bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elastin‐like protein hydrogels with controllable stress relaxation rate and stiffness modulate endothelial cell function
Authors: Shayan Mahdis , Huang Michelle S. , Navarro Renato , Chiang Gladys , Hu Caroline , Oropeza Beu P. , Johansson Patrik K. , Suhar Riley A. , Foster Abbygail A. , LeSavage Bauer L. , Zamani Maedeh , Enejder Annika , Roth Julien G. , Heilshorn Sarah C. , Huang Ngan F.
Published: March 2023

Mechanical cues from the extracellular matrix (ECM) regulate vascular endothelial cell (EC) morphology and function. Since naturally derived ECMs are viscoelastic, cells respond to viscoelastic matrices that exhibit stress relaxation, in which a cell‐applied force results in matrix remodeling. To decouple the effects of stress relaxation rate from substrate stiffness on EC behavior, we engineered elastin‐like protein (ELP) hydrogels in which dynamic covalent chemistry (DCC) was used to crosslink hydrazine‐modified ELP (ELP‐HYD) and aldehyde/benzaldehyde‐modified polyethylene glycol (PEG‐ALD/PEG‐BZA). The reversible DCC crosslinks in ELP‐PEG hydrogels create a matrix with independently tunable stiffness and stress relaxation rate. By formulating fast‐relaxing or slow‐relaxing hydrogels with a range of stiffness (500–3300 Pa), we examined the effect of these mechanical properties on EC spreading, proliferation, vascular sprouting, and vascularization. The results show that both stress relaxation rate and stiffness modulate endothelial spreading on two‐dimensional substrates, on which ECs exhibited greater cell spreading on fast‐relaxing hydrogels up through 3 days, compared with slow‐relaxing hydrogels at the same stiffness. In three‐dimensional hydrogels encapsulating ECs and fibroblasts in coculture, the fast‐relaxing, low‐stiffness hydrogels produced the widest vascular sprouts, a measure of vessel maturity. This finding was validated in a murine subcutaneous implantation model, in which the fast‐relaxing, low‐stiffness hydrogel produced significantly more vascularization compared with the slow‐relaxing, low‐stiffness hydrogel. Together, these results suggest that both stress relaxation rate and stiffness modulate endothelial behavior, and that the fast‐relaxing, low‐stiffness hydrogels supported the highest capillary density in vivo.
Pilot clinical trial of macimorelin to assess safety and efficacy in patients with cancer cachexia
Authors: Herodes Megan , Anderson Lindsey J. , Shober Samuel , Schur Ellen A. , Graf Solomon A. , Ammer Nicola , Salas Ramiro , Marcelli Marco , Garcia Jose M.
Published: March 2023

Background

Cancer cachexia is associated with reduced body weight, appetite and quality of life (QOL) with no approved treatments. Growth hormone secretagogues like macimorelin have potential to mitigate these effects.

Methods

This pilot study assessed the safety and efficacy of macimorelin for 1 week. Efficacy was defined a priori as 1‐week change in body weight (≥0.8 kg), plasma insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐1 (≥50 ng/mL) or QOL (≥15%). Secondary outcomes included food intake, appetite, functional performance, energy expenditure and safety laboratory parameters. Patients with cancer cachexia were randomized to 0.5 or 1.0 mg/kg macimorelin or placebo; outcomes were assessed non‐parametrically.

Results

Participants receiving at least one of either macimorelin dose were combined (N = 10; 100% male; median age = 65.50 ± 2.12) and compared with placebo (N = 5; 80% male; median age = 68.00 ± 6.19). Efficacy criteria achieved: body weight (macimorelin N = 2; placebo N = 0; P = 0.92); IGF‐1 (macimorelin N = 0; placebo N = 0); QOL by Anderson Symptom Assessment Scale (macimorelin N = 4; placebo N = 1; P = 1.00) or Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy‐Fatigue (FACIT‐F; macimorelin N = 3; placebo N = 0; P = 0.50). No related serious or non‐serious adverse events were reported. In macimorelin recipients, change in FACIT‐F was directly associated with change in body weight (r = 0.92, P = 0.001), IGF‐1 (r = 0.80, P = 0.01), and caloric intake (r = 0.83, P = 0.005), and inversely associated with change in energy expenditure (r = −0.67, P = 0.05).

Conclusions

Daily oral macimorelin for 1 week was safe and numerically improved body weight and QOL in patients with cancer cachexia compared with placebo. Longer term administration should be evaluated for mitigation of cancer‐induced reductions in body weight, appetite and QOL in larger studies.
Effect of genetic variations in drug transporters, metabolizing enzyme and regulatory genes on the development of HIV‐associated lipodystrophy
Authors: Shyamveer  , Khan Abdul Arif , Singh HariOm
Published: March 2023

Adipocytes play a crucial role in the metabolism of lipids and sugars. Their response varies depending on the circumstances or other factors influenced by physiological and metabolic stresses. People living with HIV (PLWH) experience different effects of HIV and highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on their body fat. Some patients respond well to antiretroviral therapy (ART), while others taking similar regimens do not. The genetic makeup of patients has been strongly linked to the variable responses to HAART among PLWH. The cause of HIV‐associated lipodystrophy syndrome (HALS) is not well understood, but it may be influenced by genetic variations in the host. The metabolism of lipid effectively modulates plasma triglyceride and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in PLWH. Genes related to drug metabolism and transport play an important role in the transportation and metabolism of ART drugs. Genetic variation in metabolizing enzyme genes of antiretroviral drugs, lipid transport and transcription factor‐related genes could interfere with fat storage and metabolism, contributing to the development of HALS. Hence we examined the impact of genes associated with transport, metabolism and various transcription factors in metabolic complications, and their impact on HALS. A study using databases such as PubMed, EMBASE and Google Scholar was conducted to understand the impact of these genes on metabolic complications and HALS. The present article discuss the changes in the expression and regulation of genes and their involvement in the lipid metabolism, lipolysis and lipogenesis pathways. Moreover, alteration of the drug transporter, metabolizing enzyme and various transcription factors can lead to HALS. Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in genes that play an essential role in drug metabolism and drug and lipid transportation may also contribute to individual differences in the emergence of metabolic and morphological alterations during HAART treatment.
Comparing endoscopic ultrasound‐guided antegrade treatment and balloon endoscopy‐assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the management of bile duct stones in patients with surgically altered anatomy: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Iwashita Takuji , Iwasa Yuhei , Senju Akihiko , Tezuka Ryuichi , Uemura Shinya , Okuno Mitsuru , Iwata Keisuke , Mukai Tsuyoshi , Yasuda Ichiro , Shimizu Masahito
Published: March 2023

Background

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided antegrade treatment (EUS‐AG) and balloon endoscopy‐assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (BE‐ERCP) have emerged as useful procedures for managing bile duct stones (BDS) in patients with surgically altered anatomy. However, the comparison between these two procedures has not been well studied.

The aim of our study was to compare the clinical outcomes of EUS‐AG and BE‐ERCP for managing BDS in patients with surgically altered anatomy.

Methods

The database was retrospectively evaluated at two tertiary care centers to identify patients with surgically altered anatomy who underwent either EUS‐AG or BE‐ERCP for BDS. Clinical outcomes were compared between the procedures. The success rate of each procedure was evaluated in three steps: endoscopic approach, biliary access, and stone extraction.

Results

Among the 119 identified patients, 23 had EUS‐AG, and 96 had BE‐ERCP. The overall technical success rates of EUS‐AG and BE‐ERCP were 65.2% (15/23) and 69.8% (67/96), respectively (P = .80). The comparison of each step between the procedures EUS‐AG versus BE‐ERCP was as follows: endoscopic approach, 100% (23/23) versus 88.5% (85/96) (P = .11); biliary access, 73.9% (17/23) versus 80.0% (68/85) (P = .57); stone extraction, 88.2% (15/17) versus 98.5% (67/68) (P = .10). The overall adverse event rate was 17.4% (4/23) versus 7.3% (7/96) (P = .22).

Conclusions

Both EUS‐AG and BE‐ERCP are effective and relatively safe procedures in the management of BDS in patients with surgically altered anatomy. The challenging steps of each procedure might be different, which could help decide which one to use to manage BDS in patients with surgically altered anatomy.
Precursory atmospheric circulations with Rossby wave trains leading to Eurasian extreme cold events
Authors: Zhuo Wenqin , Huang Fei , Ding Ruichang , Luo Jin
Published: March 2023

This work examines precursory atmospheric circulations with various wave trains contributing to extreme cold weather over central Eurasia in boreal winter from 1979 to 2019. By conducting extended empirical orthogonal function (EEOF) on the preceding propagation circulation fields 2 weeks before the onset of extreme cold event (ECE) cases, three types of ECEs with different disturbance origins are classified and analysed. Type 1 denotes the positive phase of EEOF mode 1, shows as negative phase of Arctic Oscillation‐like pattern. The outbreak of this type of ECE is affected by a wave train originating from Baffin Bay, where an anomalous anticylonic system persisted under a background of weakened westerlies over middle‐high latitudes. Type 2 is picked from positive phase of EEOF mode 2, manifests as a developing blocking system that forms over Scandinavia and shifts to the Barents area. It is found that the blocking system is mainly strengthened by the downstream dispersion process of wave packets that are generated at the northern exit area of the North Pacific westerly jet, where exist anomalous cyclonic zonal wind shear and precipitation. Type 3 is selected from the negative phase of EEOF mode 2, which has a similar origin to type 2 but with the North Pacific jet exit more southward. Then, the generated wave packets propagate to Europe along the northerly jet stream over the North Atlantic, which acts as a waveguide and extends the wave train to downstream. In a word, these three types of precursory atmospheric wave train patterns that bring extreme cold anomalies to Eurasia possess diverse disturbing sources and downstream development mechanisms, and the essential role of the westerly jet is further highlighted. The results, which are investigated based on a quasi‐biweekly time scale, may deepen our understanding of the atmospheric genesis of extreme weather and improve extended‐range weather forecast.
Evaluation of multi‐RCM ensembles for simulating spatiotemporal variability of Asian summer monsoon precipitation in the CORDEX‐East Asia Phase 2 domain
Authors: Seo Ga‐Yeong , Ahn Joong‐Bae , Cha Dong‐Hyun , Suh Myoung‐Seok , Min Seung‐Ki , Chang Eun‐Chul , Byun Young‐Hwa , Kim Jin‐Uk
Published: March 2023

Five regional climate models (RCMs)—CCLM, RegCM, HadGEM3‐RA, SNURCM and WRF—participating in the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment‐East Asia (CORDEX‐EA) Phase 2 project are evaluated for their ability to simulate spatiotemporal variability in Asian summer precipitation. For this purpose, two dynamical downscaling sets, experiments forced by ERA‐Interim reanalysis data (reproduction experiment) and historical data from three Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 5 (CMIP5) general circulation models (GCMs) (historical experiment) are analysed. The horizontal resolution of the downscaled results is 25 km, and the analysis period is from 1981 to 2005 (25 years). The RCMs show reasonable performance in simulating the spatial and temporal characteristics of summer precipitation in CORDEX‐EA Phase 2 domain. To assess spatiotemporal patterns in Asian precipitation, cyclostationary empirical orthogonal function (CSEOF) analysis is used. In the first mode representing seasonal variations, the model ensemble results of both the reproduction experiment (Rep_ENS) and the historical experiment (His_ENS) simulate the peak times, location of precipitation and progression of the monsoons in Asia reasonably. Their features are greatly influenced by the moisture flux, indicating that the relation between precipitation and 850 hPa moisture flux is depicted well by RCM ensembles. In the second mode, which represents intraseasonal variations, the Rep_ENS depicts the western North Pacific summer monsoon break (WNPSM break) phenomenon similar to the observation. Although the His_ENS simulates the WNPSM break later than the observation, it does present the intraseasonal variation in the East Asian summer monsoon region. Based on these results, the five RCM ensemble results show the ability to capture spatiotemporal characteristics of summer precipitation in CORDEX‐EA Phase 2 domain, as well as added value from dynamical downscaling.
Differences in Efficacy and Safety of Sirolimus and Sildenafil in Pediatric Lymphatic Malformations
Authors: Wang Jialu , Zhang Xuexi , Sun Nian , Liu Qiaoyin , Li Yanzhen , Peng Yun , Cheng Xiaoling , Zhang Jie , Liu Yuanhu , Feng Guoshuang , Liu Zhiyong , Ji Tingting , Li Xiaodan , Liu Yuwei , Wang Shengcai , Ni Xin
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To explore the differences in the efficacy and safety of oral sirolimus and sildenafil in the treatment of pediatric intractable lymphatic malformations (LMs).

Methods

From January 2014 to May 2022, we retrospectively enrolled children with intractable LMs treated with oral drugs (sirolimus or sildenafil) and divided the patients into sirolimus and sildenafil groups from Beijing Children's Hospital (BCH). Clinical features, treatment, and follow‐up data were collected and analyzed. The indicators were the ratio of reduction in lesion volume pre and posttreatment, the number of patients with improved clinical symptoms, and adverse reactions to the two drugs.

Results

Twenty‐four children in the sildenafil group and 31 children in the sirolimus group were included in the present study. The effective rate in the sildenafil group was 54.2% (13/24), with a median lesion volume reduction ratio of 0.32 (−0.23, 0.89) and clinical symptoms improved in 19 patients (79.2%). On the contrary, the effective rate in the sirolimus group was 93.5% (29/31), with a median lesion volume reduction ratio of 0.68 (0.34, 0.96), and clinical symptoms improved in 30 patients (96.8%). There were significant differences (p < 0.05) between the two groups. Regarding safety, four patients in the sildenafil group and 23 patients in the sirolimus group with mild adverse reactions were reported.

Conclusion

Both sildenafil and sirolimus can reduce the volume of LMs and improve clinical symptoms in partial patients with intractable LMs. Sirolimus is more effective than sildenafil and the adverse reactions associated with both drugs are mild and controllable.

Level of Evidence

III Laryngoscope, 133:3192–3199, 2023
Lubrication impact of ferrofluid on cylinder‐plate system: A comparative study using two flow models
Authors: Shah Rajesh C.
Published: March 2023

Squeeze‐film characteristics between a long cylinder and an infinite flat plate system are analysed. Ferrofluid (FF) lubricant controlled by transverse uniformly strong magnetic field is used for reducing wear and prolonging life of the system. The modified combined Reynolds equation is derived using two different FF flow models (Shliomis and Jenkins), and continuity equation. The expression for dimensionless film‐pressure, load‐carrying capacity and squeeze time are derived and calculated numerically for different control parameters. The results show significant improvement in the performance of the system when smaller value of minimum film thickness is chosen. Moreover, the phenomenon can be simulated by both the models equally with proper choice of the parameters.
Harmonic Gauss maps of submanifolds of arbitrary codimension of the Euclidean space and sphere and some applications
Authors: Bustos Daniel , Ripoll Jaime
Published: March 2023

It is proven results about existence and nonexistence of unit normal sections of submanifolds of the Euclidean space and sphere, which associated Gauss maps, are harmonic. Some applications to constant mean curvature hypersurfaces of the sphere and to isoparametric submanifolds are obtained too.
Coupling methods and exponential ergodicity for two‐factor affine processes
Authors: Bao Jianhai , Wang Jian
Published: March 2023

In this paper, by invoking the coupling approach, we establish exponential ergodicity under the L1‐Wasserstein distance for two‐factor affine processes. The method employed herein is universal in a certain sense so that it is applicable to general two‐factor affine processes, which allow that the first component solves a general Cox‐Ingersoll‐Ross (CIR) process, and that there are interactions in the second component, as well as that the Brownian noises are correlated; and even to some models beyond two‐factor processes.
Threshold dynamics of SAIRS epidemic model with semi‐Markov switching
Authors: Ottaviano Stefania
Published: March 2023

We study the threshold dynamics of a stochastic SAIRS‐type model with vaccination, where the role of asymptomatic and symptomatic infectious individuals is explicitly considered in the epidemic dynamics. In the model, the values of the disease transmission rate may switch between different levels under the effect of a semi‐Markov process. We provide sufficient conditions ensuring the almost surely epidemic extinction and persistence in time mean. In the case of disease persistence, we investigate the omega‐limit set of the system and give sufficient conditions for the existence and uniqueness of an invariant probability measure.
Consumption of Fish in Chronic Kidney Disease – A Matter of Depth
Authors: Mafra Denise , Kemp Julie A. , Leal Viviane de O. , Cardozo Ludmila , Borges Natalia A. , Alvarenga Livia , Teixeira Karla T. R. , Stenvinkel Peter
Published: March 2023

Fish is an excellent source of ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), amino acids, collagen, vitamins, and iodine and its intake is associated with health benefits, mainly reduces risk of cardiovascular mortality. However, recent studies have shown that fish is also an important source of trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO), a uremic toxin produced by the gut microbiota that promotes an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), TMAO levels are markedly increased due to gut dysbiosis and reduced kidney function. No study has yet evaluated the effects of a fish‐rich diet on TMAO plasma levels and cardiovascular outcomes. This review discusses the pros and cons of a fish‐rich diet in patients with CKD – a matter of depth.
Stress‐constrained topology optimization of structures subjected to nonproportional loading
Authors: Granlund Gunnar , Wallin Mathias , Tortorelli Daniel , Watts Seth
Published: March 2023

This work considers the topology optimization of hyperelastic structures for maximum stiffness (minimum compliance) subject to constraints on their volume and maximum stress. In contrast to almost all previous works, we subject the structures to nonproportional loading, wherein the maximum stress does not necessarily occur at the final load step. As such, the stress is constrained at each load step. The augmented Lagrangian method is used to formulate the optimization problem with its many constraints. In numerical examples, we investigate different load trajectories for the same terminal load and compare the optimized designs and their performances. The results show the importance of considering the entire load trajectory as the load history significantly influences the optimized designs.
Video Ocular Counter‐Roll (vOCR): Otolith‐Ocular Function and Compensatory Effect of the Neck Following Vestibular Loss
Authors: Yang Yuchen , Tian Jing , Otero‐Millan Jorge , Schubert Michael C. , Kheradmand Amir
Published: March 2023

Objective

Assessment of recovery following vestibular loss has been limited by the lack of bedside measures in clinical settings. Here, we used the video ocular counter‐roll (vOCR) test to study otolith‐ocular function and compensatory effect of neck proprioception in patients at different stages of vestibular loss.

Study Design

Case‐control study.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Methods

Fifty‐six subjects were recruited including patients with acute (9 ± 2 days [mean ± standard error of mean]), subacute (61 ± 11 days), and chronic (1009 ± 266 days) unilateral loss of vestibular function, as well as a group of healthy controls. We used a video‐oculography method based on tracking the iris for vOCR measurement. To examine the effect of neck inputs, vOCR was recorded during two simple tilt maneuvers in all subjects while seated: 30° head‐on‐body tilt and 30° head‐and‐body tilt.

Results

The vOCR responses evolved at different stages following vestibular loss with improvement of the gains in the chronic stage. The deficit was more pronounced when the whole body was tilted (acute: 0.08 ± 0.01, subacute: 0.11 ± 0.01, chronic: 0.13 ± 0.02, healthy control: 0.18 ± 0.01), and the gain of vOCR improved when the head was tilted on the body (acute: 0.11 ± 0.01, subacute: 0.14 ± 0.01, chronic: 0.13 ± 0.02, healthy control: 0.17 ± 0.01). The time course of vOCR response was affected as well with reduced amplitude and slower response in the acute stage of vestibular loss.

Conclusion

The vOCR test can be valuable as a clinical marker to measure vestibular recovery and compensatory effect of neck proprioception in patients at different stages following loss of vestibular function.
Otolaryngology Training in Uganda: The Mbarara University of Science and Technology Experience
Authors: Bartholomew Ryan A. , Ceremsak John , Nyaiteera Victoria , Senechal Eva , Kanumuri Vivek , Cheney Mack , de Venecia Ronald K. , Nakku Doreen , Shaye David A.
Published: March 2023

Sub‐Saharan Africa has a high otolaryngologic disease burden exacerbated by an inadequate number of otolaryngologists. The Otolaryngology department at Mbarara University of Science & Technology in Uganda is addressing this problem by having created Uganda's second national residency training program in 2010. We chronicled an early period in the program's development by reporting surgical case quantity and complexity, as defined by “key indicator procedure” classification per the United States Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, and interpreting it with respect to a timeline of significant events. Procedure complexity, but not total number per year, increased over the study period—KIPs increased from 3% in 2012 (6 of 175 total procedures) to 29% in 2016 (35 of 135 total procedures). During this period of complexity increase, operating room capacity expanded, faculty received advanced training and increased in number, and operative equipment improved.
Comparative performance of fused deposit modeling3D‐printedand injection molded polylactic acid/thermoplastic starch/nanoclay bio‐based nanocomposites
Authors: Mahani Hossein , Karevan Mehdi , Safavi Mohsen
Published: March 2023

The use of biodegradable polymers is a good strategy to overcome challenges induced by petroleum‐based polymers. However, in general, there exist limitations in the formulation and fabrication of biodegradable polymers to be used in the development of parts with targeted applications. The issue is more highlighted when the 3D printing of biodegradable blends needs to be addressed. This study examines the formulation and fabrication of biodegradable nano‐reinforced polymer blends to be used in fused‐filament 3D printing. The melt‐mixing method was utilized to prepare filaments and nanocomposite systems of polylactic acid (PLA)/thermoplastic starch (TPS) blends reinforced with 0–5 wt% of nanoclay. To better understand the feasibility of the formulated compound, the process–structure–property interplays in the PLA/TPS based specimens fabricated via the fused‐filament 3D printing and injection molding were investigated and compared. The findings revealed the molded specimens showed greater tensile and flexural behavior than the printed specimens, whereas the impact resistance of the printed and molded parts was comparable. It was shown that increasing nanoclay content led to the increase in the tensile strength, Young's modulus and flexural strength of the specimens regardless of the method used. The greatest tensile strength of 10.1 and 20.1 MPa was revealed at the optimized nanoclay content of 1 and 3 wt% in 3D printed and molded parts, respectively. The surface morphology demonstrated that the addition of nanoclay favorably contributed to the interfacial adhesion, confirmed by the mechanical response of the specimens. It was shown nanoclay enhanced the thermal stability and crystallinity of the specimens while reducing water absorption and biodegradability due to its barrier properties.
Perception and management of cancer predisposition in pediatric cancer centers: A European‐wide questionnaire‐based survey
Authors: Lazic Jelena , Haas Oskar A , Özbek Ugur , Ripperger Tim , Byrjalsen Anna , te Kronnie Geertruij ,   LEGEND‐COST Working group 5 members
Published: March 2023

The European Union‐funded COST Action (LEukaemia GENe Discovery by data sharing, mining, and collaboration) LEGEND was an international and multidisciplinary collaboration between clinicians and researchers that covered a range of aspects of genetic predisposition in childhood leukemia. Within this framework, we explored the perception and handling of genetic predisposition in the daily practice of European treatment centers. Herein, we present the results of our questionnaire‐based survey. We found that the overall awareness is quite high, and respondents remarked that identification and treatment of the most common predisposition syndromes were present. Nevertheless, high demand for continuous education and routinely updated resources remains.
Impact of dexmedetomidine in conjunction with a weaning protocol on post‐surgical opioid use in a neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Dersch‐Mills Deonne , Howlett Alixe , Lind Jan , Marchuk Allison , Mohammad Khorshid
Published: March 2023

Study Objective

To describe the impact of protocol‐driven dexmedetomidine (and clonidine) use on opioid exposure in post‐surgical neonates.

Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

A Level III, surgical NICU.

Patients

Surgical neonates who received clonidine or dexmedetomidine concomitantly with an opioid for sedation and/or analgesia post‐operatively.

Intervention

Implementation of a standardized sedation/analgesia weaning protocol.

Measurements and Main Results

There were clinically, although not statistically, significant reductions in opioid wean duration (240 vs. 227 h, p = 0.82), total opioid duration (604 vs. 435 h, p = 0.23), and total opioid exposure (91 vs. 51 mg ME/kg, p = 0.13), and limited impact on NICU outcomes or pain/withdrawal scores with use of the protocol. Increases in use of medications in alignment with the protocol (e.g., scheduled acetaminophen and opioids weaned first) were noted.

Conclusions

We have been unable to demonstrate a reduction in opioid exposure with use of alpha‐2 agonists alone; addition of a weaning protocol showed a reduction in opioid duration and exposure (although not statistically significant). At this point, dexmedetomidine and clonidine should not be introduced outside standardized protocols with scheduled acetaminophen post‐operatively.
Dosimetric response of Gafchromic™ EBT‐XD film to therapeutic protons
Authors: Guan Fada , Wang Xiaochun , Yang Ming , Draeger Emily , Han Dae , Iga Kiminori , Guo Fanqing , Perles Luis , Li Yuting , Sahoo Narayan , Mohan Radhe , Chen Zhe
Published: March 2023

The EBT‐XD model of Gafchromic™ films has a broader optimal dynamic dose range, up to 40 Gy, compared with its predecessor models. This characteristic has made EBT‐XD films suitable for high‐dose applications, such as stereotactic body radiotherapy and stereotactic radiosurgery, as well as ultra‐high dose rate FLASH radiotherapy. The purpose of the current study was to characterize the dependence of EBT‐XD film response on linear energy transfer (LET) and dose rate of therapeutic protons from a synchrotron. A clinical spot‐scanning proton beam was used to study LET dependence at three dose‐averaged LET values of 1.0 keV/μm, 3.6 keV/μm, and 7.6 keV/μm. A research proton beamline was used to study dose rate dependence at 150 Gy/s in the FLASH mode and 0.3 Gy/s in the non‐FLASH mode. Film response data from dose‐averaged LET values of 0.9 keV/μm and 9.0 keV/μm of the proton FLASH beam were also compared. Film response data from a clinical 6‐MV photon beam were used as a reference. Both the gray value method and optical density (OD) method were used in film calibration. Calibration results using a specific OD calculation method and a generic OD calculation method were compared. The four‐parameter NIH Rodbard function and three‐parameter rational function were compared in fitting the calibration curves. Experimental results showed that the response of EBT‐XD film is proton LET dependent, but independent of dose rate. Goodness‐of‐fit analysis showed that using the NIH Rodbard function is superior for both protons and photons. Using the “specific OD + NIH Rodbard function” method for EBT‐XD film calibration is recommended.
Dynamic edge event‐triggered consensus for one‐sided Lipschitz multiagent systems with disturbances
Authors: Yang Wang , Dong Jiuxiang , Meng Fanwei
Published: March 2023

This paper studies the consensus problem for one‐sided Lipschitz (OSL) multiagent systems (MASs) affected by bounded disturbances via dynamic edge event‐triggered mechanism (DEETM). Due to disturbances and OSL dynamics in MASs, the event‐triggered consensus problem of which is quite more difficult than those of linear or Lipschitz nonlinear networks without disturbances in the previous works. In order to cope with this problem, a novel consensus method is developed based on DEETM and adaptive technique, which contains adaptive gains in both controller and DEETM. Firstly, smooth adaptive items in controller are designed to significantly compensate unknown disturbances, which can guarantee asymptotic consensus. Moreover, DEETM can effectively reduce the communication cost among neighboring agents, which does not cause Zeno behavior. It is worth noticing that the developed method is fully distributed, which relies on neither global information of the communication topology nor the upper and lower bounds of disturbances. Finally, a simulation example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of theoretical results.
Do top management team diversity and chief sustainability officer make firms greener? Moderating role of top management team behavioral integration
Authors: Hashmi Hammad Bin Azam , Voinea Cosmina L. , Caniëls Marjolein C. J. , Ooms Ward , Abbass Kashif
Published: March 2023

Achieving green innovation goals is a challenging task. Several scholars have tried to explore the important determinants of green innovation; however, this concept needs further exploration from the corporate governance perspective. Hence, this study aims at determining the role of a firm's top management team (TMT) composition regarding green innovation. Specifically, we explore the impact of TMT diversity and the presence of a chief sustainability officer (CSO) on green innovation with moderating role of TMT behavioral integration. Data was collected from the hotels' top management in Pakistan. The findings reveal that TMT diversity, CSO, and TMT behavioral integration positively impact green innovation. However, the impact of TMT diversity on green innovation will be stronger with TMT behavioral integration. This study adds value to the upper echelon theory and the literature on green innovation. That is followed by the managerial implications.
The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021: Analyzing the effectiveness of India's ban on commercial surrogacy
Authors: Debnath Kunal , Chatterjee Sreetama
Published: March 2023

In India, the issue of surrogacy has brought the entire field of assisted reproductive techniques under close scrutiny and debate. It has caused controversies as the state has interfered the process of surrogacy to make it ethically acceptable. Indian government acknowledged the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, to protect women's reproductive rights. The Act aims to ban commercial surrogacy and promote altruistic surrogacy without any payment except for the surrogate mother's medical expenses and her insurance coverage. This Act is the object of the first analysis of this article; and second, it investigates how the Act affects prospective childless couples, willing single parents, and members of the LGBTQ community. Employing the interview method and neo‐institutional methodology, this article concludes that the Act made the surrogacy more complex as, in actuality, altruistic surrogacy is a myth because it would be difficult for intended couples to find a willing surrogate mother who will intend to give birth to a child at no cost. This will pave the way for under the table transaction. The Act made it illegal for foreign couples as well as intended Indian couples who already have a child and restricts the chances for the LGBTQ community and single parents.
Surface Modification of Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Nanosheets for Intrinsically Self‐Healing Hydrogels with Enhanced Mechanical Properties
Authors: Ratwani Chirag R. , Zhao Shengxi , Huang Yi , Hadfield Mark , Kamali Ali Reza , Abdelkader Amr M.
Published: March 2023

Nanocomposites with enhanced mechanical properties and efficient self‐healing characteristics can change how the artificially engineered materials’ life cycle is perceived. Improved adhesion of nanomaterials with the host matrix can drastically improve the structural properties and confer the material with repeatable bonding/debonding capabilities. In this work, exfoliated 2H‐WS2 nanosheets are modified using an organic thiol to impart hydrogen bonding sites on the otherwise inert nanosheets by surface functionalization. These modified nanosheets are incorporated within the PVA hydrogel matrix and analyzed for their contribution to the composite's intrinsic self‐healing and mechanical strength. The resulting hydrogel forms a highly flexible macrostructure with an impressive enhancement in mechanical properties and a very high autonomous healing efficiency of 89.92%. Interesting changes in the surface properties after functionalization show that such modification is highly suitable for water‐based polymeric systems. Probing into the healing mechanism using advanced spectroscopic techniques reveals the formation of a stable cyclic structure on the surface of nanosheets, mainly responsible for the improved healing response. This work opens an avenue toward the development of self‐healing nanocomposites where chemically inert nanoparticles participate in the healing network rather than just mechanically reinforcing the matrix by slender adhesion.
Passivation Engineering Using Ultrahydrophobic Donor–π–Acceptor Organic Dye with Machine Learning Insights for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Elsenety Mohamed M. , Christopoulos Eleftherios , Falaras Polycarpos
Published: March 2023

To prevent the degradation of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and optimize the solar energy conversion process, a donor–π–acceptor (D–π–A) organic blue dye as a passivation layer and as a hole‐transporting layer is introduced. The terminal chains of D–π–A dye confer the ultrahydrophobic character (contact angle > 100°) of the interface layer, protecting the perovskite from ambient moisture while mitigating ionic diffusion in the device. The dye interlayer primarily improves the perovskite by reducing grain boundary defects. The perovskite/D–π–A architecture enhances the interfacial hole extraction, suppressing nonradiative carrier recombination and enabling power conversion efficiency (PCE) reaching 20.90%, outperforming by 2.05% the PCE of control cells. Unsealed PSCs retain 84% and 62% of their efficiency after photovoltaic operation for 1000 and 3000 h, respectively. Statistical correlation of bivariant and multivariant analyses of photovoltaic parameters is performed and Pearson's correlation identifies underlying patterns in experimental data collections. Machine learning (ML) of regression algorithms is used to predict the minimum errors and the coefficient of determination, which confirm the analysis quality. The linear regression ML model suggests the importance of photovoltaic parameters (Rs > Vmpp > Jsc > Voc > fill factor > Jmpp > Rsh) toward higher PCE. An efficient online prediction model is also developed to support the estimation of PCEs with high accuracy.
Band Bending at CdTe Solar Cell Contacts: Correlating Electro‐Optical and X‐Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Analyses of Thin Film Solar Cells
Authors: Kuciauskas Darius , Perkins Craig L. , Nardone Marco , Lee Chungho , Mallick Rajni , Xiong Gang
Published: March 2023

With the semiconductor bulk properties reaching target values for highly efficient solar cells, efforts are applied to reduce losses at solar cell interfaces and contacts. Advances in understanding back contacts in thin‐film polycrystalline CdTe solar cells, a leading thin‐film PV technology, are reported. By using X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Kelvin probe spectroscopy, time‐ and energy‐resolved photoluminescence, defects at the back contact are analyzed. Densities of recombination centers and charged defects that induce near‐back‐contact band bending, both resulting in recombination losses, were estimated. Electro‐optical and surface analysis results are integrated into a device model, simulating the performance of CdSeTe/CdTe solar cells with 902 mV open circuit voltage.
A protocol to establish trust on biometric authentication devices
Authors: Kiran Usha , Moona Rajat , Biswas Santosh
Published: March 2023

One of the most extensively utilized mechanisms for person authentication is a system built using biometric‐based authentication. However, many applications use biometric authentication devices that do not support any device authentication mechanisms. As a result, a counterfeit scanning device may be substituted for the genuine one. Non‐authentic biometric authentication devices may perform some additive / subtractive or malicious functions. This paper proposes a technique for establishing trust in biometric authentication devices. The device authentication procedure is essential to build trust in biometric authentication devices such that non‐genuine biometric authentication devices are not used, which may compromise the loss of authentication factor and its replay when the genuine user is not getting authenticated. The protocol uses strong cryptographic mechanisms to authenticate the biometric authentication device with the application server and includes mechanisms for protection against the tampering of biometric templates and to prevent replay attacks. We also perform a formal verification using BAN logic to demonstrate that the proposed protocol meets the defined objectives. The proposed protocol can be used with any biometric authentication device to achieve the same objectives.
Assay of iodine monochloride via iodination of 2‐chloroaniline using reversed‐phase liquid chromatography
Authors: Purushottam Sutar , Kumar Ajay , Ganesh Chaturbhuj
Published: March 2023

Iodine monochloride is conventionally determined using the sodium thiosulphate titration method. Recently, mono‐iodination of 2‐chloroaniline in N,N‐dimethylformamide has been reported in the presence of iodine monochloride. A reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography method for the assay of iodine monochloride on the C18 column has been developed via the iodination of 2‐chloroaniline. Chromatographic separation was achieved using gradient elution with water and acetonitrile as mobile phase at 1 ml/min flow rate and detection at 304 nm. The elution of 2‐chloro‐4‐iodoaniline was observed at 5.492 min. Under the given experimental conditions, an excess of 2‐chloroaniline dissolved in acetonitrile reacted with a known amount of pure iodine monochloride resulting in 2‐chloro‐4‐iodoaniline. The amount of 2‐chloro‐4‐iodoaniline formed is a measure of the initial iodine monochloride concentration, thus providing the assay of iodine monochloride. The method was validated as per the guidelines of the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines and found to be linear (r2 = 0.999) and accurate (98%–102%) for iodine monochloride concentrations ranging from 0.4 to 1.2 mg/ml. The intra‐day and inter‐day precision were within 1%. The validated method was successfully applied to determine the assay of commercially available iodine monochloride, Wijs solution, and in‐situ generated iodine monochloride samples. Thus, a novel, simple, accurate, and precise HPLC method has been developed for iodination monochloride assay.
Imaged capillary isoelectric focusing employing fluorocarbon and methylcellulose coated fused silica capillary for characterization of charge heterogeneity of protein biopharmaceuticals
Authors: Kwok Teresa , Chan She Lin , Shi Jessica , Zhou Mike , Schaefer Anna , Bo Tao , Li Victor , Huang Tiemin , Chen Tong
Published: March 2023

Identifying and characterizing charge heterogeneity is essential for the successful development and production of biopharmaceuticals. Imaged capillary isoelectric focusing technology based on isoelectric point differentiation has been becoming the gold standard of quality and manufactory process control in the biopharmaceutical industry due to its high‐resolution characterization of protein charge variants with high throughput. Fluorocarbon‐coated capillaries are widely used in the imaged capillary isoelectric focusing to suppress the electroosmotic flow and minimize the protein adsorption onto the fused silica capillary inner surface. Additionally, polymers such as methylcellulose are usually added to the sample solution to serve as a dynamic capillary coating that improves the peak shape and resolution during the imaged capillary isoelectric focusing separation, especially for complex proteins. However, the addition of methylcellulose tends to result in tedious operation, “spike peaks” from bubble generation, and frequent capillary blockage during the imaged capillary isoelectric focusing separation. In addition, methylcellulose is not compatible with mass spectrometry and easily produces the contamination of mass spectrometry ion source when carrying out imaged capillary isoelectric focusing—mass spectrometry direct coupling. Recently, a new imaged capillary isoelectric focusing method was developed employing a methylcellulose‐coated capillary cartridge, to avoid the addition of methylcellulose which is then present throughout the whole analysis. When applied to protein drug characterization the established imaged capillary isoelectric focusing method demonstrated high repeatability, stable coatings, outstanding separation efficiency, and excellent isoelectric point differentiation. In addition, we compared imaged capillary isoelectric focusing separation using the methylcellulose‐coated capillary with that utilizing the routinely coated capillary such as fluorocarbon, illustrating that methylcellulose coating provided consistent results and could be seamlessly integrated into an existing drug discovery process. Finally, the methylcellulose‐coated fused silica capillary was applied to imaged capillary isoelectric focusing—mass spectrometry for characterizing protein charge variants allowing reliable identification of mass spectrometry after imaged capillary isoelectric focusing separation. This can greatly simplify the operation steps and prevent the contamination of mass spectrometry ion source that often results from using routinely coated capillaries ultimately making this an essential innovation of imaged capillary isoelectric focusing—mass spectrometry that greatly improves the imaged capillary isoelectric focusing compatibility with mass spectrometry.
Enhanced Long‐Term Luminescent Stability through Near‐Single‐Dot Passivation and Encapsulation of Perovskite Quantum Dots for Printable Photonics
Authors: Wang Jiaxuan , Huang Dapeng , Zhou Yifei , Liao Chuan , Guo Peng , Li Zexin , Zhou Guangjun , Yu Xiaoqiang , Hu Jifan
Published: March 2023

Metal halide perovskites quantum dots (QDs) stand at the forefront of multifarious photonic applications, including micro‐light‐emitting diode and further augmented reality, virtual reality, and other novel display, lighting technologies. Barriers to applications, however, lie in their toxicity of lead, instability to light, moisture and heat, and processability at the nanoscale‐particle level. Herein, a simple and versatile postprocessing approach is reported for the near‐single‐dot passivation and encapsulation of representative lead‐free double perovskite Cs2Ag0.4Na0.6InCl6:Bi through liquid‐phase processing of perhydropolysilazane and quantum dots colloid with controllable hydrolysis curing. The conventional unstable oleylamine and oleic acid ligands are replaced by ‐NCl bonding on the surface of nanocrystal, accompanied by the resulting compact and robust silica layer without compromising the optical properties of the quantum dots. With the near‐single‐dot protection, the quantum dots do not show fluorescence quenching even when stored for more than 90 days and exhibit remarkably improved stability against heat, ultraviolet irradiation and humidity compared to the raw quantum dots. The strategy offers a versatile way of creating nanoscale‐particle level protection of luminescent quantum dots, and can be universally compatible with solution‐based patterning techniques and photonics applications where quantum dots are used.
Single‐atom catalyst application in distributed renewable energy conversion and storage
Authors: Li Xiao , Xu Wenxiu , Fang Yuhan , Hu Riming , Yu Jiayuan , Liu Hong , Zhou Weijia
Published: March 2023

In recent years, owing to the depletion of fossil energy and the aggravation of environmental pollution, the conversion and storage of distributed renewable energy (such as solar energy, wind energy, and tidal energy) based on electrochemical technology have attracted extensive attention. Electrocatalytic processes with high efficiency and high selectivity play a key role in clean energy conversion and storage. With the nearly 100% atomic utilization rate and unique catalytic activity, single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have been rapidly developed and widely used in the field of energy conversion and storage. In this review, we first introduce the characteristics of SACs. Then, we focus on the application of SACs in energy conversion, including water electrolysis reaction, nitrogen reduction reaction, nitrate reduction reaction, oxygen reduction reaction, and carbon dioxide reduction reaction. In terms of energy storage, we focus on supercapacitors and Li–S batteries. Further, we enumerate some of the methods for the synthesis of SACs in high metal loading or large scale. Finally, the main challenges and opportunities for this emerging field in the future are discussed and prospected.