bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproducibility of an Analysis Software for Qualitative Observation of Elschnig Pearls
Authors: Hirnschall Nino , Neumayer Thomas , Buehl Wolf , Findl Oliver
Published: August 2010

Background and Objective:

To determine the reproducibility of a semi-objective analysis software for the morphological analysis of single Elschnig pearls from retroillumination images of posterior capsule opacification.

Patients and Methods:

In this prospective study, images of eyes with varying degrees of regeneratory posterior capsule opacification and the presence of Elschnig pearls were taken. The size and morphology of single Elschnig pearls was evaluated from consecutive images using an analysis method called PearlTracer using three different modes: snake selection, where a few points detected the pearl border automatically; diameter circle selection, a circle function; and polygon selection, where several points were connected by straight lines. The interobserver and intraobserver reproducibility and the limits of the different modes concerning contrast were assessed.

Results:

One hundred fifty-eight retroillumination images of 55 eyes of 50 patients were included with a total of 857 pearls being analyzed. A high interobserver reproducibility was found, as well as a high intraobserver reproducibility. Furthermore, a significant difference in the pearl size and the pearl morphology between the three analysis features of the software was found.

Conclusion:

For the observation of single Elschnig pearls and their morphological changes, the semi-objective PearlTracer analysis software was found to be a highly reproducible and useful method.
Clinical Course of Choroidal Neovascularization Secondary to Angioid Streaks Treated with Intravitreal Bevacizumab
Authors: Teixeira Anderson , Mattos Tessa , Velletri Roberta , Teixeira Rafael , Freire Juliana , Moares Nilva , Bonomo Pedro Paulo
Published: August 2010

Background and Objective:

To evaluate visual acuity and anatomical outcomes of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) associated with angioid streaks after treatment with intravitreal bevacizumab injections.

Patients and Methods:

Best-corrected visual acuity, optical coherence tomography measurements (OCT), fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography, and ophthalmoscope examination at baseline and at each follow-up visit were performed. Five patients with CNV associated with angioid streaks were treated with injections of intravitreal bevacizumab (1.25 mg/0.05 mL). Re-treatment was recommended with symptomatic lesions, new subretinal hemorrhages, leakage on fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography, and/or fluid documented by OCT. Follow-up ranged between 18 and 32 months.

Results:

All eyes showed an improvement of visual acuity and were treated with at least four injections of intravitreal bevacizumab. Reduction of the leakage shown by fluorescein angiography and OCT was noted in all patients.

Conclusion:

Intravitreal bevacizumab appears to be effective in stabilizing and recovering visual acuity in eyes with CNV associated with angioid streaks. Patients with early symptoms might benefit more.
Resident Physician Operative Times During Cataract Surgery
Authors: Wiggins Michael N. , Warner David B.
Published: August 2010

Background and Objective:

To determine resident physician operative times surrounding their 45th, 86th, and 121st cataract surgery.

Patients and Methods:

Retrospective chart review of 375 surgical records of 25 ophthalmology residents. Groups were compared with each other and to a published surgeon.

Results:

The mean operative times of surgeries 43 to 47, 84 to 88, and 119 to 123 were 39.9, 30.0, and 27.2 minutes, respectively. Surgical time decreased 25% from the 45th to the 86th case (
P
= .0002) and 9% from the 86th to the 121st case (
P
= .2049). Compared with a published surgeon’s time of 26.8 minutes, residents’ times were significantly longer around their 45th (
P
= .0001) and 86th surgery (
P
= .0012), but nearly identical around the 121st surgery (
P
= .7022).

Conclusion:

Significant decreases in operative time occurred between the 45th and 86th case. Smaller decreases occurred after the 86th case. Residents’ operative times approach that of a published ophthalmologist around the 121st case.
Lay Health Mentors in Community-Based Older Adult Disability Prevention Programs
Authors: Dossa Almas , Capitman John A.
Published: August 2010

In this study, we explored provider perspectives on the benefits of and implementation challenges in using lay health mentor peers in a community-based replication of an efficacious 12-month older adult disability prevention program. In addition, we describe the association of the mentor program with site features and program completion. We conducted semi-structured telephone interviews with nurses, social workers, and site managers and obtained primary data on site features and secondary data on program completion. Major themes included the importance of the health mentor program and implementation challenges. Sites with mentor programs were more likely to have older adults complete the program compared with sites without mentor programs. Rural, small, and less diverse sites were more likely to have health mentor programs than urban, large, and more diverse sites. Implications include a need to fund more lay health mentor programs, obtain adequate staffing including minority staff for health mentor support, and implement strategies to improve program efficiency.
Older Inmates’ Pursuit of Good Health: A Focus Group Study
Authors: Loeb Susan J. , Steffensmeier Darrell
Published: August 2010

Many intersecting factors, including the graying of the broader society, a paradigm shift away from rehabilitation, fewer opportunities for parole, and retrospective prosecutions, contribute to an exponential increase in number of older inmates. Elderly prisoners are likely to live in small, tight quarters with other inmates; have chronic health conditions; and encounter multiple barriers to health promotion. Using focus groups, data on perceived challenges to health promotion and self-care strategies were collected from 42 male inmates 50 and older. Cost issues, prison personnel and policies, food concerns, fellow inmates, and personal barriers challenged older inmates’ abilities to maintain their health in prison. However, they did engage in self-care strategies, including accessing resources and support, staying positive, managing diet and weight, engaging in physical activity, and protecting self. A key motivator for pursuing good health was to be respected and perceived as healthy and strong by fellow inmates. Development and testing of programs to enhance inmates’ self-management of chronic conditions and to facilitate health promotion are in order.
Late B Cell Depletion with a Human Anti-Human CD20 IgG1κ Monoclonal Antibody Halts the Development of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in Marmosets
Authors: Kap Yolanda S. , van Driel Nikki , Blezer Erwin , Parren Paul W. H. I. , Bleeker Wim K. , Laman Jon D. , Craigen Jenny L. , ’t Hart Bert A.
Published: August 2010

Depletion of CD20+ B cells has been related to reduced clinical activity in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis. The underlying mechanism is not understood, because serum IgG levels were unaltered by the treatment. We report the effect of late B cell depletion on cellular and humoral immune mechanisms in a preclinical multiple sclerosis model (i.e., experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis [EAE] in the common marmoset). We used a novel human anti-human CD20 IgG1κ mAb (HuMab 7D8) that cross-reacts with marmoset CD20. EAE was induced in 14 marmosets by immunization with recombinant human myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) in CFA. After 21 d, B cells were depleted in seven monkeys by HuMab 7D8, and seven control monkeys received PBS. The Ab induced profound and long-lasting B cell depletion from PBMCs and lymphoid organs throughout the observation period of 106 d. Whereas all of the control monkeys developed clinically evident EAE, overt neurologic deficits were reduced substantially in three HuMab 7D8-treated monkeys, and four HuMab 7D8-treated monkeys remained completely asymptomatic. The effect of HuMab 7D8 was confirmed on magnetic resonance images, detecting only small lesions in HuMab 7D8-treated monkeys. The infusion of HuMab 7D8 arrested the progressive increase of anti-MOG IgG Abs. Although CD3+ T cell numbers in lymphoid organs were increased, their proliferation and cytokine production were impaired significantly. Most notable were the substantially reduced mRNA levels of IL-7 and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-17A, IFN-γ, and TNF-α). In conclusion, B cell depletion prevents the development of clinical and pathological signs of EAE, which is associated with impaired activation of MOG-reactive T cells in lymphoid organs.
Unique Requirements for Reactivation of Virus-Specific Memory B Lymphocytes
Authors: Weisel Florian J. , Appelt Uwe K. , Schneider Andrea M. , Horlitz Jasmin U. , van Rooijen Nico , Korner Heinrich , Mach Michael , Winkler Thomas H.
Published: August 2010

Memory B cells (MBCs) are rapidly activated upon Ag re-exposure in vivo, but the precise requirements for this process are still elusive. To address these requirements, T cell-independent reactivation of MBCs against virus-like particles was analyzed. As few as 25 MBCs are sufficient for a measurable Ab response after adoptive transfer. We found that MBCs were reactivated upon antigenic challenge to normal levels after depletion of macrophages, CD11c+ dendritic cells, and matured follicular dendritic cells. Furthermore, MBC responses were possible in TNF/lymphotoxin α double-deficient mice after partial normalization of lymphoid architecture by means of long-term reconstitution with wild-type bone marrow. Activation did not occur when chimeric mice, which still lack all lymph nodes and Peyer’s patches, were splenectomized prior to MBC transfer. Together with our finding that MBC responses are weak when Ag was administered within minutes after adoptive MBC transfer, these results strongly suggest that MBCs have to occupy specific niches within secondary lymphoid tissue to become fully Ag-responsive. We provide clear evidence that MBCs are not preferentially resident within the splenic marginal zones and show that impaired homing to lymphoid follicles resulted in significantly diminished activation, suggesting that reactivation of MBCs occurred inside lymphoid follicles. Furthermore, comparison of virus-specific MBC T cell-independent reactivation versus primary T cell-independent type II B cell activation revealed unique requirements of MBC activation.
Lyapunov Theorems for the Asymptotic Behavior of Evolution Families on the Half-Line
Authors: Preda Ciprian , Preda Petre
Published: August 2010

Two theorems regarding the asymptotic behavior of evolution families are established in terms of the solutions of a certain Lyapunov operator equation.
Diurnal variation of midlatitudinal NO3 column abundance over Table Mountain Facility, California
Authors: Chen C. M. , Cageao R. P. , Lawrence L. , Stutz J. , Salawitch R. J. , Jourdain L. , Li Q. B. , Sander S. P.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The column abundance of NO3 was measured over Table Mountain Facility, CA (34.4° N, 117.7° W) from May 2003 through September 2004, using lunar occultation near full moon with a grating spectrometer. The NO3 column retrieval was performed with the differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) technique using both the 623 and 662 nm NO3 absorption bands. Other spectral features such as Fraunhofer lines and absorption from water vapor and oxygen were removed using solar spectra obtained at different airmass factors. We observed a seasonal variation, with nocturnally averaged NO3 columns between 5–7×1013 molec cm−2 during October through March, and 5–22×1013 molec cm−2 during April through September. A subset of the data, with diurnal variability vastly different from the temporal profile obtained from one-dimensional stratospheric model calculations, clearly has boundary layer contributions; this was confirmed by simultaneous long-path DOAS measurements. However, even the NO3 columns that did follow the modeled time evolution were often much larger than modeled stratospheric partial columns constrained by realistic temperatures and ozone concentrations. This discrepancy is attributed to substantial tropospheric NO3 in the free troposphere, which may have the same time dependence as stratospheric NO3.
An analysis of the Collection 5 MODIS over-ocean aerosol optical depth product for its implication in aerosol assimilation
Authors: Shi Y. , Zhang J. , Reid J. S. , Holben B. , Hyer E. J. , Curtis C.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. As an update to our previous use of the Collection 4 Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) over-water aerosol optical depth (AOD, symbol as τ data, we examined ten years of Terra and eight years of Aqua data Collection 5 data for its potential usage in aerosol data assimilation. Uncertainties in the over-water MODIS AOD were studied as functions of observing conditions, such as surface characteristics, aerosol optical properties, and cloud artifacts. Empirical corrections and quality assurance procedures were developed and compared to Collection 4 data. After applying quality assurance and empirical correction procedures, the Root-Mean-Square-Error (RMSE) in the MODIS Terra and Aqua AOD are reduced by 30% and 10–20%, respectively. Ten years of Terra and eight years of Aqua quality-assured level 3 MODIS over-water aerosol products were produced. The newly developed MODIS over-water aerosol products will be used in operational aerosol data assimilation and aerosol climatology studies, and will also be useful to other researchers who are using the MODIS satellite products in their projects.
How do fits of simulated magnetic clouds correspond to their real shapes in 3-D?
Authors: Vandas M. , Romashets E. , Geranios A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Magnetic clouds are important objects for space weather forecasters due to their impact on the Earth's magnetosphere and their consequences during geomagnetic storms. Being considered as cylindrical or toroidal flux ropes, their size, velocity, magnetic field strength, and axis orientation determine its impact on Earth. Above mentioned parameters are usually extracted from model fits using measurements from one-spacecraft crossings of these structures. In order to relate solar events with these spacecraft observations, the parameters are then compared to situation at the Sun around a most probable source region with a goal to correlate them with near-Sun observed quantities for prediction purposes. In the past we performed three-dimensional simulations of magnetic cloud propagation in the inner heliosphere. Simulated spacecraft measurements are fitted by models of magnetic clouds and resulting parameters are compared with real shapes of magnetic clouds which can be directly obtained from our simulations. The comparison shows that cloud parameters are determined quite reliably for spacecraft crossings near the cloud axis.
Isotope hydrological studies on the perennial ice deposit of Saarhalle, Mammuthöhle, Dachstein Mts, Austria
Authors: Kern Z. , Fórizs I. , Molnár M. , Nagy B. , Pavuza R.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. A 5.28 m long ice core was extracted from the major cave ice block of the Mammuthöhle cave system. Tritium concentration in eight samples from the upper 1.2 m of the core was measured. Electrical conductivity measurements were achieved on molten water samples and stable oxygen and hydrogen isotopic compositions were also analysed. The upper ~1.2 m of ice has been deposited from precipitation fallen before the 1960s (based on tritium < 8.5 TU). The Saarhalle ice block is build from atmospheric precipitation and the water perfectly preserved the isotopic composition; however the mean 18O/16O ratio of the ice is less depleted compared to the long-term (1973–1983) 18O/16O ratio of precipitation at Feuerkogel the nearest (~32 km) reference station situated in the same elevation like Mammuthöhle cave. Characteristic fluctuation was observed in the conductivity along the studied cave ice profile. The conductivity oscillations seem to mirror the changing partition of karstic water and surface meltwater in the water supply of the ice accumulation. The ice layers with low conductivity seem to archive past events when more meltwater-like water have been drained and frozen onto the ice block.
Systemic Anticancer Therapy and Overall Survival in Patients With Very Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Canavan Maureen E. , Wang Xiaoliang , Ascha Mustafa S. , Miksad Rebecca A. , Showalter Timothy N. , Calip Gregory S. , Gross Cary P. , Adelson Kerin B.
Published: May 2024

Importance

Two prominent organizations, the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the National Quality Forum (NQF), have developed a cancer quality metric aimed at reducing systemic anticancer therapy administration at the end of life. This metric, NQF 0210 (patients receiving chemotherapy in the last 14 days of life), has been critiqued for focusing only on care for decedents and not including the broader population of patients who may benefit from treatment.

Objective

To evaluate whether the overall population of patients with metastatic cancer receiving care at practices with higher rates of oncologic therapy for very advanced disease experience longer survival.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This nationwide population-based cohort study used Flatiron Health, a deidentified electronic health record database of patients diagnosed with metastatic or advanced disease, to identify adult patients (aged ≥18 years) with 1 of 6 common cancers (breast cancer, colorectal cancer, non–small cell lung cancer [NSCLC], pancreatic cancer, renal cell carcinoma, and urothelial cancer) treated at health care practices from 2015 to 2019. Practices were stratified into quintiles based on retrospectively measured rates of NQF 0210, and overall survival was compared by disease type among all patients treated in each practice quintile from time of metastatic diagnosis using multivariable Cox proportional hazard models with a Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Data were analyzed from July 2021 to July 2023.

Exposure

Practice-level NQF 0210 quintiles.

Main Outcome and Measure

Overall survival.

Results

Of 78 446 patients (mean [SD] age, 67.3 [11.1] years; 52.2% female) across 144 practices, the most common cancer types were NSCLC (34 201 patients [43.6%]) and colorectal cancer (15 804 patients [20.1%]). Practice-level NQF 0210 rates varied from 10.9% (quintile 1) to 32.3% (quintile 5) for NSCLC and 6.8% (quintile 1) to 28.4% (quintile 5) for colorectal cancer. No statistically significant differences in survival were observed between patients treated at the highest and the lowest NQF 0210 quintiles. Compared with patients seen at practices in the lowest NQF 0210 quintiles, the hazard ratio for death among patients seen at the highest quintiles varied from 0.74 (95% CI, 0.55-0.99) for those with renal cell carcinoma to 1.41 (95% CI, 0.98-2.02) for those with urothelial cancer. These differences were not statistically significant after applying the Bonferroni-adjusted critical P = .008.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, patients with metastatic or advanced cancer treated at practices with higher NQF 0210 rates did not have improved survival. Future efforts should focus on helping oncologists identify when additional therapy is futile, developing goals of care communication skills, and aligning payment incentives with improved end-of-life care.
Fluorescein Angiography of Floating Retinal Veins
Authors: Zhang Wenting , Peng Jie , Zhao Peiquan
Published: May 2024

This case report describes a diagnosis of floating retinal veins in a patient aged 4 years with a history of stage 2 familial exudative vitreoretinopathy.
Nationwide Prevalence of Inherited Retinal Diseases in the Israeli Population
Authors: Shalom Sapir , Ben-Yosef Tamar , Sher Ifat , Zag Amir , Rotenstreich Ygal , Poleg Tomer , Birk Ohad S. , Gradstein Libe , Ehrenberg Miriam , Deitch Iris , Mezer Eedy , Hecht Idan , Pras Eran , Ramon Dan , Khateb Samer , Zur Dinah , Newman Hadas , Kharouba Rawan , Goldenberg-Cohen Nitza , Leibu Rina , Soudry Shiri , Perlman Ido , Banin Eyal , Sharon Dror
Published: May 2024

Importance

Data regarding the prevalence of various inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are limited and vary across populations; moreover, nationwide prevalence studies may be limited to a specific IRD phenotype, potentially leading to inaccurate prevalence estimations. Therefore, nationwide prevalence data are needed.

Objective

To determine the prevalence of 67 IRD phenotypes in the Israeli population.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study collected nationwide data regarding the number of individuals affected with IRD phenotypes assessed in 10 clinical and academic centers in Israel as part of the research activity of the Israeli inherited retinal disease consortium. Data were collected in May 2023 on 9396 individuals residing in Israel who were diagnosed by an ophthalmologist with an IRD using either electroretinography or retinal imaging where included. Individuals with retinal diseases known to have a nonmendelian basis or without a clear genetic basis and those who were reported as deceased at the time of data collection were excluded from this study.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Prevalence of 67 IRD phenotypes.

Results

Among the 9396 participants in our cohort, the most common IRD in Israel was retinitis pigmentosa with a disease prevalence of approximately 1:2400 individuals, followed by cone-rod dystrophy (approximately 1:14 000), Stargardt disease (approximately 1:16 000), Usher syndrome (approximately 1:16,000), and congenital stationary night blindness (approximately 1:18 000). The prevalence of all IRDs combined was 1:1043 individuals.

Conclusions and Relevance

The current study provides large prevalence dataset of 67 IRD phenotypes, some of which are extremely rare, with only a single identified case. This analysis highlights the potential importance of performing additional nationwide prevalence studies to potentially assist with determining the prevalence of IRDs worldwide.
KRT81 and HNF1A expression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: investigation of predictive and prognostic value of immunohistochemistry‐based subtyping
Authors: Rao Jia , Sinn Marianne , Pelzer Uwe , Riess Hanno , Oettle Helmut , Demir Ihsan E , Friess Helmut , Jäger Carsten , Steiger Katja , Muckenhuber Alexander
Published: May 2024

Even after decades of research, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a highly lethal disease and responses to conventional treatments remain mostly poor. Subclassification of PDAC into distinct biological subtypes has been proposed by various groups to further improve patient outcome and reduce unnecessary side effects. Recently, an immunohistochemistry (IHC)‐based subtyping method using cytokeratin‐81 (KRT81) and hepatocyte nuclear factor 1A (HNF1A) could recapitulate some of the previously established molecular subtyping methods, while providing significant prognostic and, to a limited degree, also predictive information. We refined the KRT81/HNF1A subtyping method to classify PDAC into three distinct biological subtypes. The prognostic value of the IHC‐based method was investigated in two primary resected cohorts, which include 269 and 286 patients, respectively. In the second cohort, we also assessed the predictive effect for response to erlotinib + gemcitabine. In both PDAC cohorts, the new HNF1A‐positive subtype was associated with the best survival, the KRT81‐positive subtype with the worst, and the double‐negative with an intermediate survival (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) in univariate and multivariate analyses. In the second cohort (CONKO‐005), the IHC‐based subtype was additionally found to have a potential predictive value for the erlotinib‐based treatment effect. The revised IHC‐based subtyping using KRT81 and HNF1A has prognostic significance for PDAC patients and may be of value in predicting treatment response to specific therapeutic agents.
Numerical and Experimental Evaluation of Structured Material for Use in Multiscale Topology Optimization
Authors: Vaverka Ondřej , Červinek Ondřej , Jaroš Jan , Koutný Daniel , Pantělejev Libor
Published: May 2024

Multiscale topology optimization is a powerful tool for engineers seeking a design with minimum weight and maximum stiffness, using a structured material in the form of a lattice structure. Furthermore, the current trend is to combine multiple lattice topologies in one component to achieve the best possible response to local loading conditions while minimizing weight. Therefore, herein, a numerical and experimental evaluation by compression tests in two directions is performed for six basic lattice topologies and two hypotheses are tested. The first hypothesis states that an additional weight saving of more than 30% can be achieved by a better choice of lattice topology. The second hypothesis is based on the manufacturing limitations of the laser powder bed fusion technology and the assumption that a favorable loading direction parallel to the building direction exists. The first hypothesis is only confirmed for loading in the direction parallel to the building direction and the second only for two lattice topologies. When both hypotheses are combined, the additional weight reduction of the multiscale topology optimization result is 44.5% according to the numerical results and 32.7% according to the experimental verification.
Observation of Grain Boundary Sliding in a Lamellar Ultrafine‐Grained Steel
Authors: Ahmels Laura , Bruns Sebastian , Durst Karsten , Bruder Enrico
Published: May 2024

The deformation behavior of a ferrite steel with ultrafine‐grained (UFG) lamellar microstructure generated by linear flow splitting is investigated and compared to a coarser cold‐worked reference state, using a set of complementary local deformation and microstructural characterizations methods. The pile‐up around indentations shows a pronounced anisotropy for the UFG lamellar microstructure indicating the relative motion of grains along their elongated boundaries. This observation is confirmed by stepwise compression testing of micropillars along the normal direction of lamellar‐shaped grains using a new faceted pillar geometry to image the initial microstructure and its evolution throughout the test. The surface roughening in pillar compression testing can be categorized into the formation of discrete steps at the surface along particular grain boundaries and a more gradual roughening that is attributed to intragranular dislocation slip. Potential mechanisms for the observed grain boundary sliding are discussed taking several factors such as the strain rate sensitivity and potential Coble creep rates into account. In conclusion, a grain boundary sliding process carried by grain boundary dislocations appears to be the most likely explanation for the observed behavior.
Macroscale Ultradurable Antiwear Achieved on Graphene‐Based Films via Multiphase Combination
Authors: Chen Li , Zhu Hang , Shi Dai , Lv Jianxiang , Zhang Xingkai , Bai Changning
Published: May 2024

Excellent antiwear performance, high bearing capacity, and long service life are essential prerequisites for the reliability and durability of Si‐based micro/nanodevice operation. To improve the antiwear property and prolong service life of Si‐based micro‐/nanodevices under high loads, graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets, graphene quantum dots (GQDs), and ionic liquid‐capped GQDs (IL‐GQDs) are used to create three kinds of multilayer films as solid lubricants, that is, single‐component (GO)5, (GO/GQDs)5, and (GO/IL‐GQDs)5 multilayer films. The results show that (GO/IL‐GQDs)5 composite multilayer possesses excellent wear resistance under a high load of 4 N with the wear rate of 4.9 × 10−7 mm3 N−1 m−1. The superior antiwear performance of (GO/IL‐GQDs)5 composite film is mainly due to the unique 3D structure composed of GO nanosheets alternating with IL‐GQDs. The rigid GO nanosheets play a role in load‐carrying capacity, and the IL‐GQDs could delay the time of structure transformation and reduce the loss rate of transfer film, thereby effectively extending the service life of (GO/IL‐GQDs)5 composite multilayer. Such multilayers are expected to be good solid lubricating films suitable for Si‐based micro‐/nanodevices.
Achieving Superior Strength–Ductility–Conductivity Combination in TiB2p/6201 Composites via Particle Rotation and Subgrain Refinement
Authors: Zhao Kai , Li Xinchen , Liu Xiangting , Shi Shuyan , Guo Enyu , Kang Huijun , Hao Zhigang , Li Jiehua , Zhang Yubo , Chen Zongning , Wang Tongmin
Published: May 2024

The key factor in the material design of overhead power transmission lines is to obtain a desired balance among strength, ductility, and electrical conductivity. Herein, TiB2 particulate‐reinforced aluminum matrix composites are prepared to find a way out of the intrinsic dilemma behind this balance by tailoring the subgrain refinement. The interaction in the form of inhomogeneous deformation induced by the flexibility discrepancy between the rigid particles and soft matrix is studied. On the one hand, the hexagonal plate‐like TiB2 particles rotate with the inhomogeneous deformation, forcing the biggest exposed plane ((0001) basal plane) parallel to the plastic flow direction, which is beneficial for the dislocation multiplication and hindrance of dislocation slipping. On the other hand, inhomogeneous deformation generates plentiful geometry necessary dislocations and divides the microstructure into two types: in the particle‐rich region ultrafine grains are formed and in the particle‐free region significant subgrains refinement is observed. The subgrains with 3 wt% TiB2 are refined from ≈897 to ≈248 nm. Thanks to these microstructural benefits, the composites achieve the following strength–ductility–conductivity combination: ultimate tensile strength is 370 MPa, elongation after fracture is 11.2%, and electrical conductivity is 51.79% IACS. Besides, the elastic modulus reaches 75.43 GPa.
Microstructural Evolution and Phase Transformation on Sn–Ag Solder Alloys under High‐Temperature Conditions Focusing on Ag3Sn Phase
Authors: Shanthi Bhavan Jayesh , Pazhani Ashwath , Amer Mohamed , Patel Nikunj , TG Unnikrishnan
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the microstructural and phase transformations in Sn–Ag solder alloys under high‐temperature conditions, utilizing X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analyses. Analytical techniques are employed pre‐ and postcontrolled thermal cycling from 30 to 180 °C, aimed at emulating solder reflow processes. The analysis at room temperature demonstrates pronounced crystalline peaks, suggesting a preferred orientation within the crystal structure. Upon heating, peak broadening suggests grain growth and the onset of recrystallization. SEM and energy‐dispersive spectroscopy analyses corroborate these findings, displaying a fine‐grained, well‐distributed microstructure with a homogenous composition of Sn and Ag elements. EBSD provides insights into the orientation and texture of grains, revealing a weak‐to‐moderate texture across the phases. Postexperiment data indicate a dominant presence of larger grains and significant variation in grain size, with an area‐weighted mean grain size of 68.47 μm and a standard deviation of 8.68 μm; this suggests significant grain growth and coarsening of the Ag3Sn intermetallic compounds. These structural evolutions have crucial implications for the mechanical properties and reliability of the solder alloy in electronic assemblies, underscoring the need for further exploration of lead‐free solder materials in the electronics industry.
Steering Piezocatalytic Therapy for Optimized Tumoricidal Effect
Authors: Zheng Huijuan , Lin Huimin , Tian Hao , Lin Kaili , Yang Fan , Zhang Xiaohua , Ge Shengfang , Fan Xianqun , Jia Renbing , Ruan Jing
Published: May 2024

Piezocatalysts, because of their mechano‐electrical conversion properties, are exploited for various medical applications, such as sterilization, tissue engineering, biosensing, and disease theranostics. In particular, based on the unique advantage of the piezoelectric effect, piezocatalytic therapy (PCT) has been developed as a novel and promising candidate for tumor therapy. To optimize the utilization of piezocatalysts in tumor therapy, a comprehensive understanding of the antitumor mechanism associated with these materials is imperative. Here, the piezocatalytic action principle is elucidated by investigating piezocatalysts, reactants, energy inputs, and products. Subsequently, the antitumor mechanisms of PCT have been extensively discussed and are recapitulative as follows: restraining cell proliferation, inducing cell programmed death, hindering tumor metastasis, inhibiting tumor angiogenesis, and enhancing antitumor immunity. Additionally, the optimized therapeutic outcomes of PCT‐centric synergistic cancer therapy are systematically described. Finally, the main challenges and future research directions of piezocatalysis applied in cancer therapy are envisioned. It is believed that PCT will serve as a new‐generation ingenious tool for cancer treatment.
Bridging OER Electrocatalysis and Tumor Therapy: Utilizing Piezoelectric‐Hole‐Induced OER Electrocatalysis for Direct Oxygen Generation to Address Hypoxia
Authors: Li Shuyao , Yang Meiqi , Wang Yan , Tian Boshi , Wu Linzhi , Yang Dan , Gai Shili , Yang Piaoping
Published: May 2024

In addressing the challenge of hypoxia within the tumor microenvironment (TME), a significant obstacle to effective cancer therapy, this research introduces a pioneering nanozyme engineered to utilize water and oxygen as reactants. Utilizing ultrasonic piezoelectricity, this nanozyme converts these substrates into oxygen (O2) and reactive oxygen species, thereby amplifying oxidative stress without relying on endogenous H2O2. This approach involves the strategic engineering of porous ZnSnOv:Mn nanosheets (named MZSO NSs), which are distinguished by oxygen‐rich vacancies and enhanced piezoelectric properties. This breakthrough represents the initial attempt to merge catalytic activities akin to catalase (CAT) with the electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER), confirmed through both enzymatic reactions and electrochemical voltammetric analysis. The predominant mechanism of ultrasound‐augmented oxygen generation in MZSO is identified as piezoelectric hole‐induced OER. Supporting theoretical analyses clarify the synergistic impact of oxygen vacancies and Mn doping on the dynamics of carriers and the OER process, leading to a notable increase in catalytic efficiency. These findings highlight the potential of piezoelectric‐enhanced OER electrocatalysts to alleviate hypoxia in the TME, providing novel insights into the development of piezoelectric acoustic sensitizers for the treatment of cancer.
Emerging Chemodynamic Nanotherapeutics for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Sun Dongqi , Sun Xinxin , Zhang Xuan , Wu Jiaping , Shi Xianbao , Sun Jin , Luo Cong , He Zhonggui , Zhang Shenwu
Published: May 2024

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) has emerged as a transformative paradigm in the realm of reactive oxygen species ‐mediated cancer therapies, exhibiting its potential as a sophisticated strategy for precise and effective tumor treatment. CDT primarily relies on metal ions and hydrogen peroxide to initiate Fenton or Fenton‐like reactions, generating cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals. Its notable advantages in cancer treatment are demonstrated, including tumor specificity, autonomy from external triggers, and a favorable side‐effect profile. Recent advancements in nanomedicine are devoted to enhancing CDT, promising a comprehensive optimization of CDT efficacy. This review systematically elucidates cutting‐edge achievements in chemodynamic nanotherapeutics, exploring strategies for enhanced Fenton or Fenton‐like reactions, improved tumor microenvironment modulation, and precise regulation in energy metabolism. Moreover, a detailed analysis of diverse CDT‐mediated combination therapies is provided. Finally, the review concludes with a comprehensive discussion of the prospects and intrinsic challenges to the application of chemodynamic nanotherapeutics in the domain of cancer treatment.
Planar Chlorination Engineering: A Strategy of Completely Breaking the Geometric Symmetry of Fe‐N4 Site for Boosting Oxygen Electroreduction
Authors: Wei Shengjie , Yang Rongyan , Wang Ziyi , Zhang Jijie , Bu Xian‐He
Published: May 2024

Introducing asymmetric elements and breaking the geometric symmetry of traditional metal‐N4 site for boosting oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) are meaningful and challenging. Herein, the planar chlorination engineering of Fe‐N4 site is first proposed for remarkably improving the ORR activity. The Fe‐N4/CNCl catalyst with broken symmetry exhibits a half‐wave potential (E1/2) of 0.917 V versus RHE, 49 and 72 mV higher than those of traditional Fe‐N4/CN and commercial 20 wt% Pt/C catalysts. The Fe‐N4/CNCl catalyst also has excellent stability for 25 000 cycles and good methanol tolerance ability. For Zn‐air battery test, the Fe‐N4/CNCl catalyst has the maximum power density of 228 mW cm−2 and outstanding stability during 150 h charge–discharge test, as the promising substitute of Pt‐based catalysts in energy storage and conversion devices. The density functional theory calculation demonstrates that the adjacent C─Cl bond effectively breaks the symmetry of Fe‐N4 site, downward shifts the d‐band center of Fe, facilitates the reduction and release of OH*, and remarkably lowers the energy barrier of rate‐determining step. This work reveals the enormous potential of planar chlorination engineering for boosting the ORR activity of traditional metal‐N4 site by thoroughly breaking their geometric symmetry.
Mechanical Integrity and Reinforcement Efficiency of Graphene Grown on Liquid Copper by Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Sfougkaris Ilias , Tsakonas Christos , Manikas Anastasios C. , Pastore Carbone Maria Giovanna , Pavlou Christos , Groot Irene M. N. , Saedi Mehdi , van Baarle Gertjan J. C. , de Voogd Marc , Rein Valentina , Jankowski Maciej , Konovalov Oleg V. , Renaud Gilles , Galiotis Costas
Published: May 2024

Graphene is a perfect 2D crystal of covalently bonded carbon atoms and constitutes the building block for all graphitic structures. Its superior properties make it an attractive material for a variety of technological applications. However, mass production does not meet the initial expectations. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) is currently the only available method for large‐scale automated production, but the produced graphene sheets suffer from structural and morphological defects that degrade considerably the mechanical and other physical properties of synthesized graphene. Recently, the use of liquid metal catalysts (LMCat) has been proposed as an alternative platform for facile and high‐quality synthesis of single‐crystal graphene. Herein, simultaneous Raman spectroscopy combined with mechanical testing is adopted confirming that the reinforcing efficiency of the LMCat graphene is greatly improved. In fact, the effective Young's modulus of LMCat graphene has been found ≈630 GPa, which is significantly higher than the graphene grown on solid Cu substrate due to differences in the morphology of Cu substrate. Overall, this work paves the way for the development of defect‐free graphene of quality comparable to exfoliated flakes, and this will have a major technological impact for many applications.
Femtosecond Laser Nanomachining of High‐Aspect‐Ratio Channels in Bulk Fused Silica
Authors: Barbato Pasquale , Osellame Roberto , Martínez Vázquez Rebeca
Published: May 2024

Thee‐dimensional nano‐structuring of bulk fused silica glass remains a challenging issue due to limitations of traditional fabrication methods. In the present work the fabrication of hollow mm‐length channels is demonstrated in bulk fused silica by femtosecond laser irradiation followed by chemical etching, achieving feature sizes of 300 nm. The tight focusing and threshold energy conditions allow to reveal unexplored fabrication regimes. The robustness and repeatability of the process are demonstrated through the fabrication of fused silica diffraction gratings, made of parallel hollow channels with variable pitches even in the sub‐wavelength regime.
Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotube‐Based Optical Nano/Biosensors for Biomedical Applications: Role in Bioimaging, Disease Diagnosis, and Biomarkers Detection
Authors: Acharya Rumi , Patil Tejal V. , Dutta Sayan Deb , Lee Jieun , Ganguly Keya , Kim Hojin , Randhawa Aayushi , Lim Ki‐Taek
Published: May 2024

The convergence of advanced nanotechnology with disease diagnosis has ushered in a transformative era in healthcare, empowering early and accurate detection of diseases and paving the way for timely interventions, improved treatment outcomes, and enhanced patient well‐being. The development of novel materials is frequently the impetus behind significant advancements in sensor technology. Among them, single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTSs) have emerged as promising nanomaterials for developing biosensors. Their unique optical, electrical, and biocompatibility properties make them promising candidates for enhancing the sensitivity and real‐time monitoring capabilities of biosensors, as well as for enabling various bioimaging techniques. Recent studies have demonstrated the utility of SWCNTS‐based biosensors in the real‐time monitoring of biological analytes, such as nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), with potential implications for disease understanding and therapeutic response assessment. Moreover, SWCNTSs have shown promise in bioimaging applications, including fluorescence, Raman spectroscopy, and photoluminescence imaging of biological samples. This article delves into the core principles, design strategies, and operational mechanisms that underpin SWCNTS‐bioimaging techniques‐based biosensors. It emphasizes on their unique properties and versatile functionalization of carbon nanotubes, laying the foundation for their integration into biosensor platforms and applications aimed at diagnosing a wide spectrum of diseases including infectious diseases, cancer, neurological disorders, and metabolic conditions.
Near‐Infrared Metalens Empowered Dual‐Mode High Resolution and Large FOV Microscope
Authors: Sun Chuang , Pi Hailong , Kiang Kian Shen , Yan Jize , Ou Jun‐Yu
Published: May 2024

The spiral phase contrast microscope can clearly distinguish the morphological information of the low contrast objects (i.e., biological samples) owing to the isotropic edge‐enhancement effect, while the bright field microscope can image the overall morphology of amplitude objects. However, the imaging resolution, magnification, and field of view of conventional spiral phase contrast microscopes based on 4f filtering configuration are limited by the system's complexity. Here, compact dual‐mode microscopes working at near‐infrared using the engineered metalens are reported, which can be tuned between the spiral phase contrast imaging and bright field imaging by polarization control. The metalens combine the high‐resolution objective lens and polarization‐controlled phase filter into a single‐layer nanofins array. Two infinity‐corrected microscope systems are demonstrated to achieve subwavelength resolution (0.7λ), large magnification (58X), and large field of view (600 × 800 µm). Unstained onion epidermal is imaged by the microscope to show the dual‐mode imaging ability for the biological sample. Finally, a singlet dual‐mode microscope system is demonstrated to show the edge‐detection application for industrial standards. These results can open new opportunities in applications of biological imaging, industrial machine vision, and semiconductor inspection.
Comparative Study of Multi‐objective Bayesian Optimization and NSGA‐III based Approaches for Injection Molding Process
Authors: Jung Jiyoung , Park Kundo , Lee Hugon , Cho Byungjin , Ryu Seunghwa
Published: May 2024

Injection molding is a prevalent method for producing plastic components, yet determining the ideal process parameters has predominantly relied on heuristic approaches. In this research, a data‐driven injection molding process optimization framework is developed to simultaneously minimize warpage, cycle time, and clamping force. Employing multi‐objective Bayesian optimization (MBO), the framework is applied to a fan blade model for verification. Incorporating those objectives enables the selection of an injection molding machine with the proper maximum clamping force within acceptable tolerance and production time. Furthermore, non‐moldable regimes are considered in design space, which allows less prior knowledge for setting design space. The optimized results are compared with those obtained using NSGA‐III, a well‐established genetic algorithm‐based optimization technique, as a benchmark. The optimization frameworks produce a Pareto front for the three‐dimensional outputs, revealing distinct trade‐off relationships between cycle time and warpage, as well as clamping force and warpage. The MBO framework demonstrates a superior Pareto front compared to NSGA‐III when utilizing a limited data set, underscoring its benefits in scenarios where costly simulations or experiments are necessary. These findings are anticipated to contribute to the optimization of manufacturing processes, ultimately enhancing productivity in real‐world industries.
Interrelations Between Surgical Outcome and Bone, Spring and Surgical Parameters in Scaphocephalic Skulls Treated with Spring‐Assisted Cranioplasty
Authors: Jacob Jenson , Bozkurt Selim
Published: May 2024

Sagittal synostosis is the most common type of craniosynostosis encompassing around 50% of craniosynostosis conditions. It can be corrected using spring‐assisted cranioplasty in which springs are compressed at both ends and inserted into the skull to expand it. Although it has advantages over open surgical techniques the surgical outcome may remain suboptimal due to the interaction of skull, spring and surgical parameters. Therefore, optimizing the surgical outcome in the correction of sagittal synostosis with spring‐assisted cranioplasty requires understanding the interaction of multiple factors. In this study, the interrelations between the surgical outcome and skull, spring and surgical parameters in sagittal synostosis treated with spring‐assisted cranioplasty are investigated. Two different statistical shape models are used to simulate skull correction with spring‐assisted cranioplasty. Forty samples for each parameter are generated randomly and spring‐assisted cranioplasty are simulated in finite element models using the combinations of the parameters. Linear regression analyzes revealed that the elastic modulus of the bones and bone thickness have significant effects on the post‐operative cranial index in sagittal synostosis after spring‐assisted cranioplasty. Therefore, quantifying the mechanical and geometric properties of a skull and planning the surgery accordingly may ultimately improve surgical outcomes in sagittal synostosis corrected with spring‐assisted cranioplasty.
Solid Lubricant in the Insect Leg Joints: Numerical Simulation of Tribological Properties
Authors: Filippov Alexander E. , Nadein Konstantin , Gorb Stanislav N. , Kovalev Alexander
Published: May 2024

The behavior of a semi‐solid lubricant from insect leg joints is considered and numerical modeling of its tribological properties is performed. It is shown that elementary lubricant fragments, represented by relatively short cylinders, tend to form clots of different sizes and shapes. The simulation results demonstrate that tribosystem with semi‐solid lubricant is capable of maintaining stability and dynamic equilibrium. The importance of maintaining the relative size of clots and their balanced entry and exit from the tribosystem at an optimal level to ensure stable balance and performance of the joint is emphasized. The function of grooves extending from lubricant‐conducting pores is confirmed to facilitate the distribution of lubricant fragments over smooth contact surfaces where the pores are absent.