bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pilot randomized controlled trial of biofeedback on reducing psychological and physiological stress among persons experiencing homelessness
Authors: Nyamathi Adeline M. , Salem Benissa E. , Gelberg Lillian , Garfin Dana Rose , Wolitsky‐Taylor Kate , Shin Sanghyuk S. , Yu Zhaoxia , Hudson Angela , Yadav Kartik , Clarke Richard , Alikhani Mitra , van Cise Emily , Lee Darlene
Published: December 2023

People experiencing homelessness report increased exposure to traumatic life events and higher rates of depression, anxiety, and post‐traumatic stress disorder as compared with the general population. Heart rate variability‐biofeedback (HRV‐BF) has been shown to decrease symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. However, HRV‐BF has not been tested with the most vulnerable of populations, homeless adults. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to compare the effectiveness of an HRV‐BF intervention versus a Health Promotion (HP) active control intervention focused on improving mental health symptoms among homeless adults. Guided by a community advisory board, homeless adults residing in Skid Row, Los Angeles (n = 40) were randomized to either the HRV‐BF or an active HP control group and received eight weekly, 30‐min sessions over two months, delivered by a nurse‐led community health worker team. Dependent variables of HRV, mental health, anxiety, depression, and PTSD were measured at baseline, the 8‐week session, and/or 2‐month follow‐up. All intervention sessions were completed by 90% (36/40) of participants. Both the HRV‐BF and HP interventions showed significant increases in HRV from baseline to 2‐month follow‐up, with no significant difference between the intervention groups. The HRV‐BF programme revealed a somewhat greater, although non‐significant, improvement in anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms than the HP programme. The usefulness of both interventions, focused on emotional and physical health, warrants future studies to examine the value of a combined HRV‐BF and HP intervention.
Design of high‐performance and sustainable Co‐free Ni‐rich cathodes for next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Ge Hao , Shen Zhiwen , Wang Yanhong , Sun Zhijia , Cao Xiaoman , Wang Chaoyue , Fan Xinyue , Bai Jinsong , Li Rundong , Yang Tianhua , Wu Gang
Published: December 2023

Great attention has been given to high‐performance and inexpensive lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) in response to the ever‐increasing demand for the explosive growth of electric vehicles (EVs). High‐performance and low‐cost Co‐free Ni‐rich layered cathodes are considered one of the most favorable candidates for next‐generation LIBs because the current supply chain of EVs relies heavily on scarce and expensive Co. Herein, we review the recent research progress on Co‐free Ni‐rich layered cathodes, emphasizing on analyzing the necessity of replacing Co and the popular improvment methods. The current advancements in the design strategies of Co‐free Ni‐rich layered cathodes are summarized in detail. Despite considerable improvements achieved so far, the main technical challenges contributing to the deterioration of Co‐free Ni‐rich cathodes such as detrimental phase transitions, crack formation, and severe interfacial side reactions, are difficult to resolve by a single technique. The cooperation of multiple modification strategies is expected to accelerate the industrialization of Co‐free Ni‐rich layered cathodes, and the corresponding synergistic mechanisms urgently need to be studied. More effects will be aroused to explore high‐performance Co‐free Ni‐rich layered cathodes to promote the sustainable development of LIBs.
Lithium sulfide: a promising prelithiation agent for high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Huang Junkang , Li Weifeng , Zhang Wenli , Lin Bixia , Wang Yang , Or Siu Wing , Sun Shuhui , Xing Zhenyu
Published: December 2023

Lithium‐ion batteries are widely used in portable electronics and electric vehicles due to their high energy density, stable cycle life, and low self‐discharge. However, irreversible lithium loss during the formation of the solid electrolyte interface greatly impairs energy density and cyclability. To compensate for the lithium loss, introducing an external lithium source, that is, a prelithiation agent, is an effective strategy to solve the above problems. Compared with other prelithiation strategies, cathode prelithiation is more cost‐effective with simpler operation. Among various cathode prelithiation agents, we first systematically summarize the recent progress of Li2S‐based prelithiation agents, and then propose some novel strategies to tackle the current challenges. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of Li2S‐based prelithiation agents and new research directions in the future.
Traumatic dentoalveolar fracture in a dog—An unusual and misdiagnosed injury
Authors: Fracascio Sabrina , Pignone Víviam Nunes , Guimarães‐Okamoto Priscylla Tatiana Chalfun , Rahal Sheila Canevese , Melchert Alessandra
Published: December 2023

The lateral luxation of a tooth is a traumatic dentoalveolar injury, which causes partial or complete tooth displacement and periodontal damage. We report a female mixed‐breed dog referred to the dentistry service with a lateral luxation of the maxillary left canine tooth due to a trauma‐related alveolar bone fracture. This unusual lesion is often misdiagnosed as a tooth fracture and potentially treated with extraction. Another major challenge is the need for emergency treatment since time decreases the number of periodontal ligament cells and hinders the pulp vascular supply. Without endodontic treatment, it may progress to pulp necrosis, root reabsorption and tooth loss. Instead of the classical treatment with a ligature wire, we performed a splint with acrylic resin, followed by root canal therapy and postoperative care. This technique was successful and spared the tooth, which remained structurally and periodontally sound and functional over 2 years of follow‐up.
Temporal covariance of spatial soil moisture variations: A mechanistic error modeling approach
Authors: Hendrickx Marit G. A. , Diels Jan , Janssens Pieter , Schlüter Steffen , Vanderborght Jan
Published: December 2023

When estimating field‐scale average soil moisture from sensors measuring at fixed positions, spatial variability in soil moisture leads to “measurement errors” of the spatial mean, which may persist over time due to persistent soil moisture patterns resulting in autocorrelated measurement errors. The uncertainty of parameters that are derived from such measurements may be underestimated when they are assumed to be independent. Temporal autocorrelation models assume stationary random errors, but such error models are not necessarily applicable to soil moisture measurements. As an alternative, we propose a mechanistic error model that is based on the spatial variability of the water retention curve and assumes a uniform water potential. We tested whether spatial soil moisture variability and its temporal covariance could be predicted based on (1) mean soil moisture, (2) water retention variability, and (3) (co)variances of the van Genuchten parameters using a first‐order expansion of the retention curve. The proposed models were tested in a numerical and a field experiment. For the field experiment, in situ sensor measurements and water retention curves were obtained in a field plot. Both experiments showed that water retention variability under a uniform water potential is a good predictor for spatial soil moisture variability, and that soil moisture errors are strongly correlated in time and neglecting them would be an incorrect assumption. The temporal error covariance could be predicted as a function of the mean moisture contents at two observation times. Further research is required to assess the impact of these temporal correlations on soil moisture predictions.
New insights into the correlation between soil thermal conductivity and water retention in unsaturated soils
Authors: Fu Yongwei , Ghanbarian Behzad , Horton Robert , Heitman Joshua
Published: December 2023

The heat transfer and water retention in soils, governed by soil thermal conductivity (λ) and soil water retention curve (SWRC), are coupled. Soil water content (θ) significantly affects λ. Several models have been developed to describe λ(θ) relationships for unsaturated soils. Ghanbarian and Daigle presented a percolation‐based effective‐medium approximation (P‐EMA) for λ(θ) with two parameters: scaling exponent (ts) and critical water content (θc). In this study, we explored the new insights into the correlation between soil thermal conductivity and water retention using the P‐EMA and van Genuchten models. The θc was strongly correlated to selected soil hydraulic and physical properties, such as water contents at wilting point (θpwp), inflection point (θi), and hydraulic continuity (θhc) determined from measured SWRCs for a 23‐soil calibration dataset. The established relationships were then evaluated on a seven‐soil validation dataset to estimate θc. Results confirmed their robustness with root mean square error ranging from 0.011 to 0.015 cm3 cm−3, MAE ranging from 0.008 to 0.013 cm3 cm−3, and R2 of 0.98. Further discussion investigated the underlying mechanism for the correlation between θc with θhc which dominate both heat transfer and water flow. More importantly, this study revealed the possibility to further investigate the general relationship between λ(θ) and SWRC data in the future.
The yeast–human coevolution: Fungal transition from passengers, colonizers, and invaders
Authors: Nenciarini Stefano , Renzi Sonia , di Paola Monica , Meriggi Niccolò , Cavalieri Duccio
Published: December 2023

Fungi are the cause of more than a billion infections in humans every year, although their interactions with the host are still neglected compared to bacteria. Major systemic fungal infections are very unusual in the healthy population, due to the long history of coevolution with the human host. Humans are routinely exposed to environmental fungi and can host a commensal mycobiota, which is increasingly considered as a key player in health and disease. Here, we review the current knowledge on host‐fungi coevolution and the factors that regulate their interaction. On one hand, fungi have learned to survive and inhabit the host organisms as a natural ecosystem, on the other hand, the host immune system finely tunes the response toward fungi. In turn, recognition of fungi as commensals or pathogens regulates the host immune balance in health and disease. In the human gut ecosystem, yeasts provide a fingerprint of the transient microbiota. Their status as passengers or colonizers is related to the integrity of the gut barrier and the risk of multiple disorders. Thus, the study of this less known component of the microbiota could unravel the rules of the transition from passengers to colonizers and invaders, as well as their dependence on the innate component of the host's immune response.

This article is categorized under:

Infectious Diseases > Environmental Factors

Immune System Diseases > Environmental Factors

Infectious Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
Judaism and Engagements with Nature: Theology and Practice
Authors: Welch Christina , Amswych Neil
Published: December 2023

This chapter explores Jewish engagements with nature through the lens of grassroots Jewish eco-action and sustainability against the background of respect for, and sustainability of the created natural world in Jewish textual sources. It pivots around the work of Reform Rabbi Neil Amswych and his faith-based pioneering work in ecologically focussed interfaith action in Dorset (England), whilst drawing globally on Jewish permaculture initiatives, educational programmes and the ritual of Tu Bish’vat, the New Year of the Trees festival that emphasises both sustainable environmentalism, and the connection between social justice and ecology. It also highlights the importance of Tikkun Olam, the Kabbalistic mystical concept of Healing the World, and how education can help Jews of all ages support this Jewish principle.
The Virtual Wild: Exploring the Intersection of Virtual Reality and Natural Environments
Authors: Grassini Simone , Ratcliffe Eleanor
Published: December 2023

This chapter considers the potential of virtual reality (VR) technology in fostering mental well-being and raising environmental consciousness. As urbanisation leads to a decline in green spaces, VR emerges as a solution by simulating natural environments, providing an innovative approach to health and well-being. The chapter investigates the capacity of VR to evoke emotional responses thus potentially promoting prosocial behaviour and effective environmental communication. It also examines how VR can help frame environmental messages and the need for more empirical research to understand the effects of message framing on pro-environmental behaviour. Furthermore, the chapter considers the psychological benefits of VR nature experiences and the rise of virtual reality tourism as a sustainable alternative to traditional tourism, which often contributes to environmental degradation due to associated economic activities. Despite facing challenges and limitations such as lack of standardisation and varying user acceptance, VR technology holds promise in the fields of environmental education and nature-based health promotion, meriting further exploration and research.
What Does the Global Biodiversity Framework Mean for Protected and Conserved Areas?
Authors: Dudley Nigel
Published: December 2023

The Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), agreed by signatory states of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in December 2022, is the latest and most ambitious plan to date to halt and reverse global biodiversity loss. Target 3 aims to conserve at least 30% of land, inland water and marine ecosystems in protected and conserved areas by 2030 (the 30 × 30 target). This target contains many elements and this chapter discusses the most important ways in which the GBF will influence conservation. Nine issues are identified: (1) the level of ambition inherent in the 30% target itself; (2) inclusion of inland waters in the wording, reflecting particularly severe threats to freshwater biodiversity; (3) increased ambition for protection of coastal and marine areas, including the high seas; (4) emphasis on a new conservation mechanism, ‘other effective area-based conservation measures’ (OECMs); (5) Inclusion of indigenous and traditional territories as a third category within 30 × 30; (6) the importance of effectiveness; (7) coupled with equitable management; (8) integration of protected areas and OECMs into wider landscapes and seascapes; and (9) additional emphasis on the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities. The politics behind the decisions taken at the CBD meeting are analysed.
Managing a UNESCO World Heritage Site in a Post-colonial, Post-conflict and Post-disaster Destination. The Case of the Haitian National History Park
Authors: Belfort Jocelyn , Séraphin Hugues , Lubrun Godson
Published: December 2023

The Haitian National History Park, which comprises the historical sites of the Citadel, Sans-Souci and Ramiers, is Haiti’s sole UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site aims to contribute to fostering a sense of community among all Haitians. Equally importantly, it seeks to instil a sense of national pride despite the negative image of Haiti conveyed by the popular media. All the attempts to turn the Park into a tourist destination have failed however, despite the site’s huge potential. On top of the political, economic and social issues faced by modern Haiti, the lack of leadership on developing tourism strategies also impacts negatively on the promotion of the site. This chapter considers the main difficulties of managing a Caribbean UNESCO site within a post-colonial, post-conflict and post-disaster context. Key issues that are faced include: lack of professionalism of tourism actors, lack of leadership and absence of vision, lack of knowledge of visitor needs and requirements, as well as the problematic external image of Haiti as a tourism destination. Although the focus of the paper is on a cultural heritage site, we raise wider issues here that have relevance to other debates around how heritage in an environment such as Haiti’s might be managed.
(Re)Connecting with Nature: Exploring Nature-Based Interventions for Psychological Health and Wellbeing
Authors: Gray Debra , Hewlett Denise , Hammon Julie , Aburrow Stephanie
Published: December 2023

Given the ever-expanding body of evidence that nature is good for our psychological wellbeing, many have argued that nature-based interventions have the capacity to provide effective, equitable and cost-effective ways of promoting mental health and wellbeing across all ages. Recent decades have seen a significant expansion in this field, from interventions which are focused on ‘bringing nature to people’ by greening local environments, to those that are focused on ‘bringing people to nature’ by encouraging adults and children to participate in nature-based activities. In this chapter, we review the diversity of this field, and evaluate the current evidence base (and its gaps) for how, when and for whom such interventions are effective. Recommendations for future research programmes in this area are provided.
Regulating AI: Challenges and the Way Forward Through Regulatory Sandboxes
Authors: Yordanova Katerina , Bertels Natalie
Published: December 2023

Financial industry was the first filed where it became clear that we needed a new type of regulation, an evolutionary and anticipatory approach that can at least stand chance to mitigate the new risks posed by disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). This approach took the shape of various tools, none of which has showed more prominence than the regulatory sandboxes. This rather young approach to regulation spread across various sectors and jurisdictions from FinTech to privacy and healthcare.

The European Commission recognised the potential of the regulatory sandboxes as an increasing compliance mechanism but also as a way to facilitate innovation and thus included them as part of the draft regulation on artificial intelligence (the AI Act). In this article we analyse the potential of the regulatory sandboxes for regulating AI in the format envisioned in Article 53 and 54 from the draft AI Act and the challenges this approach could face based on the experience from earlier regulatory sandboxes involving AI products or services. We also aim to suggest some tailor-made solutions that would mitigate potential disadvantages of the regulatory sandboxes for AI, including how to balance the emerging ‘Innovation Principle’ and the protection of human rights.
The Dilemma of Good Governance Versus Power Grab in Georgia
Authors: Dzebisashvili Shalva
Published: December 2023

This chapter deals with the problem of informal governance and the diffusion of “bad governance” practices in the context of regime transition and the change of political elites in Georgia. The general assumption is that the democratization process aims to solidify democratic gains and stabilize institutional performance regarding transparency and accountability (good governance). The reality in the post-Soviet region, however, often renders the opposite results, in which the new ruling political elite is content with the current lack of democratic practices, continues to take advantage of informal rule and reform masking, and does little to prevent the complete monopolization of power (state capture). Using the example of power transition in Georgia, where in 2012, the National Movement party led by President Saakashvili was defeated in parliamentary elections and had to hand over the power to the opposition conglomerate Georgian Dream, we take a closer look at the failed attempt to establish a tradition of democratic transition that, instead of cementing the mechanisms of good governance, resulted in societal polarization, the politicization of institutions and robust instances of state capture.
Introduction to the Special Section
Authors: Mihr A. , Pierobon C.
Published: December 2023

In July 2023, the OSCE Parliamentarian Assembly adopted the Vancouver Declaration during its 30th Session, condemning Russia’s aggression and war crimes in Ukraine and calling for an end to the nuclear threat escalation fuelled by Russia’s invasion of and so-called “special military operation” in Ukraine on the 24th of February 2022. Russian parliamentarians did not participate in the Assembly (OSCE 2023). Ever since, this invasion has been declared a violation of international law by the OSCE, UN, and EU, and a “war of aggression against Ukraine” by the ICC. This Special Section is dedicated to the events unfolding since February of 2022 and the responses by different states, organizations, and actors toward these. The following chapters illustrate and represent different views and perspectives on the war, crisis and conflict in Ukraine from across the OSCE region.
Italian Governments and Political Parties Vis-a-Vis the War in Ukraine
Authors: Bruno Valerio Alfonso , Fazio Federica
Published: December 2023

This chapter presents the positioning of the Italian governments and political parties vis-à-vis Russia’s war in Ukraine. We first look at former Italian prime minister Mario Draghi’s government from 13 February 2021–22 October 2022, and secondly at his successor, Prime minister Giorgia Meloni’s government from 22 October 2022–present. Furthermore, we assess Italy’s main political parties and their narratives concerning the conflict in Ukraine. In this chapter, we argue that the transition from the Draghi to the Meloni administration is not showing any significant changes in policies or positions vis-à-vis the war in Ukraine. However, military aid to Ukraine, alongside potential increases in the Italian defense budget, caused tensions among Draghi’s coalition partners, notably the Five-Star Movement, eventually triggering the collapse of his national unity government. The ambiguous and inconsistent positioning of Meloni’s coalition partners, Forza Italia and the League, risks triggering a similar crisis within the right-wing bloc that won the election.
Assessing Water (Ir)Rationality in Nagorno-Karabakh
Authors: Zanatta Leonardo , Alvi Marco
Published: December 2023

The deterioration and scarcity of water resources have increasingly been at the heart of debates on regional security, with disputes over management and ownership of waterways leading both upstream and downstream countries to the brink of conflict. Such danger has emphasized the need for transboundary cooperation to ensure water security and regional governance. The present chapter focuses on a region where military security, economic viability, and national sentiment have overshadowed transboundary water management issues: Nagorno-Karabakh. As home to the headwaters of rivers, dams, and hydropower plants alike, the lands in and around Nagorno-Karabakh have played a vital role in providing water to an area that has been particularly afflicted by water scarcity. In the last three decades, this case has assumed significant importance in the literature on water conflicts because of the status of Nagorno-Karabakh as an upstream non-internationally recognized state whose control has been disputed by Armenia and Azerbaijan since the collapse of the Soviet Union. On 9 November 2020, the leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a Russia-brokered agreement to end the military operations in Karabakh after 44 days of war. As evidenced by the reciprocal accusations of eco-terrorism and environmental sabotage, mutual distrust and deep politicization prevent the two sides from achieving successful transboundary management, which fosters instability in the region. The present chapter will assess and compare the main theories on water governance, exploring possible diplomatic outcomes between Armenia and Azerbaijan in convergence with the other regional states—Georgia, Russia, Turkey, and Iran—to foster successful cooperation over shared water resources.
Human Rights Adjudication in Central Asia
Authors: Toktogazieva Saniia
Published: December 2023

In this chapter, I will explore human rights adjudication in three Central Asian countries, namely, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan, in the context of external power dynamics. The chapter will show that external factors are shaping the internal political dynamics and fundamental rights adjudication in Central Asia. The cases discussed in this chapter will reveal a common trend across Central Asia involving a shift from monism toward dualism in constitutional texts and in the interpretations of Constitutional Courts (CCs) on the relationship between domestic law and international human rights law. Furthermore, the chapter will demonstrate that Central Asian CCs tend to adopt a pluralistic approach to interpreting the relationship between domestic law and laws regulating Russian-led regional organizations, such as the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).
Real-time spin systems from lattice field theory
Authors: Warrington Neill C.
Published: December 2023

Abstract

We construct a lattice field theory method for computing the real-time dynamics of spin systems in a thermal bath. This is done by building on previous work of Takano with Schwinger-Keldysh and functional differentiation techniques. We derive a Schwinger-Keldysh path integral for generic spin Hamiltonians, then demonstrate the method on a simple system. Our path integral has a sign problem, which generally requires exponential run time in the system size, but requires only linear storage. The latter may place this method at an advantage over exact diagonalization, which is exponential in both. Our path integral is amenable to contour deformations, a technique for reducing sign problems.
More on the tensionless limit of pure-Ramond-Ramond AdS3/CFT2
Authors: Brollo Alberto , le Plat Dennis , Sfondrini Alessandro , Suzuki Ryo
Published: December 2023

Abstract

In a recent letter we presented the equations which describe tensionless limit of the excited-state spectrum for strings on AdS3 × S3 × T4 supported by Ramond-Ramond flux, and their numerical solution. In this paper, we give a detailed account of the derivation of these equations from the mirror TBA equations proposed by Frolov and Sfondrini, discussing the contour-deformation trick which we used to obtain excited-state equations and the tensionless limit. We also comment at length on the algorithm for the numerical solution of the equations in the tensionless limit, and present a number of explicit numerical results, as well as comment on their interpretation.
Variability in the duration and timing of the estuarine to freshwater transition of critically endangered European eel Anguilla anguilla
Authors: Boardman Rose M. , Pinder Adrian C. , Piper Adam T. , Roberts Catherine Gutmann , Wright Rosalind M. , Britton J. Robert
Published: December 2023

The European eel (Anguilla anguilla L.) is a critically endangered catadromous fish. Their inshore and in-river arrival as glass eel and elvers is an important stage of their life cycle, marking the transition from marine to freshwater habitats. Considerable knowledge gaps remain on the temporal and spatial patterns of this transition period to freshwater residency. Stable isotope (SI) analysis (δ13C, δ15N) was used to assess the timing and duration of the marine to freshwater transition among glass eels and elvers migrating upstream of the weirs at, or just upstream of, the tidal limit of four English rivers. (Parrett, Frome, Piddle, Chelmer). Variability in SI was low in the Parrett and Frome, resulting in narrow isotopic niches, but was high in the Piddle and Chelmer, resulting in wider niches. The Parrett and Frome data were then used to train a discriminant function analysis (DFA) model to classify eels as ‘marine’, ‘freshwater-established’ and ‘transitioning’. When applied to the Piddle and Chelmer eel SI data, only a small proportion of eels were classified as marine and transitioning, with most being freshwater established. These results suggest that most eels present in the lower reaches rivers have been present for sufficient time for their SI values to represent feeding on local prey resources, with relatively few eels being newly arrived from the marine environment. The transition of eels from marine to freshwater in this species can therefore be prolonged, with many ascending rivers at least one winter after their initial arrival.
Development of a 3D-printed neonatal congenital diaphragmatic hernia model and standardisation of intra-operative measurement
Authors:   Paediatric Surgical Trainees Research Network (PSTRN), Bethell George S. , Eastwood Mary Patrice , Neville Jonathan J. , Harwood Rachel , Ali Sajeed , Ooi Setthasorn Zhi Yang , Brown Joshua , Tullie Lucinda , Hotonu Sesi , Bradnock Timothy J. , Hall Nigel J. ,   SurgeryLabs PSTRN, Chacon Sofia , Osgouei Reza Haghighi , Neville Jonathan J.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is frequently used for surgical simulation and training, however, no widely available model exists for neonatal congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The aim of this study was to develop a 3D-printed model of CDH and test interobserver variability in the simulated model for obtaining measurements of the diaphragmatic defect and ipsilateral diaphragm.

Methods

A term fetal MRI (3.5 kg) of thorax, diaphragm and defect (15 mm × 5 mm) were delineated and segmented after parental consent to produce 3D-printed models. Consultant and trainee paediatric surgeons were invited to measure the posterior-lateral diaphragmatic defect and ipsilateral diaphragm. Mean measurement error was calculated (millimetres). Data are presented as median (range) and number/total (%).

Results

An abdominal and thoracoscopic model were produced and tested by 52 participants (20 consultants and 32 trainees). Diaphragmatic defect via laparotomy measured 15 (10–20) mm (AP) × 16 (10–25) mm (ML) and thoracoscopically 14 (11–19) mm (AP) × 15 (11–22) mm (ML). Mean error per measurement was 4 (1–17) mm via laparotomy vs. 3 (0.5–9.5) mm thoracoscopically. Mean error was similar between consultants and trainees via laparotomy (4.3 vs. 3.9 mm, p = 0.70) and thoracoscopically (3 vs. 3 mm, p = 0.79). Error did not correlate with experience as operating surgeon via laparotomy (β = 13.0 [95% CI − 55.9 to 82.0], p = 0.71) or thoracoscopically (β = 1.4[95% CI − 6.4 to 9.2], p = 0.73.

Conclusions

We have designed and built simulation models for CDH repair via laparotomy and thoracoscopically. Operators can reliably measure the diaphragmatic defect and ipsilateral diaphragm, regardless of surgical experience and operative approach.
Biodegradable flexible foam: Novel material based on cassava TPS obtained by extrusion
Authors: Alban-Bolaños Pedro , Ayala-Aponte Alfredo Adolfo , Villada-Castillo Héctor Samuel , Rodríguez-Herrera Raúl , Ávalos-Belmonte Felipe , Solanilla-Duque José Fernando
Published: December 2023

Thermoplastic foams made from petrochemical polymers are commonly commercialized in the market, which, due to their chemical nature, require hundreds of years to degrade and therefore end up accumulating and polluting the environment. Therefore, the present research sought to develop a biodegradable foam from thermoplastic cassava starch, biodegradable polyester, and wheat gluten. Initially, an extreme vertex blend design was run, which comprised 60 to 70% thermoplastic starch (TPS), 30 to 40% biodegradable polyester, and 0 to 5% wheat gluten, the foam was obtained by extrusion and evaluated for expansion rate, bulk density, damping index, and morphology. A thin layer of rubber latex was applied to the foamed material with the most outstanding properties in order to reduce moisture adsorption, and its biodegradability was also evaluated. The results indicated that with the addition of 70% TPS, 30% polyester, and 0% wheat gluten, it was possible to obtain by extrusion a flexible thermoplastic foam with high radial expansion rate and low bulk density. Impregnation of the foam with natural rubber latex created an impermeable layer that helped to decrease moisture adsorption; however, there was an increase in compressibility. Also, it was found that this foam met the biodegradability condition since it presented a percentage of mineralization in relative terms of 97.59% in less than 180 days.
MRI segmentation of tooth tissue in age prediction of sub-adults — a new method for combining data from the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd molars
Authors: Bjørk Mai Britt , Bleka Øyvind , Kvaal Sigrid Ingeborg , Sakinis Tomas , Tuvnes Frode Alexander , Eggesbø Heidi Beate , Lauritzen Peter Mæhre
Published: December 2023

Purpose

We aimed to establish a model combining MRI volume measurements from the 1st, 2nd and 3rd molars for age prediction in sub-adults and compare the age prediction performance of different combinations of all three molars, internally in the study cohort.

Material and method

We examined 99 volunteers using a 1.5 T MR scanner with a customized high-resolution single T2 sequence. Segmentation was performed using SliceOmatic (Tomovision©). Age prediction was based on the tooth tissue ratio (high signal soft tissue + low signal soft tissue)/total. The model included three correlation parameters to account for statistical dependence between the molars. Age prediction performance of different combinations of teeth for the three molars was assessed using interquartile range (IQR).

Results

We included data from the 1st molars from 87 participants (F/M 59/28), 2nd molars from 93 (F/M 60/33) and 3rd molars from 67 (F/M 45/22). The age range was 14–24 years with a median age of 18 years. The model with the best age prediction performance (smallest IQR) was 46–47-18 (lower right 1st and 2nd and upper right 3rd molar) in males. The estimated correlation between the different molars was 0.620 (46 vs. 47), 0.430 (46 vs. 18), and 0.598 (47 vs. 18). IQR was the smallest in tooth combinations including a 3rd molar.

Conclusion

We have established a model for combining tissue volume measurements from the 1st, 2nd and 3rd molars for age prediction in sub-adults. The prediction performance was mostly driven by the 3rd molars. All combinations involving the 3rd molar performed well.
Robot-assisted resection of benign splenic tumors in children
Authors: Cai Duote , Ying Yan , Fan Jiani , Jin Yi , Huang Zongwei , Zhang Yuebin , Zhang Shuhao , Chen Qingjiang , Gao Zhigang
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Robotic surgery is becoming increasingly widely used in the field of pediatric surgery. The present study aimed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of robot-assisted resection of benign pediatric splenic tumors and to discuss the technical points.

Methods

A total of 32 patients who were diagnosed with benign splenic tumors and underwent minimally invasive surgery from January 2017 to September 2023 were included in the study. The clinical data including demographic criteria, operative details, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Thirteen patients underwent robot-assisted surgery, and 19 patients underwent laparoscopic surgery. The median operation time was 150 min, with an interquartile range (IQR) of 120 to 200 min for the robot-assisted group and 140 min with an IQR of 105 to 180 min in the laparoscopic group (P = 0.318). Despite four cases in the laparoscopic group (21%) being converted to laparotomy because of intraoperative bleeding, compared with none in the robot-assisted group, there was no significant difference between two groups (P = 0.128). The intraoperative volume of blood loss was significantly less (P = 0.041), and the hospitalization expense was significantly higher (P = 0.000) in the robot-assisted group than for the laparoscopic group. There was no significant difference in patients’ age, tumor size, postoperative feeding time, and the postoperative hospitalization time between two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Robot-assisted benign splenic tumor resection was safe and feasible, and it reduced surgical trauma for the pediatric patient.
Climate-dependent plant responses to earthworms in two land-use types
Authors: Liu Qun , Eisenhauer Nico , Scheu Stefan , Angst Gerrit , Bücker Miriam , Huang Yuanyuan , Meador Travis B. , Schädler Martin
Published: December 2023

Plant nutrient uptake and productivity are driven by a multitude of factors that have been modified by human activities, like climate change and the activity of decomposers. However, interactive effects of climate change and key decomposer groups like earthworms have rarely been studied. In a field microcosm experiment, we investigated the effects of a mean future climate scenario with warming (+ 0.50 °C to + 0.62 °C) and altered precipitation (+ 10% in spring and autumn, − 20% in summer) and earthworms (anecic—two Lumbricus terrestris, endogeic—four Allolobophora chlorotica and both together within 10 cm diameter tubes) on plant biomass and stoichiometry in two land-use types (intensively used meadow and conventional farming). We found little evidence for earthworm effects on aboveground biomass. However, future climate increased above- (+40.9%) and belowground biomass (+44.7%) of grass communities, which was mainly driven by production of the dominant Festulolium species during non-summer drought periods, but decreased the aboveground biomass (− 36.9%) of winter wheat. Projected climate change and earthworms interactively affected the N content and C:N ratio of grasses. Earthworms enhanced the N content (+1.2%) thereby decreasing the C:N ratio (− 4.1%) in grasses, but only under ambient climate conditions. The future climate treatment generally decreased the N content of grasses (aboveground: − 1.1%, belowground: − 0.15%) and winter wheat (− 0.14%), resulting in an increase in C:N ratio of grasses (aboveground: + 4.2%, belowground: +6.3%) and wheat (+5.9%). Our results suggest that climate change diminishes the positive effects of earthworms on plant nutrient uptakes due to soil water deficit, especially during summer drought.
Clinical practice guideline on the use of single-operator cholangioscopy in the diagnosis of indeterminate biliary stricture and the treatment of difficult biliary stones
Authors: Rey Rubiano Adriana Margarita , González-Teshima Laura Yuriko , Arango Lázaro , Blanco-Avellaneda Camilo , Carvajal Gutiérrez Jhon Jaime , Castaño-Llano Rodrigo , Gómez Zuleta Martin Alonso , González Carlos , Peñaloza-Ramírez Arecio , Pinilla Morales Raúl , Pinto Carta Renzo , Polanía Liscano Héctor Adolfo , Rincón Sánchez Reinaldo Andrés , Sepúlveda Copete Mauricio , Vargas-Rubio Rómulo , Avendaño Capriles Camilo Andrés , García-Sierra Andrés Mauricio , Yepes-Nuñez Juan José
Published: December 2023

Background and aims

Single-operator cholangioscopy (SOC) offer a diagnostic and therapeutic alternative with an improved optical resolution over conventional techniques; however, there are no standardized clinical practice guidelines for this technology. This evidence-based guideline from the Colombian Association of Digestive Endoscopy (ACED) intends to support patients, clinicians, and others in decisions about using in adults the SOC compared to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), to diagnose indeterminate biliary stricture and to manage difficult biliary stones.

Methods

ACED created a multidisciplinary guideline panel balanced to minimize potential bias from conflicts of interest. Universidad de los Andes and the Colombia Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Network supported the guideline-development process, updating and performing systematic evidence reviews. The panel prioritized clinical questions and outcomes according to their importance for clinicians and patients. The GRADE approach was used, including GRADE Evidence-to-Decision frameworks.

Results

The panel agreed on one recommendation for adult patients with indeterminate biliary strictures and one for adult patients with difficult biliary stones when comparing SOC versus ERCP.

Conclusion

For adult patients with indeterminate biliary strictures, the panel made a conditional recommendation for SOC with stricture pattern characterization over ERCP with brushing and/or biopsy for sensitivity, specificity, and procedure success rate outcomes. For the adult patients with difficult biliary stones the panel made conditional recommendation for SOC over ERCP with large-balloon dilation of papilla. Additional research is required on economic estimations of SOC and knowledge translation evaluations to implement SOC intervention in local contexts.
Shared atypical spontaneous brain activity pattern in early onset schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders: evidence from cortical surface-based analysis
Authors: Jin Xingyue , Zhang Kun , Lu Bin , Li Xue , Yan Chao-Gan , Du Yasong , Liu Yi , Lu Jianping , Luo Xuerong , Gao Xueping , Liu Jing
Published: December 2023

Schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) were considered as two neurodevelopmental disorders and had shared clinical features. we hypothesized that they have some common atypical brain functions and the purpose of this study was to explored the shared brain spontaneous activity strength alterations in early onset schizophrenia (EOS) and ASD in the children and adolescents with a multi-center large-sample study. A total of 171 EOS patients (aged 14.25 ± 1.87), 188 ASD patients (aged 9.52 ± 5.13), and 107 healthy controls (aged 11.52 ± 2.82) had scanned with Resting-fMRI and analyzed surface-based amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF). Results showed that both EOS and ASD had hypoactivity in the primary sensorimotor regions (bilateral primary and early visual cortex, left ventral visual stream, left primary auditory cortex) and hyperactivity in the high-order transmodal regions (bilateral SFL, bilateral DLPFC, right frontal eye fields), and bilateral thalamus. EOS had more severe abnormality than ASD. This study revealed shared functional abnormalities in the primary sensorimotor regions and the high-order transmodal regions in EOS and ASD, which provided neuroimaging evidence of common changes in EOS and ASD, and may help with better early recognition and precise treatment for EOS and ASD.
Neuro-oncological research output in Africa: a scoping review of primary brain tumors
Authors: Moawad Mostafa Hossam El din , Al-Jafari Mohammad , Taha Amira Mohamed , A’amar Jenan Walid , Alsayed Omar , Fayad Taha , Sadeq Mohammed Ahmed , Albakri Khaled , Serag Ibrahim
Published: December 2023

Background

There is evidence that individuals of African ancestry, particularly those residing in Africa, suffer from an unfortunate amount of under-representation in cancer research worldwide.

Aim

We aimed to analyze current research output and potentially predict future trends in neuro-oncological research in Africa. Investigating deficits in the field will assist in identifying top-performing countries, which ones face challenges, and how to solve them. Therefore, targeted interventions can be applied to overcome these challenges.

Methods

We conducted a systematic computer-based search on the following databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase) for research articles related to the neuro-oncological field in Africa. We aimed to retrieve any article published in the period between 1 January 2000 and 10 January 2023.

Results

We included 200 eligible articles in our study. The output of neuro-oncological research has been increasing over the past two decades, peaking in 2019. Among the included articles, clinical practice issues constituted the majority (80%), while public health-related topics accounted for 20% of the publications. Regarding the type of neurological tumor, neuroblastoma was the most common, with 26 articles (13%), meningioma with 21 (10.5%), and glioma with 16 articles (8%).

Conclusion

The interest in African neuro-oncological research is increasing. Hence, there is a need for ongoing efforts to address issues with clinical practice and public health related to neurological tumors in the continent. Future studies should concentrate on filling in knowledge gaps and investigating novel methods for neuro-oncological conditions that affect African populations in terms of prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies.
Synthesis of highly basic, low-cost iron oxides from tin can waste as valorization of municipal solid waste and study of their catalytic efficiency as potent catalysts for MEK production
Authors: Gomaa Abouelhassan A. , Osman Ahmed I. , Halawy Samih A. , Mohamed Mohamed A. , Abdelkader Adel
Published: December 2023

In the present study, low-cost iron oxide catalysts have been prepared by a simple precipitation method using tin food can waste as a source of iron and sodium hydroxide or ammonium hydroxide solution as a precipitating agent. The prepared catalysts were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential thermal analysis (DTA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), FT-IR spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), EDAX quantitative elemental analysis, and BET surface area measurements. Surface basicity of iron oxide catalysts was measured by adsorption of carbon dioxide as an acidic probe molecule, followed by desorption measurements using the TGA technique. The prepared iron oxide catalysts were tested by dehydrogenation of 2-butanol to methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) at a temperature range of 275–375 °C. Commercial iron oxide was tested under identical reaction conditions for comparison with the prepared catalysts. The results indicated the superiority of the prepared catalysts over the commercial one and the superiority of the catalyst prepared using NaOH over that prepared using NH4OH as precipitating agents. The use of different precipitating agents affects the surface morphology and, consequently, the catalytic activity of the produced iron oxide catalysts.

Graphical abstract
Melanin-based plumage coloration and melanin content in organs in the barn owl
Authors: Roulin Alexandre , Dubey Sylvain , Ito Shosuke , Wakamatsu Kazumasa
Published: December 2023

Although the evolutionary ecology of melanin pigments and melanin-based coloration has been studied in great details, particularly in birds, little is known about the function of melanin stored inside the body. In the barn owl Tyto alba, in which individuals vary in the degree of reddish pheomelanin-based coloration and in the size of black eumelanic feather spots, we measured the concentration in melanin pigments in seven organs. The eyes had by far the most melanin then the skin, pectoral muscle, heart, liver, trachea, and uropygial gland. The concentration in eumelanin was not necessarily correlated with the concentration in pheomelanin suggesting that their production can be regulated independently from each other. Redder barn owls had more pheomelanin in the skin and uropygial gland than white owls, while owls displaying larger black feather spots had more eumelanin in the skin than small-spotted owls. More data are required to evaluate whether melanin-based traits can evolve as an indirect response to selection exerted on melanin deposition in organs.