bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The unique monoclonal antibodies and immunochemical assay for comprehensive determination of the cell-bound and soluble HER2 in different biological samples
Authors: Antos Aleksandra , Topolska-Woś Agnieszka , Woś Marcin , Mitura Agata , Sarzyńska Paulina , Lipiński Tomasz , Kurylcio Andrzej , Ziółkowski Piotr , Świtalska Marta , Tkaczuk-Włach Joanna , Gamian Andrzej , Polkowski Wojciech P. , Staniszewska Magdalena
Published: February 2024

The expression of the HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) protein in cancer cells is a well-established cancer marker used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in modern treatment protocols, especially in breast cancer. The gold-standard immunohistochemical diagnostic methods with the specific anti-HER2 antibodies are utilized in the clinic to measure expression level of the membrane-bound receptor. However, a soluble extracellular domain (ECD) of HER2 is released to the extracellular matrix, thus the blood assays for HER2 measurements present an attractive way for HER2 level determination. There is a need for accurate and validated assays that can be used to correlate the concentration of the circulating HER2 protein with disease clinical manifestations. Here we describe two monoclonal antibodies binding HER2 with a unique sequence of the complementarity-determining regions that recognize HER2 ECD. Development and validation of the sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for quantification of the soluble HER2 in a variety of biological samples is also presented. The assay provides HER2 quantitation within a concentrations range from 1.56 to 100 ng/ml with sensitivity at the level of 0.5 ng/ml that meets the expectations for measurements of HER2 in the blood and tumor tissue samples. The method presents satisfactory intra- and inter-assay precision and accuracy for immunochemical quantification of biomarkers in biological samples. The utility of the generated monoclonal anti-HER2 antibodies has been confirmed for use in the precise measurement of HER2 (both cell-bound and soluble) in several types of biological material, including serum, solid tumor tissue, and cell culture medium. Additionally, the developed immunochemical tools have a potential for HER2 detection, not only in a wide range of sample types but also independently of the sample storage/pre-processing, allowing for comprehensive HER2 analysis in tissue (IHC), cultured cells (immunofluorescence) and blood (ELISA).
Lower left atrial function in young individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus compared to healthy controls: an echocardiographic study
Authors: Fridolfsson Cecilia , Thegerström Johanna , Åkesson Karin , Engvall Jan , Blomstrand Peter
Published: February 2024

In adulthood, individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus may develop a condition of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. However, subclinical changes to the heart in diabetes are likely to occur prior to the clinical presentation. This cross-sectional study aimed to compare left atrial function by echocardiography between 43 individuals with type 1 diabetes and 43 healthy controls, aged 10–30 years. All participants underwent echocardiography and 2D speckle tracking measurements for left atrial phase function parameters. Physical capacity was assessed by exercise test on a bicycle. Results showed that participants with type 1 diabetes had significantly lower left atrial function parameters than healthy controls (p < 0.05). There was a significant negative correlation between HbA1c means and reservoir and conduit strain (p < 0.05) and individuals with BMI < 30 showed a lower left atrial stiffness (p < 0.05). Individuals with type 1 diabetes and a higher physical capacity did not differ from their healthy peers. Results indicate that lower HbA1c levels, BMI < 30 and a higher physical capacity are favourable in terms of left atrial function in children and young adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Left atrial strain by echocardiography might become a new important tool in assessing heart function in T1DM.
Traditional potato tillage systems in the Peruvian Andes impact bacterial diversity, evenness, community composition, and functions in soil microbiomes
Authors: García-Serquén Aura L. , Chumbe-Nolasco Lenin D. , Navarrete Acacio Aparecido , Girón-Aguilar R. Carolina , Gutiérrez-Reynoso Dina L.
Published: February 2024

The soil microbiome, a crucial component of agricultural ecosystems, plays a pivotal role in crop production and ecosystem functioning. However, its response to traditional tillage systems in potato cultivation in the Peruvian highlands is still far from understood. Here, ecological and functional aspects of the bacterial community were analyzed based on soil samples from two traditional tillage systems: 'chiwa' (minimal tillage) and 'barbecho' (full tillage), in the Huanuco region of the Peruvian central Andes. Similar soil bacterial community composition was shown for minimal tillage system, but it was heterogeneous for full tillage system. This soil bacterial community composition under full tillage system may be attributed to stochastic, and a more dynamic environment within this tillage system. 'Chiwa' and 'barbecho' soils harbored distinct bacterial genera into their communities, indicating their potential as bioindicators of traditional tillage effects. Functional analysis revealed common metabolic pathways in both tillage systems, with differences in anaerobic pathways in 'chiwa' and more diverse pathways in 'barbecho'. These findings open the possibilities to explore microbial bioindicators for minimal and full tillage systems, which are in relationship with healthy soil, and they can be used to propose adequate tillage systems for the sowing of potatoes in Peru.
Fluorescence-guided minimally-invasive resection of abdominal paragangliomas using indocyanine green
Authors: van Dam M. A. , Crobach A. S. L. P. , Boekestijn B. , Corssmit E. P. M. , Bonsing B. A. , Vahrmeijer A. L. , Mieog J. S. D.
Published: February 2024

This retrospective study explores the utility of near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green (ICG) in enhancing the intraoperative identification and guidance for the resection of abdominal paragangliomas. They can be challenging to detect during minimally invasive surgery, due to their anatomical location, varying size and similar appearance in regard to their surrounding tissue. Patients with suspected abdominal paragangliomas planned for a minimally-invasive resection were included. As part of standard of care they received single intravenous dose of 5 mg ICG after abdominal exploration. NIR fluorescence imaging of the anatomical region of the suspected lesion was performed immediately following intravenous administration, to assess fluorescence signals, intraoperative identification, and histopathological correlation. Out of five resected suspicious lesions, four were imaged with NIR fluorescence, pathology confirming four as paragangliomas, the latter turned out to be an adrenal adenoma. NIR fluorescence identified all four lesions, surpassing the limitations of white-light visualization. Homogeneous fluorescence signals appeared 30–60 s post-ICG administration, which lasted up to 30 min. The study demonstrates the feasibility and potential clinical value of fluorescence-guided minimally-invasive resections of abdominal paragangliomas using a single intravenous ICG dose. These findings support the scientific basis for routine use of ICG-fluorescence-guided surgery in challenging anatomical cases, providing valuable assistance in lesion detection and resection.
Effects of testing speed on the tensile and mode I fracture behavior of specimens printed through the Fused Deposition Modeling technique
Authors: Zhan Jiangtao , Cai Jie , Hasani Reza
Published: February 2024

Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes are known as revolutionary manufacturing processes that fabricate a part using a 3D model layer upon layer. These techniques gained more attention from various industries due to their advantages like low waste material. Also, these processes can produce any part with high degrees of complexity in a short period of time. The Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) process is a material extrusion-based technique which works by extruding a fine molten polymeric filament through a heated nozzle on the heated platform named printer bed. In this method, some important manufacturing parameters play a crucial role in controlling the mechanical properties and quality of the final fabricated part. However, all printed specimens through the FDM process should be tested based on the standards under some critical circumstances. Thus, in the current research paper, five and three test speeds are considered in tensile and fracture testing procedures, respectively to evaluate how these speeds can affect the mechanical and mode I fracture properties. Also, as the FDM specimens present elastic–plastic behavior, the critical value of J-integral is assumed as a fracture assessment and calculated from the finite element analysis. Among the mechanical properties, ultimate tensile strength is affected significantly by the test speed. For instance, the ultimate tensile strength of FDM specimens is 39.02, 38.58, 42.33, 48.09, and 52.11 for test speeds of 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mm/min, respectively. But vice-versa results are detected for the mode I fracture behavior and corresponding values of J for the FDM-PLA specimens. Finally, experimental and numerical results together with comprehensive discussions about the considered speeds and obtained results are reported.
Contrasting sensitivity of air temperature trends to surface soil temperature trends between climate models and reanalyses
Authors: Qiao Yumeng , Wang Guojie , Hagan Daniel Fiifi Tawia , Lim Kam Sian Kenny Thiam Choy , Chen Liangzhi , Aalto Juha , Li Shijie , Zou Xiao , Lu Jiao
Published: February 2024

The sensitivity strength of air temperature (T) to surface soil temperature (sST) (namely β hereafter) constitutes a significant factor in how global climate models quantify changes in the climate. This study examines how this sensitivity is represented in the CMIP6 models. Results show regional differences and even contrasts in the β trends at interannual scales between climate models and two reanalysis products during 1980–2014. At high latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere (NH), β is stronger in the CMIP6 models than in the reanalysis data. Additionally, the β trends differ between the CMIP6 and reanalysis data, which may be related to the different precipitation (PR) and soil water availability (PR-ET) trends between the models. In the regions of increasing β intensity at high latitudes in the NH, sST is more sensitive to PR and PR-ET. Consequently, increasing PR and PR-ET leads to slower sST changes, potentially making β intensity stronger in CMIP6 models. However, in the reanalysis data, decreases in PR and PR-ET accelerate sST changes, leading to a weakening of the β intensity. A resulting implication is that β, based on high-emission scenarios, shows a stronger trend during 2015–2100, although this trend could potentially be overestimated. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the sensitivity of T to sST and facilitate the assessment of energy exchange between the land surface and the atmosphere in climate models.
Distinct spatiotemporal patterns of cortical thinning in Alzheimer’s disease-type cognitive impairment and subcortical vascular cognitive impairment
Authors: Kim Jinhee , Kim Jonghoon , Park Yu-hyun , Yoo Heejin , Kim Jun Pyo , Jang Hyemin , Park Hyunjin , Seo Sang Won
Published: February 2024

Previous studies on Alzheimer’s disease-type cognitive impairment (ADCI) and subcortical vascular cognitive impairment (SVCI) has rarely explored spatiotemporal heterogeneity. This study aims to identify distinct spatiotemporal cortical atrophy patterns in ADCI and SVCI. 1,338 participants (713 ADCI, 208 SVCI, and 417 cognitively unimpaired elders) underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), amyloid positron emission tomography, and neuropsychological tests. Using MRI, this study measures cortical thickness in five brain regions (medial temporal, inferior temporal, posterior medial parietal, lateral parietal, and frontal areas) and utilizes the Subtype and Stage Inference (SuStaIn) model to predict the most probable subtype and stage for each participant. SuStaIn identifies two distinct cortical thinning patterns in ADCI (medial temporal: 65.8%, diffuse: 34.2%) and SVCI (frontotemporal: 47.1%, parietal: 52.9%) patients. The medial temporal subtype of ADCI shows a faster decline in attention, visuospatial, visual memory, and frontal/executive domains than the diffuse subtype (p-value < 0.01). However, there are no significant differences in longitudinal cognitive outcomes between the two subtypes of SVCI. Our study provides valuable insights into the distinct spatiotemporal patterns of cortical thinning in patients with ADCI and SVCI, suggesting the potential for individualized therapeutic and preventive strategies to improve clinical outcomes.
Nodal superconductivity in miassite Rh17S15
Authors: Kim Hyunsoo , Tanatar Makariy A. , Kończykowski Marcin , Grasset Romain , Kaluarachchi Udhara S. , Teknowijoyo Serafim , Cho Kyuil , Sapkota Aashish , Wilde John M. , Krogstad Matthew J. , Bud’ko Sergey L. , Brydon Philip M. R. , Canfield Paul C. , Prozorov Ruslan
Published: February 2024

Solid state chemistry has produced a plethora of materials with properties not found in nature. For example, high-temperature superconductivity in cuprates is drastically different from the superconductivity of naturally occurring metals and alloys and is frequently referred to as unconventional. Unconventional superconductivity is also found in other synthetic compounds, such as iron-based and heavy-fermion superconductors. Here, we report compelling evidence of unconventional nodal superconductivity in synthetic samples of Rh17S15 (Tc = 5.4 K), which is also found in nature as the mineral miassite. We investigated the temperature-dependent variation of the London penetration depth Δλ(T) and the disorder evolution of the critical superconducting temperature Tc and the upper critical field Hc2(T) in single crystalline Rh17S15. We found a T − linear temperature variation of Δλ(T) below 0.3Tc, which is consistent with the presence of nodal lines in the superconducting gap of Rh17S15. The nodal character of the superconducting state is supported by the observed suppression of Tc and Hc2(T) in samples with a controlled level of non-magnetic disorder introduced by 2.5 MeV electron irradiation. We propose a nodal sign-changing superconducting gap in the A1g irreducible representation, which preserves the cubic symmetry of the crystal and is in excellent agreement with the derived superfluid density. To the best of our knowledge, this establishes miassite as the only mineral known so far that reveals unconventional superconductivity in its clean synthetic form, though it is unlikely that it is present in natural crystals because of unavoidable impurities that quickly destroy nodal superconductivity.
Advanced postoperative tissue antiadhesive membranes enabled with electrospun nanofibers
Authors: Zhu Yanting , Zhang Chenwei , Liang Ying , Shi Jianyuan , Yu Qiuhao , Liu Shen , Yu Dengguang , Liu Hui
Published: February 2024

Electrospun nanofibers with fascinating properties provide a versatile platform for postoperative tissue anti-adhesion.
Abnormal condensation of water vapour at ambient temperature
Authors: Guo Chenchen , Yang Kun , Qin Hairong , Zhu Yong , Chen Min , Lü Yongjun
Published: February 2024

The homogeneous condensation of water vapor at ambient temperature is studied using molecular dynamics simulation.
Leaching Li from mixed cathode materials of spent lithium-ion batteries via carbon thermal reduction
Authors: Zha Yunchun , Li Yuyun , Fei Zitong , Fan Changyi , Meng Qi , Peng Xingyi , Dong Peng
Published: February 2024

Carbon thermal reduction leaching Li+ closed-loop recovery of spent lithium-ion batteries.
Microwave-assisted synthesis of oxygen vacancy associated Bi–TiO2 nanocomposite for degradation of rhodamine B under visible light irradiation
Authors: Sun Yuxing , Zhang Zilong , Yang Juan , Wang Xiang , Peng Huanjun , Peng Jingdong
Published: February 2024

Oxygen vacancy and bismuth were introduced onto TiO2 nanoparticles by a microwave-assisted method. The band structure reduces after the introduction of bismuth and oxygen vacancy, providing an enhanced photocatalytic ability.
Non-destructive real-time monitoring and investigation of the self-assembly process using fluorescent probes
Authors: Ji Xiongtao , Wang Na , Wang Jingkang , Wang Ting , Huang Xin , Hao Hongxun
Published: February 2024

Fluorescent probes for detecting complex environments in vivo play an important role in self-assembly in vitro.
A 3D crinkled MXene/TiO2 heterostructure with interfacial coupling for ultra-fast and reversible potassium storage
Authors: Zhang Xinyue , Wang Jing , Jiang Yuting , Zhang Meng , Min Huihua , Yang Hao , Wang Jin
Published: February 2024

MXenes have been regarded as a rising star of energy storage materials due to their excellent physiochemical properties.
A 3D porous P-doped Cu–Ni alloy for atomic H* enhanced electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate to ammonia
Authors: Ma Zhichao , Wang Chenyi , Yang Tianfang , Wei Gangya , Huang Jinrui , Liu Mengran , Zhang Kun , Zhang Zunjie , Liu Yang , Gao Shuyan
Published: February 2024

A 3D porous phosphorus (P)-doped Cu–Ni alloy are constructed through a one-step electrodeposition synthesis. The doped P promotes the hydrogenation process in the atomic H* path and effectively accelerates the NRA reaction rate.
Amphiphilic multi-targeting copolymer micelles efficiently deliver pZNF580 to promote endothelial cell proliferation and migration
Authors: Li Chen , Xu Qirong , Meng Xiangyan , Duo Xinghong , Feng Yakai
Published: February 2024

In this study, amphiphilic multitarget copolymer micelle TCMs were developed for the effective delivery of the pZNF580 plasmid to HUVECs. The proliferation, migration, and in vitro angiogenesis of HUVECs were significantly enhanced as a result.
The role of reducibility vis-à-vis oxygen vacancies of doped Co3O4/CeO2 in the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Roy Saraswati , Dahiya Preeti , Mandal Tapas Kumar , Roy Sounak
Published: February 2024

CeO2 aids Ce4+ → Ce3+ reduction, facilitating Co2+ → Co3+ oxidation in Co3O4 during OER's positive potential. Intermediate Co3+ lowers activation energy, boosting OER kinetics.
Synthesis of halogenated benzimidazolyl-C-nucleosides and their activity against Leishmania major and Leishmania tropica
Authors: Khan Umair Ahmed , Choudhary M. Iqbal , Yousuf Sammer
Published: February 2024

Here we report the short synthesis of “reversed” halogenated C-nucleoside (benzimidazole) analogs.
Low Communication‐Cost PSI Protocol for Unbalanced Two‐Party Private Sets
Authors: Ning Jingyu , Tan Zhenhua , Zhang Kaibing , Ye Weizhong
Published: February 2024

Two‐party private set intersection (PSI) plays a pivotal role in secure two‐party computation protocols. The communication cost in a PSI protocol is normally influenced by the sizes of the participating parties. However, for parties with unbalanced sets, the communication costs of existing protocols mainly depend on the size of the larger set, leading to high communication cost. In this paper, we propose a low communication‐cost PSI protocol designed specifically for unbalanced two‐party private sets, aiming to enhance the efficiency of communication. For each item in the smaller set, the receiver queries whether it belongs to the larger set, such that the communication cost depends solely on the smaller set. The queries are implemented by private information retrieval which is constructed with trapdoor hash function. Our investigation indicates that in each instance of invoking the trapdoor hash function, the receiver is required to transmit both a hash key and an encoding key to the sender, thus incurring significant communication cost. In order to address this concern, we propose the utilization of a seed hash key, a seed encoding key, and a Latin square. By employing these components, the sender can autonomously generate all the necessary hash keys and encoding keys, obviating the multiple transmissions of such keys. The proposed protocol is provably secure against a semihonest adversary under the Decisional Diffie–Hellman assumption. Through implementation demonstration, we showcase that when the sizes of the two sets are 28 and 214, the communication cost of our protocol is only 3.3% of the state‐of‐the‐art protocol and under 100 Kbps bandwidth, we achieve 1.46x speedup compared to the state‐of‐the‐art protocol. Our source code is available on GitHub: https://github.com/TAN-OpenLab/Unbanlanced-PSI.
Performance evaluation in cataract surgery with an ensemble of 2D–3D convolutional neural networks
Authors: Tanin Ummey , Duimering Adrienne , Law Christine , Ruzicki Jessica , Luna Gabriela , Holden Matthew
Published: February 2024

An important part of surgical training in ophthalmology is understanding how to proficiently perform cataract surgery. Operating skill in cataract surgery is typically assessed by real‐time or video‐based expert review using a rating scale. This is time‐consuming, subjective and labour‐intensive. A typical trainee graduates with over 100 complete surgeries, each of which requires review by the surgical educators. Due to the consistently repetitive nature of this task, it lends itself well to machine learning‐based evaluation. Recent studies utilize deep learning models trained on tool motion trajectories obtained using additional equipment or robotic systems. However, the process of tool recognition by extracting frames from the videos to perform phase recognition followed by skill assessment is exhaustive. This project proposes a deep learning model for skill evaluation using raw surgery videos that is cost‐effective and end‐to‐end trainable. An advanced ensemble of convolutional neural network models is leveraged to model technical skills in cataract surgeries and is evaluated using a large dataset comprising almost 200 surgical trials. The highest accuracy of 0.8494 is observed on the phacoemulsification step data. Our model yielded an average accuracy of 0.8200 and an average AUC score of 0.8800 for all four phase datasets of cataract surgery proving its robustness against different data. The proposed ensemble model with 2D and 3D convolutional neural networks demonstrated a promising result without using tool motion trajectories to evaluate surgery expertise.
Density of identifying codes of hexagonal grids with finite number of rows
Authors: Sampaio Rudini M. , Sobral Gabriel A.G. , Wakabayashi Yoshiko
Published: February 2024

In a graph G, a set C ⊆ V (G) is an identifying code if, for all vertices v in G, the sets N[v] ∩ C are all nonempty and pairwise distinct, where N[v] denotes the closed neighbourhood of v. We focus on the minimum density of identifying codes of infinite hexagonal grids Hk with k rows, denoted by d*(Hk), and present optimal solutions for k ≤ 5. Using the discharging method, we also prove a lower bound in terms of maximum degree for the minimum-density identifying codes of well-behaved infinite graphs. We prove that d*(H2) = 9/20, d*(H3) = 6/13 ≈ 0.4615, d*(H4) = 7/16 = 0.4375 and d*(H5) = 11/25 = 0.44. We also prove that H2 has a unique periodic identifying code with minimum density.
Perinatologische Kompetenznetzwerke: Die Versorgung von Schwangeren
und Neugeborenen in einer Region
Authors: Rüdiger Mario , Reichert Jörg , Schmitt Jochen , Birdir Cahit
Published: February 2024

Die gesundheitliche Versorgung von Schwangeren und deren Neugeborenen steht mit
Geburtenrückgang und Fachkräftemangel vor großen
Herausforderungen. In der aktuellen Diskussion um Zukunftskonzepte wird
häufig die mit den Mindestmengen verbundene Zentralisierung und die
notwendige Absicherung einer Versorgung in der Fläche als Zielkonflikt
konstruiert. Vielmehr sind Konzepte erforderlich, Schwangeren und deren Kindern
auch in der Zukunft eine wohnortnahe Versorgungsgerechtigkeit zu garantieren. Am
Beispiel des Zentrum für feto/neonatale Gesundheit wird gezeigt,
wie die Partner in einer Region gemeinsam überörtlich und
krankenhausübergreifend die Versorgung während der
Schwangerschaft, unter der Geburt und während der Neonatalperiode
sichern können. Die enge Kooperation von Maximalversorger mit regionalen
Partnern ermöglicht eine flächendeckende gesundheitliche
Versorgung. Gleichzeitig ermöglicht die Zusammenarbeit,
Krankenhäuser als attraktive Arbeitgeber in strukturschwachen Regionen
zu halten und junge Familien mit Bedarf an medizinischen Leistungen rund um die
Schwangerschaft und Geburt durch gute wohnort- und arbeitsplatznahe
familiäre und soziale Einbindung flächendeckend zu versorgen.
Dabei sind die übergeordneten Ziele des Zentrum für
feto/neonatale Gesundheit eine optimale, leitliniengerechte, fach- und
sektorenübergreifende Versorgung von Schwangeren und Früh- bzw.
kranken Neugeborenen in der Region, ein fächer- und
strukturübergreifender Ausbau der Forschung, sowie strukturierte Aus-,
Fort- und Weiterbildung auf dem Gebiet der Pränatal- und Geburtsmedizin
sowie Neonatologie. Zur Sicherstellung der Versorgung im Sinne der Value based
Health Care ist es wichtig, diese Konzepte auszubauen, auf andere
Versorgungsgebiete zu übertragen und langfristig zu evaluieren. Nur so
kann die Versorgungsgerechtigkeit Schwangerer bzw. Neugeborener auch
künftig gewährleistet werden.
Perioperative Insulin Pump Therapy Decreases Readmission Risk and
Improves Outcomes in Patients with Diabetes
Authors: Wang Kun , Bai Fang , Chen Xiaopan , Miller Joshua D. , Chen Xue , Yun Chuan , Sun Zhenzhen , Yuan Xiaodan , Lou Qingqing
Published: February 2024

Objective To evaluate the impact of temporary insulin pump use during
hospitalization on glycemia, postoperative complications, and
cost/utilization in perioperative patients with diabetes.

Methods Patients (n=159) with type 2 diabetes and hospitalized for
elective surgery were recruited from three hospitals. Subjects were categorized
into the insulin pump group and the multiple daily subcutaneous insulin
injection group according to their treatment therapy. Data were collected at
admission, discharge, and 3 months post-discharge.

Results Subjects in the CSII group who were still on insulin therapy
transitioned from CSII to MDII; however, their daily insulin dosages were lower
than those in the MDII group (15.31±10.98 U/d vs.
23.48±17.02 U/d, P=0.015) after discharge. In terms of
medical costs, the CSII group had significantly higher hospitalization costs
than the MDII group (112.36±103.43 thousand RMB vs. 82.65±77.98
thousand RMB, P=0.043). After 3 months, the CSII group had significantly
lower outpatient costs than the MDII group (3.17±0.94 thousand RMB vs.
3.98±1.76 thousand RMB, P ˂ 0.001). In the MDII group,
10 patients reported severe postoperative complications requiring
re-hospitalization; there were no similar reports in the CSII group.

Conclusion Temporary use of insulin pump therapy for perioperative
patients with diabetes results in a reduction in blood glucose and blood glucose
fluctuation during hospitalization, HbA1c, and the risk of postoperative
complication and readmission, thus significantly decreasing costs in this
complex patient cohort. Further work is needed to better understand indications
for utilizing pump therapy based on diabetes phenotype and the complexity of
planned surgical intervention.
Ellenbogen und Schultergelenksarthritis – eine
„jurassic world“ der Rheumatologie?
Authors: Arbogast Martin
Published: February 2024

Eine Mitbeteiligung des Ellenbogen- oder Schultergelenks bei einer
entzündlich-rheumatischen Grunderkrankung zu erkennen kann
anfänglich schwierig und meist erst in späten Stadien gegeben.
Neben der unerlässlichen klinischen Untersuchung haben MRT und die
Sonographie in der Erstdiagnostik die Röntgenuntersuchung
abgelöst. Insbesondere die Sonographie mit oder ohne Powerdoppler
bestätigt den klinischen Verdacht einer Mitbeteiligung an beiden
Gelenken zuverlässig. Die entzündlich verbreiterte Synovialis
mit Zottenformationen und Ergussbildung beweisen den frühen Befall. Die
rasche Optimierung der immunsupprimierenden medikamentösen Therapie in
Kombination mit lokal entzündungshemmenden Maßnahmen
können operative Konsequenzen hinauszögern. Engmaschige
Kontrollen in 3-monatigen Intervallen gewährleisten den
längerfristigen Gelenkerhalt. Bei therapieresistenten Gelenken kann die
arthroskopische oder offene Synovialektomie bis zu einem radiologischen
Larsenstadium III indiziert sein. Eine ergänzende Indikation zwischen
Stadium III und IV stellt die erweiterte Synovialektomie mit Radiuskopfresektion
am Ellenbogen dar, die bei schmerzhafter Pro- und Supination eine dauerhafte
Alltagstauglichkeit wiederherstellen kann. Bei einem ausgeprägterem
Destruktionsgrad IV und V ist die Endoprothetik an Schulter wie auch am
Ellenbogen erfolgreich.
Friedel–Crafts Alkylation of Indoles with Aldehydes/Ketones Catalyzed by Bromodiarylethene-Based Photoacid Generators
Authors: Shirinian Valerii Z. , Zakharov Alexey V. , Timofeeva Sofia M.
Published: February 2024

Diarylethenes (DAEs) with a bromine atom at the ring-closing position catalyze C–C bonding reactions induced by UV or sunlight. Upon photo-irradiation, bromodiarylethenes undergo 6π-electrocyclization (6π-EC), followed by the release of an acid species that catalyzes the double Friedel–Crafts addition of indoles to aldehydes and isatins to form the corresponding triarylmethanes and 3,3′-diarylindolin-2-ones. This protocol is applicable to a wide spectrum of aldehydes and isatins, as well as chalcones as electrophiles. Acid or oxidant-sensitive functional groups, such as ferrocene, 4-methoxyphenyl, thiophene, pyrrole are tolerated. Mechanistic studies show that light is needed to initiate the reaction.
Prevalence of endoscopy-related injuries and their impact on clinical practice: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Singh Achintya D. , Aggarwal Nishant , Mohan Babu P. , Madhu Deepak , Song Gengqing , Bhatt Amit , Chahal Prabhleen , Landsman Marc
Published: February 2024

Background Endoscopy-related musculoskeletal injuries (ERIs) are commonly reported but their exact prevalence and clinical impact remain obscure. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the current literature aiming to answer these questions.

Methods The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and SCOPUS databases were searched for studies evaluating ERIs in gastroenterologists and surgeons. The co-primary outcome was the prevalence of ERIs (i.e. carpal tunnel syndrome, de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, and hand numbness). The second co-primary outcome was the prevalence of endoscopy-related pain syndromes.

Results 12 studies, including 4563 respondents, were included. The majority of respondents were men (n = 3321; 72.8%) and most were right-handed (86.2%). The career prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome (pooled from 10 studies) was 5.3% (95%CI 1.5%–8.9%; I
2 = 97.1%), while the prevalence of de Quervain’s tenosynovitis (five studies) was 8.5% (95%CI 0.1%–17.0%). The pooled prevalences of thumb pain, neck pain, and back pain were 25.4%, 23.1%, and 19.7%, respectively, but the prevalence varied according to the type of questionnaire used. Only 341/864 respondents (39.5%) had received prior training in ergonomics, while 623/889 respondents (70.1%) expressed a desire for further training in ergonomics. Overall, there is a moderate risk of bias in the present literature.

Conclusion ERIs, including carpal tunnel syndrome, de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, and endoscopy-related pain, are very common. These injuries can be severe, requiring surgery, and lead to loss of productivity. Most gastroenterologists report an unmet need for training in the proper ergonomics of endoscopy.
Pan-intestinal capsule endoscopy as first-line procedure in patients with suspected mid or lower gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Rosa Bruno , Cúrdia Gonçalves Tiago , Moreira Maria J. , Dias de Castro Francisca , Sousa-Pinto Bernardo , Dinis-Ribeiro Mário , Cotter José
Published: February 2024

Background Pan-intestinal capsule endoscopy (PCE) evaluates the small bowel and colon noninvasively. This study evaluated diagnostic accuracy and safety of PCE vs. colonoscopy as first-line examination in suspected mid–lower gastrointestinal bleeding (MLGIB).

Methods In this prospective, single-center, single-blinded cohort study, consecutive patients with suspected MLGIB underwent PCE followed by same-day colonoscopy. Diagnostic accuracy for potentially hemorrhagic lesions (PHLs; combined diagnosis by PCE + colonoscopy) and incidence of adverse events were assessed.

Results 100 patients were included (median age 70 [range 18–92] years; 65% female). PHLs were diagnosed in 46 patients, including small-bowel and/or colon angioectasias in 32. PCE correctly identified 54 individuals without PHLs, and 95.7% (44/46) of those with PHLs vs. 50.0% (23/46) for colonoscopy (P<0.01). PHLs were detected by PCE alone in 65.2% (30/46), both examinations in 28.3% (13/46), and colonoscopy alone in 6.5% (3/46). PHLs were diagnosed at the ileocolonic region in 28% of patients, with PCE diagnosing 25/28 cases (89.3%) and colonoscopy diagnosing 23/28 (82.1%; P=0.13). Interventional procedures were performed at colonoscopy in 13/81 patients with iron-deficiency anemia (16.0%) vs. 6/19 patients with overt bleeding (31.6%; P<0.01). No significant adverse events occurred with PCE vs. 2% with colonoscopy.

Conclusions In patients with MLGIB, PCE avoided further invasive procedures in >50% of patients. PCE was safe and more effective than colonoscopy in identifying PHL both in the small bowel and colon. These results support the potential use of PCE as first-line examination in patients with suspected MLGIB.
Chemical Constituents from Agave applanata and Its Antihyperglycemic, Anti-inflammatory, and Antimicrobial Activities Associated with Its Tissue Repair Capability
Authors: Aguilar-Guadarrama A. Berenice , Díaz-Román Mónica Aideé , Osorio-García Maribel , Déciga-Campos Myrna , Rios María Yolanda
Published: February 2024

Agave applanata is a Mexican agave whose fresh leaves are employed to prepare an ethanol tonic used to relieve diabetes. It is also applied to skin to relieve varicose and diabetic foot ulcers, including wounds, inflammation, and infections. In this study, the chemical composition of this ethanol tonic is established and its association with antihyperglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound healing activities is discussed. The fresh leaves of A. applanata were extracted with ethanol : H2O (85 : 15). A fraction of this extract was lyophilized, and the remainder was partitioned into CH2Cl2, n-BuOH, and water. CH2Cl2 and n-BuOH fractions were subjected to a successive open column chromatography process. The structure of the isolated compounds was established using nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry spectra. The antihyperglycemic activity was evaluated through in
vivo sucrose and glucose tolerance experiments, as well as ex vivo intestinal absorption and hepatic production of glucose. Wound healing and edema inhibition were assayed in mice. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the hydroalcoholic extract, its fractions, and pure compounds were determined through agar microdilution against the most isolated pathogens from diabetic foot ulcers. Fatty acids, β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, hecogenin (1), N-oleyl-D-glucosamine, β-daucosterol, sucrose, myo-inositol, and hecogenin-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-[β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)]-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-D-galactopyranoside (2) were characterized. This research provides evidence for the pharmacological importance of A. applanata in maintaining normoglycemia, showing anti-inflammatory activity and antimicrobial
effects against the microorganisms frequently found in diabetic foot ulcers. This plant plays an important role in wound healing and accelerated tissue reparation.
Development of an Efficient Synthetic Process for Irisquinone
Authors: Zheng Kun , Zhang Qifeng , Ga Lu , Ma Yuheng , Liang Guodong , Zhao Yan
Published: February 2024

Irisquinone is a tumor radiotherapy sensitizer and has been found to have broad-spectrum antitumor activity in recent years. The current acquisition method of extracting and purifying from semen irisis has greatly limited its wide application and activity study deeply. In this work an efficient route for the synthesis of the irisquinone was investigated to solve the source of it. The target compound was synthesized by 5-step reactions to Wittig reaction, reduction, oxidation, Wittig reaction, and oxidation using 3,5-dimethoxycarboxaldehyde as the starting material with an overall yield of 48%. The key factors such as the ratio of raw materials, temperatures, solvents, reaction times, and types of base for the main reactions were optimized. In addition, the deprotection and reduction were completed with Pd/C catalytic simultaneously when compound 2 was synthesized from compound 1. In the last reaction, the 3,5-dimethoxybenzene moiety of compound 4 was directly oxidized to 6-methoxy-1,4-benzoquinone by K3[Fe(CN)6]/H2O2 without the need to selectively remove the methyl protecting group, which were the innovative points in the experimental route design of the irisquinone synthesis. This work has opened new perspectives for the artificial synthesis and the development of irisquinone.
Early Soft Tissue Response to Immediate Monotype Zirconia Implant: A Metal-Free Restoration
Authors: Scaringi Riccardo , Franchina Alessio , Fiorillo Luca , Galletti Fulvia , Stefanelli Luigi , Di Carlo Stefano , De Angelis Francesca
Published: February 2024

Zirconia in dentistry (zirconium oxide) is an excellent substitute for metal in creating bridges or crowns on both natural teeth and implants and for dental implant fabrication instead of titanium alloys. This case report aims to show the features of zirconia dental implants and prosthodontic restorations to oral soft tissues. Three monotype immediate zirconia implants were placed at the time of tooth extraction. The residual socket gap was treated only by establishing a collagen sponge to stabilize the natural blood clot. Three single zirconia crowns were cemented after 2 months of healing. After 3 years of follow-up, clinical and radiographic stability was demonstrated, confirming the zirconia implants' excellent soft tissue and osseointegration. A zirconia cutback was planned to improve the esthetic result of the whole crown. After 3 years of follow-up visits, clinical and radiographic stability confirmed the optima soft tissue and osseointegration outcome of zirconia implants. Zirconia implants are a valid alternative to titanium implants for treating partial edentulism.
Prevalence of Dyslipidemia, Drug Therapy Problems, and Medication Adherence in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in North Central Nigeria
Authors: Aliyu F.O. , Orimogunje Timothy , Bello S.I. , Abdulbaki M. , Jamiu Muslim Olakunle , Ogaji Ikoni J.
Published: February 2024

Background Patients with diabetes mellitus have an increased risk of developing dyslipidemia, predisposing them to macro- and microvascular consequences such as coronary heart disease.

Aim The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of dyslipidemia, drug therapy problems (DTPs), and medication adherence in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in a tertiary hospital in North Central Nigeria.

Method This study was a cross-sectional convenient sampling of eligible patients conducted in the General Outpatient Department of General Hospital, Ilorin, from March to May 2022. A validated questionnaire was administered to obtain all relevant information on sociodemographic information, and blood samples were collected in a medium plain heparinized tube and sent to the laboratory where fasting blood sugar, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) values were calculated as appropriate. Morisky's Medication Adherence Scale 8 (MMAS-8) was used to capture patient's adherence level, and DTP was assessed using the Pharmaceutical Care Network Europe (PCNE) Criteria version 7. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ministry of Health, Ilorin. Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used to analyze the data collected for descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results The mean age of the respondents was 60 ± 0.7 years. Of the 60 respondents, 25 (41.67%) were males and 35 (58.33%) were females. All the respondents had dyslipidemia, 30% respondents were identified with a DTP of nonadherence, 16.7% needed additional drug/monitoring, dosage was too low in 11.7%, and 11.6% could not afford their medication due to high cost. In all, 45 (75%) respondents had poor sugar control and 33 (55%) had poor blood pressure control. Using MMAS-8, the majority (41, [68.30%]) of the respondents were found to have poor adherence to their diabetic medications.

Conclusion High prevalence of dyslipidemia, poor medication adherence, and DTPs were found in the T2DM patients in this study.
Study of Speech Recognition in Noise and Working Memory in Adults and Elderly with Normal Hearing
Authors: Akashi Daniela Aiko , Martinelli Maria Cecília
Published: February 2024

Introduction In clinical practice, patients with the same degree and configuration of hearing loss, or even with normal audiometric thresholds, present substantially different performances in terms of speech perception. This probably happens because other factors, in addition to auditory sensitivity, interfere with speech perception. Thus, studies are needed to investigate the performance of listeners in unfavorable listening conditions to identify the processes that interfere in the speech perception of these subjects.

Objective To verify the influence of age, temporal processing, and working memory on speech recognition in noise.

Methods Thirty-eight adult and elderly individuals with normal hearing thresholds participated in the study. Participants were divided into two groups: The adult group (G1), composed of 10 individuals aged 21 to 33 years, and the elderly group (G2), with 28 participants aged 60 to 81 years. They underwent audiological assessment with the Portuguese Sentence List Test, Gaps-in-Noise test, Digit Span Memory test, Running Span Task, Corsi Block-Tapping test, and Visual Pattern test.

Results The Running Span Task score proved to be a statistically significant predictor of the listening-in-noise variable. This result showed that the difference in performance between groups G1 and G2 in relation to listening in noise is due not only to aging, but also to changes in working memory.

Conclusion The study showed that working memory is a predictor of listening performance in noise in individuals with normal hearing, and that this task can provide important information for investigation in individuals who have difficulty hearing in unfavorable environments.
Rate and Causes of Unplanned Hospital Returns within 60 Days following Head and Neck Surgery
Authors: Merdad Mazin , Alqutub Abdulsalam , Mogharbel Ahmed , Farid Abdullah , Bayazed Abdullah , Alghamdi Abdulaziz , Albogami Yazeed , Alshehri Rayan , Alnefaie Majed N. , Alamoudi Hanin A.
Published: February 2024

Introduction Unplanned hospital returns are frequent and may be preventable.

Objective To comprehend the reasons for unplanned hospital readmission and return to the Outpatient Department (OPD) and Emergency Department (ED) within 60 days after discharge following head and neck surgery (HNS) at a tertiary care center in Saudi Arabia.

Methods In the present retrospective study, the medical records of all patients who underwent HNS for benign and malignant conditions between January 2015 and June 2022 were reviewed in terms of demographic data, comorbidities, and reasons for hospital return.

Results Out of 1,030 cases, 119 (11.55%) returned to the hospital within 60 days after discharge, 19 of which (1.84%) were readmitted. In total, 90 (8.74%) patients returned to the OPD, and 29 (2.82%), to the ED. The common reasons for readmission included infections (26.32%) and neurological symptoms (21.05%). For OPD visits, the common causes were hematoma (20%) and neurological symptoms (14.44%). For ED returns, the frequent causes were neurological symptoms (20.69%) and equipment issues (17.24%). Compared with nonreadmitted patients, readmitted patients had a higher preoperative baseline health burden when examined using the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score (p = 0.004) and the Cumulative Illness Rating Scale (CIRS; p = 0.002).

Conclusion The 60-day rates of unplanned hospital return to the OPD and ED were of 8.74% and 2.82% respectively, and 1.84% of the patients were readmitted. Hematoma, infections, and neurological symptoms were common causes. Addressing the common reasons may be beneficial to decrease postoperative hospital visits.
Endoscopic Evaluation after Conventional Adenoid Curettage
Authors: Nofal Ahmed Abdelfattah Bayomy , Alnemr Mohamed Abdelmohsen , Sweed Ahmed Hassan , Abdulmageed Alsayed
Published: February 2024

Introduction Adenoidectomy is one of the most common procedures performed by otolaryngologists. Traditional adenoid curettage is performed blindly, which can result in inadequate removal of the adenoid and injury to the surrounding structures.

Objective To perform transnasal endoscopic examinations to assess the nasopharynx after conventional curettage adenoidectomy.

Methods The present prospective study included 100 children with a mean age of 4.2 ± 3.07 years. It is composed of two steps: conventional curettage adenoidectomy by a resident trainee; and endoscopic evaluation of the nasopharynx through a 0° telescope to assess adenoidal remnants, injury to the surgical field or adjacent structures, and bleeding points.

Results Adenoid remnants were observed in 42% of the cases after conventional adenoid curettage in multiple locations, such as the roof of the nasopharynx over the choana (24%), the tubal tonsil (12%), the posterior pharyngeal wall (4%), and the posterior end of the nasal septum (2%). Injury to the surgical field and adjacent structures was observed in 46% of the cases (posterior pharyngeal wall: 23%; lateral pharyngeal wall: 11%; Passavant ridge: 10%; and the Eustachian tube orifice: 2%). Endoscopic bleeding was observed in 29% of the cases; 13% of the cases were from adenoid remnants, 10%, from the mucosa, and 6%, from the pharyngeal muscles. Bleeding was mild in 19% of the cases, moderate in 9%, and severe in 1%.

Conclusion Endoscopic evaluation of the nasopharynx following conventional adenoid curettage provides important data regarding adenoid remnants, injury to the surgical field or nearby structures, and bleeding points, which aids in the provision of optimal care and in the achievement of a better outcome.