bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tax‐efficient supply chain allocation in a competitive environment
Authors: Jiang Yuan , Guan Xu , Chen Ying‐Ju , Bian Yiwen
Published: July 2023

Many regulations have been enacted to prevent the multinational firm's (MNF's) tax avoidance and cause the enforcement cost of incoming shifting. This paper investigates the impact of the enforcement cost on a firm's tax‐efficient supply chain allocation strategy, wherein the firm can either create a research and development (R&D) center that innovates the intangible assets or create a distributor that acts as a marketing hub, in a low tax region to explore tax arbitrage. We show that when the firm engages in market competition and the impact of the enforcement cost is low, it prefers to create a distributor in the low tax region to align the benefits of tax saving and internal coordination. While if the impact of the enforcement cost is high, the firm prefers R&D center in the low tax region that can effectively mitigate the enforcement cost and achieve tax saving. When the market competition becomes more intense, the firm becomes more likely to choose R&D center in the low tax region to alleviate market competition. In this scenario, the social welfare is always higher when the firm allocates distributor in the low tax region. When an external supplier exists, the firm is still more likely to choose R&D center in the low tax region to reduce the supplier's wholesale price. What's more, in the presence of external supplier, the social welfare can be higher under either allocation format.
Measuring chemical exchange saturation transfer exchange rates in the human brain using a particle swarm optimisation algorithm
Authors: Carradus Andrew J. , Bradley Joe M. P. , Gowland Penny A. , Mougin Olivier E.
Published: July 2023

The z‐spectrum contains many pools with different exchange rates and T2 values, which can make it difficult to interpret in vivo data and complicates the design of experiments aimed at providing sensitivity to one pool. This work aims to characterise the main pools observable with MRI at 7T in the human brain. To achieve this, we acquired z‐spectra at multiple saturation powers in the human brain at 7T. We used simulations to optimise the use of particle swarm optimisation (PSO) to fit these data, validating this approach using further simulations and creatine phantoms. We then used the PSO to fit data from grey and white matter for the pool size, exchange rate, and T2 of five proton pools (magnetisation transfer, amides, amines, nuclear Overhauser enhancement NOE−3.5ppm and NOE−1.7ppm in addition to water). We then devised an approach for using PSO to fit z‐spectra while limiting the computational burden, and we investigated the sensitivity of the fit to T2 and k for three overlapping pools. We used this to measure the exchange rate of creatine and to show that it varied with temperature, as expected. In the brain we measured a significantly larger pool size in white matter than in grey matter for the magnetisation transfer pool and the NOE−3.5ppm pool. For all other parameters we found no significant difference between grey and white matter. We showed that PSO can be used to fit z‐spectra acquired at a range of B1 to provide information about peak position, amplitude, exchange rate, and T2 in vivo in the human brain. These data could provide more sensitivity to change in some clinical conditions and will also provide key information for further experimental design.
Two‐stage stochastic one‐to‐many driver matching for ridesharing
Authors: Homsi Gabriel , Gendron Bernard , Jena Sanjay Dominik
Published: July 2023

We introduce a modeling framework for stochastic rider‐driver matching in many‐to‐one ridesharing systems, in which drivers have to be selected before the exact rider demand is known. The modeling framework allows for the use of driver booking fees and penalties for unmatched drivers, therefore supporting different system operating modes. We model this problem as a two‐stage stochastic set packing problem. To tackle the intractability of the stochastic problem, we introduce three model approximations and evaluate them on a large set of benchmark instances for three different system operating modes. Our computational experiments show the superiority of some model approximations over others and provide valuable insights on the impact of penalties and booking fees on the system's profitability and user satisfaction.
Adverse effects of dorsogluteal intramuscular injection versus ventrogluteal intramuscular injection: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Roldán‐Chicano María Teresa , Rodríguez‐Tello Javier , Cebrián‐López Raquel , Moore James Richard , del Mar García‐López María
Published: July 2023

Aims

To determine adverse effects of ventrogluteal intramuscular injections versus dorsogluteal intramuscular injections.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINHAL, CENTRAL, LILACS(BVS), BDENF (BVS), WoS, IRCTP(WHO), ClinicalsTrials.gov and PROSPERO databases were searched with no restriction on year or language. Preferred Reporting items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed.

Results

A total of 1429 participants from 17 studies were included. The meta‐analysis found that ventrogluteal injection site had significant relation to lower pain in 9 studies (SMD = −0.63, 95% CI = −0.87, −0.39), bleeding in 4 studies (SMD = −3.46, 95% CI = −6.07, –0.86) and hematoma in 2 studies; after 48 h (SMD = −0.25, 95% CI = −0.39, −0.11), and after 72 h (SMD = −0.16, 95% CI = −0.26, –0.06), if it was compared with dorsogluteal site injection. No differences were found when comparing the possibility of intramuscular injections given into de subcutaneous tissue. In three studies, ventrogluteal site did not significantly reduce the risk of subcutaneous injection (OR 0,62, 95% CI = 0.16, 2.41).
Development and acceptability testing of a decision aid for considering whether to reduce antipsychotics in individuals with stable schizophrenia
Authors: Aoki Yumi , Takaesu Yoshikazu , Matsui Kentaro , Tokumasu Takahiro , Tani Hideaki , Takekita Yoshiteru , Kanazawa Tetsufumi , Kishimoto Taishiro , Tarutani Seiichiro , Hashimoto Naoki , Takeuchi Hiroyoshi , Mishima Kazuo , Inada Ken
Published: July 2023

Aim

Continued antipsychotic treatment is the key to preventing relapse. Maintenance antipsychotic monotherapy and optimal dose use are recommended for individuals with stable schizophrenia because of their undesirable effects. Decision aids (DAs) are clinical conversation tools that facilitate shared decision‐making (SDM) between patients and health‐care providers. This study aimed to describe the development process and results of acceptability testing of a DA for individuals with stable schizophrenia, considering (i) whether to continue high‐dose antipsychotics or reduce to the standard dose and (ii) whether to continue two antipsychotics or shift to monotherapy.

Methods

A DA was developed according to the guidelines for the appropriate use of psychotropic medications and International Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS). First, a DA prototype was developed based on a previous systematic review and meta‐analysis conducted for identifying the effects of continuing or reducing antipsychotic treatment. Second, mixed‐method survey was performed among individuals with schizophrenia and health‐care providers to modify and finalize the DA.

Results

The DA consisted of an explanation of schizophrenia, options to continue high‐dose antipsychotics or reduce to the standard dose, options to continue two antipsychotics or shift to monotherapy, pros and cons of each option, and a value‐clarification worksheet for each option. The patients (n = 20) reported acceptable language use (75%), adequate information (75%), and well‐balanced presentation (79%). Health‐care providers (n = 20) also provided favorable overall feedback. The final DA covered six IPDAS qualifying criteria.

Conclusion

A DA was successfully developed for schizophrenia, considering whether to reduce antipsychotics, which can be used in the SDM process.
Process optimization of continuous flax fiber/polylactic acid prepreg filaments toward high performance 3D‐printed composites
Authors: Yang Zhe , Zhang Zhongsen , Long Yu , Fu Kunkun , Li Yan
Published: July 2023

A novel process optimization was proposed by rotational vibration and structural design of flax yarns to manufacture large‐tow flax fiber prepreg filaments for 3D printing components with balanced efficiency and performance. It demonstrated that the untwisting of flax yarns generated by rotational vibration produced a dispersed yarn structure, which provided more flow channels for the polylactic acid (PLA) resin to infiltrate yarns. As for the structural design of yarns, the specific surface area increases after replacing the single yarn of large liner density with multiple fine yarns, which further shortens the impregnation time. Unidirectional continuous flax fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) composites were obtained by 3D printing. The mechanical test results showed that the tensile properties of CFRTP composites were significantly increased using filaments consisting of multiple fine flax yarns and the aid of rotational vibration due to the improved impregnation of yarns with PLA resin.
Comprehensive characterization of 3D‐printed bamboo/poly(lactic acid) bio composites
Authors: Yilmaz Sinan , Gul Okan , Eyri Busra , Gamze Karsli Yilmaz N. , Yilmaz Taner
Published: July 2023

In recent years, the use of additive manufacturing technologies especially fused deposition modeling (FDM), 3D printing, have been raised popularity. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is one of the most widely used materials in FDM because it is suitable for biodegradation due to environmental problems. Therefore, to improve the properties of PLA and extend its lifespan, the material to be added to its structure must be of natural origin. In this study, mechanical, thermal, thermo‐mechanical, tribological, and morphological properties of composite materials manufactured using bamboo filled PLA filament by FDM method were investigated. The thermal properties of the samples were investigated by differential scanning calorimeter analysis, thermomechanical properties by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, mechanical properties by tensile and three‐point bending test, and surface hardness by Shore D test. Since there are few studies in the literature examining the effects of 3D printing parameters on tribological properties, in this study, various layer thicknesses, top/bottom pattern, specimen face, and build plate surface type on the wear behavior were examined. Worn surfaces and fractured surfaces were investigated by SEM.
Use of a Luffa cylindrica/polypyrrole composite for removing dyes from aqueous media
Authors: de Aguiar Maurício F. , Leal Andressa N. R. , Silva Joyce , de Andrade Gizele G. F. , de Melo Celso P. , Alves Kleber G. B.
Published: July 2023

We report the preparation of a Luffa cylindrica/polypyrrole (LC/PPy) composite and its use for the removal of tartrazine dye (E102) from aqueous media. By use of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopies, X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), we were able to confirm that the PPy chains thoroughly coat the LC matrix, with the composite presenting both amorphous and crystalline phases such as pristine LC. We examined the effects of varying parameters, such as the times allotted for the polymerization and the dye–adsorbent interaction, the E102 initial concentration and the temperature and pH of the solution, on the removal capacity (qe) of the composite. The largest adsorption rate was exhibited by the composite resulting from a 30 min polymerization. At 298 K, the highest value of qe (374.2 mg g−1) occurred at pH 2.0, after 360 min of interaction. The adsorption process occurs spontaneously and is favored by an increase in temperature, with qe = 672.4 mg g−1 at 313 K. We determined that the composite could be used in at least five consecutive adsorption–desorption cycles without noticeable losses of properties. Preliminary experiments indicate that good results were also obtained for the removal of the dyes Remazol Black B, methylene blue and toluidine blue. Overall, these results suggest that the LC/PPy composite is a promising material for use in protocols of removal of dyes from aqueous media. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Comparison of childhood trauma between depressive disorders and personality disorders
Authors: Jayakody Kaushadh , Gunadasa Shalmini
Published: July 2023

The relationship between childhood trauma with major depressive disorder (MDD) and personality disorders is complex. We explored the differences in the subjective reporting of childhood trauma to determine whether there were differences between those with a diagnosis of personality disorder and those with MDD. Adult patients with depressive symptoms were recruited from three adult psychiatry inpatient wards. Sixty inpatients fulfilled the study criteria and were requested to complete the childhood trauma questionnaire (CTQ). At discharge, diagnosis was determined and was allocated mainly to two groups: those with MDD and those with personality disorder. Those with MDD, dysthymia and subsyndromal depressive symptoms were included in the Depression Broad Definition (DBD) group (secondary analysis). Significantly higher subjective reporting of childhood trauma was observed in the personality disorder group compared with MDD in three CTQ domains. Similarly, significantly higher reporting of childhood trauma was observed in all five CTQ domains in those with a personality disorder compared with the DBD group. In conclusion, the presence of personality disorder was associated with greater subjective reporting of childhood trauma compared with those with MDD, and further research is required to explore the differences in objective experience of childhood trauma between the diagnoses using objective measures.
Sintering evolution monitoring of ultra‐high‐molecular‐weight polyethylene
Authors: Zhou Ying , Ohnishi Takuya , Lesser Alan
Published: July 2023

UHMWPE nascent powders have been commercially processed by sintering for decades although key aspects of the mechanisms and kinetics of this process are not fully understood. Herein, the volume change during each stage of the sintering is monitored by in‐situ measurements with other characterization methods. Results indicate that the α‐transition plays a crucial role in the early stages of the sintering process. Without pressure during sintering, a large expansion is observed during heating through the α‐transition well before melting and this apparent volume change is also related to the residual stress resulting from the compaction. However, the application of a moderate pressure during heating leads to a significant densification. Specifically, five distinct processes are identified from the in‐situ measurements via customized pressure sintering apparatus. These include room temperature densification, subsequent densification while heating through the α‐transition, process of melt explosion that involves the enthalpic process of crystal melting and the entropic process density changes during the isothermal sintering of non‐equilibrium melt, and the subsequent recrystallization under pressure. The density evolution offers a comprehensive understanding of the intricate processing of UHMWPE nascent powder and this can be effectively employed to investigate the impact of various processing parameters on the sintering process.
Preparation of electrospun PVA@Ls@BAC@PDMS composite nanofibrous air filtration membrane with high efficiency removal for PM2.5 and excellent heat resistance
Authors: Wang Yi , Miao Yu , Cai Yuxin , Wang Enfu , Liang YiPeng , Zhong Jinhuan , Zhang Wenbiao , Huang Jingda
Published: July 2023

Development of water‐soluble polymer air filtration materials attracts considerable attentions due to their environmentally friendly performance and high efficiency, but the balance of mechanical strength, efficiency and pressure drop still is a severe challenge. Focusing on this issue, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), bamboo activated carbon (BAC) and sodium lignosulfonate (Ls) were combined to construct an electrospinning system with two filtration functions. In the PVA@Ls@BAC system, the 3D network constructed by the electrospun PVA based nanofibrous could effectively intercept PM2.5, and the introduced Ls enhanced the mechanical strength of PVA nanofibrous due to its good rigidity. In addition, the added negatively charged BAC facilitated the electrostatic adsorption of PM2.5 while also improved the heat resistance of the system. Moreover, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) was introduced to enhance the water resistance of the system. The resulting electrospun PVA@Ls@BAC@PDMS composite nanofibrous air filtration membrane exhibited excellent air filtration performance (98.67%), water repellency (123.7° of WCA), and reusable performance, as well as having good mechanical property and the tensile fracture strain reaching 112%. Because of its good performance and simple preparation process, the electrospun PVA@Ls@BAC@PDMS composite nanofibrous air filtration membrane has great application space.
On the Role of Nuclear Motion in Singlet Exciton Fission: The Case of Single‐Crystal Pentacene
Authors: Neef Alexander , Rossi Mariana , Wolf Martin , Ernstorfer Ralph , Seiler Hélène
Published: July 2023

Singlet exciton fission (SF), the formation of two triplet excitons from one singlet exciton, involves electronic, nuclear, and spin degrees of freedom as well as their couplings. Despite almost 60 years of research on this process, a complete microscopic understanding is still missing. One important open question concerns the role of nuclear motion in SF. In this perspective, recent results on the exciton dynamics are related to the structural dynamics of single‐crystal pentacene and how they provide insights into that open question is shown. To probe the electronic dynamics, orbital‐resolved measurements of the electronic structure are carried out using time‐ and angle‐resolved photoemission spectroscopy. With femtosecond electron diffraction and with ab initio computations, the complementary nuclear dynamics is tracked. The results from both techniques are summarized, and how they relate to each other is discussed. Then, remaining open questions are outlined and potential routes are identified to tackle them, hopefully guiding future studies.
Detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 Virus Concentration Using a Simple Structure of Binary Photonic Crystal Sensor
Authors: Taya Sofyan A. , Daher Malek G. , Almawgani Abdulkarem H. M. , Hindi Ayman Taher , Colak Ilhami
Published: July 2023

The scientific community works hard on developing reliable, rapid, highly sensitive, and low‐cost techniques to detect severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). The current techniques can occasionally produce false‐positive results. The development of novel approaches for the identification of SARS‐CoV‐2 is a significant area of research because of the limitations of current methods. A biosensor based on a defective binary photonic crystal (PCL) is proposed to detect SARS‐CoV‐2 concentration herein. The model of pathogen concentration‐dependent refractive index of the analyte is taken into consideration. The concept of operation of the PCL sensor is based on the defect mode shift when any change in the refractive index of the defect layer occurs. The transmission spectra of the PCL are plotted and studied. An optimum incident angle of 80° and a defect layer thickness of 5 μm are found. The relationship between the defect mode's wavelength and the concentration of SARS‐CoV‐2 is investigated and a sensitivity of 2648.3 nm RIU−1 is attained.
AlYN Thin Films with High Y Content: Microstructure and Performance
Authors: Solonenko Dmytro , Strube Jannik , Fammels Jannick , Fisslthaler Evelin , Röbisch Volker , Howell Kaitlin , Sinani Taulant , Pilz Julian , Pashchenko Vladimir , Risquez Sarah , Moridi Mohssen , Bruckner Gudrun
Published: July 2023

Pseudobinary nitride alloys display enhanced piezoelectric properties compared to their nonalloyed counterparts enabling their wide application in high‐performance transducers and acoustic wave resonators. Their fabrication remains challenging because of their inherently stochastic nature, which requires in‐depth understanding of the film growth dynamics and the interplay of deposition parameters. Herein, thin Al1−xYxN films are produced with varied yttrium content in the range fromx = 0.09 to 0.28 on a gradient seed layer on 200‐mm Si substrates and investigated via various X‐ray diffraction methods, high‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy, nanoindentation, and atomic force microscopy. Bulk acoustic wave resonators, solidly mounted on a multilayer acoustic isolation, are fabricated to analyze the piezoelectric performance of the films and to extract corresponding material parameters via fitting of the high‐frequency electrical response by 1D Mason's model. The trend of declining coupling is explained by the lattice softening and the increase in electron density, experimentally observed by monitoring reduced elastic modulus and dielectric constant values, respectively. The absence of expected enhancement of the piezoelectric modulus is interpreted by the presence of oxygen impurities, facilitating the inhomogeneous strain of the AlYN lattice, which effectively cancels the energy flattening phenomenon, found in III–V pseudobinary alloys.
Atmospheric kinetic energy spectra from global and regional NCMRWF unified modelling system
Authors: Niranjan Kumar Kondapalli , Ashrit Raghavendra , Sreevathsa Raghavendra , Kumar Sumit , Mishra A. K. , Thota Mohan S. , Jayakumar A. , Mohandas Saji , Mitra A. K.
Published: July 2023

Characteristics of the atmospheric kinetic energy (KE) spectrum follow a distinct power‐law dependence in the synoptic (k−3) and mesoscales (k−5/3), where k is the horizontal wave‐number. The representation of this canonical spectral behaviour provides a testimony of the acceptability of the design, configuration and performance of a numerical weather prediction (NWP) model. Therefore, the characteristics of the KE spectrum are studied using an operational version of the high‐resolution National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) Unified Model (NCUM) system considering both global (∼12 km mesh) and regional (∼4 km mesh) configurations during the northern hemispheric summer period (June–August 2020). The synoptic‐scale spectral characteristics of the NCUM global (NCUM‐G) model match well with the observed spectrum in the tropics, midlatitudes and polar regions. However, the regional NCUM model (NCUM‐R) outperforms the NCUM‐G in representing the canonical slope at mesoscales. As the NCMRWF is accelerating towards a high‐resolution 6 km global (NCUM‐G6) operational model, the spectral characteristics from NCUM‐G6 are also studied during the monsoon period. Though the representation of the mesoscale spectrum is better in NCUM‐G6 relative to NCUM‐G, the regional model surpasses both the global models while demonstrating the mesoscale characteristics close to the observed spectral slopes. Further, the mesoscale spectrum deviates gradually from the Lindborg (1999) analytical fit in the mesoscales around 20Δx (where Δx ∼ 4 km), which specifies an effective resolution of the regional model. Hence, the regional model needs refinements optimally to further reduce the energy dissipation at high wave‐numbers to improve the mesoscale features at the limits of its grid resolution.
Daytime convective development over land: The role of surface forcing
Authors: Grabowski Wojciech W.
Published: July 2023

Water availability at the Earth surface determines the portioning of the surface heat flux into its sensible and latent components, that is, the surface heat flux Bowen ratio. The two components affect differently the surface buoyancy flux and thus the development and growth of the convective boundary layer. As a result, the Bowen ratio has a strong impact on the daytime development of dry and moist convection over land. We use two canonical modeling test cases, one for the shallow convection and one for the shallow‐to‐deep convection transition, to document the impact of the surface Bowen ratio on daytime convection development. A simple approach is used where results from simulations featuring the original setup are contrasted with simulations where the surface‐sensible heat flux takes on values of the latent heat flux and vice versa. Such a change illustrates the key impact of the surface water availability without changing the total surface heat flux. Because of the larger surface buoyancy flux, simulations with the reversed surface heat fluxes feature faster deepening of the convective boundary layer and wider clouds once moist convection develops. Mean cloud‐base width of cumulus clouds increases with the boundary‐layer depth. For shallow‐to‐deep convection transition, comparison of simulations with the observed large‐scale flow that feature substantial lower‐tropospheric shear with simulations with no mean horizontal flow suggests that the organization of convective circulations within the boundary layer strongly affects initial size and organization of shallow convection, as well as the subsequent width increase once convection deepens and eventually transitions to deep precipitating convection. A simple explanation is provided of why a deeper well‐mixed convective subcloud layer results in wider clouds. The key is the larger width of boundary‐layer coherent updraft structures when the mixed layer is deeper.
Spontaneous Collapse by Entanglement Suppression
Authors: Buks Eyal
Published: July 2023

A modified Schrödinger equation having an added nonlinear term, which gives rise to disentanglement, has been recently proposed. The process of quantum measurement is explored for the case of a pair of coupled spins. It is found that the deterministic time evolution generated by the modified Schrödinger equation mimics the process of wavefunction collapse. Added noise gives rise to stochasticity in the measurement process. Conflict with both principles of causality and separability can be avoided by postulating that the nonlinear term is active only during the time when subsystems interact. Moreover, in the absence of entanglement, all predictions of standard quantum mechanics are unaffected by the added nonlinear term.
Magnetic Field Sensitivity Optimization of Negatively Charged Boron Vacancy Defects in hBN.
Authors: Whitefield Benjamin , Toth Milos , Aharonovich Igor , Tetienne Jean‐Philippe , Kianinia Mehran
Published: July 2023

Optically active spin defects in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) have recently emerged as compelling quantum sensors hosted by a two dimensional (2D) material. The photodynamics and sensitivity of spin defects are governed by their level structure and associated transition rates. These are, however, poorly understood for spin defects in hBN. Here, optical and microwave pump‐probe measurements are used to characterize the relaxation dynamics of the negatively charged boron vacancy (VB−)—the most widely‐studied spin defect in hBN. A 5‐level model is used to deduce transition rates that give rise to spin‐dependent VB− photoluminescence, and the lifetime of the VB− intersystem crossing metastable state. The obtained rates are used to simulate the magnetic field sensitivity of VB− defects and demonstrate high resolution imaging of the magnetic field generated by a single magnetic particle using optimal sensing parameters predicted by the model. The results reveal the rates that underpin VB− photodynamics, which is important for both a fundamental understanding of the VB− as a spin‐photon interface and for achieving optimal sensitivity in quantum sensing applications.
Laparoscopic to robotic living donor nephrectomy: Is it time to change surgical technique?
Authors: Papa Sarah , Popovic Aleksandar , Loerzel Sharon , Iskhagi Samir , Gallay Brian , Leggat John , Saidi Reza , Hod Dvorai Reut , Shahbazov Rauf
Published: July 2023

Background

We aimed to explore differences in outcomes of robotic and laparoscopic donor nephrectomies (LDN).

Methods

This study compared robotic and laparoscopic surgical techniques for live donor nephrectomies in 153 patients at a single centre.

Results

Left nephrectomies were more common in both groups, but with no significant difference between the groups (76.6% vs. 77.6%, p = 0.88). The robotic donor nephrectomies (RDN) group experienced significantly less blood loss (60 vs. 134 mL, p < 0.01), but warm ischaemia time was similar between groups (3.2 vs. 3.7 min, p = 0.54).The RDN group had decreased subjective pain scores (3.54 vs. 4.21, p = 0.04) and shorter length of hospitalisation (2.22 vs. 3.04 days, p < 0.01).There were also fewer complications in the RDN than the LDN group (4 vs. 8, p = 0.186).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that RDN is a safe and alternative to LDN. Decreased blood loss and hospital stays and fewer complications may reflect decreased tissue manipulation with robotic assistance.
Bioremediation potential of Brevibacillus parabrevis AMB‐CD‐2 in spinach under lead toxicity
Authors: Ismail Safina , Mannade Ajit Kumar , Tedia Koshlendra , Singh Anup Kumar , Chowdhury Tapas , Soni Ravindra
Published: July 2023

The present study was conducted to evaluate the impact of lead toxicity on the growth parameters of spinach and the performance of lead‐resistant bacterial isolates under lead stress conditions. Out of four bacterial isolates selected for this study, only two isolates AMB‐CD‐2 and AMB‐CD‐4 were selected based on their lead tolerance ability. A polybag experiment was conducted with six treatments and four replications in spinach. The treatments included T1 (RDF + control), T2 (lead acetate), T3 (AMB‐CD‐2 + lead), T4 (AMB‐CD‐4 + lead), T5 (AMB‐CD‐2), and T6 (AMB‐CD‐4). Results showed that lead contamination significantly decreased plant growth parameters, particularly in the treatment T2 (lead acetate) when compared with other treatments. Similarly, reduced uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) was recorded in T2. Inoculation with lead‐resistant bacteria, AMB‐CD‐2, significantly improved plant growth parameters (plant height, root fresh weight, shoot fresh weight, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, and root length). The uptake of NPK was higher in T5 (AMB‐CD‐2) in the absence of lead by approximately 0.81%, 0.37%, and 0.42% than in the control, respectively. Through atomic absorption spectrophotometer analysis, the lead concentration in treatment T2 (control) was about 3.20 mg/g while in treatment T3 (AMB‐CD‐2 + lead) it was about 1.32 ppm. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that AMB‐CD‐2 resembles Brevibacillus parabrevis. The results demonstrate that the lead‐resistant bacteria B. parabrevis AMB‐CD‐2 showed a significant lead reduction of approximately 58.75% compared to the control.
Whose entry to primary school is deferred or delayed? Evidence from the English National Pupil Database
Authors: Campbell Tammy
Published: July 2023

This paper explores national patterns of entry to primary school in England over the past decade. It focuses on deferred entry (where children begin Reception with the cohort below) and delayed entry (where children miss some or all of Reception, and enter Year 1 with their ‘normal’ cohort). In 2014, the Department for Education's (DfE's) guidance began to be updated to clarify the ‘right to request’ later entry. Analyses of the National Pupil Database (NPD) show a rise in deferral rates from this point. However, rates of delayed entry remain fairly steady after this time. Variation by local authority in deferral rates has become wider over recent years. Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), as recorded in the NPD, are now much more likely to defer entry, alongside those who would be youngest in their ‘normal’ cohort (August‐borns). Children from families eligible for free school meals (FSM) and from families speaking English as an Additional Language (EAL) are less likely. When these factors are interacted, children with SEND from more advantaged families (proxied by FSM and EAL) are most likely. Alongside additional inequalities in patterns of deferral and delay, these findings interrogate the DfE's assessment that ‘good progress has been made’ in terms of ‘right to request’ later school entry, and that, ‘the system is now working well’. They also raise wider questions around the accessibility, fairness and efficacy of such quasi‐policies which confer a ‘right to request’ aspects of a child's education, rather than enshrining them through legislation as an unconditional, mainstreamed option for all.

Context and implications

Rationale for this study

Before this study, there was no national quantitative evidence on patterns of and inequalities in deferred and delayed entry to primary school in England.

Why the new findings matter

New findings show that children from more advantaged (higher‐income/English‐speaking) families are more likely to be deferred and to enter reception with the cohort below.

Implications for policy‐makers

Policy makers should consider whether a system relying on non‐statutory guidance and ‘right to request’ later school entry adds to inequities, if access to the option is not equitably accessible. They should transparently assess the current situation, using new evidence, and ensure all children's needs are met when beginning primary school.
Carbon sequestration potential of process‐based river restoration
Authors: Hinshaw Sarah , Wohl Ellen
Published: July 2023

Floodplain restoration can enhance the capacity for carbon sequestration by facilitating higher water tables, deposition of fine sediment, and increased input and residence time of organic matter. We measured floodplain soil organic carbon stocks in nine stream restoration projects across the western United States and compared them to nearby degraded and reference condition floodplains. Degraded floodplains had the lowest soil mean carbon stocks in the majority of floodplains measured (range 161–894 Mg C/ha), and reference stocks had the highest stocks (range 391–904 Mg C/ha) of those with statistically significant differences between the three categories. Across all sites measured, stream restoration sites, referred to as treatment sites, had stocks (range 203–1028 Mg C/ha) similar to degraded condition floodplains but the largest range. When modeled under degraded conditions, four out of nine of the treatment sites had significantly higher OC stocks than predicted. Climate and geologic variables are most influential in predicting carbon stocks, and floodplains in the interior western USA have the highest carbon stocks. As the demand for carbon sequestration increases due to climate change, ecologically responsible floodplain restoration provides a significant opportunity for carbon storage. However, despite the statistically significant relationships we observed in this dataset, the variations within the data in relation to degraded/treatment/reference categories illustrate the uncertainties in quantifying the effects of restoration on floodplain carbon stocks.
Inference for covariate‐adjusted time‐dependent prognostic accuracy measures
Authors: Dey Rajib , Hanley J. A. , Saha‐Chaudhuri P.
Published: July 2023

Evaluating the prognostic performance of candidate markers for future disease onset or progression is one of the major goals in medical research. A marker's prognostic performance refers to how well it separates patients at the high or low risk of a future disease state. Often the discriminative performance of a marker is affected by the patient characteristics (covariates). Time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves that ignore the informativeness of the covariates will lead to biased estimates of the accuracy parameters. We propose a time‐dependent ROC curve that accounts for the informativeness of the covariates in the case of censored data. We propose inverse probability weighted (IPW) estimators for estimating the proposed accuracy parameters. We investigate the performance of the IPW estimators through simulation studies and real‐life data analysis.
Nerve‐Sparing Gynecologic Surgery Enabled by A Near‐Infrared Nerve‐Specific Fluorophore Using Existing Clinical Fluorescence Imaging Systems
Authors: Barth Connor W. , Rizvi Syed Zaki Husain , Masillati Anas M. , Chakraborty Samrat , Wang Lei G. , Montaño Antonio R. , Szafran Dani A. , Greer William S. , van den Berg Nynke S. , Sorger Jonathan , Rao Deepa A. , Alani Adam W.G. , Gibbs Summer L.
Published: July 2023

Patients undergoing gynecological procedures suffer from lasting side effects due to intraoperative nerve damage. Small, delicate nerves with complex and nonuniform branching patterns in the female pelvic neuroanatomy make nerve‐sparing efforts during standard gynecological procedures such as hysterectomy, cystectomy, and colorectal cancer resection difficult, and thus many patients are left with incontinence and sexual dysfunction. Herein, a near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent nerve‐specific contrast agent, LGW08‐35, that is spectrally compatible with clinical fluorescence guided surgery (FGS) systems is formulated and characterized for rapid implementation for nerve‐sparing gynecologic surgeries. The toxicology, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) of micelle formulated LGW08‐35 are examined, enabling the determination of the optimal imaging doses and time points, blood and tissue uptake parameters, and maximum tolerated dose (MTD). Application of the formulated fluorophore to imaging of female rat and swine pelvic neuroanatomy validates the continued clinical translation and use for real‐time identification of important nerves such as the femoral, sciatic, lumbar, iliac, and hypogastric nerves. Further development of LGW08‐35 for clinical use will unlock a valuable tool for surgeons in direct visualization of important nerves and contribute to the ongoing characterization of the female pelvic neuroanatomy to eliminate the debilitating side effects of nerve damage during gynecological procedures.
Injectable Hydrogels Including Magnetic Nanosheets for Multidisciplinary Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Magnetic Hyperthermia
Authors: Gong Jinyu , Hu Jinlong , Yan Xu , Xiang Luyao , Chen Sheng , Yang Huai , Chen Zichao , Hou Qingbing , Song Yonghong , Xu Yunjun , Liu Dongquan , Ji Chaofei , Qin Qin , Sun Haiyi , Peng Junbin , Cao Baoqiang , Lu Yang
Published: July 2023

Relapse and unresectability have become the main obstacle for further improving hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment effect. Currently, single therapy for HCC in clinical practice is limited by postoperative recurrence, intraoperative blood loss and poor patient outcomes. Multidisciplinary therapy has been recognized as the key to improving the long‐term survival rate for HCC. However, the clinical application of HCC synthetic therapy is restricted by single functional biomaterials. In this study, a magnetic nanocomposite hydrogel (CG‐IM) with iron oxide nanoparticle‐loaded mica nanosheets (Iron oxide nanoparticles@Mica, IM) is reported. This biocompatible magnetic hydrogel integrated high injectability, magnetocaloric property, mechanical robustness, wet adhesion, and hemostasis, leading to efficient HCC multidisciplinary therapies including postoperative tumor margin treatment and percutaneous locoregional ablation. After minimally invasive hepatectomy of HCC, the CG‐IM hydrogel can facilely seal the bleeding hepatic margin, followed by magnetic hyperthermia ablation to effectively prevent recurrence. In addition, CG‐IM hydrogel can inhibit unresectable HCC by magnetic hyperthermia through the percutaneous intervention under ultrasound guidance.
Real‐Time, In Situ Imaging of Macrophages via Phase‐Change Peptide Nanoemulsions
Authors: Kim Inhye , Elliott Jacob C. , Lawanprasert Atip , Wood Grace M. , Simon Julianna C. , Medina Scott H.
Published: July 2023

Macrophages are specialized phagocytes that play central roles in immunity and tissue repair. Their diverse functionalities have led to an evolution of new allogenic and autologous macrophage products. However, realizing the full therapeutic potential of these cell‐based therapies requires development of imaging technologies that can track immune cell migration within tissues in real‐time. Such innovations will not only inform treatment regimens and empower interpretation of therapeutic outcomes but also enable prediction and early intervention during adverse events. Here, phase‐changing nanoemulsion contrast agents are reported that permit real‐time, continuous, and high‐fidelity ultrasound imaging of macrophages in situ. Using a de novo designed peptide emulsifier, liquid perfluorocarbon nanoemulsions are prepared and show that rational control over interfacial peptide assembly affords formulations with tunable acoustic sensitivity, macrophage internalization, and in cellulo stability. Imaging experiments demonstrate that emulsion‐loaded macrophages can be readily visualized using standard diagnostic B‐mode and Doppler ultrasound modalities. This allows on‐demand and long‐term tracking of macrophages within porcine coronary arteries, as an exemplary model. The results demonstrate that this platform is poised to open new opportunities for non‐invasive, contrast‐enhanced imaging of cell‐based immunotherapies in tissues, while leveraging the low‐cost, portable, and safe nature of diagnostic ultrasound.
Glutathione‐Responsive Methotrexate Polymersomes for Potential Management of Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Mamnoon Babak , Moses Abraham S. , Sundaram Subisha , Raitmayr Constanze J. , Morgan Terry , Baldwin Maureen K. , Myatt Leslie , Taratula Oleh , Taratula Olena R.
Published: July 2023

The first‐line treatment for ectopic pregnancy (EP), the chemotherapeutic methotrexate (MTX), has a failure rate of more than 10%, which can lead to severe complications or death. Inadequate accumulation of administered MTX at the ectopic implantation site significantly contributes to therapeutic failure. This study reports the first glutathione‐responsive polymersomes for efficient delivery of MTX to the implantation site and its triggered release in placental cells. Fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging have confirmed that the developed polymersomes preferentially accumulate after systemic administration in the implantation site of pregnant mice at early gestational stages. The high concentrations of intracellular glutathione (GSH) reduce an incorporated disulfide bond within polymersomes upon internalization into placental cells, resulting in their disintegration and efficient drug release. Consequently, MTX delivered by polymersomes induces pregnancy demise in mice, as opposed to free MTX at the same dose regimen. To achieve the same therapeutic efficacy with free MTX, a sixfold increase in dosage is required. In addition, mice successfully conceive and birth healthy pups following a prior complete pregnancy demise induced by methotrexate polymersomes. Therefore, the developed MTX nanomedicine can potentially improve EP management and reduce associated mortality rates and related cost.
Extrinsic Interstitial Ions in Metal Halide Perovskites: A Review
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhang Meng , Hou Tian , Sun Xiaoran , Hao Xiaojing
Published: July 2023

Perovskite solar cells have rapidly developed as a promising technology for the next generation of low‐cost photovoltaics, receiving enormous attention from researchers and industries. Compared to traditional semiconducting materials, metal halide perovskite exhibits outstanding tolerance to extrinsic ions. At a certain range of doping concentration, the interstitial occupancy of extrinsic ions provides appealing benefits to the perovskite films, contributing to higher performance and stability of the devices. This review summarizes the research progress of interstitial ions for metal halide perovskite, providing insights into the mechanism and identification of interstitial doping of extrinsic ions, covering the benefits of interstitial ions in regulating crystal growth, inhibiting ion migration, and reducing defect density. Finally, based on the latest progress and findings, further topics and directions of research on interstitial ions in metal halide perovskite are proposed to advance the understanding of interstitial ions in perovskite and promote the development of perovskite photovoltaic technology.
An Outer Membrane‐Inspired Polymer Coating Protects and Endows Escherichia coli with Novel Functionalities
Authors: Belluati Andrea , Harley Iain , Lieberwirth Ingo , Bruns Nico
Published: July 2023

A bio‐inspired membrane made of Pluronic L‐121 is produced around Escherichia coli thanks to the simple co‐extrusion of bacteria and polymer vesicles. The block copolymer‐coated bacteria can withstand various harsh shocks, for example, temperature, pressure, osmolarity, and chemical agents. The polymer membrane also makes the bacteria resistant to enzymatic digestion and enables them to degrade toxic compounds, improving their performance as whole‐cell biocatalysts. Moreover, the polymer membrane acts as an anchor layer for the surface modification of the bacteria. Being decorated with α‐amylase or lysozyme, the cells are endowed with the ability to digest starch or self‐predatory bacteria are created. Thus, without any genetic engineering, the phenotype of encapsulated bacteria is changed as they become sturdier and gain novel metabolic functionalities.
Radiopaque and X‐ray‐Responsive Nanomedicine for Preventive Therapy of Radiation‐Induced Heart Disease
Authors: Yu Mingchuan , Xie Weichang , Tang Zhibo , Luo Jun , Liu Yu
Published: July 2023

Radiation‐induced heart disease (RIHD) is a common radiotherapy complication. Reducing radiation exposure and post‐irradiation antioxidant therapy are promising approaches. Here, a liquid metal‐based core–shell nanomedicine (LMN) composed of a gallium core and a multifunctional polymeric shell with radiopaque, X‐ray shielding, and X‐ray‐responsive antioxidation properties for preventive therapy of RIHD is developed. The liquid metal provides radiopaque properties to enhance X‐ray and computed tomography imaging and attenuate radiation to prevent primary myocardial damage. Under X‐ray radiation, cleavage of the diselenide bond on the polymeric shell results in the release of LMN and controlled antioxidation. In vitro and in vivo experiments have demonstrated that LMN significantly reduces myocardial injury and impaired cardiac function, stabilizes mitochondrial function, and inhibits myocardial fibrosis. This nanomedicine with radiographic contrast, radiation shielding, and responsive features provides a new strategy for the prevention of radiation‐related diseases.