bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In Situ Gelling Silk Fibroin/ECM Hydrogel With Sustained Oxygen Release for Neural Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Haki Mahyar , Shafaei Nadia , Moeini Mohammad 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTIn situ gelling, cell‐laden hydrogels hold promise for regenerating tissue lesions with irregular shapes located in complex and hard‐to‐reach anatomical sites. A notable example is the regeneration of neural tissue lost due to cerebral cavitation. However, hypoxia‐induced cell necrosis during the vascularization period imposes a significant challenge to the success of this approach. Oxygen‐releasing hydrogels have been developed to address this issue, but they suffer from fast oxygen release over a short period, limiting their efficacy. This study develops an in situ gelling hydrogel system based on silk fibroin (SF) and decellularized brain extracellular matrix (dECM) with sustained oxygen release and tunable gelation time. Calcium peroxide nanoparticles (CPO NPs) served as the oxygen generating material, which were encapsulated within SF microparticles before incorporation into the SF‐dECM hydrogel, aiming to regulate the oxygen release rate. The total CPO content of the hydrogels was only 2%–4% w/w. Characterization of hydrogels containing various SF concentrations (2%, 4% or 6% w/v) and microparticle loadings (10%, 15% or 20% w/w) demonstrated that SF concentration in the hydrogel matrix significantly affects the swelling, resorption rate and mechanical properties, while microparticle loading has a milder effect. On the other hand, microparticle loading strongly affected the oxygen release profile. High SF concentration in the hydrogel matrix (6% w/v) led to slow resorption rate and high stiffness, likely unsuitable for intended application. Low SF concentration (2% w/v), on the other hand, led to a high swelling ratio and a less sustained oxygen release. Among 4% w/v SF hydrogels, increased microparticle loading led to a slower resorption rate, increased stiffness and enhanced oxygen release. However, cell viability was reduced at 20% w/w microparticle loading, likely due to decreased cell attachment. The 4% w/v SF hydrogels containing 10% w/w SF‐CPO microparticles exhibited relatively low swelling ratio (12.8% ± 2.4%), appropriate resorption rate (70.16% ± 10.75% remaining weight after 28 days) and compressive modulus (36.9 ± 1.7 kPa) and sustained oxygen release for over 2 weeks. This sample also showed the highest viability under hypoxic conditions among tested hydrogel samples (87.6% ± 15.9%). Overall, the developed hydrogels in this study showed promise for potential application in brain tissue engineering.
Template‐Assisted Electrospinning and 3D Printing of Multilayered Hierarchical Vascular Grafts
Authors: Zarei Moein , Żwir Marek J. , Michalkiewicz Beata , Gorący Jarosław , El Fray Miroslawa 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTFabricating complex hierarchical structures mimicking natural vessels and arteries is pivotal for addressing problems of cardiovascular diseases. Various fabrication strategies have been explored to achieve this goal, each contributing unique advantages and challenges to the development of functional vascular grafts. In this study, a three‐layered tubular structure resembling vascular grafts was fabricated using biocompatible and biodegradable copolymers of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) using advanced manufacturing techniques. The outer layer was fabricated by template‐assisted electrospinning utilizing a 3D‐printed scaffold with a precise hexagonal pore design as the template, and the inner layer was coated with gelatin through perfusion. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were incorporated into electrospun fibers to enhance mechanical properties. The gelatin coating was applied to the lumen using perfusion coating, resembling the inner layer. Integration of 3D‐printed structures with electrospun fibers via template‐assisted electrospinning and gelatin coating resulted in a seamless multilayered scaffold. Mechanical testing demonstrated robustness, surpassing natural arteries in some aspects, while the gelatin coating significantly reduced liquid leakage, ensuring leak‐free functionality. Cytotoxicity assessment confirmed the biocompatibility of processed materials with fibroblast cells, supporting potential for medical applications.
Meniscal extrusion: Proposal for a novel qualitative classification
Authors: Perelli Simone , Conte Pietro , Pizza Nicola , Morales‐Avalos Rodolfo , Kon Elizaveta , Grassi Alberto , Zaffagnini Stefano , Monllau Joan Carles 
Published: December 2024

AbstractMeniscal extrusion (ME), defined as the radial displacement of the meniscal body outside the margins of the tibial plateau, has been seen as an independent and relevant predictor of intra‐articular knee degeneration. Nonetheless, available classifications for ME are exclusively quantitative assessments not considering the context in which extrusion is identified. Indeed, ME can be the result of several different conditions spanning from acute tears to chronic degeneration and its definition cannot be only dependent on the numeric calculation of the radial displacement of the meniscal body. Furthermore, growing evidence supports the existence of a paraphysiological ME resulting from joint loading, limb malalignment, anatomical abnormalities of the meniscal attachments to the femur and tibia or a nonpathological finding after meniscal allograft transplantation. It is therefore clear that an exclusively quantitative assessment of ME cannot be sufficient since this condition can develop in such different clinical scenarios. For this reason, a novel qualitative classification for ME is proposed, differentiating between three distinct conditions: a paraphysiological ME, a pathological ME and ME related to degenerative conditions. Furthermore, a comprehensive review of the present literature has been conducted to report the most relevant and updated evidence on the topic highlighting the difference in the clinical management of each different category.Level of EvidenceNot applicable.
Assessing ChatGPT responses to common patient questions regarding total ankle arthroplasty
Authors: Artioli Elena , Veronesi Francesca , Mazzotti Antonio , Brogini Silvia , Zielli Simone Ottavio , Giavaresi Gianluca , Faldini Cesare 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTPurposeArtificial Intelligence is becoming increasingly integrated into healthcare, making it essential to assess its potential as a reliable information source for patient queries in the ambit of orthopaedic surgery. In literature, it is being employed in foot and ankle surgery and total hip arthroplasty. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the ability of Chat Generative Pretrained Transformer (ChatGPT) version 3.5 to give accurate, complete and comprehensive responses to the most common questions which are usually asked by the patient to the surgeon regarding total ankle arthroplasty.MethodsTen most common questions were selected by two ankle surgeons and then ChatGPT was used to answer these questions. The responses were analyzed using an accuracy score and the modified DISCERN score to assess clarity. WordCalc software package (educational‐level indices) was used to assess the readability of the responses.ResultsMost of ChatGPT's responses were considered excellent not requiring clarification or satisfactory requiring minimal clarification. Indeed, the accuracy score was 2, suggesting that the overall responses were satisfactory requiring minimal clarification, and DISCERN score mean was 51, which is considered good‐fair.ConclusionsChatGPT demonstrates potential as a tool for responding to common patient questions related to total ankle arthroplasty, offering clear and mostly accurate information. While its current performance is based on the available literature, ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence may further enhance its utility in healthcare communication. However, further studies are required to evaluate its role more precisely in patient information and clinical settings.Levels of EvidenceNot applicable.
Bridging theory and practice: Experiences of diagnostic radiography students during clinical training in resource‐constrained settings
Authors: Shafuda Sylvia , Daniels Edwin , Karera Abel 
Published: December 2024

AbstractIntroductionClinical training is crucial for diagnostic radiography students, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical skills. In resource‐constrained settings, this training may face unique challenges that might significantly impact learning outcomes and future practice. Despite its importance, the experiences of diagnostic radiography students during clinical placements remain understudied, particularly in Sub‐Saharan Africa. This study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of diagnostic radiography students during clinical training at two resource‐constrained Sub‐Saharan public hospitals.MethodsA qualitative phenomenological study was conducted using face‐to‐face, semi‐structured interviews with 18 diagnostic radiography students (six each from years 2 to 4) from one participating university. Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Trustworthiness was ensured through prolonged engagement, member checking, and researchers' reflexivity. Ethical approval was obtained before data collection commenced.ResultsThree main themes were generated: (1) Clinical Environment Challenges, including equipment shortages and understaffing; (2) Independent Learning and Development, highlighting students' resilience and self‐directed learning; and (3) Patient Care Impact, demonstrating students' commitment to quality care despite constraints. Students reported increased confidence and adaptability but also noted negative interactions with healthcare workers and supervision inconsistencies.ConclusionsDespite significant challenges, diagnostic radiography students demonstrated remarkable resilience and commitment to patient care. However, resource limitations and interprofessional issues pose substantial barriers to optimal learning experiences. These findings highlighted the need for targeted interventions in diagnostic radiography education within resource‐constrained settings, including increased investment in equipment and staffing, enhanced interprofessional education, improved supervision models and curriculum enhancements fostering self‐directed learning and resilience.
Balancing Polynomial for Solution Nonlinear Stochastic Itô–Volterra Integral Equations
Authors: Beyranvand Zahra , Lotfi Taher 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis paper introduces an innovative method for solving nonlinear stochastic Itô–Volterra integral equations using balancing polynomials and their associated operational matrices. This approach effectively transforms these complex stochastic equations into a system of nonlinear algebraic equations that can be solved using the Newton method. Balancing polynomials are chosen for their ability to enhance stability and convergence, providing a more reliable and manageable framework for tackling challenging stochastic problems. The paper also includes a convergence analysis and error estimation for the proposed method. Additionally, the effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated through four numerical examples. The results obtained from this method are compared with the exact solution and those from other established techniques, including the block‐pulse function method, the shifted Jacobi operational matrix (SJOM) method, and the shifted Jacobi spectral Galerkin (SJSG) method. These comparisons highlight the superior performance and accuracy of the proposed method. All numerical computations were performed using MATLAB.
Null Controllability of Stochastic Degenerate Parabolic Equation With Convection Term
Authors: Yan Lin , Wu Bin 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis paper concerns the null controllability of stochastic degenerate parabolic equation with convection term in weakly degenerate case. Due to the degeneracy, we first transfer to study an approximate nondegenerate system. Next, we establish the Carleman estimate for backward stochastic degenerate parabolic equation with convection term. In order to deal with the convection term, the Carleman estimate is established by introducing an auxiliary function to transfer the diffusion and the convection term into a whole complex divergence‐like form. By this Carleman estimate, we then obtain an observability inequality for the adjoint system of the approximate system. Based on the observability inequality and an approximate argument, we proved our null controllability result.
Optimized Self‐Consumption of Renewable Energies With Forecast‐Based Energy Management for Agricultural Farms
Authors: Dierkes Eva , Kappertz Lars , Solovievskyi Viacheslav , Hackenberg Annika , Büskens Christof 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis work introduces an optimally controlled forecast‐based energy management system (EMS) that integrates energy demand and production forecast with optimal control techniques to optimize the management of renewable energy sources. Although controlling the energy generation is not feasible for weather‐dependent power plants, it is possible to predict the amount of energy produced. Self‐sufficiency can be improved by regulating individual devices and storage units based on anticipated energy production and demand. For electricity tariffs much larger than feed‐in tariffs, such demand‐side management can notably improve the profitability of (private) renewable energy systems. The EMS is based on long‐term predictions that enable high‐level control decisions and specific controls for the next controlling steps on a low level. Weather forecasts and forecasts of the power demand and state behavior of each device are considered to evaluate both cost function and constraints for the next prediction horizon. The system's performance is evaluated through a case study, demonstrating its ability to control the energy distribution successfully. The proposed EMS presents a promising approach to smart energy management that can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Simulation of Coated Particles Breakage Using a low Fidelity DEM–BPM Model
Authors: Safdar Wasif , Heinrich Stefan , Düster Alexander 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTPrevious studies have demonstrated that filling a ship's double hull cavity with lightweight glass particles, like Poraver significantly enhances its ability to withstand collisions. The energy absorption capability of such particles can be improved by coating them in a fluidised spray granulation process. In order to find the extent of this improvement, a numerical model needs to be developed. For that purpose, the discrete element method (DEM) with the bonded particle method (BPM) is employed using the open‐source code MUSEN. This allows the breakage of particles to be simulated using a cluster of particles bonded to each other. Since a single particle in the experiment is represented with an agglomerate of several smaller particles in the simulation, it significantly adds to the computational costs and limits the scale of the simulations which can be performed. This paper explores the different fidelities of a DEM–BPM numerical model with its advantages and disadvantages in its depiction of a coated particle breakage.
Exploring the chemical and mechanical properties of functionalized bioactive glass powder‐based experimental pit and fissure sealants
Authors: Al‐Mutairi Manal , Al‐Majed Ibrahim , Khan Aftab Ahmed , Bari Ahmed , Javed Ravish , Al‐Sadon Omar 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThis laboratory study aimed to synthesize and characterize experimental resin‐based sealants (RBSs) incorporating bioactive glass powders. An experimental formulation consisting of bisphenol A‐glycidyl methacrylate (bisGMA) and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) monomers was developed, incorporating 20 wt% of one of three distinct functionalized bioactive glass powders [S53P4 (Group 2), Biomin C (Group 3), or Biomin F (group 4)] along with 10 wt% of silica fillers in a resin composition of 70 wt%. The commercially available Seal‐Rite sealant was utilized as the control. Characterization of the bioactive powders was conducted using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The flowability, depth of cure, compressive strength (CS), diametral tensile strength (DTS), flexural strength (FS), and tensile strength (TS) of the formulations were statistically analyzed. XRD revealed increased crystallinity in bioactive glasses. FTIR indicated changes in molecular structures. SEM showed varied particle morphology among fillers. Group 2 (Biomin C) exhibited the highest flowability (15.72 mm), while Group 1 (control) had the lowest, that is, 10.31 mm. No significant differences in the depth of cure were observed. Group 4 had the highest CS (217.01 MPa), while Group 2 had the lowest (186.28 MPa). There were no significant differences in DTS, but FS and TS were significantly lower in Group 2 compared to other groups. The experimental RBSs incorporating functionalized bioactive fillers (Biomin C and Biomin F) demonstrated comparable mechanical properties relative to the control, if not superior. The findings underscore the potential of bioactive fillers in enhancing sealant performance.Highlights
This laboratory study successfully formulated and characterized bioactive glass‐based resin sealants by incorporating functionalized bioactive fillers (S53P4, Biomin C and Biomin F) in combination with silica‐based fillers for enhanced mechanical performance of experimental resin based dental sealant.
Comprehensive material characterization performed using FTIR, XRD, and SEM, revealing increased crystallinity post‐functionalization and structural changes indicating enhanced interaction between resin and bioactive fillers.
Group with Biomin C bioactive fillers exhibited 52% higher flowability than the commercial control sealant, enhancing ease of application in clinical settings.
While the Group with Biomin F demonstrated 17% increase in compressive strength (217.01 MPa) compared to the control, indicating improved durability under occlusal forces.
Functionalized bioactive glass fillers, especially Biomin C and Biomin F, offer promising enhancements in both mechanical properties and clinical applicability of resin‐based dental sealants.
A methodology for microstructural evaluation of unsaturated flow phenomena by in‐situ UV‐flow freezing
Authors: Staal Jeroen , Caglar Baris , Michaud Véronique 
Published: December 2024

AbstractMicrostructural analysis of resin flow in liquid composite molding is impeded by the absence of a characterization method that possesses both the required spatial and time resolution to capture the ongoing phenomena. An optimized UV‐flow freezing methodology is presented to rapidly capture dynamic flow behavior, followed by high‐resolution micro‐computed tomography (μCT) imaging to extract the flow front morphology. Optimisation of the resin strongly enhances the photopolymerisation kinetics, reducing the gelation time by up to 56%, while an adequate postcuring procedure at moderate temperature is proposed by introducing radical induced cationic polymerization. Additives are identified to facilitate facile variation of the capillary number while distortions of the flow front morphology are minimized by finetuning the experimental procedure. μCT imaging allows for a micron‐scale through‐thickness assessment of unsaturated flow at range of flow regimes corresponding to both capillary‐ and viscous‐dominated flow regimes while the corresponding saturation curves were derived by segmentation of the resulting images.Highlights
An optimized method for evaluating microstructural flow in fibrous preforms.
Optimisation of the resin composition allows for fast UV‐photopolymerisation.
Additives identified for facile variation of the capillary number.
Visualization of “frozen” microstructural flow by micro‐CT analysis.
Applicable to broad range of flow conditions that normally cannot be captured.
Approaching Universal Prenatal Detection of Significant Cardiovascular Malformations in Nevada
Authors: Evans William N. , Acherman Ruben J. , Kip Katrinka T. , Luna Carlos F. , Ludwick Joseph M. , Rollins Robert C. , Castillo William J. , Alexander John A. , Kwan Tina W. , Garg Shilpi , Restrepo Humberto 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo report our recent experience with prenatal detection of significant cardiovascular malformations (CVMs) in Nevada's state‐wide maternal population receiving prenatal care.MethodsWe queried our databases for those with significant CVMs diagnosed pre‐ or postnatally between May 1, 2021, and April 30, 2024. We defined CVMs as those that required, would have required, or will likely require a therapeutic procedure in the first 12 months. Additionally, we included those with atrioventricular and ventriculoarterial discordance and left isomeric situs, both unaccompanied by additional CVMs, and congenital complete heart block. We defined routine prenatal care as obstetric care, which included at least one fetal anatomical survey ultrasound.ResultsWe identified 390 cases of significant CVMs. Of the 390 cases, 359 (92%) had prenatal care over the three‐year observation period, with prenatal detection rates for the three 12‐month intervals: 76% (87/115), 87% (94/108), and 95% (129/136) respectively (p < 0.001 by chi‐square). A total of 310 prenatal diagnoses were made from comprehensive fetal echocardiograms performed on 8397 pregnant women at maternal‐fetal‐medicine centers.ConclusionTo our knowledge, these results represent the highest prenatal detection rate for significant CVMs, in a state‐wide maternal population in the United States.
Reversible photoswitching of proton conduction in hetero‐smectic lamellar structures formed by side‐chain liquid crystalline copolymer thin films
Authors: Ishizaki‐Betchaku Yuya , Suetsugu Kota , Hara Mitsuo , Nagao Yuki , Matsui Jun , Seki Takahiro , Nagano Shusaku 
Published: December 2024

AbstractSpatiotemporal control of ion conductivity is a key issue for creating emerging fields of functional ion‐conducting nanomaterials. In the present paper, we demonstrate the formation of hetero‐smectic lamellar structures, which are formed by nanosegregation of hydrophobic liquid crystalline (LC) azobenzene side chains and hydrophilic acrylic acid side chains via polymer main chains in side‐chain LC (SCLC) copolymers, and the reversible photoswitching of the proton conductivity. Proton‐conducting SCLC copolymers with different acrylic acid contents are synthesized by free‐radical copolymerization. The LC nature of the synthesized polymers is investigated by polarized optical microscope observation, differential scanning calorimetry and X‐ray scattering measurements. Ultraviolet (UV)–visible absorption spectroscopy and grazing incidence X‐ray scattering measurements reveal the hetero‐smectic lamellar formation of SCLC copolymer thin films. Proton conductivity of the polymer thin films is evaluated by impedance spectroscopy measurements under different temperatures and relative humidity conditions with sequential UV light irradiation. These results indicate that stable and reversible photoswitching of the proton conductivity around one order of magnitude is attributed to the trans–cis photoisomerization of azobenzene side chains by UV light irradiation. These results offer the opportunity for applications of photo‐functional nanomaterials including emerging biomimetic ionic signal transduction devices and neuromorphic devices. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.