bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is sentinel lymph node biopsy needed for lentigo maligna melanoma?
Authors: Kakish Hanna , Lal Trisha , Thuener Jason E. , Bordeaux Jeremy S. , Mangla Ankit , Rothermel Luke D. , Hoehn Richard S.
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is an area of debate in the management of lentigo maligna melanoma (LMM). The utility of SLNB and its prognostic value in LMM have not yet been studied with large databases.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of the National Cancer Database (2012−2020) and the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (2010−2019) database for patients with cutaneous nonmetastatic LMM with Breslow thickness >1.0 mm. Multivariable logistic regression identified factors associated with SLNB performance and sentinel lymph node (SLN) positivity. Univariable and multivariable analyses assessed overall survival (OS) and melanoma‐specific survival (MSS) based on SLNB performance and SLN status.

Results

Compared to other melanoma subtypes, LMM had lower rates of SLNB (66.6% vs. 80.0%−84.0%) and SLN positivity (11.3% vs. 18.6%−34.2%). Compared to patients who did not undergo SLNB, SLN status was significantly associated with improved OS in patients with SLN positive (HR = 0.64 [0.55−0.76]) and SLN negative (HR = 0.68 [0.49−0.94]), and worse MSS only in patients with positive SLN (HR = 3.93, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The improved OS associated with SLNB likely implies surgical selection bias. Analysis of MSS confirms appropriate patient selection and suggests important prognostic value associated with SLN status. These results support continued SLNB for LMM patients according to standard guidelines.
Role and mechanism of esketamine in improving postoperative cognitive dysfunction in aged mice through the TLR4/MyD88/p38 MAPK pathway
Authors: Xu Hu‐Jun , Li Xian‐Peng , Han Li‐Ye
Published: November 2023

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a significant concern for the elderly population worldwide. This study explored the effects of esketamine on aged mice with POCD and investigate its mechanism of action involving the TLR4/MyD88/MAPK pathway. We administrated esketamine, along with lipopolysaccharide or anisomycin, to the aged POCD mouse models. We assessed their cognitive function using the Morris water maze test. Additionally, we evaluated histopathological changes/neuronal apoptosis in the mouse hippocampal CA1 area through HE/TUNEL stainings. Furthermore, we measured IL‐1β/IL‐6/TNF‐α/TLR4/MyD88/MAPK (p‐p38/p38) levels in mouse hippocampal tissues using ELISA/RT‐qPCR/Western blotting. Lastly, we analyzed the interaction between TLR4 and MyD88 using a co‐immunoprecipitation assay. Our findings showed that esketamine effectively mitigated POCD in aged mice. This was evident from the improved cognitive performance observed in the Morris water maze test, characterized by reduced escape latency/increased number of platform crossing/a higher percentage of time spent in the target quadrant. Furthermore, esketamine exhibited a protective effect against neuronal apoptosis and reduced the levels of inflammatory factors. These findings suggest that esketamine exerts an anti‐inflammatory effect by downregulating TLR4/MyD88, thereby attenuating the inflammatory response associated with POCD. Additionally, esketamine suppressed the p38 MAPK pathway by inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88 signaling cascade. Esketamine demonstrated its efficacy in improving postoperative inflammation and cognitive impairment in aged mice by inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88 pathway. The activation of p38 MAPK signaling diminished the beneficial effects of esketamine in aged POCD mice. Collectively, the underlying mechanism of esketamine in mitigating POCD in aged mice involves the suppression of the TLR4/MyD88/p38 MAPK pathway.
Insulin Extended Release from PLA‐PEG Stereocomplex Nanoparticles
Authors: Shapira‐Furman Tovi , Domb Abraham J.
Published: November 2023

This report addresses the challenges of controlled drug delivery for peptide and protein therapeutics by introducing a novel approach of nano formulation fabricated in aqueous media applying stereo‐interaction mechanism with poly(D‐lactide)‐polyethylene glycol (D‐PLA‐PEG). To overcome the inherent poor stability of peptide and protein therapeutics, stereocomplexation of the peptide, insulin, is applied, onto D‐PLA‐PEG in aqueous media. Nanoparticles of ≈400 nm are spontaneously formed when water‐soluble D configured PLA‐PEG diblock copolymer and L‐ configured insulin interlock into a stereocomplex, owing to their concave convex fitness. In vitro release of insulin from stereocomplex in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) pH 7.4 solution shows sustained release for 14 weeks. The therapeutic efficacy of the PLA‐insulin stereocomplex nanoparticles are evaluated in diabetic Akita mice. Blood glucose levels and body weight are closely monitored for a period of 17 weeks, revealing a significant reduction in glucose levels of the Akita mice treated with insulin stereocomplex, as well as normal body weight gain. These findings suggest that the stereocomplex nanoparticles of insulin‐D‐PLA‐PEG present a promising and effective sustained and extended release platform for insulin. Notably, the use of water‐soluble D‐PLA‐PEG for stereocomplexation in water expands the applicability of this approach to fabricate controlled delivery systems for peptide and protein therapeutics.
Can uric acid affect the immune microenvironment in bladder cancer? A single‐center multi‐omics study
Authors: Chen Haotian , Shi Donghui , Guo Changfeng , Zhang Wentao , Guo Yadong , Yang Fuhan , Wang Ruiliang , Zhang Junfeng , Fang Zujun , Yan Yang , Mao Shiyu , Yao Xudong
Published: November 2023

Metabolic abnormalities are one of the important factors in bladder cancer (BCa) progression and microenvironmental disturbance. As an important product of purine metabolism, uric acid's (UA) role in BCa metabolism and immunotherapy remains unclear. In this study, we conducted a retrospective analysis of a cohort comprising 39 BCa patients treated with PD‐1 and 169 patients who underwent radical cystectomy at Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital. Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression analysis showed that the prognosis of patients with high UA is worse (p = 0.007), and high UA is an independent risk factor for cancer specific survival in patients with BCa (p = 0.025). We established a hyperuricemia mouse model with BCa subcutaneous xenografts in vivo. The results revealed that the subcutaneous tumors of hyperuricemia mice had a greater weight and volume in comparison with the control group. Through flow cytometric analysis, the proportion of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells in these subcutaneous tumors was seen to decline significantly. We also evaluated the relationship of UA and BCa by muti‐omic analysis. UA related genes were significantly increased in the CD8+ T cell of non‐responders to immunotherapy by single‐cell sequencing. An 11‐gene UA related signature was constructed and the risk score negatively correlated with various immune cells and immune checkpoints. Finally, a nomogram was established using a UA related signature to forecast the survival rate of patients with BCa. Collectively, this study demonstrated that UA was an independent prognostic biomarker for BCa and was associated with worse immunotherapy response.
The manufacturer's quality‐improvement decisions and evolutionary stable strategy of retailers' marketing objectives under network externality
Authors: Sun Linyang , Yi Yuyin , Yang Haishen , Li Huayi
Published: November 2023

To analyze the influence of network externality (NE) and bargaining power of retailers on the quality‐improvement decisions of the manufacturer, evolutionary stable strategy (ESS) of retailers' marketing objectives, and profits of retailers and the manufacturer, we developed an evolutionary game model of supply chain composed of a monopoly manufacturer and one population of retailers under NE. We found that the retailers' ESS is influenced by both NE and product quality‐improvement levels. With the improvement of NE or product quality‐improvement levels, the marketing objectives of retailers will experience three evolutionary stable states: profit maximization, coexistence of profit maximization and revenue maximization, and revenue maximization. The product quality‐improvement levels and retailers' profits do not necessarily improve with the increase of NE, which depend on the retailers' ESS, but the manufacturer's profits always benefit from NE. When retailers' bargaining power reaches a certain level, it can influence the ESS of retailers' marketing objectives. Interestingly, the retailers' bargaining power does not necessarily enhance their own profits; it is related to the ESS of retailers' marketing objectives but consistently reduces the manufacturer's profits.
Joint AAPM Task Group 282/EFOMP Working Group Report: Breast dosimetry for standard and contrast‐enhanced mammography and breast tomosynthesis
Authors: Sechopoulos Ioannis , Dance David R. , Boone John M. , Bosmans Hilde T. , Caballo Marco , Diaz Oliver , van Engen Ruben , Fedon Christian , Glick Stephen J. , Hernandez Andrew M. , Hill Melissa L. , Hulme Katie W. , Longo Renata , Rabin Carolina , Sanderink Wendelien B. G. , Seibert J. Anthony
Published: November 2023

Currently, there are multiple breast dosimetry estimation methods for mammography and its variants in use throughout the world. This fact alone introduces uncertainty, since it is often impossible to distinguish which model is internally used by a specific imaging system. In addition, all current models are hampered by various limitations, in terms of overly simplified models of the breast and its composition, as well as simplistic models of the imaging system. Many of these simplifications were necessary, for the most part, due to the need to limit the computational cost of obtaining the required dose conversion coefficients decades ago, when these models were first implemented.

With the advancements in computational power, and to address most of the known limitations of previous breast dosimetry methods, a new breast dosimetry method, based on new breast models, has been developed, implemented, and tested. This model, developed jointly by the American Association of Physicists in Medicine and the European Federation for Organizations of Medical Physics, is applicable to standard mammography, digital breast tomosynthesis, and their contrast‐enhanced variants. In addition, it includes models of the breast in both the cranio‐caudal and the medio‐lateral oblique views. Special emphasis was placed on the breast and system models used being based on evidence, either by analysis of large sets of patient data or by performing measurements on imaging devices from a range of manufacturers.

Due to the vast number of dose conversion coefficients resulting from the developed model, and the relative complexity of the calculations needed to apply it, a software program has been made available for download or online use, free of charge, to apply the developed breast dosimetry method. The program is available for download or it can be used directly online. A separate User's Guide is provided with the software.
Bioarchaeological insights into the Late Helladic communities of South Kynouria, Peloponnese: The case of the LH IIIA2‐IIIB2 burial cluster of Socha
Authors: Tritsaroli Paraskevi , Grigorakakis Grigoris , Richards Michael
Published: November 2023

This paper examines the human osteological remains unearthed from six Late Helladic (LH IIIA2‐IIIB2) (1390/70–1200/1190 BCE) tombs at Socha in the Peloponnese. It seeks to investigate the character of a Mycenaean community that though organically integrated into and highly dependent on the palatial system, manifested Mycenaean burial practices with a distinctly local character, namely, through the use of built cist‐tombs. Our analysis investigates further the identity of this community and explores whether these people had also adopted a different way of life, diet and mortuary behavior toward specific groups. The results show that the demographic composition, diet, and health characteristics of the deceased of Socha were analogous to most Mycenaean sites: (a) equal representation of males and females, (b) burial exclusion of infants and young children, and (c) homogenous C3 terrestrial diet. In addition, a tendency for a more frequent inclusion of middle‐aged females with subadults in the same tomb suggests gender and age differentiation are in play. On the other hand, even though the burials of Socha practiced collectivity, an emphasis on individuality through a less variable post‐mortem manipulation of the deceased is also in evidence and is characterized by single secondary deposits within the original grave, no evidence for commingling, and no evidence for removal nor selection of bones in secondary deposits. These characteristics demonstrate the differentiation of the group of Socha during a period of intensive movement and the creation of new settlements in South Kynouria.
Outcomes following proton therapy for pediatric esthesioneuroblastoma
Authors: Drescher Nicolette R. , Indelicato Daniel J. , Dagan Roi , Bradley Julie A. , Holtzman Adam L. , Mailhot Vega Raymond B. , Aldana Philipp R. , Sandler Eric S. , Morris Christopher G. , Mendenhall William M.
Published: November 2023

Background

Pediatric esthesioneuroblastoma (EN) can infiltrate skull base anatomy, presenting challenges due to high radiation doses and pediatric tissue sensitivity. This study reports outcomes of pediatric EN treated with proton radiotherapy (PT).

Procedure

Using an IRB‐approved prospective outcomes registry, we evaluated patient, tumor, and treatment‐related variables impacting disease control and toxicity in pediatric nonmetastatic EN treated with modern multimodality therapy, including PT.

Results

Fifteen consecutive patients (median age 16) comprising Kadish stage B (n = 2), C (n = 9), and D (n = 4) tumors were assessed, including six with intracranial involvement, four with cranial nerve deficits, and four with cervical lymphadenopathy. Before radiation, two had subtotal and 13 had gross total resections (endoscopic or craniofacial). Two underwent neck dissection. Eleven received chemotherapy before radiation (n = 5), concurrent with radiation (n = 4), or both (n = 2). Median total radiation dose (primary site) was 66 Gy/CGE for gross disease and 54 Gy/CGE (cobalt Gray equivalent) for microscopic disease. Median follow‐up was 4.8 years. No patients were lost to follow‐up. Five‐year disease‐free and overall survival rates were 86% (no local or regional recurrences). Two patients developed vertebral metastases and died. Two required a temporary feeding tube for oral mucositis/dysphagia. Late toxicities included symptomatic retinopathy, major reconstructive surgery, cataracts, chronic otitis media, chronic keratoconjunctivitis, hypothyroidism, and in‐field basal cell skin cancer.

Conclusions

A multimodality approach for pediatric EN results in excellent local control. Despite the moderate‐dose PT, serious radiation toxicity was observed; further dose and target volume reductions may benefit select patients. Longer follow‐up and comparative data from modern photon series are necessary to fully characterize any relative PT advantage.
Evaluation of tribological properties of silane‐treated rapeseed straw fiber reinforced friction polymer composites prepared by wet granulation
Authors: Zhang Qifeng , Qi Zicheng , Ma Yunhai , Yao Yumei , Li Lekai , Cong Xu , Zhang Cuiying
Published: November 2023

Reinforcing fibers play a key role in improving the tribological properties of friction polymer composites. Cellulose reinforcing fibers were extracted from rapeseed straw waste and prepared as friction composites based on wet granulation, and the effects of heat and rapeseed straw fiber (RSF) additions on the tribological properties were systematically investigated. The addition of RSF induced an important transformation of the major wear mechanism to abrasive wear, especially at 9 wt%, where the abundant tribo‐films contributed to the stability of the friction coefficients (fade rate 6.8%, recovery rate 106.6%), resulting in a 37.5% increase in wear resistance compared to no addition. Furthermore, XRD, FTIR and SEM analyses showed that the silane‐ethanol solution modification contributed to the good performance of RSF.

Highlights

Rapeseed straw fiber (RSF) and granulation technology for polymer composites.

Addition of RSF transforms adhesive and fatigue wear into abrasive wear.

Friction models are developed to clarify the wear mechanism transformation.

A 37.5% increase in wear resistance was achieved when RSF was added at 9 wt%.
Hybrid network formation of silicon carbide and expanded graphene nanoplatelets in epoxy resin for thermal management
Authors: Chenari Reza , Fasihi Mohammad
Published: November 2023

The current study discusses the incorporation of silicon carbide (SiC) and expanded graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) hybrid filler into epoxy resin to enhance its thermal conductivity, mechanical, and electrical insulation properties. The hybrid filler was incorporated into the epoxy resin by ultrasonic‐assisted blending solution process, and the thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties of the samples were assessed. The results displayed that both SiC and GNP fillers enhance the thermal conductivity of the epoxy resin. Addition of 15.3 wt% SiC/GNP filler (15/0.3) to pure epoxy increased the thermal conductivity coefficient by over 230%. The samples maintained the electrical insulation properties with electrical conductivity (EC) less than 10−9 S/m. Both fillers reduced the breakdown voltage of the samples. Furthermore, strong filler‐matrix adhesion resulted in a significant 414% improvement in Izod impact strength.

Highlights

Combining SiC and GNP fillers affects the thermal and electrical properties of epoxy.

SiC and GNP synergistically improved the thermal diffusivity and conductivity of epoxy.

The prepared composites remained in the range of electrical insulation.

The impact strength of composites enhanced more than 400% compared to epoxy.
Modeling the matching stage of HDPE hot plate welding: A study using regression and support vector machine models
Authors: Novakovic Boris , Kashkoush Mohamed
Published: November 2023

This research studies the material displacement of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) during the initial stage of the hot plate welding (HPW) process, called the Matching stage. Newly developed mathematical models simulate the relationship between the main process parameters (force, temperature, and time) and the size of the surface area. The collected data was used to develop four mathematical models for material displacement and time. Two models are machine learning based models (support vector machines). The other two models are regression models in the form of functions. In addition, this study provides a visual representation of HDPE melt displacement with the changes in temperature and pressure. The obtained results indicate that these models can be used for developing a parameter adjustment process or determining specifications for new production equipment. The potential applications of the developed models can be extended to industries that use HPW of HDPE, such as automotive or aerospace. This could result in significant savings in the amount of scrap and waste due to inaccurate and ad hoc settings that currently take place in the industry.

Highlights

Study of HDPE material displacement in the hot plate welding Matching stage.

Visualization of HDPE melt displacement with temperature and pressure changes.

Development of SVM and mathematical regression models.

Applications in parameter adjustment and equipment specification.

Savings in scrap and waste by reducing inaccurate settings.
Solar cell efficiency tables (Version 63)
Authors: Green Martin A. , Dunlop Ewan D. , Yoshita Masahiro , Kopidakis Nikos , Bothe Karsten , Siefer Gerald , Hao Xiaojing
Published: November 2023

Consolidated tables showing an extensive listing of the highest independently confirmed efficiencies for solar cells and modules are presented. Guidelines for inclusion of results into these tables are outlined and new entries since July 2023 are reviewed.
Development and evaluation of an escape room based on general pharmacokinetics: Students' perceptions of its motivational climate
Authors: van Houwelingen Anneke , ter Heegde Freija , Boschloo Wendy , Piek Leonie , Wubbels Theo
Published: November 2023

We designed an escape room based on the basic principles of pharmacokinetics for undergraduate bachelor students and explored its effect on students' perceived motivational climate and usefulness as a formative assessment via a mixed‐method design. The effect on students' perceptions of the motivational climate was measured using pre‐ and post‐test measurements of the MUSIC® inventory. Students' experiences with the escape room and suggestions for improvement were collected by open‐ended survey questions. Forty‐one students initially joined the study while 28 students completed both the pre‐ and post‐test MUSIC® inventory. Data from the MUSIC® inventory revealed the effect of playing the escape room on students' situational interest was positive with medium to large effect (Cohen's dav = 0.63). Data from the open‐ended questions confirmed the outcome of the MUSIC® inventory. While there was a positive effect on situational interest, students found the escape room not very useful as a tool for formative assessment. Further research should include a control group and focus on the effect of the escape room on academic success and work toward increasing the capacity of the escape room for large‐scale courses.
The socioeconomic trajectories of New Zealand's diverse language communities: A longitudinal perspective
Authors: Buckingham Louisa
Published: November 2023

The extent of demographic diversity in some migrant‐receiving countries has led to the formation of majority‐minority (or superdiverse) cities, a phenomenon also found in New Zealand. Recognising that demographic diversity is dynamic, sensitive to mobility patterns and shifts in socioeconomic indicators, this study examines diversity through the lens of common (nonofficial) languages (n = 21), by employing customised census data spanning five consecutive census years (1996–2018) that provides insights into ethnicity, religion, education, employment, income, and residential density. Considerable variation was found in the identification with one or more religious and ethnic attributes; while some language speaker groups (LSGs) displayed a strong, stable identification, other cases were characterised by fluctuations and mobility. Similarly, considerable differences between LSGs were found with respect to education, employment and income, which can partially be explained by selective migration. Finally, residential density has increased in secondary cities, particularly among LSGs with more dynamic socioeconomic indicators. The analysis, informed by the different migration histories and settlement experiences of the LSGs, contributes to understanding the dynamic quality of diversity indicators and the relative socioeconomic im/mobility of some groups, and demonstrates how the concepts of superdiversity and hyper‐selectivity can be operationalised.
Distinctive Features of Mesa‐Type Metal/Dielectric Surface Grating Structures Assisting Resonant Enhancement of Thermal Emission at Longitudinal–Optical Phonon Energy
Authors: Aye Hnin Lai Lai , Lin Bojin , Suzuki Ikuya , Ishitani Yoshihiro
Published: November 2023

Previously, a longitudinal optical (LO) phonon resonant emission (LORE) at 8.5 THz from Au‐GaAs surface microstructures at 630 K is reported. This emission ascribed to thermally generated electric dipoles by the coherently vibrating charges at Au/GaAs/Au interfaces shows no dependence of the emission photon energy on the emission direction, which is different from the property of surface phonon polaritons. Herein, the advantage of surface grating structures with high mesa and narrow window width is shown. The experimental emission properties of samples with 1.4–6.0 μm window width and mesa height up to 2.7 μm and finite difference time domain simulations reveal the increase in mesa height increases the electric dipole moment, while it augments the reabsorption of LORE and the background radiation subject to Planck's law for a wide window width of 6 μm. Reabsorption and the background emission can be reduced by adopting high mesa and narrow windows, which is due to the reduction of both the wire‐grid polarizer function and the distribution of the electric field beyond the LO‐phonon coherence inside the GaAs wafer. Theoretical simulation results suggest that a structure with a window width of 0.75 μm and a mesa height of 2 μm is an effective countermeasure.
ConservationBots: Autonomous aerial robot for fast robust wildlife tracking in complex terrains
Authors: Chen Fei , Nguyen Hoa Van , Taggart David A. , Falkner Katrina , Rezatofighi S. Hamid , Ranasinghe Damith C.
Published: November 2023

Radio tagging and tracking are fundamental to understanding the movements and habitats of wildlife in their natural environments. Today, the most widespread,widely applicabletechnology for gathering data relies on experienced scientists armed with handheld radio‐telemetry equipment to locate low‐power radio transmitters attached to wildlife from the ground. Although aerial robots can transform labor‐intensive conservation tasks, the realization of autonomous systems for tackling task complexities under real‐world conditions remains a challenge. We developedConservationBots—small aerial robots for tracking multiple, dynamic, radio‐tagged wildlife. The aerial robot achieves robust localization performance and fast task completion times—significant for energy‐limited aerial systems while avoiding close encounters with potential, counterproductive disturbances to wildlife. Our approach overcomes the technical and practical problems posed by combining a lightweight sensor with new concepts: (i) planning to determine both trajectory and measurement actions guided by an information‐theoretic objective, which allows the robot to strategically select near‐instantaneous range‐only measurements to achieve faster localization, and time‐consuming sensor rotation actions to acquire bearing measurements and achieve robust tracking performance; (ii) a bearing detector more robust to noise; and (iii) a tracking algorithm formulation robust to missed and false detections experienced in real‐world conditions. We conducted extensive studies: simulations built upon complex signal propagation over high‐resolution elevation data on diverse geographical terrains; field testing; studies with wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons; nocturnal, vulnerable species dwelling in underground warrens) and tracking comparisons with a highly experienced biologist to validate the effectiveness of our aerial robot and demonstrate the significant advantages over the manual method.
Development of Meta‐Chemical Surface by Dip‐Pen Nanolithography for Precise Electrochemical Lead Sensing
Authors: Yadav Krishna K. , Shamir Dror , Kornweitz Haya , Peled Yael , Zohar Moshe , Burg Ariela
Published: November 2023

Dip‐pen nanolithography (DPN) is a powerful and unique technique for precisely depositing tiny nano‐spherical cap shapes (nanoclusters) onto a desired surface. In this study, a meta‐chemical surface (MCS; a pattern with advanced features) is developed by DPN and applied to electrochemical lead sensing, yielding a calibration curve in the ppb range. An ink mixture of PMMA and NTPH (which binds to Pb (II), as supported by DFT calculations) is patterned over a Pt surface. The average height of the nanoclusters is ≈13 nm with a high surface area‐to‐volume ratio, which depends on the ink composition and the MCS surface. This ratio affected the sensitivity of the MCS as a detecting tool. The results indicate that the sensor's features can be controlled by the ability to control the size of the nanoclusters, attributed to the unique properties of the DPN production method. These results are significant for the water‐source purification industry.
Homogenization based heating control for moist paperboard with evaporation on the pore surface
Authors: Orlik Julia , Khilkov Viacheslav , Rief Stefan , Andrä Heiko
Published: November 2023

A control problem for the heating of moist paperboard with the evaporation of moisture from the inner pore surface is considered. The microstructure of the paperboard is known from the CT images. It is easily parametrized w.r.t. the volume fraction of the pores, the surface area of the pores related to the unit volume, averaged area of the contact surfaces between two fibers and the unsupported fiber length between two contact nodes, fiber thickness, and tortuosity. Simple averaging formulas are provided for the computation of the effective coefficients in the coupled diffusion‐heat problem and the dissipation energetic balance was analyzed and we pass to the limit w.r.t. the small parameter, the relation between the pore size and the paper‐board thickness. The limit model is similar to those models, recently available in the literature. However, it provides more understanding and different limiting models and the thresholds for them. Also, the limitation on the heating is derived from the solvability criteria, which means, that the evaporation should not overtake the heating. The model is validated by experimental and numerical results found in the literature.
Introduction: To Be More Relevant the Field of Science Education Needs to Be Less Relevant
Authors: Tolbert Sara , Bazzul Jesse
Published: November 2023

In this introductory chapter, we illustrate the importance of transdisciplinary and justice-oriented approaches to science education. We first challenge the rigid disciplinary boundaries of the fields of science and science education, and then lay out how Volume 2 of Reimagining Science Education in the Anthropocene offers creative diversions from the disciplining structures of ideologically conservative fields.
From False Generosity to True Generosity: Theorizing a Critical Imaginary for Science Education
Authors: Tolbert Sara , Aceves Alejandra Frausto , Olave Betzabé Torres
Published: November 2023

In this chapter we are guided by the question of why, what, and for whom we are educating in science education. We take up the Freirean notion of generosity and, building on Freire’s work, aim to differentiate between false and true generosities as inspiration for theorizing a critical imaginary in science education. Drawing from the Freirean constructs of political clarity, what we are doing and for whom, autonomía, the power to (re)define ourselves and our praxis, and solidarity across difference in the name of justice, we propose a model for true generosity in science education. We further reflect on the commitments that enacting true generosity will demand of us. True generosity in science education will entail stepping up and back, reflecting and acting upon our practices, and those of our networks, toward the courageous (re)imagination of science, scientists, and science education research. We acknowledge that these commitments will come with uncomfortable conversations about difference, anthropocentrism, and universalizing tendencies in science and education. Not losing sight of the question about why, what, and for whom we are educating, we bring forward and hold these tensions as we imagine and enact beautiful elsewheres.
How a Phenomenology of Place in Science Education Can Grant Erotic Generosities for the Ocean
Authors: Gisewhite Rachel A.
Published: November 2023

The ocean drives our climate, provides more than half of the oxygen we breathe, and has an incredible amount of biodiversity. It is one of our greatest commons, yet through the repercussions of the Anthropocene, we are headed for a tragedy of the commons. The goal of this chapter is to outline the impact of the Anthropocene on the ocean-Other and describe how a phenomenology of place in science education can enhance the lives of our youth to be meaningful within the marine environment so that they can become ocean literate and capable of making the kinds of decisions that benefit, not harm, the marine and aquatic environment.
Breaking the Paradigm: Storying Climate Change
Authors: Singh Vandana
Published: November 2023

Despite warnings from scientists and increased manifestations of its dire consequences, the climate crisis continues to worsen. Considering the climate problem as teacher, we can discern key features of the crisis that must be foundational to any effective pedagogy of climate change. These key features include transdisciplinarity, the spanning of large scales of space and time, complex interconnections within and between human and biophysical systems, and the central role of power hierarchies and inequality. This chapter argues that the dominant paradigm of modern globalized industrial civilization is the Newtonian or mechanistic paradigm, a way of constructing reality that is reductionist, atomistic, impersonal, and leads to the fragmentation of space, time, and relationships; as such, it is incapable of making sense of climate change. Dominant paradigms are maintained through stories, explicit and implicit, and therefore can be challenged by other stories, those that do allow us to understand the climate problem on its own terms. Beginning with real-life stories of marginalized communities and considering also stories that emerge from science, along with speculative fiction and cultural stories, this chapter elaborates on how stories can play the role of boundary objects, allowing travel between disciplines, perspectives, and paradigms, and challenging power hierarchies.
Terms and Definitions of Fluid Therapy
Authors: Malbrain Manu L. N. G. , Wong Adrian , Malbrain Luca , Nasa Prashant , Wilkinson Jonny
Published: November 2023

The book “Rational Fluid Therapy” aims to provide guidance on the appropriate use of intravenous (IV) fluids, which are often overlooked as medications despite being a cornerstone of patient care. In this introductory chapter, the importance of seeing IV fluids as drugs with indications, contra-indications, and potential adverse effects is emphasized. Inappropriate fluid therapy can have deleterious effects and cause patient morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the need for careful oversight and guidance is stressed in fluid prescription, as well as the implementation of fluid stewardship and organ function monitoring. Different terms related to fluid therapy, such as fluid overload and hypervolemia, are often used interchangeably despite indicating different clinical situations. Clear definitions are provided for these terms to avoid misunderstandings and misinterpretations that may lead to inappropriate therapeutic decisions. These definitions will be repeated throughout the book to ensure clarity and consistency.
The Place for Starches and Other Colloids
Authors: Salhotra Ripenmeet , Wong Adrian , Malbrain Manu L. N. G.
Published: November 2023

This chapter provides a comprehensive review of synthetic colloids, specifically hydroxyethyl starch (HES) solutions, and their role in resuscitation of critically ill, perioperative, and trauma patients. This chapter addresses various questions, including the crystalloid versus colloid debate, the strengths and weaknesses of different fluid trials and meta-analyses, and the specific situations or patient groups where colloids may have an advantage. This chapter focuses on the results of five major trials that compare the use of crystalloids versus colloids in critically ill patients. The 6S study and the CHEST trial confirmed the suspicion of renal damage associated with HES solutions, and the European Medicines Agency’s (EMA) safety committee prohibited the use of HES solutions in critically ill, septic, and burn patients, or those with kidney injury in 2013. However, many questions and controversies remained thereafter and more recently the European Commission has suspended the marketing authorizations of HES solutions for infusion. The use of HES and other synthetic colloids should be restricted to resuscitation in the perioperative setting or in limited volumes with extreme caution in trauma settings outside of the EU. The take-home messages include the availability of natural and synthetic colloids, the lack of outcome benefit in clinical trials, the association of HES with renal failure and increased use of renal replacement therapy, and the unsafe use of synthetic colloids in perioperative patients. This chapter recommends limiting the dose of synthetic colloids to 30ml/kg when given in the peri- and postoperative phase.
Fluid Management in Major Burns
Authors: Lyall Aditya , Bhadauria Abhay Singh
Published: November 2023

Advancements in the medical field have brought significant changes in burns management over the last few decades. The shock in patients with burns reflects a combination of hypovolemic, cardiogenic, and distributive shock and results in the rapid sequestration of intravascular volume into the second and third spaces, leading to intravascular depletion and large fluid shift resulting in cellular oedema. The ideal fluid for burns resuscitation is debatable, though colloids have recently seen a shift back to being used in conjunction with crystalloids, especially in later phase of resuscitation. Early and rapid resuscitation of patient with burns is a priority, as shock sets in rapidly. This chapter notes that fluid management in this subset of patients is based on resuscitation formulae and concepts elucidated decades ago; with no clear consensus on the ideal resuscitation fluid, colloids usage remains mired in controversy, and resuscitation targets and ideal monitoring tools are still poorly defined.
Fluid Physiology Part 1: Volume and Distribution of Water and Its Major Solutes Between Plasma, the Interstitium and Intracellular Fluid
Authors: Woodcock Thomas
Published: November 2023

This chapter focuses on the compartmentalization of body water and its solutes, which is essential for understanding the physiology of body fluid spaces. The modern view of body fluid circulation is an actively pumped double circulation of extracellular fluid that enables solutes to be transferred to and from the intracellular fluid. The different factors that determine fluid flux across cell membrane and microvascular permeability barriers will be discussed, including hydrostatic pressure differences and solute concentration gradients. The regulation of total body water volume and body sodium is also discussed, as well as the clinical relevance of non-osmotic sodium storage capacity in the interstitium. The importance of balancing body potassium and sodium is highlighted, which depends on an adequate availability of magnesium. Additionally, this chapter emphasizes the major contributors to plasma osmolality and the danger of rapid extracellular fluid osmolality changes. However, an alternative model of body water response to intravenous infusions is proposed based on evidence from surgical practice, suggesting that adaptive mechanisms exist to stabilize intracellular volume in the face of excessive fluid infusions. Overall, this chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the distribution and regulation of body water and its solutes, providing important new insights into fluid physiology.
Fluid Management in Paediatric Patients
Authors: Ghosh Sonali
Published: November 2023

In paediatric patients fluid management has various aspects that differ from adults. One of the reasons is the different physiology of body fluids in children. Dehydration occurs commonly in children and requires resuscitation. Administration of fluid resuscitation is essential in critically ill children. Early and appropriate resuscitation improves outcomes and reduces mortality in children. In this chapter, we present an evidence-based approach for fluid management in critically ill children.
Fluid Management in Liver Failure
Authors: Mekeirele Michaël , Wilmer Alexander
Published: November 2023

In this chapter, fluid management in both acute and acute-on chronic liver failure is discussed. For each pathology, the specific hemodynamic alterations are first described and followed by some general and specific considerations during hemodynamic optimization and evidence-based guidance in the choice of fluids.
Sodium and Chloride Balance in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Chatterjee Ranajit , Garg Ashutosh Kumar
Published: November 2023

This chapter discusses the importance of sodium and chloride balance in critically ill patients. Infusion of high amounts of chloride is associated with hyperchloremia and metabolic acidosis, while hypernatremia and hyperchloremia are associated with adverse outcomes. The use of 0.9% sodium chloride is not ideal as it results in a rise in serum chloride, and in brain-injured patients, large volumes of hypotonic solutions must be avoided to prevent cerebral swelling and intracranial hypertension. The use of ‘balanced’ solutions is suggested to reduce the development of hyperchloremic acidosis in brain-injured patients. Chloride is a key contributor to the strong ion difference (SID), and alterations in the chloride balance can have negative implications on acid-base status, renal function, and haemostasis. Further research is needed to understand the clinical consequences of disorders of chloride balance and concentration.
Fluid Management in COVID-19
Authors: Malbrain Manu L. N. G. , Ho Serene , Nasa Prashant , Wong Adrian
Published: November 2023

Upon initial presentation, most COVID-19 patients are in a stable haemodynamic state and typically do not require intravenous (IV) fluid resuscitation. The virus primarily affects the lungs, thus the initial focus is on providing oxygen and respiratory support to the patient. Although there is limited direct research on IV fluid management for COVID-19 patients, data from observational studies suggest that patients with COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) exhibit higher levels of extravascular lung water and require longer periods of mechanical ventilation the more positive the cumulative fluid balance. As a result, this chapter draws on evidence from studies on fluid management for non-COVID-19 ARDS patients and pathophysiology research on COVID-19 ARDS.
Understanding Heart-Lung Interactions: Concepts of Fluid Responsiveness
Authors: Singh Ajeet , Srinivasan Shrikanth
Published: November 2023

This chapter focuses on the impact of fluid administration and ventilation on hemodynamics in critically ill patients. The chapter emphasizes the importance of determining fluid responsiveness before administering fluids to avoid volume overload, which can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. The parameters for predicting fluid responsiveness are based on cyclic variations in respiration on cardiac filling and require an understanding of heart-lung interactions. The chapter discusses the basics of respiratory and cardio-circulatory physiology, including the two components of the cardiovascular system (the circuit and pump), and how they are affected by transmural pressure. It will discuss the different functional hemodynamic monitoring tools with their indications and pitfalls. A thorough understanding of the effects of spontaneous and positive pressure ventilation on the cardiovascular system is important for anticipating and predicting hemodynamic effects after fluid administration and developing strategies to avoid or treat fluid infusion-related complications.
Acid-Base Homeostasis: Traditional Approach
Authors: Ghosh Supradip
Published: November 2023

Traditional approach (or so-called physiological approach) to acid-base interpretation is based on the concept provided by Henderson and Hasselbalch (and the equation provided by them). According to this concept, partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) and bicarbonate ion (HCO3−) in plasma are the two independent predictors of acid-base homeostasis, and any changes in their plasma concentration produces respiratory and metabolic disorders, respectively. This approach provides a number of empirical formulae to further interpret the presence of multiple acid-base disorders (if any). Despite its several limitations, this approach still remains the most widely used acid-base interpretation tool across the globe for its familiarity amongst practitioners and its ability to interpret vast majority of acid-base disorders.
Acid Base Homeostasis: Stewart Approach at the Bedside
Authors: Ghosh Supradip
Published: November 2023

Despite its simplicity and wide availability, traditional approach fails to provide us with an insight into mechanisms of acid base abnormalities or accurately quantify individual components of it or provide clinician with an approach to decide probable ways to rectify the problem (if necessary). Sometimes, traditional approach fails to identify complex acid base disorders seen in critically ill patients. The approach to acid base disorders provided by Peter Stewart is based on robust physicochemical evidence. Stewart approach identified three independent variables that determine acid base homeostasis—total carbon di-oxide, strong ion difference (SID), and total nonvolatile acid anion (Atot). Fencl provided some simple calculations to measure these independent variables at the bedside. Stewart approach provides us with an insight into the acid base abnormalities and helps us in quantifying individual components producing any disturbance and measures to be taken to rectify them (if needed). Stewart’s approach is also useful in understanding effects of different intravenous fluids on acid base physiology of plasma.
The 4-indications of Fluid Therapy: Resuscitation, Replacement, Maintenance and Nutrition Fluids, and Beyond
Authors: Malbrain Manu L. N. G. , Mekeirele Michaël , Raes Matthias , Hendrickx Steven , Ghijselings Idris , Malbrain Luca , Wong Adrian
Published: November 2023

The administration of intravenous (IV) fluids in critically ill patients remains a major therapeutic challenge. While there are many questions regarding the type, properties, speed, dose, and timing of fluid administration, there are only four major indications for their use: resuscitation, replacement, maintenance, and nutrition. In addition to these indications, IV fluids can also be used as carriers for medications. This chapter not only discusses the major indications for fluid therapy but also delves into different fluid management strategies, including early adequate goal-directed fluid management (EAFM), late conservative fluid management (LCFM), and late goal-directed fluid removal (LGFR). The concept of the six D’s of fluid therapy (diagnosis, drug, dosing, duration, de-escalation, and discharge) is also explored. This chapter aims to provide clinicians with a comprehensive understanding of IV fluid therapy beyond the traditional four indications.