bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development and validation of a cost-effective DIY simulation model for McDonald cerclage training
Authors: Buechel Johanna , Kalisz Adam , Herbert Saskia-Laureen , Scherer-Quenzer Anne , Blau-Schneider Bettina , Starrach Teresa , Kraft Katrina , Wöckel Achim , Pecks Ulrich , Kiesel Matthias 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Purpose
The prevention of preterm birth is a challenging task for obstetricians. Cervical cerclage, used as both a primary and secondary prevention method for spontaneous preterm birth, is a crucial surgical intervention. It is essential that obstetricians can learn this procedure in a simulated environment before performing the stitches on high-risk patients. This study aimed to develop a simulator based on 3D printing and evaluate its validity for clinical training.

Methods
The objectives of this study were (1) to design and construct a cost-effective simulator for McDonald cerclage with two different cervix models—a closed cervix and a cervix with bulging membranes—using common material from a DIY store and 3D printing technology and (2) to validate its effectiveness through feedback from learners and experts in cervical cerclage. The self-made simulator was evaluated by obstetricians using a questionnaire with Likert scale.

Results
Obstetricians and gynecologists assessed the simulator and found it useful for learning and practicing cervical cerclage. The simulator was deemed valuable for skill training.

Conclusion
Cervical cerclage is a complex procedure that should be mastered through simulation rather than initial practice on real patients. Our simulator is a cost-effective model suitable for various clinical settings. It has been validated by obstetricians for both preventive and therapeutic cerclage, demonstrating its efficacy for training in cerclage techniques. Future research should focus on less skilled obstetricians and gynecologists and investigate how repeated use of the simulator can enhance their performance in cerclage stitching.
Cystinosis metabolic bone disease: inflammatory profile in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells and derived osteoclasts
Authors: Alioli Candide , Greco Marcella , Méaux Marie-Noëlle , Harambat Jérome , Topaloglu Rezan , Nobili François , Bertholet-Thomas Aurélia , Rousset-Rouviere Caroline , Portefaix Aurélie , Dumortier Claire , Emma Francesco , Machuca-Gayet Irma , Bacchetta Justine 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Cystinosis metabolic bone disease (CMBD) is an emerging concept in infantile nephropathic cystinosis, patients presenting with bone pains, fractures, and deformations during teenage or early adulthood. The underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Our aim was to explore the pro-inflammatory profile of osteoclastic lineage in cystinotic patients. We obtained blood samples from 14 cystinotic patients and 10 pediatric healthy controls. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated and used to explore by RT-qPCR the transcript expression of 8 inflammatory markers (Il-6, Il-8, Il-1β, CXCL1, CCL2/MCP-1, CXCR3, Il-1 Receptor, Il-6 Receptor). In addition, when possible, PBMCs were differentiated into osteoclasts for further experiments. The expression of Il-6, IL-8, CXCR3, and CCL2/MCP-1 was significantly increased in PBMCs from cystinotic patients. We also explored the expression of Il-1 Receptor and Il-6 Receptor, two major pro-osteoclastic signal inducers, in osteoclasts differentiated from PBMCs from controls (N = 3) and patients (N = 4). The expression of IL-1 Receptor (but not IL-6 receptor) was increased in osteoclasts obtained from cystinotic patients.

Conclusion: There is an inflammatory profile in PBMCs and osteoclastic lineage in cells obtained from cystinotic patients. CXCR3 and MCP-1 stimulate migration and activation of macrophages, that may explain the previously reported local increased osteoclastogenesis. The osteoclastic overexpression of IL-1 Receptor is a relevant observation in the field since blocking Il-1β signaling has recently been proposed as a novel therapeutic approach to improve muscular wasting in this orphan disease.

What is Known:

• Cystinosis metabolic bone disease (CMBD), an emerging concept with unclear underlying mechanisms, induces bone pains, fractures and deformations in patients with cystinosis.

• Blocking Il-1β signaling may be a novel therapeutic approach to improve muscular wasting in cystinosis.

What is New:

• There is an inflammatory profile in PBMCs and osteoclastic lineage in cells obtained from cystinotic patients, with an over-expression of IL-1 Receptor in osteoclasts.

• We provide another experimental rationale to propose targeted anti-inflammatory therapies in cystinotic patients with severe bone disease.
Diversity of hirudin and hirudin-like factor genes in the North-African medicinal leech, Hirudo troctina
Authors: Ahmed Raja Ben , Abilov Amina , Müller Christian 
Published: November 2024

AbstractMedicinal leeches of the genus Hirudo inhabit large areas of the Palaearctic realm. The distribution range of Hirudo troctina includes the southern Iberian peninsula and the northwestern regions of Africa. H. troctina is used for medical purposes, but only very little is known about the components of its salivary gland secretion. Hirudins, bivalent inhibitors of thrombin, are probably the best known leech-derived bioactive factors. Hirudin-like factors (HLFs) represent another class of salivary gland components that share characteristic genetic and structural markers with hirudins. Hirudin is not a single entity but exists in at least four different variants. However, there are differences among the European members of the genus Hirudo with respect to the actual number of hirudin and HLF genes that are present within their genomes. Here, we describe the identification and molecular cloning of 11 genes that encode for putative hirudin and HLF variants in H. troctina. Three of the genes consist of exons and introns that originate from different “archetype” genes and are likely the result of recombination events. The diversity of hirudin and HLF genes in H. troctina surpasses that of all other European members of the genus Hirudo. The putative hirudin variants and representatives of the HLFs of H. troctina were expressed as recombinant proteins, purified and functionally characterized for their thrombin-inhibiting potencies. Phylogenetic analyses based on hirudin and HLF gene sequences of the leech genera Hirudo, Hirudinaria, and Whitmania supported the hypothesis that hirudins and HLFs diverged early in leech evolution.
Robotic minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair with the Dexter robotic system™: A prospective multicenter clinical investigation
Authors: Gantner Lukas , Mignot Hubert , Pochhammer Julius , Grieder Felix , Breitenstein Stefan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Robot-assisted transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair (rTAPP) has been established with various robotic platforms. The Dexter robotic system is an open platform consisting of a sterile surgeon’s console, two robotic instrument arms, and one robotic endoscope arm. This study aimed to confirm the perioperative and early postoperative safety and clinical performance of the Dexter system in patients undergoing primary transperitoneal inguinal hernia repair.

Methods
The primary objectives of this multicenter study conducted at three centers in France, Germany, and Switzerland were to document the successful completion of rTAPP procedures and the occurrence of serious adverse events (Clavien–Dindo grades III–V), device-related events up to 30 days post-surgery. The procedures were performed by three surgeons with varying levels of experience in robotic systems.

Results
50 patients with a median age of 62.5 years (IQR 51.0–72.0) and BMI of 25.1 kg/cm2 (IQR 23.5–28.7), respectively, underwent inguinal hernia repair (33 unilateral, 17 bilateral). All surgeries were successfully completed using three standard laparoscopy trocars. There were no conversions to open surgery, intraoperative complications or device deficiencies. The median skin-to-skin operative time was 50 min (IQR 45–60) for unilateral hernias and 96 min (IQR 84–105) for bilateral hernias. The median console time was 30 min (IQR 26–41) for unilateral and 66 min (IQR 60–77) for bilateral hernias. Twenty-six patients were discharged on the day of surgery, and 22 on postoperative day 1.

Conclusion
This study confirmed the use of the Dexter system in rTAPP was feasible and safe in multicenter cohorts, with operative times consistent with the literature on other robotic platforms. Our data demonstrated the accessibility of this new robotic approach, even when adopted by surgeons new to robotics. The Dexter system emerged as a valuable device in the hernia repair toolkit for both experienced robotic surgeons and those new to the field.
Upcoming multi-visceral robotic surgery systems: a SAGES review
Authors: Sarin Ankit , Samreen Sarah , Moffett Jennifer M. , Inga-Zapata Edmundo , Bianco Francesco , Alkhamesi Nawar A. , Owen Jacob D. , Shahi Niti , DeLong Jonathan C. , Stefanidis Dimitrios , Schlachta Christopher M. , Sylla Patricia , Azagury Dan E. ,   for The SAGES Robotic Platforms Working Group
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Robotic surgical procedures continue to increase both in the United States (US) and worldwide. Several novel robotic surgical platforms are under development or undergoing regulatory approval. This review explores robotic platforms that are expected to reach US consumers within the next 2–3 years.

Methods
The SAGES Robotic Platforms Working Group identified robotic surgery platforms in various stages of development and selected multi-visceral systems nearing or completing the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval process. We outline key system components including architecture, unique features, development status, regulatory approval, and expected markets.

Results
We identified twenty robotic platforms that met our selection criteria. Ten companies were based in North America, and ten were based in Europe or Asia. Each system is described in detail and key features are summarized in table form for easy comparison.

Conclusion
The emergence of novel robotic surgical platforms represents an important evolution in the growth of minimally invasive surgery. Increased competition has the potential to bring value to surgical patients by stimulating innovation and driving down cost. The impact of these platforms remains to be determined, but the continued growth of robotic surgery seems to be all but assured.
Haptics in social interaction with agents and avatars in virtual reality: a systematic review
Authors: Jacucci Giulio , Bellucci Andrea , Ahmed Imtiaj , Harjunen Ville , Spape Michiel , Ravaja Niklas 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIncorporating the sense of touch through haptics in virtual spaces enables people to communicate emotions and engage in more naturalistic and meaningful social interactions. Advances in haptics and virtual reality technologies and applications have been essential to support researchers in the exploration of mediated social touch in virtual environments. The aim of this work is to review the last decade of research on haptics and virtual reality technologies investigating social touch behavior between human avatars as well as between humans and non-human virtual agents. Our systematic review organizes the variety of the conducted research in three dimensions: the context against which mediated social touch is studied, the types of haptics and virtual reality technology used, and empirical studies including data collected and outcome measures. We discuss the results of the analysis of the three dimensions and present implications for future research. We pinpoint the importance of considering in-the-wild studies and emerging issues on social virtual reality; understanding human touch perception for people with different physical and cognitive abilities, and; creating development tools to broaden the exploration of advanced technological setups.
Berberine-loaded iron oxide nanoparticles alleviate cuprizone-induced astrocytic reactivity in a rat model of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ibrahim Fouad Ghadha , Mabrouk Mostafa , El-Sayed Sara A. M. , Abdelhameed Mohamed F. , Rizk Maha Z. , Beherei Hanan H. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Berberine (BBN) is a naturally occurring alkaloid as a secondary metabolite in many plants and exhibits several benefits including neuroprotective activities. However, data on the neuromodulating potential of nanoformulated BBN are still lacking. In the present study, BBN loaded within iron oxide nanoparticles (BBN-IONP) were prepared and characterized by transmission electron microscopy FTIR, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy particle-size distribution, zeta potential, and HPLC. The remyelinating neuroprotective potential of BBN-IONP relative to free BBN was evaluated against cuprizone (CPZ)-induced neurotoxicity (rats administered 0.2% CPZ powder (w/w) for five weeks). CPZ rats were treated with either free BBN or IONP-BBN (50 mg/kg/day, orally) for 14 days. Cognitive function was estimated using Y-maze. Biochemically, total antioxidant capacity lipid peroxides and reduced glutathione in the brain tissue, as well as, serum interferon-gamma levels were estimated. Moreover, the genetic expression contents of myelin basic protein Matrix metallopeptidase-9 Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and S100β were measured. The histopathological patterns and immunohistochemical assessment of Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein in both cerebral cortex and hippocampus CA1 regions were investigated. CPZ-rats treated with either free BBN or IONP-BBN demonstrated memory restoring, anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-astrocytic, and remyelinating activities. Comparing free BBN with IONP-BBN revealed that the latter altered the neuromodulating activities of BBN, showing superior neuroprotective activities of IONP-BBN relative to BBN. In conclusion, both forms of BBN possess neuroprotective potential. However, the use of IONPs for brain delivery and the safety of these nano-based forms need further investigation.
Error Analysis with Polynomial Dependence on $$\varepsilon ^{-1}$$ in SAV Methods for the Cahn-Hilliard Equation
Authors: Ma Shu , Qiu Weifeng , Yang Xiaofeng 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The optimal error estimate that depends only on the polynomial degree of

$$ \varepsilon ^{-1}$$

ε

-
1

is established for the temporal semi-discrete scheme of the Cahn-Hilliard equation based on the scalar auxiliary variable (SAV) formulation. The key to our analysis is converting the structure of the SAV time-stepping scheme back to a form compatible with the original format of the Cahn-Hilliard equation, which makes it feasible to use spectral estimates to handle the nonlinear term. Based on the transformation of the SAV numerical scheme, the optimal error estimate for the temporal semi-discrete scheme which depends only on the low polynomial order of

$$\varepsilon ^{-1}$$

ε

-
1

instead of the exponential order, is derived by using mathematical induction, spectral arguments, and the superconvergence properties of some nonlinear terms. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the discrete energy decay property and validate our theoretical convergence analysis.
MRI characteristics of ovarian metastasis: differentiation from stomach and colorectal cancer
Authors: Takai Yukiko , Kato Hiroki , Kawaguchi Masaya , Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Kikuno Kyoko , Furui Tatsuro , Isobe Masanori , Noda Yoshifumi , Hyodo Fuminori , Matsuo Masayuki 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To evaluate the efficacy of MRI findings for differentiating between ovarian metastasis from stomach cancer (OMSC) and colorectal cancer (OMCC).

Methods
Twenty-six patients with histopathologically proven ovarian metastasis (n = 8 with 12 OMSCs and n = 18 with 25 OMCCs) were enrolled in the study. All patients had undergone pelvic MRI before surgery. We retrospectively reviewed MRI findings and compared them between the two pathologies. The black scrunchie sign was defined as a thick (> 5 mm) and lobulated hypointense rim (> 180°) with central hyperintense areas on T2-weighted images.

Results
Predominantly solid lesions (100% vs. 20%, p < 0.01), black scrunchie sign (33% vs. 0%, p < 0.01), and flow void (67% vs. 20%, p < 0.01) were frequently observed in OMSCs than in OMCCs. The signal intensity ratio of solid components on T2-weighted images (3.30 ± 0.70 vs. 2.52 ± 0.77, p < 0.01) and gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted images (2.21 ± 0.57 vs. 1.43 ± 0.32, p < 0.01) were significantly higher in OMSCs than in OMCCs. Furthermore, hyperintense areas within cystic components on T1-weighted images (71% vs. 18%, p < 0.01) and stained-glass appearance (44% vs. 0%, p < 0.01) were frequently observed in OMCCs than in OMSCs.

Conclusion
The black scrunchie sign was only observed in OMSCs. OMSCs always exhibited predominantly solid lesions and had higher signal intensity of solid components on T2- and gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted images. OMCCs usually presented as cystic lesions, usually accompanied by hyperintense areas within the cystic components on T1-weighted images.
Risk factors of non-diagnostic percutaneous liver tumor biopsy: a single-center retrospective analysis of 938 biopsies based on cause of error
Authors: Kimura Shintaro , Sone Miyuki , Sugawara Shunsuke , Itou Chihiro , Oshima Takumi , Ozawa Mizuki , Nakama Rakuhei , Murakami Sho , Matsui Yoshiyuki , Arai Yasuaki , Kusumoto Masahiko 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To evaluate the risk factors of non-diagnostic results based on cause of error in liver tumor biopsy.

Materials and methods
This single-institution, retrospective study included 843 patients [445 men, 398 women; median age, 67 years] who underwent a total of 938 liver tumor biopsies between April 2018 and September 2022. An 18-G cutting biopsy needle with a 17-G introducer needle was used. Ultrasound was used as the first choice for image guidance, and computed tomography was alternatively or complementarily used only for tumors with poor ultrasound visibility. Non-diagnostic biopsies were divided into two groups depending on the cause of error, either technical or targeting error. Biopsies in which the biopsy needle did not hit the target tumor were classified as technical error. Biopsies in which insufficient tissue was obtained due to necrosis or degeneration despite the biopsy needle hitting the target tumor were classified as targeting error. This classification was based on pre-procedural enhanced-imaging, intro-procedural imaging, and pathological findings. Statistical analysis was performed using binary logistic regression.

Results
The non-diagnostic rate was 4.6%. Twenty-six and seventeen biopsies were classified as technical and targeting errors, respectively. In the technical error group, tumor size ≤ 17 mm and computed tomography-assisted biopsy due to poor ultrasound visibility were identified as risk factors (p < 0.001 and p = 0.021, respectively), and the tumors with both factors had a significantly high risk of technical error compared to those without both factors (non-diagnostic rate: 17.2 vs 1.1%, p < 0.001). In the targeting error group, tumor size ≥ 42 mm was identified as a risk factor (p = 0.003).

Conclusion
Tumor size ≤ 17 mm and computed tomography-assisted biopsy due to poor ultrasound visibility were risk factors for technical error, and tumor size ≥ 42 mm was a risk factor for targeting error in liver tumor biopsies.
Pathways to commercial building plug and process load efficiency and control
Authors: Van Sant Amy , Ghatpande Omkar , Tuttle Robin , Trenbath Kim 
Published: November 2024

AbstractTo accomplish net-zero carbon emissions in the built environment by 2050, we must equitably decarbonize commercial buildings, including reducing plug and process loads (PPLs). PPLs are plug-in or hardwired electric and gas loads that are not associated with major building end uses like lighting and HVAC. Research shows PPL energy reduction strategies and control technologies have the potential to save energy. But even when implemented, these savings have rarely been achieved and there has not been widespread uptake in U.S. commercial buildings. We investigate why these technologies and strategies have not seen widespread adoption and identify behavior and technology pathways to increase PPL reduction in U.S. commercial buildings. We examined behaviors of commercial building stakeholders through 44 interviews and cross-referenced qualitative analysis findings with in-depth technical knowledge of existing PPL control technologies and reduction strategies. PPL control implementation must be paired with management strategies, such as occupant engagement and training, to achieve optimal savings, and best practices should be disseminated across the industry. We found that increasing access to cost and energy savings data will promote uptake of PPL control technologies and allow designers to better incorporate PPLs into building design. Improving access to funding for PPL energy efficiency projects and addressing the split-incentive problem will increase adoption of PPL efficiency and control. Code bodies should continue to include PPL monitoring and reduction measures in energy codes. Key building stakeholders, including cybersecurity and information technology teams, should be involved in PPL monitoring and reduction strategy processes for successful implementation.
Spatial Autocorrelation Methods in Identifying Migration Patterns: Case Study of Slovakia
Authors: Pregi Loránt , Novotný Ladislav 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe collapse of the socialist regime led to significant changes in migration patterns, garnering considerable attention in geographical research. However, despite the increased interest, many studies on internal migration lack a detailed analysis of its spatial aspects. Spatial autocorrelation methods can reveal spatial patterns, but so far they have not been applied in the detailed research of internal migration in post-socialist countries. The aim of this study is to explore the spatial patterns of internal migration with regard to intra-regional and inter-regional migration processes using selected indicators of spatial autocorrelation (Global Moran’s I, Anselin local Moran’s I and Getis-Ord Gi* statistic) with Slovakia as a case study. A partial goal is to evaluate the benefits of applying these methods in the assessment of internal migration. Local indicators of spatial autocorrelation demonstrated significant differentiation of both intra-regional and inter-regional migration processes. The dominant intra-regional process is the decentralization of the population, which is very intensive in the regions of the largest towns and cities. Inter-regional migration displays spatial polarisation, emphasizing the importance of the location of key economic centres. The methodology employed in this study clearly displays the clusters of municipalities with above-average and below-average values. This approach enables the identification and cartographic interpretation of specific municipalities where migration contributes the most to the spatial redistribution of the population. The study serves as a valuable framework for similar analyses, emphasizing the broader applicability of spatial autocorrelation methods in studying migration patterns.