bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The seasonal variation and ecological risk of microplastics in the Lower Ganges River, Bangladesh
Authors: Hassan Md. Anamul , Shetu Mabia Hossain , Miah Osman , Parvin Fahmida , Shammi Mashura , Tareq Shafi M. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractMicroplastic (MP) pollution has gained considerable attention in various ecosystems; however, it has received relatively less attention in freshwater‐riverine environments than in other ecosystems. The Ganges River Delta, one of the world's most densely populated areas, is a potential source of MP pollution in the freshwater ecosystem. MPs were identified throughout the year in the lower Ganges River water. Seasonally, the highest abundance was observed during the monsoon (14.66 ± 2.06 MPs/L), followed by the pre‐monsoon (13.46 ± 1.75 MPs/L) and post‐monsoon (11.50 ± 0.40 MPs/L). Throughout the year, MP discharge was estimated at 4.12 × 1012 to 2.17 × 1013 MPs/year. Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy identified plastic polymers in the water, like ethylene vinyl acetate, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene, and nylon. Moderate contamination by MPs was assessed throughout the year. Significant correlations between MP abundance and both rainfall and discharge were observed. It is essential to implement preventative measures in the Ganges River Basin to mitigate MP pollution before the situation worsens.Practitioner Points
Throughout the year, MP concentration ranged from 10.67 to 20.33 MPs/L
The highest MP occurrence was observed in the monsoon season (14.66 ± 2.06 MPs/L)
The lowest abundance was detected in the post‐monsoon period (11.50 ± 0.40 MPs/L)
There was a moderate level of MP contamination in the lower Ganges River water
It was shown that discharge and rainfall were correlated with MP abundance
New Space Era: Characteristics of the New Space Industry Landscape
Authors: Baber William W. , Ojala Arto 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIn recent decades, the space industry has undergone enormous changes, transitioning from government-led space projects (referred to as “old space”) toward a more entrepreneurial and commercial utilization of space by private firms (termed “new space”). Due to these rapid changes, there is a pressing need for up-to-date insights into the field, encompassing its theories and characteristics, particularly concerning business activities related to space. In this chapter, we present five propositions for further study and more detailed investigation. These propositions are based on current literature and qualitative data gathered from 10 experts working in key roles within the space industry. Finally, the chapter identifies key theoretical elements that help elucidate how the space business is evolving and its likely trajectory in the near future.
The Sociological Shaping of Space Tourism
Authors: Yang Michelle I. C. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractSpace tourism marks a pivotal shift in humanity's endeavors. It goes beyond traditional travel and embodies a complex interplay of social, technological and economic forces. This article comprehensively explores how these forces combine to shape the landscape of space tourism and position it as a reflection of prevailing social constructs. It explores the intricate ways in which regulatory frameworks, cultural narratives, technological breakthroughs, and economic mechanisms interact to define and guide the development of space tourism. Drawing on institutional and performativity theories, the article offers a nuanced sociological analysis of the burgeoning market for space tourism and highlights the importance of these theoretical lenses for understanding the social foundations of this novel industry. The integrative analysis presented in this article recognizes the socioeconomic barriers and cultural paradigms that shape space tourism access and experiences. Through a critical assessment of the regulatory, technological, and economic dimensions of space tourism, the article urges a re-evaluation of the industry’s practices. It argues that a more comprehensive understanding of space tourism, informed by sociological insights, can pave the way for more equitable and sustainable practices that go beyond purely commercial or technological achievements.
Evolving Dynamics of the Spanish Space Sector: Institutional Influence in the Spanish New Space Economy
Authors: Brennan Louis , Utrero-González Natalia 
Published: August 2024

AbstractSpain’s space sector is an example of the increasing relevance of private ventures but also the complementary engagement of the public sector to prepare the Spanish industry for the “New Space” scenario and opportunities. The objective of this chapter is to critically analyse the recent evolution of the Spanish Space sector. To achieve this, we adopt an institutional configuration perspective focusing on formal institutions’ role in shaping sector dynamics. We show that institutional support was crucial for developing traditional space companies. We also highlight that the evolution of new businesses has not only been influenced by the traditional university-industry-government relationships but has also drawn from the experience and expertise developed by established “Old Space” companies. The emergence of bidirectional relationships between old and new market participants is a distinctive feature of the Spanish sector and can help the sector's competitiveness in the “New Space” scenario.
Conformal field theory with composite defect
Authors: Shimamori Soichiro 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
We explore higher-dimensional conformal field theories (CFTs) in the presence of a conformal defect that itself hosts another sub-dimensional defect. We refer to this new kind of conformal defect as the composite defect. We elaborate on the various conformal properties of the composite defect CFTs, including correlation functions, operator expansions, and conformal block expansions. As an example, we present a free O(N) vector model in the presence of a composite defect. Assuming the averaged null energy condition (ANEC) does hold even for the defect systems, we conclude that some boundary conditions can be excluded. Our investigations shed light on the rich phenomenology arising from hierarchical defect structures, paving the way for a deeper understanding of critical phenomena in nature.
Changes in cerebral vascular reactivity following mild repetitive head injury in awake rats: modeling the human experience
Authors: Bens Nicole , Kulkarni Praveen , Ferris Craig F. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe changes in brain function in response to mild head injury are usually subtle and go undetected. Physiological biomarkers would aid in the early diagnosis of mild head injury. In this study we used hypercapnia to follow changes in cerebral vascular reactivity after repetitive mild head injury. We hypothesized head injury would reduce vascular reactivity. Rats were maintained on a reverse light-dark cycle and head impacted daily at 24 h intervals over three days. All head impacts were delivered while rats were fully awake under red light illumination. There was no neuroradiological evidence of brain damage. After the 3rd impact rats were exposed to 5% CO2 and imaged for changes in BOLD signal. All imaging was done while rats were awake without the confound of anesthesia. The data were registered to a 3D MRI rat atlas with 171 segmented brain areas providing site specific information on vascular reactivity. The changes in vascular reactivity were not uniform across the brain. The prefrontal cortex, somatosensory cortex and basal ganglia showed the hypothesized decrease in vascular reactivity while the cerebellum, thalamus, brainstem, and olfactory system showed an increase in BOLD signal to hypercapnia.
Simultaneous liver-kidney transplantation: future perspective
Authors: Prudhomme Thomas , Mesnard Benoit , Branchereau Julien , Roumiguié Mathieu , Maulat Charlotte , Muscari Fabrice , Kamar Nassim , Soulié Michel , Gamé Xavier , Sallusto Federico , Timsit Marc Olivier , Drouin Sarah 
Published: August 2024

Background
The aims of this narrative review were (i) to describe the current indications of SLKT, (ii) to report evolution of SLKT activity, (iii) to report the outcomes of SLKT, (iv) to explain the immune-protective effect of liver transplant on kidney transplant, (v) to explain the interest of delay kidney transplantation, using hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP), (vi) to report kidney after liver transplantation (KALT) indications and (vii) to describe the value of the increase in the use of extended criteria donors (ECD) and particular controlled donation after circulatory death (cDCD) transplant, thanks to the development of new organ preservation strategies.

Method
Electronic databases were screened using the keywords "Simultaneous", "Combined", "kidney transplantation" and "liver transplantation". The methodological and clinical heterogeneity of the included studies meant that meta-analysis was inappropriate.

Results
A total of 1,917 publications were identified in the literature search. Two reviewers screened all study abstracts independently and 1,107 of these were excluded. Thus, a total of 79 full text articles were assessed for eligibility. Of these, 21 were excluded. In total, 58 studies were included in this systematic review.

Conclusions
Simultaneous liver-kidney transplantation has made a significant contribution for patients with dual‐organ disease. The optimization of indication and selection of SLKT patients will reduce futile transplantation. Moreover, increasing the use of transplants from extended criteria donors, in particular cDCD, should be encouraged, thanks to the development of new modalities of organ preservation.
Extended Addition Protocol and Efficient Voting Protocols Using Regular Polygon Cards
Authors: Takahashi Yoshihiro , Shinagawa Kazumasa 
Published: August 2024

AbstractCard-based cryptography is a research field for realizing cryptographic protocols using a deck of physical cards. Shinagawa et al. proposed a regular n-sided polygon card, which can hold a value from 0 to $$n-1$$

n
-
1

, and constructed an addition protocol over $$\mathbb {Z}/n\mathbb {Z}$$

Z
/
n
Z

and a voting protocol with v voters and c candidates when $$v<n$$

v
<
n

. In this paper, we propose an addition protocol over $$\mathbb {Z}/mn\mathbb {Z}$$

Z
/
m
n
Z

using regular n-sided polygon cards. Technically, we introduce a cyclic integer encoding and a rot-and-shift shuffle to extend the modulus from n to mn. In addition, we construct two voting protocols with v voters and c candidates using regular n-sided polygon cards. Our first voting protocol requires $$c(\lceil \frac{v+1}{n} \rceil + v + 1)$$

c
(

⌈

v
+
1

n

⌉

+
v
+
1
)

cards and $$v+1$$

v
+
1

shuffles without restriction. Our second voting protocol reduces the number of cards to $$\lceil \frac{v+1}{n} \rceil n + v + 1$$

⌈

v
+
1

n

⌉
n
+
v
+
1

when $$v < n$$

v
<
n

and $$c\le n$$

c
≤
n

.
The Planar Turán Number of $$\{K_4,C_5\}$$ and $$\{K_4,C_6\}$$
Authors: Győri Ervin , Li Alan , Zhou Runtian 
Published: August 2024

AbstractLet $$\mathcal {H}$$
H
be a set of graphs. The planar Turán number, $$ex_\mathcal {P}(n,\mathcal {H})$$

e

x
P

(
n
,
H
)

, is the maximum number of edges in an n-vertex planar graph which does not contain any member of $$\mathcal {H}$$
H
as a subgraph. When $$\mathcal {H}=\{H\}$$

H
=
{
H
}

has only one element, we usually write $$ex_\mathcal {P}(n,H)$$

e

x
P

(
n
,
H
)

instead. The study of extremal planar graphs was initiated by Dowden (J Graph Theory 83(3):213–230, 2016). He obtained sharp upper bounds for both $$ex_\mathcal {P}(n,C_5)$$

e

x
P

(
n
,

C
5

)

and $$ex_\mathcal {P}(n,K_4)$$

e

x
P

(
n
,

K
4

)

. Later on, sharp upper bounds were proved for $$ex_\mathcal {P}(n,C_6)$$

e

x
P

(
n
,

C
6

)

and $$ex_\mathcal {P}(n,C_7)$$

e

x
P

(
n
,

C
7

)

. In this paper, we show that $$ex_\mathcal {P}(n,\{K_4,C_5\})\le {15\over 7}(n-2)$$

e

x
P

(
n
,

{

K
4

,

C
5

}

)

≤

15
7

(
n
-
2
)

and $$ex_\mathcal {P}(n,\{K_4,C_6\})\le {7\over 3}(n-2)$$

e

x
P

(
n
,

{

K
4

,

C
6

}

)

≤

7
3

(
n
-
2
)

. We also give constructions which show the bounds are sharp for infinitely many n.
Radical resection of locally advanced and recurrent colorectal carcinoma involving major nerve resection: a systematic review of surgical, oncological and functional outcomes
Authors: Hawke Justin A. , Regora Samantha , Rajkomar Amrish , Heriot Alexander , Mohan Helen , Warrier Satish 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
The aim of this study was to explore the surgical, oncological and quality of life outcomes in the setting of radical resection of colorectal carcinoma involving major nerve resection.

Methods
A systematic review of the literature was registered with the International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) and performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to identify papers relating to outcomes in radical resection of colorectal cancer where major nerve resection was undertaken. Papers were identified from OVID Medline, EMBASE Classic and Web of Science encompassing all publications in English from January 2010 to June 2023. A total of 1357 nonduplicate studies were identified and screened for relevance, with six studies included in the final review.

Results
A total of 354 major nerve resections were undertaken across the six included studies. Overall postoperative morbidity was reported at rates of up to 82%. Two studies considered nerve-resection-specific oncological outcomes, with complete pathological resection achieved at rates comparable to the wider pelvic exenteration cohort (65–68%) and without any overall survival disadvantage being conveyed by major nerve resection (p = 0.78). Two studies considered functional outcomes and noted a transient decrease in physical quality of life over the first 6 months postoperatively (p = 0.041) with significant loss to follow-up. One study considered postoperative pain in nerve resection and noted no significant increase in patient-reported pain scores associated with nerve resection (p = 0.184–0.618).

Conclusions
Major nerve resections in locally advanced and recurrent colorectal cancer remain understudied but with encouraging initial oncological and functional outcomes. Multicentre collaborative prospective reviews are needed to better elucidate contributors to postoperative morbidity and functional deficits and further establish interventions to ameliorate them.
Cannabis use in endometriosis: the patients have their say—an online survey for German-speaking countries
Authors: Jasinski Victoria , Voltolini Velho Renata , Sehouli Jalid , Mechsner Sylvia 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can cause various pain symptoms. Current therapy options do not always provide sufficient pain relief and often cause unpleasant side effects. Recent studies have shown that the endocannabinoid system is involved in the endometriosis pathophysiology, and using Cannabinoids may be a potential therapeutic option. We aimed to determine for the first time, the Cannabis use prevalence, self-rated effectiveness, and the possible reduction in medication in German-speaking countries.

Methods
A cross-sectional online survey was distributed through endometriosis support and advocacy groups on social media. German-speaking endometriosis patients aged ≤ 18, residing in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland were eligible to participate.

Results
Out of 912 participants who provided valid answers, 114 reported using cannabis for self-management. Cannabis was rated as the most effective self-management strategy to reduce symptom intensity (self-rated efficacy 7.6 out of 10). Additionally, ~ 90% of the participants were able to decrease their pain medication intake. The greatest improvement was observed in sleep (91%), menstrual pain (90%), and non-cyclic pain (80%). Apart from increased fatigue (17%), side effects were infrequent (≤ 5%).

Conclusion
At the time of the study, Cannabis consumption was still illegal in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, with medical cannabis being rarely prescribed due to complex requirements. Results suggest that Cannabis has become a popular self-management method for treating endometriosis-related symptoms, leading to substantial symptom improvement. Further studies are needed to investigate the best administration methods, dosage, THC/CBD ratio, potential side effects, and long-term effects to provide official recommendations to patients and healthcare providers.
Ruptured AAA: bridging the gap between international guidelines and local clinical realities
Authors: Hassan Summer , Frost Taylor , Bourchier Russell 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Treatment of asymptomatic Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) presents a clinical challenge, requiring a delicate balance between rupture risk, patient comorbidities, and intervention-related complications. International guidelines recommend intervention for specific AAA size thresholds, but these are based on historical trials with limited female representation. We aimed to analyse disease characteristics, AAA size at rupture, and intervention outcomes in patients with ruptured AAA from 2009 to 2023 to investigate the gap between guidelines and local realities.

Methods
This single-centre retrospective cohort study analysed electronic health records of patients treated for a ruptured AAA, excluding those who were managed palliatively. The study assessed patients’ demographics, risk factors, comorbidities, clinical presentation, radiological characteristics, and outcomes.

Results
Of 164 patients (41 females, 123 males, median age 73.5), 93.3% presented with abdominal or back pain. The median AAA size at rupture was 8.0 cm in males and 7.6 cm in females. No significant correlations were found between demographic characteristics, risk factors, AAA size, repair modality, and outcomes. Trends show a decline in AAA prevalence and rupture rates, aligning with global health initiatives. Post-intervention survival rates at 30 days were 70.7% (67.5% in males and 80.0% in females), and at 2 years were 65.85% (61.7% in males and 70.0% in females).

Conclusion
Evolving AAA trends and improved post-intervention survival rates warrant a critical reassessment of existing intervention recommendations. Adjusting intervention thresholds to larger sizes may be justified to optimise the risk-benefit ratio.
Biofeedback and Exercise Load Affect Accuracy of Tongue Strength Exercise Performance
Authors: Kamarunas Erin , Murray Kelsey , Drulia Teresa , Szynkiewicz Sarah , Griffin Lindsay , Mulheren Rachel 
Published: August 2024

AbstractRehabilitative exercises require precise movement coordination and target accuracy for optimal effectiveness. This paper explores the impact of tongue strength exercises (TSE) performance accuracy on exercise outcomes, adherence, and participant confidence and motivation. An 8-week randomized clinical trial included 84 typically aging participants divided into four groups defined by access to biofeedback (present/absent) and TSE intensity dosing (maximal/submaximal) during a home exercise program (HEP). Retention, training, and HEP accuracy were tracked at biweekly visits and during HEP for participants with access to a biofeedback device. Associations with tongue strength outcomes, participant factors, biofeedback, and intensity dosing were analyzed. Exercise accuracy measures did not contribute to tongue strength outcomes at the end of 8 weeks. Increased training accuracy (less practice required to achieve competency) was associated with higher participant confidence and better adherence to the HEP. The presence of biofeedback was associated with reduced adherence but better retention accuracy, while maximal intensity was associated with improvements in all accuracy measures compared to submaximal intensity exercise. These findings in typically aging participants suggest the need for tailored approaches in swallowing-related exercise programs, given the effects of biofeedback and exercise intensity on motor learning and exercise retention. Accuracy performance and its effect on clinical outcomes warrants study in clinical populations with dysphagia and with various rehabilitative approaches.Trial Registration Clincialtrials.gov: NCT04809558
Comparing the hemodynamic effects of ketamine versus fentanyl bolus in patients with septic shock: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mostafa Maha , Hasanin Ahmed , Reda Basant , Elsayad Mohamed , Zayed Marwa , Abdelfatah Mohamed E. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Ketamine and fentanyl are commonly used for sedation and induction of anesthesia in critically ill patients. This study aimed to compare the hemodynamic effects of ketamine versus fentanyl bolus in patients with septic shock.

Methods
This randomized controlled trial included mechanically ventilated adults with septic shock receiving sedation. Patients were randomized to receive either 1 mg/kg ketamine bolus or 1 mcg/kg fentanyl bolus. Cardiac output (CO), stroke volume (SV), heart rate (HR), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were measured at the baseline, 3, 6, 10, and 15 min after the intervention. Delta CO was calculated as the change in CO at each time point in relation to baseline measurement. The primary outcome was delta CO 6 min after administration of the study drug. Other outcomes included CO, SV, HR, and MAP.

Results
Eighty-six patients were analyzed. The median (quartiles) delta CO 6 min after drug injection was 71(37, 116)% in the ketamine group versus − 31(− 43, − 12)% in the fentanyl group, P value < 0.001. The CO, SV, HR, and MAP increased in the ketamine group and decreased in the fentanyl group in relation to the baseline reading; and all were higher in the ketamine group than the fentanyl group.

Conclusion
In patients with septic shock, ketamine bolus was associated with higher CO and SV compared to fentanyl bolus.

Clinical trial registration
Date of registration: 24/07/2023. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05957302. URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05957302.
Clinical and radiological outcome of surgical hallux valgus correction: open versus minimally invasive
Authors: Pappas Andreas , Hönning Alexander , Schmittner Marc D. , Ekkernkamp Axel , Gümbel Denis 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Hallux valgus (HV) is the most common forefoot deformity. Surgical correction of HV aims to reduce pain, preserve joints, and re-establish foot function while restoring the hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA). Many surgical procedures have been proposed, including open and minimally invasive (MI) techniques. This study aimed to compare the midterm outcomes of open vs. MI procedures and their impact on the duration of surgery, hospital stay, HVA, and IMA post-operatively.

Materials and methods
One hundred and twenty HV patients operated by open or MI surgery between October 2019 and October 2022 were included. One hundred three patients met the inclusion criteria and consented to the study. Patients were prospectively surveyed for foot functionality, post-operative pain, and complications using the AOFAS score. Radiographic measurements of HV angles, length of hospital stay, and surgery duration were analysed.

Results
MI surgery patients had significantly better AOFAS scores (p < 0.001) 12 months post-operatively compared to open surgery. Complication rates were lower in the MI group (3.8% vs. 33.3%, p < 0.001). MI surgery patients also had shorter hospital stays (0.9 ± 0.3 days vs. 2.0 ± 0.0 days) and surgery duration (19.7 ± 2.3 min vs. 80.7 ± 6.8 min). MI surgery was more effective in correcting the IMA but equally effective as open surgery for HVA correction.

Conclusion
MI surgery resulted in better patient satisfaction, fewer complications, and more precise correction of IMA values. Moreover, the duration of surgery and hospital stay were significantly lower in patients undergoing MI surgery. Further research is needed to validate these findings in controlled, prospective randomised trials.