bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Absence of Fingerprints- A Case Series
Authors: Ferdous Jannatul , Hoque Rajiul , Islam Rafayel , Sharar Sanya
Published: November 2023

Background & objective: Biometric identification with the use of fingerprints being one of the most popular methods in recent times for identity verification all over the world, is extensively used to keep up records and getting through every legislative process in Bangladesh. This newly devised method of identity verification is exposing cases of genetically inherited adermatoglyphia (absence of fingerprints) also termed as, immigration delay disease. The disease is characterized by absence of fingerprints that are seeking legal attention to concerned authorities requiring an alternative standardized method of verification. Only a few isolated cases of the adermatoglyphia, where every offspring has 50% chance of having the disease in an autosomal dominant fashion, have been reported in the whole world till date. Hence an alternative method of verification is required to keep up authentic records for these people and their future generations. This case series study was done on newly identified suspected cases of genetically inherited adermatoglyphia, where six male members from one single-family are suffering from this disease. They are facing problems in everyday life as the absence of fingerprints is restricting them from accessing national ID card, sim card registration, passport, driving license & other services where biometric verification is mandatory to confirm the identity. 
Ibrahim Card Med J 2022; 12 (1): 64-68
Laparoscopic assisted transsanal endorectal pull-through procedure for Hirschsprung’s disease in children: Our experience
Authors: Hoque Md Mozammel , Hannan Md Jafrul
Published: November 2023

Background: Trans anal endorectal pullthrough procedure is primarily performed for rectosigmoid aganglionosis, generally with excellent results. There is evidence that overstreching the anus and tension traction in the sigmoid colon during the procedure could impair the continence of the patient. Trans anal pull-through for Hirschsprung’s disease with laparoscopic assistance is gaining popularity. We describe our early clinical results after laparoscopic assisted endorectal colon pull-through for Hirschsprung’s disease.

Materials and methods: From july 2013 to june 2016 ,a total of 28 patients were treated with Hirschsprung’s disease randomized for laparocopic assisted trans anal pull-through. Of which male were 18 and female 10 . Age ranged from 19 days to 3.5 years. The technique was 3 small (5mm) abdominal ports. A colon pedicle preserving the marginal artery is fashioned laparoscopically. The rectal mobilization is performed transanally using an endorectal sleeve technique. The anastomosis is performed transanally 1cm above the dentate line.

 Results: The median operative time was 125 min (range 110- 180min). Follow up period 15 days to 12months. Overall functional outcome was good in all cases. Three cases developed mild enterocolitis. One patient developed fecal incontinence and soiling.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic assisted colon pull-through for Hirschsprung’s disease is simple and easy to perform with minimal dissection which cause less damage to the internal sphincter and pelvic nerves.

Journal of Paediatric Surgeons of Bangladesh (2017) Vol. 8 (1): 20-23
Choledochal cyst and new Era in its management
Authors: Hasina Kaniz
Published: November 2023

Abstract not available
Journal of Paediatric Surgeons of Bangladesh (2017) Vol. 8 (1): 28-35
Dorsal double layer dartos flap in the Snodgrass technique of hypospadias repair: An experience in Dhaka Medical College Hospital
Authors: Das Sahadeb Kumar , Hasina Kaniz , Huq Md Ashraf Ul , Khan Jaglul Gaffer , Alam S M Shafiqul , Islam Md Tawhidul
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Hypospadias is one of the most common congenital anomalies and more than 300 operation techniques have been described for primary hypospadias. The Snodgrass technique and its modification have become a preferred for all varieties of hypospadias in the past decade. However fistula is the most common of this technique. The aim of the study is to investigate the importance of double layer dartos flap to prevent fistula formation in the Snodgrass technique.
Materials and Methods: It’s a retrospective study, among 52 patients aged 11 months to 144 months who underwent mid penile and distal hypospadias repair in the Snodgrass technique using dorsal dartos flap for neo-urethral coverage. This study was done in the Department of Pediatric Surgery in Dhaka Medical College & Hospital from November 2014 to December 2016.
Results: Urethrocutaneous (UC) fistula were encountered in 10 patients (19.23%), meatal stenosis in 3 patients (5.76%), partial glanular dehiscence in 1 patient and residual chordee in 1 patient.
Conclusions: For preventing fistula formation, urethral covering by a well vascularized dorsal double layer dartos flap should be the important part of the Snodgrass technique.
Journal of Paediatric Surgeons of Bangladesh (2017) Vol. 8 (2): 47-51
Sistema de Supervisión y Control de Rehervidores de Deshidratación de Gas: Caso Trenes A y B del Complejo Muscar
Authors: Ronceros Cristhian , Martinez Yuselys , Vega Ruben , Rodriguez Yenisbeth
Published: November 2023

El monitoreo y control del proceso de deshidratación de gas natural a través de los sistemas de supervisión y control de los rehervidores de deshidratación de gas son de gran importancia ya que facilita la eliminación de la humedad y otros contaminantes del gas para hacerlo apto para su uso. En este sentido, la presente propuesta proporciona un sistema de supervisión y control de deshidratación para los rehervidores de deshidratación de gas de la Planta Muscar de Petróleos de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA) que incluye la selección del controlador, el sistema de control, chasis y la integración de los diferentes componentes que la conforman. La automatización del proceso permite optimizar las condiciones del proceso de deshidratación, incluyendo la temperatura, la presión, el flujo de gas, el caudal de agua y los niveles de líquidos. Se desarrollaron las fases: visualizar, conceptualización y definir de la Guía de Gerencia de Proyectos de Inversión de Capital. La propuesta de la nueva arquitectura del sistema de supervisión y control de rehervidores de deshidratación de gas permite el monitoreo continuo de las condiciones del proceso de deshidratación, incluyendo la temperatura, la presión, el flujo de gas, el caudal de agua y los niveles de líquidos, así como también el incremento de los niveles de confiabilidad, minimización los accidentes inesperados y costo de mantenimientos correctivos.
Descolonizar la sociedad: reparación de la memoria de los otros en la historia colonial de España. Un asunto pendiente
Authors: Estaba Amaiz Roraima
Published: November 2023

La descolonización de la historia y los museos españoles precisa de un proceso previo que siente las bases para un diálogo crítico en esta materia. Este debería comprender inicialmente un cuestionamiento público sobre la responsabilidad de la sociedad española, pero también de la latinoamericana, sobre la forma cómo hemos contado nuestro pasado colonial hasta ahora y asimismo sobre cómo deberíamos transmitir en el futuro nuestra memoria común. En este proceso de revisión crítica y reflexiva de la producción de nuestro conocimiento histórico, los historiadores y los museos deben jugar un papel clave en la sensibilización y generación de opinión sobre la descolonización y reparación de nuestras memorias enfrentadas, como paso previo para la discusión de cuestiones conflictivas como la resignificación de los monumentos coloniales, la restitución de objetos o la reparación de la memoria de los Otros en nuestra historia común.
Pengembangan Chatbot Informasi Mahasiswa Berbasis Telegram dengan Metode Natural Language Processing
Authors: Chandra Alfan Adi , Nathaniel Vincent , Satura Fadlan Raka , Adhinata Faisal Dharma
Published: November 2023

Perkembangan teknologi IT menuntuk manusia untuk selalu berinovasi dalam memecahkan masalah. Sebagai contoh dikalangan mahasiswa sering adanya komunikasi antar mahasiswa. Mahasiswa sering berkomunikasi perihal mata kuliah yang diberikan dikampus, baik tugas-tugasnya maupun materi yang diajarkan dikelas. Saat ini telah ada aplikasi seperti Telegram yang memudahkan komunikasi mahasiswa. Pada telegram terdapat salah satu fitur bot yang memberikan pesan otomatis kepada pengguna. Disetiap kampus biasanya terdapat informasi jadwal mahasiswa, informasi kampus, biaya semester kuliah dan lainnya. Oleh karena itu kami membuat bot untuk menyediakan informasi tersebut menggunakan teknologi Artificial Intelligence (AI) khususnya pada bidang Natural Language Processing (NLP). Hasil rata-rata akurasi sistem bot yang kami kembangkan adalah 91%. Hasil ini menunjukkan sistem bot dapat membantu mahasiswa dalam memperoleh informasi yang akurat terkait dunia kampus.
Pendampingan Pemanfaatan Teknologi Informasi sebagai Upaya Digitalisasi Produk pada UMKM Omah Batik Sukun
Authors: Indana Luthfi , Sane Bastion Faruq , Efendi Kelvin Nur , Rahmawati Fitri , Haryono Dhanang Andryansah
Published: November 2023

Omah Batik Sukun is one of the MSMEs in batik production. This MSME experienced a decline in sales due to the influence of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. The pandemic for 2 years has caused orders and of course batik production to decrease. Based on this, the service team provides assistance in the use of information technology to increase sales of batik product. Digital marketing is used to promote and introduce to the wider community about batik product. The method used in this service is the method of consultation and science and technology diffusion. This method consists of 3 processes, namely pre-production, production and post-production processes. This service was carried out for 2 months, in January and February 2022. The result of this service activity was a video profile production which was uploaded to YouTube, an Instagram account containing Omah Batik Sukun MSME products and a digital catalogue. The impact of implementing this activity is that there is an increase in the knowledge of Batik Sukun MSME managers regarding digital marketing, an increase in sales of 30%, the number of buyers increasing to 3 cities, and the community starting to become familiar with this batik product, around 30% are starting to recognize this batik. ABSTRAKOmah Batik Sukun merupakan salah satu UMKM yang bergerak di bidang produksi batik. UMKM ini mengalami penurunan penjualan karena pengaruh pandemi covid-19 di tahun 2020 dan 2021. Pandemi selama 2 tahun ini menyebabkan pesanan dan juga tentu saja produksi batik berkurang. Berdasarkan hal tersebut, tim pengabdi melakukan pendampingan dalam pemanfaatan teknologi informasi untuk meningkatkan penjualan batik ini. Penggunaan digital marketing dimanfaatkan untuk mempromosikan sekaligus memperkenalkan ke masyarakat luas mengenai batik ini. Metode yang digunakan dalam pengabdian ini adalah metod konsultasi dan difusi iptek. Metode ini terdiri dari 3 proses, yaitu proses pra produksi, produksi dan pasca produksi. Pengabdian ini dilaksanakan selama 2 bulan, yaitu pada bulan Januari dan Februari 2022. Hasil dari kegiatan pengabdian ini adalah menghasilkan satu video profil yang sudah diunggah di youtube, akun Instagram yang berisi produk UMKM Omah Batik Sukun dan katalog digital. Dampak dari pelaksanaan kegiatan ini adalah adanya peningkatan pengetahuan pengelola UMKM Batik Sukun terkait digital marketing, peningkatan penjualan sebesar 30%, jumlah pembeli meningkat menjadi 3 kota, dan mulai dikenalnya produk batik ini di masyarakat yaitu sekitar 30% mulai mengenal batik ini.
Identity and Biographical Construction and Life Project: Perspectives according to High School Students in Brazil
Authors: Adam Joyce Mary
Published: November 2023

This paper is the result of a survey carried out in a public school in a city in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. We analyzed the Life Project module, a component of the high school curriculum in the Full Time Education Program (PEI). We concentrated on the analysis of the established principles, syllabuses, and students’ feelings regarding such content and the life project as a whole. This longitudinal research followed a group of ten students from their first to third years of high school at one school. Data were collected using discussion groups and analyzed based on critical discourse analysis. We found that the excessive focus on issues such as socio-emotional skills, social initiative, self-confidence, responsibility, empathy, determination, assertiveness, stress tolerance, confidence, and creative imagination placed too much responsibility on students and there was little reflection about the institutions responsible. Aspects such as public policies to support students in choosing a future profession by, for example, offering cultural and social experiences to help students expand their cultural and social capital or providing economic support to guarantee that students keep on studying, would constitute a real contribution for students to be able to build their life project, alongside identity and biographical construction.
A New Carbohydrate of Aquilaria Agallocha
Authors: TL Yang , HC Yeh , HT Li , SL Liu , CY Chen
Published: November 2023

A new carbohydrate, agalloside ((2R,3S,4R,5R,6S)-2-(hydroxymethyl)-6- methoxytetrahydro-2H-pyran-3,4,5- triol) (1) was isolated from the flowers of Aquilaria agallocha. The structure was elucidated on the basis of physical and spectral analysis.
The Human Gut Microbiome and the Dissemination of Antibiotic Resistant Microbes
Authors: Idahmed Abdrahman , Sneed Kevin B , Pathak Yashwant
Published: November 2023

As the impending danger of antibiotic resistance continues to rise, research into the largest reservoir of resistance genes is just starting to gain traction. The human gut microbiome represents a fundamental step in better understanding how antibiotic resistance develops, why it develops, and how it can be mitigated. Changing healthcare procedures and antibiotic prescriptions in pursuit of slowing down or outright preventing the arrival of a post-antibiotic era begins from infant’s care and that of their mothers, and extends long into their (hopefully healthy) lifetimes. It is not only healthcare procedures and prescriptions that require adjustment. The pharmaceutical industry’s response to resistant bacteria was to simply make more powerful, broad-spectrum antibiotics. While this strategy was effective in the short term, it is beginning to show two fatal flaws. The first is that it damages the gut microbiome, and encourages antibiotic resistance. The second is that it is beginning to become economically unviable to research new broad-spectrum antibiotics. Narrow-spectrum antibiotics seek to solve both of these issues simultaneously, by providing a targeted attack against pathogens while sparing other microbiota, and allowing for economic incentive. Finally, it is crucial to enhance education and outreach about the microbiome and antibiotic resistance. Since the topic is often excluded from school curriculums, not covered on exams, and lacks engaging learning material, many people lack understanding of basic concepts such as resistance and the roles of the microbiome. It is seen as a distant issue, one that does not directly affect the individual, and one the individual cannot affect. This cannot be further from the truth; by simply maintaining good gut health and using antibiotics responsibly, one is already contributing towards the solution.
A New Benzylisoquinoline of Annona Cherimola
Authors: CT Chang , CM Liu , ZS Wang , HC Yeh , WJ Li , HT Li , SL Liu , CY Chen
Published: November 2023

(-)-Zishenine (1), a new benzylisoquinoline, has been isolated from the roots of Annona cherimola Mill. (Annonanceae). The structure was characterized and identified by spectral analysis.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: A Mini Invasive Approach for Renal and Pelvic Stones. Initial Experience from a Resource-Limited Setting in Douala Cameroon
Authors: Kamadjou Cyril , Eyongeta Divine Enoru , Kameni Annie , Kuitche Jerry , Niang Lamine , Atallah Khaled , Lezrek Mohammed , Mpah Herve Moby
Published: November 2023

Background and Aim: We present in this paper the technique and results of percutaneous nephrolithotomy as a minimally invasive treatment for large renal and pyeloureteric junction stones at the Centre medico-chirugical d’urologie in Douala, Cameroon. Methods: This was a retrospective study carried out from January 2019 to July 2022. We included 25 patients with calculi in the renal pelvis and pyeloureteric junction treated through percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Results: We included a total of 25 patients (18 men and 7 women) with a median age of 44 [36-48] years. Of the 25 patients, 23(88%) had a single calculus and 3(22%) presented with a Staghorn calculus. The median size of the calculi was 23.5 [20.25–27.75] mm and in 60% of cases; the stone was on the right side of the body. In all cases, the definitive diagnosis was made using abdominal CT scans and in 20 (80%) patients, the diagnosis was made incidentally during a CT scan for other reasons. All patients were treated through percutaneous nephrolithotomy, performed in the prone position in 21(84%) patients. Three patients who had a positive urine culture prior to the procedure benefited from a preoperative double J stent placement and all patients had post-surgery percutaneous drain placement which was left in place for 24 hours. The median surgery duration was 135 [120–165] minutes. Seventeen patients (68%) were stone free after the procedure. Conclusion: Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is an effective mini-invasive technique in the treatment of voluminous kidney and pyeloureteric junction stones. It is reliable, reproducible and has fewer complications and, therefore, proves to be an excellent choice in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The Surgical Patient and Nursing Care in a Low-Income Setting: Challenges and Way Forward
Authors: Alderton Ijah Rex Friday Ogoronte , Iroegbu-Emeruem Linda U , Okuku Mary Obidiya , Nkadam Nwizor Monday , Amagboruju Victoria
Published: November 2023

Background: The newly developed Nigerian addition to the universal health coverage has surgery, obstetrics, anesthesia, and nursing as components of the plan. This study evaluated the challenges in the nursing care of the surgical patient in two public Teaching Hospitals in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted among total population of consenting Nurses and Medical Doctors at the Surgery Departments two public Teaching Hospitals, using semi-structured selfadministered questionnaire. Data obtained was entered into Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet / Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, and formed into tables. Results: There were 67(26.1%) male and 190 (73.9%) female respondents. The mean age of respondents was 37.63 ± 10.22 years. The mean years in practice was 11.05 ± 9.26 years. One hundred and forty-nine (58.0%) of the respondents were nurses. Most challenging nursing issues were giving intravenous fluids according to schedule (75 = 29.2%), wound dressing (73 = 28.4%), inadequate equipment and manpower (51 = 19.8%), administration and charting of intravenous fluids (26 = 10.1%), and drug administration (26 = 10.1%). The most challenging surgeon / doctor-related issues was poor staff interpersonal relationship (103 = 40.1%) followed by poor supervision of the surgical team (97 = 37.7%). Conclusion: The challenges of nursing the surgical patient in our setting are of multiple origin. Administrative issues of inadequate employment of manpower and its multiplier effects are reported along with patient-related and health professional issues.
SAVETYAL, There Are Benefits in Choosing A Handy Middle-MolecularWeight Hyaluronic Acid Formulation
Authors: Cacciapuoti Stefano , Filipponi Marco , Coviello Giuseppe , Privitera Marco
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Viscosupplementation with high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid does not offer efficacy and quality-of-life benefits compared to middle-molecular-weight hyaluronate formulations for intra-articular injection. Moreover, high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid might have some biophysical liabilities. The paper reports the outcomes of a purely observational survey after a previous intra-articular treatment to simulate the real-world experience of patients and orthopaedics specialists with a middle-molecular-weight hyaluronate medical device in the general population of knee osteoarthritis patients. Methods: Evaluations based on patient-assessed “Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score” (KOOS) and investigator-assessed “Range Of Motion” (ROM). Primary efficacy endpoint: patient-assessed pain during selected daily activities at T1 and T2 vs baseline (T0); secondary efficacy endpoint: patient-assessed changes in four KOOS daily activities and investigator-assessed ROM limitations at T1 and T2 vs T0. Results: The reduction of surveyed mean KOOS pain and function scores at T1 and T2 vs T0 was almost always highly significant for all surveyed pain categories—for instance, the mean “Straightening/Bending knee fully” pain score fell from 1.9 ± 0.85 to 0.8 ± 0.91 (–57.9%), the mean “Going upstairs/downstairs” pain score from 2.0 ± 0.69 to 0.9 ± 0.92 (–55.0%), the mean “Going upstairs/downstairs” function score from 2.0 ± 0.83 to 0.9 ± 1.01 (–55.9%), and the mean “Walking on flat surface” function score from 1.8 ± 0.97 to 0.9 ± 1.01 (–50.0%). The scores of all surveyed pain and function categories further improved significantly between the first and final follow-ups. ROM scores also showed a tendency to increase. Discussion: The survey study confirms the persisting value of the intra-articular SAVETYAL middle-molecular weight hyaluronic acid, with a confirmed clinically meaningful and statistically significant relief of pain and difficulties in daily life. The likely cognitive bias intrinsic to the survey design does not weaken the robust objective (investigators) and subjective (treated patients) outcomes.
Ecological relationship of marine aquaculture and the environment
Authors: Chuprina Ekaterina V.
Published: November 2023

Marine aquaculture is currently one of the fastest growing and promising segments of food production. Like any other human activity in marine areas, aquaculture can have an impact on the marine environment, especially creating risks for coastal ecosystems. By practicing sustainable fish farming, as well as conducting environmental monitoring during marine aquaculture inside marine ecosystems, it is possible to reduce the risks of environmental threats created by intensive marine aquaculture.
Evaluating the Adoption of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) in Museums: A Comprehensive Framework
Authors: Zhao Luoli
Published: November 2023

This study delves into the burgeoning intersection of NFTs and the museum sector. It examines the transformative potential of NFTs in redefining art curation, ownership, and accessibility. The paper presents a comprehensive background on the rise of NFTs, their technological underpinnings, and their cultural and economic impact on museums. A Decision Matrix Mechanism is proposed to assist museums in evaluating the strategic fit of NFT initiatives. The paper discusses the multifaceted factors influencing NFT adoption, including technological readiness, legal frameworks, ethical considerations, and market dynamics. It underscores the importance of a nuanced approach that aligns with each museum's mission and the evolving digital landscape.
Capitalist Surrealism of Chinese Burning Man
Authors: Rowen Ian
Published: November 2023

Burning Man, the prototypical transformational event culture, has been described as “a guerrilla war against alienated spectacle and the commodification of the collective imagination.” At the same time, it has spawned spectacular efforts at the commodification of experience that span the United States, China, and Taiwan. This article follows these transnational flows and considers the circulation and contradictions of capital through a globalizing economy of event cultures. Based on the author’s long-term role as a Burning Man artist and regional event representative, the article provides a comprehensive history of Burning Man’s varied manifestations, transformations, and hybridizations in China and Taiwan. These include authorized events and art installations produced by participants who aim to adhere to the principle of Decommodification espoused by the San Francisco-based nonprofit Burning Man Project, as well as unauthorized commercial copycats, some of which have been financially backed by the Chinese Communist Party, that have sent major art pieces to the main event in the US and attempted to launch ambitious projects in the Gobi Desert. Tracing these connections offers a weirdly scenic vantage point for examining the global collision and recreation of cultural, financial, and political desire. Reflecting on the productive tension between creativity and commodification, the article concludes that Burning Man’s consolidation as a transnational symbol of cultural capital points to an ideological and social convergence between the United States and China, offering a counterpoint to the resumption of Cold War rhetoric that has highlighted a hostile turn in their geopolitical relationship. In so doing, it proffers a surreal, if not utopic alternative to the aesthetic of “capitalist realism” oft said to characterize the contemporary era.
Modification of titanium orthopedic implants with bioactive glass: a systematic review of in vivo and in vitro studies
Authors: Liang Jin , Lu XinYue , Zheng XinRu , Li Yu Ru , Geng XiaoYu , Sun KeXin , Cai HongXin , Jia Qi , Jiang Heng Bo , Liu Kai
Published: November 2023

Bioactive glasses (BGs) are ideal biomaterials in the field of bio-restoration due to their excellent biocompatibility. Titanium alloys are widely used as a bone graft substitute material because of their excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical properties; however, their biological inertness makes them prone to clinical failure. Surface modification of titanium alloys with bioactive glass can effectively combine the superior mechanical properties of the substrate with the biological properties of the coating material. In this review, the relevant articles published from 2013 to the present were searched in four databases, namely, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and Scopus, and after screening, 49 studies were included. We systematically reviewed the basic information and the study types of the included studies, which comprise in vitro experiments, animal tests, and clinical trials. In addition, we summarized the applied coating technologies, which include pulsed laser deposition (PLD), electrophoretic deposition, dip coating, and magnetron sputtering deposition. The superior biocompatibility of the materials in terms of cytotoxicity, cell activity, hemocompatibility, anti-inflammatory properties, bioactivity, and their good bioactivity in terms of osseointegration, osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and soft tissue adhesion are discussed. We also analyzed the advantages of the existing materials and the prospects for further research. Even though the current research status is not extensive enough, it is still believed that BG-coated Ti implants have great clinical application prospects.
A combined electrohydrodynamic atomization method for preparing nanofiber/microparticle hybrid medicines
Authors: Sun Liang , Zhou Jianfeng , Chen Yaoning , Yu Deng-Guang , Liu Ping
Published: November 2023

Bacterial prostatitis is a challenging condition to treat with traditional dosage forms. Physicians often prescribe a variety of dosage forms with different administration methods, which fail to provide an efficient and convenient mode of drug delivery. The aim of this work was to develop a new type of hybrid material incorporating both electrosprayed core-shell microparticles and electrospun nanofibers. A traditional Chinese medicine (Ningmitai, NMT) and a Western medicine (ciprofloxacin, CIP) were co-encapsulated within this material and were designed to be released in a separately controlled manner. Utilizing polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a hydrophilic filament-forming polymer and pH-sensitive Eudragit® S100 (ES100) as the particulate polymeric matrix, a combined electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA) method comprising coaxial electrospraying and blending electrospinning, was used to create the hybrids in a single-step and straightforward manner. A series of characterization methods were conducted to analyze both the working process and its final products. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the EHDA hybrids comprised of both CIP-PVP nanofibers and NMT-ES100 core-shell microparticles. Multiple methods confirmed the rapid release of CIP and the sustained release of NMT. The antibacterial experiments indicated that the hybrids exhibited a more potent antibacterial effect against Escherichia coli dh5α and Bacillus subtilis Wb800 than either the separate nanofibers or microparticles. The amalgamation of fibrous nanomedicine and particulate micromedicine can expand the horizon of new types of medicines. The integration of electrospinning and coaxial electrospraying provides a straightforward approach to fabrication. By combining hydrophilic soluble polymers and pH-sensitive polymers in the hybrids, we can ensure the separate sequential controlled release of CIP and NMT for a potential synergistic and convenient therapy for bacterial prostatitis.
Metal-ligand interactions in a redox active ligand system. Electrochemistry and spectroscopy of [M(dipyvd)2]n+ (M=Zn, Ni, n=0, 1, 2)
Authors: Fleming Connor , Vu Son , Brook David J. R. , Agrestini Stefano , Pellegrin Eric , DaRos Jeffrey
Published: November 2023

Reaction of nickel and zinc triflates with the tridentate leucoverdazyl 1-isopropyl-3,5-di (2′-pyridyl)-6-oxo-2H-tetrazine (dipyvdH) and triethylamine resulted in the neutral coordination compounds M(dipyvd)2 (M = Ni,Zn). In acetonitrile, both compounds undergo two one electron oxidation processes, Zn (dipyvd)2 at −0.28 V and −0.12 V and Ni(dipyvd)2 at −0.32 V and −0.15 V vs ferrocene/ferricenium. Oxidations are ligand based resulting in an intermediate mixed valence species and a cationic bis(verdazyl) compound respectively. Oxidation of the ligand changes a localized, antiaromatic, non-planar 8π electron anion to a planar, delocalized 7π electron radical. The change in ligand structure results in an increase in the octahedral ligand field splitting from 10,500 cm–1 to ∼13,000 cm–1, suggesting an increase in the pi acceptor character of the ligand. In the mixed valence species, spectroscopic data suggests minimal interaction between ligands mediated by the metal center; i.e., these are class I-II systems in the Robin-Day classification.
Leveraging sanitized data for probabilistic electricity market prediction: a Singapore case study
Authors: Xu Ning Zhou , Gao Xiang , Chai Songjian , Niu Ming , Yang Jia Xin
Published: November 2023

In deregulated electricity markets, predicting price and load is a common practice. However, market participants and shareholders often seek deeper insights into other system statuses associated with price prediction, such as power flow and market share of generation companies (GenCos). These insights are challenging to obtain using purely data-driven methods. This paper proposes a physics-based solution for the probabilistic prediction of market-clearing outcomes, using real sanitized offer data from the National Electricity Market of Singapore (NEMS). Our approach begins with approximating the generator offers that have been historically cleared. Using this pool of offer data, we propose a probabilistic market-clearing process. This process allows for the probabilistic prediction of market prices. By considering the power system network and its constraints, we also naturally obtain probabilistic predictions of power flow and market shares. We validate our approach using actual NEMS data. Our findings show that while the overall performance of price prediction is comparable to existing methods, our proposed method can also provide probabilistic predictions of other associated system operating conditions. Furthermore, our method enables scenario studies, such as the impact of demand-side participation and the penetration of rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems on the Uniform Singapore Energy Price (USEP).
Challenging diagnoses of tetraploidy/diploidy and trisomy 12: utility of first-tier prenatal testing methods
Authors: Iordanescu Irina Ioana , Neacsu Anca Teodora , Catana Andreea , Barabas-CuzmicI Zina , Suciu Viorel , Dragomir Cristina , Voicu Diana Elena , Severin Emilia , Militaru Mariela Sanda
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Chromosome mosaicism and low-grade mosaicism present a challenge for diagnosis in the era of SNP array and NGS. Tetraploidy is a rare numerical chromosomal abnormality characterized by the presence of four copies of each chromosome. The prevalence of tetraploidy/diploidy mosaicism cases is extremely rare in the human population. Accurate estimates of the frequency of this chromosomal anomaly are lacking due to its classification as an extremely rare and difficult-to-detect condition.

Methods: In this report, we describe two cases involving challenging diagnoses of tetraploidy/diploidy and trisomy 12. We utilized advanced genetic testing techniques, including SNP array, to examine the chromosomal abnormalities in these cases. We compared the results from SNP array to conventional G band karyotyping to assess the utility of first-tier prenatal testing methods.

Results:Our analysis revealed two cases of tetraploidy/diploidy and trisomy 12 with atypical presentations. SNP array analysis provided higher resolution and more precise information about the chromosomal anomalies in these cases compared to conventional G band karyotyping. Additionally, the prevalence of tetraploidy/diploidy mosaicism was confirmed to be extremely rare in the population.

Discussion: Low-level mosaicism is difficult to diagnose, and in many cases, it has traditionally been identified through techniques such as G band karyotype or FISH. Microarray has become an invaluable diagnostic tool for detecting chromosomal abnormalities, offering high-resolution insights. However, it may not always be able to detect rare occurrences of tetraploidy or tetraploidy/diploidy mosaicism. As a result, it is recommended to perform a G band karyotype analysis after obtaining a negative microarray result before considering other diagnostic methods with a potentially higher yield of diagnosis. For the detection of low-level mosaicism, combined diagnostic methods should be considered. The diagnosis of mosaicism is a multistep process that can be time-consuming, often requiring the application of more than one diagnostic technique. This approach is crucial for accurate diagnosis and comprehensive patient care. Further research is warranted to better understand the underlying mechanisms of these rare chromosomal anomalies and to develop more effective diagnostic strategies for challenging cases.
In-depth blood immune profiling of Good syndrome patients
Authors: Torres-Valle Alba , Aragon Larraitz , Silva Susana L. , Serrano Cristina , Marcos Miguel , Melero Josefa , Bonroy Carolien , Arenas-Caro Pedro Pablo , Casado David Monzon , Olaizola Pedro Mikel Requejo , Neirinck Jana , Hofmans Mattias , de Arriba Sonia , Jara María , Prieto Carlos , Sousa Ana E. , Prada Álvaro , van Dongen Jacques J. M. , Pérez-Andrés Martín , Orfao Alberto
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Good syndrome (GS) is a rare adult-onset immunodeficiency first described in 1954. It is characterized by the coexistence of a thymoma and hypogammaglobulinemia, associated with an increased susceptibility to infections and autoimmunity. The classification and management of GS has been long hampered by the lack of data about the underlying immune alterations, a controversy existing on whether it is a unique diagnostic entity vs. a subtype of Common Variable Immune Deficiency (CVID).

Methods

Here, we used high-sensitive flow cytometry to investigate the distribution of up to 70 different immune cell populations in blood of GS patients (n=9) compared to age-matched CVID patients (n=55) and healthy donors (n=61).

Results

All 9 GS patients displayed reduced B-cell counts -down to undetectable levels (<0.1 cells/μL) in 8/9 cases-, together with decreased numbers of total CD4+ T-cells, NK-cells, neutrophils, and basophils vs. age-matched healthy donors. In contrast, they showed expanded TCRγδ+ T-cells (p ≤ 0.05). Except for a deeper B-cell defect, the pattern of immune cell alteration in blood was similar in GS and (age-matched) CVID patients. In depth analysis of CD4+ T-cells revealed significantly decreased blood counts of naïve, central memory (CM) and transitional memory (TM) TCD4+ cells and their functional compartments of T follicular helper (TFH), regulatory T cells (Tregs), T helper (Th)2, Th17, Th22, Th1/Th17 and Th1/Th2 cells. In addition, GS patients also showed decreased NK-cell, neutrophil, basophil, classical monocyte and of both CD1c+ and CD141+ myeloid dendritic cell counts in blood, in parallel to an expansion of total and terminal effector TCRγδ+ T-cells. Interestingly, those GS patients who developed hypogammaglobulinemia several years after the thymoma presented with an immunological and clinical phenotype which more closely resembled a combined immune humoral and cellular defect, with poorer response to immunoglobulin replacement therapy, as compared to those in whom the thymoma and hypogammaglobulinemia were simultaneously detected.

Discussion

Our findings provide a more accurate definition of the immune cell defects of GS patients and contribute to a better discrimination among GS patients between those with a pure B-cell defect vs. those suffering from a combined immunodeficiency with important consequences on the diagnosis and management of the disease.
RNA-sequencing based first choice of treatment and determination of risk in multiple myeloma
Authors: Emde-Rajaratnam Martina , Beck Susanne , Benes Vladimir , Salwender Hans , Bertsch Uta , Scheid Christoph , Hänel Mathias , Weisel Katja , Hielscher Thomas , Raab Marc S. , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Jauch Anna , Maes Ken , De Bruyne Elke , Menu Eline , De Veirman Kim , Moreaux Jérôme , Vanderkerken Karin , Seckinger Anja , Hose Dirk
Published: November 2023

Background

Immunotherapeutic targets in multiple myeloma (MM) have variable expression height and are partly expressed in subfractions of patients only. With increasing numbers of available compounds, strategies for appropriate choice of targets (combinations) are warranted. Simultaneously, risk assessment is advisable as patient’s life expectancy varies between months and decades.

Methods

We first assess feasibility of RNA-sequencing in a multicenter trial (GMMG-MM5, n=604 patients). Next, we use a clinical routine cohort of untreated symptomatic myeloma patients undergoing autologous stem cell transplantation (n=535, median follow-up (FU) 64 months) to perform RNA-sequencing, gene expression profiling (GEP), and iFISH by ten-probe panel on CD138-purified malignant plasma cells. We subsequently compare target expression to plasma cell precursors, MGUS (n=59), asymptomatic (n=142) and relapsed (n=69) myeloma patients, myeloma cell lines (n=26), and between longitudinal samples (MM vs. relapsed MM). Data are validated using the independent MMRF CoMMpass-cohort (n=767, FU 31 months).

Results

RNA-sequencing is feasible in 90.8% of patients (GMMG-MM5). Actionable immune-oncological targets (n=19) can be divided in those expressed in all normal and >99% of MM-patients (CD38, SLAMF7, BCMA, GPRC5D, FCRH5, TACI, CD74, CD44, CD37, CD79B), those with expression loss in subfractions of MM-patients (BAFF-R [81.3%], CD19 [57.9%], CD20 [82.8%], CD22 [28.4%]), aberrantly expressed in MM (NY-ESO1/2 [12%], MUC1 [12.7%], CD30 [4.9%], mutated BRAF V600E/K [2.1%]), and resistance-conveying target-mutations e.g., against part but not all BCMA-directed treatments. Risk is assessable regarding proliferation, translated GEP- (UAMS70-, SKY92-, RS-score) and de novo (LfM-HRS) defined risk scores. LfM-HRS delineates three groups of 40%, 38%, and 22% of patients with 5-year and 12-year survival rates of 84% (49%), 67% (18%), and 32% (0%). R-ISS and RNA-sequencing identify partially overlapping patient populations, with R-ISS missing, e.g., 30% (22/72) of highly proliferative myeloma.

Conclusion

RNA-sequencing based assessment of risk and targets for first choice treatment is possible in clinical routine.
Inflammatory microenvironment in gastric premalignant lesions: implication and application
Authors: Zhang Shengxiong , Shen Yang , Liu Hao , Zhu Di , Fang Jiansong , Pan Huafeng , Liu Wei
Published: November 2023

Gastric precancerous lesions (GPL) are a major health concern worldwide due to their potential to progress to gastric cancer (GC). Understanding the mechanism underlying the transformation from GPL to GC can provide a fresh insight for the early detection of GC. Although chronic inflammation is prevalent in the GPL, how the inflammatory microenvironment monitored the progression of GPL-to-GC are still elusive. Inflammation has been recognized as a key player in the progression of GPL. This review aims to provide an overview of the inflammatory microenvironment in GPL and its implications for disease progression and potential therapeutic applications. We discuss the involvement of inflammation in the progression of GPL, highlighting Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) as a mediator for inflammatory microenvironment and a key driver to GC progression. We explore the role of immune cells in mediating the progression of GPL, and focus on the regulation of inflammatory molecules in this disease. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of targeting inflammatory pathways for GPL. There are currently no specific drugs for GPL treatment, but traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and natural antioxidants, known as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, exhibit promising effects in suppressing or reversing the progression of GPL. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives in the field are proposed. Overall, this review highlights the central role of the inflammatory microenvironment in the progression of GPL, paving the way for innovative therapeutic approaches in the future.
Fabrication of polymeric composite GTR membrane from eggshell powder, polylactic acid and polyethylene glycol for periodontal application: in vitro evaluation
Authors: Farman Humaira , Khan Muhammad Adnan , Alamoudi Abdulmohsin J. , Sharif Faiza , Alshamrani Meshal , Liaqat Saad , Rizg Waleed Y. , Shaik Rasheed A. , Muhammad Nawshad
Published: November 2023

This study aims to fabricate, characterize and evaluate Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) membrane containing eggshell (ES), chlorhexidine (CHX) and polymeric matrix for periodontal application. ES powder ground to size 74 µm was mixed in Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Polyethylene Glycol (70:30 ratios) mixture in 10% and 30% wt to fabricate the membrane and named groups C-10 and C-30. Along with this, 0.25% and 0.5% CHX powder were adsorbed on ES powder and incorporated in PLA and PEG mixture to fabricate drug containing groups C-10CHX and C-30CHX respectively. UTM was used to measure tensile strength, Young’s Modulus, and percent elongation of the prepared GTR membrane. Experimental groups containing 10% ES powder (C-10 and C-30) had adequate tensile properties. The percent mass change of the samples was calculated by the change in weight of the samples (Wd) from the weight of samples after immersion in phosphate-buffered saline PBS (Wt). Contact angle measurement showed that all membranes were found to be hydrophilic (contact angle<90). Groups containing the drug CHX (C-10CHX and C-30CHX) had significant disc diffusion antibacterial activity. Cell viability assay was carried out by Alamar Blue Assay using mouse fibroblasts NIH3T3 and pre-osteoblasts that indicated very good biocompatibility of the groups (C, C-10, C-30, and C-10CHX) while experimental group C-30CHX showed slight cytotoxicity (Cell Viability >70%).
The effect of intravenous and inhalation anesthesia in general on the cognition of elderly patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Leilei , Zhang Yong
Published: November 2023

Background

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a postoperative complication that often occurs in the elderly. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare intravenous anesthetics (propofol) with inhalation anesthetics (sevoflurane) regarding the occurrence of POCD in the elderly who underwent non-cardiac surgery.

Methods

The investigators searched for published articles from the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, and Clinicalkey databases. Clinical studies comparing the incidence of POCD in elderly patients undergoing intravenous or inhalation anesthesia in general were selected. Primary outcomes included the occurrence of POCD at 1, 3, and 7 days. The secondary outcomes were the patient’s plasma S-100β protein levels (pg*mL−1) and delayed neurocognitive recovery incidence 5–7 days after surgery.

Results

Fifteen studies including 3,817 patients were enrolled in the systematic review. Ten studies involving 1,829 patients were enrolled in the meta-analysis. The results demonstrate that there was no difference between the intravenous and inhalation groups in the incidence of POCD within 1–7 days (95% CI 0.73–1.26, p = 0.77) and the occurrence of delayed neurocognitive recovery 5–7 days after surgery (95% CI −353.15 to −295.44, p = 0.28). Plasma S-100β protein levels in the intravenous anesthesia group were lower than those in the inhalation group (95% CI 0.48–1.24, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

For elderly patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery, inhalation anesthesia was comparable to intravenous anesthesia in terms of the occurrence of short-term POCD. Inhalation anesthesia may cause greater damage to the nervous system, with delayed recovery of cognitive function after 5–7 days showing no difference.

Systematic review

identifier (CRD42021251317).