bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Traumatic Pediatric Cervical Spine Injury – A Proposed Clearance Algorithm Incorporating A Novel Time Delay
Authors: Fischer Victoria E. , Mahadev Vaidehi M. , Bethel Jacob A. , Quirarte Jaime A. , Hammack Robert J. , Gragnaniello Cristian , Tarasiewicz Izabela 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose Pediatric cervical spine injury (pCSI) is rare. Physiological differences necessitate alternate management from adults. Yet, no standardized pediatric protocols exist. Previous investigations applying adult-validated clinical decision rules (CDRs) – Nexus Criteria (NX) and Canadian C-spine Rules (CCR) – to children are mixed. We hypothesized a combined NX+CCR approach applied at a novel 24 h timepoint would enhance screening efficacy in select patients.
Methods We conducted a retrospective review of a prospectively-collected database over 15 months at a pediatric-capable Level-1 trauma center. Age and mechanism determined initial inclusion. NX and CCR criteria were collected and retroactively applied on arrival (T0) and 24 h later (T1). Statistical analyses were performed in SPSS.
Results 306 patients met inclusion. Current practices compel computed tomography (CT) overuse for craniocervical evaluations: 298 (97.4%) underwent >1 CT. Of cervical spines imaged (n=175), 161 (92.0%) underwent CT while 74 (42.3%) underwent magnetic resonance imaging with 14 (18.9%) completed after 72 h. Of collars placed on arrival (n=181), 136 (75.1%) were cleared before discharge with 86 (63.2%) CTs denoting preferred clearance modality; CT utilization was unchanged when stratified by age < 5 years (p=0.819). Notably, we found more patients met NX+CCR criteria at T1 versus T0 (p=0.008) without missed pCSI.
Conclusion We showed incorporating a novel time delay before a second CDR reapplication may enhance screening efficacy in pCSI. Our new algorithm combines these study findings with other literature-based recommendations and thus, may represent a standardizable option for evaluating pCSI in acute trauma setting.
Free fat flap transfer in recurrent neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome pain treatment: FIRST study
Authors: Thuau François , Gadbled Guillaume , Goronflot Thomas , Perrot Pierre , Poinas Alexandra , Lancien Ugo 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS), characterized by brachial plexus compression, causes chronic pain and numbness in the upper extremities. Recurrences are common after surgical treatment, which typically includes an anterior scalenectomy and rib resection. Brachial plexus neurolysis and flap coverage can reduce scar fibrosis and prevent further recurrence. The latissimus dorsi flap is a common choice for this purpose. However, perforator fat flaps minimize donor site complications by avoiding muscle harvesting. Furthermore, a free flap transfer prevents new scars from developing in an already painful anatomical region. Given the lack of literature on this subject, we plan to use validated and recommended questionnaires to investigate the impact on pain and quality of life of brachial plexus wrapping with a free fat flap following neurolysis in cases of recurrent NTOS (R-NOS).
Methods: FIRST is a single-center, prospective observational study recruiting participants over 24 months. Eligible patients over the age of 18 are treated with brachial plexus neurolysis and a free perforator fat flap for R-NTOS. The study aims to enroll 20 patients and involves preoperative and postoperative assessments at a six-month follow-up. The primary outcome, measured using numerical scales, is pain reduction. Secondary outcomes include decreased painful body surface area, maximum and average pain levels, changes in quality of life (QoL), upper limb function, and anxiety-depressive symptoms, which are measured using various validated scales and questionnaires.
Discussion: The novelty of this study lies in its ability to provide information on the impact of free perforator fat flaps in R-NTOS treatment using validated, standardized and recommended methods of assessment for neuropathic pain, particularly considering the psychosocial impact.
Active adhesion improves adaptive flight for feathered wings
Authors: Haughn Kevin , Auletta Jeffrey , Hrynuk John , Henry Todd 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Birds change the shape of their wings to adapt to dynamic environments, such as dense cities and forests. Engineers have explored using avian-informed designs with feather-based wing morphing to achieve similar capabilities with small aircraft. Unlike engineered systems, natural feathers prevent separation during morphing with microscopic features. Without a fastening mechanism, gaps can form throughout the wing, reducing the transverse force generation necessary for rapid change in flight path, thus impairing maneuverability. Here we show how active feather fastening adapts wing force and moment generation to improve maneuverability, efficiency, and stability over inactive feathers. Further, the active feathers offer a desirable relationship between velocity and these metrics, improving on, or maintaining comparable performance to, baseline rigid wings. As small aircraft are expected to fly faster, further, and with advanced aerobatic capability, feathered morphing wings incorporating electrostatic adhesion will advance aircraft adaptability for successful operation in complex environments.
Curing kinetics and thermal stability enhancement of epoxy system via co-curing with octapolyether (amine)- terminated POSS
Authors: Farhadinejad Zeinab , Karimi Majid , Ehsani Morteza 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) are considered as effective materials to improved mechanical and thermal properties of epoxy resins for high performance applications, but can suffer from phase separation. Herein, POSS structure was synthesized in a way which contained eight long polyether chains with amino-functional groups which was named OPEA-POSS and utilized as co-curing agent for epoxy resin. OPEA-POSS structure was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectra (FT-IR), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectra (1H-NMR and 13C-NMR) and Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC). The curing kinetics was studied by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) which revealed that the curing reaction order n is 1.66 and the activation energy Ea is 58.1kJ/mol based on Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS) approach which was in reliable agreement with Kissinger method. Also DSC analysis indicated that the sample co-cured by 5wt% of OPEA-POSS was the optimal hybrid with higher cuing enthalpy than the other hybrids, and although it had lower crosslinking density, it had higher glass transition temperature (Tg) than the neat epoxy. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed that thermal stability of OPEA-POSS/epoxy hybrid was higher than the neat epoxy, and OPEA-POSS increased the char yield from 3.5–11.55% which improved the thermal stability. Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) along with other analysis results showed that no phase separation was occurred and the system was completely homogeneous.
Application and evaluation of carbonate apatite granules for mandibular bone defect reconstruction after jawbone cyst enucleation–A retrospective case series
Authors: Fukuda Naoyuki , Takamaru Natsumi , Akita Kazuya , Kudoh Keiko , Ishikawa Kunio , Miyamoto Youji 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
To evaluate the effectiveness of CO3Ap granules in the mandibular bone defects by using computed tomography (CT) images.
Methods
This study was retrospective case series of mandibular bone defect reconstruction using CO3Ap granules. Six patients with jawbone cysts treated by simultaneous grafting CO3Ap granules after cyst enucleation were enrolled. Patients without grafting CO3Ap granules were excluded. Mandibular bone height including buccolingual bone height, the change of perpendicular distance between the buccolingual line to the alveolar ridge, and the three-dimensional volume of remaining CO3Ap granules were analyzed using CT images obtained at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months postoperatively.
Results
Postoperative CT images showed that cortical and cancellous bone-like structures were formed on the grafting area periphery and inside the defect, respectively, with gradual resorption of the CO3Ap granules. Furthermore, there was no evidence of leaving bone defect even at the center of the lesion when the defect was successfully reconstructed by filling it with CO3Ap granules. The percentage volume of remaining CO3Ap granules to the volume at 3 months postoperatively were 76.1 ± 13.1%, 35.8 ± 22.5%, 25.0 ± 13.0%, and 9.9 ± 6.4% at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months postoperatively, and the volume reduction rate increased significantly within 12 months postoperatively.
Conclusion
Grafting CO3Ap granules after the enucleation of a jawbone cyst is a good reconstructive treatment option for postoperative prosthetic treatment because CO3Ap granules are gradually replaced by new bone while preserving the contour of the mandibular bone.
Impact of Air Pollutants and Meteorological Parameters on Severe Pneumonia in Older Adults
Authors: Safçi Sinem Berik , Aybal Esra , Gungor Omur 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between air pollutants, weather parameters, and the characteristics and mortality of pneumonia in the older adult population.
Methods
This retrospective, observational, cross-sectional study included a total of 388 patients. Air pollutants and meteorological parameters were retrieved from official databases. Statistical tests were conducted using correlation and binary logistic regression analyses.
Results
The mean age of the 388 patients aged was 77.63 years. PSI (pneumonia severity index) was inversely correlated with nitric oxide (NO) exposure and positively correlated with ozone (O3) exposure (r = -0.199 and r = 0.313, respectively). An increase in humidity and wind speed over three days was positively correlated with PSI (r = 0.319 and r = 0.144, respectively). Increased O3 exposure during the three- and seven-day periods preceding the patient visit increased the risk of death at a similar rate (odds ratio [OR]: 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–1.03). Increased humidity exposure was also associated with higher mortality (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.11).
Conclusion
Meteorological changes and air pollution are factors that can increase the severity and mortality risk of pneumonia in the older adult population. Increased wind speed can elevate pneumonia severity, while high O3 and humidity exposure can heighten both the severity and mortality associated with the disease.
Ethical Approval Number and Date:
This study received approval from the Ethics Committee of Adana City Research and Education Hospital with protocol number 3263 (date: March 28, 2024).
Detecting and Controlling DNA Translocation through a Nanopore using a van der Waals Heterojunction Diode
Authors: Chen Sihan , Huang Siyuan , Son Jangyup , Han Edmund , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Huang Pinshane , King William , Zande Arend van der , Bashir Rashid 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

A long-unrealized goal in solid-state nanopore sensing is to achieve out-of-plane electrical sensing and control of DNA during translocation, which is a prerequisite for base-by-base ratcheting that enables DNA sequencing in biological nanopores. Two-dimensional (2D) heterostructures, with their capability to construct out-of-plane electronics with atomic layer precision, are ideal yet unexplored candidates for use as electrical sensing membranes. Here we demonstrate a nanopore architecture using a vertical 2D heterojunction diode consisting of p-type WSe2 on n-type MoS2. This diode exhibits rectified interlayer tunneling currents modulated by ionic potential, while the heterojunction potential reciprocally rectifies ionic transport through the nanopore. We achieve concurrent detection of DNA translocation using both ionic and diode currents and demonstrate a 2.3-fold electrostatic slowing of translocation speed. Encapsulation layers enable robust operation while preserving the spatial resolution of atomically sharp 2D heterointerface for sensing. These results establish a paradigm for out-of-plane electrical sensing and control of single biomolecules.
Patients’ and nurses’ perceptions and experiences of a digitally enabled cardiac telerehabilitation program - a qualitative study
Authors: Braver Justin , Tsindos Tess , Carrington Melinda J , Keating Catherine , Ayton Darshini 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background. Secondary prevention cardiac rehabilitation programs are paramount to prevent cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality. However, they remain underutilized. Digital health programs provide an opportunity for healthcare delivery by breaking down access barriers. However, evidence for their implementation is lacking. Further evidence to ascertain the drivers for uptake and acceptance of digitally enabled cardiac telerehabilitation programs is required.
Aims. To explore the perceptions and experiences of patients and their nurses enrolled in a digitally enabled cardiac telerehabilitation program, aiming to ascertain the drivers for program acceptance.
Methods. A qualitative study utilizing semi-structured telephone interviews was conducted. Researchers independently analyzed data deductively to categorise participant perceptions about the program into positive, neutral or negative. The transcripts were then reviewed inductively to code for program benefits, challenges, and recommendations for improvement.
Results. 12 out of 52 participants and 2 cardiac nurses, from across Australia, who had completed the intervention, participated in the semi-structured telephone interviews. Key benefits were the personalised nurse telehealth consultations (12/12), education aimed at maintaining learned healthy behaviours (10/12) and remote patient monitoring (5/12). However, digital connectivity was a challenge for patients. Nurses found that trust building was a challenge given there was no face-to-face care.
Conclusion. Digitally enabled cardiac telerehabilitation is well accepted by patients and their nurses. Remote monitoring in combination with personalised telehealth nurse consultations enhance patient-clinician communication and were key success factors in this model of care. Challenges with digital connectivity should be considered and addressed in future interventions. Further quantitative research is necessary to validate these findings.
Nano-Zero-Valent Iron Incorporated Acidified Activated Carbon Coupled with Persulfate Catalyst for High-Efficient Degradation of Phenol from Water
Authors: Jia Zhongqi , Hao Linlin , Liu Xianbin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Phenol is a widely utilized raw material in industrial processes, posing a significant threat to human health and aquatic ecosystems. A highly efficient persulfate (PS) catalyst was prepared for the removal of bio-refractory phenol from water. Nano-zero-valent iron (nZVI) has a high reduction potential and can effectively activate PS, but its susceptibility to agglomeration, oxidation and low electron transfer efficiency limit its application. In this study, nZVI was incorporated into activated carbon acidified with hydrochloric acid (HAC-nZVI) to improve its usability. The optimal conditions were determined as follows: the C/Fe ratio was 2:1, the dosage of HAC-nZVI was 0.5 g L− 1, the PS concentration was 5.5 mM, and the optimal initial pH was 7.0. The maximum phenol removal efficiency of over 90% was achieved within 30 min by using HAC-nZVI. The contribution of different oxidatively active species was quantified, with SO4·− and ·OH contributing 50.5% and 37.0% respectively, playing a major role in phenol removal, while O2− and 1O2 contributing 12.5%, playing a secondary role. The mechanism based on the phase transformation of Fe(0/II/III) was elucidated by using XPS and free radical analysis. The intermediate products of the phenol degradation were identified and two possible removal pathways were inferred. The toxicity prediction software indicated that the toxicity and environmental risk of the phenol intermediates in the reaction system were generally reduced.
Three-dimensional numerical simulation of the geyser phenomenon caused by entrapped air release in a baffle-drop shaft
Authors: Yang Qian , Yang Qinghua 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

To mitigate the structural and ground safety risks caused by the high-speed air-water mixture during the geyser process in a baffle-drop shaft, a three-dimensional (3-D) numerical model test was conducted. This study systematically examined the effects of void fraction and inlet pipe diameter on pressure and geyser intensity. It also analyzed the variation law of impact load on the baffles at the shaft bottom, and suggested the installation of a throttling orifice plate in the mid-shaft to regulate the geyser intensity. The findings indicate that the inlet pipe pressure initially decreases and then increases with rising void fraction, reaching a minimum pressure between 0.2 and 0.4. The geyser intensity reaches its maximum when the diameter ratio of the inlet pipe to the drop shaft is1:2. Additionally, the impact load on the baffle decreases continuously from the bottom to the top, with the impact load near the dividing wall and shaft wall being greater than that at the baffle edge for the same baffle. Installing an orifice plate in the mid-shaft can effectively control the geyser intensity, with the impact load on the orifice plate being ten times greater than that on the baffle load at the shaft’s bottom. These results can serve as a valuable reference for the safe design of the baffle-drop shafts.
Unbiased picture of the ligand docking process for the hevein protein–oligosaccharide complex
Authors: Yui Toshifumi , Uto Takuya 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The ligand-docking behavior of hevein, the major latex protein from the rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis (Euphorbiaceae), has been investigated by the unguided molecular dynamics (MD) simulation method. An oligosaccharide molecule, initially placed in an arbitrary position, was allowed to move around hevein for a prolonged simulation time, on the order of microseconds, with the expectation of spontaneous ligand docking of the oligosaccharide molecule to the binding site of hevein. In the binary solution system consisting of a hevein molecule and a chito-trisaccharide (GlcNAc3) molecule, three out of the six separate simulation runs successfully reproduced the complex structure of the observed binding from. It appeared that the surface topology formed by two aromatic side chains of the hevein molecule played a role in orienting the GlcNAc3 molecule in the correct direction. We also performed MD simulations of the ternary solution system containing a cello-hexasaccharide (Glc6) molecule in addition to hevein and a chito-hexasaccharide (GlcNAc6) molecule. Formation of hevein–GlcNAc6 complex structures was exclusively observed, while the Glc6 molecule remained in the solvent phase throughout the simulations. Obviously, the acetamide groups of GlcNAc play a role in detecting the binding site and its vicinity on the protein surface.
Green synthesis of silver sulfide quantum dots using Artemisia dracunculus alcoholic extract and evaluation of its cytotoxic effect on HFF2 cells
Authors: Mohammadi Ali , Belbasi Mohadese , Safari Hajar , Sharafi Ali , Yazdinezhad Alireza , Danafar Hossein , mahammadiamfazli mehran 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Due to their special features, quantum dots have recently attracted the attention of researchers in the fields of imaging, drug delivery, and cancer treatment. In this study, we prepared Ag2S quantum dots (QDs) intending to control the nucleus growth and reduce toxicity in Artemisia dracunculus (tarragon) extract substrate using the green synthesis method. Synthesized nanoparticles were analyzed using different characterization techniques. The DLS data analysis showed that Ag2S QDs prepared by the green synthesis method have a mean size of 56 nm, which is smaller compared to chemical synthesis. Additionally, the synthesis of Ag2S QDs with tarragon extract decreased the zeta potential from − 13 eV to -21 eV, which can be effective in enhancing colloidal stability and increasing their presence in the bloodstream. Examining the hemolysis data showed that the synthesis of Ag2S QDs with tarragon extract significantly reduces the lysis of red blood cells by modifying the surface chemistry. The cell culture data also confirmed the results of hemolysis, indicating increased cell viability with Ag2S QDs tarragon.
Dual Functionality of Schiff Base: Sensing of metal ions and Broad-Spectrum Antibacterial Effects
Authors: Alnajeebi Afnan M. , Shafie Alaa , Al-Saidi Hamed M. , Ashour Amal Adnan , Felemban Mohammed Fareed , Tayeb Faris J. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In this study, a novel Schiff base sensor (SBS) was synthesized and characterized for its dual functionality as a sensor for Ag+ and Fe3+ ions and its broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. The structural properties of the Schiff base were confirmed using fluorescence and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The sensing ability of the Schiff base was evaluated toward Hg2+, Fe3+, K+, Mg2+, Ni2+, Li+, Ca2+, Cu2+, Cr3+, Cd2+, Co2+, Na+, Ag+, and Zn2+ through fluorescence studies. Among the tested metal ions, SBS demonstrating high selectivity and sensitivity toward Ag+ and Fe3+ ions, with notable changes in fluorescence spectra upon binding. These changes were due to formation of complexes SBS-Ag+ and SBS-Fe3+. The limit of detection (LOD) was calculated to be 0.0028 ppm (0.026 µM), for Ag+ and 0.0014 ppm (0.024 µM) for Fe3+. Furthermore, the Schiff base and its metal complexes SBS-Ag+ and SBS-Fe3+ were tested for antibacterial activity against various bacterial strains. The results revealed significant enhancement in antibacterial efficacy upon coordination with Ag+ and Fe3+, indicating that the Schiff base-metal complexes exhibit superior activity compared to the free ligand. The improved biological activity is attributed to the metal coordination, which increases the lipophilicity of the complexes, facilitating their penetration into bacterial cell membranes.
Sleep medication and risk of cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults: The YAHABA study
Authors: Sato Yuriko , Akasaka Hiroshi , Hosokawa Kazuki , Yamaguchi Takashi , Nozaki Ryota , Terauchi Takahiro , Hirai Eisuke , Sato Mitsunobu , Ishizuka Naoki , Maeda Tetsuya 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The prevalence of dementia has increased in recent years, and sleep disorders are common among older adults. The purpose of this study was to clarify the association between sleep medication and cognitive function in older adults. Community-dwelling older adults were evaluated face-to-face for cognitive function and classified into normal, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia groups. Their history of sleep medication, including benzodiazepines (BZDs), Z-drugs (ZDs), and other medications, was also collected through personal interviews. Statistical analyses using trend analysis and binomial logistic regression analysis with two covariate models were performed to investigate the association between sleep medication and cognitive decline. A total of 869 participants were enrolled, and 12.5% of them were taking sleep medication. Trend analysis showed a significant association between BZD and/or ZD use and cognitive impairment (p = 0.003). Binary logistic regression analysis with multivariate adjustment showed that BZD and/or ZD users had 1.66 times higher odds ratio of cognitive decline compared with non-users (95% confidence interval: 1.07–2.56, p = 0.023). This study demonstrated that sleep medication is associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults. The findings are important to advance cognitive healthcare management for older adults.