bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Endocrine sequelae after pediatric craniopharyngioma treatment: a single-center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Papy Marie , Jacobs Sandra , Rochtus Anne 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Craniopharyngiomas (CP) are rare brain tumors with a low mortality rate, but with significant morbidity, in part due to the various long-term endocrine sequelae related to hypothalamic/pituitary deficiencies. Our objective was to assess the prevalence of endocrine dysfunction and outcome after treatment of CP at our institution and to apply the novel diagnostic criteria for hypothalamic syndrome (HS). In addition, we give an overview of treatments already attempted for hypothalamic obesity (HO).

Methods
This retrospective cohort study included children treated and followed up for CP at the pediatric oncology and endocrinology department at University Hospitals Leuven between January 2000 and December 2023. Clinical and endocrine characteristics were collected during a five-year period following diagnosis of CP. The Müller radiological criteria and the novel diagnostic criteria for HS were applied. A brief literature review regarding treatments already attempted for HO was conducted.

Results
Fifteen patients with pediatric CP were included in the study, all of whom developed endocrine sequelae over time. Seven patients (47 %) presented with at least one hormonal deficit, and eight patients (53 %) developed panhypopituitarism over time. HO was clinically confirmed in nine patients (60 %). 10 patients (67 %) met the diagnostic criteria for HS. Currently, no overall effective treatment strategies are available for HO.

Conclusions
Long-term endocrine sequelae and HO are highly prevalent in pediatric CP. Continuing multidisciplinary care to improve the quality of life of these patients is necessary. International cooperation and further long-term prospective trials for the treatment of HO are needed.
The crystal structure of the co-crystal isonicotinamide · terephthalic acid, C8H6O4·2(C6H6N2O)
Authors: Bourletidis How Jeraldine Maire , Scheepers Matthew C. , Lemmerer Andreas , Smith Mark G. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
C8H6O4·2(C6H6N2O), monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 20.8371(8) Å, b = 5.2243(2) Å, c = 19.1062(7) Å, β = 118.8350(10)°, V = 1822.01(12) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0392, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1143, T = 173 K.
Optimizing inorganic blended fertilizer application for the maximum grain yield and profitability of bread wheat and food barley in Dawuro Zone, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Daemo Berhanu Bilate , Bore Wolancho Getahun , Ashango Arke Zeleke , Daniel Anito Hanna , Dalga Wakalto Dawit , Getaneh Lakew 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
In a specific area, fertilizer application for a crop depends on the soil type and profitability. Optimizing chemical fertilizer utilization in crop production is crucial from an environmental and economic point of view. However, there is limited information available on the optimum NPSB fertilizer rate for the production of wheat and barley in the study area. Thus, the study aimed to establish area-specific NPSB (18.9% N, 16.44% P, 6.95% S, and 0.1% B) blended fertilizer rate recommendations for the optimal grain yield and profitability of wheat and barley. The field experiment was conducted in two locations in the 2021 and 2022 cropping seasons using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The nine treatments included 0, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, 175, and 200 kg ha−1 NPSB fertilizer rates. Growth, yield, and yield component data in wheat and barley were collected from randomly selected individual plants and the net plot area. An economic analysis was conducted for grain yield using the procedure established by the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center. The analysis of variance results showed that blended fertilizer significantly (p < 0.01) affected plant height, number of productive tillers, spike length, number of kernels, thousand seed weight, biomass yield, grain yield, and harvest index traits. The application of a 150 kg ha−1 NPSB rate produced the highest grain yield (5419.0 kg ha−1) in wheat, whereas the application of a 125 kg ha−1 NPSB rate gave the maximum grain yield (4708.0 kg ha−1) in food barley. The economic analysis revealed that the application of a 150 kg ha−1 NPSB fertilizer rate for wheat gave the highest net benefits (309711.50 ETB ha−1) and marginal rate of return (MRR) (4096.96%), while the application of a 125 kg ha−1 NPSB fertilizer rate for barley obtained the highest net benefits (184424.00 ETB ha−1) and MRR (2195.39%). Therefore, to optimize the productivity and profitability of wheat and barley in the study area and similar agroecologies, farmers are recommended to use 150 kg ha⁻¹ NPSB for wheat and 125 kg ha⁻¹ NPSB for barley.
Algorithmic assessment of drag on thermally cut sheet metal edges
Authors: Stahl Janek , Zengl Simon , Frommknecht Andreas , Jauch Christian , Huber Marco F. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Drag is a key criterion in assessing the quality of thermally cut sheet metal edges, which is critical to the reliability of the final product. The evaluation of drag has been described qualitatively and quantitatively, but the scientific literature lacks a methodical description of algorithmic tracking of the drag lines themselves. This absence of a standardized approach has hindered the objective determination of drag. With recent advances in the field towards automated quality assessment aimed at autonomous adaptation of process parameters, the need for consistent, fast and reliable assessment of drag lines has become apparent. To address this gap, this study introduces an innovative drag line tracking algorithm, inspired by the behavior of fluid flowing towards the lowest points, to compute a generalized drag line for an edge with a homogeneous cutting pattern. The algorithm utilizes the height data of the measured cut edges as a data base for the assessment of the drag lines. The results indicate that the drag lines identified by the algorithm are not only subjectively accurate, but also show a strong correlation with human-annotated drag lines across several metrics. This work lays the foundation for the objective evaluation of drag by not only describing an algorithm for the consistent determination of drag lines, but also by presenting a tool for human annotation and suitable customized metrics. As a result, it contributes significantly to the comprehensive evaluation of edge quality and represents a step forward in the automatic optimization of process parameters and the improvement of cutting edge quality.
Mass-hunting in South-west Asia at the dawn of sedentism: new evidence from Şanlıurfa, south-east Türkiye
Authors: Şahin Fatma , Massa Michele 
Published: September 2024

AbstractCollation of satellite imagery and new fieldwork in Şanlıurfa (south-east Türkiye) has revealed large numbers of stone-walled desert kites, some of which may date to the Pre-Pottery Neolithic (c. 9500–7000 BC). The authors briefly explore the potential role of these structures in the processes of early sedentism and monumentality.
To study efficacy of tacrolimus (0.03%) Eye ointment, cyclosporine (0.1%) eye drops and fluorometholone (0.1%) eye drops in vernal keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Kashyap Rupali , Gupta Tulika , Maurya Rajendra Prakash , Roy Meghna 
Published: September 2024

VKC (Vernal keratoconjunctivitis) is a chronic, bilateral ocular inflammatory disorder that primarily impacts young patients. Management of VKC is challenging due to its complex immunological etiology and chronic inflammatory components. This prospective, single-center, randomized study was executed at the Outpatient Department of Ophthalmology, SGT Medical College, Hospital and Research Institute (FMHS), Budhera, Gurugram, for a duration of 18 months. A total of 102 clinically diagnosed VKC patients, aged above 5 years, have been then randomly divided into 3 groups (34 each). Group A received fluorometholone (0.1%) eye drops, Group B received cyclosporine (0.1%) eye drops, and Group C received tacrolimus (0.03%) eye ointment. Patients were evaluated at days 0, 7, 14, 28, 35, and two weeks post-medication using the Clinical Scoring System by Bleik and Tabbara to assess TSSS (Total Subjective Symptom Score) and TOSS (Total Objective Ocular Sign Score). Most patients were between 6-10 years old, with over 78% being males. Group A showed significant symptom reduction from the first week (mean TSSS reduction from 2.29±0.46 to 0.21±0.41, p&#60;0.0001), while Groups B and C showed significant improvements from the second week (Group B: mean TSSS reduction from 2.5±0.51 to 0.12±0.33, p&#60;0.0001; Group C: mean TSSS reduction from 2.29±0.46 to 1.00±0.00, p&#60;0.0001). Conjunctival hyperemia and tarsal papillae improvements were more pronounced in Group B as compared to Groups A & C. No ocular complications were found, except for dose-dependent irritation in Group C. While fluorometholone (0.1percent) eye drops provided early symptom relief, its effects were not sustained. Cyclosporine (0.1percent) eye drops and tacrolimus (0.03percent) eye ointment showed delayed but sustained efficacy, making them suitable for long-term treatment of moderate to severe VKC. Fluorometholone may be used initially alongside immunomodulators for rapid symptom relief, followed by tapering as immunomodulators take effect.
The Schroth Method for Pediatric Scoliosis
Authors: Baumann Anthony N. , Trager Robert J. , Anaspure Omkar S. , Floccari Lorena , Li Ying , Baldwin Keith D. 
Published: September 2024

Background:
The Schroth method is the most commonly used patient scoliosis-specific exercise paradigm for treating pediatric scoliosis. The aim of this study is to systematically and critically examine the evidence for the Schroth method for pediatric scoliosis.

Methods:
PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched through April 5, 2024, for articles examining the Schroth method for pediatric scoliosis (<18 years old). Thirteen review questions were created spanning the study aim. Each included article was independently assessed for the level of evidence (I-IV). Research questions were given a grade of recommendation (A, B, C, and I [insufficient]).

Results:
A total of 29 articles (41.4% Level I, 31.0% Level II, 13.8% Level II, and 13.8% Level IV) met inclusion criteria out of 845 initially retrieved, describing 1,555 patients with scoliosis aged 4 to 18 years. There was grade A evidence that the Schroth method is most commonly used for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), can improve the angle of trunk rotation, and is safe; grade B evidence for improvement in posture; and grade I evidence for improvement in Cobb angle, cosmetic deformity, quality of life, ideal treatment parameters, economic value, utility in delaying/preventing surgery, effectiveness in relation to patient characteristics (e.g., skeletal maturity or curve size), and comparative effectiveness to other conservative interventions.

Conclusion:
While there is good evidence that the Schroth method is commonly and safely used in AIS and can minimally improve the angle of trunk rotation and fair evidence of improvement in posture, there is insufficient evidence regarding multiple important clinical and economic outcomes, such as comparative effectiveness to other conservative interventions and improvement of Cobb angle. Although clinicians may consider the Schroth method as 1 option of several conservative strategies, clinical benefit may be limited, and further high-quality research is needed to evaluate its performance in areas of insufficient evidence.
“Tecnologias Sociais” and The Northeast Brazilian Semi-Arid: A Study on the Cisterns Program
Authors: Matos Júnior José Ednilson , Luft Maria Conceição Melo Silva , Rocha Ronalty 
Published: September 2024

Purpose: To analyze the role of the Cisterns Program as a generator of “tecnologias sociais” in the Northeast Brazilian Semi-Arid.
Theoretical framework: Characteristics, mechanisms and requirements of “Tecnologia Social”.
Design/methodology/approach: Instrumental single case study in the Cisterns Program, using interviews and document analysis for data collection. Categorical content analysis to evidence analysis.
Findings: The results show that the “tecnologias sociais” designed by the Cisterns Program have positive impacts beyond access to potable water. These include, among others, mitigation of desertification and articulation and mobilization between communities. Such findings corroborate the understanding that the Cisterns Program as a “supplier” of “tecnologias sociais” and its relevance to the advancement of the regions where it operates, mainly in the northeastern Brazilian semi-arid region.
Originality: This study deepens analyzes of the component elements of "tecnologia social", ways of acting by the groups involved and social implications (results), aspects with little discussion in the literature on the subject.
Theoretical and practical contributions: The study summarizes the forms of action, the groups involved, the mechanisms, the bottlenecks in the process, and the impacts related to social technologies in a set of elements that can serve as a guide for the implementation of social technologies in other places. It also identifies mechanisms for creating/strengthening actions and public policy to scale up, disseminate, and optimize these technologies.
Keywords: “Tecnologia Social”. Cisterns Program. Northeast Brazilian semi-arid.
Revealing Catalyst Restructuring and Composition During Nitrate Electroreduction through Correlated Operando Microscopy and Spectroscopy
Authors: Chee See Wee , Yoon Aram , Bai Lichen , Franco Federico , Zhan Chao , Ruescher Martina , Timoshenko Janis , Pratsch Christoph , Werner Stephan , Jeon Hyo Sang , Monteiro Mariana Cecilio de Oliveira , Cuenya Beatriz Roldan , Yang Fengli 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Determining the active phase of an electrocatalyst at work is key to understanding its properties. However, the operating morphology of electrocatalysts is challenging to investigate because they can restructure into different motifs under applied potential due to changes in their oxidation state. These transformations will further alter their catalytic properties. Here, we employ a multi-modal approach centered on electrochemical liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (EC-TEM) to study the evolution of cubic Cu2O pre-catalysts during the electrocatalytic nitrate reduction reaction and unveil how redox kinetics determine the working catalyst morphology. We found drastic differences in catalyst restructuring during operation and a strong dependency of its composition on the applied potential and the chemical environment. Moreover, by matching the timescales of morphological changes observed in EC-TEM with time-resolved chemical state information obtained from operando transmission soft X-ray microscopy, hard X-ray absorption spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy, we reveal that Cu2O can be kinetically stabilized for extended durations under moderately reductive conditions due to the formation of surface hydroxides. Finally, we rationalize how the interaction between the electrolyte and the catalyst influences the ammonia selectivity.
3D Anderson localization of light in disordered systems of dielectric particles
Authors: Grynko Yevgen , Siebert Dustin , Sperling Jan , Förstner Jens 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We present the results of full wave numerical simulations of light transmission by layers of irregular dielectric particles that demonstrate 3D Anderson localization of light in disordered uncorrelated discrete media. Our simulations show that a high degree of disorder in a dense layer prevents transverse spreading of a propagating beam and allows anomalous conservation of its initial polarization state. A transition from the purely diffusive regime to a non-exponential time dependence when approaching the Ioffe-Regel criterion is observed in short pulse transmission measurements. Along with this, the transmission spectrum is consistent with the Thouless criterion. The effect depends on the turbidity of the layer: increasing the volume fraction and the refractive index leads to the enhancement of the non-exponential behavior caused by the disorder in the medium which is a clear signature of Anderson localization.
Scale-up synthesis of bioplastics polyglycolic acid from waste plastic polyethylene terephthalate
Authors: Chen Yong , Wang Yuxiang , Chen Jiu , Tse Edmund , Shi Rui 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The conversion of discarded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into bioplastics polyglycolic acid (PGA) represents a pivotal step in promoting the reuse of PET and bolstering the adoption of PGA. However, this promising pathway is currently hindered by (i) low conversion rate of PET-derived ethylene glycol (EG) into glycolate and (ii) high cost associated with purifying glycolic acid (GA). Herein, we designed a novel Pd-CoCr2O4/NF catalyst for continuous electrosynthesis of glycolate, achieving a 75% conversion rate of EG at a current density of ~280 mA cm–2. Furthermore, we devised a cost-effective purification process that circumvents unnecessary acidification steps. A scale-up experiment involving 20 kg of waste PET was conducted and resulted in an 87% PGA yield. Techno-economic analysis confirmed the cost competitiveness of PGA produced through this environmental-friendly method. This study shows a sustainable route to mitigate the environmental impact of waste plastics and reduce the production costs of bioplastics.
In Vitro Sperm Generation from Immature Mouse Testicular Tissue Using Plasma Rich in Growth Factors
Authors: Moradian Seyyed Amir , Movahedin Mansoureh 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Culture medium enriched with Knockout serum replacement (KSR) can produce in vitro mouse sperm, but it is inefficient, strain-specific and contains bovine products, which limits its use in the human clinic. The study aimed to optimize the culture medium for testicular tissue by using plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) as a serum supplement, addressing the limitations of KSR.
Methods
Immature testicular tissues from NMRI mice were cultured for 14 days to identify the optimal PRGF concentration using histological analysis and tubular integrity scoring. Subsequently, tissues were cultured for 42 days with the optimal PRGF concentration and compared to a control group with 10% KSR, followed by evaluation through histological, tubular integrity, and immunofluorescence assays.
Results
After 14 days, 5% PRGF media significantly preserved tubule integrity better than 10% and 20% PRGF, performing similarly to 10% KSR. However, after 42 days, the integrity scoring revealed significantly a higher percentage of well-preserved tubules in 5% PRGF compared to 10% KSR. Additionally, only PRGF supported spermatogenesis to the production of flagellated sperm. Real-time PCR analysis revealed that transcript levels of Plzf, Tekt1, and Tnp1 were significantly elevated in 5% PRGF compared to 10% KSR. Immunofluorescence and quantitative analysis confirmed enhanced spermatogenesis progression in 5% PRGF media, with significantly increased numbers of PLZF + spermatogonia, SYCP3 + spermatocytes, ACRBP + spermatids, and Ki67 + proliferating cells per tubule compared to 10% KSR. Moreover, 5% PRGF showed a significantly lower mean fluorescence intensity of the pro-apoptotic marker Bax, with no significant difference in the anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-2 compared to KSR.
Conclusions
The findings suggest that 5%PRGF is a viable alternative to KSR in mouse testicular tissue cultures, promoting structural integrity and spermatogenesis up to the production of flagellated sperm. These results pave the way for using autologous PRGF in refined culture media for in vitro sperm production, advancing personalized reproductive medicine.
Determination of Electromagnetic Field Exposure in Arc Welding By Introducing Improved Numerical Anatomic Body Simulation
Authors: EGERLAND Stephan , Schranz Benjamin , Langeder Harald 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Electric and magnetic field (EMF) phenomena arise where applying manual arc welding equipment. Consequently, using such systems may cause adverse effects to welding personnel. Models available quantitatively to assess EMF impacts in welding consistently show underestimation of exposure; mainly due to simplified boundary conditions implemented to facilitate modelling application. For arc welding this paper introduces a novel approach, namely, the implementation of Induction Factors to improve EMF exposure assessment quality. Moreover, it is shown in how far especially advanced MIG / MAG and TIG welding variants for example involving additional hardware that may produce EMF effects, are represented deploying the standards existing. Results are presented and discussed both found in practical process application and numerical simulation. Employing the developed calculation approach is capable of compensating for inaccuracies yet identified with models still recommended by regulatory- or professional bodies. Users are provided with comprehensive information to help practically evaluate EMF exposure.
The effects of calcium and phosphorus levels and phytase inclusion in the diet on the performance, nutrient digestibility, tibia characteristics, and FGF23 and SLC34A2 genes expression in broilers
Authors: Sedghi Mohammad , Sarrami Zahra , Mohammadi Ishmael , Ghasemi Razie , Kimiaeitalab Mohammad Vahid , Abbasi Mojtaba 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the optimal levels of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) in the diet using the Taguchi method and investigate the effect of adding phytase to diets with Ca and P deficiency. A total of 1458 day-old broilers were used in nine treatments. The L9 orthogonal array was chosen to obtain the Ca and non-phytate phosphorus (NPP) requirements, and the level of phytase that include: three levels of Ca (100%, 85% and 70% of recommendation), three levels of NPP (standard, standard-0.1 and standard-0.2), and three levels of phytase (0, 500 and 1000 FTU/kg). Results showed that, Std level of Ca, Std and Std-0.1 level of P, and 500 and 1000 FTU/kg (phytase in diets resulted in the lowest FCR, and the highest daily weight gain and feed digestibility in all rearing periods. Also, Std level for Ca and P, and 1000 (FTU/kg (for phytase were optimal levels for tibia ash and P percentage. In addition, the use of phytase in the 500 and 1000 (FTU/kg (levels with Std of Ca and Std-0.2 NPP, also, 70% Std of Ca and Std-0.1 NPP led to an increase in intestinal phosphorus bioavailability through the overexpression of intestinal FGF23, Klotho and SLC34A2 genes and reduction in the transcription of kidney SLC34A1. In general, this study suggests that to make the diets more economical, in the presence of phytase enzyme (500 or 1000 FTU/kg), Ca can be reduced up to 85% of the requirement, and P at a standard level minus 0.1.