bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety of Percutaneous Tunneled Hemodialysis Catheter Procedures in Patients Receiving Concurrent Clopidogrel Therapy
Authors: Salazar Gloria Maria Martinez , Tan Chieh Suai , Spearman Kenneth , Wicky Stephen , Wu Steven
Published: September 2013

Purpose

Patients on clopidogrel are at increased risk of bleeding. This study was commenced to assess the incidence of bleeding in dialysis patients who underwent tunneled hemodialysis catheter procedures while on clopidogrel therapy.

Methods

This is a single center retrospective study of 25 (10 men, 15 women; median age 70) dialysis patients in whom clopidogrel could not be discontinued and underwent tunneled hemodialysis catheter insertion, removal or exchange between the period March 2010 to November 2011. The medical records of patients were reviewed and complications were classified according to the Society of Interventional Radiology system. Fifty-three procedures (22 insertions, 11 exchanges and 20 removals) were performed in these patients. The pre-procedural median platelet count, International Normalized Ratio and partial thromboplastin time were 195×103/dL (range 50-666), 1.1 (range 0.9-3.3) and 26.3 seconds (range 22.5-69.8) respectively.

Results and Conclusions

Forty-six procedures were performed in patients on clopidogrel and aspirin treatment. Five procedures were performed in patients while on clopidogrel in combination with aspirin and warfarin, and two procedures were performed with patients on clopidogrel alone. There were no documented bleeding complications from tunneled hemodialysis catheter procedures performed in patients on concurrent clopidogrel therapy in our study. Further prospective assessment with a larger cohort is necessary in order to validate these findings.
From the Human Spine to Hyperredundant Robots: The ERMIS Mechanism
Authors: Georgilas Ioannis , Tourassis Vassilios
Published: September 2013

Mechatronics are occasionally inspired by nature for joint designs in order to exploit the advantages of the biological ones in terms of mobility and articulation. Within this context and based upon the human spine for structure and actuation, the authors will present a novel hyperredundant mechanism, named ERMIS. The muscle-skeletal system of the human trunk will be described and modelled, and the elements that are being replicated by the mechanical analog will be analysed. It will be shown that the vertebrae-intervertebral disk arrangement can be emulated by a spherical-type configuration, the proposed Disk-Ball-Disk joint. Furthermore, the muscle actuation system is being recreated by a system of wires and pulleys. The relevant kinematic models will be
developed, and both simulation and experimental data to evaluate its operation will be demonstrated.
Isolation of Human Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells Using Laser-Assisted Liposuction and Their Therapeutic Potential in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Chung Michael T. , Zimmermann Andrew S. , Paik Kevin J. , Morrison Shane D. , Hyun Jeong S. , Lo David D. , McArdle Adrian , Montoro Daniel T. , Walmsley Graham G. , Senarath-Yapa Kshemendra , Sorkin Michael , Rennert Robert , Chen Hsin-Han , Chung Andrew S. , Vistnes Dean , Gurtner Geoffrey C. , Longaker Michael T. , Wan Derrick C.
Published: September 2013

Harvesting adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) for tissue engineering is frequently done through liposuction. However, several different techniques exist. Although third-generation ultrasound-assisted liposuction has been shown to not have a negative effect on ASCs, the impact of laser-assisted liposuction on the quality and differentiation potential of ASCs has not been studied. Therefore, ASCs were harvested from laser-assisted lipoaspirate and suction-assisted lipoaspirate. Next, in vitro parameters of cell yield, cell viability and proliferation, surface marker phenotype, osteogenic differentiation, and adipogenic differentiation were performed. Finally, in vivo bone formation was assessed using a critical-sized cranial defect in athymic nude mice. Although ASCs isolated from suction-assisted lipoaspirate and laser-assisted lipoaspirate both successfully underwent osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation, the cell yield, viability, proliferation, and frequency of ASCs (CD34+CD31−CD45−) in the stromal vascular fraction were all significantly less with laser-assisted liposuction in vitro (p < .05). In vivo, quantification of osseous healing by micro-computed tomography revealed significantly more healing with ASCs isolated from suction-assisted lipoaspirate relative to laser-assisted lipoaspirate at the 4-, 6-, and 8-week time points (p < .05). Therefore, as laser-assisted liposuction appears to negatively impact the biology of ASCs, cell harvest using suction-assisted liposuction is preferable for tissue-engineering purposes.
Age of the Donor Reduces the Ability of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells to Alleviate Symptoms in the Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis Mouse Model
Authors: Scruggs Brittni A. , Semon Julie A. , Zhang Xiujuan , Zhang Shijia , Bowles Annie C. , Pandey Amitabh C. , Imhof Kathleen M.P. , Kalueff Allan V. , Gimble Jeffrey M. , Bunnell Bruce A.
Published: September 2013

There is a significant clinical need for effective therapies for primary progressive multiple sclerosis, which presents later in life (i.e., older than 50 years) and has symptoms that increase in severity without remission. With autologous mesenchymal stem cell therapy now in the early phases of clinical trials for all forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), it is necessary to determine whether autologous stem cells from older donors have therapeutic effectiveness. In this study, the therapeutic efficacy of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) from older donors was directly compared with that of cells from younger donors for disease prevention. Mice were induced with chronic experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) using the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein35–55 peptide and treated before disease onset with ASCs derived from younger (<35 years) or older (>60 years) donors. ASCs from older donors failed to ameliorate the neurodegeneration associated with EAE, and mice treated with older donor cells had increased central nervous system inflammation, demyelination, and splenocyte proliferation in vitro compared with the mice receiving cells from younger donors. Therefore, the results of this study demonstrated that donor age significantly affects the ability of human ASCs to provide neuroprotection, immunomodulation, and/or remyelination in EAE mice. The age-related therapeutic differences corroborate recent findings that biologic aging occurs in stem cells, and the differences are supported by evidence in this study that older ASCs, compared with younger donor cells, secrete less hepatocyte growth factor and other bioactive molecules when stimulated in vitro. These results highlight the need for evaluation of autologous ASCs derived from older patients when used as therapy for MS.
New Questions and Old Paradigms: Reexamining Caribbean Culture History
Authors: Pestle William J. , Curet L. Antonio , Ramos Reniel Rodríguez , López Miguel Rodríguez
Published: September 2013

One of the central goals of archaeology is the definition of regional cultural succession. Since at least the 1960s, archaeology has purported to have moved beyond the strictures of Culture History, and yet the constructs of that paradigm (styles, periods, cultures) continue to be used routinely. This work aims to show that by doing so, one is still implicitly subscribing to that theoretical perspective"s assumptions and biases. In the end, this article is intended to be a self-critical assessment of the shortcomings of Caribbean archaeology vis-à-vis issues inherent in that region"s dominant culture-history framework. Moreover, it aims to provide an example for Caribbeanists, and archaeologists working in other regions, of the value of moving beyond the products of, and not just beyond the term, Culture History.
Cueva La Conga: First Karst Cave Archaeology in Nicaragua
Authors: Baker Suzanne M. , Armitage Ruth Ann
Published: September 2013

Cueva la Conga, recorded in June 2006, is the first limestone cave in Nicaragua reported to contain prehistoric rock paintings, culturally modified natural formations called speleothems, and artifacts. Located in northcentral Nicaragua in the Department of Jinotega, Cueva la Conga is the farthest south on the Mesoamerican periphery that a cave of this type has been reported, and it extends our knowledge of ritual cave use, including cave painting and speleothem modification, to include Nicaragua. Radiocarbon analysis of charcoal in five samples of the paint, the first such dating of Nicaraguan rock art, yielded calibrated dates from cal A.D. 680—905 to cal A.D. 1403—1640. The baseline data provided by Cueva la Conga are of great importance for regional rock art analysis and for our growing understanding of regional and Nicaraguan prehistory. More archaeological survey and excavations in the area will be key in establishing a firm cultural context for the rock art and ritual cave use found at Cueva la Conga.
Entreprendre la flexicurité au niveau « méso » dans les PMO
Authors: Albert Cromarias Anne
Published: September 2013

À l’heure où la flexicurité apparaît comme une façon de corriger les dérives liées aux mutations économiques et sociales, celle-ci, largement débattue sur le plan macroéconomique, commence à être envisagée sur le plan microéconomique. Or, pour l’appliquer aux petites et moyennes organisations (PMO), il semble pertinent de proposer une approche méso-organisationnelle, considérant des employeurs fonctionnant en réseau. La recherche s’intéresse, à travers une double lecture en termes de capital social et d’économie de la proximité, à un dispositif concret de flexicurité, pour comprendre et expliquer les modalités de sa mise en oeuvre.

Cet article interroge plus particulièrement le caractère entrepreneurial d’une démarche de flexicurité, initiée et mise en oeuvre dans un réseau de PMO, à la fois territorial et sectoriel, pour tenter d’identifier et de caractériser le rôle joué par les développeurs de ces projets.

Le secteur sportif apparaît particulièrement pertinent parce que confronté à des difficultés sociales importantes, notamment en termes de précarité de la main-d’oeuvre. Nous nous intéressons en particulier à l’Auvergne : le contrat d’objectifs du sport, récemment signé, encourage notamment la mutualisation des compétences en s’appuyant sur des exemples de groupements d’employeurs (GE). La recherche, mobilisant les outils de l’étude qualitative, s’inscrit dans le cadre d’une approche compréhensive et explicative du fonctionnement de ces GE et des acteurs qui les entourent.

Chaque porteur de projet semble agir comme un véritable « entrepreneur » de la flexicurité, tout à la fois pilote et facilitateur de sa mise en oeuvre, apparaissant ainsi comme le « révélateur » d’une proximité organisée entre employeurs.
Le marketing intégré en TPE
Authors: Albertini Thérèse , Fabiani Thierry
Published: September 2013

La mise en oeuvre d’une démarche marketing traditionnelle, les prestations de conseils en management et a fortiori en mercatique entraînent très souvent une certaine réticence de la part des dirigeants de très petites entreprises (TPE). Pourtant, savoir apprécier son marché, apprendre à parler couramment le langage du client, procéder à l’évaluation de sa propre offre avec les yeux du client afin d’optimiser la proposition en fonction des segments de clientèle visés nous paraît essentiel. Cet article se propose de mettre à plat les mécanismes de compréhension des attentes clients afin de construire les réponses les plus appropriées et d’atteindre une performance durable. La présentation de la méthode du « parler courant client » (PCCL) est ici exposée par les deux auteurs sur la base de leurs expériences au contact de nombreuses PME et TPE.

La revue de la littérature viendra souligner les attentes des TPE dans le domaine marketing. L’étude empirique permettra, quant à elle, d’illustrer et de vérifier la pertinence du PCCL face aux attentes exprimées (accessibilité, transférabilité, simplicité, fidélisation de la clientèle existante).

Afin d’argumenter le propos, les auteurs s’appuieront ici sur trois exemples « fil rouge » (dont une TPE agroalimentaire installée en région Corse) et sur une enquête menée auprès des managers de TPE ayant suivi la formation PCCL dans le but d’instruire deux aspects : la présentation de la méthode PCCL ainsi que ses retombées (intérêt du chef d’entreprise pour cette méthode et mise en application de cette dernière). Nous verrons que le présent dispositif nécessite une approche méthodique autour de quatre étapes clés et qu’il existe de véritables avantages pour les entreprises qui sauront mettre en place ce dispositif.
Les déterminants de la structure financière
Authors: Feudjo Jules Roger , Tchankam Jean-Paul
Published: September 2013

Le paradoxe des entreprises insolvables qui contractent régulièrement de nouvelles dettes constitue la motivation principale de cette recherche. Les tests statistiques effectués sur un échantillon de 62 PMI mettent en évidence deux principaux facteurs explicatifs de ce comportement financier au Cameroun : le taux des actifs immobilisés et le capital social du dirigeant, c’est-à-dire la capacité des actifs à servir de garanties, et la possibilité qu’offrent les réseaux relationnels de contourner les normes ou d’accéder aux sources et circuits informels alternatifs de financement. Cette étude montre la coexistence au Cameroun de deux dimensions parallèles dans l’environnement des affaires. À côté du formel où le manque de confiance et de lisibilité entre les acteurs poussent les bailleurs de fonds aux excès prudentiels subsiste un univers informel où la confiance, la loyauté et la solidarité semblent constituer le socle des relations d’affaires.
La compétence relationnelle de l’entreprise
Authors: Gardès Nathalie , Maque Isabelle
Published: September 2013

L’hypothèse d’opportunisme rend la relation banque-entreprise problématique. Cette relation nécessite alors de mettre en place des mécanismes permettant de pallier les risques inhérents à l’opportunisme potentiel des acteurs. La littérature met en avant l’intérêt des relations de long terme. Mais si la durée est nécessaire à l’apprentissage mutuel et au développement d’un capital confiance, celle-ci n’est pas suffisante pour inscrire la relation bancaire dans une approche relationnelle. Les intérêts financiers ne sont pas non plus suffisants comme principes d’organisation de la gestion des relations bancaires. Un niveau d’analyse supplémentaire est alors nécessaire pour comprendre les modalités de gestion de la relation bancaire. L’interaction sociale volontaire de l’entreprise cliente contribue alors à structurer la relation pour l’ancrer dans une gestion relationnelle. L’objectif de cet article est ainsi de montrer que le choix du mode de gestion de la relation bancaire, par l’entreprise cliente, permet de dépasser les analyses centrées sur les comportements opportunistes.

La méthodologie retenue est qualitative et la méthode utilisée est l’étude de cas. Toutes deux découlent du sujet étudié. L’étude présentée ici utilise les données de quatre études de cas menées auprès de quatre PME françaises. Les données sont secondaires. Ces études de cas ont été menées dans le cadre d’une recherche ayant pour objectif d’étudier le fonctionnement et l’organisation des relations banque(s)-entreprise du point de vue de l’entreprise.

Les quatre PME étudiées ont su développer une compétence relationnelle, d’une part, centrée sur une communication proactive et extensive et, d’autre part, axée sur la construction d’un espace rhétorique commun et la création de règles propres communes. Le développement de cette compétence relationnelle a permis la création d’un savoir, d’un savoir-faire et d’un savoir-être. L’analyse théorique centrée sur la gestion relationnelle des échanges bancaires et la pratique relationnelle des PME étudiées rendent non nécessaire la notion d’opportunisme.
The CARE Guidelines: Consensus-based Clinical Case Reporting Guideline Development
Authors: Gagnier Joel J. , Kienle Gunver , Altman Douglas G. , Moher David , Sox Harold , Riley David
Published: September 2013

Background:

A case report is a narrative that describes, for medical, scientific, or educational purposes, a medical problem experienced by one or more patients. Case reports written without guidance from reporting standards are insufficiently rigorous to guide clinical practice or to inform clinical study design.

Primary Objective:

Develop, disseminate, and implement systematic reporting guidelines for case reports.

Methods:

We used a three-phase consensus process consisting of (1) premeeting literature review and interviews to generate items for the reporting guidelines, (2) a face-to-face consensus meeting to draft the reporting guidelines, and (3) postmeeting feedback, review, and pilot testing, followed by finalization of the case report guidelines.

Results:

This consensus process involved 27 participants and resulted in a 13-item checklist—a reporting guideline for case reports. The primary items of the checklist are title, key words, abstract, introduction, patient information, clinical findings, timeline, diagnostic assessment, therapeutic interventions, follow-up and outcomes, discussion, patient perspective, and informed consent.

Conclusions:

We believe the implementation of the CARE (CAse REport) guidelines by medical journals will improve the completeness and transparency of published case reports and that the systematic aggregation of information from case reports will inform clinical study design, provide early signals of effectiveness and harms, and improve healthcare delivery.
Racial Disparities in Sports Cardiology
Authors: Krishnan Sheela , Guseh James Sawalla , Chukumerije Merije , Grant Aubrey J. , Dean Peter N. , Hsu Jeffrey J. , Husaini Mustafa , Phelan Dermot M. , Shah Ankit B. , Stewart Katie , Wasfy Meagan M. , Capers Quinn , Essien Utibe R. , Johnson Amber E. , Levine Benjamin D. , Kim Jonathan H. ,   American College of Cardiology Sports & Exercise Leadership Council, Chung Eugene , Danielian Alfred , Dineen Beth
Published: July 2024

Importance

Racial disparities in cardiovascular health, including sudden cardiac death (SCD), exist among both the general and athlete populations. Among competitive athletes, disparities in health outcomes potentially influenced by social determinants of health (SDOH) and structural racism remain inadequately understood. This narrative review centers on race in sports cardiology, addressing racial disparities in SCD risk, false-positive cardiac screening rates among athletes, and the prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy, and encourages a reexamination of race-based practices in sports cardiology, such as the interpretation of screening 12-lead electrocardiogram findings.

Observations

Drawing from an array of sources, including epidemiological data and broader medical literature, this narrative review discusses racial disparities in sports cardiology and calls for a paradigm shift in approach that encompasses 3 key principles: race-conscious awareness, clinical inclusivity, and research-driven refinement of clinical practice. These proposed principles call for a shift away from race-based assumptions towards individualized, health-focused care in sports cardiology. This shift would include fostering awareness of sociopolitical constructs, diversifying the medical team workforce, and conducting diverse, evidence-based research to better understand disparities and address inequities in sports cardiology care.

Conclusions and Relevance

In sports cardiology, inadequate consideration of the impact of structural racism and SDOH on racial disparities in health outcomes among athletes has resulted in potential biases in current normative standards and in the clinical approach to the cardiovascular care of athletes. An evidence-based approach to successfully address disparities requires pivoting from outdated race-based practices to a race-conscious framework to better understand and improve health care outcomes for diverse athletic populations.
Improving Pain Self-Management Among Rural Older Adults With Cancer
Authors: Shen Megan J. , Stokes Tammy , Yarborough Sarah , Harrison Jill
Published: July 2024

Importance

Undertreated cancer pain is a major public health concern among older adults in rural communities. Interventions to improve pain management among this vulnerable population are needed.

Objective

To test the feasibility, acceptability, and changes in pain outcomes from exposure to an adapted intervention, Cancer Health Empowerment for Living without Pain (CA-HELP), to improve patients’ communication about pain to their clinicians.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Older adults with cancer (aged ≥65 years) who were residing in a noninstitutional rural setting and receiving outpatient care at a rural-based clinic in Tennessee were enrolled in the study, in which everyone received the intervention, in May 2022. All patients were given assessments at baseline and 1 week after intervention. Mean score differences were analyzed using 1-tailed paired sample t tests (α = .05). Data were analyzed in June 2022.

Exposure

The adapted version of CA-HELP included an 18-page patient-facing workbook and a 30-minute telephone coaching call with a registered nurse to coach patients on pain education and communication techniques to discuss pain with their medical team.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Feasibility was examined through accrual and completion rates. Acceptability was measured by helpfulness, difficulty, and satisfaction with the intervention. Changes in outcomes were measured using mean score differences from pre-post assessments of pain self-management, self-efficacy for communicating with clinicians about pain, patient-reported pain, and misconceptions about pain.

Results

Among the 30 total participants, the mean (SD) age was 73.0 (5.1) years; 17 participants (56.7%) were female, 5 (16.7%) were Black or African American, 30 (100%) were non-Hispanic or non-Latino, 24 (80.0%) were White, 16 (53.3%) had less than a high school education, and 15 (50.0%) reported income less than $21 000 per year. Based on accrual and completion rates of 100%, this intervention was highly feasible. Fidelity rates for delivering intervention components (100%) and communication competence (27 participants [90%]) were also high. Regarding acceptability, all patients rated the intervention as helpful, with the majority (24 participants [80%]) rating it as “very helpful.” Most patients rated the intervention as “not at all difficult” (27 participants [90%]), enjoyed participating (21 participants [70%]), and reported being “very satisfied” (25 participants [83.3%]). Pre-post changes in outcomes suggested significant improvements in pain self-management and self-efficacy for communicating with clinicians about pain, as well as significant reductions in patient-reported pain and pain misconceptions.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this case-series study of CA-HELP, results suggested the adapted version of CA-HELP was feasible and acceptable and showed changes in pain-related outcome measures among older adults with cancer in a rural setting.
Environmental Bright Light Exposure, Depression Symptoms, and Sleep Regularity
Authors: Wallace Danielle A. , Redline Susan , Sofer Tamar , Kossowsky Joe
Published: July 2024

This cross-sectional study examines the associations between bright light therapy, sleep regularity, and depression symptoms among adults in the US.
4‐Chloropyridine Hydrochloride
Authors: Bozinovic Nina S.
Published: July 2024

image

[7379‐35‐3]

C
5
H
4
ClN·HCl

(MW 150.01)

InChI = 
1S/C5H4ClN.ClH/c6‐5‐1‐3‐7‐4‐2‐5;/h1‐4H;1H

InChIKey = 
XGAFCCUNHIMIRV‐UHFFFAOYSA‐N

(reagent is an HCl salt of 4‐chloropyridine, heterocyclic building block used in metal‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions, nucleophilic aromatic substitutions, and lithiations)

Alternative Name
: 4‐chloropyridinium chloride and
p
‐chloropyridine hydrochloride.

Physical Data
: mp 210 °C; flash point 198 °C – closed cup.

Form Supplied in
: beige‐yellow to white solid; widely available.

Solubility
: soluble in water.

Handling, Storage, and Precautions
: keep containers tightly closed in a dry, cool, and well‐ventilated place. Acute toxicity, oral (Category 4) H302, eye irritation (Category 2A) H319, and LD
50
oral (rat) 566 mg kg
−1
.

Preparative Methods
: the reagent is prepared by dehydroxy‐chlorination of 4‐pyridinol, deaminative chlorination or Sandmeyer chlorination of 4‐aminopyridine, and chlorination of pyridine
N
‐oxide.
Planned versus Incidental Focus on Form in Oral Communication
Authors: Kartchava Eva
Published: July 2024

Bringing language learners' attention to the accuracy of their output can be affected by way of planned or incidental focus on form. Planned focus on form includes the use of implicit techniques that increase learners' exposure to particular features in the input. Incidental focus on form employs communicative tasks that elicit the use of features that have or have not been determined in advance. That is, a teacher may preempt potentially problematic structures through instruction or choose to treat them as they come up in interaction.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Second and Additional Language Learning and Teaching
Authors: Angelovska Tanja , Kałdonek‐Crnjaković Agnieszka
Published: July 2024

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may significantly affect one's learning. Research is abundant in many scientific areas but, still, little is known about how ADHD affects second and additional language learning from linguistic and multilingualism perspectives. This entry begins with a description of common ADHD manifestations to explain the two main presentations of the condition. The second section discusses the research to date on ADHD in the context of bilingualism and multilingualism, while the final part focuses on pedagogical implications and practical recommendations. This part also poses vital questions that should be addressed by future investigations to enhance inclusive teaching approaches.
Transformative learning about anxiety: A duo‐ethnography of Chinese female immigrants
Authors: Cui Dan , Li Xiaomei , Jin Wendi
Published: July 2024

Existing studies predominantly analyze the mental health experiences of Chinese international students through a psychological perspective. This study, however, delves into transformative learning (TL) outcomes related to understanding and overcoming “anxiety” from a critical sociological lens. Utilizing a duo‐ethnographic methodology, it sheds light on the transformative learning experiences of three female Chinese researchers as they investigate anxiety in a North American higher education setting. This study uncovers socio‐cultural factors contributing to anxiety among Chinese international students abroad, with a particular emphasis on faculty's racialized habitus, academic struggles, emotions, and gender. It represents an interdisciplinary fusion between critical sociology and adult education, specifically concentrating on TL for social justice and the emotional and relational aspects of TL.
Fine Particulate Matter Components and Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Large General Canadian Open Cohort Study
Authors: Zhao Naizhuo , Smargiassi Audrey , Chen Hong , Widdifield Jessica , Bernatsky Sasha
Published: July 2024

Objective

Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been linked to many diseases. However, it remains unclear which PM2.5 chemical components for these diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), are more harmful. This study aimed to assess potential associations between PM2.5 components and RA and quantify the individual effects of each chemical component on RA risk.

Methods

An open cohort of 11,696,930 Canadian adults was assembled using Ontario administrative health data from January 2007 onward. Individuals were followed until RA onset, death, emigration from Ontario, or the end of the study (December 2019). Incident RA cases were defined by physician billing and hospitalization discharge diagnostic codes. The average levels of PM2.5 components (ammonium, black carbon, mineral dust, nitrate, organic matter, sea salt, and sulfate) for 5 years before cohort entry were assigned to participants based on residential postal codes. A quantile g‐computation and Cox proportional hazard models for time to RA onset were developed for the mixture of PM2.5 components and environmental overall PM2.5, respectively.

Results

We identified 67,676 new RA cases across 130,934,256 person‐years. The adjusted hazard ratios for the time to RA onset were 1.027 and 1.023 (95% confidence intervals 1.021–1.033 and 1.017–1.029) per every decile increase in exposures to all seven components and per 1 μg/m3 increase in the overall PM2.5, respectively. Ammonium contributed the most to RA onset in the seven components.

Conclusion

Exposure to PM2.5 components was modestly associated with RA risk. Public health efforts focusing on specific components (eg, ammonium) may be a more efficient way to reduce RA burden.
Impact of Exposure to Environmental Particulate Matter on the Onset of Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Bond Milena , Tomelleri Alessandro , Reatini Maria A. , Campochiaro Corrado , Cattani Giorgio , Dagna Lorenzo , Rossini Maurizio , Dejaco Christian , Adami Giovanni
Published: July 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between exposure to particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤10 μm (PM10) and the development of giant cell arteritis (GCA) and its ischemic complications.

Methods

This was case‐crossover study on consecutive patients who received a diagnosis of GCA in three hospitals in northern Italy between 2013 and 2021. The PM10 hourly and daily average concentrations, collected in the Italian monitoring network and archived by Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, were determined using European reference. We used a Bayesian hierarchical model to determine patients’ daily exposures to them. We employed conditional logistic regression to estimate the effect of exposure on GCA symptoms onset or ischemic complications.

Results

We included 232 patients. A positive association was observed between exposure to PM10 and GCA risk, with an incremental odd of 27.1% (95% confidence interval 5.8–52.6) for every 10‐μg/m3 increase in PM10 concentration within a 60‐day period. We did not find any significant association for shorter periods or with ischemic complications. Subgroup analysis found a significantly higher incremental risk at a 60‐day lag for patients ≥70 years old. Comparing patients who were chronically exposed to high PM10 levels (26.9 ± 13.8 μg/m3) to those who were not (11.9 ± 7.9 μg/m3) revealed that only in the former group was there an association between GCA onset and increased PM10 levels in the preceding 60 days.

Conclusion

Exposure to environmental PM10 in the preceding 60 days seems to be associated with an increased risk of developing GCA, especially in older individuals with prolonged exposure to high levels of air pollution.
Potential of Photoelectric Stimulation with Ultrasmall Carbon Electrode on Neural Tissue: New Directions in Neurostimulation Technology Development
Authors: Chen Keying , Wu Bingchen , Krahe Daniela , Vazquez Alberto , Siegenthaler James R. , Rechenberg Robert , Li Wen , Cui X. Tracy , Kozai Takashi D. Y.
Published: July 2024

Neuromodulation technologies have gained considerable attention for their clinical potential in treating neurological disorders and advancing cognition research. However, traditional methods like electrical stimulation and optogenetics face technical and biological challenges that limit their therapeutic and research applications. A promising alternative, photoelectric neurostimulation, uses near‐infrared light to generate electrical pulses and thus enables stimulation of neuronal activity without genetic alterations. This study explores various design strategies to enhance photoelectric stimulation with minimally invasive, ultrasmall, untethered carbon electrodes. Employing a multiphoton laser as the near‐infrared (NIR) light source, benchtop experiments are conducted using a three‐electrode setup and chronopotentiometry to record photo‐stimulated voltage. In vivo evaluations utilize Thy1‐GCaMP6s mice with acutely implanted ultrasmall carbon electrodes. Results highlighted the beneficial effects of high duty‐cycle laser scanning and photovoltaic polymer interfaces on the photo‐stimulated voltages by the implanted electrode. Additionally, the promising potential of carbon‐based diamond electrodes are demonstrated for photoelectric stimulation and the application of photoelectric stimulation in precise chemical delivery by loading mesoporous silica nanoparticles (SNPs) co‐deposited with polyethylenedioxythiophene (PEDOT). Together, these findings on photoelectric stimulation utilizing ultrasmall carbon electrodes underscore its immense potential for advancing the next generation of neurostimulation technology.
Amplitude‐Phase Dual‐Channel Encrypted Acoustic Meta‐Holograms
Authors: Zeng Haohan , He Zhenyu , Wu Yusen , Gao Siyuan , Mao Feilong , Fan Haiyan , Fan Xudong , Kan Weiwei , Zhu Yifan , Zhang Hui , Assouar Badreddine
Published: July 2024

Encrypted acoustic meta‐holograms have potential applications in confidential acoustic information communication, noise control, acoustic cloaking, acoustic illusion, etc. Conventional encrypted optical and acoustic meta‐holograms only focus on the encrypted hologram in a single channel, viz. modulating spatial amplitude to project a holographic image. Here, the concept of an amplitude‐phase dual‐channel encrypted acoustic meta‐hologram (DrEAM) is proposed, capable of generating, encrypting, and decrypting both amplitude and phase holographic images. This unique concept of “phase holographic image” introduces a new degree of freedom for meta‐holograms, leading to dual‐channel encrypted acoustic holography. Acoustic metasurface with simultaneous amplitude and phase modulations is employed to realize this dual‐channel encryption. The findings may offer the possibility to increase the capacity of the encrypted acoustic meta‐holograms, which can lead to practical applications in, for example, multi‐channel acoustic field communications, complex noise control, and acoustic illusions.
A Multifunctional Rocket‐Like Microneedle System with Thrusters for Self‐Promoted Deep Drug Penetration and Combination Treatment in Melanoma
Authors: Pan Xiaohui , Kang Yixin , Zhou Shuyao , Zhang Tingting , Zheng Yaxin , Jin Qiling , Zhong Wenying , Xu Keming
Published: July 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) proves highly effective in addressing melanoma, and its synergy with targeted therapy offers a promising avenue in tumor treatment. However, the therapeutic outcome is largely impeded by the challenge of current photosensitizers and targeted drugs in reaching deep tumor tissues. Herein, a dually‐layered “microneedle rocket” termed PcNP/TRA‐HA‐Tyr/CLG‐MN is designed. The upper layer of the microneedle (MN) is composed of photodynamically active mesoporous silica nanoparticles, featuring photosensitizers covalently bonded to them. Within the mesopores of these nanoparticles lies trametinib (TRA), a compound that specifically targets the hyperactive MEK pathway present in melanoma cells. The lower layer is composed of an enzyme‐mediated hyaluronic acid‐tyramine hydrogel (HA‐Tyr/CLG) with collagenase (CLG), serving as rocket thrusters for remodeling the extracellular matrix (ECM) in tumor microenvironment. Among the three types of MNs prepared, the PcNP/TRA‐HA‐Tyr(II)/CLG‐MN exhibits the deepest penetration in tumor tissues and the longest retention time in vivo. Notably, the administrations of PcNP/TRA‐HA‐Tyr(II)/CLG‐MN alongside light irradiation significantly suppress the growth of A375‐xenografted tumors in mice. Together, the strategy of combining mesoporous silica nanoparticles, enzymatically cross‐linked hydrogels and CLG‐mediated ECM remodeling enables deep drug penetration and efficacious combination treatment against melanoma, showcasing significant potential in the realm of cancer nanomedicine.
Gallium Nanostructure‐Based Microneedle Patch for Multidrug‐Resistant Bacterial Wound Healing: Enhanced Metal Release and NIR Photothermal Effect
Authors: Wang Bo , Zhang Na , Feng Weichen , Chen Sen , Zhu Xiyu , Shan Xiaohui , Yuan Ruizhi , Yuan Bo , Wang Hongzhang , Zhou Gang , Liu Jing , Sun Xuyang
Published: July 2024

Bacterial infections, especially caused by multidrug‐resistant bacteria, pose a big challenge to the healthcare system. As a group of historic agents, metals with broad‐spectrum antibacterial activity are regarded as promising alternatives to tackle antibiotic resistance. Among them, gallium ions have presented encouraging antibacterial effects in research and preclinic studies. However, utilization of gallium ions has difficulty in achieving high targeting and long‐term effectiveness. With the renaissance of liquid metal, here, a novel and facile antibacterial gallium nanostructure is proposed in which polydopamine‐modified gallium nanocore serves as an ion reservoir for enhanced metal ion release and the surface also permits secondary reaction, allowing for in situ formation of Ag nanoparticles to improve the antibacterial property, ROS generation, and photothermal performance. Notably, ≈100% bacterial killing efficacy can be achieved when combined with NIR laser irradiation. The in vivo treatment results of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)‐infected mice demonstrate that the microneedle patch loaded with nanoparticles exhibits outstanding bacterial elimination and inflammation alleviation, and promotes angiogenesis and collagen deposition, further accelerating wound healing. This gallium‐based nanostructure offers an effective nanoplatform for antibacterial treatments and combinatory strategies, which holds significant promise for refractory multidrug‐resistant bacteria and related infections.
Miniaturized Hard Carbon Nanofiber Aerogels: From Multiscale Electromagnetic Response Manipulation to Integrated Multifunctional Absorbers
Authors: Shao Gaofeng , Xu Rupan , Chen Yu , Yu Gaoyuan , Wu Xiaodong , Quan Bin , Shen Xiaodong , Huang Xiaogu
Published: July 2024

The multiscale structural engineering strategy presents a powerful method for tailoring the structural attributes of materials at various levels, enabling the flexible control and manipulation of their electromagnetic properties. Nonetheless, orchestrating the multiscale architecture of polymer‐derived carbon aerogels specifically for microwave absorption poses significant challenges. Herein, aramid‐derived hard carbon nanofiber aerogel microspheres (CNFAMs) featuring a hierarchical skin‐core structure are fabricated through a wet‐spinning technique, combined with reprotonation‐mediated self‐assembly and carbonization processes. The presence of large‐scale voids between neighboring microspheres and the microscale porosity within the microspheres themselves improves impedance matching and promotes microwave reflection and scattering. The distinct graphitic domains and defects serve as pivotal elements for conduction and polarization losses, significantly impacting microwave attenuation. By meticulously tailoring the macroscale dimensions, microscale porous architecture, and nanoscale domains, the optimized CNFAMs demonstrate a remarkable absorption bandwidth of 9.62 GHz at an ultralow filling of 0.97 wt%. Additionally, the implementation of application‐oriented microwave absorption through the innovative integration of polysilsesquioxane‐CNFAMs in a host–guest aerogel is explored. This composite system brings together broadband absorption, superhydrophobicity, thermal insulation, resistance to freezing, and robust tolerance to harsh environments. Such a multifaceted approach is designed to tackle the growing challenges associated with complex electromagnetic environments effectively.
Stair‐Stepping Mechanical Metamaterials with Programmable Load Plateaus
Authors: Zeng Chengjun , Liu Liwu , Hu Yunqiang , Zhao Wei , Xin Xiaozhou , Liu Yanju , Leng Jinsong
Published: July 2024

Materials with target load plateaus offer the potential for developing innovative vibration suppression and isolation systems for applications such as satellite platforms, submarines, and electric vehicles. However, implementing these materials can pose significant challenges. In this study, stair‐stepping mechanical metamaterials with programmable load plateaus are presented, which are created via a three‐level (unit, module, and 3D object) construction strategy. The strategy inspired by the inverse design concept achieves tunability in the number and properties of load plateaus within the force–displacement profiles of the metamaterials. This approach even yields appealing stair‐stepping response patterns, as validated by experiments and finite element simulations. Promisingly, programming the unit from its initial configuration to a “zero stiffness” configuration enables these metamaterials excellent vibration isolation performance. Furthermore, two reversible methods are proposed for switching among various unit configurations, namely shape memory programming and supporting payload. This innovative design strategy for programmable load plateaus opens up new possibilities for creating metamaterials with customized force–displacement responses. It also provides opportunities to incorporate multimodal vibration isolation capabilities into precision devices.
Highly Luminescent Shell‐Less Indium Phosphide Quantum Dots Enabled by Atomistically Tailored Surface States
Authors: Gwak Namyoung , Shin Seungki , Yoo Hyeri , Seo Gyeong Won , Kim Seongchan , Jang Hyunwoo , Lee Minwoo , Park Tae Hwan , Kim Byong Jae , Lim Jaehoon , Kim Soo Young , Kim Sangtae , Hwang Gyu Weon , Oh Nuri
Published: July 2024

Contrary to the prevailing notion that shell structures arise from the intricate chemistry and surface defects of InP quantum dots (QDs), an innovative strategy that remarkably enhances the luminescence efficiency of core‐only InP QDs to over 90% is introduced. This paradigm shift is achieved through the concurrent utilization of group 2 and 3 metal‐derived ligands, providing an effective remedy for surface defects and facilitating charge recombination. Specifically, a combination of Zn carboxylate and Ga chloride is employed to address the undercoordination issues associated with In and P atoms, leading to the alleviation of in‐gap trap states. The intricate interplay and proportional ratio between Ga‐ and Zn‐containing ligands play pivotal roles in attaining record‐high luminescence efficiency in core‐only InP QDs, as successfully demonstrated across various sizes and color emissions. Moreover, the fabrication of electroluminescent devices relying solely on InP core emission opens a new direction in optoelectronics, demonstrating the potential of the approach not only in optoelectronic applications but also in catalysis or energy conversion by charge transfer.
Trace Small Molecular/Nano‐Colloidal Multiscale Electrolyte Additives Enable Ultra‐Long Lifespan of Zinc Metal Anodes
Authors: Xiao Xuemei , Ye Xiaoman , Wu Zhijing , Wu Xin , Yu Juezhi , Gu Lin , Liu Sheng
Published: July 2024

Electrolyte additives are efficient to improve the performance of aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs), yet the current electrolyte additives are limited to fully water‐soluble additives (FWAs) and water‐insoluble additives (WIAs). Herein, trace slightly water‐soluble additives (SWAs) of zinc acetylacetonate (ZAA) were introduced to aqueous ZnSO4 electrolytes. The SWA system of ZAA is composed of a FWA part and a WIA part in a dynamic manner of dissolution equilibrium. The FWA part exists as soluble small molecules, which efficiently regulate Zn2+ ion solvation structure, while the WIA part exists as insoluble nano‐colloids, which in‐situ form a thick and robust solid electrolyte interface film on zinc metal anodes (ZMAs). Such small molecular/nano‐colloidal multiscale electrolyte additives of ZAA are capable to not only improve ionic conductivity and transference number but also inhibit corrosion, hydrogen evolution, and Zn dendrite on ZMAs. The SWA‐based Zn∥Zn half battery delivers a superb cumulative plating capacity of 15 Ah cm−2 under 1 mAh cm−2 and 20 mA cm−2, and the SWA‐based NH4V4O10∥Zn pouch cell obtains a capacity retention of 67.8% within 4000 cycles under 4 A g−1. The study provides innovative insights for rational design of electrolyte additives, which may pave the way for the practicality of AZIBs.
Fluctuating Flame from Suspending Ferrimagnetic Core/Shell Al@Fe3O4 Nanoparticles in a Magnetic Field
Authors: Maini Shina , Wang Anqi , Wen John Z.
Published: July 2024

Core–shell fuel@oxidizer nanocomposite can combust in oxygen‐starved environment. A ferrimagnetic reactive particle, being successfully engineered, allows for manipulation using an external magnetic field and facilitates target heat or gas production. This research reports on interesting flame dynamics of newly synthesized core–shell Al@Fe3O4 nanoparticles under the influence of a magnetic field. Serving as an oxidizer and a functional ferrimagnetic component, iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) are grown in situ on nano‐sized Al (n‐Al) particles. Electron microscopic images demonstrate nearly monodispersed IONPs ≈7 nm decorating the surface of n‐Al. X‐ray diffractogram and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirm the formation of Fe3O4. Thermal analysis suggests the as‐prepared core–shell particles predominantly go through a solid‐state reaction mechanism that exhibits 30% lower activation energy compared to physically‐mixed nanocomposite (215.0 vs 310.8 kJ mol−1). The core/shell particles can be ignited and combust under laser irradiation with or without the effect of a magnetic field. When suspended in the middle of the tube by the magnetic field, an interesting combustion process is observed, highlighting a grow‐shrink‐grow flame resulted from the interactions between the combustion products and the external magnetic field, as well as backfiring at the bottom of the sample without major changes in burning rate and ignition delay.
Electrically‐Driven Light Source Embedded in a GaP Nanowaveguide for Visible‐Range Photonics on Chip
Authors: Lebedev Denis V. , Solomonov Nikita A. , Fedorov Vladimir V. , Sharov Vladislav A. , Kirilenko Demid A. , Gritchenko Anton S. , Melentiev Pavel N. , Balykin Victor I. , Shkoldin Vitaly A. , Bogdanov Andrey A. , Makarov Sergey V. , Golubok Alexander O. , Mukhin Ivan S.
Published: July 2024

The key components of photonic integrated circuits are nanoscale optica emitters and nanowaveguides. III‐V semiconductor nanostructures are considered as the most promising material platform for these components due to highly efficient luminescence and high refractive index, but the problem of emission coupling with waveguide is to be solved. In this work, the use of GaP nanowires (NWs) with different types of doping (GaP:Si or GaP:Be) is proposed as optical waveguides with directly integrated electrically‐driven light sources, solving the problem of emission‐to‐waveguide coupling. Single NWs are integrated with electrodes and pump electroluminescence by a tunnel junction allowing to study emission properties with nanoscale spatial resolution. Basing on the experiments on scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM), electron microscopy, time‐resolved photoluminescence micro‐spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and STM‐induced electroluminescence, it is proven that GaP NWs exhibit different integrated light‐source on doping type of NWs. GaP:Be NWs contain inclusion of the crystalline wurtzite phase with a direct bandgap, and, thus, these NW regions can be considered as electrically‐driven nanoscale sources of light monolithically integrated into GaP NW‐based waveguides. Meanwhile, GaP:Si NWs work as optical waveguides capable of efficient light generation over the entire length of NW. The developed designs are promising for construction of integrated photonic circuits.