bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When The Cart Is Before The Horses - Pyoderma Gangrenosum As Preceding Idiopathic Ulcerative Colitis: First Report in Gambia
Authors:   HOD AIUWA, Senior Internal Medicine Consultant EFSTH, Medicare ltd.,Gambia, Ramos Cabrera Asmell , Barzaga Hector Oscar Victoria , O Oduntan Kehinde , Martinez Mayelin , Jones, Amie , Shallop Jennifer
Published: September 2023

Chronic inflammatory bowel disease is characterized by a plethora of intestinal and extra-intestinal manifestations, and it is not difficult to establish its diagnosis when all the elements are present; however, when the extra-intestinal manifestations precede and are more severe than the intestinal symptoms themselves, then it becomes a diagnostic challenge, delaying treatment, affecting quality of life, and darkening its prognosis. We report a case with six-months onset of necrotic ulcerative lesions, compatible with severe pyoderma gangrenosum, as the first and only manifestation of the disease during first four months, with only and vague symptoms of intestinal manifestations such as abdominal pain, and diarrhea with phlegm and rarely with blood last two months. Diagnosis of ulcerative colitis was established through colonoscopy, with the biopsy being non-specific in the diagnosis of colitis. The response of the dermatological manifestations was spectacular to conventional therapy with steroids and salicylates.
Female Urethral Stenosis After Papiloma Acuminata Infection – Case Report
Authors:   Urology Service, Federal Hospital of Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil., Aldred Pinto Filho João Ernesto , Scopacasa Edgard Costa ,   Urology Service, Federal Hospital of Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil., Costa Mello Luiz Felipe ,   Urology Service, Federal Hospital of Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil., Paulino Ruas João Pedro ,   Urology Service, Federal Hospital of Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil., Ahouagi Cunha Antônio Cláudio ,   Urology Service, Federal Hospital of Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Published: September 2023

Simply Stated In the present article, we describe a rare case of urethral involvement by condyloma acuminata (HPV), in which we describe the signs and symptoms presented by the patient, how the diagnosis is made and the treatment options that offer the best results. That way it can be useful for other people who suffer from the same problem and don't know where to turn. Why this matters? In this present article, we describe a rare case of urethral condyloma acuminata, evolving with stenosis and urinary retention with the use of a suprapubic catheter. An extremely complex and challenging case that is described in detail by a group of authors who have extensive experience in the subject. When talking about diagnosis, tips and tricks are revealed, as well as surgical treatment to obtain the highest success rate. A report like these is very useful for scientific society and serves as a reference for the treatment of new cases, which can change the final outcome in the lives of many other patients.
Newly Diagnosed Anaplastic Astrocytoma: > 23 Year Survival in a 31-Year and 11-Month-Old Female Treated with Antineoplastons
Authors:   Burzynski Clinic, Houston, Texas, USA, Stanislaw Burzynski , Gregory, Burzynski ,   Burzynski Clinic, Houston, Texas, USA, Tomasz Janicki ,   Burzynski Clinic, Houston, Texas, USA, Samuel Beenken ,   Oncology Writings, Calera, Alabama, USA
Published: September 2023

Rationale: Anaplastic astrocytoma (AA), a malignant brain tumor that arises from astrocytic cells, has a poor prognosis. It accounts for 6–7% of gliomas and 1-2% of brain tumors. Objectives: A 31-year and 11-month-old female with an AA is presented to discuss the efficacy of Antineoplastons A10 (Atengenal) and AS2-1 (Astugenal) in the treatment of AA. She presented to the Burzynski Clinic (BC) for treatment and was enrolled in Protocol BT-08, “Phase II Study of Antineoplastons A10 and AS2-1 in Adult Patients with Anaplastic Astrocytoma”, receiving both intravenous (IV) and oral Antineoplastons A10 and AS2-1 (ANP therapy). IV ANP therapy was delivered continuously via subclavian catheter and infusion pump. Tumor response was determined by comparison of baseline brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to sequential brain MRIs during therapy. Findings: The patient presented to the BC with no prior treatment and a one-month history of right arm clumsiness and right leg weakness. Brain MRI and stereotactic biopsy performed elsewhere had demonstrated an AA. Baseline MRI at the BC showed a 2.0 cm2 nonenhancing lesion and two enhancing lesions (0.02 cm2 and 0.15 cm2 ) in the left parietal lobe. IV ANP therapy was given over 56 days, and a complete response (CR) was demonstrated after one month of therapy. Oral ANP therapy was subsequently provided for 17 months. At last follow-up, in June 2023, the patient was healthy and showed no evidence of recurrent disease. She had an overall survival (OS) of > 23 years and one month since diagnosis and an OS of > 23 years since the start of IV ANP therapy. Conclusions: The utilization of ANP therapy in an adult female patient with AA is presented. The patient achieved a CR and prolonged OS, suggesting that ANP therapy may be an effective therapeutic option for adults with AA.
Physical Self-Concept Among Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing People Practicing Swimming
Authors: Abu Eid Faleh , Hatamleh Mahmoud , Harafsheh Ibrahim Mohammad , Alshorman Salwa Adnan
Published: September 2023

Purpose: to identify the level of physical self-concept among deaf and hard of hearing people who practice swimming, as well as identifying the differences according to the variable (management and training/sports rehabilitation). The study sample consisted of ten deaf and hard of hearing people studying physical education at Hashemite University their average age (21 year), average weight (60 k.g.) average length (157 c.m.) . Methods: The research used a descriptive approach using the questionnaire for its suitability to the nature and objectives of the study. The researchers also conducted transactions of honesty and stability on the study tool to ensure its suitability for the study, where the data were processed statistically using (Frequency, Percentage Means, SD, t-test). Results: The results indicated that the level of physical self-concept among deaf and hard of hearing people practicing swimming came with average (4.65) and SD (0.27) wich means high level of self-consept. The results showed no statistically significant differences according to specialization. Conclusion: The researchers recommend conducting more studies on other categories of people with disabilities.
A importância do cirurgião-dentista no diagnóstico de lesões e maus-tratos na infância e adolescência
Authors: Carneiro Letícia Rosa Ferreira , D’Dalarponio Pedro de Alcantara Torquette , Dutra Mariana Bassoli Felix , Carvalho Hugo Figueiredo , Pereira João Gabriel Batista , Machado Matheus Santos , Vargas Adriel Vieira , Sabag Michaela Fabricante , Oliveira Debora Samara de , Santos Júlia Sasso , Silva Ariana Sousa Vieira , Vaz Stephany Mota , Vieira Jaqueline Chagas , Rodrigues Gislane da Silva , Almeida Keruak Ferreira de , Lima Guilherme Oliveira , Custódio Gustavo Paiva
Published: September 2023

Com as sociedades que se construíram ao passar dos anos em todo o mundo, problemas de natureza psicológica, social e física foram surgindo e se desenvolvendo de maneira abrupta e extensa. Dentre eles destacam-se os maus tratos contra crianças e adolescentes, no qual o cirurgião-dentista tem um papel muito importante na identificação de suas manifestações na região de cabeça, pescoço e cavidade oral. Este estudo teve por objetivo, por meio de uma revisão sistemática de literatura, caracterizar, definir, alertar, diagnosticar, definir e agregar ao conhecimento do leitor sobre o insigne papel do cirurgião-dentista no diagnóstico de lesões e maus-tratos não só na infância, mas também na adolescência. Para obter os dados necessários realizou-se uma pesquisa bibliográfica nas bases de dados das Faculdades mais relevantes do Brasil bem como na literatura já prestigiada sobre o tema bem como nas leis brasileiras vigentes. Foram incluídos apenas artigos científicos originais, nos idiomas português, inglês e espanhol, considerando o período de 1991 a 2020. No total, 270 estudos foram selecionados, sendo que destes, apenas 51 foram selecionados por estarem de acordo com os critérios de inclusão. Lamentavelmente pela falta de atenção e até mesmo conhecimento pelos profissionais da saúde, os diagnósticos tanto psicológicos quanto físicos das lesões de maus tratos se tornam complexos e tortuosos, o que acarreta em uma repressão ainda maior das vítimas dessas agressões.
Avaliação da incidência de fungos endofíticos em (Rhizophora spp.) e (Avicennia spp.) de manguezais da Reserva Extrativista Marinha de Soure-Pa
Authors: Craveiro Brenda Silva , Biancalana Adriano , Souza Ramillys Carvalho de , Silva Thiago Costa da , Silva Walliane Nunes da , Assunção Emilly Cristiny de Melo , Biancalana Fernanda Simas Corrêa
Published: September 2023

As plantas hospedam grande diversidade de vida, dentre estas, estão incluídos os fungos endofíticos, os quais ainda não há relatos na literatura sobre a sua ocorrência na Ilha de Marajó, bem como, interações estabelecidas entre endófito e hospedeiro ainda não são totalmente conhecidas. Por esse motivo, o propósito deste trabalho foi realizar um levantamento da comunidade endofítica que coloniza os tecidos vegetais de árvores de Avicennia sp. (mangue-preto) e Rhizophora sp. (mangue-vermelho) presentes na Resexmar de Soure-Pa. Para o isolamento destes fungos, foram realizadas coletas no período de estiagem e no período chuvoso; folhas sadias foram coletadas e direcionadas para desinfecção em laboratório. As amostras foram lavadas em água corrente e detergente neutro, posteriormente inseridas em álcool 70%, seguido de hipoclorito de sódio 2,5%, novamente em álcool 70%, e por fim em água destilada, todas as imersões duraram 1 minuto. Após o procedimento, o material foi direcionado até a cabine de biossegurança para o isolamento em meio de cultura BDA e armazenadas em temperatura ambiente durante sete dias. Posteriormente, as colônias fúngicas foram identificadas a nível de gênero através da análise macroscópica das placas e microscópica das lâminas. A partir da análise foram observadas 242 colônias fúngicas e identificados 10 gêneros endofíticos: Alternaria sp; Aspergillus sp; Colletotrichum sp, Curvularia; Fusarium sp; Geotrichum sp; Penicillium sp; Purpureocillium sp, Rhizopus sp e Trichoderma sp. Diante disso, foi constatada a presença de fungos endofíticos habitando plantas de manguezais da Resexmar Soure, os quais estão amplamente relatados como endofíticos em diversos trabalhos pelo Brasil.
A randomized study comparing the effect of platelet-rich plasma and platelet-poor plasma for the treatment of plantar fasciitis
Authors: Valotto-Junior Elcio , Silva Sandra Bin , Muniz Luis Henrique Garcia , Evangelista Fernanda Ferreira , Scremin Luciano Henrique Gazoni , Kobayashi Elisabete Mitiko , Kimura Elza
Published: September 2023

Objective: To verify the effectiveness of therapy with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in patients with plantar fasciitis, this prospective, longitudinal, double-blind study was carried out. Methodology: Twenty-three participants with chronic plantar fasciitis aged > 20 years, already treated with conventional methods were included. Participants were randomly divided into platelet-poor plasma (PPP) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) groups. Double centrifugation was carried out to prepare the platelets samples and two millilitres of PPP (supernatant fraction) or PRP (sediment fraction) were mixed with 1mL of 2% calcium gluconate solution and injected in the plantar fascia, as a single dose. A follow-up at 15 days and then every 60 days up to 180 days of application was carried out and a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain assessment and the quality-of-life scale validated by the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) were used to measure the outcomes. Results: A reduction in pain (VAS 8 to 4), in both groups, was seen in the first 15 days and remained up to the 6th month after the application of plasmas, however, no difference was observed between the groups. No significant improvement was observed in the quality of life of the patients. Conclusion: PPP or PRP were able to reduce the VAS, but the presence of platelets did not have a role in the pain relief. Other factors in the plasma may play a role in reducing the pain caused by plantar fasciitis for a period of up to 180 days.
Epidemiologia da sífilis gestacional no Nordeste brasileiro: Uma análise dos dados de 2018 a 2021
Authors: Silva Júnior Alonso Rolim , Vital Rilmanny Morgana Nunes , Silva Alana Nunes da , Silva Suzeane Cinthia Nunes , Alexandre José de Almeida , Santos Junior José Ledesvan Pereira dos , Fachin Laércio Pol
Published: September 2023

A sífilis gestacional (SG) é uma doença infecciosa preocupante, podendo ser transmitida da mãe para o feto, causando sérias complicações para a saúde da gestante e do recém-nascido. Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar a epidemiologia da sífilis gestacional no Nordeste brasileiro, com enfoque em dados coletados entre 2018 e 2021. Utilizando informações secundárias do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN), foram examinados aspectos como faixa etária, raça, grau de escolaridade, idade gestacional no diagnóstico, classificação clínica da doença e tratamento das gestantes com sífilis. Os resultados apontam para uma incidência significativa da doença, com destaque para a prevalência entre mulheres jovens e com baixa escolaridade. A identificação tardia da sífilis gestacional também se mostra como uma preocupação relevante, ressaltando a necessidade urgente de aprimorar o acesso ao pré-natal e implementar um rastreamento mais efetivo da doença. Embora o tratamento com penicilina seja amplamente utilizado, a persistência de desafios em regiões com déficits socioeconômicos requer uma abordagem mais abrangente. Essa análise destaca a importância de políticas públicas eficazes para enfrentar a sífilis gestacional, buscando garantir uma abordagem integrada para proteger a saúde materno-infantil na região do Nordeste brasileiro. O estudo ressalta a relevância de investir em programas de educação em saúde, ampliando a conscientização sobre prevenção, cuidados pré-natais e tratamento adequado. Além disso, enfatiza a necessidade de maior atenção às populações mais vulneráveis e ações direcionadas para reduzir as desigualdades sociais e o acesso desigual aos serviços de saúde.
Comprometimento neurossensorial decorrente de iatrogenia durante o tratamento endodôntico: Revisão de literatura
Authors: Couto Alana Almeida , Leal Alex Sandro Mendonça , Ribeiro Ana Graziela Araújo , Silva Ana Paula Nóbrega Caetano da , Valois Érica Martins , Araújo Felipe Nunes , Azevedo Izabelle Maria Cabral de , Cardoso Jemerson da Silva , Carvalho Karinne Travassos Pinto , Cordeiro Layla Ferreira Sousa , Vieira Maria Clara de Sena , Cury Maria Fernanda Mendes
Published: September 2023

A parestesia relacionada ao tratamento endodôntico caracteriza-se como um distúrbio que acomete o tecido nervoso, cujas origens podem ser divididas em injúrias mecânicas e químicas. Os nervos mais acometidos são o nervo alveolar inferior, lingual e mentual e tem como principais sintomas o formigamento, sensação de queimação, dormência e perda da sensibilidade local. Dentre as possíveis causas, os chamados acidentes odontológicos, conhecidos por iatrogenias, podem desencadear tais efeitos, provocando a parestesia dos nervos. Diante disso, este trabalho tem como objetivo realizar uma revisão de literatura para discutir os principais fatores iatrogênicos durante o tratamento endodôntico que podem provocar parestesia. Para a elaboração da revisão de literatura foram selecionados 22 artigos através das bases de dados Google Acadêmico, PubMed e Lilacs com os seguintes termos “endodontia”; "parestesia" e “nervo”, em inglês e português indexados nos “Descritores em Ciências da Saúde” (DeCs). Foram definidos como critérios de inclusão dos artigos: artigos que discutissem os principais fatores iatrogênicos durante o tratamento endodôntico que provocassem parestesia, publicados nos últimos 10 anos e alguns artigos clássicos, nos idiomas português e inglês. Desse modo, é possível concluir que os fatores iatrogênicos que causam parestesia no tratamento endodôntico incluem sobreinstrumentação, extensão excessiva do cone de guta-percha, vazamento de cimento, debris dentinários, solução irrigadora, lesão mecânica ou química do nervo. É importante ter conhecimento anatômico preciso e executar o tratamento corretamente para evitar danos aos tecidos perirradiculares. Assim, é de bom tom a necessidade da elucidação para provável ocorrência de iatrogenia durante a terapia endodôntica.
DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ASCORBIC ACID LOADED POLYELECTROLYTE CHITOSAN-GELATIN HYDROGELS
Authors: EREN BÖNCÜ Tuğba , YÜCEL Çiğdem
Published: September 2023

Objective: Aim of study was to formulate chitosan-gelatin hydrogels containing ascorbic acid, an antioxidant, with/without polyelectrolyte-complex.
Material and Method: Effect of formation polyelectrolyte-complex, gelatin concentration (10-20%) and chitosan:gelatin ratio(1:1, 1:2, 2:1w/w) on the rheological properties, in-vitro release, encapsulation efficiency of hydrogels were investigated. Dissolution rates were also compared using area under dissolution curve (AUC), mean dissolution time (MDT), mean residence time (MRT). Also, the potential for topical use of the hydrogel was evaluated by examining the 24-and 72-hours cytotoxic and proliferative effects on L929 cell line using MTT test.
Result and Discussion: Polyelectrolyte complex formation led to improved drug release and increased viscosity. Cell viability of the free and drug-loaded polyelectrolyte-hydrogels was over 70% at the end of the 72h in all formulations (except formulations with chitosan:gelatin ratio of 1:2w/w) showed that ascorbic acid and hydrogels did not cause cellular toxicity and could be used safely. It has been demonstrated that the gelatin ratio should be at most 50%, and excess gelatin reduces cell viability. F6-coded-polyelectrolyte-hydrogel (20% gelatin; 2:1 chitosan:gelatin w/w) was ideal formulation as it led to best sustained drug release with high MDT and AUC values, and cell viability >80%. In conclusion, polyelectrolyte-complex formation is more superior, and chitosan:gelatin ratio and gelatin concentration can be manipulated to obtain the desired properties.
Caudal peduncle mineralized lesion resembling calcinosis circumscripta in a wels catfish Silurus glanis
Authors: Zamparo S , Orioles M , Brocca G , Stilwell J , Galeotti M , Verin R
Published: September 2023

This report presents an intriguing case of a mineralized lesion resembling calcinosis circumscripta observed in the caudal peduncle of a wels catfish, housed in a public aquarium in northern Italy. The investigation encompasses a comprehensive analysis of various aspects, including clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, as well as gross and microscopic pathology, and immunohistochemistry. Histopathology, in particular, highlighted a severe focally extensive granulomatous reaction, confirmed by dense histiocytic inflammatory infiltrates and the massive presence of multinucleated foreign body type giant cells localized around lakes and aggregates of mineralized material. Moreover, the usefulness and limitations of immunohistochemistry and special stains in characterizing fish tissues and cell types are highlighted. Although reported in elasmobranchs and sturgeons, to our knowledge, this is the first description of calcinosis circumscripta in teleost fish and it offers valuable insights into the understanding of similar pathologies in aquatic organisms.
Hawksbill and green turtle niche overlap in a marine protected area, US Virgin Islands
Authors: Moorehouse MA , Baldwin JD , Hart KM
Published: September 2023

Studying how species interact with their environment and other co-occurring species are 2 main aspects of ecology. For marine turtles, ocean currents drive migratory routes and may determine the location of surrounding foraging grounds. As a result, circumglobal species like the hawksbill turtle Eretmochelys imbricata and green turtle Chelonia mydas adapt to diverse foraging habitats and employ varied feeding strategies. Dietary specializations may reduce competition for available food and space resources between co-occurring hawksbill and green turtles in US Virgin Island shallow reef habitats. This study analyzed isotopic data from immature hawksbill (n = 49; range: 18.7-49.8 cm straight carapace length [SCL]) and green turtles (n = 225; range: 24.1-69.4 cm SCL) to examine foraging niche. We used nitrogen stable isotope (δ15N) values as an indicator of trophic positioning and carbon stable isotope (δ13C) values as a habitat variable. Turtles were hand-captured across an 8 yr period (2012-2019), which facilitated the distinction of isotopic patterns in both the environment and among individual turtles. Understanding variations in habitat, community dynamics, and dietary consumption allowed us to utilize a 5 point framework to translate isotopic space to foraging niche. We found that the site’s relatively stable environmental conditions allow for isotopic overlap between hawksbill and green turtles despite the specialized feeding strategies each species employs. We also underscore the need to evaluate species-specific tissue turnover estimates as evidenced by the influence of tropical storms on recaptured turtle isotopic signatures. These findings inform our understanding of resource use for these imperiled species at our study site and are useful for future global isotopic comparisons.
Problemas públicos y capacidad institucional de la gestión del agua urbana en Baja California
Authors: Miranda-Gómez Omar , Rivera-Castañeda Patricia
Published: September 2023

Public issues regarding water are defined based on aspects of ownership and institutional responsibility, which has repercussions on their ability to implement effective actions for water resource management. The objective of this paper is to analyze government actions regarding urban water management and explain how they influence its institutional capacity. The methodology employed involved the use of institutional ethnography, which revealed the interactions between water resource management agencies and the priority action plans of governments. The findings recognize that the lack of institutional capacity is influenced by the particular interests of decision-makers who limit the political continuity of previous administrations. It is concluded that each administration addresses public issues according to their own interests, which may not always align with the needs and priorities of society.
Perfect prosthetic heart valve: generative design with machine learning, modeling, and optimization
Authors: Danilov Viacheslav V. , Klyshnikov Kirill Y. , Onishenko Pavel S. , Proutski Alex , Gankin Yuriy , Melgani Farid , Ovcharenko Evgeny A.
Published: September 2023

Majority of modern techniques for creating and optimizing the geometry of medical devices are based on a combination of computer-aided designs and the utility of the finite element method This approach, however, is limited by the number of geometries that can be investigated and by the time required for design optimization. To address this issue, we propose a generative design approach that combines machine learning (ML) methods and optimization algorithms. We evaluate eight different machine learning methods, including decision tree-based and boosting algorithms, neural networks, and ensembles. For optimal design, we investigate six state-of-the-art optimization algorithms, including Random Search, Tree-structured Parzen Estimator, CMA-ES-based algorithm, Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm, Multiobjective Tree-structured Parzen Estimator, and Quasi-Monte Carlo Algorithm. In our study, we apply the proposed approach to study the generative design of a prosthetic heart valve (PHV). The design constraints of the prosthetic heart valve, including spatial requirements, materials, and manufacturing methods, are used as inputs, and the proposed approach produces a final design and a corresponding score to determine if the design is effective. Extensive testing leads to the conclusion that utilizing a combination of ensemble methods in conjunction with a Tree-structured Parzen Estimator or a Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm is the most effective method in generating new designs with a relatively low error rate. Specifically, the Mean Absolute Percentage Error was found to be 11.8% and 10.2% for lumen and peak stress prediction respectively. Furthermore, it was observed that both optimization techniques result in design scores of approximately 95%. From both a scientific and applied perspective, this approach aims to select the most efficient geometry with given input parameters, which can then be prototyped and used for subsequent in vitro experiments. By proposing this approach, we believe it will replace or complement CAD-FEM-based modeling, thereby accelerating the design process and finding better designs within given constraints. The repository, which contains the essential components of the study, including curated source code, dataset, and trained models, is publicly available at https://github.com/ViacheslavDanilov/generative_design.
Research progress of organic liquid electrolyte for sodium ion battery
Authors: Zhang Jia , Li Jianwei , Wang Huaiyou , Wang Min
Published: September 2023

Electrochemical energy storage technology has attracted widespread attention due to its low cost and high energy efficiency in recent years. Among the electrochemical energy storage technologies, sodium ion batteries have been widely focused due to the advantages of abundant sodium resources, low price and similar properties to lithium. In the basic structure of sodium ion battery, the electrolyte determines the electrochemical window and electrochemical performance of the battery, controls the properties of the electrode/electrolyte interface, and affects the safety of sodium ion batteries. Organic liquid electrolytes are widely used because of their low viscosity, high dielectric constant, and compatibility with common cathodes and anodes. However, there are problems such as low oxidation potential, high flammability and safety hazards. Therefore, the development of novel, low-cost, high-performance organic liquid electrolytes is essential for the commercial application of sodium ion batteries. In this paper, the basic requirements and main classifications of organic liquid electrolytes for sodium ion batteries have been introduced. The current research status of organic liquid electrolytes for sodium ion batteries has been highlighted, including compatibility with various types of electrodes and electrochemical properties such as multiplicative performance and cycling performance of electrode materials in electrolytes. The composition, formation mechanism and regulation strategies of interfacial films have been explained. Finally, the development trends of sodium ion battery electrolytes in terms of compatibility with materials, safety and stable interfacial film formation are pointed out in the future.
Pre-clinical investigation of liquid sirolimus for local drug delivery
Authors: Todd Meagan , Liu Linda B. , Saul Justin M. , Yazdani Saami K.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Sirolimus is currently being explored as an alternative drug to paclitaxel for the treatment of peripheral artery disease (PAD). To date, sirolimus has only been used as drug coatings for stents and balloons and no studies have yet demonstrated the delivery of sirolimus in liquid form. The purpose of this pilot study was to investigate the feasibility of the delivery of liquid sirolimus into arterial segments in a benchtop peripheral artery bioreactor.

Methods

The feasibility to deliver liquid therapy was first tested on four drug delivery devices using a fluorescently tagged liquid drug and an ex vivo porcine artery benchtop model. The four devices included the Bullfrog micro-infusion device, ClearWay RX catheter, Occlusion perfusion catheter (OPC), and the targeted adjustable pharmaceutical administration system (TAPAS). Penetration of the fluorescently tagged drug was measured via microscopic imaging and quantification of the depth of drug penetration into all device-treated tissue. Based on the penetration outcome, we then selected a single device to deliver liquid sirolimus into the ex vivo porcine artery model undergoing physiological flow and pressure conditions. The liquid sirolimus-treated arteries were collected from the ex vivo bioreactor at 1- and 24-hour post-delivery and arterial drug retention analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Fluorescent microscopy demonstrated that drug delivery with the OPC had greater drug penetration into the medial wall as compared to other devices (OPC: 234 ± 161 µm; TAPAS: 127 ± 68 µm; ClearWay: 118 ± 77 µm; Bullfrog: 2.12 ± 3.78 µm; p = 0.098). The results of the ex vivo flow-circuit bench top model showed that the OPC device successfully delivered the liquid sirolimus at 1-hour (5.17 ± 4.48 ng/mg) and 24-hour (0.78 ± 0.55 ng/mg).

Conclusions

These results demonstrate for the first time the ability to deliver liquid sirolimus directly to the medial layer of an artery via a liquid delivery catheter.
Temporal change in eruption style during the basaltic explosive An’ei eruption of the Izu-Oshima volcano, Japan: insights from stratigraphy and chemical composition analyses
Authors: Ikenaga Yuya , Maeno Fukashi , Yasuda Atsushi
Published: September 2023

Basaltic eruptions sometimes show an explosive and complex nature; thus, clarifying the sequence and controlling parameters is essential for understanding their causes. The An’ei eruption of the Izu-Oshima volcano during 1777–1792 was a complex basaltic eruption producing lava flows, pyroclastic falls, and ash plumes. We reconstructed the transition of the eruption style based on geological data combined with comparisons with data from historical documents and used chemical analyses to develop a magma plumbing model. The An’ei eruption started in August 1777 with scoria ejection. The scoria deposit was classified into Units A–C. Unit A scoria was produced by early weak explosions and more intense subsequent explosions. Unit B scoria marked a return to weak plumes before the summit eruption reached its climactic phase in November 1778 and explosively ejected Unit C scoria. Several lava flows were also effused from the foot of the scoria cone during these periods of scoria ejection. After a 5-year hiatus, the eruption ultimately shifted to persistent, weak ash ejection and pyroclastic surges. The tephra volumes of Units A, B, and C were estimated at 1.9–4.3 × 107, 0.6–4.5 × 106, and 1.3–3.2 × 107 m3, respectively. Associated column heights of 8–11, 3–10, and 9–12 km were obtained for Units A, B, and C, respectively, resulting in sub-Plinian classification. Chemical analyses have shown that the plagioclase phenocryst content increased as the eruption progressed. The transition from relatively weak activity with Strombolian and sub-Plinian explosions, caused by aphyric magma, to short-period activity with more intense sub-Plinian explosions, caused by porphyritic magma, can be explained by evacuation of magma from multiple reservoirs with different contents of plagioclase phenocrysts. Simultaneous lava flows that have different petrological features from those of the scoria eruptions also suggest multiple magma reservoirs and pathways. This view of the temporal change in eruptive style, corresponding to change in magma type, is essential for understanding the eruptive processes of large-scale basaltic eruptions of the Izu-Oshima volcano and contributes to clarifying the nature and hazards of basaltic eruptions which turn into explosive activities in general.
Engaging large classes of higher education students: a combination of spaced learning and team-based learning
Authors: Carlos Vânia , Rodrigues Mário , Matos Bárbara , Gonçalves Lurdes , Ribeiro Fernando , Fardilha Margarida
Published: September 2023

We are in an era where keeping students focused and interested can be challenging. Furthermore, it is relevant, in avoiding students dropping out and increasing students’ achievements, to research how student engagement can be nurtured and how this aspect is influenced by teacher attitude and the teaching and learning (T and L) approaches. With the purpose of engaging a large biochemistry class of first-year students (n= 170 in the pilot study andn= 147 in the full project) from the Biomedical Sciences degree at the University of Aveiro in Portugal, a combination of two different learning methodologies was implemented: Team-based Learning (TBL) and Spaced Learning (SL). The main objectives of this pedagogical innovation were to promote collaboration between students, keep students engaged throughout the semester, and keep the teacher satisfied through the participation of students in class and positive feedback. A typical class involved various steps which combined different facets of TBL and SL: a bibliography was provided one week in advance to the students for them to get familiarized with it; in class, the students answered an individual quiz, followed by a group quiz; the next step was solving a problem. Meanwhile, an SL break occurred in which students did distracting activities (usually physical activities). Lastly, a short seminar in the form of a Q & A occurred to clarify any doubts. The assessment of this class involved different individual and group components. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected through focus group interviews, questionnaires, and observation techniques. After analyzing the results, in general, we can conclude that students seem to prefe learning with TBL and SL than with traditional methodologies. Students emphasized the SL as a positive strategy. Furthermore, they acknowledge that teacher attitude was crucial for their engagement.
Creating an equitable and inclusive STEM classroom: a qualitative meta-synthesis of approaches and practices in higher education
Authors: Duncan Victoria L. , Holt Emily A. , Keenan Susan M.
Published: September 2023

How can Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) faculty integrate a humanistic approach to create environments where students do not feel marginalized? Changes are necessary to address the historically exclusive climate and systemic oppressive classroom policies and classroom practices dominated by White, patriarchal, Eurocentric perspectives pervasive in many STEM higher education classrooms. By incorporating approaches and practices documented in the literature over time and across multiple STEM disciplines, faculty can create equitable and inclusive (EI) classrooms. However, the challenge for individual faculty members is consolidating the information to identify fundamental elements necessary for establishing EI spaces. This project addresses that challenge by conducting a comprehensive meta-synthesis of higher education literature to identify themes for what constitutes an EI classroom and recommendations for how faculty can facilitate one. The dataset includes 61 articles from 277 authors and 48 unique journals and reflects a timeframe of January 1995–June 2021. Our findings are organized into four key concepts, indicating that EI pedagogies related to the affective, cognitive, and metacognitive categories of learning are vital to an equitable and inclusive classroom. However, the essential finding of this analysis was the importance of the fourth key concept, faculty cultural competency and elements related to the climate and structure of the classroom, referred to as Faculty Agency and Action (FAA). The results of this meta-synthesis were compared to the most frequently cited seminal works within the field, demonstrating that although these individual works contain most, they do not include all of the themes indicated by this study and, in some cases, over- or underrepresent some of the topics discussed. As mirrored in the most frequently cited works and the findings of this meta-synthesis, it takes incorporating classroom-focused approaches and faculty’s reflective resolve to understand and change how dominant and privileged identities are reflected for classrooms to be equitable and inclusive in STEM.
Low-income transfer engineering undergraduates’ benefits and costs of online learning during COVID-19
Authors: Lee Hye Rin , Yang Kaidan , Rutherford Teomara , Ramirez Kevin F. , Eccles Jacquelynne S.
Published: September 2023

Online courses were a common and growing format for higher education even before the COVID-19 pandemic, but selection effects made it difficult to understand and generalize about low-income transfer engineering students’ perceptions regarding online course experiences. However, the forced transition from face-to-face courses to online courses as a result of COVID-19 provided researchers and educators the opportunity to examine low-income transfer engineering students’ online learning experiences without selection effects. Using a naturalistic method, the present study examined low-income transfer engineering students’ (N = 7) communicated perceived benefits and costs of online learning during the pandemic. Analysis using inductive coding found three overarching themes of benefits and costs:benefits and costs related to the learning environment,benefits and costs related to the format of instruction, andbenefits and costs related to external factors. Students named studying at their own pace as the most frequently occurring benefit of online learning. On the other hand, difficulty self-regulating was the most frequently named cost of online learning. Implications for theory, practice, and future work are discussed.
AI-assisted analysis of content, structure, and sentiment in MOOC discussion forums
Authors: Yee Michael , Roy Anindya , Perdue Meghan , Cuevas Consuelo , Quigley Keegan , Bell Ana , Rungta Ahaan , Miyagawa Shigeru
Published: September 2023

Discussion forums are a key component of online learning platforms, allowing learners to ask for help, provide help to others, and connect with others in the learning community. Analyzing patterns of forum usage and their association with course outcomes can provide valuable insight into how learners actually use discussion forums, and suggest strategies for shaping forum dynamics to improve learner experiences and outcomes. However, the fine-grained coding of forum posts required for this kind of analysis is a manually intensive process that can be challenging for large datasets, e.g., those that result from popular MOOCs. To address this issue, we propose an AI-assisted labeling process that uses advanced natural language processing techniques to train machine learning models capable of labeling a large dataset while minimizing human annotation effort. We fine-tune pretrained transformer-based deep learning models on category, structure, and emotion classification tasks. The transformer-based models outperform a more traditional baseline that uses support vector machines and a bag-of-words input representation. The transformer-based models also perform better when we augment the input features for an individual post with additional context from the post's thread (e.g., the thread title). We validate model quality through a combination of internal performance metrics, human auditing, and common-sense checks. For our Python MOOC dataset, we find that annotating approximately 1% of the forum posts achieves performance levels that are reliable for downstream analysis. Using labels from the validated AI models, we investigate the association of learner and course attributes with thread resolution and various forms of forum participation. We find significant differences in how learners of different age groups, gender, and course outcome status ask for help, provide help, and make posts with emotional (positive or negative) sentiment.
Challenges in practical button cell testing for hydrogen production from high temperature electrolysis of water
Authors: Priest Cameron M. , Gomez Joshua Y. , Kane Nicholas J. , Hartvigsen Jeremy L. , Wang Lucun , Ding Dong , Casteel Micah J. , Stewart Frederick F. , Wu Gang
Published: September 2023

High temperature electrolysis of water using solid oxide electrochemical cells (SOEC) is a promising technology for hydrogen production with high energy efficiency and may promote decarbonization when coupled with renewable energy sources and excess heat from nuclear reactors. Over the past several decades there have been extensive scientific and engineering studies on cell materials and degradation behaviors that have greatly improved current density, decreased total resistance, and lowered degradation rates. Although the technology is now at a near-commercial level, maintaining consistency in cell testing and minimizing variance in practical testing environments is an often overlooked but crucial topic. To promote high quality data collection, testing procedures and balance of plant component details are extremely important to consider. This work discusses some key factors affecting the reproducibility of practical SOEC testing on the button cell level, namely, current collection layers, cell sealing procedures, the reliability of steam and hydrogen delivery systems, cell testing fixture design, and reduction procedures. To provide a baseline and a level of standardization for the SOEC community, this work also discloses details of the standard operating procedure and techniques adopted for o-SOEC testing at Idaho National Laboratory (INL).
Metabolite profiles and DNA methylation in metabolic syndrome: a two-sample, bidirectional Mendelian randomization
Authors: Jones Alana C. , Ament Zsuzsanna , Patki Amit , Chaudhary Ninad S. , Srinivasasainagendra Vinodh , Kijpaisalratana Naruchorn , Absher Devin M. , Tiwari Hemant K. , Arnett Donna K. , Kimberly W. Taylor , Irvin Marguerite R.
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Previous ‘-omics’ studies have identified dysregulated serum metabolites and aberrant DNA methylation in the setting of MetS. However, the relationship between the metabolome and epigenome have not been elucidated. In this study, we identified serum metabolites associated with MetS and DNA methylation, and we conducted bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) to assess causal relationships between metabolites and methylation.

Methods: We leveraged metabolomic and genomic data from a national United States cohort of older adults (REGARDS), as well as metabolomic, epigenomic, and genomic data from a family-based study of hypertension (HyperGEN). We conducted metabolite profiling for MetS in REGARDS using weighted logistic regression models and validated them in HyperGEN. Validated metabolites were selected for methylation studies which fit linear mixed models between metabolites and six CpG sites previously linked to MetS. Statistically significant metabolite-CpG pairs were selected for two-sample, bidirectional MR.

Results: Forward MR indicated that glucose and serine metabolites were causal on CpG methylation near CPT1A [B(SE): −0.003 (0.002), p = 0.028 and B(SE): 0.029 (0.011), p = 0.030, respectively] and that serine metabolites were causal on ABCG1 [B(SE): −0.008(0.003), p = 0.006] and SREBF1 [B(SE): −0.009(0.004), p = 0.018] methylation, which suggested a protective effect of serine. Reverse MR showed a bidirectional relationship between cg06500161 (ABCG1) and serine [B(SE): −1.534 (0.668), p = 0.023].

Discussion: The metabolome may contribute to the relationship between MetS and epigenetic modifications.
Monoclonal antibodies neutralizing alpha-hemolysin, bicomponent leukocidins, and clumping factor A protected against Staphylococcus aureus-induced acute circulatory failure in a mechanically ventilated rabbit model of hyperdynamic septic shock
Authors: Nguyen Nhu T. Q. , Doan Thien N. M. , Sato Kei , Tkaczyk Christine , Sellman Bret R. , Diep Binh An
Published: September 2023

Background

Patients with septic shock caused by Staphylococcus aureus have mortality rates exceeding 50%, despite appropriate antibiotic therapy. Our objectives were to establish a rabbit model of S. aureus septic shock and to determine whether a novel immunotherapy can prevent or halt its natural disease progression.

Methods

Anesthetized rabbits were ventilated with lung-protective low-tidal volume, instrumented for advanced hemodynamic monitoring, and characterized for longitudinal changes in acute myocardial dysfunction by echocardiography and sepsis-associated biomarkers after S. aureus intravenous challenge. To demonstrate the potential utility of this hyperdynamic septic shock model for preclinical drug development, rabbits were randomized for prophylaxis with anti-Hla/Luk/ClfA monoclonal antibody combination that neutralizes alpha-hemolysin (Hla), the bicomponent pore-forming leukocidins (Luk) including Panton-Valentine leukocidin, leukocidin ED, and gamma-hemolysin, and clumping factor A (ClfA), or an irrelevant isotype-matched control IgG (c-IgG), and then challenged with S. aureus.

Results

Rabbits challenged with S. aureus, but not those with saline, developed a hyperdynamic state of septic shock characterized by elevated cardiac output (CO), increased stroke volume (SV) and reduced systemic vascular resistance (SVR), which was followed by a lethal hypodynamic state characterized by rapid decline in mean arterial pressure (MAP), increased central venous pressure, reduced CO, reduced SV, elevated SVR, and reduced left-ventricular ejection fraction, thereby reproducing the hallmark clinical features of human staphylococcal septic shock. In this model, rabbits pretreated with anti-Hla/Luk/ClfA mAb combination had 69% reduction in mortality when compared to those pretreated with c-IgG (P<0.001). USA300-induced acute circulatory failure—defined as >70% decreased in MAP from pre-infection baseline—occurred in only 20% (2/10) of rabbits pretreated with anti-Hla/Luk/ClfA mAb combination compared to 100% (9/9) of those pretreated with c-IgG. Prophylaxis with anti-Hla/Luk/ClfA mAb combination halted progression to lethal hypodynamic shock, as evidenced by significant protection against the development of hyperlactatemia, hypocapnia, hyperkalemia, leukopenia, neutropenia, monocytopenia, lymphopenia, as well as biomarkers associated with acute myocardial injury.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate the potential utility of a mechanically ventilated rabbit model that reproduced hallmark clinical features of hyperdynamic septic shock and the translational potential of immunotherapy targeting S. aureus virulence factors for the prevention of staphylococcal septic shock.