bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Robot-assisted repair of ureteral stricture
Authors: Xu Mu-Yang , Song Zheng-yao , Liang Chao-Zhao 
Published: September 2024

AbstractAs robot-assisted laparoscopic techniques continue to advance, becoming increasingly complex and refined, there has been significant progress in the minimally invasive treatment of ureteral strictures. This abstract aims to provide an overview and description of various surgical techniques that utilize robots for repairing ureteral strictures. We have summarized the progression of these surgical methods and highlighted the latest advancements in the procedures. When compared to open surgery, robot-assisted reconstruction techniques demonstrate superior functional outcomes, fewer postoperative complications, and a faster recovery in the treatment of ureteral strictures. This abstract aims to provide an overview and description of various surgical techniques utilizing robots to repair ureteral strictures. Robotic ureteral stricture correction has emerged as a valuable therapeutic option, particularly when endoscopic procedures are not feasible. Compared to traditional open surgery, robotic methods exhibit superior therapeutic effectiveness, fewer postoperative complications, and accelerated recovery. Reconstructive procedures such as reimplantation, psoas hitch, Boari flap, ureter-to-ureter anastomosis, appendix graft, buccal mucosa graft (BMG), ileal transplantation, or kidney autotransplantation can be performed depending on the extent and location of the stricture. Robotic surgical techniques also offer advantages, such as an expanded field of vision and the incorporation of supplementary technologies such as FireflyTM, indocyanine green (ICG), and near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging. However, further long-term, multicenter investigations are necessary to validate the positive findings reported in existing case series. Compared with open surgery, robot-assisted reconstruction techniques yield superior functional outcomes, fewer postoperative complications, and accelerated recovery for the treatment of ureteral strictures.
Robot-assisted laparoscopic Anderson–Hynes pyeloplasty for ureteropelvic junction obstruction
Authors: Bersang Ann Kortbæk , Rashu Badal Sheikho , Niebuhr Malene Hartwig , Fode Mikkel , Thomsen Frederik Ferløv 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Objectives
To explore surgical, functional, and symptomatic outcomes in a series of patients who underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic Anderson–Hynes pyeloplasty (RALP) for ureteropelvic junction obstruction using the DaVinci Si surgical robotic system.

Methods
Retrospective study including patients aged 16 years or older who underwent RALP from June 2016 to December2021. The following outcomes were recorded: operative outcome and complications [classified according to the Clavien–Dindo Classification (CD)] within 30 days of the procedure as well as 1 year success rate and restenosis during follow-up.

Results
In total, 194 patients were available for analyses with a median follow-up of 4.5 (IQR 3.0-6.0) years. The primary indications were loss of kidney function (45%), pain (36%), infection (11%), kidney stone (6%), and others (2%). The median operation time was 134 min (IQR 112-159), the median length of stay was 2 days (IQR 2-2), and the median time with double-j stent postoperatively was 24 days (IQR 22-27). Overall, 65 out of 194 patients (33%) experienced a postoperative complication (12% CD I, 13% CD II, 8% CD IIIa or IIIb). The 1 year success rate was 92% for patients treated because of deteriorating renal function, 78% for patients treated because of symptoms, 82% for patients treated because of infections, and 78% for patients treated because of kidney stones. Seven percent of the patients presented a recurrent ureteropelvic junction stricture during follow-up.

Conclusions
In our experience, robot-assisted laparoscopic Anderson–Hynes pyeloplasty performed with the DaVinci Si system is a safe with a few major complications and acceptable success rate.
Medtronic’s Hugo™ robotic surgery system for robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: a systematic review of current worldwide experiences
Authors: Tehrani Mehrshad Sultani , Shepherd Andrew , Challacombe Ben 
Published: September 2024

AbstractUrology’s pioneering role in surgical innovations, from cystoscopy to laparoscopic surgery, culminated in the twenty-first-century advent of robotic surgery. The dominant da Vinci® system faced new competition following its 2019 patent expiration. Medtronic’s Hugo™ system emerged. Its growing global adoption, especially in robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), necessitates a systematic review, evaluating safety, feasibility, and comparison with established systems. A comprehensive search identified eligible studies of the Hugo™ robotic platform for RARP, presenting their current experiences. Following systematic screening, quality of eligible studies was assessed using ROBINS-I. Results then underwent a narrative synthesis. This systematic review analysed 19 eligible studies, consisting of 9 comparative and 10 single arm studies. Due to the non-randomised nature of the studies, a moderate risk of bias was concluded in most. On account of the high heterogeneity between studies, a narrative synthesis of data was enacted; categorised into themes relating to operative timings, transfer of skills, patient demographics, plus safety and feasibility. Eligible studies demonstrated the promise of the Hugo™ platform within these themes, in comparison to currently available platforms. Despite a paucity of high-quality randomised controlled trials, available evidence indicates Hugo™ as a promising, safe alternative for RARP. Positive experiences across diverse centres and surgeons revealed minimal differences in surgical outcomes compared to the established da Vinci® system, fostering global Hugo™ adoption. Despite evidence demonstrating Hugo™ safety and comparability, the review underscores the scarcity of high-quality evidence, attributing it to early stage implementation challenges.
Enhancing Close Quarters Battle Performance—The Effect of a Compact Training on the Tactical Performance and Stress Response of Non-Specialized and Special Forces
Authors: Ibrahim Fabio , Feildboy Eliran , Huber Yannik , Nagy David , Hennig Jürgen , Herzberg Philipp Yorck 
Published: September 2024

AbstractClose Quarters Battle (CQB) is a highly challenging and relevant ability, especially with the increasing frequency of urban operations. Evaluating the impact of CQB training on performance and stress response can inform effective training approaches for different training levels. This study assessed the effects of a compact CQB training program on the tactical performance and physiological stress responses of police special forces and soldiers. A sample of N = 35 participants (n = 18 police special forces) conducted a CQB training and a pre- and post-CQB performance test (standardized eye-tracking and video-based evaluation by two experts). The stress response was measured during (heart rate), before, and after CQB (salivary αlpha-amylase and cortisol samples). The results indicated that the training enhanced the performance of specialized and non-specialized forces, particularly evident in tactical behavior, while response time and gaze behavior did not improve. Stress responses decreased post-training, and a positive correlation was found between the anticipatory stress response and pre-training performance. A CQB compact training proved effective in performance enhancement and stress reduction, with gaze behavior indicating in-depth CQB expertise. Moreover, the results indicated that a heightened anticipatory stress response enhances performance. These insights support the development of CQB training programs tailored for both novices and experts, using tactical behavior, weapon handling, gaze behavior, and response time as evaluation metrics. Gaze behavior, in particular, proved to be a reliable indicator of CQB mastery and can be leveraged for personnel selection and training assessments.
Evaluating Strategies to Assess the Differentiation Potential of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells: A Review, Analysis and Call for Innovation
Authors: Smith Lucy , Quelch-Cliffe Rebecca , Liu Felicity , Aguilar Alejandro Hidalgo , Przyborski Stefan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells have the ability to differentiate into all cells and tissues within the human body, and as a result they are attractive resources for use in basic research, drug discovery and regenerative medicine. In order to successfully achieve this application, starting cell sources ideally require in-depth characterisation to confirm their pluripotent status and their ability to differentiate into tissues representative of the three developmental germ layers. Many different methods to assess potency are employed, each having its own distinct advantages and limitations. Some aspects of this characterisation process are not always well standardised, particularly techniques used to assess pluripotency as a function. In this article, we consider the methods used to establish cellular pluripotency and subsequently analyse characterisation data for over 1590 human pluripotent cell lines from publicly available repositories in the UK and USA. In particular, we focus on the teratoma xenograft assay, its use and protocols, demonstrating the level of variation and the frequency with which it is used. Finally, we reflect on the implications of the findings, and suggest in vitro alternatives using modern innovative technology as a way forward.

Graphical Abstract
Tumor microenvironment as a complex milieu driving cancer progression: a mini review
Authors: Li Zhengrui , Li Jing , Bai Xiaolei , Huang Xufeng , Wang Qi 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIt has been spotlighted that the Tumor Microenvironment (TME) is crucial for comprehending cancer progression and therapeutic resistance. Therefore, this comprehensive review elucidates the intricate architecture of the TME, which encompasses tumor cells, immune components, support cells, and a myriad of bioactive molecules. These constituents collectively foster dynamic interactions that underpin tumor growth, metastasis, and nuanced responses to anticancer therapies. Notably, the TME’s role extends beyond mere physical support, serving as a critical mediator in cancer-cell evolution, immune modulation, and treatment outcomes. Innovations targeting the TME, including strategies focused on the vasculature, immune checkpoints, and T-cell therapies, have forged new pathways for clinical intervention. However, the heterogeneity and complexity of the TME present significant challenges, necessitating deeper exploration of its components and their interplay to enhance therapeutic efficacy. This review underscores the imperative for integrated research strategies that amalgamate insights from tumor biology, immunology, and systems biology. Such an approach aims to refine cancer treatments and improve patient prognoses by exploiting the TME’s complexity.
Cultivating flexibility: the relationship between flexible organizational values, participation climate, and job attitudes from an employee perspective
Authors: Hafstad Marius D. , Bang Henning , Bjørkli Cato , Myklebust Trond , Fostervold Knut Inge 
Published: October 2024

AbstractAdopting a flexible organizational culture have the potential to be a remedy for organizations that face globalization, technological advancements, and higher expectations from the workforce. However, research on the mechanism between organizational culture and its outcomes remain understudied. This study adopts an employee-centric approach, suggesting that employees’ perception of a participation climate act as a mediator between flexible organizational culture values (clan and adhocracy values) and employees’ organizational commitment and readiness for change. Cross-sectional data was collected from 619 police employees and analyzed by a two-step structural equation modeling approach. The results supports participation climate as a mediator. Participation climate partially mediated the relationship between clan culture and organizational commitment, adhocracy culture and organizational commitment, and adhocracy culture and readiness for change. Full mediation was found for the relationship between clan culture and readiness for change. Theoretically, this study provides supporting evidence of a relationship between employees’ perceptions of flexible organizational values and a climate for participation, grounded in the notion that organizational climate is the surface level manifestation of organizational culture. Practically, the results offer valuable insight for leaders and organizations who seek knowledge on flexible values, participation climate, employee commitment and readiness for change.
Gender Stereotypes as Related to Language Learning Engagement: Mediating Roles of Motivational Beliefs and Emotional Factors
Authors: Li Jiajing , Wang Chuang , Shen Ziyou 
Published: September 2024

AbstractMost people view language learning as a feminine domain and take it for granted that females have better performance in foreign language learning. Despite researchers’ efforts in uncovering the phenomenon of gender stereotypes in language learning, it remains unclear: (1) whether there were differences in language learning stereotypes and their correlates across genders; (2) whether gender stereotypes impinge on Chinese English as a foreign language (EFL) learners’ engagement through the mediating role of motivational beliefs and emotional factors. This study examined the gender differences in and the relationships among gender stereotypes, motivational beliefs (i.e., task values and competence beliefs), emotional factors (i.e., enjoyment and anxiety), and language learning engagement with 473 university EFL learners in China. Results of multivariate analyses of variance failed to see differences in gender stereotypes between females and males, both viewing foreign language learning as a feminine domain. Females exhibited significantly higher levels of motivational beliefs and enjoyment in learning English. Using structural equation modeling, we found that gender stereotypes indirectly predicted learners’ engagement via motivational beliefs and emotional factors. Future directions and pedagogical implications are discussed.
Glucocorticoid treatment and adrenal suppression in children: current view and open issues
Authors: Improda Nicola , Chioma Laura , Capalbo Donatella , Bizzarri Carla , Salerno Mariacarolina 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Glucocorticoids (GCs) are commonly used for several acute and chronic pediatric diseases. However, chronic treatment may result in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) dysfunction. Glucocorticoid-induced adrenal insufficiency (GI-AI) is indeed the most frequent cause of adrenal insufficiency (AI) in children, possibly resulting in a life-threatening event such as adrenal crisis (AC). It is generally underestimated, especially when using non-systemic glucocorticoid formulations. This review aims at summarizing current evidence on the effects of long-term GC treatment on the HPA axis, management of GC tapering and assessment of the HPA recovery.

Methods
We conducted a narrative review of the relevant literature focusing on pathogenic mechanisms, predictive factors, diagnosis and treatment of GI-AI.

Results
All types of GCs, whatever the route of administration, may have suppressive effects on the HPA axis, especially when compounds with higher potency and long half-life are used. Moreover, chronic GC administration is the most common cause of Cushing syndrome in children. In order to overcome the risk of GI-AI, slow withdrawal of GCs is necessary. When approaching the replacement dose, it is recommended to switch to shorter half-life formulations such as hydrocortisone. Assessment of HPA axis recovery with basal and stimulated cortisol levels may help detecting children at risk of AC that may require hydrocortisone supplementation.

Conclusion
The management of GI-AI in children is challenging and many areas of uncertainty remain. Improving the knowledge on long-term GC effects on HPA in children, the management of steroid discontinuation and emergency dosing may help preventing GI-AI symptoms and acute hospital admission for AC.
Mini Self-Retrieval Practices of Skeletal Muscles in the Human Gross Anatomy Course
Authors: Lu Yuefeng , Boadum Oheneba 
Published: September 2024

AbstractStudents in health professional studies are often faced with the daunting task of memorizing large volumes of information in a limited time. Gross anatomy is usually the first course students may take in their curriculum, and the volume and complexity of anatomical information students must memorize, including muscle names, become overwhelming. Here, we outline a teaching method and pedagogical application of self-retrieval in gross anatomy courses, where students were provided with a number system that served as goals and cues for easy retrieval of muscle names for different anatomical regions.
Mechanical, durability and microstructure properties of self-healing concrete utilizing agro-industrial waste: a critical review
Authors: Kadamba Siddharth , Blesson S. , Rao A. U. , Kamath Muralidhar , Tantri Adithya 
Published: September 2024

AbstractSelf-healing concrete is an innovative solution to improve durability issues in traditional concrete structures. The review focuses on a novel approach in self-healing concrete technology by partially replacing cement with agro-industrial waste, which has received less attention in existing literature. The use of agro-industrial waste aims at increasing the environmental sustainability of concrete production, it also introduces unique properties that contribute to the self-healing process. The literature of various agro-industrial waste materials like coffee husk ash (CHA), rice husk ash (RHA), sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA), fly ash, and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), as a potential replacement for cement. The waste materials that act as supplementary cementitious materials and possess inherent healing properties due to their chemical composition. To evaluate the processes governing this precipitation, this paper discusses the impact of incorporating agro-industrial waste on bacterial concrete's mechanical, durability, and self-healing performance. The present work sheds a light on various factors of bacterial concrete such as types of bacteria and dosage, mix proportion and the outcome of mechanical and durability tests. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the need for comprehensive investigations on self-healing concrete's long-term performance and scalability with agro-industrial waste. The limited availability of studies on use for future research to explore deeper into the connection between agro-industrial waste and self-healing concrete, opening the door to more durable and sustainable building materials.
Graphical abstract
Changes in Drought Characteristics and Heatwave Propagation Over Groundwater Basins in Australia
Authors: Ndehedehe Christopher E. , Adeyeri Oluwafemi E. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe commitment to reduce emissions in global climate change science meetings shows collective responsibility to mitigate the risk of climatic extremes in the Anthropocene. However, growing anthropogenic footprint and climate change will exacerbate the impacts of extreme events on freshwater systems, necessitating the need to enhance contemporary understanding of future changes in drought characteristics (e.g., severity, duration, etc.) and climatic extremes in groundwater basins to assess their implications for water supplies and allocation. Using bias-corrected ensemble mean of nine Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) models, drought characteristics are assessed for two future socio-economic scenarios (SSP 370 and 585). Two drought indicators (standardised precipitation index and standardised runoff index) were combined with Heatwave total length (HWTL) to measure changes in drought characteristics and heatwave propagation, respectively, over four groundwater basins (South West Western Australia-SWWA; Murray Darling Basin-MDB; Cambrian Limestone Aquifer-CLA; and South Australia-SA) in Australia. Our findings indicate that as Australian summers become considerably warmer, particularly toward the late twenty-first century, the relationship between rainfall and runoff extremes, which exhibited strong connections historically (e.g., in CLA; r = 0.87), will vary in the future. This relationship is expected to increase in SA, showing stronger correlations (r = 0.67 and 0.82 for SSP 370 and SSP 585, respectively) but decrease in SWWA (r = 0.43 and 0.20, for SSP 370 and SSP 585, respectively). In the MDB, heatwaves are projected to propagate more rapidly into hydrological drought during summer and autumn under the SSP 585 scenario. Even though drought-affected areas are expected to decline in between decades across Australia, the duration and intensity in some locations show no signs of reduction. Increasing drought duration and intensity could limit freshwater availability, and such impact can potentially be exacerbated by the observed shifts and considerable changes in the propagation time of meteorological drought and HTWL to hydrological drought in some basins.