bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An evaluation of masking nuisance odors from a source by chemical and sensory analyses
Authors: Suffet Irwin H. , Decottignies Virginie , Zhou Yubin , Bian Yuge , Vitko Tadeo G.
Published: June 2023

There are many products in the market advertised as masking agents used to overpower strong nuisance odors, such as in or around water resource recovery facilities, solid waste processing facilities, landfills, composting sites, and so forth. Very little is known about the chemical component of these masking agents because they are protected by trade secrets. This is a problem for the parties involved, as the process of choosing the most adequate agent for the particular odor source falls into guesswork. This paper demonstrates that it is possible to determine how effective the masking product would be before spending time and resources in trials. It proposes to show this by comparing the Weber–Fechner curves of the odor‐causing compounds known to be emitted at the facility with the curves from the potential masking agents prepared in the laboratory using an olfactometer. Several sensorial examples show that when the Weber–Fechner curves of the odorants and those of candidate masking agents are compared, it is possible to define the effectiveness of the masking agent tested. This is a novel use of the Weber–Fechner curves. The results show there is direct correlation between what is observed by a panel with real life odor samples subjected to incremental dilution and the Weber–Fechner odor intensity‐odor concentration curve interaction between the odorants involved. Future work characterizing additional potential masking compounds by Weber–Fechner accompanied by odor profiling with dynamic olfactometry should shed light on the definitive effectiveness of this method in predicting masking effects and discovering useful masking compounds.

Practitioner Points

Weber–Fechner curves provide relationships between odorant concentration and odor intensity.

Dynamic olfactometry, in which real‐life air samples are sensorially analyzed by the odor profile method after subsequent dilutions, shows that odor masking occurs.

Analyzing the Weber–Fechner curves of the odorants present in the dynamic olfactometry test show the existing odorant interactions.

It is possible to predict the extent of the masking of potential compounds by comparing Weber–Fechner curves of masking agents against odorants causing nuisance.

This methodology could help avoid spending resources in masking field trials that may result in further exacerbating the affected public.
Magnetite‐based Janus nanoparticles, their synthesis and biomedical applications
Authors: Madadi Mozhdeh , Khoee Sepideh
Published: June 2023

The advent of Janus nanoparticles has been a great breakthrough in the emerging field of nanomaterials. Janus nanoparticles refer to a single structure with two distinct chemical functions on either side. Owing to their asymmetric structures, they can be utilized in a variety of applications where monomorphic particles are insufficient. In the last decade, a wide variety of materials have been employed to fabricate Janus nanoparticles, and due to the great advantages of magnetite (Iron‐oxide) NPs, they have been considered as one of the best candidates. With the main benefit of magnetic controlling, magnetite Janus nanoparticles fulfill great promises, especially in biomedical areas such as bioimaging, cancer therapies, theranostics, and biosensing. The intrinsic characteristics of magnetite Janus nanoparticles (MJNPs) even hold great potential in magnetite Janus forms of micro‐/nanomotors. Despite the great interest and potential in magnetic Janus NPs, the need for a comprehensive review on MJNPs with a concentration on magnetite NPs has been overlooked. Herein, we present recent advancements in the magnetite‐based Janus nanoparticles in the flourishing field of biomedicine. First, the synthesis and fabrication methods of Janus nanoparticles are discussed. Then we will delve into their intriguing biomedical applications, with a separate section for magnetite Janus micro‐/nanomotors in biomedicine. And finally, the challenges and future outlook are provided.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology

Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices

Diagnostic Tools > In Vitro Nanoparticle‐Based Sensing
Efforts to ban lead ammunition: a comparison between Europe and the United States
Authors: Ellis Matthew B. , Miller Craig A.
Published: June 2023

The human health impacts of lead have been known for millennia but the environmental impacts of lead ammunition have only received attention during the past 100 years. To a large extent the United States provided leadership in identifying and researching these effects and then spearheading campaigns to transition away from lead shotgun ammunition for waterfowl hunting. However, the appetite for further federal transition has largely stalled in the U.S. except for apparently limited action linked to individual states, charismatic species, and specific sites. Europe, on the other hand, though generally rather late to the table with regard to lead shotgun ammunition and waterfowl hunting, is now pushing ahead with several initiatives that are likely to see substantial partial, if not total, restrictions on the use of all lead ammunition (for shotguns and rifles) within 5 to 10 years. We discuss the policy drivers behind these moves, summarize the key attitudes and perceived constraints to transition, and provide (cautious) timetables and limited recommendations for future changes. Our discussion will include comparisons between efforts in the U.S. and those in Europe.
Wie gut sind 85 Prozent? Über die Analogisierung der Digitalisierung
Authors: Locher Maximilian
Published: June 2023

Durch die numerische Codierung von Prozessen der Organisation im Zuge der Digitalisierung werden relevante Umwelten der Organisation auf neue Art und Weise transparent gemacht. Numerische Daten erzeugen den Eindruck der Eindeutigkeit. Wie man jedoch weiß, verdanken sich auch Daten Entscheidungen, die so oder anders getroffen werden können. Außerdem bedarf jede Form der Digitalisierung einer anschließenden Analogisierung, um für das Entscheiden der Organisation relevant zu werden. Daten machen Interpretation nicht überflüssig, sondern notwendig.
Plädoyer für die Unterscheidung von Systemreferenzen
Authors: Baecker Dirk
Published: June 2023

Digitalisierung ist Arbeit an Schnittstellen zwischen betrieblichen, technischen und menschlichen Prozessen. Schnittstellen haben jeweils eine Oberfläche und eine Unterfläche. Der Beitrag zeigt, wie dieser Ausgangspunkt genutzt werden kann, um mithilfe der Unterscheidung von Systemreferenzen einzelne Schnittstellen genauer zu untersuchen und zu gestalten. Menschliche Prozesse müssen ihrerseits in Fragen der Wahrnehmung durch den Organismus (Auge, Ohr, Tastsinn), des Verstehens durch das Bewusstsein und der Kommunikation innerhalb der Organisation unterschieden werden.
Und die Form ist das Entscheidende: Ein Blick zurück in die Zukunft der digitalisierten mittelständischen Produktion
Authors: Meinhardt Carsten , Thomas Martina , Elsholz Uwe
Published: June 2023

Im Gespräch mit dem Produktionsleiter der nass magnet GmbH werden Erfahrungen aus früheren Phasen der Automatisierung und die gegenwärtigen Auswirkungen der Digitalisierung auf die Arbeit in der Produktion gegenüber gestellt sowie ein Ausblick in die nahe Zukunft gewagt. Dabei geht es insbesondere um die Bedeutung von Standards, aber auch um Veränderungen hinsichtlich der Arbeitsgestaltung und der Bedeutung von Erfahrungswissen.
A large twist limit for any operator
Authors: Ferrando Gwenaël , Sever Amit , Sharon Adar , Urisman Elior
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We argue that for any single-trace operator in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM theory there is a large twist double-scaling limit in which the Feynman graphs have an iterative structure. Such structure can be recast using a graph-building operator. Generically, this operator mixes between single trace operators with different scaling limits. The mixing captures both the finite coupling spectrum and corrections away from the large twist limit. We first consider a class of short operators with gluons and fermions for which such mixing problems do not arise, and derive their finite coupling spectra. We then focus on a class of long operators with gluons that do mix. We invert their graph-building operator and prove its integrability. The picture that emerges from this work opens the door to a systematic expansion of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM theory around the large twist limit.
Finite energy sum rules for gravitational Regge amplitudes
Authors: Noumi Toshifumi , Tokuda Junsei
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We develop a framework to derive consistency constraints on gravitational Regge amplitudes based on the finite energy sum rules (FESRs), which directly connect gravitational Regge amplitudes at a finite ultraviolet scale with infrared physics without suffering from super-Planckian physics. For illustration, we consider four-point scattering of an identical massless scalar coupled to gravity. First, we derive multiple FESRs without relying on the s-t-u permutation invariance. We then make use of FESRs, crossing symmetry, and other principles such as unitarity, to derive bounds on the Regge parameters. The bounds result in infrared finite gravitational positivity bounds in four spacetime dimensions.
Health trajectories of individuals who quit active religious attendance: analysis of four prospective cohort studies in the United States
Authors: Jokela Markus , Laakasuo Michael
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To examine whether trajectories of health (depressive symptoms, psychological wellbeing, self-rated health, and body mass index) and health behaviors (smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and cannabis use) changed for individuals who first reported at least monthly religious attendance and then in subsequent study waves reported no active religious attendance.

Methods

Data were from four cohort studies from the United States collected between 1996 and 2018: National Longitudinal Survey of 1997 (NLSY1997); National Longitudinal Survey of Young Adults (NLSY-YA); Transition to Adulthood Supplement of the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID-TA); and Health and Retirement Study (HRS) with a total n = 6592 individuals and 37,743 person-observations.

Results

None of the 10-year trajectories of health or health behaviors changed for the worse after the change from active to inactive religious attendance. Instead, the adverse trends were observed already during the time of active religious attendance.

Conclusion

These results suggest that religious disengagement is a correlate—not a cause—of a life course characterized by poorer health and health behaviors. The religious decline caused by people leaving their religion is unlikely to influence population health.
Using Confocal Microscopy and Pigment Analyses to Detect Adverse Insecticide Effects in non-target Freshwater Diatom species - a proof-of-concept Using Nitzschia palea
Authors: Kock Anrich , Pheiffer Wihan , Wepener Victor , Smit Nico J. , Taylor Jonathan C.
Published: June 2023

The persistence of insecticides in aquatic environments is a cause of concern and to date hardly any studies have focused on the effects that DDT and deltamethrin have on non-target freshwater diatom communities. The application of diatoms in ecotoxicological studies is well acknowledged and therefore this study used laboratory bioassays to determine the effects that DDT and deltamethrin have on a monoculture of a diatom indicator species, Nitzschia palea. The insecticides affected the morphology of chloroplasts at all exposure concentrations. These effects were a maximum reduction in chlorophyll concentrations (4.8% and 2.3%), cell viability (51% and 42%), and increases in cell deformities (3.6% and 1.6%) following exposure to DDT and deltamethrin respectively. Based on the results we propose that methods, such as confocal microscopy, chlorophyll-α analysis and cell deformities are useful tools in assessing the effects of insecticides on diatoms.
Sample preparation of free sterols from vegetable oils by countercurrent chromatography in co-current mode
Authors: Rüttler Felix , Ormos Rosalie , Cannas Jil , Hammerschick Tim , Schlag Sarah , Vetter Walter
Published: June 2023

Countercurrent chromatography (CCC) is a preparative instrumental method where both the mobile and stationary phases are liquids and which are predominantly used for the isolation of natural products. In this study, we widened the scope of CCC by using it as an instrumental method for the direct enrichment of the free sterol fraction from plant oils to which they contribute with ~ 1%. For the enrichment of sterols in a narrow band, we employed the so-called co-current CCC (ccCCC) mode in which both liquid phases of the solvent system (here: n-hexane/ethanol/methanol/water (34:11:12:2, v/v/v/v)) are moved at different flow rates in the same direction. Different from previous applications of ccCCC, the lower and predominant “stationary” phase (LPs) was pumped twice as fast as the mobile upper phase (UPm). This novel reversed ccCCC mode improved the performance but also required a higher demand of LPs compared to UPm. Therefore, the exact phase composition of UPm and LPs was determined by gas chromatography and Karl Fischer titration. This step enabled the direct preparation of LPs which considerably reduced the waste of solvents. Internal standards (phenyl-substituted fatty acid alkyl esters) were synthesised and utilised to frame the free sterol fraction. This approach allowed a fractionation of free sterols based on the UV signal and compensated run-to-run variations. The reversed ccCCC method was then applied to the sample preparation of five vegetable oils. In addition to free sterols, free tocochromanols (tocopherols, vitamin E) were also eluted in the same fraction as free sterols.

Graphical Abstract
Translational assessment of a DATA-functionalized FAP inhibitor with facile 68Ga-labeling at room temperature
Authors: Escudero-Castellanos Alondra , Kurth Jens , Imlimthan Surachet , Menéndez Elena , Pilatis Eirinaios , Moon Euy Sung , Läppchen Tilman , Rathke Hendrik , Schwarzenböck Sarah M. , Krause Bernd J. , Rösch Frank , Rominger Axel , Gourni Eleni
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The present study aims at evaluating the preclinical and the clinical performance of [68Ga]Ga-DATA5m.SA.FAPi, which has the advantage to be labeled with gallium-68 at room temperature.

Methods

[68Ga]Ga-DATA5m.SA.FAPi was assessed in vitro on FAP-expressing stromal cells, followed by biodistribution and in vivo imaging on prostate and glioblastoma xenografts. Moreover, the clinical assessment of [68Ga]Ga-DATA5m.SA.FAPi was conducted on six patients with prostate cancer, aiming on investigating, biodistribution, biokinetics, and determining tumor uptake.

Results

[68Ga]Ga-DATA5m.SA.FAPi is quantitatively prepared in an instant kit-type version at room temperature. It demonstrated high stability in human serum, affinity for FAP in the low nanomolar range, and high internalization rate when associated with CAFs. Biodistribution and PET studies in prostate and glioblastoma xenografts revealed high and specific tumor uptake. Elimination of the radiotracer mainly occurred through the urinary tract. The clinical data are in accordance with the preclinical data concerning the organ receiving the highest absorbed dose (urinary bladder wall, heart wall, spleen, and kidneys). Different to the small-animal data, uptake of [68Ga]Ga-DATA5m.SA.FAPi in tumor lesions is rapid and stable and tumor-to-organ and tumor-to-blood uptake ratios are high.

Conclusion

The radiochemical, preclinical, and clinical data obtained in this study strongly support further development of [68Ga]Ga-DATA5m.SA.FAPi as a diagnostic tool for FAP imaging.
Winter food selection and exploratory behavior vary with natal territory characteristics in wild great tits
Authors: Serrano-Davies Eva , Bircher Nina , Sepers Bernice , van Oers Kees
Published: June 2023

Differences in habitat characteristics experienced during rearing associate with variation in a range of behavioral phenotypes such as exploratory behavior, foraging behavior and food selection. The habitat-dependent selection hypothesis predicts that animals develop behavioral characteristics fitted to their rearing environment. Yet, little is known about how habitat characteristics during rearing shape how animals face winter conditions and adjust their winter foraging behavior. The aim of this study was to explore how fine-scale rearing habitat characteristics associate with exploratory behavior, food selection, and foraging performance during winter. For this, we measured habitat characteristics during the breeding season in territories of wild great tits (Parus major) and tested first-year juvenile birds that fledged from these territories for exploratory and foraging behavior at feeders during winter. We found evidence that faster explorers were raised in territories with lower quality habitat characteristics. In addition, fast exploring fledglings visited the feeders significantly more (total visits). Moreover, the rearing environment, via caterpillar availability and tree species composition, determined diet selection during winter in first-year birds. These results show support for the habitat-dependent selection hypothesis, since exploratory behavior as well as food selection during winter associate with habitat features of the rearing territories during development. This pattern can be caused either by the kinds of natural foods prevalent during rearing at these sites or because of intrinsic individual differences. Further experiments are needed to disentangle these two.

Significance statement

Individuals vary in how they behaviorally adapt foraging and food selection strategies to the environmental conditions. A number of studies have shown that animals develop behavioral characteristics fitted to their rearing environment. However, how habitat characteristics during rearing shape the foraging strategy that animals use to face winter conditions is still unknown. We studied these links in yearling great tits using automated feeders that recorded their visits during winter. Fledglings with a higher exploratory score were born in territories with lower quality habitat characteristics and visited the feeders more. Furthermore, we found an association between caterpillar availability and tree species composition in the rearing territory of juveniles and their subsequent food selection in winter. Our study indicates that certain environmental conditions might favor the development of particular behaviors in birds and that early nutrition could shape food choice later in life.
The Impact of Global Collaboration on the Academic Focus of the West African College of Surgeons: Are Worldwide Efforts Aligning with Local Priorities?
Authors: Hoffman Gary S. , Parvin‐Nejad Fatemeh P. , Linz Matthew S. , Salter S. Elina , Goydos Christopher , Padmanaban Vennila , Nwomeh Benedict C. , Mshelbwala Philip M. , Sifri Ziad C.
Published: June 2023

Background

Global collaboration has the potential to induce a shift in research focus away from the priorities of those in low‐ and low‐middle‐income countries (LICs and LMICs). This study quantified international collaboration among surgery publications by Fellows of the West African College of Surgeons (WACS) and investigated if collaboration with upper‐middle‐income and high‐income countries (UMICs and HICs) decreases the homophily of research focus.

Methods

Publications by WACS surgery Fellows from 1960 to 2019 were characterized as local WACS publications, collaborative publications without UMIC/HIC participation, or collaborative publications with UMIC/HIC participation. Research topics were determined for each publication, and topic percentages were compared between collaboration groups.

Results

We analyzed 5065 publications. Most (3690 publications, 73%) were local WACS publications, while 742 (15%) were collaborative publications with UMIC/HIC participation and 633 (12%) were collaborative publications without UMIC/HIC participation. UMIC/HIC collaborations contributed to 49% of the increase (378 out of 766 publications) from 2000 to 2019. Topic homophily was significantly lower between local WACS publications and collaborations with UMIC/HIC participation (differed in nine research topics) than it was between local WACS publications and collaborations without UMIC/HIC participation (differed in two research topics).

Conclusions

Publications without international collaboration comprise most WACS research, but the rate of UMIC/HIC collaborations is rapidly increasing. We found that UMIC/HIC collaborations decreased the homophily of topic focus in WACS publications, indicating that global collaborations need to have greater emphasis on the priorities of those in LICs and LMICs.
Spectral dynamics of guided edge removals and identifying transient amplifiers for death–Birth updating
Authors: Richter Hendrik
Published: June 2023

The paper deals with two interrelated topics: (1) identifying transient amplifiers in an iterative process, and (2) analyzing the process by its spectral dynamics, which is the change in the graph spectra by edge manipulation. Transient amplifiers are networks representing population structures which shift the balance between natural selection and random drift. Thus, amplifiers are highly relevant for understanding the relationships between spatial structures and evolutionary dynamics. We study an iterative procedure to identify transient amplifiers for death–Birth updating. The algorithm starts with a regular input graph and iteratively removes edges until desired structures are achieved. Thus, a sequence of candidate graphs is obtained. The edge removals are guided by quantities derived from the sequence of candidate graphs. Moreover, we are interested in the Laplacian spectra of the candidate graphs and analyze the iterative process by its spectral dynamics. The results show that although transient amplifiers for death–Birth updating are generally rare, a substantial number of them can be obtained by the proposed procedure. The graphs identified share structural properties and have some similarity to dumbbell and barbell graphs. We analyze amplification properties of these graphs and also two more families of bell-like graphs and show that further transient amplifiers for death–Birth updating can be found. Finally, it is demonstrated that the spectral dynamics possesses characteristic features useful for deducing links between structural and spectral properties. These feature can also be taken for distinguishing transient amplifiers among evolutionary graphs in general.
Combining virtual monoenergetic imaging and iterative metal artifact reduction in first-generation photon-counting computed tomography of patients with dental implants
Authors: Patzer Theresa Sophie , Kunz Andreas Steven , Huflage Henner , Gruschwitz Philipp , Pannenbecker Pauline , Afat Saif , Herrmann Judith , Petritsch Bernhard , Bley Thorsten Alexander , Grunz Jan-Peter
Published: June 2023

Objectives

While established for energy-integrating detector computed tomography (CT), the effect of virtual monoenergetic imaging (VMI) and iterative metal artifact reduction (iMAR) in photon-counting detector (PCD) CT lacks thorough investigation. This study evaluates VMI, iMAR, and combinations thereof in PCD-CT of patients with dental implants.

Material and methods

In 50 patients (25 women; mean age 62.0 ± 9.9 years), polychromatic 120 kVp imaging (T3D), VMI, T3DiMAR, and VMIiMAR were compared. VMIs were reconstructed at 40, 70, 110, 150, and 190 keV. Artifact reduction was assessed by attenuation and noise measurements in the most hyper- and hypodense artifacts, as well as in artifact-impaired soft tissue of the mouth floor. Three readers subjectively evaluated artifact extent and soft tissue interpretability. Furthermore, new artifacts through overcorrection were assessed.

Results

iMAR reduced hyper-/hypodense artifacts (T3D 1305.0/−1418.4 versus T3DiMAR 103.2/−46.9 HU), soft tissue impairment (106.7 versus 39.7 HU), and image noise (16.9 versus 5.2 HU) compared to non-iMAR datasets (p ≤ 0.001). VMIiMAR ≥ 110 keV subjectively enhanced artifact reduction over T3DiMAR (p ≤ 0.023). Without iMAR, VMI displayed no measurable artifact reduction (p ≥ 0.186) and facilitated no significant denoising over T3D (p ≥ 0.366). However, VMI ≥ 110 keV reduced soft tissue impairment (p ≤ 0.009). VMIiMAR ≥ 110 keV resulted in less overcorrection than T3DiMAR (p ≤ 0.001). Inter-reader reliability was moderate/good for hyperdense (0.707), hypodense (0.802), and soft tissue artifacts (0.804).

Conclusion

While VMI alone holds minimal metal artifact reduction potential, iMAR post-processing enabled substantial reduction of hyperdense and hypodense artifacts. The combination of VMI ≥ 110 keV and iMAR resulted in the least extensive metal artifacts.

Clinical relevance

Combining iMAR with VMI represents a potent tool for maxillofacial PCD-CT with dental implants achieving substantial artifact reduction and high image quality.

Key Points

• Post-processing of photon-counting CT scans with an iterative metal artifact reduction algorithm substantially reduces hyperdense and hypodense artifacts arising from dental implants.

• Virtual monoenergetic images presented only minimal metal artifact reduction potential.

• The combination of both provided a considerable benefit in subjective analysis compared to iterative metal artifact reduction alone.
Global Renormalised Solutions and Equilibration of Reaction–Diffusion Systems with Nonlinear Diffusion
Authors: Fellner Klemens , Fischer Julian , Kniely Michael , Tang Bao Quoc
Published: June 2023

The global existence of renormalised solutions and convergence to equilibrium for reaction–diffusion systems with nonlinear diffusion are investigated. The system is assumed to have quasi-positive nonlinearities and to satisfy an entropy inequality. The difficulties in establishing global renormalised solutions caused by possibly degenerate diffusion are overcome by introducing a new class of weighted truncation functions. By means of the obtained global renormalised solutions, we study the large-time behaviour of complex balanced systems arising from chemical reaction network theory with nonlinear diffusion. When the reaction network does not admit boundary equilibria, the complex balanced equilibrium is shown, by using the entropy method, to exponentially attract renormalised solutions in the same compatibility class. This convergence extends even to a range of nonlinear diffusion, where global existence is an open problem, yet we are able to show that solutions to approximate systems converge exponentially to equilibrium uniformly in the regularisation parameter.
Robotic versus laparoscopic proctectomy: a comparative study of short-term economic and clinical outcomes
Authors: Larach José Tomás , Flynn Julie , Tew Michelle , Fernando Diharah , Apte Sameer , Mohan Helen , Kong Joseph , McCormick Jacob J. , Warrier Satish K. , Heriot Alexander G.
Published: June 2023

Background

Although several studies compare the clinical outcomes and costs of laparoscopic and robotic proctectomy, most of them reflect the outcomes of the utilisation of older generation robotic platforms. The aim of this study is to compare the financial and clinical outcomes of robotic and laparoscopic proctectomy within a public healthcare system, utilising a multi-quadrant platform.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic and robotic proctectomy between January 2017 and June 2020 in a public quaternary centre were included. Demographic characteristics, baseline clinical, tumour and operative variables, perioperative, histopathological outcomes and costs were compared between the laparoscopic and robotic groups. Simple linear regression and generalised linear model analyses with gamma distribution and log-link function were used to determine the impact of the surgical approach on overall costs.

Results

During the study period, 113 patients underwent minimally invasive proctectomy. Of these, 81 (71.7%) underwent a robotic proctectomy. A robotic approach was associated with a lower conversion rate (2.5% versus 21.8%;P = 0.002) at the expense of longer operating times (284 ± 83.4 versus 243 ± 89.8 min;P = 0.025). Regarding financial outcomes, robotic surgery was associated with increased theatre costs (A$23,019 ± 8235 versus A$15,525 ± 6382; P < 0.001) and overall costs (A$34,350 ± 14,770 versus A$26,083 ± 12,647; P = 0.003). Hospitalisation costs were similar between both approaches. An ASA ≥ 3, non-metastatic disease, low rectal cancer, neoadjuvant therapy, non-restorative resection, extended resection, and a robotic approach were identified as drivers of overall costs in the univariate analysis. However, after performing a multivariate analysis, a robotic approach was not identified as an independent driver of overall costs during the inpatient episode (P = 0.1).

Conclusion

Robotic proctectomy was associated with increased theatre costs but not with increased overall inpatient costs within a public healthcare setting. Conversion was less common for robotic proctectomy at the expense of increased operating time. Larger studies will be needed to confirm these findings and examine the cost-effectiveness of robotic proctectomy to further justify its penetration in the public healthcare system.
Quantification of indocyanine green near-infrared fluorescence bowel perfusion assessment in colorectal surgery
Authors: Faber Robin A. , Tange Floris P. , Galema Hidde A. , Zwaan Thomas C. , Holman Fabian A. , Peeters Koen C. M. J. , Tanis Pieter J. , Verhoef Cornelis , Burggraaf Jacobus , Mieog J. Sven D. , Hutteman Merlijn , Keereweer Stijn , Vahrmeijer Alexander L. , van der Vorst Joost R. , Hilling Denise E.
Published: June 2023

Background

Indocyanine green near-infrared fluorescence bowel perfusion assessment has shown its potential benefit in preventing anastomotic leakage. However, the surgeon's subjective visual interpretation of the fluorescence signal limits the validity and reproducibility of the technique. Therefore, this study aimed to identify objective quantified bowel perfusion patterns in patients undergoing colorectal surgery using a standardized imaging protocol.

Method

A standardized fluorescence video was recorded. Postoperatively, the fluorescence videos were quantified by drawing contiguous region of interests (ROIs) on the bowel. For each ROI, a time-intensity curve was plotted from which perfusion parameters (n = 10) were derived and analyzed. Furthermore, the inter-observer agreement of the surgeon’s subjective interpretation of the fluorescence signal was assessed.

Results

Twenty patients who underwent colorectal surgery were included in the study. Based on the quantified time-intensity curves, three different perfusion patterns were identified. Similar for both the ileum and colon, perfusion pattern 1 had a steep inflow that reached its peak fluorescence intensity rapidly, followed by a steep outflow. Perfusion pattern 2 had a relatively flat outflow slope immediately followed by its plateau phase. Perfusion pattern 3 only reached its peak fluorescence intensity after 3 min with a slow inflow gradient preceding it. The inter-observer agreement was poor-moderate (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC): 0.378, 95% CI 0.210–0.579).

Conclusion

This study showed that quantification of bowel perfusion is a feasible method to differentiate between different perfusion patterns. In addition, the poor-moderate inter-observer agreement of the subjective interpretation of the fluorescence signal between surgeons emphasizes the need for objective quantification.
Numerical experiment based on non-linear micropolar finite element to study micro-rotations generated by the non-symmetric Maxwell stress tensor
Authors: Palma Roberto , Pérez-Aparicio José L. , Taylor Robert L.
Published: June 2023

The main aim of the present work is to investigate the role of the Maxwell stress tensor in the study of active materials. Despite the importance of this tensor in modeling mechatronic devices used in sophisticated applications, its non–symmetry still generates controversies in the literature, probably because classical continuum mechanics assumes a symmetric Cauchy stress, although the sum of Cauchy and Maxwell stresses is non–symmetric. In the framework of generalised continuum mechanics–a more advanced formalism than the classical one–, each material point has an associated microstructure so that the micro–rotations of the electric/magnetic dipoles present in real active materials may be simulated. To this end, a modified total stress formulation, including an angular momentum balance, is developed and implemented into a finite element research code using a complex–step formulation. It is concluded that generalised mechanics allows for incorporating both symmetric and non–symmetric contributions of the Maxwell tensor. Consequently, the rotations generated by the electromagnetic field may be analysed. The influence of the complete Maxwell tensor in a magnetostrictive actuator is studied by several magneto–mechanical numerical experiments of a Terfenol–D rod encircled by air, and several conclusions are highlighted.
Bewegung eines Einzelkorns unter dem Einfluss kohärenter Strukturen
Authors: Sindelar C. , Schobesberger J. , Gold T. , Reiterer K. , Worf D. , Hauer C. , Habersack H.
Published: June 2023

Der Einfluss von kohärenten Strukturen auf den Bewegungsbeginn eines fluvialen Einzelkorns wurde in einer grundlegenden Studie experimentell untersucht. Zur vollständigen Charakterisierung kohärenter Strukturen muss das dreidimensionale Geschwindigkeitsfeld zeitlich hochaufgelöst bekannt sein. Unter Einsatz eines tr-3D PTV-Systems (tr = zeitaufgelöst, PTV = Particle Tracking Velocimetry) konnte dies erreicht werden. Der Einfluss von Hairpin-Wirbeln und gegenläufig rotierenden Längswirbeln (VLSM) auf den Sedimenttransport wurde in mehreren Studien postuliert, mangels verfügbarer 3D-Information fehlte aber bisher ein Nachweis. In den vorliegenden „Rolling-Stones-Versuchsserien“ wurde der Bewegungsbeginn eines Einzelkorns auf glatten sowie auf rauen Sohlen untersucht. Es konnte erstmals gezeigt werden, dass sowohl Hairpin-Wirbel als auch VLSM den Bewegungsbeginn auslösen. Hairpin-Wirbel konnten zudem entgegen der gängigen Meinung auch auf rauen Sohlen nachgewiesen werden und lösten den Bewegungsbeginn aus. Die langfristig angelegte Studie soll in den nächsten Jahren auch praktische Anwendungen finden und die Genauigkeit von Sedimenttransportberechnungen in Flüssen erhöhen.
Outcome after microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia in a single center—relation to sex and severity of neurovascular conflict
Authors: Loayza Richard , Wikström Johan , Grabowska Anna , Semnic Robert , Ericson Hans , Abu Hamdeh Sami
Published: June 2023

Background

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN), a severe type of facial pain, is mainly caused by a neurovascular conflict (NVC). The severity of the NVC seems associated with the outcome following microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery. This study aimed to investigate the outcome after MVD and whether it is affected by NVC severity and sex.

Methods

TN patients (n = 109) were followed for 5 to 10 years after MVD. Barrow Neurology Index (BNI), Patients Global Impression of Change (PGIC), complications, and time to relapse were evaluated. The NVC severity was retrospectively reviewed from presurgical MRI. Demographic and clinical factors and NVC severity were analyzed for potential association with outcome after MVD.

Results

The success rate (BNI ≤ 2) was 80% after 5 to 10 years follow-up for TN patients with severe NVC (grade 2–3) and 56% for TN patients with mild NVC (grade 0–1, P = 0.003). No sex difference was observed in outcome for patients with both mild (P = 0.924) and severe NVC (P = 0.883) respectively. Three patients (2.8%) during the hospital stay, and two patients (1.8%) at 6 weeks, experienced a complication requiring invasive treatment. At long-term 52/109 patients (47.7%) reported some type of persistent adverse event, of which the majority were mild and required no treatment.

Conclusions

MVD offers an 80% probability of long-term pain relief in TN patients with severe NVC, with low frequency of serious complications. NVC severity significantly affects outcome after MVD, while no sex differences in outcome were found. In consistency with previous work, the results stress the importance of adequate neuroradiological assessment of the NVC for preoperative patient selection.
Retrospective comparison of percutaneous balloon compression and radiofrequency-thermocoagulation in the management of trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Herta Johannes , Loidl Theresa Bettina , Schmied Tobias , Tomschik Matthias , Khalaveh Farjad , Wang Wei-Te , Dorfer Christian
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To compare percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) and radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFTC) for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia.

Methods

This was a retrospective single-center analysis of data from 230 patients with trigeminal neuralgia who underwent 202 PBC (46%) and 234 RFTC (54%) from 2002 to 2019. Comparison of demographic data and trigeminal neuralgia characteristics between procedures as well as assessment of 1) initial pain relief by an improved Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain intensity scale of I–III; 2) recurrence-free survival of patients with a follow-up of at least 6 months by Kaplan-Meier analysis; 3) risk factors for failed initial pain relief and recurrence-free survival by regression analysis; and 4) complications and adverse events.

Results

Initial pain relief was achieved in 353 (84.2%) procedures and showed no significant difference between PBC (83.7%) and RFTC (84.9%). Patients who suffered from multiple sclerosis (odds ratio 5.34) or had a higher preoperative BNI (odds ratio 2.01) showed a higher risk of not becoming pain free. Recurrence-free survival in 283 procedures was longer for PBC (44%) with 481 days compared to RFTC (56%) with 421 days (p=0.036) but without statistical significance. The only factors that showed a significant influence on longer recurrence-free survival rates were a postoperative BNI ≤ II (P=<0.0001) and a BNI facial numbness score ≥ 3 (p = 0.009). The complication rate of 22.2% as well as zero mortality showed no difference between the two procedures (p=0.162).

Conclusion

Both percutaneous interventions led to a comparable initial pain relief and recurrence-free survival with a low and comparable probability of complications. An individualized approach, considering the advantages and disadvantages of each intervention, should guide the decision-making process. Prospective comparative trials are urgently needed.
Interactions of triazole terconazole with copper and zinc cations
Authors: Jaklová Dytrtová Jana , Kovač Ishak , Navrátil Tomáš , Jakl Michal
Published: June 2023

Terconazole is one of the triazole derivatives with an antifungal effect. It is used locally to treat vaginal yeast infections. Terconazole could interact with copper cations in the vagina or uterus of women who use an intrauterine device releasing copper cations. Other triazole derivatives in complexes with copper cations differ in their properties like toxicity or mobility. Cu2+ can be reduced in the presence of triazoles, which can lead to a Fenton-like reaction and the production of free radicals. Thus, the Cu2+/Cu+ terconazole system can be potentially dangerous. Stoichiometry, fragmentation, and stability of forming complexes were studied with tandem mass spectrometry. The Cu2+/Cu+ terconazole system was measured within the pH range of 4.0–7.2, with a concentration ratio of CuCl2 and terconazole 1:5 to 20:1, with water and ethanol as solvents (1:1). The achieved results suggest that terconazole is partially oxidized in the Cu2+/terconazole system and that this oxidation depends on the pH of a solution. Apart from the oxidized and protonated terconazole, other detected ions and complexes were not significantly affected by pH. The detection of complexes containing Cu+ is alarming because this could correspond to the occurrence of a Fenton-like reaction.

Graphical abstract
Association between the antioxidant properties of SESN proteins and anti-cancer therapies
Authors: Kozak Joanna , Jonak Katarzyna
Published: June 2023

Since the beginning of SESN protein development, they have attracted highly progressive attention due to their regulatory role in multiple signalling pathways. Through their antioxidant activity and autophagy regulation implication, they can function as powerful antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress in cells. SESN proteins received special attention in the field of regulation of reactive oxygen species level in the cell and its interplay with signalling pathways determining energy and nutrient homeostasis. Since perturbations in these pathways are implicated in cancer onset and development, SESNs might constitute potential novel therapeutic targets of broad interest. In this review, we discuss the impact of SESN proteins on anti-cancer therapy based on naturally occurring compounds and conventionally used drugs that influence oxidative stress and autophagy-induced cellular signalling pathways. The significant changes in reactive oxygen species level and nutrient status in cancer cells generate subsequent biological effect through the regulation of SESN-dependent pathways. Thus, SESN may serve as the key molecule for regulating anti-cancer drugs’ induced cellular response.
Assessment of predation risk through conspecific cues by anuran larvae
Authors: Caballero-Díaz Carlos , Arribas Rosa , Polo-Cavia Nuria
Published: June 2023

Accurate assessment of predation risk is critical for prey survival during predator–prey interactions. Prey can assess predation risk by the presence of cues dropped by predators themselves, but they can also gather information about risk level through cues released by other prey, avoiding the hazard of being in close proximity to predators. In this study, we examine the ability of anuran larvae (Pelobates cultripes) to detect predation risk indirectly when they are in contact with conspecifics that have been recently exposed to chemical stimuli from natural predators (larvae of aquatic beetles). In a first experiment, we confirmed that larvae exposed to predator cues exhibited innate defensive behavior, indicating that they perceived the risk of predation and, thus, could potentially act as risk indicators for naïve conspecifics. In a second experiment, we observed that unexposed larvae paired with a startled conspecific adjusted their antipredator behavior, presumably by mirroring conspecifics’ behavior and/or using chemical cues from their partners as a risk information source. This cognitive ability of tadpoles to assess predation risk through conspecific cues might play an important role in their interaction with predators, facilitating the early detection of potential threats to elicit appropriate antipredator responses and increase the chances of survival.
End-to-end stapled technique for Kono-S anastomosis
Authors: Adams E. D. , Zaghiyan K. N. , Fleshner P. R.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Our aim was to develop a Kono-S anastomotic technique using surgical staplers.

Methods

Two patients underwent stapled Kono-S anastomosis, one via abdominal and one transanal approach.

Results

The approach for an abdominal and transanal stapled Kono-S anastomosis is detailed.

Conclusion

The Kono-S anastomosis can be safely configured using common surgical staplers.
Multi-level predictors of being up-to-date with colorectal cancer screening
Authors: Lich Kristen Hassmiller , Mills Sarah D. , Kuo Tzy-Mey , Baggett Chris D. , Wheeler Stephanie B.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Assessing factors associated with being up-to-date with colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is important for identifying populations for which targeted interventions may be needed.

Methods

This study used Medicare and private insurance claims data for residents of North Carolina to identify up-to-date status in the 10th year of continuous enrollment in the claims data and in available subsequent years. USPSTF guidelines were used to define up-to-date status for multiple recommended modalities. Area Health Resources Files provided geographic and health care service provider data at the county level. A generalized estimating equation logistic regression model was used to examine the association between individual- and county-level characteristics and being up-to-date with CRC screening.

Results

From 2012–2016, 75% of the sample (n = 274,660) age 59–75 was up-to-date. We identified several individual- (e.g., sex, age, insurance type, recent visit with a primary care provider, distance to nearest endoscopy facility, insurance type) and county-level (e.g., percentage of residents with a high school education, without insurance, and unemployed) predictors of being up-to-date. For example, individuals had higher odds of being up-to-date if they were age 73–75 as compared to age 59 [OR: 1.12 (1.09, 1.15)], and if living in counties with more primary care physicians [OR: 1.03 (1.01, 1.06)].

Conclusion

This study identified 12 individual- and county-level demographic characteristics related to being up-to-date with screening to inform how interventions may optimally be targeted.
Tuberculosis is associated with sputum metabolome variations, irrespective of patient sex or HIV status: an untargeted GCxGC-TOFMS study
Authors: Beukes Derylize , van Reenen Mari , Loots Du Toit , du Preez Ilse
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Various studies have identified TB-induced metabolome variations. However, in most of these studies, a large degree of variation exists between individual patients.

Objectives

To identify differential metabolites for TB, independent of patients’ sex or HIV status.

Methods

Untargeted GCxGC/TOF-MS analyses were applied to the sputum of 31 TB + and 197 TB- individuals. Univariate statistics were used to identify metabolites which are significantly different between TB + and TB- individuals (a) irrespective of HIV status, and (b) with a HIV + status. Comparisons a and b were repeated for (i) all participants, (ii) males only and (iii) females only.

Results

Twenty-one compounds were significantly different between the TB + and TB- individuals within the female subgroup (11% lipids; 10% carbohydrates; 1% amino acids, 5% other and 73% unannotated), and 6 within the male subgroup (20% lipids; 40% carbohydrates; 6% amino acids, 7% other and 27% unannotated). For the HIV + patients (TB + vs. TB-), a total of 125 compounds were significant within the female subgroup (16% lipids; 8% carbohydrates; 12% amino acids, 6% organic acids, 8% other and 50% unannotated), and 44 within the male subgroup (17% lipids; 2% carbohydrates; 14% amino acids related, 8% organic acids, 9% other and 50% unannotated). Only one annotated compound, 1-oleoyl lysophosphaditic acid, was consistently identified as a differential metabolite for TB, irrespective of sex or HIV status. The potential clinical application of this compound should be evaluated further.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the importance of considering confounders in metabolomics studies in order to identify unambiguous disease biomarkers.