bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Narrating/translating online plantation tourism
Authors: Federici Eleonora 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The purpose of the essay is to conduct an analysis of plantation tourism websites in the USA South, measuring the degree to which the history of slavery remains (in)visible or is explained within online promotional texts like websites, and to outline if today the digital space can become a space for inclusivity and equality. The essay will be divided in two parts: the analysis of a corpus of 10 major Historical Plantations websites in order to outline the principal verbal and visual strategies used to portray the history of slavery in the American South, and a comparison of 3 websites which offer translations in Italian and/or French in order to outline differences, adaptations, omissions, changes in the target texts. The methodology used will refer to CDA, Social Semiotics and Tourism Translation with the primary aim of outlining all the aspects of a website as a multimodal text. The essay will offer the results of both a quantitative and qualitative analysis trying to show how plantations as tourist attractions are represented through linguistic, cultural, and visual choices that represent the tourist experience in a highly codified way, and to demonstrate how this representation is adapted into different languages/cultural contexts, often reducing information and useful data to attract international tourists, and simplifying the message.
Blind watermarking algorithm with 2D-SCCM chaotic system encryption based on SURF and RHFMs
Authors: Lu Chen-Chen , Feng Xiu-fang , Teng Lin , Wang Chun-peng , Zhang Hao 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In this paper, a digital watermarking algorithm was proposed based on local feature regions and radial harmonic Fourier moments. It used a quantized modulation algorithm to embed the watermark information into the frequency domain information of the image. Compared with traditional watermarks directly embedded into the pixel values, the algorithm enhanced the invisibility of the watermark. Many existing digital watermarking algorithms neglected the security of the embedding process, because of more attention on the effect of post-embedding and extraction. To overcome this problem, we proposed a two-dimensional hyperchaotic system named 2D-SCCM chaotic system, which used classical sine mapping and cubic mapping for coupling. Before embedding, the correlation among the pixels of the watermarked image was disrupted, resulting in a full process security enhancement. Combining the clustering algorithm with feature point extraction, the obtained local feature region was more stable and suitable for watermark embedding. Results showed that the improved watermark embedding algorithm was more effective for resisting geometric attacks such as cropping attacks. Moreover, the PSNR values of the final watermark-embedded images were all greater than 50 dB, indicating a good balance between imperceptibility and robustness.
Syncope in older adults: challenges, approach and treatment
Authors: Jansen Sofie , van der Velde Nathalie 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Syncope can have devastating consequences, resulting in injuries, accidents or even death. In our ageing society, the subsequent healthcare usage, such as emergency room presentations, surgeries and hospital admissions, forms a significant and growing socioeconomic burden. Causes of syncope in the older adult include orthostatic hypotension, carotid sinus syndrome, vasovagal syncope, structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiac arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities. As stated in the recently published World Falls Guidelines, syncope in older adults often presents as falls, which is either due to amnesia for loss of consciousness, or pre-syncope leading to a fall, especially in those prone to falls with several other risk-factors for falls present. This difference in presentation can hinder the recognition of syncope. In patients with unexplained falls, or in whom the history comprises red flags for potential syncope, special attention to (pre)syncope is therefore warranted. When syncope is mistaken for other causes of a transient loss of consciousness, such as epileptic seizures, or when syncope presents as falls, patients are often referred to multiple specialists, which may in turn lead to excessive and unnecessary diagnostic testing and costs. Specialist services that are able to provide a comprehensive assessment can improve diagnostic yield and minimise diagnostic testing, thus improving patient satisfaction. Comprehensive assessment also leads to reduced length of hospital stay. Increasingly, geriatricians are involved in the assessment of syncope in the older patient, especially given the overlap with falls. Therefore, awareness of causes of syncope, as well as state-of-the-art assessment and treatment, is of great importance.
Expression and characterization of α-1,3-glucanase from Paenibacillus alginolyticus NBRC15375, which is classified into subgroup 2 (minor group) of GH family 87
Authors: Konishi Yasuhito , Sato Kaito , Nabetani Kai , Shirasaka Norifumi , Fukuta Yasuhisa 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT
Bacterial α-1,3-glucanase, classified as glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 87, has been divided into 3 subgroups based on differences in gene sequences in the catalytic domain. The enzymatic properties of subgroups 1 and 3 of several bacteria have been previously investigated and reported; however, the chemical characterization of subgroup 2 enzymes has not been previously conducted. The α-1,3-glucanase gene from Paenibacillus alginolyticus NBRC15375 (PaAgl) belonging to subgroup 2 of GH family 87 was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. PgAgl-N1 (subgroup 3) and PgAgl-N2 (subgroup 1) from P. glycanilyticus NBRC16188 were expressed in E. coli, and their enzymatic characteristics were compared. The amino acid sequence of PaAgl demonstrated that the homology was significantly lower in other subgroups when only the catalytic domain was compared. The oligosaccharide products of the mutan-degrading reaction seemed to have different characteristics among subgroups 1, 2, and 3 in GH family 87.
Cardiac MRI in diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in children: current perspectives
Authors: Spaapen Tessa O M , Bohte Anneloes E , Slieker Martijn G , Grotenhuis Heynric B 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited myocardial disease characterised by left ventricular hypertrophy, which carries an increased risk of life-threatening arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. The age of presentation and the underlying aetiology have a significant impact on the prognosis and quality of life of children with HCM, as childhood-onset HCM is associated with high mortality risk and poor long-term outcomes. Accurate cardiac assessment and identification of the HCM phenotype are therefore crucial to determine the diagnosis, prognostic stratification, and follow-up. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is a comprehensive evaluation tool capable of providing information on cardiac morphology and function, flow, perfusion, and tissue characterisation. CMR allows to detect subtle abnormalities in the myocardial composition and characterise the heterogeneous phenotypic expression of HCM. In particular, the detection of the degree and extent of myocardial fibrosis, using late-gadolinium enhanced sequences or parametric mapping, is unique for CMR and is of additional value in the clinical assessment and prognostic stratification of paediatric HCM patients. Additionally, childhood HCM can be progressive over time. The rate, timing, and degree of disease progression vary from one patient to the other, so close cardiac monitoring and serial follow-up throughout the life of the diagnosed patients is of paramount importance. In this review, an update of the use of CMR in childhood HCM is provided, focussing on its clinical role in diagnosis, prognosis, and serial follow-up.
7. ANALYSIS OF THE RESULTS OF LAPAROSCOPIC TUNNELLED PERITONEAL DIALYSIS CATHETER PLACEMENT
Authors: Martínez Izquierdo G , Ramos Montes C , Sanz Navarro S , Rodríguez Uría R , Amoza Pais S , Moreno Gijón M , Rodicio Miravalles J L , Sanz Álvarez L 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Peritoneal dialysis is a type of renal replacement therapy that improves quality of life and empowers patients with advanced chronic kidney disease. The best method of peritoneal dialysis catheter (PDC) placement remains to be defined.

Methods
Retrospective observational study from October 2019 to March 2023, aiming to analyse the results of this new technique for PDC placement in our centre.

Results
The study consisted of 45 patients, 66.7% of whom were men. The study comprised 45 patients, with 66.7% being men. The mean age was 57 years, and the mean BMI was 27.9 kg/m2, with 82.8% of the patients classified as ASA III. In 66.7% of cases, it was the first catheter to be placed. Of the surgeries conducted, 41 involved initial placements, and 4 involved laparoscopic repositioning, the latter following a previously unsuccessful Alpha manoeuvre. In 6 cases, an associated surgery was performed. The mean duration of surgery was 34 minutes, with a median length of stay of 24 hours.
In 3 patients, catheter malfunction occurred, with 2 requiring laparoscopic repositioning and the remaining one laparoscopic replacement. Additionally, 3 other patients experienced infectious complications, which were treated conservatively. No major complications or laparoscopy conversions were noted. The mean follow-up from surgery was 15.4 months, with 42.2% of PDCs being removed after a mean of 11.5 months, and renal transplantation being the most common reason for removal (79%).

Conclusion
In our centre, tunnelled PDC placement has proven to be safe and effective, with a low percentage of infections, relocations or replacements, and it is considered the technique of choice for patients capable of undergoing surgery under general anaesthesia.
11. UPDATED VALIDATION OF 3D PRINTING-BASED TRAINING TOOLS FOR TRANSANAL SURGERY
Authors: Pedregosa Sandoval È , Sánchez Margallo J A , Lobato Gómez C , Sánchez Varo I , Durán Meléndez B , Sánchez Margallo F M 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Due to the complexity of colorectal surgery, the development of specialised training tools is necessary to improve the technical skills of surgeons in a controlled environment. In the framework of the MIREIA Project, this study proposes an updated design of a toolkit to provide a safe and effective environment for colorectal surgery training.

Methods
Work was carried out on the design of a silicone colon model using injection moulds, consisting of two components (the colon model and its wrap), using the fused deposition 3D printing technique. Two layers of silicone were added to simulate the mucosal and muscular layers. A group of surgeons evaluated the formative utility of the model in transanal surgery, performing resection and suturing of polyps inside the model.

Results
According to the results of the validation study, the silicone colon model showed adequate behaviour during insufflation and a positive haptic response to contact with laparoscopic forceps. This model accurately reproduces the layers of the colon and allows customisation for each patient. In addition, polyp removal is realistic and the elastic layers support stitches, providing greater realism during surgery.

Conclusion
A realistic simulator has been developed for training in transanal laparoscopic surgery, but improvements in the final design are needed for widespread implementation. The application of an aqueous gel on the mucosal layer is proposed to improve the realism of the training.
24. CRITICAL IMPORTANCE OF NOZZLE TEMPERATURE TO BIOPRINT VASCULAR GRAFTS WITH SHEAR-THINNING HYDROGEL
Authors: Barbosa F R , Patrocinio Caballero D , Pereira Miguel S A , Countinho P I , Cardoso Castro T M , Gómez Blanco J C , Sánchez Margallo F M , Pagador Carrasco J B 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The development of vascular grafts adapted to the nature of the patient and their treatment is constantly evolving. Fine control of the bioprinting manufacturing process is a key issue to obtain proper personalized vascular grafts. The aim is to check the influence of the nozzle temperature during bioprinting a Gelatin/Gellan Gum/Alginate hydrogel vascular grafts.

Methods
Vascular grafts were printed using a Gelatin/Gellan Gum/Alginate (8:3:0.5 %w/v) hydrogel in an BioX bioprinter with the printhead and bed set up to 65 °C. Two configurations were set: 1) a standard conical tip (nozzle) and 2) the same nozzle thermally insulated with aluminum foil to uniformly distribute the temperature. A temperature control using a 100 kΩ thermistor was performed in four points: chamber, nozzle, printhead, and bed. Four heating/cooling cycles were performed in each control point.

Results
The grafts printed with the standard nozzle exhibited irregular wall thickness and an uneven surface, attributed to lower temperatures in the conical tip. In contrast, results from the aluminum-covered nozzle indicated temperature distributions of 33.13±0.87, 49.03±3.92, 52.38±3.53, and 64.98±0.10 °C for chamber, nozzle, printhead, and bed, respectively. This improved temperature distribution enhanced the printability of Gelatin/Gellan Gum/Alginate vascular grafts, resulting in a more regular wall thickness and surface profile.

Conclusion
The optimization of temperature in the nozzle during the printing process is a critical parameter for bioprinting vascular grafts using this shear-thinning Gelatin/Gellan Gum/Alginate hydrogel.
25. VALIDATION OF ELECTRICAL MODEL OF THE CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM WITH PRECLINICAL AND CLINICAL DATA
Authors: Nuevo-Gallardo C , Traver J E , Mancha-Sánchez E , Ortega-Morán J F , Pagador J B , Fernández-Portales J , Tejado I , Vinagre B M 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. Since the cardiovascular system (CVS) is complex, the use of computational models to diagnose and/or predict its behavior is a common practice, being of great interest in the case of certain pathologies. This work presents a novel electrical model of the CVS that extends the classical Windkessel models to the left common carotid artery for prototype validation or simulator generation.

Methods
The model has been validated by comparing the simulated hemodynamic parameters (pressure and flow) with the healthy state (nominal condition) that can be found in the literature and with preclinical and clinical experimental data obtained from catheterization trials in porcine (due to its similarities with human anatomy and hemodynamics) and human models, respectively.

Results
Model indices and experiments are consistent with each other and within the ranges suggested in the literature: heart rate (bpm) = 68 (model), 57-70 (experiments), 50-90 (literature); mean arterial pressure (mmHg) = 92 (model), 68-102 (experiments), 70-105 (literature). Also, the cardiovascular waveforms of the model confirm correct hemodynamics, being similar to those extracted from the experiments.

Conclusion
The similarity between the hemodynamic parameters of the model, the experiments and the literature confirm the validity of the proposed model, providing comparable results with the available preclinical and clinical data. This model will simplify and reduce costs associated with in vivo or in vitro cardiac experiments, as well as describe and simulate singular pathologies, such as aortic stenosis.
28. IS THE SWAB USEFUL AS AN ALTERNATIVE METHOD OF COLLECTING MICROBIOTA SAMPLES IN PATIENTS WITH COLON CANCER?
Authors: García Galocha J L , Domínguez Serrano M I , De la Serna Esteban S C , Dziakova J , Sánchez González S , Martín Garre D , Iniesta M P , Torres García A J 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
This study aims to investigate the intestinal microbiota in rectal samples obtained by swab, comparing them with stool samples, tumor, and non-tumor tissue in patients who underwent colorectal cancer surgery at our hospital.

Methods
Eight patients (3 women and 5 men) who underwent surgery at our center between 2021 and 2022 were included in the study.
The anatomopathological stage was evenly distributed, with 50% in stage II and 50% in stage III. Tumor location was also varied, with 37.5% of patients having neoplasms in the left side colon and 62.5% in the right side.
During the preoperative period, stool samples were collected from the patients. Additionally, a rectal exudate was obtained with a swab, and samples of tumor and non-tumor tissue were collected during the procedure. The composition of the intestinal microbiota in all samples was analyzed using rRNA sequencing.

Results
The analysis of all samples identified the phyla Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, Actinobacteriota, Fusobacteriota, and Proteobacteria. No significant differences were observed in terms of alpha and beta diversity when analyzing the different types of samples (feces, exudate, tumor, and non-tumor tissue).
Stage II patients showed a greater abundance of Pasteurellacea, Magasphera, Citrobaceter, and Clostridium in the exudate, while Velillonella and Blautia were more prominent in feces. All the genera were different from those of stage III. The composition did not vary depending on the location of the tumor.

Conclusion
Swabs are a reliable alternative to stool collection for obtaining microbiota samples in patients with colon cancer.
29. SOFT ROBOTICS APPLIED TO MEDICINE: STEERABLE TIP CATHETER GUIDED BY COMPUTER VISION
Authors: Serrano-Baltontín A J , Mancha-Sánchez E , Tejado I , Vinagre B M 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
A soft, biocompatible, and deformation-controlled robotic catheter, guided by computer vision and propelled by the pressurized injection of a saline solution, has been developed. The catheter incorporates a camera at its end to navigate through the human circulatory system to the point where the problem is located and it can release the appropriate surgical instruments for the situation, for example, microscalpel, laser or even a microrobot. This work contributes to the reduction of the risks associated with conventional catheterization, such as unwanted punctures, and eliminates the need to use radiation on the patient for guidance.

Methods
Finite element simulation models are created in COMSOL to evaluate the performance of hydraulically actuated deformable catheter designs. The catheter is manufactured using flexible materials through additive manufacturing and curing of a biocompatible silicone, PDMS, on molds. Experimental measurements include the pressure reached by the saline solution, the curvature achieved by the catheter, the distance traveled within the conduit system, and the acquisition and processing of images of the traversed conduits.

Results
Simulation results identify the optimal design among the considered alternatives. A prototype of the catheter is fabricated, and its movement is precisely controlled to navigate safely within a conduit.

Conclusion
The feasibility of a soft and autonomous catheter with the desired characteristics and behavior to contribute to the reduction of risks associated with catheterization practices is demonstrated.
30. NEW VASCULAR IMPLANT VALIDATION: PRECLINICAL STUDY
Authors: Durán Rey D , Sánchez Rumbo C , Crisóstomo V , Brito Pereira R , Lanceros Méndez S , Sánchez Margallo F M 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The main cause of death in the world are pathologies associated with the cardiovascular system. Tissue engineering is a promising technology as a clinical treatment, since it enables the design of vascular grafts capable of replacing or repairing the biological functions of blood vessels. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is a synthetic material that shows strong potential in the field of tissue engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs). The thermoplastic polymer has piezoelectric properties, exhibits excellent physicochemical and biological performance, mechanical properties, high levels of cell viability and biocompatibility, which promotes endothelial cell proliferation, a key factor in maintaining vascular permeability.

Methods
Tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) were fabricated using the electrospinning technique. Twelve female Merino sheep were utilized in this experimental model, with a division into two groups: a PVDF test group and an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) control group.

Results
PVDF grafts showed better outcomes than commercial grafts in terms of patency and endothelialization.

Conclusion
These results suggest that PVDF test grafts may present better efficacy compared to commercial ePTFE grafts in most of the established parameters, while commercial grafts appear to present better safety than PVDF test grafts.
Further statistical studies are needed to determine if the observed differences are statistically significant.
32. IMPACT OF SURGERY ON BODY COMPOSITION IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING COLECTOMY FOR COLON CANCER IN AN ERAS PROGRAM
Authors: Nieto Martos M R , Juez Saez L D , Fernández Cebrián J M , Blázquez Sánchez J , Ruiz Torres I , García Pérez J C 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The prevalence of sarcopenia in CC patients undergoing colon cancer surgery is high and is associated with increased morbi-mortality. However, there are few studies assessing the impact of surgery on body composition. The main objective of this study was to analyze changes in body composition after colectomy for CC.

Methods
Observational, retrospective study in which patients operated on for CC by RICA route between December 2019 and June 2022 were collected. Pre- and post-surgical measurement of skeletal muscle index (SMI), Psoas iliacus index (PI), visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of each patient was performed by computed tomography (CT). In addition, the influence of previous nutritional assessment and postoperative supplementation on body composition variation was analyzed.

Results
After surgery, SMI, PI, VAT, and SAT significantly decreased in patients. Moreover, the number of patients with sarcopenia increased significantly. Although no statistically significant differences were identified, patients who did not receive preoperative nutritional supplementation exhibited a greater decrease in muscle mass and fat tissue, along with a higher tendency for postoperative complications.

Conclusion
Surgical intervention presents a negative impact on body composition in patients with CC with a significant decrease in muscle mass and visceral and subcutaneous fat. Preoperative nutritional optimization could buffer this loss with a consequent decrease in associated complications.