bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioactive glass and arginine dentifrices reduce root sensitivity during daily activities following non‐surgical periodontal therapy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Champaiboon Chantrakorn , Ongphichetmetha Napassorn , Lertpimonchai Attawood
Published: July 2023

Background

Evidence on the efficacy of calcium sodium phosphosilicate (CSPS) and arginine dentifrices on reducing root sensitivity (RS) following non‐surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) is limited. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of these dentifrices in reducing RS during daily activities in patients undergoing NSPT.

Methods

Using a double‐blind randomized controlled trial, CSPS, arginine, or control dentifrices were randomly assigned to 45 RS individuals following NSPT. The participants used the dentifrices 2×/day for 8 weeks. A self‐reported visual analog scale (VAS) was assessed during daily activities.

Results

Self‐reported VAS scores were similar among the three groups at each time point. The with‐in group analysis revealed that the arginine dentifrice reduced RS from Week 1–8 compared with baseline in response to cold. Similarly, the CSPS dentifrice reduced RS at Week 4 and 8. The CSPS and arginine dentifrices exhibited RS relief resulting from toothbrushing starting at Week 4 and 2, respectively. In response to air, RS relief was observed from Week 4 in the arginine group. The number of patients with VAS > 2 in response to cold declined at Week 2 and 4 in the CSPS and arginine groups, respectively. In response to toothbrushing, only 10% in the test groups still had RS at Week 8. In response to air, the number of RS patients only in the arginine group decreased at Week 4.

Conclusion

The CSPS and arginine dentifrices provided comparable RS relief during daily activities within 2–4 weeks and remained effective up to 8 weeks.
Strengths and challenges with spiritual care: Student feedback from the EPICC Spiritual Care Self‐Assessment Tool
Authors: Cone Pamela H. , Lassche‐Scheffer Joanne , Bø Bodil , Kuven Britt Moene , McSherry Wilfred , Owusu Benson , Ross Linda , Schep‐Akkerman Annemiek , Ueland Venke , Giske Tove
Published: July 2023

Aim

To explore qualitative data from students' self‐reported competencies in spiritual care gathered during testing of a student self‐assessment tool based on the EPICC Spiritual Care Education Standard.

Design

Reflexive thematic analysis of qualitative data from a multinational study on validating a new self‐assessment tool.

Methods

The EPICC Spiritual Care Education Standard for competency in spiritual care was developed to enhance nurses' and midwives' ability to provide spiritual care by creating a baccalaureate education standard for spiritual care competencies. Spiritual care researchers then developed a self‐assessment tool to raise student awareness of spirituality and track personal and professional growth in spiritual care competency. The EPICC Spiritual Care Competency Self‐Assessment Tool, tested at eight universities in five countries, provided many opportunities for student comments, resulting in rich qualitative data presented here.

Results

Themes related to strengths, weaknesses and areas for improvement. Identified strengths were similar across countries: caring attitudes, general knowledge of caring and compassion and good communication skills. Weaknesses/challenges touched on spirituality as overlooked in some cultures but part of life for others, complex questions were hard to understand, and self‐assessment tools are common for some and rare for others. Areas for improvement included need for knowledge of religious and other deeply held beliefs and for greater spiritual assessment skills. Similarities across countries related to basic training in communication and compassionate care for nurses globally. Differences lay in the challenges and/or barriers for spiritual care and may relate to cultures within countries and/or university test sites.

Relevance to clinical practice

The Tool raises awareness of spirituality among students and working nurses, providing an accessible way to self‐check personal and professional growth in spiritual care competencies, which increases student and nurse capacity to become more knowledgeable and skilled in facilitating spiritual care, thus be role models for students at the intersection of spirituality and health.
Gate Voltage Oscillation Model and Suppression Method for Enhancement‐Mode GaN Devices in Half‐Bridge Circuits
Authors: Luo Pan , Li Jiamao , Zhao Yaopeng , Li Jia , Wang Chong , Yang Lei , Wen Haibing , Cui Huanqing
Published: July 2023

This article analyzes the issue of gate voltage oscillations in AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors based on the half‐bridge circuit. With the influence of the parasitic parameters, the variation of high drain‐source voltage (Vds) can affect the gate‐source voltage (Vgs), thus resulting in serious gate voltage oscillations, which may cause over‐voltage, false turn‐on/off, and even gate breakdown. A large‐signal model is proposed to study this oscillations phenomenon. The oscillation model of Vgs is proposed as a step response of Vds. Based on the model, the influence of Vds and circuit parameters on Vgs are investigated, and guidelines to suppress the oscillation are given. Reducing the gate and power loop inductance in PCB wiring and increasing the gate resistance of inactive switch can significantly suppress the oscillation. Finally, the model is verified by both simulation results and experimental results.
Atom Probe Tomography Advances Chalcogenide Phase‐Change and Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Yu Yuan , Cojocaru-Mirédin Oana , Wuttig Matthias
Published: July 2023

Main‐group chalcogenides show outstanding performance for phase‐change data storage and thermoelectric energy conversion applications. A common denominator for these different property requirements is ascribed to the metavalent bonding (MVB) mechanism. Atom probe tomography (APT) provides a unique way to distinguish MVB from other bonding mechanisms by determining the bond‐breaking behavior. Specifically, an unusually high probability to dislodge several fragments upon one successful laser pulse (probability of multiple events [PME]) is found in metavalently bonded crystalline phase‐change and thermoelectric materials. In contrast, amorphous phase‐change materials and poor thermoelectrics usually show lower PME values. This indicates that the large optical and electrical contrast between the crystalline and amorphous chalcogenides is attributed to a transition of chemical bonding. A strong correlation between high thermoelectric performance and large PME is also established. Besides, APT can investigate structural defects on the subnanometer scale. These characteristics reveal the interdiffusion of elements in interfacial phase‐change materials and revisit its switching mechanism. The complex role of structural defects such as grain boundaries in tuning the thermoelectric properties can also be unraveled by investigating the local composition and bonding mechanism at defects. This review demonstrates that APT is a powerful technique for designing phase‐change and thermoelectric materials.
Adherence, per‐protocol effects, and the estimands framework
Authors: Keene Oliver
Published: July 2023

In the statistical literature, treatment effects in clinical trials are frequently described as either ITT or per‐protocol effects. The estimand given for the per‐protocol effect is the effect in adherers, where adherers are typically defined as adhering to the intervention as specified in the trial protocol. This dichotomy of treatment effects is unhelpful when there are in reality multiple treatment effects that can be of clinical interest and relevance. The terms “per‐protocol” and “adherence” are confusing to non‐statisticians. Protocols always allow for discontinuation of randomized treatment so participants discontinuing have actually followed the protocol. When rescue or additional medication is available, the effect in adherers could mean the effect regardless of use of these medications or the effect in a counterfactual world where the participant did not take the medication. Adherence can mean continuing to be prescribed a treatment or some arbitrary level of compliance with a medication that has been prescribed. The ICH E9 (R1) estimands framework provides an improved alternative for the description of treatment effects in clinical trials. Identification of important intercurrent events and the strategy used to handle these events is key to determining the treatment effect. When designing a trial, estimands should be properly defined according to this framework. It is time the statistical literature abandoned describing treatment effects as the effect in adherers or the per‐protocol effect.
Solution of boundary eigenvalue problems and IBVP involving a system of PDEs using the successive linearization method
Authors: Narayana M. , Siddheshwar P. G.
Published: July 2023

The paper illustrates a numerical technique to solve a system of three partial differential equations that govern the problem of Rayleigh‐Bénard‐Brinkman convection in a two‐dimensional porous rectangular box. As a result of linear and weakly nonlinear stability analyses of the system a boundary eigenvalue problem (BEVP) and an initial boundary value problem (IBVP) arise. Spatial information on the periodicity of the convection cells is first used in the system of PDEs to make it possible for the successive linearization method (SLM) to be applied. The resulting much‐simplified versions of BEVP and the IVP are then solved by direct and time multi‐stepping versions of SLM, respectively. The SLM solution of the BEVP is compared with that obtained through MATLAB routine bvp4c and the multi‐stepping‐SLM solution of the IVP is validated with that of the Runge‐Kutta‐Fehlberg (RKF45) method (using MATLAB routine ode45). The present numerical technique is found to have quadratic convergence for any desired accuracy.
Heat transfer and flow analysis over a linearly stretching sheet with constant wall temperature: Novel local non‐similar solutions in the presence of viscous heating
Authors: Afridi Muhammad Idrees , Chen Zhi‐Min , Riaz Nadia , Qasim Muhammad
Published: July 2023

Flow over a linearly stretching sheet having constant temperature is examined in this article. The effects of frictional heating (viscous dissipation) and Ohmic heating (Joule dissipation) are also studied. As evidenced by the literature, energy equations are not always self‐similar when viscous dissipation is considered. It strongly depends on the form of stretching velocity and the surface temperature of the sheet. To facilitate the similarity transformations in these cases, one must find a constraint between the sheet velocity and the surface temperature. It is also observed that for the linearly stretching sheet with constant wall temperature, it is not possible to achieve self‐similar equations because in this case, a local variable appears in the viscous dissipation parameter. Hence, this problem corresponds to the non‐similar flow. In this analysis, pseudo‐similarity transformation is employed, and the viscous dissipation parameter is selected as a non‐similarity variable. Governing equations are transferred into non‐similar forms then a method known as Sparrow‐Quack‐Boerner (SQB) local non‐similarity (LNS) is used to derive the equations up to the second level of truncations which are then solved numerically. The slope linear regression (SLR) technique is used to compare the solutions obtained from the equations of the first and second levels of truncation.
Does variation of surgical technique affect native tissue anterior pelvic organ prolapse repair outcomes?
Authors: Fairclough Emily , Segar Julia , Breeman Suzanne , Smith Anthony , Myers Jenny , Reid Fiona
Published: July 2023

Introduction and hypothesis

The Variation in Surgical Technique study (VaST), demonstrated the large variation in surgical techniques used in native tissue (NT) anterior pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repairs. However, there are few comparative studies of different surgical techniques. This study was aimed at exploring whether surgical technique influenced the outcomes of NT anterior POP repairs.

Methods

The surgical techniques of 22 consultant surgeons performing NT anterior POP repairs were filmed and categorised. These surgeons performed 809 anterior repairs within the PROlapse Surgery: Pragmatic Evaluation and randomised Controlled Trial (PROSPECT). Logistical regression models were used to determine the influence of the different surgical techniques on subjective and objective outcomes, using data collected during PROSPECT.

Results

In adjusted multivariate linear regression models, fascial-flap repair was associated with an improved subjective outcome (POP-SS) compared with midline plication (β = −2.50 [−4.42 to −0.57]; p = 0.01). At 12 months, separate fascial defect repair was associated with a poorer objective outcome than midline plication (OR 6.06 [1.82–3.52], p = 0.006). At 24 months, deep dissection was associated with a poorer POP-SS than superficial dissection (0.32–2.60, p = 0.0). Continuous-locking closure of the skin was also associated with improved POP-SS compared with continuous non-locking closure (12 months: β = −1.94 [−3.42 to −0.45], p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Surgical technique may influence the outcome of native tissue anterior POP repairs. Our results should not change practice but inform future research; to develop methods of explicitly recording surgical techniques and allow confirmation of the effect of these aspects of technique on outcome.
The renaissance of ordoliberalism in the 1970s and 1980s﻿*
Authors: Krieger Tim , Nientiedt Daniel
Published: July 2023

The economic tradition of ordoliberalism, understood as the theoretical and policy ideas of the Freiburg School, emerged in 1930s and 1940s Germany. In the years thereafter, it was quickly superseded by Keynesianism and other theories imported from the English-speaking world. The crisis in Keynesian economics in the mid-1970s led to what has been described as a “renaissance of ordoliberal reasoning” (Gebhard Kirchgässner) during the late 1970s and the 1980s. The present paper describes this development in detail and shows how it affected the academic discourse and, more indirectly, policymaking. In academic economics, ordoliberal concepts were used to inform debates about pressing issues of the day such as unemployment, social security reform, competition policy, the provision of public goods, and European integration. There was, however, no consensus on the methodological question of whether ordoliberalism could be fully integrated into international research programs such as the new institutional economics or constitutional economics. The paper argues that the renaissance of ordoliberalism failed to have a lasting impact on German academic economics and discusses possible implications of this finding for the future of the ordoliberal research agenda.
GPU-Based Algorithms for Processing the k Nearest-Neighbor Query on Spatial Data Using Partitioning and Concurrent Kernel Execution
Authors: Velentzas Polychronis , Vassilakopoulos Michael , Corral Antonio , Antonopoulos Christos
Published: July 2023

Algorithms for answering the k nearest-neighbor (k-NN) query are widely used for queries in spatial databases and for distance classification of a group of query points against a reference dataset to derive the dominating feature class. GPU devices have significantly more processing cores than CPUs and faster device memory than the main memory accessed by CPUs, thus, providing higher computing power for processing demanding queries like the k-NN. However, since device and/or main memory may not be able to host an entire, rather big, reference and query datasets, storing these datasets in a fast secondary device, like a solid state disk (SSD), and partially retrieve the required, at each stage, partitions is, in many practical cases, a feasible solution. We propose and implement the first GPU-based algorithms for processing the k-NN query for big reference and query spatial data stored on SSDs. Based on 3d synthetic and real big spatial data, we experimentally compare these algorithms and highlight the most efficient algorithmic variation. This variation utilizes a CUDA feature known as Concurrent Kernel Execution, to further improve its performance.
Factors associated with non-initiation of osteoporosis pharmacotherapy after hip fracture: analysis of claims data in Japan
Authors: Fujii Tomoko , Mori Takahiro , Komiyama Jun , Kuroda Naoaki , Tamiya Nanako
Published: July 2023

Summary

In an analysis of claims data from a city in Japan, male patients and patients with dementia were less likely to receive osteoporosis pharmacotherapy after hip fracture. Treatment initiation rate has improved between 2014 and 2017.

Purpose

Older adults with recent hip fractures are at a high risk of recurrent fractures. However, the post-fracture care gap has been reported globally. This study examines factors associated with pharmacotherapy non-initiation within 1 year after hip surgery.

Methods

Using medical and long-term care (LTC) claims, and LTC needs certification data in Tsukuba City, Japan, we identified individuals aged 65 years or older who had hip fractures with subsequent surgical procedures between October 1, 2014, and December 31, 2017. Patient (age, sex, dementia, and comorbidities) and health service–related characteristics (fiscal year, type of hospital, number of hospital beds, and admission to recovery phase rehabilitation wards) were examined. The association of these factors with non-pharmacotherapy for osteoporosis within 1 year after hip fracture using multivariable logistic models was analyzed.

Results

We identified 275 patients with hip fractures who did not receive pharmacotherapy pre-fracture. Forty percent of them received pharmacotherapy within 1 year of post-fracture. Male sex (odds ratio (OR) = 4.49 [2.14–9.44]) and dementia (OR = 1.90 [1.03–3.52]) were associated with no pharmacotherapy, whereas later fiscal year (OR = 0.64 [0.48–0.87]) and admission to rehabilitation wards (OR = 0.25 [0.14–0.46]) were associated with pharmacotherapy initiation within 1 year of post-fracture. Comorbidities were not associated with the initiation of pharmacotherapy.

Conclusion

Pharmacotherapy for osteoporosis was less likely to be initiated after a hip fracture in male patients and patients with dementia. These patients should be considered for pharmacotherapy because they are at high risk of recurrent fractures.
Gravity assist space pruning and global optimization of spacecraft trajectories for solar system boundary exploration
Authors: Song Yuqi , Wu Weiren , Hu Hang , Lin Mingpei , Wang Hui , Zhang Jinxiu
Published: July 2023

The solar system boundary exploration mission has the characteristics of long flight time, high fuel consumption, complex gravity-assist sequence and strict constraints. Therefore, the number of decision variables and the search space of the transfer trajectory are very large, resulting in poor convergence and efficiency of the global search of the metaheuristic algorithm. Moreover, the existing gravity assist space pruning algorithm is no longer applicable for solar system boundary exploration. To effectively reduce the search space and improve the effect of trajectory optimization, an improved gravity assist space pruning algorithm is proposed. In this algorithm, a unique pruning procedure is used to effectively prune the search space, a shape of solution space box bounds combining rectangle and rhombus is adopted, and a method to automatically determine the solution space box bounds is presented. To verify the effectiveness of the improved gravity assist space pruning algorithm, the sensitivity of pruning effect to parameters is analyzed and the optimization effects of three typical metaheuristics are compared. The optimization results of 50 repeated runs of the differential evolution algorithm in the entire search space and the solution space box bounds are compared. Simulation results show that the performance of differential evolution algorithm is better than bat algorithm and firefly algorithm. And the improved pruning algorithm can increase the efficiency of subsequent optimization by more than eleven times and the convergence probability of the objective function by fifty of times. The applicability and efficiency of the proposed method for the solar system boundary exploration are demonstrated.
Trends in Routine Checkup Within the Past Year Following a Hurricane
Authors: Stimpson Jim P. , Lopez Mercado Damaris , Rivera-González Alexandra C. , Ortega Alexander N.
Published: July 2023

The goal of this nationally representative, cross-sectional study is to evaluate the trends in routine checkup within the last year associated with exposure to a hurricane. We compared Puerto Rico (2017 Hurricane Irma, Hurricane Maria), Texas (2017 Hurricane Harvey), and Florida (2017 Hurricane Irma, Hurricane 2018 Michael) with states that had a category 1-2 hurricane make landfall from 2014 to 2019: Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina. We found that states impacted by a major hurricane in 2017 had a drop in routine checkup while the states that experienced a category 1-2 landfall did have a change in that year. By the following year, all states reported an increase in routine checkup suggesting that the disruption in routine care was temporary.
Synaptic transistor with multiple biological functions based on metal-organic frameworks combined with the LIF model of a spiking neural network to recognize temporal information
Authors: Wang Qinan , Zhao Chun , Sun Yi , Xu Rongxuan , Li Chenran , Wang Chengbo , Liu Wen , Gu Jiangmin , Shi Yingli , Yang Li , Tu Xin , Gao Hao , Wen Zhen
Published: July 2023

Spiking neural networks (SNNs) have immense potential due to their utilization of synaptic plasticity and ability to take advantage of temporal correlation and low power consumption. The leaky integration and firing (LIF) model and spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) are the fundamental components of SNNs. Here, a neural device is first demonstrated by zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) as an essential part of the synaptic transistor to simulate SNNs. Significantly, three kinds of typical functions between neurons, the memory function achieved through the hippocampus, synaptic weight regulation and membrane potential triggered by ion migration, are effectively described through short-term memory/long-term memory (STM/LTM), long-term depression/long-term potentiation (LTD/LTP) and LIF, respectively. Furthermore, the update rule of iteration weight in the backpropagation based on the time interval between presynaptic and postsynaptic pulses is extracted and fitted from the STDP. In addition, the postsynaptic currents of the channel directly connect to the very large scale integration (VLSI) implementation of the LIF mode that can convert high-frequency information into spare pulses based on the threshold of membrane potential. The leaky integrator block, firing/detector block and frequency adaptation block instantaneously release the accumulated voltage to form pulses. Finally, we recode the steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) belonging to the electroencephalogram (EEG) with filter characteristics of LIF. SNNs deeply fused by synaptic transistors are designed to recognize the 40 different frequencies of EEG and improve accuracy to 95.1%. This work represents an advanced contribution to brain-like chips and promotes the systematization and diversification of artificial intelligence.
Growth exponents reflect evolutionary processes and treatment response in brain metastases
Authors: Ocaña-Tienda Beatriz , Pérez-Beteta Julián , Jiménez-Sánchez Juan , Molina-García David , Ortiz de Mendivil Ana , Asenjo Beatriz , Albillo David , Pérez-Romasanta Luis A. , Valiente Manuel , Zhu Lucía , García-Gómez Pedro , González-Del Portillo Elisabet , Llorente Manuel , Carballo Natalia , Arana Estanislao , Pérez-García Víctor M.
Published: July 2023

Tumor growth is the result of the interplay of complex biological processes in huge numbers of individual cells living in changing environments. Effective simple mathematical laws have been shown to describe tumor growth in vitro, or simple animal models with bounded-growth dynamics accurately. However, results for the growth of human cancers in patients are scarce. Our study mined a large dataset of 1133 brain metastases (BMs) with longitudinal imaging follow-up to find growth laws for untreated BMs and recurrent treated BMs. Untreated BMs showed high growth exponents, most likely related to the underlying evolutionary dynamics, with experimental tumors in mice resembling accurately the disease. Recurrent BMs growth exponents were smaller, most probably due to a reduction in tumor heterogeneity after treatment, which may limit the tumor evolutionary capabilities. In silico simulations using a stochastic discrete mesoscopic model with basic evolutionary dynamics led to results in line with the observed data.
Rationalizing mineral gypsum use through microbially enriched municipal solid waste compost for amelioration and regaining productivity potential of degraded alkali soils
Authors: Singh Yash Pal , Arora Sanjay , Mishra Vinay Kumar , Singh Atul Kumar
Published: July 2023

Reclamation of alkali soils to harness their productivity potential is more complex due to the presence of excess sodium ions, poor hydraulic conductivity and infiltration rate, resulting in poor plant growth and crop productivity. Sodic soil reclamation using inorganic ameliorants like mineral gypsum or phosphogypsum is beyond the reach of small and marginal farmers having alkali soils because of their higher market prices and shortage of availability. Conjoint use of inorganic and organic amendments can be a pragmatic solution for improving soil physico-chemical and biological properties and sustaining crop productivity. Municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) available in abundant quantity if enriched with the efficient halophilic microbial consortium and used in conjunction with a reduced dose of gypsum can be a cost-effective approach for sustainable reclamation of alkali soils and harnessing their productivity potential. Hence, a field experiment was conducted on a high alkali soil (pH29.2 ± 0.10), electrical conductivity (EC) 1.14 ±  0.12﻿ dS m−1, exchangeable sodium percentage 48 ± 2.50 and organic carbon (0.30%) was conducted during 2018–19 to 2020–21 to study the combined effect inorganic and organic (enriched municipal solid waste compost (EMSWC)) amendments on amelioration of alkali soils and sustaining productivity of rice–wheat cropping system. Application of gypsum @ 25% GR + enriched MSW compost @ 10 t ha−1(T6) showed significant improvement in soil physico-chemical and biological properties over the sole application of organic (T3and T4), inorganic (T2) and control (T1). A significant improvement in soil fertility status in terms of available nitrogen and micronutrients as well as CO3,HCO3, Cl, Ca and Mg content were recorded with the combined application of organic and inorganic soil amendments (T5and T6) over the sole application of mineral gypsum. Soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC), nitrogen (MBN) and phosphorus (MBP) improved significantly due to the application of EMSWC with gypsum over the application of gypsum only. Grain yield of rice and wheat increased significantly (P < 0.05) owing to the application of a reduced dose of gypsum (25% GR) and EMSWC @ 10 t ha−1(T6) with values of 5.55 and 3.83 t ha−1, respectively over rest of the treatments. Three years economic analysis of the study revealed that treatments T6and T5gave the highest positive net return whereas it was lowest in treatment T1and negative in treatment T2. The highest benefit-to-cost ratio (B:C) was obtained in treatments T6and T5which were significantly higher compared to the rest of the treatments.
Effect of aerobic and resistance exercise training on endothelial function in individuals with overweight and obesity: a systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Cortes Maiquel Bueno , da Silva Raphael Silveira Nunes , de Oliveira Patrícia Caetano , da Silva Diego Silveira , Irigoyen Maria Claudia Costa , Waclawovsky Gustavo , Schaun Maximiliano Isoppo
Published: July 2023

The objective of this systematic review was to examine the effects of exercise training on endothelial function in individuals with overweight and obesity. Our review study included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving adults (≥ 18 years of age) with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25.0 kg/m2. Our search was conducted in the electronic bases MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane, LILACS and EMBASE and in the gray literature. We performed random-effects analyses for effect estimates and used 95% prediction intervals (95% PI) for estimating the uncertainty of the study results. There were selected 10 RCTs involving 14 groups (n = 400). The quality assessment of studies using Cochrane risk-of-bias 2 (RoB 2) tool identified some concerns. Exercise training resulted in improved flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in individuals with overweight and obesity (p < 0.001) compared to the no-exercise control group. This effect of training modalities on FMD was seen for aerobic training (p < 0.001) but not for resistance training (p = 0.051). There was no difference in FMD in response to exercise training by BMI classification (overweight, obesity, overweight + obesity), p = 0.793. The present results are consistent with the notion that aerobic exercise training elicits favorable adaptations in endothelial function in individuals with overweight and obesity. Our findings should be interpreted with caution because of the small number of studies included in this review.
Preclinical characterization of the efficacy and safety of biologic N-001 as a novel pain analgesic for post-operative acute pain treatment
Authors: Allen Derek , Hanumantharao Samerender Nagam , McDonell Rylie , Irvine Karen-Amanda , Sahbaie Peyman , Clark David , Blum Paul
Published: July 2023

Inhibition of actin remodeling in nerves modulates action potential propagation and therefore could be used to treat acute pain. N-001 is a novel protein analgesic engineered from several C. Botulinum toxins. N-001 targets sensory neurons through ganglioside GT1b binding and ADP-ribosylates G-actin reducing actin remodeling. The activity and efficacy of N-001 was evaluated previously in vitro and in a mouse inflammatory pain model. To assess the relevance of N-001 for treatment of acute post-surgical pain, the current study evaluated the efficacy of N-001 in a mouse hind-paw incision model by peri-incisional and popliteal nerve block administration combined with mechanical testing. N-001 provided relief of pain-like behavior over 3 days and 2 days longer than the conventional long-acting anesthetic bupivacaine. Preclinical safety studies of N-001 indicated the drug produced no toxic or adverse immunological reactions over multiple doses in mice. These results combined with past targeting results encourage further investigation of N-001 as an analgesic for post-operative pain management with the potential to function as a differential nociceptor-specific nerve block.
Sleep Quality after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: Comparing Pulsatile and Nonpulsatile Pump Flow
Authors: Mirmohammadsadeghi Amir , Jahannama Nahid , Mirmohammadsadeghi Mohsen
Published: July 2023

Poor postoperative sleep quality is a common problem in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of pulsatile and nonpulsatile pump flow on sleep quality of these patients. In this clinical trial, 52 patients undergoing on pump CABG surgery with the roller pump were randomly divided into two equal groups of 26 patients: group 1 using pulsatile pump flow and group 2 nonpulsatile pump flow while the heart was arrested. Sleep score of both groups was evaluated by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire 2 days before operation and 1 month after operation, and they were compared with each other. Analysis was performed with SPSS software version 22 (SPSS for Windows Inc., Chicago, IL) using the independentt-test, chi-square test, and Fisher exact test. Both groups were the same in demographic characteristics and risk factors such as age, gender, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, smoking, body mass index, and preoperative ejection fraction. Operation data showed no difference between two groups considering cardiopulmonary bypass time and cardiac arrest time. Preoperative sleep quality score of both groups had no significant difference (p= .84). One month postoperative sleep quality score of the pulsatile group was significantly better than that of the nonpulsatile group (p= .04). Using pulsatile flow cardiopulmonary bypass can effectively decrease postoperative sleep disorders in comparison to nonpulsatile flow.
Hybrid Left Heart Bypass Circuit for Repair of the Descending Aorta in an 8-kg Williams Syndrome Patient
Authors: Matte Gregory S. , Regan William L. , Connor Kevin R. , Daaboul Dima G. , Hoganson David M. , Quinonez Luis G.
Published: July 2023

A 1-year old male patient with Williams syndrome and multiple prior interventions presented for surgical repair of his descending aorta (DA) through a left thoracotomy. Concerns for significant bleeding and spinal cord protection led the care team to consider a left heart bypass (LHB) circuit with options for pump sucker use, heat exchange capacity, and the possibility of converting to traditional cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). A traditional CPB circuit with a roller-head arterial pump was assembled with a bypass line around the cardiotomy venous reservoir (CVR). Excluding the CVR with this line allowed for a closed LHB circuit. A second pump head was integrated to both recirculate the CVR volume and to serve as a means for controlled volume administration to the closed LHB circuit. Pump sucker return directed to the CVR could easily be transfused back to the patient. The patient was placed on the hybrid LHB circuit and cooled to 32°C. DA clamps were placed. Upper body dynamic blood pressure was managed for a target mean of 50 mmHg, the left atrial pressure (LAP) was maintained in the 5–7 mmHg range, and the nonpulsatile lower body blood pressure was targeted at 40–50 mmHg. Cerebral near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) helped guide volume and pressure management. The surgeons placed two long-segment patches on the DA, moving clamps as needed. The patient was rewarmed and separated from the hybrid LHB circuit after 82 minutes. Closed circuit LHB can be provided with a roller-head hybrid circuit incorporating an oxygenator for gas exchange, central cooling and warming, and arterial line filtration along with a CVR for pump sucker use and controlled transfusion to the patient.
Biophotonics technologies for the detection of VOCs in healthcare applications: Are we there yet?
Authors: Zhang Shuyan , Vinod Ram Keertana , Chua Ran Zhi Tong , Foo Jodie Chuan Yue , Perumal Jayakumar , Dinish U. S. , Olivo Malini
Published: July 2023

The detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) has emerged as one of the most promising diagnostic approaches in the field of medicine. For example, human breath contains endogenous volatiles that could be potential biomarkers. The demand for the cost-effective, noninvasive, and sensitive detection of VOCs has increased significantly following the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Typically, VOCs are detected using the gold-standard technology of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, but this equipment can be bulky and expensive outside of laboratory settings. In this context, biophotonics (or optical) technologies play a crucial role as they can provide highly sensitive detection of VOCs in a cost-effective manner and are suitable for developing point-of-care devices. This review critically and comprehensively analyzes the recent advancements (over the last decade) in biophotonics technologies for the detection of VOCs, such as surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, laser absorption spectroscopy, photoacoustic spectroscopy, and surface plasmon resonance, with a special focus on healthcare applications. Relative merits and demerits of these techniques are provided by comparing their sensitivity, limit of detection, and methodology in operation. Finally, the review highlights future perspectives on technical advancements and gaps in research that need to be addressed to translate these biophotonics technologies into a routine VOC-based disease diagnostic platform.
General teleparallel gravity from Finsler geometry
Authors: Tong Yeheng
Published: July 2023

Riemannian geometry, as a basis for general relativity, can be obtained from the more general Finsler geometry in terms of the Cartan connection and Chern connection, as discussed frequently in the literature. However, there are other gravity theories that can be made to be equivalent to general relativity but are based on non-Riemannian geometry. Famous examples are the Teleparallel and Symmetric Teleparallel gravity theories. In this paper, we show how to obtain the geometry for Teleparallel gravity from Finsler geometry in terms of a ‘Teleparallel type’ connection.
Alginate hydrogels containing different concentrations of magnesium-containing poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Wang Lizhe , Li Yaxin , Jiang Shuai , Zhang Zhihao , Zhao Sinan , Song Yuru , Liu Jie , Tan Fei
Published: July 2023

The easy loss of crosslinking ions in alginate can result in structural collapse and loss of its characteristics as a bone scaffold. A novel injectable tissue engineering scaffold containing poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres and alginate was fabricated to improve alginate’s physiochemical and biological properties. MgCO3 and MgO were loaded at a 1:1 ratio into PLGA microspheres to form biodegradable PLGA microspheres containing magnesium (PMg). Subsequently, different concentrations of PMg were mixed into a Ca2+ suspension and employed as crosslinking agents for an alginate hydrogel. A pure Ca2+ suspension was used as the alginate crosslinking agent in the control group. The influence of PMg on the physiochemical properties of the injectable scaffolds, including the surface morphology, degradation rate, Mg2+ precipitation concentration, and the swelling rate, was investigated. MC3T3-E1 cells were seeded onto the hydrogels to evaluate the effect of the resultant alginate on osteoblastic attachment, proliferation, and differentiation. The physicochemical properties of the hydrogels, including morphology, degradation rate, and swelling ratio, were effectively tuned by PMg. Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy results showed that, in contrast to those in pure PMg, the magnesium ions (Mg2+) in alginate hydrogel containing PMg microspheres (Alg-PMg) were released in a dose-dependent and slow-releasing manner. Additionally, Alg-PMg with an appropriate concentration of PMg not only improved cell attachment and proliferation but also upregulated alkaline phosphatase activity, gene expression of osteogenic markers, and related growth factors. These findings indicate that PMg incorporation can regulate the physicochemical properties of alginate hydrogels. The resultant hydrogel promoted cell attachment, matrix mineralization, and bone regeneration. The hydrogel described in this study can be considered a promising injectable scaffold for bone tissue engineering.
Comment on ‘Role of ultra-high-frequency ultrasound in the diagnosis and management of basal cell carcinoma: pilot study based on 117 cases’
Authors: Zhang Li-wen , Wu Juan , Chen Tao
Published: July 2023

The choice of ultrasound frequency depends on the condition of the lesions and the specific observation requirements. Ultrasound frequency ≥ 70 MHz would be more appropriate for small superficial basal cell carcinomas.
Effects of cold storage after cold acclimation on the fitness of Habrobracon hebetor (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
Authors: Wei Lan , Yang Mao-Fa , Huang Ning , Ou Hou-Ding , Wang Xiu-Qin , Huang Yao , Yu Xiao-Fei
Published: July 2023

Habrobracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a cosmopolitan, idiobiont, and gregarious ectoparasitoid, which can parasitize the larvae of several pyralid and noctuid moths. However, adult parasitoids require cold storage to ensure that adequate individuals are available when a pest outbreak occurs. To understand the effects of cold storage after acclimation on offspring fitness of H. hebetor, the development, fecundity, population parameters, and paralysis rate of the F1 generation were evaluated using an age–stage, two-sex life table. Four pairing treatments were used in this study, with refrigerated males and females (ReF×ReM), unrefrigerated females and refrigerated males (UnF×ReM), refrigerated females and unrefrigerated males (ReF×UnM), and unrefrigerated females and males (UnF×UnM, control). Cold storage after acclimation had no significant effect on the fecundity or oviposition period of F0-generation H. hebetor. Moreover, the survival rate (Sa = 61.43%), proportion of females (Nf/N = 0.41), intrinsic rate of increase (r = 0.3450), finite rate of increase (λ = 1.4121), net reproduction rate (R0 = 149.47), and net paralysis rate (C0 = 74.52) of ReF×UnM and UnF×UnM (Sa = 50.00%, Nf/N = 0.34, r = 0.3297, λ = 1.3881, R0 = 155.69, C0 = 62.90, respectively) treatments were significantly higher than those of the ReF×ReM treatment (Sa = 45%, Nf/N = 0.16, r = 0.2277, λ = 1.2558, R0 = 68.81, C0 = 31.61, respectively) (except for the Sa of UnF×UnM treatment), and there was no significant difference between the 2 treatments. Overall, it is advisable to avoid simultaneous cold storage of female and male parasitoids or to add unrefrigerated males appropriately when using cold-stored parasitoids to control pests.
Relative Density as a Standardizing Metric for the Development of Size-Density Management Charts
Authors: Ray David , Seymour Robert , Fraver Shawn , Berrill John-Pascal , Kenefic Laura , Rogers Nicole , Weiskittel Aaron
Published: July 2023

Stand density management is central to achieving diverse silvicultural objectives. Decision-support tools in this domain range from expert opinion to sophisticated computer models that vary by forest type, region, and organization. The graphical frameworks represented by density management diagrams (DMDs) and stocking guides (SGs), collectively called size-density management charts (SDMCs), are well established and balance quantitative rigor with user accessibility. Regional differences in species composition and site quality are known to influence maximum size-density relationships, historically limiting the development of reliable charts. Advances in statistical modeling and data availability are overcoming this issue and should encourage more widespread use. We briefly review the history of SDMCs and propose the adoption of relative density based on stand density index as a logical metric for linking the DMD and SG formats. Examples of SDMC construction and use are illustrated for spruce-fir stands in Maine, USA.

Study Implications: Recognition of the importance of stand density management has increased in recent years owing to its potential to address threats such as susceptibility to catastrophic wildfires and forest health issues exacerbated by environmental stress. Natural resource managers will benefit from adopting a language around density management that is both biologically grounded and consistent. A relative density framework is compatible with the two primary types of size-density management charts and thus meets this objective well. Relative density provides an ideal launching point for articulating levels of stand density, or stocking, to meet diverse management objectives determined under relevant socioecological constraints.
Positive outcome of diaphragm covering and total pleural covering techniques for catamenial pneumothorax
Authors: Koike Sachie , Kobayashi Nobutaka , Miyazawa Masahisa
Published: July 2023

Catamenial pneumothorax (CP) is reported to be caused by the endometriosis of diaphragm, lung and parietal pleura. Therefore, the resection of endometriotic lesion in these organs is reported as effective surgical treatment. Overlooking of endometrial tissues during the operation is believed to be the cause of recurrence after surgical treatment. To address this problem, we underwent total diaphragm covering (TDC) and total pleural covering with sheets of oxidized regenerated cellulose mesh. This report described two CP cases that underwent total diaphragm covering (TDC) and total pleural covering. Both patients were followed up for 1 year without recurrence.
A 6-year-old boy with an atypical liver neoplasm harboring a novel RPS6KA3 variant
Authors: Bustamante Daniel , Abadie Jude
Published: July 2023

Pediatric hepatoblastoma (HBL) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are primary liver malignant neoplasms with 5-year event-free survival of >80% and <30%, respectively. In these patients, α-fetoprotein levels can guide surgical intervention and monitor disease progression. Although histology and immunohistochemical stains support diagnosis, genetic testing can elucidate mechanisms that drive pathogenesis. Pediatric HBL and HCC harbor well-characterized molecular signatures such as alterations in CTNNB1, TERT, and AXIN1 that alter the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Approximately 8% of individuals with HCC harbor RPS6KA3 variants that appear with other gene mutations. Herein, we report a novel solitary pathogenic RPS6KA3 variant finding in a 6-year-old boy whose final diagnosis was hepatocellular malignant neoplasm, not otherwise specified.
A seminatural approach towards restoration, classification, and pattern extraction from heritage Hindi poetry: A probabilistic case study with Dohā chanda
Authors: Naaz Komal , Singh Niraj Kumar
Published: July 2023

Indian literary heritage is vast and is of great importance; to explore it, one has to devote them in studying dialects (Khariboli, Haryanavi, Brajbhasha, Awadhi, Bhojpuri, Marwari, etc.) especially when old Hindi is under the lens of observation. Chanda are poetic compositions that have well-defined structures. Dohā is a kind of chanda which, in our work, has been explored using Kabir’s compositions as a case study. Kabir represents the cult of poets who relied on oral means for the propagation and consumption of poetry. The poems were communicated to the later generation through simple acts of recitation and hearing, leading to obvious mutation and multiple versions of the same compositions when documented later and hence needs restoration (at least metrically). Using the knowledge from the state-of-art models metadata generator, Text2Mātrā, and RPaGen and extending beyond them, this article is first of its kind to present Kabir’s dohā within the scope of restoration, metrical computation, and statistics. Starting with the restoration process, the proposed algorithms generate data that are subjected to suitable statistical models. These models highlight the trends in the dataset, which is helpful in realizing abstract patterns inside the textual data.
Isolated angioedema due to face mask and other cases of isolated angioedema
Authors: Aksakal Sengul
Published: July 2023

Isolated angioedema can be divided into two groups as mast cell–mediated angioedema and bradykinin-mediated angioedema according to the known mechanisms of occurrence. However, angioedema can also occur with mechanisms whose cause is unknown. Treatment varies according to the mechanism of angioedema formation. In this prospective study, we present the causes of 80 isolated angioedema cases admitted to our clinic during the pandemic period. We would like to emphasize the causes that we found in our cases but which are rare in the literature. For example: angioedema due to allergy to nickel in the mask used during the pandemic period, T cell–mediated angioedema, alpha adrenergic receptor blocker use, and patients diagnosed with collagen tissue disease presenting with angioedema as the first clinical finding.