bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrospray doxorubicin‐loaded polycaprolactone‐polyethylene glycol nanospheres/poloxamer‐chitosan thermogel: A promising candidate for clinical applications
Authors: Mehrazin Mehdi , Asefnejad Azadeh , Naeimi Farid , Khonakdar Hossein Ali
Published: March 2024

In recent years, polymer nanospheres have been considered as one of the most common materials in the drug delivery domain. In this research, polycaprolactone‐polyethylene glycol (PCL‐PEG) blend nanospheres were produced using the electrospray method to load doxorubicin. Also, these nanospheres can be used for injection in the treatment site by poloxamer‐chitosan thermogel. In this research, PCL and PEG were used as raw materials to produce nanospheres. Then, doxorubicin was used for loading in nanospheres. The electrospray method was chosen as the method of nanosphere production. In the next step, poloxamer‐chitosan thermogel was used for injection at the treatment site. In this method, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and rheometer techniques were used to identify the compounds and properties of the obtained specimens. Also, the MTT test was used to investigate toxicity. The results showed that PCL‐PEG polymer nanospheres were produced by loading doxorubicin using the electrospraying method with a diameter of 185 ± 23 nm. Also, these nanospheres were used for injection in the treatment site using poloxamer‐chitosan thermogel. The amount of drug release in the PLX‐CS (DOX‐PCL‐PEG)NSs was 63% in 144 h at medium pH 5.5. In the drug release system, the in‐vitro method was utilized to study the release of PLX‐CS (DOX‐PCL‐PEG) NSs. PCL‐PEG nanospheres combined in poloxamer‐chitosan thermogel polymer showed the controlled release of doxorubicin, therefore, the evaluated drug release system is considered a valuable perspective as an efficient and safe route for drug delivery in the target tissue and treating various types of cancer. This research can be used as a new method in drug delivery systems.
Low‐Pressure, Modified Halide Vapor‐Phase Epitaxy for Chemically Pure GaN Epilayers
Authors: Leach Jacob H. , Udwary Kevin , Dodson Gregg , Tran Tinh B. , Splawn Heather A.
Published: March 2024

The halide vapor‐phase epitaxy (HVPE) technique has been extensively used for the production of freestanding GaN crystals for GaN wafer manufacturing, but has had renewed interest in recent years as a technique for producing high‐quality GaN epilayers at high growth rates and without the issues of carbon incorporation which complicate the growth of GaN using metal–organic vapor phase epitaxy. Herein, thick epilayers grown by HVPE using a low‐pressure modified quartz reactor with controlled H2 injection are presented which exhibit surface root‐mean‐square roughnesses <0.5 nm with low background doping concentrations <2E15 cm−3 and room‐temperature mobilities >1200 cm2 V−1 s−1. Such films are considered to be strong contenders for the production of lightly doped GaN drift layers for vertical power electronics devices.
Delay‐independent conditions of exponential ISS for linear time‐varying delay differential systems
Authors: De Iuliis Vittorio , Manes Costanzo
Published: March 2024

This work focuses on linear continuous‐time systems with time‐varying delays, in the general case of time‐varying matrices. Initially, we explore the case of positive systems within this class and introduce two distinct delay‐independent conditions of exponential input‐to‐state stability. Moreover, we provide guaranteed exponential convergence rates for such conditions, explicitly stating the ISS gains. Then, we extend our analysis to systems without sign constraints, adopting a state‐bounding approach that takes advantage of the properties of positive systems. Due to the time‐varying nature of the systems, all proposed conditions are in terms of an infinite number of inequalities. Hence, implementation issues are discussed and significant special cases in which the conditions can be cast into a linear programming problem of finite dimension are presented.
Co‐channel interference cancellation based on BSS for multi‐satellite MIMO communication systems with FFR
Authors: Qin Yuan , Zhang Hang , Li Wen , Zhu Hongpeng , Li Jiong
Published: March 2024

Multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) technology can boost the capacity of conventional satellite communications, and full frequency reuse (FFR) can further improve the capacity by making full use of frequency resources. However, FFR will cause severe co‐channel interference and lead to a degradation of channel capacity. Blind source separation (BSS) algorithm can be used to eliminate co‐channel interference and does not require prior information, which avoids the extra occupation of channel frequency resources. While the multi‐satellite MIMO communication system have delay mixing characteristic, the separation performance will be degraded if the delay is ignored. In this paper, DMBSS algorithm for delay mixing is proposed. Firstly, the DMBSS algorithm utilizes Taylor expansion to achieve dimension expansion of observed signals and so as to transform the delay mixing into instantaneous mixing with extended dimension. Secondly, complex non‐orthogonal joint diagonalization algorithm is used to solve the separation matrix equation of extended observation signals and extended source signals and thus to eliminate the co‐channel interference. Simulation results show that for multi‐satellite MIMO communication scenarios with FFR, the proposed algorithm can effectively improve the performance of co‐channel interference cancellation and reduce the value of BER. Furthermore, the influence of order of Taylor expansion on the separation performance is also analyzed and simulated in this paper to show the cost performance of the proposed algorithm.
Steps to Improve the Teaching of Clinical Reasoning in Dermatology: A Scoping Review and Proposal
Authors: Rodriguez Aliya , Farkouh Christopher , Raszewski Rebecca , Hernandez Claudia
Published: March 2024

Clinical reasoning (CR) is an area of active interest since faults in the diagnostic process can result in errors and possibly delays in care or even patient harm. The purpose of this scoping review was to collect information from the medical literature on approaches utilized to teach and assess CR in dermatology, identify gaps, and prepare a proposal on how to enhance the speciality’s ability to develop trainee CR skills. We conducted a review of the published literature (1990–2020) from four databases. The initial search yielded 780 papers, and 42 relevant CR publications met inclusion criteria. Demographic, thematic content, theoretical frameworks, continuum of authenticity, competency/milestone, and assessment/educational intervention data were recorded by two screeners. Trainees at different educational levels from 17 different countries have been assessed in the dermatology literature. Most publications were of a single intervention, appeared underpowered, and had small sample sizes. Only two publications examined work-based assessments (use real patients/stimuli). Knowledge-based studies were the dominant theoretical framework with no studies exclusively focused on process-based CR interventions. Simulation was well represented with 23 (55%) investigations. Rigorous studies that examine CR teaching and assessment in dermatology are lacking. Evidence-based best practices for use of work-based assessments, especially direct observation, need to be developed/adapted for dermatology and validated. Dermatology training programs would benefit from longitudinal data on trainee CR development, process-based CR educational programs, metacognition CR exploration specific to skin disease diagnosis, and studies that yield practical recommendations on how to structure multi-faceted assessments that assess CR.
The foundations of mind‐body medicine: Love, good relationships, and happiness modulate stress and promote health
Authors: Esch Tobias , Stefano George B. , Michaelsen Maren M.
Published: March 2024

Although stress is an everyday fact of life, it can lead to poor health outcomes, particularly when intense or prolonged. However, humans have unique cognitive abilities and thus may be able to combat stress by engaging critical psychological defence mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the field of mind‐body medicine, which focuses on improving our understanding of the mechanisms underlying this response and developing interventions that might be used to limit the effects of chronic stress. We review the findings of past and current research in this field that has focused on the impact of psychological, emotional, and behavioural factors, including love, social connectedness, and happiness on human health and the amelioration of pain as well as other signs and symptoms of disease. While these studies have not yet led to confirmed, quantifiable conclusions, the overall weight of evidence suggests that happiness (defined as a personal sense of well‐being) may be directly associated with improved health parameters and reductions in debilitating symptoms. Collectively, these findings suggest that interventions designed to promote stress mitigation, notably those that encourage social activity, may lead to significant improvements in human health.
Multivalent Sulfur Vacancy‐Rich NiCo2S4@MnO2 Urchin‐Like Heterostructures for Ambient Electrochemical N2 Reduction to NH3
Authors: Mushtaq Muhammad Asim , Kumar Anuj , Yasin Ghulam , Tabish Mohammad , Arif Muhammad , Ajmal Saira , Raza Waseem , Naseem Sajid , Zhao Jie , Li Pengyan , Ali Hina Ghulam , Ji Shengfu , Yan Dongpeng
Published: March 2024

Innovative advances in the exploitation of effective electrocatalytic materials for the reduction of nitrogen (N2) to ammonia (NH3) are highly required for the sustainable production of fertilizers and zero‐carbon emission fuel. In order to achieve zero‐carbon footprints and renewable NH3 production, electrochemical N2 reduction reaction (NRR) provides a favorable energy‐saving alternative but it requires more active, efficient, and selective catalysts. In current work, sulfur vacancy (Sv)‐rich NiCo2S4@MnO2 heterostructures are efficaciously fabricated via a facile hydrothermal approach followed by heat treatment. The urchin‐like Sv‐NiCo2S4@MnO2 heterostructures serve as cathodes, which demonstrate an optimal NH3 yield of 57.31 µg h−1 mgcat−1 and Faradaic efficiency of 20.55% at −0.2 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) in basic electrolyte owing to the synergistic interactions between Sv‐NiCo2S4 and MnO2. Density functional theory (DFT) simulation further verifies that Co‐sites of urchin‐like Sv‐NiCo2S4@MnO2 heterostructures are beneficial to lowering the energy threshold for N2 adsorption and successive protonation. Distinctive micro/nano‐architectures exhibit high NRR electrocatalytic activities that might motivate researchers to explore and concentrate on the development of heterostructures for ambient electrocatalytic NH3 generation.
Biomimetic Mineralization Synthesis of Flower‐Like Cobalt Selenide/Reduced Graphene Oxide for Improved Electrochemical Deionization
Authors: Fu Min , Yu Hao , Lv Ruitao , Wang Kunhua , Gao Meng , Ning Liangmin , Chen Wei , Pan Jianming , Pang Huan
Published: March 2024

Rationally and precisely tuning the composition and structure of materials is a viable strategy to improve electrochemical deionization (EDI) performances, which yet faces enormous challenges. Herein, an eco‐friendly biomimetic mineralization synthetic strategy is developed to synthesize the flower‐like cobalt selenide/reduced graphene oxide (Bio‐CoSe2/rGO) composites and used as advanced sodium ion adsorption electrodes. Benefiting from the slow and controllable reaction kinetics provided by the biomimetic mineralization process, the flower‐like CoSe2 is uniformly constructed in the rGO, which is endowed with robust architecture, substantial adsorption sites and rapid charge/ion transport. The Bio‐CoSe2/rGO electrode yields the maximum salt adsorption capacity and salt adsorption rate of 56.3 mg g−1 and 5.6 mg g−1 min−1 respectively, and 92.5% capacity retention after 60 cycles. These results overmatch the pristine CoSe2 and irregular granular CoSe2/rGO synthesized by a hydrothermal method, proving the structural superiority of the Bio‐CoSe2/rGO composites. Furthermore, the in‐depth adsorption kinetics study indicates the chemisorption nature of sodium ion adsorption. The structures of the Bio‐CoSe2/rGO composites after long term EDI cycles are intensively studied to unveil the mechanism behind such superior EDI performances. This study offers one effective method for constructing advanced EDI electrodes, and enriches the application of the biomimetic mineralization synthetic strategy.
State‐of‐the‐practice in quality assurance in Java‐based open source software development
Authors: Khatami Ali , Zaidman Andy
Published: March 2024

To ensure the quality of software systems, software engineers can make use of a variety of quality assurance approaches, for example, software testing, modern code review, automated static analysis, and build automation. Each of these quality assurance practices have been studied in depth in isolation, but there is a clear knowledge gap when it comes to our understanding of how these approaches are being used in conjunction, or not. In our study, we broadly investigate whether and how these quality assurance approaches are being used in conjunction in the development of 1454 popular open source software projects on GitHub. Our study indicates that typically projects do not follow all quality assurance practices together with high intensity. In fact, we only observe weak correlation among some quality assurance practices. In general, our study provides a deeper understanding of how existing quality assurance approaches are currently being used in Java‐based open source software development. Besides, we specifically zoom in on the more mature projects in our dataset, and generally we observe that more mature projects are more intense in their application of the quality assurance practices, with more focus on their ASAT usage, and code reviewing, but no strong change in their CI usage.
Entanglement and Rényi entropies of (1+1)-dimensional O(3) nonlinear sigma model with tensor renormalization group
Authors: Luo Xiao , Kuramashi Yoshinobu
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We investigate the entanglement and Rényi entropies for the (1+1)-dimensional O(3) nonlinear sigma model using the tensor renormalization group method. The central charge is determined from the asymptotic scaling properties of both entropies. We also examine the consistency between the entanglement entropy and the nth-order Rényi entropy with n → 1.
On the UV/IR mixing of Lie algebra-type noncommutatitive ϕ4-theories
Authors: Hersent Kilian
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We show that a UV divergence of the propagator integral implies the divergences of the UV/IR mixing in the two-point function at one-loop for a ϕ4-theory on a generic Lie algebra-type noncommutative space-time. The UV/IR mixing is defined as a UV divergence of the planar contribution and an IR singularity of the non-planar contribution, the latter being due to the former UV divergence, and the UV finiteness of the non-planar contribution. Some properties of this general treatment are discussed. The UV finiteness of the non-planar contribution and the renormalizability of the theory are not treated but commented. Applications are performed for the Moyal space, having a UV/IR mixing, and the κ-Minkowski space for which the two-point function at one-loop is finite.
Factor principal congruences and Boolean products in filtral varieties
Authors: Davey Brian A. , Haviar Miroslav
Published: March 2024

Motivated by Haviar and Ploščica’s 2021 characterisation of Boolean products of simple De Morgan algebras, we investigate Boolean products of simple algebras in filtral varieties. We provide two main theorems. The first yields Werner’s Boolean-product representation of algebras in a discriminator variety as an immediate application. The second, which applies to algebras in which the top congruence is compact, yields a generalisation of the Haviar–Ploščica result to semisimple varieties of Ockham algebras. The property of having factor principal congruences is fundamental to both theorems. While major parts of our general theorems can be derived from results in the literature, we offer new, self-contained and essentially elementary proofs.
Space and technology in catching-up economies: “the city as a laboratory for innovation”
Authors: Kim Yong Jin , Lee Chul-In
Published: March 2024

Successful catching-up economies tend to exhibit a set of properties: (i) rapid increases in skilled labor and R&D investment, (ii) industrial structure upgrading from technology adoption toward technology creation sectors, and (iii) spatial concentration on the rise. The paper accounts for them by combining the mechanisms of skill-city complementarity and knowledge spillover in the setting of catching-up economies where ideas are more challenging to find along the growth path. With the diminishing possibility of adopting existing ideas, catching-up economies gradually rely more on creating ideas, which requires efficient knowledge spillover through urban spatial concentration based on ability sorting. We highlight that (i) catching-up economies choose proper city size and structure to benefit from growth effects through fostering innovation and spillovers, and (ii) rents here are not just an economic rent but play a productive role of allocating innovative abilities over space in an incentive-compatible manner. We discuss the policy on urban rents.
Comparative study between ventriculosubgaleal shunt and external ventricular drain for management of post infective hydrocephalus among pediatrics
Authors: Ismail Abdelaziz Abdelhamid , Taha Ahmed Nageeb , Badr Hatem Ibraheem , Zaher Ahmed , Elbaz Samy Abbas , Khalil Amr Farid
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Post infective hydrocephalus (PIH) is a type of hydrocephalus which occurs after an infection of the brain or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Treatment of PIH requires temporary measures such as external ventricular drain (EVD) and ventriculosubgaleal shunt (VSGS) until CSF becomes clear and ready to implement VP shunt.

Limited research has been done to explore the tradeoff between these approaches particularly in pediatric PIH patients.

Our study compares the complications, mortality rates, and the cost of used resources of both procedures.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted for 18 months in which we compared between VSGS and EVD for management of PIH involving 42 randomized cases with 21 patients in group A operated by VSGS and 21 patients in group B operated by EVD.

Results

Our results show a statistically significant difference between both groups in the duration of implementation of VSGS/EVD until resolution of infection occurs. Additionally, a higher rate of pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission and a longer length of hospital stay (LOS) were recorded among the EVD group. No statistically significant difference between the number of complications that happened in both despite variations in their forms. Moreover, both groups showed nearly similar mortality rates.

Conclusion

There is no significant difference in the rate of complications between VSGS and EVD for PIH. Based on that, VSGS emerges as a favorable and cost-effective option for the management of PIH which leads to less economic burden on patients and the country’s health resources, especially in developing countries.
Detection of antibody subclasses IgA, IgM and IgG against HPV L1 in HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma patients: a pilot study
Authors: Weiland Thomas , Zgubic Jakob , Brcic Luka , Thurnher Dietmar
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Despite prognostic superiority of HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), up to 25% of patients will suffer from recurrence within the first 5 years. Therefore, it is of great scientific interest to find relevant biomarkers to identify patients at risk. In this prospective observational study, we aimed to investigate the dynamics of HPV-L1 capsid protein specific antibody (AB) subclasses IgA, IgM, and IgG in HPV-positive OPSCC patients under therapy.

Methods

Serum samples from HPV-positive OPSCC patients, identified by positive p16-immunohistochemistry, were collected before and during tumor-specific therapy and 3–6 months during follow-up. They were analyzed for the presence of HPV-L1 AB subclasses IgA, IgM, and IgG using an HPV-L1-specific immuno-assay. Additionally, a PCR-based HPV-DNA detection from the tumor tissue was performed.

Results

Altogether, 33 patients with a mean follow-up of 55 months were included. Analysis of a total of 226 serum samples revealed that the most common L1-AB-subclass pattern was characterized by IgG >  > IgA > IgM without significant fluctuation during the course of disease. Patients with excessive IgG levels tended to higher tumor stages and three out of three patients with disease recurrence showed increasing IgG AB titers beforehand. Seven patients showed an IgA dominance at diagnosis, which was associated with a better disease-free survival.

Conclusion

Despite limited cases, our prospective pilot study revealed promising trends in HPV L1 AB subclasses and may contribute useful information for future risk stratification and post-treatment monitoring in HPV-positive OPSCC patients.
The cognitive relevance of non-lesional damage to cortical networks in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Krijnen Eva A. , Broeders Tommy A. A. , Noteboom Samantha , van Dam Maureen , Bajrami Albulena , Bouman Piet M. , Barkhof Frederik , Uitdehaag Bernard M. J. , Klawiter Eric C. , Koubiyr Ismail , Schoonheim Menno M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Cognitive impairment, a common and debilitating symptom in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), is especially related to cortical damage. However, the impact of regional cortical damage remains poorly understood. Our aim was to evaluate structural (network) integrity in lesional and non-lesional cortex in people with MS, and its relationship with cognitive dysfunction.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 176 people with MS and 48 healthy controls underwent MRI, including double inversion recovery and diffusion-weighted scans, and neuropsychological assessment. Cortical integrity was assessed based on fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) within 212 regions split into lesional or non-lesional cortex, and grouped into seven cortical networks. Integrity was compared between people with MS and controls, and across cognitive groups: cognitively-impaired (CI; ≥ two domains at Z ≤ − 2 below controls), mildly CI (≥ two at − 2 < Z ≤ − 1.5), or cognitively-preserved (CP).

Results

Cortical lesions were observed in 87.5% of people with MS, mainly in ventral attention network, followed by limbic and default mode networks. Compared to controls, in non-lesional cortex, MD was increased in people with MS, but mean FA did not differ. Within the same individual, MD and FA were increased in lesional compared to non-lesional cortex. CI-MS exhibited higher MD than CP-MS in non-lesional cortex of default mode, frontoparietal and sensorimotor networks, of which the default mode network could best explain cognitive performance.

Conclusion

Diffusion differences in lesional cortex were more severe than in non-lesional cortex. However, while most people with MS had cortical lesions, diffusion differences in CI-MS were more prominent in non-lesional cortex than lesional cortex, especially within default mode, frontoparietal and sensorimotor networks.
The interaction of breath holding and muscle mechanoreflex on cardiovascular responses in breath-hold divers and non-breath-hold divers
Authors: Nobuhiro Nakamura , Heng Peng , Naoyuki Hayashi
Published: March 2024

Cardiovascular responses to diving are characterized by two opposing responses: tachycardia resulting from exercise and bradycardia resulting from the apnea. The convergence of bradycardia and tachycardia may determine the cardiovascular responses to diving. The purpose of this study was to investigate the interaction of breath holding and muscle mechanoreflex on cardiovascular responses in breath-hold divers (BHDs) and non-BHDs. We compared the cardiovascular responses to combined apnea and the mechanoreflex in BHDs and non-BHDs. All participants undertook three trials—apnea, passive leg cycling (PLC), and combined trials—for 30 s after rest. Cardiovascular variables were measured continuously. Nine BHD (male:female, 4:5; [means ± SD] age, 35 ± 6 years; height, 168.6 ± 4.6 cm; body mass, 58.4 ± 5.9 kg) and eight non-BHD (male:female, 4:4; [means ± SD] age, 35 ± 7 years; height, 163.9 ± 9.1 cm; body mass, 55.6 ± 7.2 kg) participants were included. Compared to the resting baseline, heart rate (HR) and cardiac output (CO) significantly decreased during the combined trial in the BHD group, while they significantly increased during the combined trials in the non-BHD group (P < 0.05). Changes in the HR and CO were significantly lower in the BHD group than in the non-BHD group in the combined trial (P < 0.05). These results suggest that bradycardia with apnea in BHDs is prioritized over tachycardia with the mechanoreflex, whereas that in non-BHDs is not. This finding implies that diving training changes the interaction between apnea and the mechanoreflex in cardiovascular control.
Establishment of the deuterium oxide dilution method as a new possibility for determining the transendothelial water permeability
Authors: Müller Hannes , Hahn Janina , Gierke Angelina , Stark Robert , Brunner Cornelia , Hoffmann Thomas K. , Greve Jens , Wittekindt Oliver , Lochbaum Robin
Published: March 2024

Increase in transendothelial water permeability is an essential etiological factor in a variety of diseases like edema and shock. Despite the high clinical relevance, there has been no precise method to detect transendothelial water flow until now. The deuterium oxide (D2O) dilution method, already established for measuring transepithelial water transport, was used to precisely determine the transendothelial water permeability. It detected appropriate transendothelial water flow induced by different hydrostatic forces. This was shown in four different endothelial cell types. The general experimental setup was verified by gravimetry and absorbance spectroscopy. Determination of transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and immunocytochemical staining for proteins of the cell-cell contacts were performed to ensure that no damage to the endothelium occurred because of the measurements. Furthermore, endothelial barrier function was modulated. Measurement of transendothelial water flux was verified by measuring the TEER, the apparent permeability coefficient and the electrical capacity. The barrier-promoting substances cyclic adenosine monophosphate and iloprost reduced TEER and electrical capacity and increased permeability. This was accompanied by a reduced transendothelial water flux. In contrast, the barrier-damaging substances thrombin, histamine and bradykinin reduced TEER and electrical capacity, but increased permeability. Here, an increased water flow was shown. This newly established in vitro method for direct measurement of transendothelial water permeability was verified as a highly precise technique in various assays. The use of patient-specific endothelial cells enables individualized precision medicine in the context of basic edema research, for example regarding the development of barrier-protective pharmaceuticals.
Video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) combined with ozonide oil dressing: standardization of technique in pediatric patients
Authors: Esposito Ciro , Autorino Giuseppe , Cerulo Mariapina , Del Conte Fulvia , Coppola Vincenzo , Esposito Giovanni , Chiodi Annalisa , Di Mento Claudia , Bagnara Vincenzo , Escolino Maria
Published: March 2024

Background

Anal fistula and perianal abscess are commonly acquired anorectal pathologies in children. Surgical treatment options commonly adopted are fistulotomy, fistulectomy, cutting seton placement, and more recently video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT). Optimal postoperative wound dressing remains debated. This study aimed to report our series of pediatric patients, who received VAAFT and postoperative wound dressing using ozonide oil.

Methods

All patients who underwent VAAFT between August 2018 and May 2023 were included in the study. Demographics, clinical features, pre-operative imaging, surgical details, outcome, and mid-term outcome data were retrospectively reviewed for each patient. All VAAFT procedures were performed under general anesthesia and using a 10-Ch fistuloscope.

Results

Thirty-three VAAFT procedures were performed in 30 patients over the study period. The median patient age was 5.7 years (range 1.75–14). Anal fistula was idiopathic in 26/30 (86.6%), iatrogenic in 2/30 (6.7%), and secondary to Crohn’s disease in 2/30 (6.7%). The median duration of surgery was 23 min (range 18–40). All patients received ozonide oil dressing twice a day for 5 weeks postoperatively. The median hospital stay was 24 h (range 9–36). The median healing time was 28 days (range 17–39). With a median follow-up of 2 years (range 0.5–5), disease recurrence occurred in 3/30 (10%) patients with idiopathic fistula, who were re-operated using the same technique, with no further recurrence. No fecal incontinence or soiling was observed.

Conclusion

Our series confirmed that VAAFT is a safe and effective technique to treat children with perianal fistula. The technique is versatile, allowing to treat fistulae of different etiologies. Postoperative course was painless and fast. Future comparative prospective studies are needed to better establish these conclusions.
Kunststoffabfälle im Kontext der SDGs
Authors: Veith Therese , Obersteiner Gudrun , Hrad Marlies , Allesch Astrid
Published: March 2024

Die Bewältigung der globalen Herausforderungen im Bereich der Kunststoffabfälle hat in den letzten Jahren zunehmende Aufmerksamkeit auf sich gezogen, insbesondere im Kontext der Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) der Vereinten Nationen (UN). Kunststoffabfälle sind zu einem integralen Bestandteil der Diskussion über nachhaltige Entwicklung geworden und haben direkte Auswirkungen auf mehrere SDGs. Hier werden SDG 6 (Sauberes Wasser und Sanitärversorgung), SDG 7 (Bezahlbare saubere Energie), SDG 11 (Nachhaltige Städte und Gemeinden), SDG 12 (Verantwortungsvolle Konsum- und Produktionsmuster) sowie SDG 14 (Leben unter Wasser) von zahlreichen Studien am häufigsten genannt. Die Kunststoffindustrie (inkl. der Abfallwirtschaft) ist ein wichtiger Wirtschaftssektor; gleichzeitig bringen enorme Umweltschäden wirtschaftliche Verluste mit sich. So zeigt sich zum Beispiel, dass die Auswirkungen von Kunststoffabfällen die terrestrischen und aquatischen Ökosysteme erheblich beeinträchtigen. Kunststofflittering (Makroplastik), Mikro- und Nanoplastikemissionen bedingen negative Auswirkungen auf die menschliche Gesundheit (Mikroplastik wurde im Blut von Menschen nachgewiesen) sowie auf die Fauna, wobei hier noch Forschungsbedarf besteht. Zudem ist durch die Kunststoffproduktion auch ein Beitrag zum Klimawandel gegeben. Eine sachgerechte (getrennte) Kunststoffabfallsammlung sowie eine nachhaltige Kunststoffbewirtschaftung, wie die Reduzierung des Kunststoffverbrauchs, um das Produktionsvolumen und Kunststoffemissionen aus Prozessströmen, dem Recycling und der Abfallentsorgung zu verringern, können eine positiven Beitrag zur SDG-Zielerreichung leisten.
Self-reported knowledge of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol concentration in cannabis products among cancer patients and survivors
Authors: Goulette Michelle , Schlienz Nicolas J. , Case Amy A. , Hansen Eric , Rivard Cheryl , Ashare Rebecca L. , Goniewicz Maciej L. , Bansal-Travers Maansi , Hyland Andrew , Smith Danielle M.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Cannabis use may introduce risks and/or benefits among people living with cancer, depending on product type, composition, and nature of its use. Patient knowledge of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD) concentration could provide information for providers about cannabis use during and after treatment that may aide in risk and benefit assessments. This study aimed to examine knowledge of THC or CBD concentration among patients living with cancer who consume cannabis, and factors associated with knowledge of cannabinoid concentrations.

Methods

People living with cancer who consumed cannabis since their diagnosis (n = 343) completed an anonymous, mixed-mode survey. Questions assessed usual mode of delivery (MOD), knowledge of THC/CBD concentration, and how source of acquisition, current cannabis use, and source of instruction are associated with knowledge of THC/CBD concentration. Chi-square and separate binary logistic regression analyses were examined and weighted to reflect the Roswell Park patient population.

Results

Less than 20% of people living with cancer had knowledge of THC and CBD concentration for the cannabis products they consumed across all MOD (smoking- combustible products, vaping- vaporized products (e-cigarettes), edibles-eating or drinking it, and oral- taking by mouth (pills)). Source of acquisition (smoking-AOR:4.6, p < 0.01, vaping-AOR:5.8, p < 0.00, edibles-AOR:2.6, p < 0.04), current cannabis use (edibles-AOR:5.4, p < 0.01, vaping-AOR: 11.2, p < 0.00, and oral-AOR:9.3, p < 0.00), and source of instruction (vaping only AOR:4.2, p < 0.05) were found to be variables associated with higher knowledge of THC concentration.

Conclusion

Self-reported knowledge of THC and CBD concentration statistically differed according to MOD, source of acquisition, source of instruction, and current cannabis use.
Divergent colonization traits, convergent benefits: different species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi alleviate Meloidogyne incognita damage in tomato
Authors: Caccia Milena , Marro Nicolás , Novák Václav , Ráez Juan Antonio López , Castillo Pablo , Janoušková Martina
Published: March 2024

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can increase plant tolerance and/or resistance to pests such as the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita. However, the ameliorative effects may depend on AMF species. The aim of this work was therefore to evaluate whether four AMF species differentially affect plant performance in response to M. incognita infection. Tomato plants grown in greenhouse conditions were inoculated with four different AMF isolates (Claroideoglomus claroideum, Funneliformis mosseae, Gigaspora margarita, and Rhizophagus intraradices) and infected with 100 second stage juveniles of M. incognita at two different times: simultaneously or 2 weeks after the inoculation with AMF. After 60 days, the number of galls, egg masses, and reproduction factor of the nematodes were assessed along with plant biomass, phosphorus (P), and nitrogen concentrations in roots and shoots and root colonization by AMF. Only the simultaneous nematode inoculation without AMF caused a large reduction in plant shoot biomass, while all AMF species were able to ameliorate this effect and improve plant P uptake. The AMF isolates responded differently to the interaction with nematodes, either increasing the frequency of vesicles (C. claroideum) or reducing the number of arbuscules (F. mosseae and Gi. margarita). AMF inoculation did not decrease galls; however, it reduced the number of egg masses per gall in nematode simultaneous inoculation, except for C. claroideum. This work shows the importance of biotic stress alleviation associated with an improvement in P uptake and mediated by four different AMF species, irrespective of their fungal root colonization levels and specific interactions with the parasite.
Comparative bioactivity and immunomodulatory potential of the new Bioroot Flow and AH Plus Bioceramic sealer: An in vitro study on hPDLSCs
Authors: Sanz José Luis , López-García Sergio , García-Bernal David , Rodríguez-Lozano Francisco Javier , Forner Leopoldo , Lozano Adrián , Murcia Laura
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the cytocompatibility, bioactivity, and anti-inflammatory potential of the new pre-mixed calcium silicate cement-based sealers Bioroot Flow (BrF) and AH Plus Bioceramic Sealer (AHPbcs) on human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) compared to the epoxy resin-based sealer AH Plus (AHP).

Materials and methods

Standardized discs and 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4 eluates of BrF, AHPbcs and AHP after setting were prepared. The following assays were performed: cell attachment and morphology via SEM, cell viability via a MTT assay, cell migration/proliferation via a wound-healing assay, cytoskeleton organization via immunofluorescence staining; cytokine release via ELISA; osteo/cemento/odontogenic marker expression via RT-qPCR, and cell mineralized nodule formation via Alizarin Red S staining. HPDLSCs were isolated from extracted third molars from healthy patients. Comparisons were made with hPDLSCs cultured in unconditioned (negative control) or osteogenic (positive control) culture media. Statistical significance was established at p < 0.05.

Results

Both BrF and AHPbcs showed significantly positive results in the cytocompatibility assays (cell metabolic activity, migration, attachment, morphology, and cytoskeleton organization) compared with a negative control group, while AHP showed significant negative results. BrF exhibited an upregulation of at least one osteo/cementogenic marker compared to the negative and positive control groups. BrF showed a significantly higher calcified nodule formation than AHPbcs, the negative and positive control groups, while AHPbcs was higher than the negative control group. Both were also significantly higher than AHP group.

Conclusion

BrF and AHPbcs exhibit adequate and comparable cytocompatibility on hPDLSCs. BrF also promoted the osteo/cementogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs. Both calcium silicate-based sealers favored the downregulation of the inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and the calcified nodule formation from hPDLSCs. BrF exerted a significantly higher influence on cell mineralization than AHPbcs.

Clinical relevance

This is the first study to elucidate the biological properties and immunomodulatory potential of Bioroot Flow and AH Plus Bioceramic Sealer. The results act as supporting evidence for their use in root canal treatment.
Habituation to a predatory stimulus in a harvester (Arachnida, Opiliones)
Authors: Pagoti Guilherme Ferreira , Hogan Jerry A. , Willemart Rodrigo Hirata
Published: March 2024

Several studies have investigated habituation in a defensive context, but few have addressed responses to dangerous stimuli. In such cases, animals should not habituate since this could cost their lives. Here we have stimulated individuals of the harvester Mischonyx squalidus with a predatory stimulus (squeezing with tweezers) in repeated trials within and between days, and measured the occurrence and magnitude of nipping, a defensive behavior. Contrary to our expectations, they did habituate to this stimulus. The probability and magnitude of response declined over trials during each of three days of testing in a typical habituation pattern. During the trials we also observed other defensive behaviors. We discuss our results mainly considering alternative defensive responses. Our data show that we lack information on (1) the role played by the ambiguity of stimuli, (2) the role played by subsequent stimuli and (3) the importance of the array of defensive behaviors of a species in understanding habituation. Although ubiquitous across animals and therefore expected, habituation is described for the first time in the order Opiliones.
Intraventricular or intrathecal polymyxin B for treatment of post-neurosurgical intracranial infection caused by carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria: a 8-year retrospective study
Authors: Hu Yangmin , Li Danyang , Zhang Gensheng , Dai Yunjian , Chen Meng , Jiang Huifang , Cui Wei
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Post-neurosurgical intracranial infection caused by carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria (CRGNB) is a life-threatening complication. This study aimed to assess the current practices and clinical outcomes of intravenous (IV) combined with intraventricular (IVT)/intrathecal (ITH) polymyxin B in treating CRGNB intracranial infection.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on patients with post-neurosurgical intracranial infection due to CRGNB from January 2013 to December 2020. Clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes were collected and described. Kaplan–Meier survival and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

The study included 114 patients, of which 72 received systemic antimicrobial therapy combined with IVT/ITH polymyxin B, and 42 received IV administration alone. Most infections were caused by carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB, 63.2%), followed by carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP, 31.6%). Compared with the IV group, the IVT/ITH group had a higher cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sterilization rate in 7 days (p < 0.001) and lower 30-day mortality (p = 0.032). In the IVT/ITH group, patients with CRKP infection had a higher initial fever (p = 0.014), higher incidence of bloodstream infection (p = 0.040), lower CSF sterilization in 7 days (p < 0.001), and higher 30-day mortality (p = 0.005) than those with CRAB infection. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the duration of IVT/ITH polymyxin B (p = 0.021) was independently associated with 30-day mortality.

Conclusions

Intravenous combined with IVT/ITH polymyxin B increased CSF microbiological eradication and improved clinical outcomes. CRKP intracranial infections may lead to more difficult treatment and thus warrant attention and further optimized treatment.
DilatedToothSegNet: Tooth Segmentation Network on 3D Dental Meshes Through Increasing Receptive Vision
Authors: Krenmayr Lucas , von Schwerin Reinhold , Schaudt Daniel , Riedel Pascal , Hafner Alexander
Published: March 2024

The utilization of advanced intraoral scanners to acquire 3D dental models has gained significant popularity in the fields of dentistry and orthodontics. Accurate segmentation and labeling of teeth on digitized 3D dental surface models are crucial for computer-aided treatment planning. At the same time, manual labeling of these models is a time-consuming task. Recent advances in geometric deep learning have demonstrated remarkable efficiency in surface segmentation when applied to raw 3D models. However, segmentation of the dental surface remains challenging due to the atypical and diverse appearance of the patients’ teeth. Numerous deep learning methods have been proposed to automate dental surface segmentation. Nevertheless, they still show limitations, particularly in cases where teeth are missing or severely misaligned. To overcome these challenges, we introduce a network operator called dilated edge convolution, which enhances the network’s ability to learn additional, more distant features by expanding its receptive field. This leads to improved segmentation results, particularly in complex and challenging cases. To validate the effectiveness of our proposed method, we performed extensive evaluations on the recently published benchmark data set for dental model segmentation Teeth3DS. We compared our approach with several other state-of-the-art methods using a quantitative and qualitative analysis. Through these evaluations, we demonstrate the superiority of our proposed method, showcasing its ability to outperform existing approaches in dental surface segmentation.
Digital learning for preschools: Validation
of basic ICT competence beliefs of preschool teachers in Hong Kong and the
Philippines
Authors: Valdez Jana Patricia M. , Mendoza Norman B.
Published: March 2024

With technology integration efforts expanding to early childhood
education globally, assessing preschool teachers’ technological competence
beliefs is imperative. However, most existing tools measuring teachers’
information and communication technology (ICT) competence beliefs focused on primary
through secondary grades. This study examined the factorial validity, reliability,
and measurement invariance of the Basic ICT Competence Beliefs (BICB) questionnaire
among 209 preschool teachers in Hong Kong and the Philippines. Confirmatory factor
analyses supported the original nine-factor structure over plausible alternative
models. All factors showed good reliability (α = 0.83 to 0.91)
and theoretically meaningful factor intercorrelations. Multigroup CFA results
supported the measurement invariance of the scale. Specifically, the results
demonstrated the configural, metric, scalar, and strict invariance across cultural
groups. Findings provide further validity for the BICB as a psychometrically sound
instrument for assessing preschool teachers’ ICT competence beliefs within
and across contexts. The BICB can help identify teacher strengths and needs, guide
professional development, and evaluate technology integration efforts in early
childhood education in Asia.
Pulsed muon facility of J-PARC MUSE
Authors: Shimomura Koichiro , Koda Akihiko , Pant Amba Datt , Sunagawa Hikaru , Fujimori Hiroshi , Umegaki Izumi , Nakamura Jumpei , Fujihala Masayoshi , Tampo Motonobu , Kawamura Naritoshi , Teshima Natsuki , Strasser Patrick , Kadono Ryosuke , Iwai Ryoto , Matoba Shiro , Nishimura Shoichiro , Kamioka Shusei , Kanda Sohtaro , Takeshita Soshi , Yuasa Takahiro , Ito Takashi , Yamazaki Takayuki , Mibe Tsutomu , Higemoto Wataru , Miyake Yasuhiro , Kobayashi Yasuo , Oishi Yu , Nagatani Yukinori , Ikedo Yutaka
Published: March 2024

J-PARC Muon Facility: MUSE (Muon Science Establishment) is responsible for the inter-university user program and the operation, maintenance, and construction of the muon beamlines, namely D-line, S-line, U-line, and H-line, along with the muon source at J-PARC Materials and Life Science Facility (MLF). In this paper, recent developments are briefly presented.
Solid-state 2H NMR investigation of molecular motion in proton-conducting polyacrylic acid/imidazole composites
Authors: Mizuno Motohiro , Hosoe Nanaka , Kurihara Takuya , Shigeta Yasuhiro , Amemori Shogo , Yamaguchi Naoya , Ishii Fumiyuki
Published: March 2024

The molecular motion of imidazole (Im) in proton-conducting polyacrylic acid (PAA)/Im composite materials (PAA/xIm, where x represents the number of moles of Im per mole of the carboxyl group of PAA) was investigated using solid-state 2H NMR. For the 2H NMR analysis of polymers in which multiple constituents with different kinetic states coexist, we propose the simultaneous analysis of two 2H NMR spectra observed by the quadruple echo method using different echo intervals. The 2H NMR spectra were analyzed by superimposing simulated spectra with different jumping rates of 180° flip and isotropic rotation of Im. For PAA/0.5Im-d3, Im undergoes 180° flip below 343 K and isotropic rotation above 363 K. For PAA/1.0Im-d3, Im undergoes 180° flip below 323 K and isotropic rotation above 363 K. In the temperature range of 333–343 K, Im undergoing 180° flip and isotropic rotation coexist in PAA/1.0Im-d3. The distributions of the jumping rates of 180° flip and isotropic rotation of Im were obtained. The increase in the amount of Im enhances the jumping rate of the isotropic rotation of Im and the proton conductivity of PAA/xIm at high temperatures.