed deposition. The mean NH3 flux was 0.087 ± 0.19 μg NH3-N m−2 s−1. A clear tendency of the flux going from negative (deposition) to positive (emission) fluxes of up to 0.96 ± 0.40 μg NH3-N m−2 s−1 throughout the measurement period was found. In the leaf fall period (23 October–8 November), an increase in the atmospheric NH3 concentrations was related to the increasing forest NH3 flux. The modelled concentration from DAMOS fits well the measured concentrations before leaf fall. During and after leaf fall, the modelled concentrations are too low. The results indicate that the missing contribution to atmospheric NH3 concentration from vegetative surfaces related to leaf fall are of a relatively large magnitude. We therefore conclude that emissions from deciduous forests are important to include in model calculations of atmospheric NH3 for forest ecosystems. Finally, diurnal variations in the measured NH3 concentrations were related to meteorological conditions, forest phenology and the spatial distribution of local anthropogenic NH3 sources. This suggests that an accurate description of ammonia fluxes over forest ecosystems requires a dynamic description of atmospheric and vegetation processes.
ECOCLIMAP-II/Europe: a twofold database of ecosystems and surface parameters at 1-km resolution based on satellite information for use in land surface, meteorological and climate models
Authors: Faroux S. , Kaptué Tchuenté A. T. , Roujean J.-L. , Masson V. , Martin E. , Le Moigne P.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The overall objective of the present study is to introduce the new ECOCLIMAP-II database for Europe, which is an upgrade for this region of the former initiative, ECOCLIMAP-I, already implemented at global scale. The ECOCLIMAP programme is a dual database at 1-km resolution that includes an ecosystem classification and a coherent set of land surface parameters that are primarily mandatory in meteorological modelling (notably leaf area index and albedo). Hence, the aim of this innovative physiography is to enhance the quality of initialisation and impose some surface attributes within the scope of weather forecasting and climate related studies. The strategy for implementing ECOCLIMAP-II is to depart from prevalent land cover products such as CLC2000 (Corine Land Cover) and GLC2000 (Global Land Cover) by splitting existing classes into new classes that possess a better regional character by virtue of the climatic environment (latitude, proximity to the sea, topography). The leaf area index (LAI) from MODIS and NDVI from SPOT/Vegetation yield the two proxy variables that were considered here in order to perform a multi-year trimmed analysis between 1999 and 2005 using the K-means method. Further, meteorological applications require each land cover type to appear as a partition of fractions of 4 main surface types or tiles (nature, water bodies, sea, urban areas) and, inside the nature tile, fractions of 12 Plant Functional Types (PFTs) representing generic vegetation types – principally broadleaf forest, needleleaf forest, C3 and C4 crops, grassland and bare land – as incorporated by the SVAT model ISBA developed at Météo France. This landscape division also forms the cornerstone of a validation exercise. The new ECOCLIMAP-II can be verified with auxiliary land cover products at very fine and coarse resolutions by means of versatile land occupation nomenclatures.
COSMOS: the COsmic-ray Soil Moisture Observing System
Authors: Zreda M. , Shuttleworth W. J. , Zeng X. , Zweck C. , Desilets D. , Franz T. , Rosolem R.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The newly-developed cosmic-ray method for measuring area-average soil moisture at the hectometer horizontal scale is being implemented in the COsmic-ray Soil Moisture Observing System (or the COSMOS). The stationary cosmic-ray soil moisture probe measures the neutrons that are generated by cosmic rays within air and soil and other materials, moderated by mainly hydrogen atoms located primarily in soil water, and emitted to the atmosphere where they mix instantaneously at a scale of hundreds of meters and whose density is inversely correlated with soil moisture. The COSMOS has already deployed more than 50 of the eventual 500 cosmic-ray probes, distributed mainly in the USA, each generating a time series of average soil moisture over its horizontal footprint, with similar networks coming into existence around the world. This paper is written to serve a community need to better understand this novel method and the COSMOS project. We describe the cosmic-ray soil moisture measurement method, the instrument and its calibration, the design, data processing and dissemination used in the COSMOS project, and give example time series of soil moisture obtained from COSMOS probes.
Triplicated P-wave measurements for waveform tomography of the mantle transition zone
Authors: Stähler S. C. , Sigloch K. , Nissen-Meyer T.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Triplicated body waves sample the mantle transition zone more extensively than any other wave type, and interact strongly with the discontinuities at 410 km and 660 km. Since the seismograms bear a strong imprint of these geodynamically interesting features, it is highly desirable to invert them for structure of the transition zone. This has rarely been attempted, due to a mismatch between the complex and band-limited data and the (ray-theoretical) modelling methods. Here we present a data processing and modelling strategy to harness such broadband seismograms for finite-frequency tomography. We include triplicated P-waves (epicentral distance range between 14 and 30°) across their entire broadband frequency range, for both deep and shallow sources. We show that is it possible to predict the complex sequence of arrivals in these seismograms, but only after a careful effort to estimate source time functions and other source parameters from data, variables that strongly influence the waveforms. Modelled and observed waveforms then yield decent cross-correlation fits, from which we measure finite-frequency traveltime anomalies. We discuss two such data sets, for North America and Europe, and conclude that their signal quality and azimuthal coverage should be adequate for tomographic inversion. In order to compute sensitivity kernels at the pertinent high body wave frequencies, we use fully numerical forward modelling of the seismic wavefield through a spherically symmetric Earth.
Surge dynamics on Bering Glacier, Alaska, in 2008–2011
Authors: Burgess E. W. , Forster R. R. , Larsen C. F. , Braun M.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. A surge cycle of the Bering Glacier system, Alaska, is examined using observations of surface velocity obtained using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) offset tracking, and elevation data obtained from the University of Alaska Fairbanks LiDAR altimetry program. After 13 yr of quiescence, the Bering Glacier system began to surge in May 2008 and had two stages of accelerated flow. During the first stage, flow accelerated progressively for at least 10 months and reached peak observed velocities of ~ 7 m d−1. The second stage likely began in 2010. By 2011 velocities exceeded 9 m d−1 or ~ 18 times quiescent velocities. Fast flow continued into July 2011. Surface morphology indicated slowing by fall 2011; however, it is not entirely clear if the surge is yet over. The quiescent phase was characterized by small-scale acceleration events that increased driving stresses up to 70%. When the surge initiated, synchronous acceleration occurred throughout much of the glacier length. Results suggest that downstream propagation of the surge is closely linked to the evolution of the driving stress during the surge, because driving stress appears to be tied to the amount of resistive stress provided by the bed. In contrast, upstream acceleration and upstream surge propagation is not dependent on driving stress evolution.
Epidemiology and New Developments in the Diagnosis of Prosthetic Joint Infection
Authors: Corvec Stéphane , Portillo María E. , Pasticci Bruna Maria , Borens Olivier , Trampuz Andrej
Published: November 2012

Although prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a rare event after arthroplasty, it represents a significant complication that is associated with high morbidity, need for complex treatment, and substantial healthcare costs. An accurate and rapid diagnosis of PJI is crucial for treatment success. Current diagnostic methods in PJI are insufficient with 10–30% false-negative cultures. Consequently, there is a need for research and development into new methods aimed at improving diagnostic accuracy and speed of detection.

In this article, we review available conventional diagnostic methods for the diagnosis of PJI (laboratory markers, histopathology, synovial fluid and periprosthetic tissue cultures), new diagnostic methods (sonication of implants, specific and multiplex PCR, mass spectrometry) and innovative techniques under development (new laboratory markers, microcalorimetry, electrical method, reverse transcription [RT]-PCR, fluorescence in situ hybridization [FISH], biofilm microscopy, microarray identification, and serological tests). The results of highly sensitive diagnostic techniques with unknown specificity should be interpreted with caution. The organism identified by a new method may represent a real pathogen that was unrecognized by conventional diagnostic methods or contamination during specimen sampling, transportation, or processing. For accurate interpretation, additional studies are needed, which would evaluate the long-term outcome (usually >2 years) with or without antimicrobial treatment. It is expected that new rapid, accurate, and fully automatic diagnostic tests will be developed soon.
Mechanical and in Vitro Investigation of a Porous PEEK Foam for Medical Device Implants
Authors: Landy Bonnie C. , VanGordon Samuel B. , McFetridge Peter S. , Sikavitsas Vassilios I. , Jarman-Smith Marcus
Published: November 2012

Purpose

Implantable-grade polyetheretherketone (PEEK-OPTIMA®) is a high-performance thermoplastic that has been used in implant devices such as spinal-fusion cages since its introduction in 1999. Here, a new porous PEEK version was investigated.

Methods

Porous PEEK was fabricated using industrial scale relevant methods of compounding with porogen filler, extrusion, and subsequent extraction with water at supercritical temperatures and pressures. Mechanical properties were assessed according to ISO standards. Marrow stromal cells were cultured on porous PEEK samples and in vitro cytocompatibility was assessed by total DNA, alkaline phosphatase activity, osteopontin, calcium, and cell morphology to indicate stages of proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization. Compressive strength was assessed statically on 21 day cell cultures and media-soaked samples and dynamically within a medical device application specific context for interbody fusion cages (ASTM F2077).

Results

Manufacturing resulted in a biomaterial with ∼50% porosity and a mean pore size of 100 microns. The porous PEEK was found to have: tensile strength (14.5MPa), strain at break (3.5%), impact strength (3.6 kJ/m2), fexural strength (21.6MPa), and fexural modulus (0.8GPa). Production of extracellular mineralized matrix occurred very early in the culture period, indicating a preferred surface for differentiation. SEM images revealed polygonal cell morphology supporting a differentiated osteoblastic-like phenotype. EDS analysis detected levels of carbon, phosphorus, and calcium coinciding with assay results for the proliferation and differentiation stages.

Conclusion

Previous observations of cytocompatibility and calcification on the PEEK biomaterial could be carried through to this new porous form of the PEEK biomaterial. This helps porous PEEK to potentially offer more design options for implant devices requiring reduced modulus and/or increased tissue ingrowth aspects at the surface.
Adaboost and SVM based cybercrime detection and prevention model
Authors: Mohaddes Deylami Hanif - , Prasad Singh Yashwant
Published: November 2012

This paper aims to propose cybercrime detection and prevention model by using Support Vector Machine (SVM) andAdaBoost algorithm in order to reduce data damaging due to running of malicious codes. The performance ofthis model will be evaluated on a Facebook dataset, which includes benign executable and malicious codes. The mainobjective of this paper is to find the effectiveness of different classifiers on the Facebook dataset for crime detection.Finally, we try to compare the classifier accuracy of SVM and AdaBoost by using Weka 3.7.4 software in order to choosethe best model to classify the Facebook dataset with high accuracy.
Application of Bayesian Network to stock price prediction
Authors: KITA Eisuke , Harada Masaaki , Mizuno Takao
Published: November 2012

Authors present the stock price prediction algorithm by using Bayesian network. The present algorithm uses the networktwice. First, the network is determined from the daily stock price and then, it is applied for predicting the daily stock pricewhich was already observed. The prediction error is evaluated from the daily stock price and its prediction. Second, thenetwork is determined again from both the daily stock price and the daily prediction error and then, it is applied for thefuture stock price prediction. The present algorithm is applied for predicting NIKKEI stock average and Toyota motorcorporation stock price. Numerical results show that the maximum prediction error of the present algorithm is 30% inNIKKEI stock average and 20% in Toyota Motor Corporation below that of the time-series prediction algorithms such asAR, MA, ARMA and ARCH models.
Role of soft computing techniques in predicting stock market direction
Authors: Mansukhbhai Panchal Amitkumar , Madhubhai Patel Dr. Jayeshkumar
Published: November 2012

The stock market is a complex and dynamic system with noisy, non-stationary and chaotic data series. Prediction of a financial market is more challenging due to chaos and uncertainty of the system. Soft computing techniques are progressively gaining presence in the financial world. Compared to traditional techniques to predict the market direction, soft computing is gaining the advantage of accuracy and speed. However the input data selection is the major issue in soft computing. The aim of this paper is to explain the potential day by day research contribution of soft computing to solve complex problem such as stock market direction prediction. This study paper synthesizes five reference papers and explains how soft computing is gaining the popularity in the field of financial market. The selection of papers are based on various models wich are processing different input parameters for predicting the direction of stock market.
Integrated ANN model for earthfill dams seepage analysis: Sattarkhan Dam in Iran
Authors: Nourani Vahid , Sharghi Elnaz , Aminfar Mohammad Hossein
Published: November 2012

Piezometric heads in the core of Sattarkhan earthfill dam in Iran have been analyzed in this paper via Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Single and integrated ANN models were trained and verified using each piezometer’s data, and also the water levels on the up and downstream of the dam. Therefore, in the single ANN modeling a single ANN was developed for each piezometer, whereas in the integrated ANN modeling only a unique ANN was trained for all piezometers at different cross sections of the dam. Three-layered Perceptron ANN trained with Back Propagation Levenberg-Marquardt scheme was employed in the single modeling; while, two different ANN algorithms, the feed-forward back-propagation (FFBP) and the radial basis function (RBF) were employed to develop integrated ANNs. The number of hidden neurons were determined 5 and 7 for single ANNs, whereas 6 hidden neurons for the integrated FFBP ANN, and the spread value of 0.5 for the integrated RBF. The results show good agreement between computed and observed water heads at different monitoring piezometers with validation determination coefficients higher than 0.7984 in the single and 0.87 and 0.67 in the FFBP and RBF integrated modeling, respectively. Thereafter, the results of the ANNs were satisfactorily compared with the results of a physically based model (Finite Element Model, FEM).
Two decades of Czech foreign policy and hegemony of Internationalism
Authors: Kořan Michal
Published: November 2012

The aim of the article is to offer a theoretically grounded explanation of the long-term continuity of Czech foreign policy. Czech foreign policy displays long-term continuity and consensus at the level of policy, but, at the same time, exhibits deep ideological differences among political and societal elites at the level of politics. The article argues against the mainstream (neo)liberal and (neo)realist theories that explain foreign policy outcomes in pure rationalist and materialist terms. Instead, the text follows the line of the critical constructivist school of International Relations and borrows heavily from post-structuralism. Thus, the article takes into account the ideational background of Czech foreign policy and argues that these deeply seated differences at the level of politics, stemming from mutually contradictory normative, philosophical and political beliefs, are subsequently neutralized by what is called the “hegemonic internationalist discourse”. In this context, the article explores the origins, nature and consequences of the power of the hegemonic internationalist discourse.
What Is Thyroid Cancer?
Authors: Voelker Rebecca
Published: June 2024

This JAMA Patient Page describes the types of thyroid cancer and its risk factors, diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment.
Assessing the Evidence for Circulating Tumor HPV DNA in Patients With Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Lee Nancy Y. , Morris Luc G. T. , Diehn Maximilian
Published: June 2024

This Viewpoint evaluates the use of tumor tissue–modified human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in identifying minimal residual disease.
Capsular Tension Ring Implantation for Intraocular Lens Decentration and Tilt in Highly Myopic Eyes
Authors: Lin Haowen , Zhang Jiaqing , Zhang Yifan , Jin Aixia , Zhang Yu , Jin Ling , Xu Yifan , Xie Xiaohang , Tan Xuhua , Luo Lixia , Liu Yizhi
Published: June 2024

Importance

Capsular tension rings (CTRs) can support weak zonules and inhibit capsular shrinkage, thus potentially reducing intraocular lens (IOL) decentration and tilt. However, it has been debated whether CTRs can reduce IOL decentration and tilt in highly myopic eyes and whether CTR implantation is necessary for all highly myopic eyes.

Objective

To evaluate the influence of CTR implantation on IOL decentration and tilt in highly myopic eyes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized clinical trial was conducted between November 2021 and September 2023 at the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangzhou, China. Patients with cataract and an axial length (AL) of 26 mm or longer were enrolled.

Interventions

Participants were stratified into 3 groups based on the AL (stratum 1, 26 mm ≤ AL <28 mm; stratum 2, 28 mm ≤ AL <30mm; stratum 3, AL ≥30 mm), and further randomly assigned to the CTR group (a C-loop IOL combined with a CTR) or the control group (only a C-loop IOL) within each stratum.

Main Outcomes and Measures

IOL decentration at 3 months after cataract surgery was evaluated using anterior segment optical coherence tomography.

Results

A total of 186 eyes of 186 participants (mean [SD] age, 57.3 [10.9] years; 118 female [63.4%]) were randomized into the CTR group (93 [50%]) or control group (93 [50%]), with 87 eyes (93.6%) and 92 eyes (98.9%) completing follow-up at 3 months, respectively. The CTR group showed smaller IOL decentration (0.19 mm vs 0.23 mm; difference, −0.04 mm; 95% CI, −0.07 to −0.01 mm; P = .02) and tilt at 3 months, and lower proportions of clinically significant IOL decentration (≥0.4 mm) and tilt (≥7°) at 3 months compared with the control group. Similar results were only found in eyes with an AL of 30 mm or longer (IOL decentration: 0.20 mm vs 0.28 mm; difference, −0.08 mm; 95% CI, −0.14 to −0.02 mm; P = .01). Additionally, the CTR group showed a smaller change in IOL decentration from 1 week to 3 months, higher prediction accuracy, and better visual quality and patient satisfaction in this stratum. No differences were observed between the CTR and control groups in eyes with an AL less than 30 mm.

Conclusions and Relevance

CTR implantation reduced C-loop IOL decentration and tilt, increased position stability, and improved visual quality in eyes with an AL of 30 mm or longer. These findings support use of CTR implantation in eyes with an AL of 30 mm or longer and implanted with C-loop IOLs.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05161520
Hydroxychloroquine and Pre‐eclampsia in a Diverse Cohort of Women With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Simard Julia F. , Liu Emily F. , Rector Amadeia , Cantu Miranda , Chakravarty Eliza , Druzin Maurice , Kuo Daniel Z. , Shaw Gary M. , Weisman Michael , Hedderson Monique
Published: June 2024

Objective

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are at risk for pregnancy complications such as pre‐eclampsia and eclampsia. These clinically important complications are associated with maternal morbidity, mortality, and postpartum cardiovascular disease. Some studies suggest that hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) may reduce pre‐eclampsia risk in lupus pregnancy. Using a cohort of pregnant patients with prevalent SLE at Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC), we investigated whether HCQ treatment in early pregnancy reduced the risk of pre‐eclampsia or eclampsia.

Methods

Among pregnant patients with SLE from 2011 to 2020, we assessed HCQ treatment from three months before pregnancy through the first trimester. HCQ exposure was defined multiple ways to account for adherence and duration of treatment. Propensity scores accounted for multiple confounders and modified Poisson models estimated risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals of the association between HCQ treatment and pre‐eclampsia or eclampsia. Effect modification by pregestational hypertension, history of nephritis, and antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) status was investigated through stratified analysis.

Results

There were 399 pregnancies among 324 patients with SLE at KPNC between 2011 and 2020. Considering multiple exposure definitions, we consistently found a null association between HCQ and pre‐eclampsia or eclampsia. The RRs were consistently lower among nullipara patients, and RRs were consistently protective but not statistically significant among the high‐risk subgroup of patients with a history of nephritis, aPL positivity, or pregestational hypertension (for both nullipara and multipara patients).

Conclusion

Although this study found no reduced risk of HCQ on pre‐eclampsia or eclampsia, residual confounding may be attenuating the effect despite an integrated health care delivery system setting with detailed clinical data.
Disparities in Total Knee and Total Hip Arthroplasty Rates in the Population of Alaska, 2015 to 2018
Authors: Ferucci Elizabeth D. , Holck Peter
Published: June 2024

Objective

Racial and ethnic disparities in total joint replacements have been documented. Our objective was to determine the rates of total joint replacements for Alaska Native/American Indian (AN/AI) individuals compared with non‐AN/AI individuals in Alaska and investigate the differences in characteristics and outcomes by race.

Methods

We used hospital discharge data from the Alaska Health Facilities Data Reporting Program from 2015 to 2018. We identified people with an inpatient primary or revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or total hip arthroplasty (THA). We determined the population proportion of each procedure, age‐adjusted rates by race, age‐specific rates, and multivariable adjusted rate ratios for TKA or THA. We compared the characteristics of people undergoing primary TKA and THA by race.

Results

In 2,195,806 person‐years, there were 8,131 arthroplasty procedures (4,594 primary TKAs, 2,791 primary THAs, 378 revision TKAs, and 368 revision THAs). Primary TKAs and THAs were less likely in people of AN/AI or “Other” race compared with people of White race, with some heterogeneity in the “Other” race category. In multivariable models, the adjusted rate ratio for AN/AI compared with White race for TKA was 0.70 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60–0.82) and for THA was 0.69 (95% CI 0.55–0.85). AN/AI individuals undergoing TKA and THA were more likely to reside in rural locations, be younger than 65 years, have longer hospital stay, and discharge to home.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the existence of racial disparities in TKA and THA in Alaska. There may be many underlying causes, and future research should focus on improving access to care.
Systematic Review and Phenome‐Wide Scans of Genetic Associations with Vascular Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Diany Rime , Gagliano Taliun Sarah A
Published: June 2024

Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) is a heterogenous form of cognitive impairment that results from cerebrovascular disease. It is a result of both genetic and non‐genetic factors. Although much research has been conducted on the genetic contributors to other forms of cognitive impairment (e.g. Alzheimer's disease), knowledge is lacking on the genetic factors associated with VCI. A better understanding of the genetics of VCI will be critical for prevention and treatment. To begin to fill this gap, the genetic contributors are reviewed with VCI from the literature. Phenome‐wide scans of the identified genes are conducted and genetic variants identified in the review in large‐scale resources displaying genetic variant‐trait association information. Gene set are also carried out enrichment analysis using the genes identified from the review. Thirty one articles are identified meeting the search criteria and filters, from which 107 unique protein‐coding genes are noted related to VCI. The phenome‐wide scans and gene set enrichment analysis identify pathways associated with a diverse set of biological systems. This results indicate that genes with evidence of involvement in VCI are involved in a diverse set of biological functions. This information can facilitate downstream research to better dissect possible shared biological mechanisms for future therapies.
Microstructural Modifications and Failure Mechanisms of an Aluminum‐Based Abradable Coating System during Isothermal and Cyclic Aging
Authors: Prillieux Aurélien , Thouron Carole , Josse Claudie , Proietti Arnaud , Julien Gurt‐Santanach , Fabrice Crabos , Benoit Malard
Published: June 2024

Abradable systems are used in the aeronautical industry to improve the efficiency of gas turbine. Those materials are exposed in service to temperature up to 450 °C. The increase in gas turbine efficiency requires to increase the operating temperature and therefore the service temperature of abradable coating. The present study focuses on the isothermal and cyclic thermal aging of the Al–Si abradable coating system in a laboratory air at high temperature up to 500 °C. The investigation encompasses the microstructural evolution, phase transformation, and the formation of cracks, along with their interrelated effects. During aging, silicon particles precipitate in the abradable top coat. In addition, coarsening of those particles is observed and the coarsening kinetics appears to be faster in cyclic thermal aging conditions compared to isothermal aging. During cyclic and isothermal aging, brittle aluminides develope at the abradable top–coat/bond–coat interface, due to the interdiffusion of Al and Ni species. During cyclic aging, thermal cycles create thermomechanical stress at the top‐coat/bont‐coat interface due to coefficient of thermal expansion mismatch between the Al‐Si deposit and intermetallic phases. The stress generated results in the formation of cracks and porosities at the top–coat/bond–coat interface resulting in a dramatic failure of the system.
Effect of Sc on the Water Vapor Oxidation Behavior of FeCrAl Alloys at 1000 °C
Authors: Yang Shiting , Sun Hongliang , Liu Xili , Yan Weiwen , Liu Rui , Jiang Xiaosong
Published: June 2024

This study analyzes the oxidation behavior of FeCrAl–(0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0) wt% Sc alloys prepared through vacuum hot‐press sintering in a water vapor environment. Sc diffuses via short‐circuit diffusion from the oxide scale/alloy interface to the oxide scale surface. Subsequently, Sc is segregated at the aluminum oxide scale interface, preventing Al ions from diffusing outward to combine with the oxygen in the water vapor and reducing the growth rate of the oxide scale. Compared to a pure oxygen atmosphere, the water vapor atmosphere affects the adhesion of the oxide scale, shedding the oxide scale and leading to secondary oxidation. Sc doping transforms the oxide scale from a state of easily curved, poorly bonded, and full voids into a flat, bonded, dense, and protective scale. A dopant content of 0.5 wt% Sc is low and has a minor effect on the oxidation resistance of FeCrAl alloys. Samples containing 2.0 and 4.0 wt% Sc are excessively doped, causing considerable internal oxidation. In this experiment, 1.0 wt% Sc doping is found to be the most appropriate, demonstrating a low mass gain of 2.59 ± 0.12 mg cm−2 and a slow oxidation rate (K
p = 0.7131 mg cm−2 · h
n
).
Dual‐Responsive Nanoreactor Initiates In Situ Generation of Copper Complex for Paraptosis‐Mediated Tumor Chemo‐Immunotherapy
Authors: Niu Mei‐Ting , Li Qian‐Ru , Huang Qian‐Xiao , Liu Lin‐Meng , Qin You‐Teng , Wu Chao‐Yan , Cheng Si‐Xue , Zhang Xian‐Zheng
Published: June 2024

Paraptosis is a non‐apoptotic and caspase‐independent programmed cell death that can trigger immunogenic cell death (ICD) in tumor cells, representing a potent tactic to overcome immune tolerance to apoptosis. Here, this study demonstrates the construction of a dual‐responsive nanoreactor (MCGDH) to achieve paraptosis‐mediated ICD for chemo‐immunotherapy. Specifically, by doping Cu2+ into glutathione (GSH)‐responsive dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles, the platform (CGDMSN) is endowed with partial acid‐sensitivity. After loaded with 8‐hydroxyquinoline (8‐HQ), cell membrane fragments are coated onto the ammoniated CGDMSN surface to construct MCGDH. Upon internalization by tumor cells, the release of Cu2+ and 8‐HQ from MCGDH in response to the acidic pH and high concentration of GSH in the tumor microenvironment stimulates in situ generation of Cu(8‐HQ)2, inducing tumor cells paraptosis at a low copper dose. Moreover, MCGDH‐mediated paraptosis amplifies the immunogenicity of tumor cells, facilitating antigen presentation to dendritic cells and activating CD8+/CD4+ T cells immune responses. Furthermore, the combination of MCGDH and anti‐PD‐1 antibodies (αPD‐1) promotes the systemic anti‐tumor immune responses and long‐term immunological effect to vastly inhibit the primary/distant tumor growth and prevent tumor metastasis. This GSH/pH dual‐responsive nanoreactor serves as a selective platform for accelerating the development of chemo‐immunotherapy.
Dual‐Mode Sensing Chips for Wide‐Range and High‐Accuracy Biomarker Detection
Authors: He Jianping , Liu Haiyang , Cao Xianmao , Zhu Zhibiao , Liang Yuqi , Xiao Bo , Chen Jia , Xiao Mengmeng , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: June 2024

As widely used commercial sensors, amperometric biosensors based on electrochemical (EC) reactions exhibit good linearity and reproducibility but suffer from a low dynamic range and poor limit of detection (LoD). In contrast, biosensors utilizing field‐effect transistors (FETs) demonstrate a wide detection range and ultralow LoDs but are susceptible to interferences or ionic strength influences and have poor quantitative accuracy due to their nonlinear response mechanism. Here, EC and carbon nanotube (CNT) FET‐based biosensors are integrated into one chip via a compatible fabrication process. The dual‐mode biosensing chip (DMSC) provides the advantages from both the EC biosensors and FET biosensors; these advantages include high reliability and accuracy for quantitatively detecting glucose, a dynamic detection range spanning 6 orders of magnitude, and a detection limit of 1 fM. The introduction of a time‐division multiplexing detection method enables the DMSC to carry out complementary detection of the same target, providing early warning of specific abnormal biomarkers and accurate determination of their concentration in real time. The DMSC approach is generally applicable to the detection of other biomarkers and provides exciting opportunities for more accurate self‐monitoring diagnostics in real situations.
Achieving Long‐Range Arbitrary Uniform Alignment of Nanostructures in Magnetic Fields
Authors: Ghai Viney , Pandit Santosh , Svensso Magnus , Larsson Ragnar , Matic Aleksandar , Ngaloy Roselle , Dash Saroj P. , Terry Ann , Nygård Kim , Mijakovic Ivan , Kádár Roland
Published: June 2024

For magnetic field orientation of nonstructures to become a viable method to create high performance multifunctional nanocomposites, it is of paramount importance to develop a method that is easy to implement and that can induce long‐range uniform nanostructural alignment. To overcome this challenge, inspired by low field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology, a highly uniform, high field strength, and compact magnetic‐field nanostructure orientation methodology is presented for polymeric nanocomposites using a Halbach array, for the first time. Potential new advances are showcased for applications of graphene polymer composites by considering their electro‐thermal and antibacterial properties in highly oriented orthogonal morphologies. The high level of anisotropy induced in the graphene nanocomposites studied stands out through: 1) up to four decades higher electrical conductivities recorded in comparison to their randomly oriented counterparts, at concentrations where the latter show minimal improvements compared to the unfilled polymer; 2) over 1200% improvement in thermal conductivity, 3) antibacterial surfaces at field benchmark levels with lower filler content and with the added versatility of arbitrary orientation of the nanofillers. Overall, the new method and variations thereof can open up new horizons for tailoring nanostructure and performance for virtually all major nanocomposite applications based on graphene and other types of fillers.
Preferred Crystallographic Orientation via Solution Bathing for High‐Performance Inverted Perovskite Photovoltaics
Authors: Zhang Xinyue , Shang Chuanzhen , Wang Chenyun , Zhao Wenying , Tao Cong , Wang Shasha , Zhang Xuewen , Han Ruilin , Zhou Bin , Qu Duo , Wang Shibo , Wang Ying , Ke You , Tu Yongguang
Published: June 2024

The meticulous control of crystal facets in polycrystalline perovskite films offers valuable insights into the photoelectric properties, varying significantly with different orientations. Exploring effective means to regulate these facets is crucial, and further revealing the underlying mechanisms is needed. Here, the research employed green solution bathing to obtain high‐quality perovskite films with preferred crystallographic orientation. In brief, eco‐friendly 2‐pentanol is used as the solvent, and functional molecules 2‐(dimethylaminomethyl)‐4‐(2‐aminoethylthiomethyl)thiazole (DAT) are introduced into the solution bathing as the solute. By introducing DAT molecules, precise control over perovskite crystal nucleation kinetics is achieved, resulting in films with a preferential (100) facet orientation. Conversely, films without DAT exhibited distinct (111) facet orientation. The regulation of DAT on perovskite film crystal facet is verified through theoretical and crystallographic analyses. Theoretical calculations show that S atom of DAT binds most strongly to the (100) facet of FAPbI3, promoting surface energy reduction and thermodynamic enhancement, favoring (100) crystal orientation. Crystallographic characterization further proved the regulation effect. In addition, PL/TRPL tests confirm the regulation of DAT on superior photoelectric properties of (100)‐oriented perovskite films. The work introduces a novel approach and preparation process for regulating the crystal facets orientation of polycrystalline perovskite films.
Progress in the Computer‐Aided Analysis in Multiple Aspects of Nanocatalysis Research
Authors: Fan Lin , Shen Yilei , Lou Doudou , Gu Ning
Published: June 2024

Making the utmost of the differences and advantages of multiple disciplines, interdisciplinary integration breaks the science boundaries and accelerates the progress in mutual quests. As an organic connection of material science, enzymology, and biomedicine, nanozyme‐related research is further supported by computer technology, which injects in new vitality, and contributes to in‐depth understanding, unprecedented insights, and broadened application possibilities. Utilizing computer‐aided first‐principles method, high‐speed and high‐throughput mathematic, physic, and chemic models are introduced to perform atomic‐level kinetic analysis for nanocatalytic reaction process, and theoretically illustrate the underlying nanozymetic mechanism and structure‐function relationship. On this basis, nanozymes with desirable properties can be designed and demand‐oriented synthesized without repeated trial‐and‐error experiments. Besides that, computational analysis and device also play an indispensable role in nanozyme‐based detecting methods to realize automatic readouts with improved accuracy and reproducibility. Here, this work focuses on the crossing of nanocatalysis research and computational technology, to inspire the research in computer‐aided analysis in nanozyme field to a greater extent.
Advanced Energy Harvesters and Energy Storage for Powering Wearable and Implantable Medical Devices
Authors: Gao Ziyan , Zhou Yang , Zhang Jin , Foroughi Javad , Peng Shuhua , Baughman Ray H. , Wang Zhong Lin , Wang Chun H.
Published: June 2024

Wearable and implantable active medical devices (WIMDs) are transformative solutions for improving healthcare, offering continuous health monitoring, early disease detection, targeted treatments, personalized medicine, and connected health capabilities. Commercialized WIMDs use primary or rechargeable batteries to power their sensing, actuation, stimulation, and communication functions, and periodic battery replacements of implanted active medical devices pose major risks of surgical infections or inconvenience to users. Addressing the energy source challenge is critical for meeting the growing demand of the WIMD market that is reaching valuations in the tens of billions of dollars. This review critically assesses the recent advances in energy harvesting and storage technologies that can potentially eliminate the need for battery replacements. With a key focus on advanced materials that can enable energy harvesters to meet the energy needs of WIMDs, this review examines the crucial roles of advanced materials in improving the efficiencies of energy harvesters, wireless charging, and energy storage devices. This review concludes by highlighting the key challenges and opportunities in advanced materials necessary to achieve the vision of self‐powered wearable and implantable active medical devices, eliminating the risks associated with surgical battery replacement and the inconvenience of frequent manual recharging.