bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Voriconazole Dosing Regimens Against Aspergillus Species and Candida Species in Pediatric Patients After Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation: A Theoretical Study Based on Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Analysis
Authors: Xie Mengyuan , Jiang Manxue , Qiu Hongyu , Rong Li , Kong Lingti
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to optimize the dosing regimens of voriconazole (VRC) for pediatric patients after hematopoietic cell transplantation with different cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 phenotypes and body weights, based on pharmacokinetic (PK)/pharmacodynamic (PD) analysis. The PK parameters of VRC were derived from previous literature. Combined with key factors affecting VRC, patients were categorized into 9 subgroups based on different CYP2C19 phenotypes (poor metabolizer/intermediate metabolizer, normal metabolizer, and rapid metabolizer/ultrarapid metabolizer) and typical body weights (15, 40, and 65 kg). Monte Carlo simulation was used to investigate dosing regimens for different groups. The area under the 24‐hour free drug concentration–time curve to the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) > 25 was used as the target value for effective treatment. The probability of target achievement and the cumulative fraction of response were determined on the basis of the assumed MICs and MICs distribution frequency of Aspergillus species and Candida species. When the MIC was ≤1 mg/L, 4 mg/kg every 12 hours was sufficient for optimal effects in groups 1‐3 and groups 5 and 6; however, 6 mg/kg every 12 hours was required for group 4, and 8 mg/kg every 12 hours was required for groups 7‐9. In empirical treatment, lower (2‐6 mg/kg every 12 hours) and higher (6‐12 mg/kg every 12 hours) dosing regimens were recommended for Candida spp. and Aspergillus spp., respectively. Our findings will assist in selecting appropriate dosing regimens of VRC for pediatric patients after hematopoietic cell transplantation with different CYP2C19 phenotypes and body weights. Clinically, it is better to continuously adjust the dosing on the basis of the therapeutic drug monitoring.
Educating dental students to provide compassionate age friendly care for older adults
Authors: Marchini Leonardo
Published: April 2023

As the world population ages, the need for age friendly care increases. In dentistry, age friendly care requires an appropriate comprehension of multiple factors that can be categorized in socio‐economic circumstances, systemic health problems, and oral health conditions. In addition to the understanding of these factors and its relationships among each other, the future dental workforce should also be aware of unconscious and pervasive societal stereotypical perception of older persons, aging, and being old, which results in ageism and ageist attitudes. Dental schools can play an important role on raising ageism awareness and combating ageism in healthcare, thus preparing the future of the dental workforce to provide compassionate age friendly care. This paper will discuss ageism in dental schools and learning strategies used to combat it and increase compassionate care delivery for older adults.
Effect of biosynthesized nanoselenium using Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae) leaf extracts against Eimeria papillata infection
Authors: Abdel‐Gaber Rewaida , Hawsah Maysar Abu , Al‐Shaebi Esam M. , Al‐Otaibi Tahani , Thagfan Felwa A. , Al‐Quraishy Saleh , Dkhil Mohamed A.
Published: April 2023

Coccidiosis is a protozoan parasitic disease affecting different animal species. Resistance has been reported for all available anticoccidial drugs. Recently, green synthesis of nanoparticles is considered a new therapeutic tool against this parasitic disease. The present work aimed to study the effect of biosynthesized nanoselenium from Azadirachta indica leaf extracts (BNS) against Eimeria papillata‐induced infection in mice. The phytochemical analysis of leaf extracts contained 33 phytochemical components. The BNS was spherical with ⁓68.12 nm in diameter and an absorption peak at 308 nm via UV‐spectra. The data showed that mice infected with E. papillata revealed the highest oocyst output on the 5th‐day post‐infection (p.i.). Infection also induced injury and inflammation of the mice jejunum. Treatment with BNS resulted in a 97.21% suppression for the oocyst output. The treated groups with BNS showed enhancement in feed intake as compared to the infected group. Histological examinations showed a significant reduction in the intracellular developmental Eimeria stages in the jejunal tissues of infected‐treated mice of about 24.86 ± 2.38 stages/10 villous crypt units. Moreover, there was a significant change in the morphometry for Eimeria stages after the treatment with BNS. Infection induced a disturbance in the level of carbohydrates and protein contents in the infected mice which enhanced after treatment with BNS. In addition, BNS counteracted the E. papillata‐induced loss of the total antioxidant capacity. Collectively, BNS is considered a promising anticoccidial and antioxidant effector and could be used for the treatment of coccidiosis.
Labour force participation of immigrant women in Canada: With a special focus on female immigrants from the Middle East and North Africa
Authors: Solati Fariba , Chowdhury Murshed , Rosado Fabiana
Published: April 2023

Using the Longitudinal Survey of Immigrants to Canada (LSIC) and the linked LSIC‐Longitudinal Immigration Database (IMDB), this study finds that of all immigrant women in Canada, those from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region have the lowest labour force participation rate. After controlling for various socioeconomic factors and employing logistic regressions on multiple rounds of the LSIC and LSIC‐IMDB datasets, this study claims that patriarchal gender roles may have survived for MENA women even after a few years of living in Canada, resulting in relatively low labour force participation.
Ultrasonographic evaluation of infant hips in the Pavlik harness compared to body‐worn commercial baby carriers
Authors: Siddicky Safeer , Eckels Jason , Rabenhorst Brien , Mannen Erin
Published: April 2023

While many factors contribute to development and subsequent correction of developmental hip dysplasia (DDH) in infants, hip positioning and muscle activity play a significant role. Lower‐limb restrictive extension positions, such as with swaddling, are detrimental for hip development, and some baby gear leads to reduced lower limb muscle activity. Yet how baby gear impacts hip position during wear remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to compare the Graf's alpha angle and femoral head coverage of healthy infants and infants with mild DDH (instability) in the Pavlik harness and baby carriers. We obtained coronal hip ultrasound images of 10 healthy full‐term infants (13.5 ± 3.4 weeks, 5F/5M) and three full‐term mild DDH infants (8.9 ± 4.0 weeks, 2F/1M) in three conditions: Pavlik harness, wide‐base baby carrier, and narrow‐base baby carrier. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare Graf's alpha angles and femoral head coverages across the conditions (p < 0.05), with post hoc pairwise tests (p < 0.0167). The Graf's alpha angle in the narrow‐base carrier was 6.9° lower than the Pavlik harness, while the wide‐base carrier was not different. Femoral head coverage was 10%–12% lower for the narrow‐base carrier. The three mild DDH infants exhibited lower Graf's alpha angles and femoral head coverage in all measurements, with the Graf's alpha angle in the narrow‐base carrier measuring 49.0°. This research demonstrated that wide‐base baby carriers held hips in a position that was not significantly different from the Pavlik harness, meaning that babywearing in a wide‐base carrier may have benefits for healthy hip development.
Galleria mellonella as an alternative in vivo model to study implant‐associated fungal infections
Authors: Mannala Gopala K. , Rupp Markus , Walter Nike , Scholz Konstantin J. , Simon Michaela , Riool Martijn , Alt Volker
Published: April 2023

Fungal implant‐associated bone infections are rare but difficult to treat and often associated with a poor outcome for patients. Candida species account for approximately 90% of all fungal infections. In vivo biofilm models play a major role to study biofilm development and potential new treatment options; however, there are only a very few in vivo models to study fungi‐associated biofilms. Furthermore, mammalian infection models are replaced more and more due to ethical restrictions with other alternative models in basic research. Recently, we developed an insect infection model with Galleria mellonella larvae to study biofilm‐associated infections with bacteria. Here, we further expanded the G. mellonella model to study in vivo fungal infections using Candida albicans and Candida krusei. We established a planktonic and biofilm‐implant model to test different antifungal medication with amphotericin B, fluconazole, and voriconazole against the two species and assessed the fungal biofilm‐load on the implant surface. Planktonic infection with C. albicans and C. krusei showed the killing of the G. mellonella larvae at 5 × 105 colony forming units (CFU). Treatment of larvae with antifungal compounds with amphotericin B and fluconazole showed significant survival improvement against planktonic C. albicans infection, but voriconazole had no effect. Titanium and stainless steel K‐wires were preincubated with C. albicans and implanted inside the larvae to induce biofilm infection on the implant surface. The survival analysis revealed significantly reduced survival of the larvae with Candida spp. infection compared to noninfected implants. The treatment with antifungal amphotericin B and fluconazole resulted in a slight and nonsignificant improvement survival of the larvae. The treatment with the antifungal compounds in the biofilm‐infection model was not as effective as in the planktonic infection model, which highlights the resistance of fungal biofilms to antifungal compounds like in bacterial biofilms. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed the formation of a fungal biofilm with hyphae and spores associated with larvae tissue on the implant surface. Thus, our study highlights the use of G. mellonella larvae as alternative in vivo model to study biofilm‐associated implant fungal infections and that fungal biofilms exhibit high resistance profiles comparable to bacterial biofilms. The model can be used in the future to test antifungal treatment options for fungal biofilm infections.
Survival and prognosis of surgical head and neck cancer patients aged 80 years and older
Authors: Sobhi Salar , Wormald Robert , Hollitt Stephanie , Flukes Stephanie
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Elderly patients (≥80 years of age) with head and neck cancer (HNC) can prove a management challenge due to concerns regarding their suitability for surgery. This study aims to describe the characteristics and outcomes of elderly patients undergoing HNC surgery.

Methods

A retrospective review of elderly patients undergoing HNC surgery was conducted. Demographics, comorbidities, tumor characteristics, surgical procedure type, postoperative complications, and disposition were reviewed. Overall survival (OS) in the elderly cohort was compared against younger patients (<80 years).

Results

A total of 595 patients were included, of whom 86 were aged >80 years (71% male; mean age 84.8, range 80.0–98.8 years). The overall complication rate was 43%. When compared with younger patients (n = 509), elderly patients had reduced OS (risk ratio: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.3–3.2), higher 90‐day mortality (8.1% vs. 2.3%, p = .005), and lower 5‐year survival (43.5% vs. 64.1%, p < .001). However, survival was comparable to age‐specific life expectancy. There was no difference in OS, 90‐day mortality, and 5‐year survival when comparing >85 (n = 33) and 80–85 (n = 53) age groups.

Conclusions

Chronological age alone should not negatively influence decision‐making in HNC surgery the elderly. With careful preoperative selection and optimization, surgery can be performed at acceptable risk with good outcomes in elderly patients.

Level of evidence

IV
A Commercial Nonbinding Surface Effectively Reduces Fibrinogen Adsorption but Does Not Prevent Platelet Adhesion to Fibrinogen
Authors: Boncler Magdalena
Published: April 2023

A commercial nonbinding surface effectively prevents protein adsorption; however, the platelet phenotype on this surface has yet to be defined. This study evaluates platelet adhesion and adsorption of several plasma/extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins to the nonbinding surface compared to other commonly used nontreated and high‐binding surfaces. Platelet adhesion to uncoated microplates and those coated with fibrinogen or collagen is quantified by colorimetric assay. The binding capacity of the examined surfaces for plasma/ECM proteins is evaluated by measuring the relative and absolute protein adsorption. Compared to other surfaces, the nonbinding surface effectively prevents platelet adsorption, i.e. by 61‐93% (Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay, ELISA), and reduces platelet adhesion, i.e. by 92%, when not coated with any protein. The nonbinding surface also decreases platelet deposition on collagen (up to 31%), but not fibrinogen. The nonbinding surface seems to be more of a low‐fouling than nonfouling material, as it is able to reduce fibrinogen adsorption but not prevent platelet adhesion to fibrinogen. This feature should be considered when using the nonbinding surface for in vitro platelet testing.
Multimodal Biomedical Implant with Plasmonic and Simulated Body Temperature Responses
Authors: Mingot Júlia , Benejam Nícolas , Víllora Gloria , Alemán Carlos , Armelin Elaine , Lanzalaco Sonia
Published: April 2023

This work presents a novel nanoparticle‐based thermosensor implant able to reveal the precise temperature variations along the polymer filaments, as it contracts and expands due to changes in the macroscale local temperature. The multimodal device is able to trace the position and the temperature of a polypropylene mesh, employed in abdominal hernia repair, by combining plasmon resonance and Raman spectroscopy with hydrogel responsive system. The novelty relies on the attachment of the biocompatible nanoparticles, based on gold stabilized by a chitosan‐shell, already charged with the Raman reporter (RaR) molecules, to the robust prosthesis, without the need of chemical linkers. The SERS enhanced effect observed is potentiated by the presence of a quite thick layer of the copolymer (poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)‐co‐poly(acrylamide)) hydrogel. At temperatures above the LCST of PNIPAAm‐co‐PAAm, the water molecules are expulsed and the hydrogel layer contracts, leaving the RaR molecules more accessible to the Raman source. In vitro studies with fibroblast cells reveal that the functionalized surgical mesh is biocompatible and no toxic substances are leached in the medium. The mesh sensor opens new frontiers to semi‐invasive diagnosis and infection prevention in hernia repair by using SERS spectroscopy. It also offers new possibilities to the functionalization of other healthcare products.
Contribution of galvanic coupling with TiN, TiAlN, and CrN to the corrosion of steel in neutral and acidic chloride solutions
Authors: Avcı Burçak , Kazmanlı Kürşat , Evren Burak , Ürgen Mustafa
Published: April 2023

The inherent defective morphology of the physical vapor deposition (PVD) hard coatings limits their corrosion protective ability. We examined the impact of nitride‐based PVD coatings, including TiN, TiAlN, and CrN deposited on inert substrates by cathodic arc PVD method (CA‐PVD), on the galvanic corrosion of carbon steel. Their contribution was evaluated by zero‐resistance ammeter (ZRA) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in 3.5 wt.% NaCl at pH 2 and 6, with and without aeration. The results indicated the prominent role of the coating type and the coupling environment on the generated galvanic currents. Immersion tests for the TiN‐, TiAlN‐, and CrN‐coated steel cross‐sections visually verified these results. The galvanic current contribution was distinct in environments where oxygen reduction is the dominant cathodic reaction. However, the layers' contribution to galvanic corrosion was minimal in deaerated acidic solutions, which is attributed to the high bonding strength of adsorbed intermediates to the coating surfaces.
Aggregation‐Induced Emission Macromolecular Materials for Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Zuo Yunfei , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Sun Jianwei , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: April 2023

Recent advancements in aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) macromolecular materials have brought their attention as potential antibacterial solutions, these materials offer new approaches to cure multidrug‐resistant infections and biofilms in bacterial infections as well as real‐time monitoring and specific targeting of bacteria. This review provides an overview of the three main categories of AIE macromolecular materials with antibacterial properties; namely AIE‐active polymers, AIEgen@polymer complexes, and clusterization‐triggered emission (CTE) based polymers. The mechanisms and applications of these materials in antibacterial treatment, wound care, and protective equipment are also discussed. The potential for future developments and application directions of AIE‐based antimicrobial materials are finally highlighted.
Scales for Antipsychotic‐Associated Movement Disorders: Systematic Review, Critique, and Recommendations
Authors: Martino Davide , Karnik Vikram , Bhidayasiri Roongroj , Hall Deborah A. , Hauser Robert A. , Macerollo Antonella , Pringsheim Tamara M. , Truong Daniel , Factor Stewart A. , Skorvanek Matej , Schrag Anette ,   Members of the IPMDS Rating Scales Review Committee
Published: April 2023

Background

Antipsychotic‐associated movement disorders remain common and disabling. Their screening and assessment are challenging due to clinical heterogeneity and different use of nomenclature between psychiatrists and neurologists.

Objective

An International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society subcommittee aimed to rate psychometric quality of severity and screening instruments for antipsychotic‐associated movement disorders.

Methods

Following the methodology adopted by previous International Parkinson and Movement Disorders Society subcommittee papers, instruments for antipsychotic‐associated movement disorders were reviewed, applying a classification as “recommended,” “recommended with caveats,” “suggested,” or “listed.”

Results

Our review identified 23 instruments. The highest grade of recommendation reached is “recommended with caveats,” assigned to seven severity rating instruments (Extrapyramidal Symptoms Rating Scale, Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale, Abnormal Involuntary Movements Scale, Drug‐Induced Extra‐Pyramidal Symptoms Scale, Maryland Psychiatric Research Centre involuntary movements scale, Simpson Angus Scale, and Matson Evaluation of Drug Side effects). Only three of these seven (Drug‐Induced Extra‐Pyramidal Symptoms Scale, Maryland Psychiatric Research Centre, Matson Evaluation of Drug Side effects) were also screening instruments. Their main caveats are insufficient demonstration of psychometric properties (internal consistency, skewing, responsiveness to change) and long duration of administration. Eight “suggested” instruments did not meet requirements for the “recommended” grade also because of insufficient psychometric validation. Other limitations shared by several instruments are lack of comprehensiveness in assessing the spectrum of antipsychotic‐associated movement disorders and ambiguous nomenclature.

Conclusions

The high number of instruments “recommended with caveats” does not support the need for developing new instruments for antipsychotic‐associated movement disorders. However, addressing the caveats with new psychometric studies and revising existing instruments to improve the clarity of their nomenclature are recommended next steps. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Novel research finds combined ED, PTSD treatment effective
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: April 2023

Based upon principles of cognitive processing therapy (CPT), one of the leading disorder providers in the country embarked on what officials are calling groundbreaking research to show the effectiveness of integrating trauma treatment with evidence‐based eating disorder treatments in residential programs.
Bill would prevent violence in HC, social service workplaces
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: April 2023

Health care is the most dangerous field of work due to workplace violence, a National Nurses United (NNU) press release stated. In nationwide surveys conducted by NNU, the nation's largest union of registered nurses (RNs), the majority of nurses (81.6%) reported having experienced at least one incident of workplace violence within the past year. NNU members said this is unacceptable and strongly support passage of the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act, officially introduced in Congress April 18 by Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D‐Wis.) and Rep. Joe Courtney (D‐Conn.).
A multi‐stage fusion framework to classify breast lesions using deep learning and radiomics features computed from four‐view mammograms
Authors: Jones Meredith A. , Sadeghipour Negar , Chen Xuxin , Islam Warid , Zheng Bin
Published: April 2023

Background

Developing computer aided diagnosis (CAD) schemes of mammograms to classify between malignant and benign breast lesions has attracted a lot of research attention over the last several decades. However, unlike radiologists who make diagnostic decisions based on the fusion of image features extracted from multi‐view mammograms, most CAD schemes are single‐view‐based schemes, which limit CAD performance and clinical utility.

Purpose

This study aims to develop and test a novel CAD framework that optimally fuses information extracted from ipsilateral views of bilateral mammograms using both deep transfer learning (DTL) and radiomics feature extraction methods.

Methods

An image dataset containing 353 benign and 611 malignant cases is assembled. Each case contains four images: the craniocaudal (CC) and mediolateral oblique (MLO) view of the left and right breast. First, we extract four matching regions of interest (ROIs) from images that surround centers of two suspicious lesion regions seen in CC and MLO views, as well as matching ROIs in the contralateral breasts. Next, the handcrafted radiomics (HCRs) features and VGG16 model‐generated automated features are extracted from each ROI resulting in eight feature vectors. Then, after reducing feature dimensionality and quantifying the bilateral and ipsilateral asymmetry of four ROIs to yield four new feature vectors, we test four fusion methods to build three support vector machine (SVM) classifiers by an optimal fusion of asymmetrical image features extracted from four view images.

Results

Using a 10‐fold cross‐validation method, results show that a SVM classifier trained using an optimal fusion of four view images yields the highest classification performance (AUC = 0.876 ± 0.031), which significantly outperforms SVM classifiers trained using one projection view alone, AUC = 0.817 ± 0.026 and 0.792 ± 0.026 for the CC and MLO view of bilateral mammograms, respectively (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The study demonstrates that the shift from single‐view CAD to four‐view CAD and the inclusion of both DTL and radiomics features significantly increases CAD performance in distinguishing between malignant and benign breast lesions.
A closed‐form multigrid smoothing factor for an additive Vanka‐type smoother applied to the Poisson equation
Authors: Greif Chen , He Yunhui
Published: April 2023

We consider an additive Vanka‐type smoother for the Poisson equation discretized by the standard finite difference centered scheme. Using local Fourier analysis, we derive analytical formulas for the optimal smoothing factors for vertex‐wise and element‐wise Vanka smoothers. In one dimension the element‐wise Vanka smoother is equivalent to the scaled mass operator obtained from the linear finite element method and in two dimensions the element‐wise Vanka smoother is equivalent to the scaled mass operator discretized by bilinear finite element method plus a scaled identity operator. Based on these findings, the mass matrix obtained from finite element method can be used as a smoother for the Poisson equation, and the resulting mass‐based relaxation scheme yields small smoothing factors in one, two, and three dimensions, while avoiding the need to compute an inverse of a matrix. Our analysis may help better understand the smoothing properties of additive Vanka approaches and develop fast solvers for numerical solutions of other partial differential equations.
Optimal control under nonconvexity: A generalized Hamiltonian approach
Authors: Chavas Jean‐Paul
Published: April 2023

This article extends the analysis of optimal control based on a generalized Hamiltonian which covers situations of nonconvexity. The approach offers several key advantages. First, by identifying a global solution to a constrained optimization problem, the generalized Hamiltonian approach solves the problem of distinguishing between a global optimum and the (possibly many) nonoptimal points satisfying the Pontryagyn principle under nonconvexity. Second, in our generalized approach, interpreting the slopes of the separating hypersurface as shadow prices of the states continues to hold. Third, we discuss how the generalized Hamiltonian approach can be used in solving dynamic optimization problems under nonconvexity.
Strontium‐doped mesoporous silica nanoparticles incorporated in chitosan/alginate biocomposite scaffolds for enhanced bone tissue regeneration
Authors: Yousefiasl Satar , Manoochehri Hamed , Sharifi Esmaeel
Published: April 2023

Critical‐sized bone damage resulting from traumas, fractures, and tumors, impairs the bone tissues' inherent capacity for self‐repair. Conventional therapies could be associated with infection and pain besides demanding additional surgery while being costly. These limitations highlight the paucity of potential unique treatment strategies such as bone tissue engineering. In this study, strontium‐doped mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Sr‐MSN) were successfully synthesized and incorporated into the chitosan/alginate scaffolds which were then freeze‐dried and cross‐linked using CaCl2. The physicochemical characteristics of the fabricated scaffolds containing various Sr‐MSN contents were investigated using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). The hydrolytic degradation of the scaffolds was decreased with the increase in the Sr‐MSN content while maintaining their water uptake capacity. All fabricated scaffolds showed biocompatibility and Sr‐MSN‐containing scaffolds showed significantly increased Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) cell viability compared to chitosan/alginate scaffold after 72 h. The osteogenic differentiation potential investigations via mineralization assay and alkaline phosphatase enzyme activity indicated that the chitosan/alginate scaffold containing 20% Sr‐MSN showed the highest osteogenic differentiation capacity. Overall, bionanocomposite Cs/Alg/Sr‐MSN scaffolds integrated with desired physicochemical characteristics, biocompatibility, osteogenic differentiation capacity, and drug delivery potential show promising properties for attaining ideal results for bone repair and regeneration applications.
Healable and degradable bifunctional intrinsic polymers via integration of hierarchical hydrogen bonding groups and polycaprolactone segments
Authors: Chen Dongxiang , Luo Yang , Song Yan , Wang Wencai , Li Guo Liang
Published: April 2023

The development of a single polymer chain with the dual functions of self‐healing and degradation is challenging. Herein, we report the synthesis of self‐healing and degradable polymers (SDP) via the integration of hierarchical hydrogen bonding groups and degradable polycaprolactone (PCL) segments. The dynamic reconstruction of hierarchical hydrogen bonding endowed the as‐prepared polymers with excellent self‐healing properties. The degradation properties were regulated via the proportion of PCL in the soft segments. The incorporation of PCL segments resulted in better degradability and improved the tensile strength of the polymer from 9.2 to 28.3 MPa. The as‐prepared polymers could recover their mechanical properties after self‐healing. The temperature‐dependent Fourier‐transform infrared spectra (FT‐IR) indicated that the hierarchical hydrogen bonding was capable of dissociation and re‐association with a variation in the temperature. The as‐synthesized sustainable polymers, which exhibit self‐healing properties and degradability, are expected to be useful in future energy and environmental applications.
Effects of polymethacrylimide foam reinforced aluminum honeycomb sandwich under quasi‐static compression
Authors: Song Shijun , Xiong Chao , Yin Junhui , Cui Kaibo , Sun Haitao , Han Chao , Huang Bowen
Published: April 2023

In this study, aluminum honeycomb cells were filled with polymethacrylimide (PMI) foam of high strength and stiffness, and carbon fiber reinforced composite (CFRC) skins were added to create a composite sandwich structure. Nine types of specimens with varying cell node spacing and foam density were constructed, and stiffness equations were derived. To compare the performances of aluminum honeycomb and PMI foam sandwich structures, their compressive responses were examined using edgewise and flatwise compression tests. Moreover, the failure was analyzed using finite element methods (FEM). Analytical and numerical models were used to investigate the size effects of rib width, rib angle, and node spacing.
How to assess the electrical quality of solar cell interconnection in shingle solar modules
Authors: Weber Julian , Roessler Torsten
Published: April 2023

This work deals with the resistance induced by interconnecting shingle solar cells by means of an electrically conductive adhesive (ECA), which is labeled Rint throughout the work. A new approach to measure Rint directly from shingle joints of actual strings is presented and evaluated. For non‐laminated strings and two different ECAs that are applied as a continuous line on shingles with an edge length of 158.75 mm, similar interconnection resistance Rint ≈ 2.5 mΩ is found. In a full‐size shingle module, such an interconnection resistance would result in a cell‐to‐module loss of around ΔPMPP = −0.8%. Another aspect of the present work is to increase the awareness that in case Rint is unknown, it is not trivial to assess the electrical interconnection quality (of different ECAs, different amounts of the same ECA, etc.). It is demonstrated experimentally that the string/module fill factor can be highly sensitive to current mismatch and is thus not an ideal representative of Rint. The power at maximum power point PMPP tends to indicate Rint differences even less clearly. By simulating virtual strings from a pool of slightly varying shingle I–V curves, it is shown that a more suitable representative of Rint is a quantity that can be derived from the string's/module's dark I–V curve.
Association of patent ductus arteriosus with extubation failure among preterm infants
Authors: Gupta Dhruv , Greenberg Rachel G. , Natarajan Girija , Jani Sanket , Sharma Amit , Cotten Michael , Thomas Ronald , Chawla Sanjay
Published: April 2023

Background

Mechanical ventilation is associated with mortality/morbidities in preterm infants. Nearly a third of these infants fail extubation, and this may increase morbidities.

Objective

To evaluate the association of moderate to large symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) with failure of extubation among preterm infants.

Methods

This was a retrospective study on preterm infants (birth weight <1250 g and gestational age ≥23 weeks) born between January 2009 and December 2016, who were mechanically ventilated and extubated within the first 60 days of age.

Results

Three hundred and sixty infants were evaluated, of these, 26% failed, and 74% succeeded in the initial extubation attempt. On adjusted analysis, symptomatic PDA was associated with an increased risk of extubation failure.

Conclusion

The presence of symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus was associated with extubation failure. Further investigations are needed to establish whether there is a causal relationship between PDA and extubation failure and whether proactive screening for presence of PDA and treatment of the same, before extubation among these infants, improves chances of successful extubation and cardiorespiratory outcomes.
Accident consequence assessment of benzene leakage from storage tank in a chemical park in Bengbu City, China
Authors: Zhou Mi , Xu Chao , Xu Xiaoguang , Li Xi
Published: April 2023

Benzene is widely used in chemical industries and has a high potential to cause damage. The release of benzene from storage tanks can generate threats to workers, facilities, and the environment. The effects and consequences of benzene release from a storage tank during the dry and rainy seasons were investigated with the Areal Locations of Hazardous Atmospheres (ALOHA) software program. Risk distributions were obtained through threat zones classified by red, orange, and yellow colors. The results showed that the maximum hazard areas related to benzene vapor cloud and flammability in rainy seasons were greater than those in the dry seasons. There was no significant difference in the consequences of the thermal radiation from pool fire and the Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion (BLEVE) scenario in both the rainy and dry seasons. The maximum threat zones were determined to be 2200 and 305 m for the toxic benzene vapor cloud and the flammable area, respectively. The consequences of the pool fire and BLEVE scenario of benzene were at a distance of 101 and 3600 m from the storage tank, respectively. This study is expected to play an important role for decision‐makers in preventing benzene‐related accident risks and to reducing loss.
Effect of GaN/AlGaN Buffer Thickness on the Electrothermal Performance of AlGaN/GaN High Electron Mobility Transistors on Engineered Substrates
Authors: Tadjer Marko J. , Waltereit Patrick , Kirste Lutz , Müller Stefan , Lundh James Spencer , Jacobs Alan G. , Koehler Andrew D. , Komarov Pavel , Raad Peter , Gaskins John , Hopkins Patrick , Odnoblyudov Vlad , Basceri Cem , Anderson Travis J. , Hobart Karl D.
Published: April 2023

AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors on QST engineered substrates are grown with different GaN/AlGaN buffer layer thickness. The as‐grown heterostructures are evaluated for their structural quality via atomic force microscopy, high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and steady‐state thermoreflectance. Transistor devices are fabricated and evaluated via DC and pulsed electrical techniques, as well as thermoreflectance imaging. It is reported that buffer layer thickness of at least 10 μm can result in lateral high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) with simultaneously high GaN quality, low stress, good DC electrical performance, low current collapse, and low thermal resistance.
Electrochemical Noise Measurements on Titanium Regarding Implant Applications
Authors: Greul Andreas , Kleber Christoph , von See Constantin , Hassel Achim Walter
Published: April 2023

The suitability of electrochemical noise measurements to gather information on the corrosion behavior of titanium implants is explored. Rod‐shaped titanium samples have been immersed in different types of electrolytes, and the generated electrochemical noise is evaluated. The electrolytes include simulated body fluids, namely phosphate‐buffered saline and artificial saliva. Different data evaluation methods have been explored. The evaluation of the time‐domain data and further statistical methods shows promising results. Noise resistance values ranging from 0.09 MΩ for 3.5 wt% H2SO4 solution up to 0.45 MΩ for simulated body fluids have been recorded. It is possible to determine the dominating corrosion modes on the sample surface and reach results in alignment with expectations and established knowledge on corrosion mechanisms.
Robotic system for magnetic resonance imaging‐guided high‐intensity focus ultrasound application: Feasibility of breast fibroadenoma treatment
Authors: Liu Depeng , Shen Guofeng , Tang Na , Lu Huaxin , Wei Bo
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This paper presents a high‐intensity focus ultrasound (HIFU) robotic system for treating breast fibroadenoma under the guidance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Based on the thermal and mechanical effects of ultrasound, the system aims to deliver ultrasound energy to a target precisely without damaging the normal tissue. The temperature elevation can be monitored in real time by MRI, and the treatment plan can be adjusted during the procedure. The requirements, design specifications, control system and registration of the robotic system are specified.

Methods

The robotic system was designed with a 3 degrees of freedom manipulator with limit switches and encoders, a customised MRI‐compatible breast coil, a water bladder with sets of breast‐conforming brackets, and a probe capable of generating ultrasound. Twenty volunteers were recruited for this study, and their data were analysed to provide more precise data for the design. The accuracy of the robot was evaluated in free space using a coordinate measuring machine, phantom and ex vivo porcine tissue in MRI room. The study also verified the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) of the MRI with the effect of the robotic system.

Results

The research findings revealed that the manipulator exhibited a translational precision of 0.10 ± 0.14 mm, a rotational fidelity around the X direction of 0.11 ± 0.09°, and an oscillatory exactness around the Y direction of 0.10 ± 0.08°. The investigation of positioning accuracy demonstrated that the robot's error in free space was 0.26 ± 0.07 mm. When subjected to MRI room with agar‐silica phantom and ex vivo porcine tissue, the positioning accuracy amounted to 1.11 ± 0.47 mm and 1.57 ± 0.52 mm. In the presence of the robotic system, the SNR of the MRI experienced a 4.2% reduction, which had a negligible impact on image quality.

Conclusions

The conducted experiments validate the efficacy of the proposed MRI‐guided HIFU robotic system in executing agar‐silica phantom and ex vivo porcine tissue investigations with adequate positioning accuracy. Consequently, this system exhibits certain feasibility for the treatment of breast fibroadenomas.
Synthesis of Free‐Standing Pd‐Ni‐P Metallic Glass Nanoparticles with Durable Medium‐Range Ordered Structure for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Properties
Authors: Fu Shu , Chen Guo‐Xing , Guo Hu , Liu Sinan , Yan Mengyang , Lou Yu , Ying Huiqiang , Yao Zhongzheng , Ren Yang , Jiang Wei , Zhu He , Hahn Horst , Feng Tao , Lan Si
Published: April 2023

Topologically disordered metallic glass nanoparticles (MGNPs) with highly active and tailorable surface chemistries have immense potential for functional uses. The synthesis of free‐standing MGNPs is crucial and intensively pursued because their activity strongly depends on their exposed surfaces. Herein, a novel laser‐evaporated inert‐gas condensation method is designed and successfully developed for synthesizing free‐standing MGNPs without substrates or capping agents, which is implemented via pulse laser‐induced atomic vapor deposition under an inert helium atmosphere. In this way, the metallic atoms vaporized from the targets collide with helium atoms and then condense into short‐range‐order (SRO) clusters, which mutually assemble to form the MGNPs. Using this method, free‐standing Pd40Ni40P20 MGNPs with a spherical morphology are synthesized, which demonstrates satisfactory electrocatalytic activity and durability in oxygen reduction reactions. Moreover, local structure investigations using synchrotron pair distribution function techniques reveal the transformation of SRO cluster connection motifs of the MGNPs from face‐sharing to edge‐sharing modes during cyclic voltammetry cycles, which enhances the electrochemical stability by blocking crystallization. This approach provides a general strategy for preparing free‐standing MGNPs with high surface activities, which may have widespread functional applications.
Screening of Sintering Aids for Oxide Ceramics: A Case of NASICON Electrolyte
Authors: Sun Zheng , Li Yang , Liu Mingquan , Jin Haibo , Zhao Yongjie
Published: April 2023

In this work, an efficient screening method to select appropriate sintering aids for a wide range of oxide material systems is developed. Consequently, Na2B4O7, NaF, and CuO are selected as sintering aids for sodium super ionic conductor (NASICON)‐type Na3Zr2Si2PO12 ceramic to verify the feasibility of the as‐proposed method. As evidenced by the results, the sinterability and densification of ceramic matrix are apparently improved. Specifically, Na3Zr2Si2PO12‐7%Na2B4O7, Na3Zr2Si2PO12‐3%NaF, and Na3Zr2Si2PO12‐3%CuO endow much higher room temperature ionic conductivity of 1.03 × 10−3, 1.61 × 10−3, and 1.63 × 10−3 S cm−1, respectively, in comparison with the pristine (7.23 × 10−4 S cm−1). The underlying mechanism for the enhanced performance is also discussed. The symmetric sodium cells assembled with sintering aids modified Na3Zr2Si2PO12 ceramic electrolyte exhibit ultra‐stable metallic Na plating/stripping at room temperature. Moreover, solid‐state sodium batteries paired with Na3V1.5Cr0.5(PO4)3 cathode active material and modified Na3Zr2Si2PO12 ceramic electrolyte demonstrate superior cycling stability and excellent rate capability. Furthermore, an as‐developed strategy can be universally extended to synthesize high‐performance oxide ceramics.
Interfacial Interaction of Multifunctional GQDs Reinforcing Polymer Electrolytes For All‐Solid‐State Li Battery
Authors: Liu Huaxin , Xu Laiqiang , Tu Hanyu , Luo Zheng , Zhu Fangjun , Deng Wentao , Zou Guoqiang , Hou Hongshuai , Ji Xiaobo
Published: April 2023

Solid‐state polymer electrolytes are highly anticipated for next generation lithium ion batteries with enhanced safety and energy density. However, a major disadvantage of polymer electrolytes is their low ionic conductivity at room temperature. In order to enhance the ionic conductivity, here, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are employed to improve the poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) based electrolyte. Owing to the increased amorphous areas of PEO and mobility of Li+, GQDs modified composite polymer electrolytes achieved high ionic conductivity and favorable lithium ion transference numbers. Significantly, the abundant hydroxyl groups and amino groups originated from GQDs can serve as Lewis base sites and interact with lithium ions, thus promoting the dissociation of lithium salts and providing more ion pathways. Moreover, lithium dendrite is suppressed, associated with high transference number, enhanced mechanical properties and steady interface stability. It is further observed that all solid‐state lithium batteries assembled with GQDs modified composite polymer electrolytes display excellent rate performance and cycling stability.
Double Riveting and Steric Hindrance Strategy for Ultrahigh‐Loading Atomically Dispersed Iron Catalysts Toward Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Zhu Ying , Gao Yifan , Gao Lesen , Gao Xia , Jiang Peng , Cheng Yuanhui
Published: April 2023

Atomically dispersed iron on nitrogen doped carbon displays high intrinsic activity toward oxygen reduction reaction, and has been identified as an attractive candidate to precious platinum catalysts. However, the loading of atomic iron sites is generally limited to below 4 wt% due to the undesired formation of iron‐related particles at higher contents. Herein, this work overcomes this limit by a double riveting and steric hindrance strategy to achieve monodispersed iron with a high‐loading of 12.8 wt%. Systematic study reveals that chemical riveting of atomic iron in ZIF‐8 framework, chelation of Fe ions with interconfined 1,4‐phenylenebisboronic, and physical hindrance are essential to obtain high‐loading monodispersed Fe moieties. Resultantly, designed Fe‐N‐C‐PDBA exhibits superior catalytic activity and excellent stability over commercial platinum catalysts toward oxygen reduction reaction in both half‐cells and zinc‐air fuel cells (ZAFCs). This provides an avenue for developing high‐loading single‐atom catalysts (SACs) for energy devices.
Blockchain‐based internet of vehicles (BIoV): A systematic review of surveys and reviews
Authors: Hemmati Atefeh , Zarei Mani , Souri Alireza
Published: April 2023

The Internet of vehicles (IoV) has appeared as an effective method of obtaining an intelligent transportation system able to deliver various innovative solutions and enable several applications as a replacement for vehicular ad‐hoc networks (VANETs). To help IoV contexts, enormous quantities of information are created and transmitted between various communication components wirelessly across multiple channels, which may entice attackers and put the network at risk. Security is one of the vital concerns and critical issues in VANETs and IoV networks. Blockchain is employed to create a distributed and secure IoV to overcome some centralized concerns and enhance the network architecture. This article presents a systematic and detailed review by selecting 28 review articles from 2018 to 2022 on blockchain‐based IoV (BIoV). We investigate the latest review and survey articles regarding their aspects, contributions, findings, limitations, and strong points to address unsolved problems of BIoV. In this article, the review/survey articles are systematically reviewed to resolve taxonomy aspects intended for BIoV. We provide a new taxonomy and discuss security concerns, open issues, and future directions so that researchers in this field can quickly and easily access recent content and do not need to read numerous review articles.
Research on Temperature Field of Wheat Grain Piles in Underground Granary
Authors: Zhang Xiangxiang , Zhang Hao , Meng Qingting
Published: April 2023

To investigate the temperature change in grain piles during underground grain storage, this study considers the wheat as the research object, The method of combining numerical simulation and small chamber test is adopted to study the changes in the temperature field in the experimental warehouse during natural storage conditions. Then, based on the numerical simulation software COMSOL is used to simulate and analyze the influence of different storage time, different covering soil depth, and different porosity on the temperature field of the grain pile in the warehouse. The results show that: during natural storage conditions, the temperature in the test warehouse is obviously stratified; under different initial grain pile temperature conditions, the difference between the initial grain temperature and ground temperature affects the change range of the temperature of the grain pile in the warehouse; when the temperature is 0.5, the change of the grain pile in the warehouse is the largest, which is 0.52 °C. When the porosity is 0.3, the temperature of the grain pile in the warehouse changes the smallest, which is 0.48 °C. The microenvironment changes in the warehouse under complex conditions can be analyzed in the follow‐up, and further formulations for safe grain storage can be made effective.
Can pet exposure reduce childhood food allergies?
Authors: Mills Georgina
Published: April 2023

Georgina Mills discusses new research that explores the link between fetal and early childhood exposure to pets and the risk of developing a food allergy.