bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Streamer Propagation in a Long Gap in Model Liquids
Authors: Dung N.V. , Høidalen H.K. , Linhjell D. , Lundgaard L.E. , Unge M.
Published: February 2018

A summary of streamer propagation in Exxsol-D140 and Marcol-52 under various experimental conditions is given. The results are compared to those of cyclohexane and mineral transformer oil. Streamer propagation is polarity and liquid dependent. The breakdown and acceleration voltages are also governed by liquid chemistry. Reduced pressure largely enhances streamer propagation of both polarities. A low ionization potential additive significantly affects positive streamers while an electron scavenger markedly impacts negative streamers. Adding a low ionization potential additive caused positive streamers to behave like those in mineral transformer oil while adding an electron scavenger had the same influence on negative streamers. Processes at the streamer heads are suggested to be responsible for streamer propagation.
Investigation of the Static Breakdown Voltage of the Lubricating Film in a Mechanical Ball Bearing
Authors: Joshi Abhishek , Blennow Jörgen
Published: February 2018

In this paper, the current pulse (discharge) activity in a small bearing is investigated when current-limited DC voltages of different levels are applied to the shaft under varying rotational speeds and mechanical loads. The measurements show that the inception voltage of discharges in the bearing is higher than the extinction voltage. However, when the discharge activity has been intense the bearing exhibits difficulties to recover its insulating properties when the voltage is decreased to a low voltage level and thus the discharge activity continues. The measurements also show that at low voltages the bearing acts as an insulator but if the voltage is increased the bearing starts to act as a conductor. This transition occurs during a narrow voltage interval. The time interval between two consecutive current pulses decreases significantly with increasing shaft voltage.
Measurement Techniques for Identifying Polarity Dependence of Ion Injection in Transformer Oil
Authors: Schiessling Joachim , Ramesh Deepthi K , Serdyuk Yuriy V. , Hjortstam Olof
Published: February 2018

Charge injection from metallic surfaces into mineral oil is investigated utilizing transient currents recorded in coaxial cylindrical electrode systems with different degrees of inhomogeneity of electric fields. The currents obtained with single polarity and reverse polarity methods demonstrate differences in their behavior depending on the geometry and type of the test voltage. The data show clear relation between the sign of the current and the polarity of the applied voltage, which is attributed to the polarity dependence of the ion injection from oil-metal interfaces. The results of the experiments are discussed in terms of relaxation time of the system and time of flight (drift time) of ions in the oil gap.
Effect of High Voltage Impulses on Surface Discharge at the Oil-Paper Interface
Authors: Clemence Kizza R , Ghaffarian Niasar M , Nikjoo R , Wang X , Edin H
Published: February 2018

High voltage transients in electrical power systems are mainly caused by lightning strikes and switching operations. The high voltage transients above the basic insulation level (BIL) would degrade the electrical insulation of the equipment.In this work, the effect of high voltage impulses on the trend of the surface discharge at the oil-paper interface was investigated. The partial discharge patterns were recorded by the Insulation Condition Monitoring (ICM) system. The HV impulses were generated by a standard 1.2/50 μs HV impulse generator. The measurement results presented in this paper seem to show that surfacedischarge would cause complete breakdown (continuous flashovers) at the oil-paper interface much faster when the test sample is first aged by HV impulses comparedto when it is unaged.
Radial Flow Paths for Oil in Mass Impregnated HVDC Subsea Cables
Authors: Støa Bendik , Ildstad Erling , Runde Magne
Published: February 2018

During temperature cycling the radial flow of oil, which is caused by differences in thermal expansion between the oil and paper, may lead to cavity formation in mass impregnated HVDC cables. Partial discharge activity in these voids is an important failure mechanism in this type of cable, but the governing processes are not fully established.This paper contributes to flow modeling through a literature survey and a comparison between two alternative flow patterns in the insulation. Only one detailed model of radial flow in this kind of insulation has been found in the literature. The model, which is based on porous media flow in a homogeneous insulation with constant porosity, and its suitability as a starting point for further modeling is reviewed.Two possible flow paths, radially outwards through the paper or between paper tapes from one layer to the next, have been considered. Based on previously unpublished experimental results, the flow resistance R of the two alternatives has been estimated. This quantity is found to be of the same order of magnitude in both cases, meaning that there probably will be flow both through and between the paper tapes.
Corona at Large Coated Electrodes
Authors: Larsson Mats , Hjortstam Olof , Faleke Håkan , Arevalo Liliana , Wu Dong , Ming Li
Published: February 2018

In geometries relevant form HVDC applications where large electrodes and large air gaps are utilized, the observed corona can be quite different from geometries studied in the literature where needles or wires are used as high voltage electrodes. Corona discharges at large electrodes often initiates when the electric field on the electrode surface appears lower than the critical electric field strength, 2.4 kV/mm. Surface contamination of the electrode has been pointed out as the reason for such discharge events. Our experimental results indicate that one possible way to prevent such corona is to coat the electrode with an insulating material, such as epoxy or oxide layers. It seems that the layer separates any corona inducing particle from the electrode, which in turn hinders the corona to form. However, as the layer breaks down and gets punctured, the corona preventing propertied disappears and corona forms easily. We conclude that as long as the layer doesn’t get punctured, coating electrodes with insulating material is preventing corona to initiate at electrical fields below the critical electric field, as given by the electrode geometry. In contrast to positive polarity, for negative polarity the epoxy coating could withstand high electric fields without breaking down.
Strategies for Inclusion of Structural Mass Estimates in the Direct-Drive Generator Optimization Process
Authors: Henriksen Matthew L , Jensen Bogi B
Published: February 2018

Usage of a lookup table containing the structural mass and air gap deformation for direct-drive wind turbines of various dimensions is demonstrated. The development of the table is described in detail. Optimal generator designs while both neglecting and considering the structural mass are also included.
Estimating Transmission Line Parameters of Three-core Power Cables with Common Earth Screen
Authors: Li Yan , Wouters Peter A.A.F. , Wagenaars Paul , Van der Wielen Peter C.J.M. , Steenis Fred
Published: February 2018

The propagation modes of travelling wave in a threecore power cable (XLPE or PILC) with common earth screen can be uncoupled into three modes: one shield to phase (SP) mode and two phase to phase (PP) modes. A generic model approach is applied in this paper to estimate the transmission line parameters of three-core cables with common earth screen, which includes the effect of different layers on series impedance and admittance. The characteristic impedance, the propagation velocity and the attenuation for SP and PP modes of two cable types, PILC and XLPE are modeled and compared with test results. Calculated parameters match within 5% for the characteristic impedances of different modes and 5% for the velocity for the PILC cable. Larger deviations occurred for XLPE cable, due to difficulties in appropriate modeling the semiconducting insulation screens around each conductor. The attenuation for both PILC and XLPE is hard to predict because data on complex permittivity, being the dominant factor, is hardly known.
Effects of Ambient Conditions on the Dielectric Properties of Thermally Sprayed Ceramic Coating
Authors: Niittymäki M , Rotthier B. , Lahti K. , Suhonen T. , Metsäjoki J
Published: February 2018

Thermal spraying techniques are used to manufacture insulating coatings especially for demanding applications like fuel cells where normal insulating materials cannot be used. In electrical insulation applications, the mostly used coating materials are aluminum oxide (Al2O3), magnesium oxide (MgO) and magnesium aluminate (MgAl2O4). Dielectric properties of thermally sprayed ceramic coatings are strongly affected by ambient conditions, and in addition to this they are not well documented in the literature. In this paper the effects of environmental conditions on certain dielectric properties of a thermally sprayed coating are studied. DC resistivity as well as permittivity and losses at different frequencies at relative humidities of 20 % and 45 % at temperature of 20 °C, 40 °C and 60 °C will be reported in the paper for Al2O3 samples sprayed using HVOF (High Velocity Oxygen Fuel) technique. DC dielectric breakdown strength is also studied for the HVOF alumina coating at temperature of 20 °C and relative humidity of 20 %. Effects of ambient conditions and coating material composition are also analyzed.
Water Diffusion Barrier – A Novel Design for High Voltage Subsea Cables
Authors: Furuheim Knut Magne , Nilsson Susanne , Hvidsten Sverre , Hellesø Svein Magne
Published: February 2018

High voltage subsea cables are normally sheathed with a metallic water barrier at voltage levels above 36 kV as recommended by the standards (IEC 60840). The main concern with water ingress in power cables is the risk of water tree formation. Water tree growth will reduce the lifetime of power cables. For dynamic cable designs there are today few reliable alternatives to prevent the water ingress. Here a novel electrical semi-conductive water barrier is presented, based on a multilayer polymer sheath design where the arrangement of layers is based on numerical simulations using measured water transport data.
Robustness Analysis of Classical High Voltage Joint Design Under High Voltage DC Stress
Authors: Fälth Fredrik , Kumar Santhosh , Ghorbani Hossein
Published: February 2018

The demand for extruded HVDC cable systems for higher voltages has been increasing in different fields. This demand comes from the need for higher transmission capacity in applications such as integration of wind power, power system interconnectors and connection of offshore oil and gas platforms to land. Prefabricated joints are used to connect the cable delivery lengths. If badly designed, the possibility of breakdown in the joints is higher than in other parts of the system because of the number of interfaces and triple points between different materials. Due to the huge potential costs and the down-time imposed to the system in case of a joint failure, the robustness of the joints is of great importance. Two main approaches in the design of prefabricated joints for extruded cables exist in which the more recent one takes advantage of the nonlinear properties of modern field grading materials. In this work, we have examined the design challenges with focus on robustness issues in a 150 kV classical joint design without field grading material. The results show that with this approach, there are serious robustness issues which are challenging to overcome without field grading material.
Charge Decay Measurements on a Polymeric Insulation Material under Controlled Humidity Conditions
Authors: Späck Yvonne , Kumura Sarath , Gubanski Stanislaw
Published: February 2018

In this work a systematic study on the influence of relative humidity on the charge decay of high-temperature-vulcanized flat silicone rubber samples is carried out by means of contactless measurements of the surface potential. Both virgin and aged (by a long-term corona treatment) samples were used for the experiments. Temporal and spatial variations of the potential were monitored during the charge decay process. The analysis of the results indicated that the charge decay becomes faster due
Dielectric Breakdown Strength of Polymer Nanocomposites-The Effect of Nanofiller Content
Authors: Takala Markus
Published: February 2018

Insulation materials can be tailored by compounding nanofillers and polymer materials. The advantageous changes in properties of polymer nanocomposites can be explained by the large interface area of the nanofillers. Theoretical models developed in the field of nanodielectrics concentrate on the analysis of the interface volume.Dielectric breakdown strength (DBS) is one of the most important properties of an insulation material. The DBS of nanocomposites depends heavily on the nanofiller content and even small quantities can cause improvement. This is linked to the maximum interface volume achieved already at low nanofiller concentrations. Homogeneous nanodispersion is the key for DBS increase and reliable results. Often the most profitable nanofiller quantities are below 5 wt-%. The same kind of behaviour can be seen with different voltage shapes, but with dc voltage the increase is bigger. DBS has a maximum value with respect to nanofiller amount and decreases thereafter. Filler quantities around 5 wt-% and even lower are the most attractive considering DBS of nanocomposites.
Sensitivity Improvement of Acoustic Partial Discharge Detection Measurements through Wavelet Analysis
Authors: Evagorou Demetres , Janus Patrick , Niasar Mohamad Ghaffarian , Edin Hans
Published: February 2018

Condition monitoring of power equipment is a vital stepin extending the lifetime of existing equipment andreducing costs for utilities while minimizing the risk ofunscheduled outages. Partial discharge (PD) monitoringhas evolved as a reliable mean of determiningdeterioration in insulation systems. Acoustic emissiondetection techniques are usually utilized for PDdetection mainly in oil-filled transformers offering theadvantage of being immune to electrical noise and amethod to localize PDs. In this work it was attempted toimprove the sensitivity of acoustic measurementsthrough wavelet analysis and estimation of the thresholdvalue from actual measurements of the noise, whichproved to be more effective compared to otherestimation values. The analysis was performed onlaboratory measurements from a 36 kV condenserbushing known to exhibit PD activity acquired with alow cost PD acoustic sensor developed at KTH. As anext step the results have to be verified by onlinemeasurements, which can result in the addition of anCondition monitoring of power equipment is a vital step in extending the lifetime of existing equipment and reducing costs for utilities while minimizing the risk of unscheduled outages. Partial discharge (PD) monitoring has evolved as a reliable mean of determining deterioration in insulation systems. Acoustic emission detection techniques are usually utilized for PD detection mainly in oil-filled transformers offering the advantage of being immune to electrical noise and a method to localize PDs. In this work it was attempted to improve the sensitivity of acoustic measurements through wavelet analysis and estimation of the threshold value from actual measurements of the noise, which proved to be more effective compared to other estimation values. The analysis was performed on laboratory measurements from a 36 kV condenser bushing known to exhibit PD activity acquired with a low cost PD acoustic sensor developed at KTH. As a next step the results have to be verified by online measurements, which can result in the addition of an onboard signal-processing box for improved sensitivity.
Influence of Applied Voltage and Temperature on the Current through the Alumina-filled poly(ethylene-co-butyl acrylate) Nanocomposites Under Constant Stress
Authors: Jaeverberg N , Venkatesulu B , Jonsson B.L.G. , Edin H
Published: February 2018

The current through the poly(ethylene-co-butyl acrylate) with 13 wt% of butyl acrylate (EBA) filled with 6 wt% of alumina nanoparticles with an approximate diameter of 45 nm was studied under constant stress application. The particles were either unmodified or surface-treated with aminopropyltriethoxy silane. The current was measured either until breakdown or for maximum stress duration of 10 minutes. Two voltage levels were chosen: 15 and 22.5 kV, which were low enough not to cause a breakdown during the ramping of the voltage at the rate of 490 V/s to the constant voltage level at room temperature. Several ramping rates {100, 260, 500, 1007} V/s were also tested for the reference unfilled material to evaluate its influence on the time to breakdown. Several temperature levels were tried: 20 (room temperature), 40 and 50 ºC.As expected, higher applied voltage caused higher current through the materials, while higher temperature caused earlier breakdown as well as higher current. At the lower voltage level most of the materials survived the testing. At the higher voltage level most of the samples of the unfilled reference material failed at the temperatures above room temperature while most of the nanocomposite samples survived the testing even at higher temperatures.
Thickness Dependency in Dielectric Breakdown Strength of Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene-Silica Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Ranta Hannes , Rytöluoto Ilkka , Lahti Kari
Published: February 2018

The power law relationship has been used to some extent in order to compare dielectric breakdown strength results between materials of varying thickness. However, especially in case of relatively new materials such as nanocomposites, it can be questioned whether the measured results actually behave accordingly to the power law and to what extent – most importantly, can the power law be used to predict properties of thinner films than those actually measured. This paper addresses the problem in case of biaxially oriented PPsilica nanocomposite films of different thickness, the breakdown results of which are compared and fitted to the power law relationship.
Capacitor performance limitations in high power converter applications
Authors: El-Khatib Walid Ziad , Holboell Joachim , Rasmussen Tonny W.
Published: February 2018

High voltage low inductance capacitors are used in converters as HVDC-links, snubber circuits and sub model (MMC) capacitances. They facilitate the possibility of large peak currents under high frequent or transient voltage applications. On the other hand, using capacitors with larger equivalent series inductances include the risk of transient overvoltages, with a negative effect on life time and reliability of the capacitors. These allowable limits of such current and voltage peaks are decided by the ability of the converter components, including the capacitors, to withstand them over the expected life time. In this paper results are described from investigations on the electrical environment of these capacitors, including all the conditions they would be exposed to, thereby trying to find the tradeoffs needed to find a suitable capacitor. Different types of capacitors with the same voltage ratings and capacitances where investigated and compared a) on a component scale, characterizing the capacitors transient performance and b) as part of different converter applications, where the series inductance plays a role. In that way, better insight is achieved on how the capacitor construction can affect the total performance of the converter.
Correlation between serum Calcium levels and smear grading among the pulmonary tuberculosis patients
Authors: CHANDRA T. Jaya , SOWJANYA M.
Published: February 2018

Objective: To find the serum calcium (Ca) levels in the pulmonary

tuberculosis (PT) patients and its correlation with smear grading.

Methods: Microscopically

confirmed PT patients were included in the test group and healthy individuals

in the control group. Two sputum samples were collected from the participants

by the same day approach. Smears were stained by Ziehl Neelsen staining

technique. Simultaneously 5 ml blood was collected; serum was separated by

centrifugation at 3000 rpm, 10 minutes. Serum Ca was estimated by kit method,

by auto analyzer. ANOVA test was used to find the statistical significance.

Results:

Total 100 participants were included. The mean serum Ca levels were 7.2 mg/dL

and 9.4 mg/dL in the test and control groups, respectively. Grade wise the mean

serum Ca levels were 7.4 mg/dL, 7.3 mg/dL, 7.1 mg/dL and 7 mg/dL respectively

for scanty, 1+. 2+ and 3+. Statistically the difference was not significant

among the groups and the grades.

Conclusion: As per our study hypocalcemia is observed in PT

patients and the mean serum Ca levels were decreased with smear grading. J Microbiol Infect Dis 2018; 8(1):19-22
Islamiseringsprosessen i Malaysia. Hva innebærer den og hvilke årssammenhenger kan ligge bak?
Authors: Eidhamar Levi Geir
Published: February 2018

ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The article presents the process of Islamization in Malaysia since the 1980s. This development is analysed based on various theories within sociology of religion. The presentation starts with a broad historical overview. Then in provides a description of the Islamic sacralization at the individual and societal levels. At the end, possible internal religious reasons for the development are discussed.NORSK SAMMENDRAG: Artikkelen presenterer islamiseringsprosessen som har funnet sted i Malaysia siden 1980-tallet. Utviklingen analyseres basert på ulike religionssosiologiske teorier. Presentasjonen starter med en bred historisk oversikt. Deretter gis en beskrivelse av den islamske sakraliseringen på individ- og samfunnsnivå. Til slutt drøftes mulige religionsinterne årsaksforklaringer til utviklingen.
The first Paleogene (Oligocene) sea turtle record of South America
Authors: Cadena Edwin , Abella Juan , Gregori Maria
Published: February 2018

The evolution and occurrence of fossil sea turtles at the Pacific margin of South America is poorly known and restricted to Neogene (Miocene) findings from Perú. Here we report and describe the first record of Paleogene (Late Oligocene, ~24 Ma) sea turtle remains. The fossil material corresponds to a single, isolated and well-preserved costal bone found at the Montañita/Olón locality, Santa Elena Province, Ecuador. Comparisons with other Oligocene and extant representatives allow us to confirm that belong to a sea turtle characterized by: lack of lateral ossification, allowing the dorsal exposure of the distal end of ribs; dorsal surface of bone sculptured, changing from dense vermiculation at the vertebral scute region and changing to anastomosing pattern of grooves at the most lateral portion of the costal. This fossil finding shows the high potential that the Ecuadorian Paleogene outcrops have in order to explore the evolution and paleobiogeography distribution of sea turtles by the time that the Pacific and the Atlantic oceans were connected via the Panama basin.
Electrocardiogram Intricacies in a Patient With Prostate Cancer—The Heart of the Matter
Authors: Yuan Cuizhen , Peng Linfeng , Yang Dandan
Published: October 2024

This case report describes the electrocardiagram findings of a patient in their 60s with chest tightness and dyspnea, left ventricular systolic impairment, and elevated troponin I levels.
Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy Intolerance in Heart Failure
Authors: Ayoola Adeoluwa , Ohringer Alison , Nguyen Oanh Kieu
Published: October 2024

This Teachable Moment discusses guideline-directed medical therapy intolerance in a woman in her 80s with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy.
Vitamin K2 in Managing Nocturnal Leg Cramps
Authors: Tan Jing , Zhu Rui , Li Ying , Wang Li , Liao Shigeng , Cheng Lin , Mao LingXiu , Jing Dan
Published: October 2024

Importance

Currently, there are no treatments for nocturnal leg cramps (NLCs) that have been proven to be both safe and effective. Seeking safe and effective approaches for managing NLCs is of crucial importance.

Objective

To determine whether vitamin K2 is better than placebo in managing NLCs.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial was conducted in China between September 2022 and December 2023. This study used a volunteer sample comprising community-dwelling individuals 65 years and older with 2 or more documented episodes of NLCs during 2 weeks of screening. Researchers performed a history and physical screening of candidates recruited from the community through advertisements, and eligible participants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive vitamin K2 or a placebo for 8 weeks.

Interventions

Patients orally took capsules containing either vitamin K2 (menaquinone 7), 180 μg, or a similar-looking placebo every day for 8 weeks. The study products were custom manufactured to have identical packaging and for the capsules to have matching appearance and identical excipients that shared similar taste and weight.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the mean number of NLCs per week between the vitamin K2 and the placebo group. Secondary outcomes included the duration of muscle cramps measured in minutes and the severity of muscle cramps assessed using an analog scale ranging from 1 to 10.

Results

Among the 310 participants, 111 participants were excluded. Of the 199 enrolled individuals, 108 (54.3%) were female, and the mean (SD) age was 72.3 (5.5) years. A total of 103 patients (51.8%) were randomly assigned to receive vitamin K2 and 96 (48.2%) were assigned to placebo. The mean (SD) baseline weekly frequency of cramps was comparable in both the vitamin K2 group (2.60 [0.81]) and the placebo group (2.71 [0.80]). During the 8-week intervention, the vitamin K2 group experienced a reduction in the mean (SD) weekly frequency of cramps to 0.96 (1.41). Meanwhile, the placebo group maintained mean (SD) weekly frequency of cramps at 3.63 (2.20). The between-group difference was statistically significant (difference, −2.67; 95% CI, −2.86 to −2.49; P < .001). The vitamin K2 group had a more significant mean (SD) reduction in NLC severity (−2.55 [2.12] points) compared with the placebo group (−1.24 [1.16] points). The vitamin K2 group exhibited a more pronounced mean (SD) decrease in the duration of NLCs (−0.90 [0.88] minutes) than the placebo group (−0.32 [0.78] minutes). No adverse events related to vitamin K2 use were identified.

Conclusions and Relevance

This randomized clinical trial showed that vitamin K2 supplementation significantly reduced the frequency, intensity, and duration of NLCs in an older population with good safety.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05547750
Medicine Must Plan to Protect Immigrant Patients and Their Families
Authors: Kuczewski Mark , Saadi Altaf
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the need for health care systems and the medical profession to prepare to protect immigrant patients and their families and to avoid being coerced into compromising patient care and the values of the profession.
Prenatal Cannabis Exposure and Executive Function and Aggressive Behavior at Age 5 Years
Authors: Keim Sarah A. , Fried Peter , Yeates Keith Owen , Boone Kelly M. , Vrantsidis Daphne M. , Dean Abigail , Murnan Aaron W. , Rausch Joseph , Klebanoff Mark A.
Published: October 2024

Importance

Cannabis use during pregnancy is increasingly common in the US and may affect the development and behavior of preschool-aged children.

Objective

To prospectively investigate the association of prenatal cannabis exposure with executive function and aggressive behavior at age 5 years.

Design, Setting, Participants

This cohort study was conducted from 2016 through 2020. Data analysis was conducted from 2022 through 2024. Patients aged 16 through 50 years who were able to communicate in English and intended to deliver at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center were enrolled in a pregnancy research repository. Participants (n = 355) who gave consent for future contact and whose child(ren) was presumed to be alive were invited to participate again at child age 5 years (children born May 25, 2010, through February 7, 2016) and 250 children participated (70%).

Exposure

Cannabis exposure was measured prospectively by urine toxicology, maternal self-report, and obstetric record abstraction.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Executive function and aggressive behavior, measured via multimodal assessment by staff masked to exposure status. Outcomes were chosen a priori.

Results

Of 250 children, 80 were exposed to cannabis (32%). Use of tobacco, other drugs, and alcohol during pregnancy was common (22% to 39% each). Most families were living in poverty. There were 155 children who were Black/African American, non-Hispanic (62%); 11 were Hispanic (4%); 34 indicated more than one race or another race, non-Hispanic (14%); and 50 were White, non-Hispanic (20%). Age-corrected standard scores for children’s attention and inhibitory control (National Institutes of Health Toolbox) were about 0.4 SDs lower for those exposed to cannabis compared with unexposed (β = −6.1 points; 95% CI, −10.8 to −1.4), following propensity score weighting and adjustment for confounders. Exposed children also exhibited poorer task-based planning ability and more observed aggression. Caregiver ratings of executive function and behavior and laboratory assessments of other aspects of executive functioning showed no differences by exposure status.

Conclusions and Relevance

Results from this contemporary US cohort where prenatal cannabis exposure was common and indicated that exposed children exhibited some differences in aspects of executive function and behavior relevant to long-term academic success and adaptive functioning. These results may be considered in refining clinical recommendations regarding cannabis use during pregnancy.
Tenant Right-to-Counsel and Adverse Birth Outcomes in New York, New York
Authors: Leifheit Kathryn M. , Chen Katherine L. , Anderson Nathaniel W. , Yama Cecile , Sriram Achyuth , Pollack Craig Evan , Gemmill Alison , Zimmerman Frederick J.
Published: October 2024

Importance

In 2017, New York, New York, launched the United States’ first right-to-counsel program, guaranteeing lawyers to low-income tenants in select zip codes, which was associated with reducing eviction risk by half. Given documented associations between evictions during pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes, the right-to-counsel program may be associated with improved birth outcomes.

Objective

To measure associations between zip code–level right-to-counsel access and risk of adverse birth outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight, among infants born to Medicaid-insured birthing parents.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study leveraged the staggered rollout of New York’s right-to-counsel program from January 2016 to February 2020 as a natural experiment using a population-based sample of live births to Medicaid-insured birthing parents residing in New York, New York. Data were analyzed from February 2022 to September 2024.

Exposure

Zip code right-to-counsel status 9 months prior to birth.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Adverse birth outcomes were measured using individual birth records from the New York Bureau of Vital Statistics. Outcomes included dichotomous indicators of low birth weight (<2500 g), preterm birth (<37 weeks’ gestation), and a composite of both. Difference-in-differences linear probability models controlled for year, month, and zip code and included clustered standard errors.

Results

Among 260 493 live births (mean [SD] birthing parent age, 29 [6] years) from January 2016 to February 2020, 43 081 births (17%) were to birthing parents residing in zip codes where right-to-counsel was available during pregnancy. Exposure to right-to-counsel during pregnancy was associated with statistically significant reductions in infants’ probability of adverse birth outcomes, with reductions of 0.73 (95% CI, 0.06-1.41) percentage points in low birth weight, 0.91 (95% CI, 0.10-1.71) percentage points in preterm birth, and 0.96 (95% CI, 0.09-1.84) percentage points in the composite outcome in treated vs untreated zip codes.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study found that right-to-counsel was associated with reduced risk of adverse birth outcomes among Medicaid-insured birthing parents. These findings suggest that eviction prevention via right-to-counsel may have benefits that extend beyond the courtroom and across the life-course.
Breast cancer survival prediction using an automated mitosis detection pipeline
Authors: Stathonikos Nikolas , Aubreville Marc , de Vries Sjoerd , Wilm Frauke , Bertram Christof A , Veta Mitko , van Diest Paul J
Published: October 2024

Mitotic count (MC) is the most common measure to assess tumor proliferation in breast cancer patients and is highly predictive of patient outcomes. It is, however, subject to inter‐ and intraobserver variation and reproducibility challenges that may hamper its clinical utility. In past studies, artificial intelligence (AI)‐supported MC has been shown to correlate well with traditional MC on glass slides. Considering the potential of AI to improve reproducibility of MC between pathologists, we undertook the next validation step by evaluating the prognostic value of a fully automatic method to detect and count mitoses on whole slide images using a deep learning model. The model was developed in the context of the Mitosis Domain Generalization Challenge 2021 (MIDOG21) grand challenge and was expanded by a novel automatic area selector method to find the optimal mitotic hotspot and calculate the MC per 2 mm2. We employed this method on a breast cancer cohort with long‐term follow‐up from the University Medical Centre Utrecht (N = 912) and compared predictive values for overall survival of AI‐based MC and light‐microscopic MC, previously assessed during routine diagnostics. The MIDOG21 model was prognostically comparable to the original MC from the pathology report in uni‐ and multivariate survival analysis. In conclusion, a fully automated MC AI algorithm was validated in a large cohort of breast cancer with regard to retained prognostic value compared with traditional light‐microscopic MC.
Building the OAChangeMap to Improve the Service Delivery of the New South Wales Osteoarthritis Chronic Care Program: A Worked Example of Using a Codesign Framework
Authors: Eyles Jillian P. , Kobayashi Sarah , Duong Vicky , Hunter David J. , Avdalis Christos , Buttel Tom , Dawson Greer , Dório Murillo , D'Souza Nicole , Foster Kirsty , Maka Katherine , March Marie K. , Menz Fred , Pratt Carin , Rankin Nicole M. , Richardson Daniel , Thompson Julia , Strong Charlotte , Bowden Jocelyn L.
Published: October 2024

Objective

The Osteoarthritis Chronic Care Program (OACCP) has been implemented in Australian public hospitals to deliver best evidence osteoarthritis (OA) care. It is important to ensure that the OACCP continues to deliver evidence‐based OA care as intended. We aimed to identify barriers and enablers to delivering the OACCP, prioritize the barriers, and generate strategies to address them.

Methods

This study provides a worked example of a seven‐step theory‐informed codesign framework. We invited OACCP coordinators to participate in semistructured interviews (analyzed thematically) and complete a questionnaire to identify barriers and enablers to delivery of the OACCP. We then invited a broader group of stakeholders (OACCP coordinators, health managers, policy makers, consumers, and researchers) to prioritize the barriers via a short survey (survey 2). We held five codesign workshops in which we mapped the priority barriers to the Theoretical Domains Framework and developed strategies to address them.

Results

Sixteen coordinators were interviewed, and the main barriers identified were as follows: (1) patients often have beliefs that are inconsistent with best evidence care, (2) there are aspects of clinical care that are not delivered optimally, and (3) system‐level factors are a barrier to optimal patient care and sustainability of the OACCP. We codesigned a plan for action with patient educational materials, shared decision‐making tools, and health professional education and training.

Conclusion

Our worked example of codesign used a theory‐based, data‐driven approach with key stakeholders, identified and prioritized barriers to the delivery of the OACCP, acknowledged enablers, and generated a plan for feasible strategies to improve the program.
Comparing Rituximab and Cyclophosphamide in Induction Therapy for Childhood‐Onset Anti‐Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody‐Associated Vasculitis: An ARChiVe Registry Cohort Study
Authors: Gagne Samuel J. , Sivaraman Vidya , Bosman Else S. , Klamer Brett , Morishita Kimberly A. , Huber Adam , Orjuela Alvaro , Eberhard Barbara , Myrup Charlotte , Gerstbacher Dana , Foell Dirk , Al‐Abadi Eslam , McErlane Flora , Cook Kathryn , Wagner‐Weiner Linda , Elder Melissa , Moorthy L. Nandini , Dancey Paul , Yeung Rae , Khubchandani Raju , Deepak Samundeeswari , Charuvanij Sirirat , Tarvin Stacey , Shenoi Susan , Tanner Tamara , Brown Kelly , Cabral David A. ,   for the ARChiVe Investigators Network within the PedVas Initiative
Published: October 2024

Objective

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) are chronic life‐threatening vasculitides requiring substantial immunotherapy. Adult trials identified rituximab (RTX) as an alternative to cyclophosphamide (CYC) for remission induction of GPA and MPA. Disease rarity has limited feasibility of similar trials with pediatric patients. We aim to evaluate the relative efficacy and toxicity of CYC and RTX for patients with childhood GPA and MPA through registry‐based comparative evaluation.

Methods

From A Registry of Childhood Vasculitis, we identified patients with GPA and MPA who received induction with RTX or CYC. Pediatric Vasculitis Activity Score (PVAS) and Pediatric Vasculitis Damage Index (pVDI) score evaluated disease activity and damage. Descriptive statistics summarized patient characteristics. RTX and CYC comparisons used logistic regression for primary outcomes of postinduction remission (PVAS = 0) or low disease activity (PVAS ≤ 2). Hospital admission for adverse events and pVDI scores were compared using logistic regression and ordinal regression, respectively.

Results

Among 104 patients, 43% received RTX, 46% CYC, 11% both. Treatment groups did not significantly differ for diagnosis PVAS and onset age. There was no difference in remission among the groups (63% overall; odds ratio [OR] 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.45–2.52). Hospitalizations occurred in 22% of patients receiving RTX versus 10% patients receiving CYC (OR 2.27, 95% CI 0.73–7.05). The median 12‐month pVDI score was 1 in both groups (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.43–2.22).

Conclusion

This is the first study comparing CYC and RTX for induction in pediatric GPA and MPA. No significant differences were shown in rates of remission, severe adverse events, or organ damage. Limitations included lack of standardized treatment regimens, retrospectivity, and lack of longitudinal adverse drug‐related event data.
Bifunctional Ion Rectification Layer Separators Toward Superior Reversible Dendrite‐Free Zinc Metal Anodes
Authors: Yao Jia , Li Jingying , Chen Chi , Ge Luyang , Wan Qian , Yang Yin , Gan Yi , Lv Lin , Tao Li , Wang Hanbin , Zhang Jun , Wan Houzhao , Wang Hao
Published: October 2024

The slow transport dynamics and poor dendritic growth significantly hinder the performance of zinc metal batteries. Here, a unique difunctional ion rectification strategy is developed using vacuum evaporation technology to design a coated separator for efficient ion transport. The highly conductive Cu‐coated separator acts as an ion redistributor, ensuring homogenized electric field distribution. The excellent znophilicity of the copper coating acts as an ion accelerator, promoting ion transport and facilitating face‐to‐face zinc deposition on the separator. Consequently, this synergy enables stable battery operation at high current densities (cumulative capacity up to 10 800 mAh cm−2 at 8 mA cm−2) and high depth of discharge (over 200 h at 94% DOD). The Cu‐coated separator exhibits a reversible plating/stripping life of over 2400 h with an average coulombic efficiency of 99.88%. Notably, the Cu‐coated separator significantly enhances the rate performance and cycle capacity of Zn||V6O13 and Zn||MnO2 full cells. This functional separator with a difunctional ion rectification strategy presents a promising solution to the challenge of zinc metal anodes.
Molecule‐level Design to Form Pocket Structures for Improving Amine Efficiency in CO2 Capture
Authors: Shi Haitao , Cao Rong , Zhang Haijun , Yang Jiajia , Fu Yanlin , Chen Jiping
Published: October 2024

Solid amine adsorbents represent a promising class of CO2 sorbents, but their amine efficiency is limited by the inaccessibility of peripheral amines. The surface of mesocellular silica foam (MCF) is functionalized with the mixture of short‐chain 3‐Glycidyloxypropyl) triethoxysilane (GPTES) and long‐chain Octadecyltrimethoxysilane (OTMS), forming pocket structures on the support surface, thereby exposing more amine sites and enhancing the amine efficiency of polyethylenimine (PEI). The resulting adsorbent demonstrates a high CO2 adsorption capacity (5.02 mmol g−1 at 50 °C, 10 vol.% CO2, and 50%RH), high amine efficiency (0.43 at the dry condition), outstanding cyclic stability (0.5% performance decline per cycle under the conditions of dry CO2 regeneration), and fast adsorption kinetics (15 min for adsorption saturation at 50 °C). First‐principles calculations and CO2 temperature‐programmed desorption (TPD) experiments demonstrate that the introduction of GPTES and OTMS is beneficial to decreasing adsorption energy and forming paired carbamic acid states and ammonium carbamate states.
CsSnBr3 and Cs3Bi2Br9: Structural, Optical Characteristics, and Application in a Schottky Barrier Diode
Authors: Akinbami Olusola , Majola Thelma , Ngubeni Grace Nomthandazo , Mubiayi Kalenga Pierre , Moloto Nosipho
Published: October 2024

The search for alternatives to Pb‐based perovskites, due to concerns about stability and toxicity, has led to the exploration of Pb‐free options. Tin (Sn) and bismuth (Bi) are promising candidates, given their similar ionic radii to Pb and the isoelectronic nature of Pb2+ and Bi3+, which suggest comparable chemical properties. Among these, CsSnBr3 and Cs3Bi2Br9 are relatively underexplored but offer lower toxicity and enhanced stability while demonstrating optoelectronic properties suitable for various applications. In this study, CsSnBr3 and Cs3Bi2Br9 nanocrystals are synthesized using a colloidal method and integrated into Schottky diodes. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis of the surface chemistry confirms improved thermal and phase stability compared to Pb‐based perovskites. Schottky diode parameters, including ideality factor, barrier height, and series resistance are assessed using conventional thermionic emission, modified Cheung's, and Norde's models. The Cs3Bi2Br9‐based Schottky diode exhibits superior electrical performance with the lowest series resistance and optimal barrier height. Electrical impedance spectroscopy results indicated that CsSnBr3 has higher resistances and lower capacitances than Cs3Bi2Br9, reflecting lower charge carrier mobility and more defects, although the R1C1 regions in both materials demonstrated faster charge dynamics, making them ideal for high‐speed applications.
CircFndc3b Mediates Exercise‐Induced Neuroprotection by Mitigating Microglial/Macrophage Pyroptosis via the ENO1/KLF2 Axis in Stroke Mice
Authors: Zhao Yun , He Xiaofei , Yang Xiaofeng , Hong Zhongqiu , Xu Yin , Xu Jinghui , Zheng Haiqing , Zhang Liying , Zuo Zejie , Hu Xiquan
Published: October 2024

Circular RNA (circRNA) plays a pivotal role in regulating neurological damage post‐ischemic stroke. Previous researches demonstrated that exercise mitigates neurological dysfunction after ischemic stroke, yet the specific contributions of circRNAs to exercise‐induced neuroprotection remain unclear. This study reveals that mmu_circ_0001113 (circFndc3b) is markedly downregulated in the penumbral cortex of a mouse model subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). However, exercise increased circFndc3b expression in microglia/macrophages, alleviating pyroptosis, reducing infarct volume, and enhancing neurological recovery in MCAO mice. Mechanistically, circFndc3b interacted with Enolase 1 (ENO1), facilitating ENO1's binding to the 3' Untranslated Region (3'UTR) of Krüppel‐like Factor 2 (Klf2) mRNA, thereby stabilizing Klf2 mRNA and increasing its protein expression, which suppressed NOD‐like Receptor Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome‐mediated microglial/macrophage pyroptosis. Additionally, circFndc3b enhanced ENO1's interaction with the 3′UTR of Fused in Sarcoma (FUS) mRNA, leading to increased FUS protein levels and promoting circFndc3b cyclization. These results suggest that circFndc3b mediates exercise‐induced anti‐pyroptotic effects via the ENO1/Klf2 axis, and a circFndc3b/ENO1/FUS positive feedback loop may potentiate exercise's neuroprotective effects. This study unveils a novel mechanism underlying exercise‐induced neuroprotection in ischemic stroke and positions circFndc3b as a promising therapeutic target for stroke management, mimicking the beneficial effects of exercise.
A Cardiac‐Targeting and Anchoring Bimetallic Cluster Nanozyme Alleviates Chemotherapy‐Induced Cardiac Ferroptosis and PANoptosis
Authors: Xing Junyue , Ma Xiaohan , Yu Yanan , Xiao Yangfan , Chen Lu , Yuan Weining , Wang Yingying , Liu Keyu , Guo Zhiping , Tang Hao , Fan Kelong , Jiang Wei
Published: October 2024

Doxorubicin (DOX), a potent antineoplastic agent, is commonly associated with cardiotoxicity, necessitating the development of strategies to reduce its adverse effects on cardiac function. Previous research has demonstrated a strong correlation between DOX‐induced cardiotoxicity and the activation of oxidative stress pathways. This work introduces a novel antioxidant therapeutic approach, utilizing libraries of tannic acid and N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine‐protected bimetallic cluster nanozymes. Through extensive screening for antioxidative enzyme‐like activity, an optimal bimetallic nanozyme (AuRu) is identified that possess remarkable antioxidant characteristics, mimicking catalase‐like enzymes. Theoretical calculations reveal the surface interactions of the prepared nanozymes that simulate the hydrogen peroxide decomposition process, showing that these bimetallic nanozymes readily undergo OH⁻ adsorption and O₂ desorption. To enhance cardiac targeting, the atrial natriuretic peptide is conjugated to the AuRu nanozyme. These cardiac‐targeted bimetallic cluster nanozymes, with their anchoring capability, effectively reduce DOX‐induced cardiomyocyte ferroptosis and PANoptosis without compromising tumor treatment efficacy. Thus, the therapeutic approach demonstrates significant reductions in chemotherapy‐induced cardiac cell death and improvements in cardiac function, accompanied by exceptional in vivo biocompatibility and stability. This study presents a promising avenue for preventing chemotherapy‐induced cardiotoxicity, offering potential clinical benefits for cancer patients.