bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trapping Halogen Anions in Cationic Viologen Porous Organic Polymers for Highly Cycling‐Stable Cathode Materials
Authors: Wang Zhaolei , Qi Qiaoyan , Jin Weize , Zhao Xin , Huang Xiaoyu , Li Yongjun
Published: July 2023

Halogens, especially Br2 and I2, as cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries exhibit high energy density with low cost, but poor cycling performance due to their high solubility in electrolyte solution. Herein, viologen‐based cationic porous organic polymers (TpVXs, X = Cl, Br, or I) with abundant pores and ionic redox‐active moieties are designed to immobilize halogen anions stoichiometrically. TpVBr and TpVI electrodes exhibit high initial specific capacity (116 and 132 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C) and high average discharge voltage (≈3.0 V) without any host materials. Notably, benefiting from the porous and ionic structure, TpVBr and TpVI present excellent long‐term cycling stability (86% and 98% capacity retention after 600 cycles at 0.5 C), which are far superior to those of the state‐of‐the‐art halogen electrodes. In addition, the charge storage mechanism is investigated by in situ Raman and ex situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Light‐Driven Spatiotemporal Pickering Emulsion Droplet Manipulation Enabled by Plasmonic Hybrid Microgels
Authors: Guan Xin , Cheng Guangyao , Ho Yi‐Ping , Binks Bernard P. , Ngai To
Published: July 2023

The past decades have witnessed the development of various stimuli‐responsive materials with tailored functionalities, enabling droplet manipulation through external force fields. Among different strategies, light exhibits excellent flexibility for contactless control of droplets, particularly in three‐dimensional space. Here, we present a facile synthesis of plasmonic hybrid microgels based on the electrostatic heterocoagulation between cationic microgels and anionic Au nanoparticles. The hybrid microgels are effective stabilizers of oil‐in‐water Pickering emulsions. In addition, the laser irradiation on Au nanoparticles creats a “cascade effect” to thermally responsive microgels, which triggers a change in microgel wettability, resulting in microgel desorption and emulsion destabilization. More importantly, the localized heating generated by a focused laser induces the generation of a vapor bubble inside oil droplets, leading to the formation of a novel air‐in‐oil‐in‐water (A/O/W) emulsion. These A/O/W droplets are able to mimic natural microswimmers in an aqueous environment by tracking the motion of a laser spot, thus achieving on‐demand droplet merging and chemical communication between isolated droplets. Such proposed systems are expected to extend the applications of microgel‐stabilized Pickering emulsions for substance transport, programmed release and controlled catalytic reactions.
Neighboring Platinum Atomic Sites Activate Platinum–Cobalt Nanoclusters as High‐Performance ORR/OER/HER Electrocatalysts
Authors: Chen Wenxia , Zhu Xingwang , Wei Wei , Chen Haoran , Dong Tianhao , Wang Rui , Liu Meng , (Ken) Ostrikov Kostya , Peng Peng , Zang Shuang‐Quan
Published: July 2023

The rational design of efficient and multifunctional electrocatalysts for energy conversion devices is one of the major challenges for clean and renewable energy transition. Herein, the local electronic structure of cobalt–platinum nanoclusters is regulated by adjacent platinum atomic site encapsulated in N‐doped hollow carbon nanotubes (PtSA–PtCo NCs/N–CNTs) by pyrolysis of melamine‐orientation‐induced zeolite imidazole metal–organic frameworks (ZIF‐67) with thimbleful platinum doping. The introduction of melamine can reactivate adjacent carbon atoms and initiate the oriented growth of nitrogen‐doped carbon nanotubes. The systematic analysis suggests the significant role of thimbleful neighboring low‐coordinated Pt─N2 in altering the localized electronic structure of PtCo nanoclusters. The optimized PtSA–PtCo NCs/N–CNTs‐900 exhibit excellent hydrogen evolution reaction (HER)/oxygen evolution reaction (OER)/oxygen reduction reaction (ORR)/ catalytic performance reaching the current density of 10 mA cm−2 in 1 m KOH under the low 47 (HER) and 252 mV (OER) overpotentials, and a high half‐wave potential of 0.86 and 0.89 V (ORR) in 0.1 m KOH and 0.1 m HClO4, respectively. Remarkably, the PtSA–PtCo NC/N–CNT‐900 also presents outstanding catalytic performances toward water splitting and rechargeable Zn–air batteries. The theoretical calculations reveal that optimal regulation of the electronic structure of PtCo nanoclusters by thimbleful neighboring Pt atomic reduces the reaction energy barrier in electrochemical process, facilitating the ORR/OER/HER performance.
Recent Progress of Transition Metal Compounds as Electrocatalysts for Electrocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Yu Yongren , Wang Tiantian , Zhang Yue , You Junhua , Hu Fang , Zhang Hangzhou
Published: July 2023

Hydrogen has enormous commercial potential as a secondary energy source because of its high calorific value, clean combustion byproducts, and multiple production methods. Electrocatalytic water splitting is a viable alternative to the conventional methane steam reforming technique, as it operates under mild conditions, produces high‐quality hydrogen, and has a sustainable production process that requires less energy. Electrocatalysts composed of precious metals like Pt, Au, Ru, and Ag are commonly used in the investigation of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Nevertheless, their limited availability and expensive cost restrict practical use. In contrast, electrocatalysts that do not contain precious metals are readily available, cost‐effective, environmentally friendly, and possess electrocatalytic performance equal to that of noble metals. However, considerable research effort must be devoted to create cost‐effective and high‐performing catalysts. This article provides a comprehensive examination of the reaction mechanism involved in electrocatalytic water splitting in both acidic and basic environments. Additionally, recent breakthroughs in catalysts for both the hydrogen evolution and oxygen evolution reactions are also discussed. The structure‐activity relationship of the catalyst was deep‐going discussed, together with the prospects of current obstacles and potential for electrocatalytic water splitting, aiming at provide valuable perspectives for the advancement of economical and efficient electrocatalysts on an industrial scale.
Energy Application of Graphene Based Membrane: Hydrogen Separation
Authors: Sohail Ahmad Muhammad , Inomata Yusuke , Kida Tetsuya
Published: July 2023

Hydrogen gas (H2) is a viable energy carrier that has the potential to replace the traditional fossil fuels and contribute to achieving zero net emissions, making it an attractive option for a hydrogen‐based society. However, current H2 purification technologies are often limited by high energy consumption, and as a result, there is a growing demand for alternative techniques that offer higher H2 purity and energy efficiency. Membrane separation has emerged as a promising approach for obtaining high‐purity H2 gas with low energy consumption. Nevertheless, despite years of development, commercial polymeric membranes have limited performance, prompting researchers to explore alternative materials. In this context, carbon‐based membranes, specifically graphene‐based nanomaterials, have gained significant attention as potential membrane materials due to their unique properties. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of carbon‐based membranes for H2 gas separation, fabrication of the membrane, and its characterization, including their advantages and limitations. We also explore the current technological challenges and suggest insights into future research directions, highlighting potential ways to improve graphene‐based membranes performance for H2 separations.
Zeolite addition in microalgae Chlorella sp. for treatment of bacteria contaminated vinasse
Authors: Budianto Gregorius Prima Indra , Wibowo Yari Mukti , Hadiyanto Hadiyanto , Widayat Widayat
Published: July 2023

Chlorella pyrenoidosa has been grown in artificial vinasse digestate. The method being used is intended to gather data on kinetic parameters that govern the performance of C. pyrenoidosa cultivated in a medium containing bacterial components. This condition was developed by introducing 1000 μL of Bacillus cereus to the medium (5 ppm of vinasse: 15 ppm of NaHCO3 = 3:2), which was subsequently mixed with C. pyrenoidosa culture at a 1:1 v/v ratio. The cultivation was carried out in batch mode for 15 days. The photosynthesis process of C. pyrenoidosa was conducted in 14 h and supported by 2 mL L−1 Guillard, which was given every 5 days. The study additionally investigated how different amounts of Zeolite (30, 60, and 90 gL−1) affected the kinetic parameters of microalgae grown in artificial vinasse digestate. This study demonstrated that the utilization of artificial vinasse digestate as a growing medium for C. pyrenoidosa resulted in growth limitation symptoms of microalgae, as a consequence of unfavorable interaction between C. pyrenoidosa and bacteria that already existed in the medium. This is indicated by low values of growth kinetics parameters, including specific growth rate (0.0259 d−1) and biomass productivity (0.51774 gL−1d−1) as compared to the reactor without bacteria in the medium. Therefore, adding a certain quantity of Zeolite to the reactor is a promising alternative for mitigating the negative effects of bacterial presence. With the addition of 90 g L−1 of Zeolite to the reactor, the specific growth rate of C. pyrenoidosa increases by 71%, indicating an appropriate growth. In addition, the total yield of PHB formation and the Melanoidin degradation efficacy of this reactor improved by 70% and 98%, respectively.
Mesalazine granules promote disease clearance in patients with mild‐to‐moderate ulcerative colitis
Authors: Kruis Wolfgang , Meszaros Silke , Wehrum Sarah , Mueller Ralph , Greinwald Roland , Nacak Tanju
Published: July 2023

Background

Over the past decade, treatment targets for ulcerative colitis (UC) have become more stringent, incorporating multiple parameters. Recently, the concept of ‘disease clearance’—defined as combined clinical, endoscopic, and histological remission—has been proposed as an ultimate endpoint in treating UC.

Objective

To determine the rates of disease clearance in patients with mild‐to‐moderate UC treated with different doses of mesalazine granules as induction therapy.

Methods

In a post hoc analysis, data were pooled from four randomised, active‐controlled, phase 3 clinical trials in patients with mild‐to‐moderate UC receiving 8‐week induction therapy with mesalazine granules at daily doses of 1.5, 3.0 or 4.5 g. Rates of clinical, endoscopic, and histological remission were determined using stringent criteria and used to calculate rates of the composite endpoints of clinical plus endoscopic remission, endoscopic plus histological remission, and disease clearance (clinical plus endoscopic plus histological remission).

Results

A total of 860 patients were included in the analysis. Among the total population, 20.0% achieved disease clearance with mesalazine granules: 13.1% in patients receiving 1.5 g mesalazine granules/day, 21.8% in those receiving 3.0 g/day and 18.9% in those receiving 4.5 g/day. Among patients with moderate UC, 16.8% achieved disease clearance: 7.1% with 1.5 g/day, 18.8% with 3.0 g/day and 16.2% with 4.5 g/day.

Conclusion

Disease clearance, proposed to be predictive of improved long‐term outcomes, can be achieved in a clinically meaningful proportion of mild‐to‐moderate UC patients treated with mesalazine granules. A daily dose of 3.0 g appears optimal to reach this target.
Multiple infections of zoonotic pathogens in wild Brandt's voles (Lasiopodomys brandtii)
Authors: Guo Yongman , Li Zhengrun , Dong Shike , Si Xiaoyan , Ta Na , Liang Hanwei , Xu Lei
Published: July 2023

Background

The frequent interactions of rodents with humans make them a common source of zoonotic infections. Brandt's vole is the dominant rodent species of the typical steppe in Inner Mongolia, and it is also an important pest in grassland.

Objectives:

To obtain an initial unbiased measure of the microbial diversity and abundance in the blood and intestinal tracts and to detect the pathogens carried by wild Brandt's voles in Hulun Buir, Inner Mongolia.

Methods

Twenty wild adult Brandt's voles were trapped using live cages, and 12 intestinal samples were collected for metagenomic analysis and 8 blood samples were collected for meta‐transcriptomic analysis. We compared the sequencing data with pathogenic microbiota databases to analyse the phylogenetic characteristics of zoonotic pathogens carried by wild voles.

Results

A total of 122 phyla, 79 classes, 168 orders, 382 families and 1693 genera of bacteria and a total of 32 families of DNA and RNA viruses in Brandt's voles were characterized. We found that each sample carried more than 10 pathogens, whereas some pathogens that were low in abundance were still at risk of transmission to humans.

Conclusion

This study improves our understanding of the viral and bacterial diversity in wild Brandt's voles and highlights the multiple viral and bacterial pathogens carried by this rodent. These findings may serve as a basis for developing strategies targeting rodent population control in Hulun Buir and provide a better approach to the surveillance of pathogenic microorganisms in wildlife.
Light Fixtures Position Detection Using a Camera
Authors: Leischner Vojtěch
Published: July 2023

Interdisciplinary research combines computer vision with stage light design to automatically detect light fixtures’ positions to create light animations. Multiple programmable light fixtures are often used in theaters, the event industry, and interactive installations. When creating complex animations such as a wave traveling from one side to the other through multiple light fixtures array, all lights’ positions must be known beforehand. Traditionally the position of the light is marked in the technical plan. However, technicians make mistakes during the installation and sometimes install the light in a different position. In such a case, time-consuming troubleshooting is needed to determine which light is misplaced and either correct the position in the software or manually move the light to the correct position. Our system saves time during installation and produces a light id and position pairs that users can use in various lighting control software. As a result, users can improvise and change the light positions more intuitively without needing a technical plan. Our system saves installation costs and enables rapid prototyping of light shows to create previously impossible organic designs. We verified the system in a controlled experiment and measured the influence of camera resolution on accuracy.
Assessing GAN-Based Generative Modeling on Skin Lesions Images
Authors: Carrasco Limeros Sandra , Majchrowska Sylwia , Zoubi Mohamad Khir , Rosén Anna , Suvilehto Juulia , Sjöblom Lisa , Kjellberg Magnus
Published: July 2023

We explored unconditional and conditional Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) in centralized and decentralized settings. The centralized setting imitates studies on large but highly unbalanced skin lesion dataset, while the decentralized one simulates a more realistic hospital scenario with three institutions. We evaluated models’ performance in terms of fidelity, diversity, speed of training, and predictive ability of classifiers trained on the generated synthetic data. In addition, we provided explainability focused on both global and local features. Calculated distance between real images and their projections in the latent space proved the authenticity of generated samples, which is one of the main concerns in this type of applications. The code for studies is publicly available (https://github.com/aidotse/stylegan2-ada-pytorch).
Ukrainian Version of the Copresence Scale
Authors: Naydonova Lyubov , Pochwatko Grzegorz , Naydonov Mykhaylo , Świdrak Justyna
Published: July 2023

Millions of Ukrainians are fleeing the war to the EU countries; in particular, Poland has accepted more than three million refugees, among whom are mostly women and children. Some of them continue to work remotely in Ukraine and communicate with friends and relatives at a distance through technology-mediated ways. The aim of our study was to observe the role of perceived copresence during social contacts, both of professional and private character, and validate the Ukrainian version of the copresence scale among Ukrainian migrants. We collected 221 responses in an online and face-to-face study from Ukraine migrants. Analyses revealed that the Ukrainian Perceived Copresence scale has one factor and appropriate internal consistency. Perspectives of future research are proposed.
A Method for Co-designing Immersive VR Environments with Users Excluded from the Main Technological Discourse
Authors: Kopeć Wiesław , Jaskulska Anna , Karpowicz Barbara , Pochwatko Grzegorz , Kornacka Monika , Skorupska Kinga
Published: July 2023

With the advent of new interfaces and modes of interaction related to virtual, augmented and mixed reality (VR, AR, MR) or voice user interfaces (VUI) a need to explore new approaches to foster rapid software prototyping and development emerges. Drawing from our experiences in human, cooperative, and collaborative aspects of software engineering, based on IT-empowerment and participatory design with older and younger adults, we propose and examine some methods, practices and tools for co-designing software for the immersive extended reality continuum (XR), including VR, AR or VUI. In a series of empirical and field studies we examined various experimental setups for stakeholders’ participation within and across different steps and phases of the software development process for immersive extended reality environments (IERE). In this article we provide an overview of selected methods, practices and tools, that we found best support communication, collaboration, and cooperation among stakeholders, especially the members of vulnerable groups who are often excluded from the main technological discourse and need more empowerment.
Improving the Usability of Requests for Consent to Use Cookies
Authors: Lapin Kristina , Volungevičiūtė Laima
Published: July 2023

An HTTP cookie (hereinafter cookie) is a piece of information that maintains a state in a stateless HTTP protocol. Recently established privacy and security regulation imposes an obligation on the service provider to obtain the user’s consent to use cookies. This paper is aimed at studying usability guidelines of requests for consent to use cookies (hereinafter consent requests). The consent requests have usability issues that make it difficult for the users to choose the right privacy and security options. A study of privacy and security regulation is aimed at extracting design requirements. Manipulative designs also known as dark patterns are explored and applied to assess consent requests of two of the most popular Lithuanian news portals. An evaluation revealed the presence of dark patterns in consent requests as well as violation of privacy and security requirements. As a result, usability guidelines on the design of cookie consent requests are developed.
NARX Recurrent Neural Network Model of the Graphene-Based Electronic Skin Sensors with Hysteretic Behaviour
Authors: Możaryn Jakub
Published: July 2023

The electronic skin described in the article comprises screen-printed graphene-based sensors, intended to be used for robotic applications. The precise mathematical model allowing the touch pressure estimation is required during its calibration. The article describes the recurrent neural network model for graphene-based electronic skin calibration, in which parameters are not homogeneous, and the touch force characteristics have visible hysteretic behaviour. The presented method provides a simple alternative to the models known in the literature.
Collaborative Robotics. Safety and Ethical Considerations
Authors: Różańska-Walczuk Monika
Published: July 2023

Every year, collaborative robots get closer to humans and cooperation with them takes place not only in industrial spaces, where specialized employees work with them, but also people who do not have knowledge in the field of engineering and robotics. Therefore, great attention is paid to safety in the cooperation of robots and humans. In addition, the aspect of ethics and their ethical behavior towards a human co-worker, companion or petitioner is more and more often taken into account. Knowledge of potential safety hazards is important to secure safety early in robots’ design and development process. Therefore security is one of main issues raised in the article. The most important safety standards from the point of view of collaborative robotics are presented. In the article described example of cobots acting increasingly role as members of our society. Access to them is becoming more and more common - they are household members, waiters or airport staff. Presented in the paper issue of ethics in reference to robots and AI are becoming increasingly significant impact on human. It deals with topics of physical and ethical safety in cooperation between humans and robots. Reference has been made to the safety standards. Due to proximity of technology in humans lives, access to them, and even dependence on them, that issue was particularly emphasized by the author. The paper is source of references to considerations of human safety in robotized environments and ethics in robotics applications.
AI4U: Modular Framework for AI Application Design
Authors: Wołoszyn Kamil , Turchan K. , Rąpała M. , Piotrowski K.
Published: July 2023

This paper presents the concepts of a universal, modular framework that shall enable rapid development of AI applications. The goal of the conceptual tool is the versatility in terms of changing the environment, as well as integration of different types of sensors to perform a specific task. The framework follows the Sens4U approach that will facilitate the entire process of building the AI applications and simplify the testing process.
AI in Prostate MRI Analysis: A Short, Subjective Review of Potential, Status, Urgent Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Jóźwiak Rafał , Mykhalevych Ihor , Gorbenko Iryna , Sobecki Piotr , Mitura Jakub , Lorenc Tomasz , Tupikowski Krzysztof
Published: July 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) in prostate MRI analysis shows great promise and impressive performance. A large number of studies present the usefulness of AI models in tasks such as prostate segmentation, lesion detection, and the classification and stratification of a cancer’s aggressiveness. This article presents a subjective critical review of AI in prostate MRI analysis. It discusses both the technology’s current state and its most recent advances, as well as its challenges. The article then presents opportunities in the context of ongoing research, which possesses the potential to reduce bias and to be applied in clinical settings.
Performance of Deep CNN and Radiologists in Prostate Cancer Classification: A Comparative Pilot Study
Authors: Sobecki Piotr , Jóźwiak Rafał , Mykhalevych Ihor
Published: July 2023

In recent years multiple deep-learning solutions have emerged that aim to assist radiologists in prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis. Most of the studies however do not compare the diagnostic accuracy of the developed models to that of radiology specialists but simply report the model performance on the reference datasets. This makes it hard to infer the potential benefits and applicability of proposed methods in diagnostic workflows. In this paper, we investigate the effects of using pre-trained models in the differentiation of clinically significant PCa (csPCa) on mpMRI and report the results of conducted multi-reader multi-case pilot study involving human experts. The study aims to compare the performance of deep learning models with six radiologists varying in diagnostic experience. A subset of the ProstateX Challenge dataset counting 32 prostate lesions was used to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of models and human raters using ROC analysis. Deep neural networks were found to achieve comparable performance to experienced readers in the diagnosis of csPCa. Results confirm the potential of deep neural networks in enhancing the cognitive abilities of radiologists in PCa assessment.
Begründung und Geltung. Rhetorische Verflechtungen von Recht und Literatur
Authors: Arnold Stefan , Wagner-Egelhaaf Martina
Published: July 2023

Recht und Literatur bzw. Rechts- und Literaturwissenschaft sind über die Rhetorik historisch und systematisch miteinander verbunden. Allerdings hat die Rhetorik in beiden Disziplinen einen unterschiedlichen Stellenwert: Während die Rhetorik in der Literaturwissenschaft ein prominentes Instrumentarium der Textanalyse darstellt, dabei aber oft auf die Figurenlehre reduziert wird, ist ihr Ansehen in der Rechtswissenschaft eher gering, insofern Rhetorik als etwas der juristischen ,Wahrheit‘ Hinzugefügtes begriffen wird. Der Beitrag argumentiert dafür, dass jede Redeäußerung grundsätzlich eine rhetorische Dimension hat und verweist auf die produktive Vielgestaltigkeit der Rhetorik. Insbesondere nimmt er Geltungsbegründungen in Rechts- und Literaturwissenschaft in den Blick, indem er auf der einen Seite zeigt, wie in der Poetik des 18. Jahrhunderts Geltung rhetorisch erzeugt wird, und auf der anderen Seite die rhetorische Verfasstheit von Gerichtsurteilen als Untersuchungsbereich vorstellt. Außerdem wird eine Matrix zur differenzierten Erfassung des Geltungsbegriffs vorgestellt.
Integration of nuclear Ca2+ transients and subnuclear protein shuttling provides a novel mechanism for the regulation of CREB-dependent gene expression
Authors: Karpova Anna , Samer Sebastian , Turacak Rabia , Yuanxiang PingAn , Kreutz Michael R.
Published: July 2023

Nuclear Ca2+ waves elicited by NMDAR and L-type voltage-gated Ca2+-channels as well as protein transport from synapse-to-nucleus are both instrumental in control of plasticity-related gene expression. At present it is not known whether fast [Ca2+]n transients converge in the nucleus with signaling of synapto-nuclear protein messenger. Jacob is a protein that translocate a signalosome from N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) to the nucleus and that docks this signalosome to the transcription factor CREB. Here we show that the residing time of Jacob in the nucleoplasm strictly correlates with nuclear [Ca2+]n transients elicited by neuronal activity. A steep increase in [Ca2+]n induces instantaneous uncoupling of Jacob from LaminB1 at the nuclear lamina and promotes the association with the transcription factor cAMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB) in hippocampal neurons. The size of the Jacob pool at the nuclear lamina is controlled by previous activity-dependent nuclear import, and thereby captures the previous history of NMDAR-induced nucleocytoplasmic shuttling. Moreover, the localization of Jacob at the nuclear lamina strongly correlates with synaptic activity and [Ca2+]n waves reflecting ongoing neuronal activity. In consequence, the resulting extension of the nuclear residing time of Jacob amplifies the capacity of the Jacob signalosome to regulate CREB-dependent gene expression and will, thereby, compensate for the relatively small number of molecules reaching the nucleus from individual synapses.
Sigmoid neovagina prolapse treated with Altemeier procedure: case report and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Drusany Starič Kristina , Distefano Rosario Emanuele Carlo , Norčič Gregor
Published: July 2023

Background

Bowel vaginoplasty is a surgical method for neovagina construction that, despite its advantages over other techniques, is still burdened by complications such as prolapse. The incidence of sigmoid neovagina prolapse (SNP) is difficult to determine, and there are no evidence-based recommendations for treatment. We present a case of SNP and a systematic review of previous cases.

Case

A 73-year-old woman presented with stage III prolapse of her sigmoid neovagina constructed 51 years prior. Dynamic pelvic MRI revealed that the majority of the prolapse was due to the mucosa’s loss of support. Due to the presence of numerous pelvic adhesions, an alternative to the laparoscopic approach was evaluated by a multidisciplinary team which led to the patient being treated using a modification of Altemeier’s procedure.

Systematic review

After PROSPERO Registration (CRD42023400677), a systematic search of Medline and Scopus was performed using specific search terms. Study metadata including patient demographics, prolapse measurements, reconstruction techniques, recurrence rates, and timing were extracted. Fourteen studies comprising 17 cases of SNP were included. Vaginal resection of the redundant sigmoid, comprising Altemeier’s procedure, was the most definitive surgery, but it was also associated with recurrences in three cases. Laparoscopic sacropexy was the second most definitive surgery with no recurrence reported.

Conclusion

Our review shows that the recurrence after correction of sigmoid neovagina prolapses is higher than previously reported. Laparoscopy colposacropexy appeared to be the best approach, but it’s not always feasible. In these scenarios, a mucosal resection using the Altemeier’s procedure is the most effective surgery.
Boosting enzymatic hydrolysis of steam-pretreated softwood by laccase and endo-β-mannanase enzymes from Streptomyces ipomoeae CECT 3341
Authors: Eugenio María E. , Domínguez Gabriela , Molina-Guijarro José M. , Hernández Manuel , Arias María E. , Ibarra David
Published: July 2023

Ligninases and hemicellulases are crucial as accessory enzymes to increase the enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulose, boosting sugars production from which biofuels and bioproducts could be obtained. In order to find new sources of these accessory enzymes, this study evaluates the potential of laccase and mannanase enzymes from Streptomyces ipomoeae for improving the conventional hydrolysis with commercial cellulases of steam-pretreated softwood. For that, different laccase treatment and mannanase supplementation strategies were performed. S. ipomoeae laccase increased both glucose and xylose production (17.8% and 9.3%, respectively), which was attributed to a removal of phenols of 29%. Moreover, the combination of laccase and alkaline extraction produced a lignin reduction of 16.2%, improving the glucose and xylose production by almost 41.3% and 44.9%, respectively. On the other hand, the supplementation of S. ipomoeae mannanase to the hydrolysis 24 h before the addition of cellulases increased the glucose (18.4%), xylose (12.3%), and mannose (47.2%) production.
Breaking the Barrier: A Study on Multi‐drug Resistance in Breast Abscess at an Academic Malaysian Hospital
Authors: Lee Choon Jiat , Lai Lee Lee , See Mee Hoong , Velayuthan Rukumani Devi , Doon Yoke Kiet , Lim Phaik Eem , Lim Crystale Siew Ying , Poong Sze Wan , Chong Christina Shook Cheng , Lee Pui Yuei , Tan Yong Hui
Published: July 2023

Background

In recent years, the increase in antibiotics usage locally has led to a worrying emergence of multi‐drug resistant organisms (MDRO), with the Malaysian prevalence rate of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) ranging from 17.2 to 28.1% between 1999 and 2017. A study has shown that 7% of all non‐lactational breast abscesses are caused by MRSA. Although aspiration offers less morbidities compared to surgical drainage, about 20% of women infected by MRSA who initially underwent aspiration subsequently require surgical drainage. This study is conducted to determine the link between aetiology, antimicrobial resistance pattern and treatment modalities of breast abscesses.

Methods

Retrospective study of reviewing microbiology specimens of breast abscess patients treated at Universiti Malaya Medical Centre from 2015 to 2020. Data collected from microbiology database and electronic medical records were analysed using SPSS V21.

Result

A total of 210 specimens from 153 patients were analysed. One‐fifth (19.5%) of the specimens isolated were MDRO. Lactational associated infections had the largest proportion of MDR in comparison to non‐lactational and secondary infections (38.5%, 21.7%, 25.7%, respectively; p = 0.23). Staphylococcus epidermidis recorded the highest number of MDR (n = 12) followed by S. aureus (n = 8). Adjusted by aetiological groups, the presence of MDRO is linked to failure of single aspirations (p = 0.554) and significantly doubled the risk of undergoing surgical drainage for resolution (p = 0.041).

Conclusion

MDR in breast abscess should be recognised as an increasing healthcare burden due to a paradigm shift of MDRO and a rise of resistance cases among lactational associated infection that were vulnerable to undergo surgical incision and drainage for resolution.
Effects of sarcopenia and myosteatosis are alleviated in reduced port surgery for diverticulitis
Authors: Schaffler-Schaden Dagmar , Mittermair Christof , Bittner Ferdinand , Zintl Ramona , Schaffler Gottfried , Weiss Helmut
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Many studies report the predictive value of sarcopenia, myosteatosis, and visceral fat for clinical outcome after surgery. Radiological analysis of body composition is a valuable tool for identifying high-risk patients undergoing major abdominal surgery. Despite the high prevalence of diverticular disease, patients with benign conditions have hardly been studied in this context. This study aims to evaluate the impact of reduced port surgery on the outcome of patients with diverticulitis, adjusting for body composition.

Methods

We assessed body composition profiles using preoperative CT slices at the level of the third lumbar vertebra in consecutive patients undergoing single-port elective surgery for diverticulitis in a single center. The effects of sarcopenia, myosteatosis, and visceral fat on mortality and complications were analyzed and adjusted for age and gender.

Results

We enrolled 99 patients with diverticulitis undergoing elective single port surgery in this study. Of the patients, 71.2% had sarcopenia and 60.6% had myosteatosis. The overall complication rate was 17.2%, and the rate of anastomotic leakage was 4.0%. Thirty-day mortality was 2.0%. Loss of skeletal muscle mass, myosteatosis, and visceral fat were not associated with higher complication or mortality rates in our cohort.

Conclusion

Body composition profiles had no impact on the clinical course in our cohort. Minimally invasive surgery may potentially compensate for the adverse effects of sarcopenia and myosteatosis in diverticulitis.
FIT for purpose: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial to personalize surveillance colonoscopy for individuals at elevated risk of colorectal cancer
Authors: Winter Jean M. , Cornthwaite Kathryn J. , Young Graeme P. , Wilson Carlene , Chen Gang , Woodman Richard , Coats Michelle , Fraser Robert , Cock Charles , Bampton Peter , Symonds Erin L.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

There is increasing demand for colorectal cancer (CRC) surveillance, but healthcare capacity is limited. The burden on colonoscopy resources could be reduced by personalizing surveillance frequency using the fecal immunochemical test (FIT). This study will determine the safety, cost-effectiveness, and patient acceptance of using FIT to extend surveillance colonoscopy intervals for individuals at elevated risk of CRC.

Methods

This multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial will invite participants who are scheduled for surveillance colonoscopy (due to a personal history of adenomas or a family history of CRC) and who have returned a low fecal hemoglobin (< 2 μg Hb/g feces; F-Hb) using a two-sample FIT (OC Sensor, Eiken Chemical Company) in the prior 3 years. A total of 1344 individuals will be randomized to either surveillance colonoscopy as scheduled or delayed by 1 or 2 years for individuals originally recommended a 3- or 5-year surveillance interval, respectively. The primary endpoint is incidence of advanced neoplasia (advanced adenoma and/or CRC). Secondary endpoints include cost-effectiveness and consumer acceptability of extending surveillance intervals, determined using surveys and discrete choice experiments.

Conclusion

This study will establish the safety, cost-effectiveness, and acceptability of utilizing a low FIT Hb result to extend colonoscopy surveillance intervals in a cohort at elevated risk for CRC. This personalized approach to CRC surveillance will lead to a reduction in unnecessary colonoscopies, increases in healthcare savings, and a better patient experience. 

Trial registration

Registration was approved on December 9, 2019 with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ANZCTR 12619001743156.
Thyroid disturbances after COVID-19 and the effect of vaccination in children: a prospective tri-center registry analysis
Authors: Herczeg Vivien , Garai Réka , Takács Johanna , Kovács Fanni , Luczay Andrea , Hrapka Erzsébet , Krivácsy Péter , Hosszú Éva , Beniczky Nikolett Jusztina , Németh Ágnes , Szilágyi Eszter Szabina , Pécsi Anna , Szabó Zsófia , Szabó Attila József , Tóth-Heyn Péter
Published: July 2023

Rapidly evolving clinical data suggest that the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and vaccination against COVID-19 might be associated with thyroid disturbances. However, studies remain limited among the pediatric population. Our aim was to assess the prevalence and permanence of thyroid autoimmunity (TA) and dysfunction in children after an acute infection and its potential association with vaccination. A prospective, multicenter registry analysis was performed among 458 children (mean age: 12.4 ± 3,8 years, 45.4% male) with preceding COVID-19. Patient inclusion lasted from 24th March, 2021 to 23rd March, 2022 at three pediatric outpatient facilities at Semmelweis University, Budapest. Primary outcomes were the rate of thyroid disturbances assessed by laboratory parameters (thyroid function tests, antithyroglobulin [ATG] and anti-thyroid peroxidase [ATPO] antibodies) and thyroid ultrasound. TA rate among vaccinated and unvaccinated children was determined. Children with newly diagnosed thyroid alterations were followed up for 12.7 ± 4.3 months. Six children had previous thyroid disease. Out of 452 children, 30 cases (6.6%) of newly diagnosed TA (six of them had abnormal thyroid-stimulating hormone [TSH] levels) and eight cases (1.8%) of isolated TSH elevation were observed. Ultrasound-proven autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) was 4.0%. No association was found between COVID-19 vaccination and thyroid autoimmunity (χ2(1,N = 452) = 0.138, p = 0.815). Among children with TA, 73.3% had long-lasting alterations.

  Conclusion: Vaccination had no effect on the prevalence of TA. Until further controlled studies state otherwise, children with preceding COVID-19 might benefit from thyroid screening.

What is Known:• Numerous case reports implicate that coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) and vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 can be responsible for thyroid disturbances.• Thyroid alterations discovered during acute COVID-19 tend to cease by time and only incidental thyroid autoimmunity (TA) is diagnosed after COVID-19. In adults, no increase in vaccine-related hyper- or hypothyroidism was found.

What is New:• TA rate after COVID-19 vaccination among children was not increased. TA had no role in long COVID syndrome.• We discovered a considerable rate of TA (6.6%) and ultrasound-proven autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) (4.0%) after SARS-CoV-2 infection, and the majority of these alterations remained positive after 6 months.
An improved weighted mean of vectors algorithm for microgrid energy management considering demand response
Authors: Alamir Nehmedo , Kamel Salah , Hassan Mohamed H. , Abdelkader Sobhy M.
Published: July 2023

The integration of demand response programs (DRPs) into the energy management (EM) system of microgrids (MGs) helps in improving the load characteristics by allowing consumers to interoperate for achieving techno-economic advantages. In this paper, an improved algorithm is called LINFO is proposed for modifying search ability of the original weIghted meaN oF vectOrs (INFO) algorithm as well as avoiding its weaknesses like trapping in a local optima. The improved algorithm's efficiency is confirmed by comparing its results with those obtained by the original INFO and other optimization techniques using different standard benchmark test functions. Moreover, this improved algorithm and the original version are applied for solving the EM problem with the aim of optimizing the operation cost of the MGs in the presence DRPs. They are used to solve day-ahead EM problem for optimal operation of renewable energy resources, the optimal generation from a conventional diesel engines (DEs); taking into account the participation of customers in DRP for minimizing MG operating cost, which includes the cost of DEs fuel and the power transactions cost with the main grid. To demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed LINFO, simulation results are compared with the results of well-known and newly developed optimization techniques.
Attribute disclosure risk for k-anonymity: the case of numerical data
Authors: Torra Vicenç , Navarro-Arribas Guillermo
Published: July 2023

k-Anonymity is one of the most well-known privacy models. Internal and external attacks were discussed for this privacy model, both focusing on categorical data. These attacks can be seen as attribute disclosure for a particular attribute. Then, p-sensitivity and p-diversity were proposed as solutions for these privacy models. That is, as a way to avoid attribute disclosure for this very attribute. In this paper we discuss the case of numerical data, and we show that attribute disclosure can also take place. For this, we use well-known rules to detect sensitive cells in tabular data protection. Our experiments show that k-anonymity is not immune to attribute disclosure in this sense. We have analyzed the results of two different algorithms for achieving k-anonymity. First, MDAV as a way to provide microaggregation and k-anonymity. Second, Mondrian. In fact, to our surprise, the number of cells detected as sensitive is quite significant, and there are no fundamental differences between Mondrian and MDAV. We describe the experiments considered, and the results obtained. We define dominance rule compliant and p%-rule compliant k-anonymity for k-anonymity taking into account attribute disclosure. We conclude with an analysis and directions for future research.
Sclerostin and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Tobias Jonathan H.
Published: July 2023

Purpose of Review

The role of wnt signalling in atherogenesis raises the possibility that the wnt inhibitor, sclerostin, provides a natural defence to this process, and that anti-sclerostin antibodies might increase the risk of atherosclerosis and associated conditions such as CVD. This article aims to triangulate evidence concerning possible adverse effects of sclerostin inhibition on CVD risk.

Recent Findings

Randomised controlled trials of treatment with the anti-sclerostin antibody, romosozumab, have yielded conflicting evidence with respect to possible adverse effects of sclerostin inhibition on CVD risk. To further examine the causal relationship between sclerostin inhibition and CVD risk, three Mendelian randomisation (MR) studies have examined effects of sclerostin lowering on CVD outcomes, using common genetic variants in the SOST gene which produces sclerostin, to mimic effects of a randomised trial. Concordant findings were seen in two studies, comprising an effect of sclerostin lowering on increased risk of MI and type II diabetes mellitus. One study also suggested that sclerostin lowering increases coronary artery calcification.

Triangulation of evidence from different sources provides some suggestion that sclerostin lowering increases MI risk, supporting the need for CVD risk assessment when considering treatment with romosozumab.
From an ellipsoid-based to an anthropomorphic articulated total body model for multibody applications
Authors: Pascoletti G. , Huysmans T. , Molenbroek J. F. M. , Zanetti E. M.
Published: July 2023

Human computer models represent a useful tool for investigating the human body response to external static/dynamic loads or for human-centred design. Articulated Total Body (ATB) models are the simplest human multibody models, where body segments are represented by ellipsoids joined at skeletal articulations. Over the years, regression models on both living subjects’ and cadavers’ data have been developed to predict body segments properties. These models are affected by two main limitations: the only inputs are the subject’s weight and height, not considering that for the same combination different morphologies can exist; secondly, regression analyses were performed over a specific population not including peculiar morphologies (under-weight or obese). A novel methodology for developing anthropomorphic ATB models is here presented: a statistical shape model able to predict the external geometry of the human body from a limited set of anthropometric measurements was implemented and body segments were obtained by segmentation; the respective inertial properties were computed from volumes, assuming a constant density value. The properties of this new anthropomorphic ATB model were compared to those calculated by GEBOD (Generator of Body Data), a well-known programme for ATB data calculation. A virtual population of twenty subjects was analysed: with reference to the inertial properties the most relevant differences occurred at the abdomen and the thighs segments (60% relative error), while the trunk, the shoulder and the calves represent the most critical areas for the geometry reconstruction (50 mm average error). The significance of these outcomes was investigated performing multibody simulations with various scenarios.
Environmental Risk Factors, Protective Factors, and Biomarkers for Allergic Rhinitis: A Systematic Umbrella Review of the Evidence
Authors: Xu Xianpeng , Liu Xinghong , Li Jiongke , Deng Xinxing , Dai Tianrong , Ji Qingjie , Xiong Dajing , Xie Hui
Published: July 2023

Many potential environmental risk factors, protective factors, and biomarkers of AR have been published, but so far, the strength and consistency of their evidence are unclear. We conducted a comprehensive review of environmental risk, protective factors, and biomarkers for AR to establish the evidence hierarchy. We systematically searched Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science electronic database from inception to December 31, 2022. We calculated summary effect estimate (odds ratio (OR), relative risk (RR), hazard ratio (HR), and standardized mean difference (SMD)), 95% confidence interval, random effects p value, I2 statistic, 95% prediction interval, small study effects, and excess significance biases, and stratification of the level of evidence. Methodological quality was assessed by AMSTAR 2 (A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2). We retrieved 4478 articles, of which 43 met the inclusion criteria. The 43 eligible articles identified 31 potential environmental risk factors (10,806,206 total population, two study not reported), 11 potential environmental protective factors (823,883 total population), and 34 potential biomarkers (158,716 total population) for meta-analyses. The credibility of evidence was convincing (class I) for tic disorders (OR = 2.89, 95% CI 2.11–3.95); and highly suggestive (class II) for early-life antibiotic use (OR = 3.73, 95% CI 3.06–4.55), exposure to indoor dampness (OR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.27–1.75), acetaminophen exposure (OR = 1.54, 95% CI 1.41–1.69), childhood acid suppressant use (OR = 1.40, 95% CI 1.23–1.59), exposure to indoor mold (OR = 1.66, 95% CI 1.26–2.18), coronavirus disease 2019 (OR = 0.11, 95% CI 0.06–0.22), and prolonged breastfeeding (OR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.65–0.79). This study is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022384320).