bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Our Initial Experience of First 50 Cases of Robotic-Arm Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, Mehta Chandan , Desai Mohan Madhav ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, Chitnavis Swapnil ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, Jain Kushagra ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, Shah Urvil ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Published: December 2024

Purpose: Robotic-arm-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RA-TKA) has been criticized for an increased operative time, longer incision, the extra incision for insertion of pins and various other potential complications. We want to describe our initial experience of the first 50 cases of RA-TKA (of fully automatic robot) regarding the learning curve for operative time, accuracy of implant positioning, and the accuracy of achieving a well-balanced knee through the assessment of gaps.
Materials and Methods: Retrospective analysis of the first 50 patients was done who underwent RA-TKA, all of which were performed by a senior surgeon experienced in conventional manual jig-based TKA. Operative time, accuracy of implant positing, restoration of limb alignment, and intraoperative gap balancing were assessed. Linear regression analysis and cumulative sum (CUSUM) sequential analysis were used to assess the learning curve for the operative time.
Results: In our experience, the learning curve for operative time in RA-TKA is around 25 cases as per CUSUM sequential analysis. The linear regression analysis showed a gradual decrease in the operative time as the number of RA-TKA performed cases increased (cases 1–10 = 76.8 ± 16 min, cases 11–20 = 72.5 ± 13 min, cases 21–30 = 63.6 ± 7 min, cases 31–40 = 61.3 ± 6 min, and cases 41–50 = 57.3 ± 10 min) – statically significant (P < 0.05) after 20 cases. There is no learning curve for the accuracy of achieving the planned implant position (P = n.s.) and limb alignment (P = n.s.). Only three cases were outliers, HKA angle <174° for varus phenotype, and HKA >183° for valgus phenotype. Forty-six cases (out of 50) had all the gaps within 3 mm of each other (sensitivity of the robot is <1 mm).
Conclusion: Implementation of RA-TKA into the surgical workflow is associated with a learning curve for the operative times, which eventually decreases but this does not lead to any compromise in the accuracy of implant positioning or overall limb alignment. The RA-TKA has shown improved accuracy in implant positioning, improved limb alignment, thereby reducing outliers, and improved gap balancing. All this translates to better clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Keywords: Robotic arm assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty, Learning Curve, Operative time, Implant Positioning, Gap Balancing
Use of Skeletal Traction in Distal 1/3rd Tibia Intraoperatively for Achieving Reduction in Proximal Tibia Fracture
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, DY Patil Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India., Butala Rajendraprasad Ramesh , Das Sonali ,   Department of Orthopaedics, DY Patil Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India., Khatod Garvit ,   Department of Orthopaedics, DY Patil Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Skeletal traction is a technique used to manage fractures by applying continuous axial force directly to the bone through a pin inserted through it. This method is particularly useful in maintaining proper alignment of fracture fragments, reducing pain, and preventing muscle spasms. It is commonly employed in the management of long bone fractures, such as those of the femur, especially when immediate surgical intervention is not possible. Skeletal traction stabilizes the fracture, facilitating proper healing and often serving as a temporizing measure before definitive surgical fixation. This study focuses on skeletal traction applied for the reduction of proximal tibia fractures. Studies on this subject are lacking as most established data focuses on its use for shaft femur fractures.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital by a single skilled surgeon team on 30 skeletally mature patients. Skeletal traction was applied for each patient using a Steinmann pin and 15% of the patient body weight over distal 1/3rd tibia shaft immediately post-trauma for 1 week and continued intraoperatively during primary fixation as plating. Pre-operative and post-operative radiographs were taken. Knee range of motion was measured using a goniometer at 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months post-operative. Serial radiographs were taken immediately, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months post-operative.
Conclusion: Skeletal traction applied over the distal 1/3rd shaft tibia shows promising results for comminuted proximal tibia fractures. It reduces fracture fragment displacement commonly occurring during manual traction.
Keywords: Skeletal traction, Proximal tibia, Tibial fractures, Lower extremity trauma.
Surgical Prophylaxis: Is it Always Needed in Orthopaedics Practice
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, New Delhi Pathology Clinic, New Delhi, India., Lalchandani Swati , Yadav Rajesh ,   Department of Orthopaedics, ESIPGIMSR, New Delhi, India., Parmar Rakesh ,   Department of Orthopaedics, ESIPGIMSR, New Delhi, India., Lalchandani Rajesh ,   Department of Orthopaedics, ESIPGIMSR, New Delhi, India., Prakash Shashikant ,   Department of Orthopaedics, ESIPGIMSR, New Delhi, India.
Published: December 2024

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess the need for antibiotic prophylaxis in soft-tissue surgeries of short duration without usage of implant in the field of orthopedics.
Methods: A prospective and comparative randomized study was performed on 100 cases with clean elective surgical procedure of short duration <⅟2 h. Data were analyzed for development of surgical site infection (SSI) in clean elective soft-tissue procedures of short duration.
Results: In our carefully selected cohort of patients of clean soft-tissue surgeries of less than half hour duration without involving the use of implant, two groups were made based on block randomization technique, one of which got a shot of pre-operative antibiotic prophylaxis and other did not. Mean patient age was 36.1 years (04 month-66 years). In both groups at all age levels, no infection was found. In the group which received antibiotic 80.8% were female and 19.2% were male, and in the antibiotic not given group had 61.5% female and 38.5% male. Therefore, it is evident that antibiotics did not provide clinical or statistical protection against SSI in clean elective soft-tissue procedures of short duration.
Conclusion: We suggest stratification of use of antibiotic prophylaxis, that is, antibiotic prophylaxis is required for surgeries of longer duration involving placement of implants but not required in surgeries of short duration which do not involve placement of implants in the field of orthopedics.
Keywords: Surgical Prophylaxis, Surgical site infection, Orthopaedics Practice
MEMS tunable VCSEL with polarization selected by sub-wavelength pitch grating
Authors: Johnson Bart , Melendez Carlos , Bruccoleri Alexander , Whitney Peter
Published: December 2024

A sub-wavelength grating has been added to an optically-pumped MEMS tunable VCSEL structure to control polarization. This "P_VCSEL" is a thermocompression-bonded sandwich of a 1/2-VCSEL with gain and semiconductor DBR attached to a silicon MEMS mirror on an electrostatically actuated membrane for wavelength control. The sub-wavelength pitch grating is etched into the surface of the 1/2-VCSEL. Optical layer stack simulations have accurately predicted the tuning behavior of the P_VCSELs but not the polarization behavior. The polarization selection does not occur through threshold gain asymmetries as originally believed, but rather through polarization-dependent loss in the grating. We believe the rough sidewalls of the grating teeth are responsible for the polarization-dependent loss. While the selected-against polarization loss is very high, the selected-for polarization loss is still higher than desirable. This reduces power output, especially at short wavelength. However, 91 nm tuning in the 1050 nm band was achieved, suitable for application in optical coherence tomography.
Social support and self-efficacy during early adolescence: Dual impact of protective and promotive links to mental health and wellbeing
Authors: Cherewick Megan , Lama Rinzi , Rai Roshan P. , Dukpa Choden , Mukhia Dikcha , Giri Priscilla , Matergia Michael
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to assess the impact of sources of social support and dimensions of self-efficacy on psychological symptoms and mental wellbeing among early adolescents. A total of 274 adolescents aged 10–14 from Darjeeling, India, participated in the study. The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and Self-Efficacy Questionnaire for Children (SEQ-C) were utilized to assess dimensions of protective/promotive factors. Nested multivariable regression models assessed associations between age, gender, social support, and self-efficacy on psychological symptoms (internalising, externalising, and total difficulties) and mental wellbeing outcomes (mental wellbeing, optimism, and resilience). Results indicated that 13% of early adolescents screened positive for clinical depression and 44% reported poor mental wellbeing. Emotional and academic self-efficacy, along with family support, were significantly associated with reduced psychological symptoms. Conversely, social, and academic self-efficacy, along with support from friends, were linked to higher levels of mental wellbeing. Regression analyses revealed that dimensions of social support and self-efficacy explained a greater proportion of variability in mental wellbeing outcomes (R2 = 0.37–0.64) than in psychological symptom outcomes (R2 = 0.19–0.22), suggesting a stronger promotive effect on mental wellbeing compared to a protective effect on psychological symptoms during early adolescence. Findings suggest the urgent need for early mental health intervention to strengthen systems of social support and support self-efficacy among early adolescents. Multi-level or sequential interventions that target protective and promotive factors are a key strategy to addressing the global youth mental health crisis.
Profiling endogenous airway proteases and antiproteases and modeling proteolytic activation of Influenza HA using in vitro and ex vivo human airway surface liquid samples
Authors: Brocke Stephanie A. , Reidel Boris , Ehre Camille , Rebuli Meghan E. , Robinette Carole , Schichlein Kevin D. , Brooks Christian A. , Jaspers Ilona
Published: December 2024

Imbalance of airway proteases and antiproteases has been implicated in diseases such as COPD and environmental exposures including cigarette smoke and ozone. To initiate infection, endogenous proteases are commandeered by respiratory viruses upon encountering the airway epithelium. The airway proteolytic environment likely contains redundant antiproteases and proteases with diverse catalytic mechanisms, however a proteomic profile of these enzymes and inhibitors in airway samples has not been reported. The objective of this study was to first profile extracellular proteases and antiproteases using human airway epithelial cell cultures and ex vivo nasal epithelial lining fluid (NELF) samples. Secondly, we present an optimized method for probing the proteolytic environment of airway surface liquid samples (in vitro and ex vivo) using fluorogenic peptides modeling the cleavage sites of respiratory viruses. We detected 48 proteases in the apical wash of cultured human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) (n = 6) and 57 in NELF (n = 13) samples from healthy human subjects using mass-spectrometry based proteomics. Additionally, we detected 29 and 48 antiproteases in the HNEC apical washes and NELF, respectively. We observed large interindividual variability in rate of cleavage of an Influenza H1 peptide in the ex vivo clinical samples. Since protease and antiprotease levels have been found to be altered in the airways of smokers, we compared proteolytic cleavage in ex vivo nasal lavage samples from male/female smokers and non-smokers. There was a statistically significant increase in proteolysis of Influenza H1 in NLF from male smokers compared to female smokers. Furthermore, we measured cleavage of the S1/S2 site of SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, and SARS-CoV-2 Delta peptides in various airway samples, suggesting the method could be used for other viruses of public health relevance. This assay presents a direct and efficient method of evaluating the proteolytic environment of human airway samples in assessment of therapeutic treatment, exposure, or underlying disease.
Comparison of age-related decline in C57BL/6J and CB6F1J male mice
Authors: Liao Gerald Yu , Pettan-Brewer Christina , Ladiges Warren
Published: December 2024

Variability in physical resilience to aging prompts a comprehensive examination of underlying mechanisms across organs and individuals. We conducted a detailed exploration of behavioral and physiological differences between male C57BL/6J and male CB6F1J mice across various age groups (4, 12, 20, 24 months). In behavioral assays, C57BL/6J mice displayed superior performance in rotarod tasks but higher anxiety while CB6F1J mice exhibited a decline in short-term memory with age. Grip strength, long-term memory, and voluntary wheel running declined similarly with age in both strains. Examining physiological phenotypes, C57BL/6J mice exhibited lower body fat percentages across ages compared to CB6F1J mice, though cataract severity worsened with age in both strains. Analysis of cardiac functions revealed differences between strains, with worsening left ventricular hypertrophy and structural heart abnormalities with age in CB6F1J mice along with higher blood pressure than C57BL/6J. Lesion scores showed an age-related increase in heart, kidney, and liver lesions in both strains, while lung lesions worsened with age only in CB6F1J mice. This study underscores the validity of behavioral assays and geropathology assessment in reflecting age-related decline and emphasizes the importance of considering strain specificity when using mouse models to study human aging.
Effects of brief mindfulness intervention on mental fatigue and recovery in basketball tactical performance
Authors: Cao Shudian , Liu Jia , Geok Soh Kim , Sun He , Wang Xiaopeng
Published: December 2024

Objective

The detrimental effects of mental fatigue (MF) have been established in sports, such as soccer, volleyball, and basketball. Mindfulness interventions are considered a promising method to help players counteract MF, but whether it could improve basketball tactical performance after MF in competition is not clear. This study aims to investigate the effect of brief mindfulness intervention on basketball tactical performance under MF.

Method

This study employed a cluster randomized controlled trial (cRCT) design. It involved 54 male basketball players aged 18 to 24 from three universities. The participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: control group (CG), mental fatigue group (MFG), and mental fatigue-mindfulness group (MF-MG). Players in the MFG and MF-MG underwent a 30-minute Stroop task to induce MF. Subsequently, players in the MF-MG engaged in a 30-minute audio mindfulness intervention. Basketball tactical performance was assessed in the small side games (SSG).

Results

There were no significant differences in total tactics observed across groups and over time. However, when examining specific tactical sub-variables, significant differences were found in ball reversal, dribble penetration into the key area, and off-ball screen between the CG and MFG in the post-test. Furthermore, significant differences were noted in ball reversal, dribble penetration into the key area, on-ball screen, and off-ball screen between the MFG and MF-MG in the post-test.

Conclusion

The basketball tactical performances, particularly in areas such as ball reversal, dribble penetration into the key area, on-ball screen, and off-ball screen, were negatively impacted by MF. Notably, the brief mindfulness intervention effectively restored these performance aspects. This suggests that coaches and trainers should place increased emphasis on players’ mental well-being and consider incorporating brief mindfulness interventions into their training programs. More studies that investigate mindfulness intervention on the comprehensive aspects of basketball performance should be focused on in the future.
The effects of secretome of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells on regeneration of sciatic nerve defects in Sprague dawley rats
Authors: Kurniawan Aryadi , Dilogo Ismail Hadisoebroto , Pawitan Jeanne Adiwinata , Widodo Wahyu , Oesman Ihsan , Martinus Ade
Published: December 2024

Background and purpose

Current treatments for peripheral nerve defects are suboptimal. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) implantation holds promise, with studies indicating their efficacy through the secretome. This study aims to assess the secretome’s potency in regenerating peripheral nerve defects.

Animals and methods

Twenty-eight spraque dawley (SD) rats were divided into four groups, with a 10mm segmental sciatic nerve defect created. Group I received autografts, while Groups II, III, and IV had proximal and distal nerve stumps fixed with a conduit. Group II received MSC implantation, Group III received umbilical cord MSC secretome, and Group IV was treated with silicone conduits. Motoric recovery was assessed using the Sciatic Functional Index (SFI) at 6, 9, and 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, rats were sacrificed for measurements of gastrocnemius muscle weight ratio and sciatic nerve histomorphometry.

Result

The highest ratio of the gastrocnemius muscle were found in groups 1 and 3, namely 0.7 ± 0.06 and 0.7 ± 0.2 (p <0.001). The highest number of myelinated axons was found in group 1 and 3, namely 175.1 ± 15.9 and 168.9 ± 11.7 (p <0.001). The secretome had the similar effectiveness with autograft in promoting regeneration of the sciatic nerve defect.

Interpretation

The secretome of the umbilical cord MSC can be a novel therapy in replacing autografts for the management of peripheral nerve defects.
Network meta-analysis of the efficacy of endoscopic cardia peripheral tissue scar formation (ECSF) in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Shi Chaoyi , Zhou Shunhai , Chen Xuanran , Shen Diyun , Wang Tianyue , ZhuoMa GeSang , Feng Mingzhi , Sun Yan , Zhang Jun
Published: December 2024

Endoscopic antireflux therapy is widely used in clinical practice. Peroral endoscopic cardial constriction (PECC), antireflux mucosal intervention (ARMI), and radiofrequency ablation (RF) possess analogous antireflux mechanisms. This comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate and compare the safety and effectiveness of antireflux therapy during endoscopic cardia peripheral tissue scar formation (ECSF) procedures. We comprehensively searched the Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wan-Fang databases for articles published from January 1990 to January 2024. Network meta-analysis (NMA) was used to assess the outcomes, with outcome metrics including the Gastroesophageal Reflux Questionnaire (GERD-Q) score, proton pump inhibitor discontinuation rate, pH <4.2 percent acid reflux time (AET), lower esophageal pressure (LES pressure), DeMeester score, adverse events, and patient satisfaction. Twenty studies involving 1219 patients were included. PECC was significantly superior to RF in lowering the patients’ postoperative GERD-Q scores(MD = -2.34, 95% confidence interval (CI): [-3.02, -1.66]), augmentation of LES pressures(MD = 3.22, 95% CI: [1.21, 5.23]), and having a lower incidence of serious adverse events. ARMI was preferable to PECC (MD = -2.87, 95% CI [-4.23, -1.51])and RF (MD = -1.12, 95% CI [-1.79, -0.54]) in reducing the AET percentage, but was not as effective as PECC in lowering GERD-Q scores(MD = -1.50, 95% CI [-2.47, -0.53]). The incidence of adverse effects was less than 10% for all interventions, with most of them mildly self-resolving. Each ECSF procedure resulted in a favorable outcome in patients with GERD. Considering the safety and efficacy of treatment, PECC was the most favorable choice among ECSF procedures.
Evaluation of the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on hospital admission related to common infections: Risk prediction models to tackle antimicrobial resistance in primary care
Authors: Fahmi Ali , Palin Victoria , Zhong Xiaomin , Yang Ya-Ting , Watts Simon , Ashcroft Darren M. , Goldacre Ben , MacKenna Brian , Fisher Louis , Massey Jon , Mehrkar Amir , Bacon Seb ,   the OpenSAFELY Collaborative, Hand Kieran , van Staa Tjeerd Pieter
Published: December 2024

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a multifaceted global challenge, partly driven by inappropriate antibiotic prescribing. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on treatment of common infections, develop risk prediction models and examine the effects of antibiotics on infection-related hospital admissions.

Methods

With the approval of NHS England, we accessed electronic health records from The Phoenix Partnership (TPP) through OpenSAFELY platform. We included adult patients with primary care diagnosis of common infections, including lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI), upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), and lower urinary tract infection (UTI), from 1 January 2019 to 31 August 2022. We excluded patients with a COVID-19 record in the 90 days before to 30 days after the infection diagnosis. Risk prediction models using Cox proportional-hazard regression were developed for infection-related hospital admission in the 30 days after the common infection diagnosis.

Results

We found 12,745,165 infection diagnoses from 1 January 2019 to 31 August 2022. Of them, 80,395 (2.05%) cases were admitted to the hospital during follow-up. Counts of hospital admission for infections dropped during COVID-19, for example LRTI from 3,950 in December 2019 to 520 in April 2020. Comparing those prescribed an antibiotic to those without, reduction in risk of hospital admission were largest with LRTI (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of 0.35; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.35–0.36) and UTI (aHR 0.45; 95% CI, 0.44–0.46), compared to URTI (aHR 1.04; 95% CI, 1.03–1.06).

Conclusions

A substantial variation in hospital admission risks between infections and patient groups was found. Antibiotics appeared more effective in preventing infection-related complications with LRTI and UTI, but not URTI. While this study has several limitations, the results indicate that a focus on risk-based antibiotic prescribing could help tackle AMR in primary care.
Generating viewsheds based on the Digital Surface Model (DSM) and point cloud
Authors: Orlof Jerzy , Ozimek Paweł , Łabędź Piotr , Widłak Adrian , Ozimek Agnieszka
Published: December 2024

Visual analysis has applications in diverse fields, including urban planning and environmental management. This study explores viewshed generation using two distinct datasets: Digital Surface Model (DSM) and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) point cloud data. We assess the differences in viewsheds derived from these sources, evaluating their respective strengths and weaknesses. The DSM accurately captures terrain features and elevation changes, offering a comprehensive view of the land surface. Conversely, LiDAR point cloud data delivers detailed three-dimensional information, enabling precise mapping of terrain features and object detection. Our comparative analysis based on six selected locations with varied topographical arrangements considers factors such as visual acuity and computational efficiency. Additionally, we discuss the application of DSM and LiDAR point cloud data in view analysis, emphasizing their value in line-of-sight assessments and field operations. The results indicate greater precision of viewsheds created based on LiDAR point clouds. The analysis reveals that the greater precision in comparing differences between DSM and point LiDAR data ranges from 1.42% to 5.94%, while the results subtraction falls between 1.05% and 3.89% for the conditions analyzed, indicating a high degree of accuracy in the method. However, this process demands significant computational resources. It is best applied in limited areas, particularly in urban environments where such data is crucial for supporting research decisions.
Evidence-based policy-making in sports funding using a data-driven optimization approach
Authors: Hurt Jan , Yang Liuhuaying , Sorger Johannes , Lampoltshammer Thomas J. , Pulda Nike , Rosenbichler Ursula , Thurner Stefan , Klimek Peter
Published: December 2024

Regular physical activity is essential for the healthy development of children, and sports clubs are one of the main drivers of regular exercise. Previous studies have demonstrated that public subsidies can increase participation rates in sports clubs. The effectiveness of funding in increasing participation rates depends on multiple factors, such as geographic location, the size of the sports club, and the socio-economic conditions of the population. Here, we show how an optimal allocation of government funds to sports facilitators (e.g., sports clubs) can be achieved using a data-driven simulation model that maximizes children’s access to sports facilities. We compile a dataset for all 1,854 football clubs in Austria, including estimates for their budgets, geolocations, tallies, and the age profiles of their members. We find a characteristic sublinear relationship between the number of active club members and the budget, which depends on the socio-economic conditions of the club’s municipality. In the model, where we assume this relationship to be causal, we evaluate different funding strategies. We show that an optimization strategy, where funds are distributed based on regional socio-economic characteristics and club budgets, outperforms a naive approach by up to 117% in attracting children to sports clubs with 5 million euros of additional funding. Our results suggest that the impact of public funding strategies can be substantially increased by tailoring them to regional socio-economic characteristics in an evidence-based and individualized way.
“Energetics of the outer retina I: Estimates of nutrient exchange and ATP generation”
Authors: Prins Stella , Kiel Christina , Foss Alexander J. E. , Zouache Moussa A. , Luthert Philip J.
Published: December 2024

Photoreceptors (PRs) are metabolically demanding and packed at high density, which presents a challenge for nutrient exchange between the associated vascular beds and the tissue. Motivated by the ambition to understand the constraints under which PRs function, in this study we have drawn together diverse physiological and anatomical data in order to generate estimates of the rates of ATP production per mm2 of retinal surface area. With the predictions of metabolic demand in the companion paper, we seek to develop an integrated energy budget for the outer retina. It is known that rod PR number and the extent of the choriocapillaris (CC) vascular network that supports PRs both decline with age. To set the outer retina energy budget in the context of aging we demonstrate how, at different eccentricities, decline CC density is more than matched by rod loss in a way that tends to preserve nutrient exchange per rod. Together these finds provide an integrated framework for the study of outer retinal metabolism and how it might change with age.
Dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering measurements on microtubules at low concentrations
Authors: George Annitta , Alva Ernesto , Brancaleon Lorenzo , Marucho Marcelo
Published: December 2024

The accurate characterization of microtubules is essential for understanding their roles in various biological activities in eukaryotic cellular processes. In vitro, experimental data on these systems often need more details and information on sample preparation protocols and experimental techniques. This deficiency leads to unreproducible or contradictory outcomes. The use of diverse experimental methods and preparations yields different results of hydrodynamic and electro-mechanical properties, complicating the process of obtaining meaningful data and conclusive information. This article presents a robust and detailed protocol for performing dynamic light scattering (DLS) and electrophoretic light scattering (ELS) measurements on microtubules at low concentrations. This method ensures accurate and reproducible results on essential microtubule filament parameters such as the diffusion coefficient (D) and electrophoretic mobility (μ) from which other structures’ hydrodynamics, electrical, and stability properties can be elucidated.
Primary healthcare provider-perceived barriers to implementing an evidence-based pathway for undifferentiated lower gastrointestinal tract symptoms: A qualitative inquiry
Authors: Sharma Sowmya , Stewart Michael J. , Mathias Holly , Novak Kerri , Veldhuyzen Van Zanten Sander , Heisler Courtney , Richard Sharon , Neil Emily , Burge Frederick , Smith Aaron , Peltekian Kevork , Patel Sunil , Jones Jennifer L.
Published: December 2024

Background

Primary healthcare providers play a critical role in diagnosing and managing digestive disorders. Standardized clinical care guidelines have been developed, but with limited and inconsistent implementation. An evidence-based gastroenterology clinical care pathway (GUTLINK) has been proposed in one region of Canada; however, little is known in the medical literature about potential barriers to pathway implementation within primary care. We aimed to identify behavioral and environmental barriers and facilitators to implementation of evidence-based care pathways for undifferentiated lower gastrointestinal tract symptoms in primary care.

Methods

One-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with primary healthcare providers between September 2021 and May 2022. Interview script development was guided by the COM-B framework. Interviews were transcribed and data were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis approach.

Results

A total of 15 primary healthcare provider interviews were conducted. Several key barriers to GUTLINK implementation were identified in all three domains of the COM-B framework. Key barriers included Capability (e.g., Physician Knowledge and Access to Allied Health), Opportunity (e.g., Access to diagnostic tools), and Motivation (e.g., Comfort with managing cases and optimism). Some of these barriers have not previously been identified in medical literature.

Conclusions

Evidence-based clinical care pathways have the potential to support access to quality gastroenterology care, yet primary healthcare providers in this study identified several barriers to implementation. Potential solutions exist at the individual and clinic levels (e.g., greater education, improved provider-specialist communication), but must be supported with systems-level changes (e.g., increased funding for gastrointestinal care and e-Health platforms) to support pathway implementation and improve quality of care.
Relative abrasive potential of silica-based conventional and tablet dentifrices on enamel and dentin
Authors: Kasi Shaira R. , Pilecco Rafaela Oliveira , Saldanha da Rosa Lucas , Tribst João Paulo Mendes , Kleverlaan Cornelis Johannes , Özcan Mutlu , Feilzer Albert J.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This in vitro study aimed to investigate the toothbrushing wear on both enamel and dentin surfaces of reference and commercially available dentifrices.

Methods

Bovine enamel and dentin blocks were initially polished and embedded within a resin composite in square shapes (10×8×6 mm3). Employing toothbrushes equipped with nylon bristles, a toothbrushing machine was utilized, subjecting dentin specimens (n = 36) to 500 brush cycles and enamel samples to 5000 brush cycles (n = 36). Before and after the brushing simulation (2.45-N, 180 strokes per minute), an advanced contact profilometer was employed to measure the abraded depth. The wear rates were analyzed by using One-way ANOVA with two-sided Dunnett’s multiple comparisons with a control (water).

Results

Significant variations were observed among the tested toothpaste formulations, particularly in dentin wear, where Sident and Prodent showed notably higher values (7.30 μm and 9.67 μm, respectively) compared to the water control group (0.79 μm). Prodent also induced the highest enamel wear (2.64 μm) among the toothpaste formulations, while water, Zendium, and Denttabs exhibited comparatively lower enamel wear values. Statistical analysis using One-way ANOVA with two-sided Dunnett’s multiple comparisons against the control (water) confirmed these differences.

Significance

Toothbrushing with water causes minimal wear on enamel and dentin tissues, suggesting the predominant effect of three-body wear when using an abrasive medium. Comparing the standard references for dentifrice abrasives, Sident and Sylodent exhibit similar wear rates, making them reliable choices for in-vitro tests. When employed in a similar frequency, the wear rate of commercial toothpaste depends more on its composition than its form (paste or tablets).
Putting performance bias to the front-lower side of the hole on steep slopes: Differences in strategies and movements between professional and amateur golfers
Authors: Hasegawa Yumiko , Okada Ayako , Fujii Keisuke
Published: December 2024

When playing on an sloped golf course, the ball often misses the hole to the front-lower side, which is also referred to as the “amateur side.” This can be attributed to the difficulty in perceiving the green slope and choosing the appropriate launch direction and ball speed, especially for amateurs. The study had three main objectives. The first was to examine whether a front-down bias toward the hole could be experimentally observed in golfers’ putting. Second, to measure golfers’ aims and movements to determine why golfers, especially amateurs, putt poorly on steep slopes. Third, to investigate using a miniature platform how golfers recognized the steepness of the slopes and the relationship between their aim and their slope recognition. Twelve professionals and twelve intermediate amateurs were asked to perform in the 1- and 3-degree conditions (left-to-right line) at a distance of 3 m from the hole. Participants wore shutter goggles to inhibit visual feedback of outcomes. The aim, address, ball launch direction (analyzed as angles), and kinematics of the putter head and ball were measured. The results of this study experimentally confirmed the amateur side and indicated that the aim, address, and launch directions of the amateurs were smaller than those of the professionals. As for reproducing the slope task, we found that the amateurs underestimated the steepness on both conditions when compared to professionals. Additionally, golfers’ aim and slope recognition were weakly correlated. These suggest that amateurs, compared to professionals, were unable to choose the optimal speed of the putter head and the launch direction of the ball in relation to the slope. Furthermore, amateurs’ recognition was worse than that of professionals, which may affect their aim.
Facilitators and barriers for the implementation of a transmural fall-prevention care pathway for older adults in the emergency department
Authors: Charmant W. M. , Snoeker B. A. M. , van Hout H. P. J. , Nauta I. N. , Boonstra F. , Geleijn E. , Veenhof C. , Nanayakkara P. W. B.
Published: December 2024

Background

Older adults at the emergency department (ED) with fall-related injuries are at risk of repeated falls. National guidelines state that the ED is responsible for initiating fall preventive care. A transmural fall-prevention care pathway (TFCP) at the ED can guide patients to tailored interventions. In this study, we investigated the facilitators and barriers for the implementation of the TFCP for older adults following a fall-related ED visit from the perspectives of patients and healthcare professionals.

Methods

In this qualitative study, we used semi-structured interviews with ten older adults who had a recent ED visit due to a fall. Furthermore, we organised focus groups with 13 healthcare professionals involved in TFCP. Two researchers independently coded the transcripts using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

We revealed facilitators and barriers on three key themes: 1) Communication, 2) organisation & execution, and 3) personal factors, and thereunder 12 subthemes. Our specific finding were 1a) communication between healthcare professionals and patients, 1b) interprofessional communication and 1c) communication between patients and their family or friends can have both positive and negative impact on the implementation of a TFCP. For the organisation & execution, facilitators and barriers were mentioned for 2a) processes at the ED, 2b) the fall risk assessment, 2c) patient engagement, 2d) finances, 2e) time, and 2f) responsibilities. Personal factors such as 3a) emotions and behaviour, 3b) knowledge, and 3c) motivation play a crucial role in the success of patient participation. The competence of healthcare professionals in geriatric care facilitate the process of tailoring of care to patients’ needs.

Conclusion

When implementing a TFCP, it is crucial to be aware that facilitators and barriers from the perspective of patients and healthcare professionals exist in the processes of communication, organisation & execution, and personal factors. These factors guide the development of tailored implementation strategies in ED and primary care settings.
Performance and quality of eggs of laying hens fed with Moringa Oleifera leaf flour
Authors: da Silva Junior Rogério Ventura , Rabello Carlos Bôa-Viagem , Ludke Maria do Carmo Mohaupt Marques , Lopes Cláudia da Costa , de Medeiros Ventura Waleska Rocha Leite , Soares Elayne de Souza Rocha , Guedes Paiva Patricia Maria , Napoleão Thiago Henrique , Ribeiro Apolonio Gomes , Nascimento Júlio Cézar dos Santos , Souza Lilian Francisco Arantes de , Oliveira Helia Sharlane de Holanda
Published: December 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of commercial laying hens fed with different levels of Moringa oleifera leaf meal in their diet. For this purpose, 150 laying hens of the Dekalb White lineage, at 62 weeks of age, and with an initial average weight of 1.458 kg ± 8.70g, were used. They were housed in cages measuring 1.00 X 0.40 X 0.45m, equipped with chute-type feeders, automatic cup-type drinkers and chute for collecting eggs. They were distributed in a completely randomized design, consisting of five treatments with five replications of six birds. The treatments consisted of a reference diet, without moringa inclusion, and four test diets with levels of 1.5%, 3.0%, 4.5% and 6% inclusion of moringa leaf meal. Water was provided ad libitum, and 120 g of feed per bird per day. The total experimental period lasted 122 days. The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance and Dunnett’s test at 5% significance and, when significant, subjected to regression analysis. Analysis of the leaf flour revealed the presence of antinutritional factors in small concentrations. It was observed that the addition of moringa to the birds’ diet did not influence performance parameters and provided significant increases in the average egg weight according to moringa inclusion levels of 1.5%, 4.5% and 6% when compared to the control diet, as well as a significant increase in the color of the egg yolks for all levels tested (1.5 to 6%). A reduction in Haugh unit values was observed when inclusion levels of moringa were 4.5% and 6%. Despite a reduction in Haugh unit values, they are still within the classification standards. Analysis of the biochemical parameters of the birds’ blood serum did not show significant influences according to the levels of moringa inclusion in the diet, although a numerical reduction was observed in the cholesterol levels of birds fed with an inclusion of 6% of leaf flour in the diet, which could possibly be related to the presence of phytochemical compounds, more precisely β-sitosterol. Moringa oleifera leaf meal can be used to feed laying birds without causing harm to the birds’ performance, in addition to intensifying the color of the yolks.
Different pixel sizes of topographic data for prediction of soil salinity
Authors: Esmailpour Shima , Mahmoudabadi Ebrahim , Ganjehie Mohammad Ghasemzadeh , Karimi Alireza
Published: December 2024

Modeling techniques can be powerful predictors of soil salinity across various scales, ranging from local landscapes to global territories. This study was aimed to examine the accuracy of soil salinity prediction model integrating ANNs (artificial neural networks) and topographic factors with different cell sizes. For this purpose, soil salinity was determined at 103 points in the east of Mashhad, Razavi Khorasan, Iran. The region was categorized into two distinct parts: study area (1) (with a steep topography) and study area (2) (with a flat topography). To explore the impact of terrain on salinity prediction accuracy, ANNs were trained using topographical factors as inputs across a range of cell sizes (30, 50, 90, 200, and 500 m). The model’s effectiveness was evaluated based on their Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and coefficient of determination (R2). Results indicated variability in model performance, with RMSE ranging from 0.324 to 0.461 and R2 from 0.159 to 0.281 across the spectrum of cell sizes. Deeper analysis on different topographical influences showed that for the study area (1), a cell size of 30 m yielded the most accurate predictions (RMSE = 0.234 dS/m and R2 = 0.515), whereas for the study area (2), a cell size of 50 m was optimal (RMSE = 0.658 dS/m and R2 = 0.597). In general, the findings concluded that smaller cell sizes can enhance prediction accuracy in areas with complex and varied topography, while larger cell sizes can be more effective in flat areas. This study demonstrates the significance of incorporating terrain attributes and their optimal resolutions for accurate soil salinity prediction. Our findings underscore the importance of tailoring the resolution of input data to match the specific topographic features of the area, challenging the conventional notion that higher input resolution invariably yields better results in soil properties prediction. These insights provide valuable guidance for effective soil management and agricultural practices, as well as contribute to more informed decision-making in land management and environmental conservation.
Innovation or acquisition? Emissions mitigation strategies and the role of renewable technologies
Authors: Moqadassi Zahra , Miremadi Iman , Khajehpour Hossein
Published: December 2024

One of the actions taken to mitigate the climate change is research, development and demonstration (RD&D) investments in renewable energy (RE) technology. In addition to domestic RD&D spending, the import of foreign technologies, as a main channel of technology transfer, is another option to obtain higher share of renewable energies in order to achieve climate objectives. In this study, a panel dataset of 28 OECD member countries from 2011 to 2020 is analyzed, using the OLS, fixed-effects, and two-step system GMM methods, to assess the impacts of public spending on renewable energy RD&D (RERD) and the import of renewable energy technologies on the energy-related CO2 emissions. To fully capture the significant regional differences, the 28 countries are re-divided into four regions in accordance with their renewable energy RD&D investment level and total CO2 emissions. This study uniquely investigates the impact of RERD and importation–as an alternative channel for obtaining renewable energy technologies–on energy-related CO2 emissions in OECD countries, while also analyzing regional differences to inform targeted local policies. The findings reveal that CO2 emission is significantly and negatively affected by renewable energy imports, for the full panel as well as for Low-RERD and Low-Emission regions. Furthermore, only in High-RERD and High-Emission regions can renewable energy RD&D decrease CO2 emissions. Accordingly, some policy implications are recommended concerning investments in renewable energy RD&D and renewables import.
Shared genetic factors and the interactions with fresh fruit intake contributes to four types squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Mo Mengqing , Hou Can , Yuan Huangbo , Zhao Renjia , Chen Mingyang , Jiang Yanfeng , Xu Kelin , Zhang Tiejun , Chen Xingdong , Suo Chen
Published: December 2024

Studies have reported risk factors for a single-squamous cell carcinoma(Single-SCCs). However, the shared common germline genetic factors and environmental factors have not been well elucidated with respect to augmented risk of pan-squamous cell carcinoma(Pan-SCCs). By integrating a large-scale genotype data of 1,928 Pan-SCCs cases and 7,712 age- and sex-matched controls in the UK Biobank cohort, as well as multiple transcriptome and protein databases, we conducted a multi-omics analysis. Genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) was used to identify genetic susceptibility loci of SCCs. High resolution human leucocyte antigen (HLA) alleles and corresponding amino acid sequences were imputed using SNP2HLA and tested for association with SCCs. Credible risk variants (CRVs) were combined risk SNPs reported in GWAS Catalog and our study, followed by comprehensive bioinformatics analyses. We identified six novel index SNPs in the progression of SCCs, which were also strongly interacted with fresh fruit intake. Moreover, our study systematically characterize the HLA variants and their relationship to SCCs susceptibility. We identified HLA-A*01 and six HLA-A amino acid position were associated independently with SCCs. Credible risk variants were annotated to 469 target genes, further GO and KEGG Pathway Enrichment Analysis showed that SCCs genes were primarily involved in immune-related pathways, espechially regulated by HLA region. The transcriptome analysis showed that there were 270 differentially expressed genes(DEGs), with the upregulated genes were enriched in the regulation of stem cell differentiation, proliferation, development, and maintenance. The PPI Network and Modular Analysis uncovered the Keratin(KRT) genes may serve as a potential marker in SCCs. Our results illustrate the molecular basis of both well-studied and new susceptibility loci of SCCs, providing not only novel insights into the genetic commonality among SCCs but also a set of plausible gene targets for post-GWAS functional experiments.