bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular and haematological investigations on Anaplasma ovis infection in goats in Ahvaz, Iran: Insights into infection rate, haemolytic effect and breed influences
Authors: Abbas Zadeh Maryam , Hamidinejat Hossein , Nikvand Ali Abbas , Jalali Seyedeh Missagh , Bahrami Somayeh
Published: March 2024

Background

Anaplasma ovis (A. ovis) is the predominant causative agent of anaplasmosis in goats and sheep in most tropical and subtropical regions of the world. However, there is considerable variation in reported infection rates, breed susceptibility, and controversial findings regarding the haemolytic effects of A. ovis infection in goats.

Objectives

Thus, we investigated the molecular and haematological aspects of A. ovis infection in goats from Ahvaz city.

Methods

One hundred and fifty apparently healthy goats (74 blacks and 76 Najdi goats) were randomly sampled from six flocks in the Ahvaz suburb during ticks’ activity season. Haematological evaluation, smear microscopic (SM) examination and PCR assay were performed to assess A. ovis infection. Additionally, the percentage of parasitemia was determined from blood smears.

Results

SM examination revealed that 25.7% of the goats displayed erythrocyte Anaplasma‐like inclusion bodies. PCR analysis indicated that 54% of the goats were positive for A. ovis infection (44.6% of blacks and 63.2% of Najdi goats). No significant difference in haematological values was observed between healthy and infected goats based on PCR testing. However, a significant difference in haematological indices was observed between the group with parasitemia level of 0.01–0.02% (SM and PCR positive) compared to the healthy goats (SM and PCR negative), particularly concerning Hb, PCV and RBC count (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

When the parasitemia exceeds 0.01%, A. ovis infection may disrupt haematological parameters in infected goats. The high prevalence of A. ovis infection (54%) among the studied goats underscores the importance of giving special attention to implementing necessary measures for disease control in the Ahvaz suburb.
Cautions and limitations of emergent pedagogies in leadership development
Authors: Weng John , Werner Linnette
Published: March 2024

While emergent pedagogies offer potentially high impact, the risks in using such pedagogies can be significant when not handled carefully. This article explores the cautions and limitations of emergent‐based pedagogies such as case‐in‐point, intentional emergence, and group relations. Leadership educators who use emergent‐based approaches need to be well‐versed in how to hold the heat in the classroom, even when the heat may be directed at them. The learning and impact from the pedagogy may sometimes take months or even years to be felt. As such, considerations like administration buy‐in are necessary in addition to the adequate development of the facilitator. This article explores resources to develop educators in their use of emergent pedagogies, including hallmark readings and trainings that are available to those interested in learning more.
Between a rock and a hard place: anticoagulation management for ECMO
Authors: Buchtele Nina , Levy Jerrold H
Published: March 2024

Anticoagulation is an essential component of optimal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) management. Unfractionated heparin is still the anticoagulant of choice in most centers due to longstanding familiarity with the agent. Disadvantages include alterations in drug responses due to its capability to bind multiple heparin-binding proteins that compete with antithrombin and the potential for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. In such cases, direct thrombin inhibitors are the treatment of choice but pose difficulties in monitoring due to the limited experience and target ranges for non-aPTT-guided management (aPTT: activated partial thromboplastin time). The current trend toward low-dose anticoagulation, especially for venovenous ECMO, is supported by data associating bleeding complications with mortality but not thromboembolic events, which include circuit thrombosis. However, only prospective data will provide appropriate answers to how to individualize anticoagulation, transfusions, and bleeding management which is currently only supported by expert opinion. Empiric therapy for ECMO patients based on laboratory coagulation alone should always be critically questioned. In summary, only collaboration and future studies of coagulation management during ECMO will help us to make this life-saving therapy that has become part of daily life of the intensivist even safer and more effective. Until then, a fundamental understanding of coagulation and bleeding management, as well as pearls and pitfalls of monitoring, is essential to optimize anticoagulation during ECMO. This article is freely available.
Physicochemical properties and ellagic acid accumulation in Tenebrio molitor larvae fed with pomegranate peel-enriched media
Authors: Gulsunoglu-Konuskan Zehra , Dag Sezer
Published: March 2024

Edible insects are a promising and sustainable food source for humans due to their low environmental footprint, high feed conversion ratio, and high protein content. Furthermore, the nutritional profile of the edible insects can be modified depending on the provided diet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance, proximate composition, and ellagic acid accumulation in Tenebriomolitor larvae fed on corn flour media enriched with pomegranate peel. Corn flour and pomegranate peel were mixed in a 1:1 ratio (w/w) (PCM) and 50 T.molitor larvae were added to each jar. After 12 days of rearing, the weight of T.molitor larvae fed on PCM and the control increased by 88.35% and 58.6%, respectively, compared to their initial values. An increase in carbohydrate, protein and ash contents, along with a decrease in lipid content, was observed in the control diet after 12 days of feeding compared to the initial larvae. Conversely, the PCM diet exhibited an increase in ash and carbohydrate contents and a decrease in lipid and protein contents after 12 days of feeding compared to the initial larvae. Total phenolic content (TPC) of T.molitor larvae did not significantly vary when fed with the control group, while it increased on the fourth and twelfth days for larvae fed with the PCM diet. The CUPRAC antioxidant activity of larvae also increased on the fourth day of feeding on the PCM diet. Ellagic acid was not detected in larvae fed with control and initially, it accumulated in T.molitor larvae fed with PCM after 8 and 12 days of rearing, with concentrations of 92.54 and 115.6 µg/g larvae, respectively. This study highlights the importance of diet in changing the phenolic profile of T.molitor larvae, which can be used as a functional food ingredient to obtain value-added products from agricultural wastes.
Retrospective Study on Optimizing Breast Augmentation Outcomes in Transgender Patients: A Comprehensive Analysis of Tumescent Local Anesthesia Technique
Authors: Tettamanzi Matilde , Ziani Federico , Rodio Manuela , Arrica Giovanni , Muratore Giovanni , Manconi Anna , Trignano Claudia , Beatrici Edoardo , Liperi Corrado , Rubino Corrado , Trignano Emilio
Published: March 2024

Background

Tumescent local anesthesia (TLA) involves the infusion of a saline solution containing lidocaine and epinephrine into tissues to achieve localized anesthesia and vasoconstriction. While the use of TLA in sub-glandular augmentation mammoplasty has been documented, we present a modified TLA approach for primary sub-muscular breast augmentation in transgender patients based on our experience over the past years.

Methods

Between the years 2014 and 2021, we performed primary sub-muscular breast augmentation on 20 transgender patients under TLA and conscious sedation. The tumescent solution consisted of 25 mL of 2% lidocaine, 8 mEq of sodium bicarbonate, and 1 mL of epinephrine (1 mg/1 mL) in 1000 mL of 0.9% saline solution. Initially, the solution was infiltrated between the pectoral fascia and the mammary gland, and subsequently, during the surgery, under the pectoralis major muscle.

Results

The average volume of tumescent solution infiltrated during TLA was 740 mL per breast. There were no reports of adrenaline or lidocaine toxicity, and no cases required a conversion to general anesthesia. Patients experienced no pain or discomfort during the preoperative infiltration or surgical procedure.

Reoperations due to short-term complications never occurred. We observed a major complication rate of 5%, represented by 1 hematoma. Long-term complications comprised one case of implant dislocation and one occurrence of dystrophic scar formation. No cases of capsular contracture needing reoperation, asymmetry, and implant rupture occurred. In total, one individual (5%) requested larger implants. Follow-up time ranged from 30 days to 1 years.

Conclusions

Overall, augmentation mammaplasty is a valuable choice for transgender women aiming to enhance their feminine characteristics and alleviate gender dysphoria. It is imperative for patients to conduct thorough research, grasp the potential pros and cons, and consult experienced healthcare professionals in transgender care. Additionally, tumescent local anesthesia (TLA) has proven to be a safe and efficient method for sub-muscular breast augmentation, providing effective pain control with minimal postoperative complications, resulting in high patient satisfaction.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Clinical outcomes and perioperative morbidity and mortality following segmental resections of the colon for Crohn’s colitis
Authors: Kappenberger Alina-Sophie , Schardey Josefine , Wirth Ulrich , Kühn Florian , Werner Jens , Zimmermann Petra
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease of a multifactorial pathogenesis. Recently numerous genetic variants linked to an aggressive phenotype were identified, leading to a progress in therapeutic options, resulting in a decreased necessity for surgery. Nevertheless, surgery is often inevitable. The aim of the study was to evaluate possible risk factors for postoperative complications and disease recurrence specifically after colonic resections for CD.

Patients and methods

A total of 241 patients who underwent colonic and ileocaecal resections for CD at our instiution between 2008 and 2018 were included. All data was extracted from clinical charts.

Results

Major complications occurred in 23.8% of all patients. Patients after colonic resections showed a significantly higher rate of major postoperative complications compared to patients after ICR (p =  < 0.0001). The most common complications after colonic resections were postoperative bleeding (22.2%), the need for revision surgery (27.4%) and ICU (17.2%) or hospital readmission (15%). As risk factors for the latter, we identified time interval between admission and surgery (p = 0.015) and the duration of the surgery (p = 0.001). Isolated distal resections had a higher risk for revision surgery and a secondary stoma (p = 0.019). Within the total study population, previous bowel resections (p = 0.037) were identified as independent risk factors for major perioperative complications.

Conclusion

The results indicate that both a complex surgical site and a complex surgical procedure lead to a higher perioperative morbidity in colonic resections for Crohn’s colitis.
Single versus double Hem-o-lok clips to secure the apendiceal stump during laparoscopic appendectomy: a prospective randomized multicentric clinical trial
Authors: Aday Ulaş , Çetin Erman , Kafadar Mehmet Tolga , Oğuz Abdullah , Bahadır Mehmet Veysi , Ülger Burak Veli , Gedik Ercan , Girgin Sadullah , Yılmaz Mehmet
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Polymeric clips (Hem-o-lok ligation system) are now widely used to securing the base of the appendix during laparoscopic appendectomy. Studies comparing the use of single or double hem-o-lok clips are limited. The aim of this study was to compare the reliability of a single hem-o-lok clips with a double hem-o-lok clips for closure of an appendiceal stump.

Methods

This prospective randomized study includes patients from two centers who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy with the diagnosis of appendicitis between September 2020 and March 2023. Demographic, operative and clinical outcomes of the use of single or double hem-o-lok clips for closure of the appendiceal stump were compared. Factors affecting long postoperative hospital stay were investigated using univariate and multivariate analyzes.

Results

One hundred forty two (48.3%) patients in the single hem-o-lok arm and 152 (51.7%) patients in the double hem-o-lok arm were included in the analysis.The shortest operative time was noted in the single hem-o-lok group (52.1 ± 19.9 versus 61.6 ± 24.9 min, p < 0.001). The median hospital stay was 1 day (range 1–10) in the single hem-o-lok group and 1 day (range 1–12) in the double hem-o-lok group, and was shorter in the single hem-o-lok arm (1.61 ± 1.56 vs 1.84 ± 1.69, p = 0.019). Based on multivariate analysis, drain placement was identified as an independent predictive factor for long hospital stay.

Conclusions

The use of single hem-o-lok clips for appendiceal stump closure during laparoscopic appendectomy is safe and effective.

Trial registration NCT04387370 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Digital decision support for structural improvement of melanoma tumor boards: using standard cases to optimize workflow
Authors: Hoier David , Groß-Ophoff-Müller Carolin , Franklin Cindy , Hallek Michael , von Stebut Esther , Elter Thomas , Mauch Cornelia , Kreuzberg Nicole , Koll Philipp
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Choosing optimal cancer treatment is challenging, and certified cancer centers must present all patients in multidisciplinary tumor boards (MDT). Our aim was to develop a decision support system (DSS) to provide treatment recommendations for apparently simple cases already at conference registration and to classify these as “standard cases”. According to certification requirements, discussion of standard cases is optional and would thus allow more time for complex cases.

Methods

We created a smartphone query that simulated a tumor conference registration and requested all information needed to provide a recommendation. In total, 111 out of 705 malignant melanoma cases discussed at a skin cancer center from 2017 to 2020 were identified as potential standard cases, for which a digital twin recommendation was then generated by DSS.

Results

The system provided reliable advice in all 111 cases and showed 97% concordance of MDT and DSS for therapeutic recommendations, regardless of tumor stage. Discrepancies included two cases (2%) where DSS advised discussions at MDT and one case (1%) with deviating recommendation due to advanced patient age.

Conclusions

Our work aimed not to replace clinical expertise but to alleviate MDT workload and enhance focus on complex cases. Overall, our DSS proved to be a suitable tool for identifying standard cases as such, providing correct treatment recommendations, and thus reducing the time burden of tumor conferences in favor for the comprehensive discussion of complex cases. The aim is to implement the DSS in routine tumor board software for further qualitative assessment of its impact on oncological care.
Clinical and genetic architecture of a large cohort with auditory neuropathy
Authors: Wang Hongyang , Guan Liping , Wu Xiaonan , Guan Jing , Li Jin , Li Nan , Wu Kaili , Gao Ya , Bing Dan , Zhang Jianguo , Lan Lan , Shi Tao , Li Danyang , Wang Wenjia , Xie Linyi , Xiong Fen , Shi Wei , Zhao Lijian , Wang Dayong , Yin Ye , Wang Qiuju
Published: March 2024

Auditory neuropathy (AN) is a unique type of language developmental disorder, with no precise rate of genetic contribution that has been deciphered in a large cohort. In a retrospective cohort of 311 patients with AN, pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants of 23 genes were identified in 98 patients (31.5% in 311 patients), and 14 genes were mutated in two or more patients. Among subgroups of patients with AN, the prevalence of pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants was 54.4% and 56.2% in trios and families, while 22.9% in the cases with proband-only; 45.7% and 25.6% in the infant and non-infant group; and 33.7% and 0% in the bilateral and unilateral AN cases. Most of the OTOF gene (96.6%, 28/29) could only be identified in the infant group, while the AIFM1 gene could only be identified in the non-infant group; other genes such as ATP1A3 and OPA1 were identified in both infant and non-infant groups. In conclusion, genes distribution of AN, with the most common genes being OTOF and AIFM1, is totally different from other sensorineural hearing loss. The subgroups with different onset ages showed different genetic spectrums, so did bilateral and unilateral groups and sporadic and familial or trio groups.
Comparing a virtual reality head-mounted display to on-screen three-dimensional visualization and two-dimensional computed tomography data for training in decision making in hepatic surgery: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Preukschas Anas Amin , Wise Philipp Anthony , Bettscheider Lisa , Pfeiffer Micha , Wagner Martin , Huber Matthias , Golriz Mohammad , Fischer Lars , Mehrabi Arianeb , Rössler Fabian , Speidel Stefanie , Hackert Thilo , Müller-Stich Beat Peter , Nickel Felix , Kenngott Hannes Götz
Published: March 2024

Objective

Evaluation of the benefits of a virtual reality (VR) environment with a head-mounted display (HMD) for decision-making in liver surgery.

Background

Training in liver surgery involves appraising radiologic images and considering the patient’s clinical information. Accurate assessment of 2D-tomography images is complex and requires considerable experience, and often the images are divorced from the clinical information. We present a comprehensive and interactive tool for visualizing operation planning data in a VR environment using a head-mounted-display and compare it to 3D visualization and 2D-tomography.

Methods

Ninety medical students were randomized into three groups (1:1:1 ratio). All participants analyzed three liver surgery patient cases with increasing difficulty. The cases were analyzed using 2D-tomography data (group “2D”), a 3D visualization on a 2D display (group “3D”) or within a VR environment (group “VR”). The VR environment was displayed using the “Oculus Rift ™” HMD technology. Participants answered 11 questions on anatomy, tumor involvement and surgical decision-making and 18 evaluative questions (Likert scale).

Results

Sum of correct answers were significantly higher in the 3D (7.1 ± 1.4, p < 0.001) and VR (7.1 ± 1.4, p < 0.001) groups than the 2D group (5.4 ± 1.4) while there was no difference between 3D and VR (p = 0.987). Times to answer in the 3D (6:44 ± 02:22 min, p < 0.001) and VR (6:24 ± 02:43 min, p < 0.001) groups were significantly faster than the 2D group (09:13 ± 03:10 min) while there was no difference between 3D and VR (p = 0.419). The VR environment was evaluated as most useful for identification of anatomic anomalies, risk and target structures and for the transfer of anatomical and pathological information to the intraoperative situation in the questionnaire.

Conclusions

A VR environment with 3D visualization using a HMD is useful as a surgical training tool to accurately and quickly determine liver anatomy and tumor involvement in surgery.
Plane crack problems within strain gradient elasticity and mixed finite element implementation
Authors: Chirkov Aleksandr Yu , Nazarenko Lidiia , Altenbach Holm
Published: March 2024

An alternative approach is proposed and applied to solve boundary value problems within the strain gradient elasticity theory. A mixed variation formulation of the finite element method (FEM) based on the concept of the Galerkin method is used. To construct finite-dimensional subspaces separate approximations of displacements, deformations, stresses, and their gradients are implemented by choosing the different sets of piecewise polynomial basis functions, interrelated by the stability condition of the mixed FEM approximation. This significantly simplifies the pre-requirement for approximating functions to belong to class C1 and allows one to use the simplest triangular finite elements with a linear approximation of displacements under uniform or near-uniform triangulation conditions. Global unknowns in a discrete problem are nodal displacements, while the strains and stresses and their gradients are treated as local unknowns. The conditions of existence, uniqueness, and continuous dependence of the solution on the problem’s initial data are formulated for discrete equations of mixed FEM. These are solved by a modified iteration procedure, where the global stiffness matrix for classical elasticity problems is treated as a preconditioning matrix with fictitious elastic moduli. This avoids the need to form a global stiffness matrix for the problem of strain gradient elasticity since it is enough to calculate only the residual vector in the current approximation. A set of modeling plane crack problems is solved. The obtained solutions agree with the results available in the relevant literature. Good convergence is achieved by refining the mesh for all scale parameters. All three problems under study exhibit specific qualitative features characterizing strain gradient solutions namely crack stiffness increase with length scale parameter and cusp-like closure effect.
Spread patterns of COVID-19 in European countries: hybrid deep learning model for prediction and transmission analysis
Authors: Utku Anıl , Akcayol M. Ali
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted healthcare systems and economies worldwide, leading to the implementation of travel restrictions and social measures. Efforts such as vaccination campaigns, testing, and surveillance have played a crucial role in containing the spread of the virus and safeguarding public health. There needs to be more research exploring the transmission dynamics of COVID-19, particularly within European nations. Therefore, the primary objective of this research was to examine the spread patterns of COVID-19 across various European countries. Doing so makes it possible to implement preventive measures, allocate resources, and optimize treatment strategies based on projected case and mortality rates. For this purpose, a hybrid prediction model combining CNN and LSTM models was developed. The performance of this hybrid model was compared against several other models, including CNN, k-NN, LR, LSTM, MLP, RF, SVM, and XGBoost. The empirical findings revealed that the CNN-LSTM hybrid model exhibited superior performance compared to alternative models in effectively predicting the transmission of COVID-19 within European nations. Furthermore, examining the peak of case and death dates provided insights into the dynamics of COVID-19 transmission among European countries. Chord diagrams were drawn to analyze the inter-country transmission patterns of COVID-19 over 5-day and 14-day intervals.
Assessing the adoption of the Yavuz Battleship application in the mixed reality environment using the technology acceptance model
Authors: Kara Murat , Çakıcı Alp Neşe
Published: March 2024

This study concentrates on developing a mixed reality (MR) app for the historic ship Yavuz Battleship, also known as “SMS Goeben,” and assessing its acceptance using the technology acceptance model (TAM). Mixed reality blends real and virtual environments to create novel spatial experiences, bridging the gap between the virtual and real worlds. This technology enables designers to craft immersive, interactive environments that enhance users' perception of physical reality. The study employs a multi-stage methodology, including historical research, 3D model creation, digital information integration, Unity program transfer, MR environment development with the Mixed Reality Toolkit (MRTK), and implementation as a Microsoft Hololens 2 app. TAM is employed to gauge MR acceptance. Evaluation results affirm the Yavuz MR app's TAM alignment, providing structural support for similar architectural science inquiries. The research underscores the need to explore MR's architectural applications and TAM's role in measuring MR acceptance.
Age, origin and tectonic controls on rapid recent exhumation of the Sibela Mountains, Bacan, Indonesia
Authors: Hennig-Breitfeld Juliane , Hall Robert , White Lloyd T. , Breitfeld H. Tim , Forster Marnie A. , Armstrong Richard A. , Kohn Barry P.
Published: March 2024

The Sibela Mountains of the island of Bacan in eastern Indonesia contain one of the Earth’s youngest metamorphic complexes that is now exposed at elevations up to 2000 m. New mica 40Ar/39Ar and apatite (U–Th–Sm)/He data from metamorphic and igneous rocks indicate that these rocks were rapidly exhumed in the Pleistocene (c. 0.7 Ma). Exhumation of the metamorphosed Permo-Triassic basement (c. 249–257 Ma) was accompanied by metamorphism (recorded by schists) as well as partial melting (recorded by c. 1.4 Ma granitic dykes). These processes must have occurred at extremely high cooling and exhumation rates. The rapid exhumation on land was associated with significant subsidence in adjacent basins offshore that reach depths up to 2.4 km. Neogene metamorphic core complexes and other metamorphic complexes are well-known from eastern Indonesia, but they usually record much higher exhumation rates than those reported from older classic metamorphic core complexes found in other parts of the world and require a different formation mechanism. Unlike classic metamorphic core complexes that are characterized by low-angle detachment faults, the Bacan metamorphic rocks were exhumed on steep bounding normal faults forming a rectilinear block pattern. We suggest such complexes are termed metamorphic block complexes (MBC). The Bacan MBC is exceptionally young and like the other east Indonesian complexes was rapidly exhumed during subduction rollback. A flexure formed during arc-arc collision as the Sangihe forearc loaded the Halmahera forearc which reactivated steeply-dipping faults in a rectilinear chocolate block pattern.

Graphical abstract
Optimizing patient outcome in intracranial tumor surgery: a detailed prospective study of adverse events and mortality reduction strategies in neurosurgery
Authors: Lenga Pavlina , Kleineidam Helena , Unterberg Andreas , Dao Trong Philip
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Brain tumor surgery represents a critical and high-risk area within the field of neurosurgery. Our study aims to offer a comprehensive analysis of adverse events (AEs) from a prospectively maintained database at a leading neurosurgical tertiary center, with a specific focus on different types of tumor entities.

Methods

From January 2022 to September 2023, our study focused on adult patients, who underwent surgery for intracranial tumors. Each patient in this demographic was thoroughly assessed for adverse events (AEs) by their attending physicians at discharge. An AE was defined as any event occurring within the first 30 days post-surgery.

Results

A total of 1173 patients with an average age of 57.4 ± 15.3 years underwent surgical procedures. The majority of these surgeries were elective, accounting for 93.4% (1095 out of 1173), while emergency surgeries constituted 13.9% (163 out of 1173). The incidence of surgery-related AEs was relatively low at 12.7%. The most common surgical indications were meningioma and glioma pathologies, representing 31.1% and 28.2% of cases, respectively. Dural leaks occurred in 1.5% of the cases. Postoperative hemorrhage was a significant complication, especially among glioma patients, with ten experiencing postoperative hemorrhage and eight requiring revision surgery. The overall mortality rate stood at 0.8%, corresponding to five patient deaths. Causes of death included massive postoperative bleeding in one patient, pulmonary embolism in two patients, and tumor progression in two others.

Conclusions

Surgical interventions for intracranial neoplasms are inherently associated with a significant risk of adverse events. However, our study’s findings reveal a notably low mortality rate within our patient cohort. This suggests that thorough documentation of AEs, coupled with proactive intervention strategies in neurosurgical practices, can substantially enhance patient outcomes.
Diagnostic value of cone beam computed tomography for root canal morphology assessment – a micro-CT based comparison
Authors: Pires Mariana , Martins Jorge N.R. , Pereira Mário Rito , Vasconcelos Isabel , Costa Rui Pereira da , Duarte Isabel , Ginjeira António
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) as a root canal anatomy diagnostic tool by comparison with micro-CT gold-standard.

Materials and methods

216 two-rooted mandibular molars were first scanned in a CBCT device (200 μm voxel size) and posteriorly in a micro-CT scanner (19.61 μm). The volumes were sequentially screened to classify main root canal anatomy according to Vertucci classification, and for the presence of lateral canals and apical deltas, in both mesial and distal roots.

Results

Both methods revealed a higher prevalence of Vertucci Type II and IV in the mesial root, and Vertucci Type I in the distal root. The percentage of agreement for main root canal anatomy classification between CBCT and micro-CT scores was high (85.2%).

Conclusion

Sensibility to detect both lateral canals and apical deltas with CBCT was low. These results attest to the fact that minor anatomical changes might be difficult to identify with CBCT imaging, hampering its diagnostic value.
VR Designer: enhancing fashion showcases through immersive virtual garment fitting
Authors: Sarakatsanos Orestis , Papazoglou-Chalikias Anastasios , Boikou Machi , Chatzilari Elisavet , Jauk Michaela , Hafliger Ursina , Nikolopoulos Spiros , Kompatsiaris Ioannis
Published: March 2024

This paper introduces a Virtual Reality (VR) application tailored for fashion designers and retailers, transcending traditional garment design and demonstration boundaries by presenting an immersive digital garment showcase within a captivating VR environment. Simulating a virtual retail store, designers navigate freely, selecting from an array of avatar-garment combinations and exploring garments from diverse perspectives. This immersive experience offers designers a precise representation of the final product’s aesthetics, fit, and functionality on the human body. Our application can be considered as a pre-manufacturing layer, that empowers designers and retailers with a precise understanding of how the actual garment will look and behave. Evaluation involved comprehensive feedback from both professional and undergraduate fashion designers, gathered through usability testing sessions.
Intercomparison of multi-GNSS signals characteristics acquired by a low-cost receiver connected to various low-cost antennas
Authors: Marut Grzegorz , Hadas Tomasz , Nosek Jakub
Published: March 2024

With the increasing number of low-cost GNSS antennas available on the market, there is a lack of comprehensive analysis and intercomparison of their performance. Moreover, multi-GNSS observation noises are not well recognized for low-cost receivers. This study characterizes the quality of GNSS signals acquired by low-cost GNSS receivers equipped with eight types of antennas in terms of signal acquisition, multipath error and receiver noise. The differences between various types of low-cost antennas are non-negligible, with helical antennas underperforming in every respect. Compared with a geodetic-grade station, GPS and Galileo signals acquired by low-cost receivers are typically weaker by 3–9 dB-Hz. While the L1, E1 and E5b signals are well-tracked, only 72% and 86% of L2 signals are acquired for GPS and GLONASS, respectively. The signal noise for pseudoranges varies from 0.12 m for Galileo E5b to over 0.30 m for GLONASS L1 and L2, whereas for carrier-phase observations it oscillates around 1 mm for both GPS and Galileo frequencies, but exceeds 3 mm for both GLONASS frequencies. Antenna phase center offsets (PCOs) vary significantly between frequencies and constellations, and do not agree between two antennas of the same type by up to 25 mm in the vertical component. After a field calibration a of low-cost antenna and consistent application of PCOs, the horizontal and vertical accuracy is improved to a few millimeter and a few centimeter level for the multi-GNSS processing with double-differenced and undifferenced approach, respectively. Last but not least, we demonstrate that PPP-AR is possible also with low-cost GNSS receivers and antennas, and improves the precision and convergence time. The results prove that selection of low-cost antenna for a low-cost GNSS receiver is of great importance in precise positioning applications.
A hybrid population of Willow Warblers in the Åland Archipelago
Authors: Andersson Jesper Emanuel , Lehikoinen Petteri , Berdougo Michaëla , Jolkkonen Juho , Bensch Staffan
Published: March 2024

Differences in migratory behavior have been suggested to drive speciation, but the genetics underlying this process remain unknown. Identification and study of migratory divides can help us understand how differential migration can lead to reproductive isolation. Here, we genotyped Willow Warblers Phylloscopus trochilus, from the Åland islands, located in between the ranges of the differentially migrating subspecies P. t. trochilus and P. t. acredula. We found that Willow Warblers on the Åland islands were genetically intermediate to allopatric populations of both parental subspecies, providing evidence that the islands constitute a previously unknown hybrid swarm, likely to be a migratory divide.
Mrs. Dalloway and the Shecession: The Interconnectedness and Intersectionalities of Care Ethics and Social Time During the Pandemic
Authors: Balachandran Nair Lakshmi
Published: March 2024

Business ethics researchers and practitioners are interested in understanding the temporal mechanisms of various managerial activities, processes, and policies. In this direction, I borrow notions of time from Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway to examine how social time intersperses with the paid and (unpaid) care work of female employees during the pandemic. I explore how discussions of social time in connection to care work appear in newspaper discourses of “shecession”, i.e. the large-scale job/income losses experienced by women during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since shecession is a byproduct of the pandemic times, exploring the role of time in it is crucial. In fact, my findings show that the macro social time of the pandemic affects working women with care responsibilities who are situated at the intersection of multiple vulnerable social categories by simultaneously being a penalizer and a lost opportunity. Similarly, I also find that the micro social times of working women embed, stratify, and synchronize differently during the pandemic when compared to normal times. Working women with care responsibilities are thus adversely affected by both micro and macro social time changes. My findings, therefore, could be instrumental in developing and implementing inclusive policies and processes in business organizations and labor markets. In so doing, my study also indicates how a consideration of social time enriches the application of care ethics in work contexts. Ultimately, this article is also about developing caring organizations, societies, and families which care for the caregivers (working women), since receiving care is a precondition of giving care.
Geomatic tools used in the management of agricultural activities: a systematic review
Authors: Escandón-Panchana Paulo , Herrera-Franco Gricelda , Jaya-Montalvo María , Martínez-Cuevas Sandra
Published: March 2024

Managing agricultural activity encompasses technology, geographic information, spatial data and geomatic tools as support techniques. In this framework, agricultural mapping is an essential geomatic application due to its importance in managing food systems. This research aims to analyze the state of knowledge of geomatics tools and their applications in agriculture through a systematic review of scientific documents and methodological approaches, highlighting the use of geomatics in agricultural mapping to evaluate trends in agriculture management. The study methodology consists of a scientific base of publications on geomatics and its applications in sustainable agriculture, with a quantitative analysis of production and its approaches. Subsequently, PRISMA establishes a systematic review in search of the subject’s methods, applications and trends. The results show that of the total data analyzed, 60% corresponds to general agricultural mapping for crop/water/soil mapping using satellite images. Twenty percent for land use and coverage, considering the georeferencing that contributes to agricultural territorial planning. Nine percent consider geomatic key for agricultural cadastre (plot management). In addition, 6% corresponds to precision agriculture and 5% to watershed management. The most predominant geomatics tools are: Geographic Information System (GIS), Global Positioning System (GPS), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and remote sensing (RS). Also, among the most used geomatic techniques in agricultural cartography, photogrammetry in crop phenology and multispectral analysis in the optimisation and monitoring of agricultural production stand out. Studies show that the geomatic application promotes sustainability practices such as crop rotation, seeds dispersed and germinated by animals, agricultural irrigation through rivers/basins/streams, family gardens and generation of employment sources. The geomatics use is of great utility/potential for the acquisition and generation of geospatial data accurately, with time and cost savings that contribute to the decision-making of city councils, public cadastral administrations, enterprises, educational institutions and agricultural foundations.
The Validity and Reliability of the Turkish Version of the Autism Family Experience Questionnaire (AFEQ)
Authors: Eyuboglu Damla , Eyuboglu Murat , Yaylaci Ferhat , Guller Baris , Sahbudak Begum , Avunduk Aslihan , Dagli Onur Oktay , Pala Seval Caliskan , Arslantas Didem
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the AFEQ for Turkish parents of children with ASD. The Turkish-translated version of the AFEQ was administered to 241 parents of children aged 2–12 years with ASD to examine the construct validity and internal consistencies. Parents completed the Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), and Quality of Life in Autism Questionnaire Parent version, along with the AFEQ. The mean age of the children of 241 individuals in the study group was 7.63 ± 3.02 and 88.4% (n = 213) were male. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.921 of the total variance. Cronbach alpha coefficients are 0.813 for the “Experience of being a parent” subscale, 0.768 for the “Family Life” subscale, 0.810 for the “Child Development, Understanding and Social Relationships” subscale, and 0.804 for the “Child Symptoms (Feelings and Behaviour)” subscale. In conclusion, the translated and culturally adapted AFEQ shows good reliability and validity to measure the priorities of autistic children and their families in Turkey. It can also be useful in monitoring the effectiveness of intervention programs and changes in the child.
Friendship in Autism Spectrum Disorder Is Related to Diverse Developmental Changes Between Toddlerhood and Adolescence
Authors: Saban-Bezalel Ronit , Ben-Itzchak Esther , Zachor Ditza A.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Follow-up studies of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in early childhood that focus on friendship formation during adolescence are scarce. The present study focused on exploring characteristics possibly related to the ability to establish friendships during adolescence among children diagnosed with ASD in toddlerhood.

Methods

The cohort included 43 participants who underwent comprehensive assessments during toddlerhood and adolescence. Participants were divided into two groups [Friendship(+)/Friendship(-)] based on (1) adolescent social insight as assessed by professionals and (2) parental and adolescent self-reports regarding having or not having friends. No differences in IQ, ASD symptoms, or adaptive behavior during early childhood were found between the two groups.

Results

Different and better changes in social communication, adaptive socialization, and daily living skills were observed for the Friendship(+) group. Adolescents with ASD in the Friendship(+) group exhibited greater social independence. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder incidence, anxiety symptom severity, and placement in mainstream or special education classes did not differ between the two groups.

Conclusion

This long-term study highlights that for children with ASD, longitudinal growth in social communication and adaptive functioning is possible, highly important for and related to the development of the complex ability to establish friendship.
Parental Engagement in Identifying Information Needs After Newborn Screening for Families of Infants with Suspected Athymia
Authors: Howley Evey , Soomann Maarja , Kreins Alexandra Y.
Published: March 2024

Congenital athymia is a rare T-lymphocytopaenic condition, which requires early corrective treatment with thymus transplantation (TT). Athymic patients are increasingly identified through newborn screening (NBS) for severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). Lack of relatable information resources contributes to challenging patient and family journeys during the diagnostic period following abnormal NBS results. Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) activities, including parental involvement in paediatrics, are valuable initiatives to improve clinical communication and parental information strategies. Parents of infants with suspected athymia were therefore invited to discuss the information they received during the diagnostic period following NBS with the aim to identify parental information needs and targeted strategies to address these adequately. Parents reported that athymia was not considered with them as a possible differential diagnosis until weeks after initial NBS results. Whilst appropriate clinical information about athymia and TT was available upon referral to specialist immunology services, improved access to easy-to-understand information from reliable sources, including from clinical nurse specialists and peer support systems, remained desirable. A roadmap concept, with written or digital information, addressing parental needs in real time during a potentially complex diagnostic journey, was proposed and is transferrable to other inborn errors of immunity (IEI) and rare diseases. This PPIE activity provides insight into the information needs of parents of infants with suspected athymia who are identified through SCID NBS, and highlights the role for PPIE in promoting patient- and family-centred strategies to improve IEI care.
Fabrication of Luminescent Microtiterplate Using Terbium Complex for Phenol Screening in Seawater Samples
Authors: Kamel Rasha M.
Published: March 2024

Tb(III)-2-aminoterphthalate complex Tb2-(ATPh)3 was synthesized and characterized using FT-IR, thermal analysis and elemental analysis. Tb2(ATPh)3 microtiter plate was fabricated through embedding Tb(III) complex in polyvinyl chloride membrane and used for environmental determination of phenol in sea water samples. The calculated detection (DL), quantification (QL) limits, and binding constant (KD) were 00.63 µmol L− 1, 2.10 µmol L− 1 and 1.32 × 104 mol− 1 L, respectively. The fabricated microtiter plates exhibited high selectivity towards phenol over other hydrocarbon compounds. Furthermore, AGREE metric tool was used to assess the method’s green nature as well as its practicability and applicability. These merit outcomes provide that the new method for phenol detection was environmentally benign and safe to humans. The prepared Tb2(ATPh)3 MTP was validated through using gas chromatography for monitoring phenol in Suez Bay water accurately with high precision. The obtained results encouraged using Tb2(ATPh)3 MTP for efficient, fast, selective, and direct screening of phenol in real samples.
Analysis of stress and deformation of an exponentially graded viscoelastic coated half plane under indentation by a rigid flat punch indenter tip
Authors: Çömez İsa
Published: March 2024

This paper solves the dynamic contact problem when a rigid flat punch indents into an exponentially graded (FG) viscoelastic coated homogeneous half-plane. A harmonic vertical force is applied to the FG coating, and the solution is obtained for the stress and displacement for both the FG viscoelastic coating and the half-plane using the Helmholtz functions and the Fourier integral transform technique. By applying specific boundary conditions, the contact mechanics problem is converted into a singular integral equation of the first kind. This equation is then solved numerically using the Gauss-Chebyshev integration formulas. The analysis provides detailed insights into how various parameters—such as external excitation frequency, loss factor ratio, Young’s modulus ratio, density ratio, Poisson’s ratio, indentation load, and punch length—affect the dynamic contact stress and dynamic in-plane stress.
Health-related quality of life and associated risk factors in patients with Multiple Osteochondromas: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Boarini Manila , Tremosini Morena , Di Cecco Alessia , Gnoli Maria , Brizola Evelise , Mordenti Marina , Pedrini Elena , Locatelli Manuela , Lanza Marcella , Antonioli Diego , Gallone Giovanni , Rocca Gino , Staals Eric L. , Trisolino Giovanni , Sangiorgi Luca
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the health-related quality of life and associated risk factors for Multiple Osteochondromas patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted from May to December 2022 during the routine visit to the referral center for rare skeletal disorders. All patients with Multiple Osteochondromas aged ≥ 3 years were included. EuroQol 5-dimension questionnaires, and demographic, clinical, and surgical history data were collected. Descriptive statistics, Fisher’s exact test, One-sample t-test, Spearman’s correlation, and multiple linear and logistic regression were performed to analyze the data. Results are reported following STROBE guidelines.

Results

A total of 128 patients were included in the study, with a mean age of 14 [SD, 10] years. The mean EQ-5D Index Value was 0.863 [SD, 0.200] and the EQ-VAS was 84 [SD, 19] with a positive correlation between two scores [r = 0.541, p < 0.001]. Patients frequently referred problems in pain/discomfort [78.8%], anxiety/depression [50%], and usual activities [38.8%] dimensions. Increasing age was the common risk factor for health-related quality of life [p < 0.000], as well as Index Value and VAS scores were significantly lower in surgical patients [p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively].

Conclusion

Increasing age and surgical procedures were found highly associated with reduced health-related quality of life in Multiple Osteochondromas patients. Our findings provide relevant information to support the establishment of patient-centered healthcare pathways and pave the way for further research into medical and non-medical therapeutic strategies for these patients.