Browse Articles

5.6% lidocaine aerosol anesthesia for supragingival ultrasonic scaling in patients with chronic periodontitis or dental plaque-induced gingivitis

Prevention of unplanned extubation in neonatal patients: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Unplanned extubation (UPE), defined as accidental removal of the endotracheal tube during mechanical ventilation or its replacement due to suspected obstruction or inadequate diameter, is considered the fourth most common adverse event in neonatal intensive care units (NICU). This study aimed to describe a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol that will identify and assess the effect of primary intervention measures designed to prevent UPE in NICU. A search will be carried out in the following databases: PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, SciELO, and LILACS. Reviewers, in pairs and independently, will select the studies, perform data extraction and assess the methodological quality of the included studies using preestablished tools according to the type of study. The systematic review will provide evidence to present the main intervention measures used in the prevention of UPE during the care of critical neonatal patients. The systematic review and meta-analysis resulting from this protocol may provide important information regarding UPE in the neonatal population, which will help with decision-making and the implementation of safer clinical practices that focus on the reduction of adverse events, contributing to the improvement of service management and the safety of neonatal patients.

Lactylation modulation identifies key biomarkers and therapeutic targets in KMT2A-rearranged AML

Preliminary experience and learning curve of endoscopic nipple-areolar-complex sparing total mastectomy: A single-center retrospective study

Background In this study, the preliminary experience of endoscopic nipple-areolar-complex (NAC) sparing total mastectomy were analyzed and reported. Methods The medical records of the patients who underwent Endoscopic NAC sparing total mastectomy from November 2019 to June 2022 in a single institute were collected and analyzed. The medical records of their clinicopathologic characteristics, perioperative parameters, postoperative complications, oncologic results were collected retrospectively. The learning curve was evaluated using univariable and multivariable analyses and analyzed using the CUSUM method. Results A total of 56 surgeries from 53 patients were analyzed. The mean total operation time was 272.50±66.74 minutes while mean oncologic mastectomy was 155.61±43.21 minutes. The mean postoperative hospital days were 9.85±4.70 days. In CUSUM analysis, the cases needed to decrease operation time were 10th. The overall complication rate related to implant was 15.09%. There were one locoregional recurrence patient and one distant metastasis and mortality patient observed during median follow-up of 19.12±12.01 months. Conclusion According to our preliminary study, endoscopic NAC sparing total mastectomy is a safe procedure, and the operation time can be reduced with accumulated surgical experience.

Effects of continuous cropping and application of bio-organic fertilizer on photosynthetic performance, dry matter accumulation and distribution of sugar beet

Azithromycin removal from water via adsorption on drinking water sludge-derived materials: Kinetics and isotherms studies

In this study, we utilized drinking water treatment sludge (WTS) to produce adsorbents through the drying and calcination process. These adsorbents were then evaluated for their ability to remove azithromycin (AZT) from aqueous solutions. The L-500 adsorbent, derived from the calcination (at 500°C) of WTS generated under conditions of low turbidity in the drinking water treatment plant, presented an increase in the specific surface area from 70.745 to 95.471 m2 g-1 and in the total pore volume from 0.154 to 0.211 cm3 g-1, which resulted in a significant AZT removal efficiency of 65% in distilled water after 60 min of treatment. In synthetic wastewater, the rate of AZT removal increased to 80%, in comparison, in a real effluent of a municipal wastewater treatment plant, an AZT removal of 56% was obtained. Kinetic studies revealed that the experimental data followed the pseudo-second-order model (R2: 0.993–0.999, APE: 0.07–1.30%, and Δq: 0.10–2.14%) suggesting that chemisorption is the limiting step in the adsorption using L-500. This finding aligns with FTIR analysis, which indicates that adsorption mechanisms involve π-π stacking, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic interactions. The equilibrium data were analyzed using the nonlinear Langmuir, Freundlich, and Langmuir-Freundlich isotherms. The Langmuir-Freundlich model presented the best fitting (R2: 0.93, APE: 2.22%, and Δq: 0.06%) revealing numerous interactions and adsorption energies between AZT and L-500. This adsorbent showed a reduction of 19% in its AZT removal after four consecutive reuse cycles. In line with the circular economy principles, our study presents an interesting prospect for the reuse and valorization of WTS. This approach not only offers an effective adsorbent for AZT removal from water but also represents a significant step forward in advancing sustainable water treatment solutions within the framework of the circular economy.

Exercise promotes peripheral glycolysis in skeletal muscle through miR-204 induction via the HIF-1α pathway

Design and evaluation of a problem-based learning VR module for apparel fit correction training

The increased adoption of three-dimensional (3D) digital prototyping software programs makes it necessary to train novice designers to use these programs efficiently. However, existing studies spanning from engineering to design education indicate that students feel incompetent in understanding 3D digital prototypes and navigating the software, so there is a need to find effective training methods. In the current study, training modules were developed to teach participants fit correction skills through an iterative problem-based learning (PBL) approach. A review of the literature was performed to develop the fit correction tasks and guide the module development process. Expert feedback was used to fine-tune the tasks and module interface. The current study explored the effects of PBL-based virtual reality (VR) training on learning how to correct two-dimensional (2D) apparel patterns to improve consequent 3D garment fit. Results indicated that the training module significantly improved spatial visualization and fit correction skills. Participants with higher apparel spatial visualization skills saw a higher improvement in fit correction skills because of the training. At lower spatial visualization skill levels, women saw a higher increase in apparel spatial visualization skills after the training than men but the difference between the learning outcomes across genders reduced when participants had higher spatial skills before training. These findings were supported by the results of qualitative data obtained through interviews. The participants found the PBL approach, immediate feedback, and aid in visualization through garment simulations beneficial for understanding the concepts. At the same time, they indicated that the training module could be used as a supplement to the traditional classroom but cannot replace the physical garment fitting practice. The findings of the study verified that PBL using virtual garment simulations can have a positive impact on learning outcomes and help identify the stage of education at which learners can be exposed to PBL.

Oatmeal and wheat flour as the sources of thyroid peroxidase and proinflammatory enzymes modulators in the prevention of thyroid diseases

Modifications to rhesus macaque TCR constant regions improve TCR cell surface expression

T cell immunotherapy success is dependent on effective levels of antigen receptor expressed at the surface of engineered cells. Efforts to optimize surface expression in T cell receptor (TCR)-based therapeutic approaches include optimization of cellular engineering methods and coding sequences, and reducing the likelihood of exogenous TCR α and β chains mispairing with the endogenous TCR chains. Approaches to promote correct human TCR chain pairing include constant region mutations to create an additional disulfide bond between the two chains, full murinization of the constant region of the TCR α and β sequences, and a minimal set of murine mutations to the TCR α and β constant regions. Preclinical animal models are valuable tools to optimize engineering designs and methods, and to evaluate the potential for off-target tissue injury. To further develop rhesus macaque models for TCR based cellular immunotherapy, we tested methods for improving cell surface expression of rhesus macaque TCR in rhesus macaque primary cells by generating five alternative TCRαβ constant region constructs in the context of a SIV Gag-specific TCR: 1. human codon optimized rhesus macaque (RH); 2. RH TCR with an additional disulfide linkage; 3. rhesus macaque constant sequences with minimal murine amino acid substitutions; 4. murinized constant sequences; and 5. murinized constant sequences with a portion of the exposed FG loop in the β constant sequence replaced with rhesus macaque sequence to reduce potential immunogencity. Murinization or mutation of a minimal set of amino acids to the corresponding murine sequence of the constant region resulted in the greatest increase in rhesus macaque TCR surface expression relative to wild type. All novel TCR constructs retained the ability to induce production of cytokines in response to cognate peptide antigen specific stimulation. This work can inform the design of TCRs selected for use in rhesus macaque models of TCR-based cellular immunotherapy.

High sensitivity tapered fiber refractive index biosensor using hollow gold nanoparticles

Genetic variability and population structure analysis of Protostrongylus oryctolagi (Nematoda: Protostrongylidae) in Lepus europaeus from Central and Northern Italy

Nematodes are abundant and ubiquitous animals which are poorly known at intraspecific level. This work represents the first attempt to fill the gap on basic knowledge of genetic variability and differentiation in Protostrongylus oryctolagi, a nematode parasite of lagomorphs. 68 cox1 sequences were obtained from brown hares collected in five locations in Northern and Central Italy, highlighting the presence of a high amount of genetic variation inside this species. The eleven haplotypes identified (Haplotype diversity equal to 0.702) were split into two lineages: lineage A (comprising six different haplotypes, A1-A6) and lineage B (B1-B5). The mean intra-lineage amount of genetic variation was 0.3%, whereas the inter-lineage percentage of variation was ten-fold higher (3%). These two lineages were non-randomly distributed in the investigated areas. Lineage A showed a preference for Central Italy (Tuscany) even if it was sporadically found also in northern territories (Emilia-Romagna), while B-haplotypes were present exclusively in Emilia-Romagna. The analysis of molecular variance identified two main barriers to gene flow: (i) a strong major one which separate samples of Central Italy (PIA and GR7) from the northern ones (RE1, RE3 and MO1; ΦST = 0.750, P = 0.00); (ii) a secondary faint barrier which separates Pianosa island from Grosseto (ΦST = 0.133, P = 0.00). Any difference was found among northern samples (ΦST = 0.009, P = 0.00). The observed data may be explained by several factors ranging from the parasite’s biology (presence of a narrow host spectrum), the final host’s behaviour (small home range), the natural dispersion of the host-parasite dyad occurred in past or the recent passive men-mediated migration. Finally, the presence of unconventional shortened amplicons revealed the presence of NUMTs (nuclear copy of mitochondrial genes) in the P. oryctolagi nuclear genome, suggesting caution when using DNA barcode as unique marker for the identification of species belonging to this genus. “In short, if all the matter in the universe except the nematodes were swept away, our world would still be dimly recognizable”. Nathan Augustus Cobb, from "Nematodes and Their Relationships", 1915

Evaluating Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) infection dynamics in rice for distribution routes and environmental reservoirs by molecular approaches

Enhancing public sector employees ’ professional identity: A study using China’s Labor Force Survey data

Public sector employees, as the crucial link between the party, government, and the general public, represent the frontline in safeguarding the interests of the people and providing services to them. They profoundly influence the implementation and execution of national policy directives. Using data from China’s Labor Force Survey and employing a combination of exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis, this research constructs an evaluation index system for public sector employees’ Professional Identity. By dividing the evaluation index system into secondary indicators, and utilizing a structural equation standardization model, the study accurately determines the extent to which each level of indicators within the evaluation index system influences Professional Identity. This research provides pathway recommendations to enhance the Professional Identity of public sector employees, with the aim of mitigating occupational burnout and improving the quality of public services.

PcNAC25, a NAC transcription factor of Pugionium cornutum(L.) Gaertn conferring enhanced drought and salt stress tolerances in Arabidopsis

Reproducibility and repeatability of 18F-(2S, 4R)-4-fluoroglutamine PET imaging in preclinical oncology models

Introduction Measurement of repeatability and reproducibility (R&R) is necessary to realize the full potential of positron emission tomography (PET). Several studies have evaluated the reproducibility of PET using 18F-FDG, the most common PET tracer used in oncology, but similar studies using other PET tracers are scarce. Even fewer assess agreement and R&R with statistical methods designed explicitly for the task. 18F-(2S, 4R)-4-fluoro-glutamine (18F-Gln) is a PET tracer designed for imaging glutamine uptake and metabolism. This study illustrates high reproducibility and repeatability with 18F-Gln for in vivo research. Methods Twenty mice bearing colorectal cancer cell line xenografts were injected with ~9 MBq of 18F-Gln and imaged in an Inveon microPET. Three individuals analyzed the tumor uptake of 18F-Gln using the same set of images, the same image analysis software, and the same analysis method. Scans were randomly re-ordered for a second repeatability measurement 6 months later. Statistical analyses were performed using the methods of Bland and Altman (B&A), Gauge Reproducibility and Repeatability (Gauge R&R), and Lin’s Concordance Correlation Coefficient. A comprehensive equivalency test, designed to reject a null hypothesis of non-equivalence, was also conducted. Results In a two-way random effects Gauge R&R model, variance among mice and their measurement variance were 0.5717 and 0.024. Reproducibility and repeatability accounted for 31% and 69% of the total measurement error, respectively. B&A repeatability coefficients for analysts 1, 2, and 3 were 0.16, 0.35, and 0.49. One-half B&A agreement limits between analysts 1 and 2, 1 and 3, and 2 and 3 were 0.27, 0.47, and 0.47, respectively. The mean square deviation and total deviation index were lowest for analysts 1 and 2, while coverage probabilities and coefficients of the individual agreement were highest. Finally, the definitive agreement inference hypothesis test for equivalency demonstrated that all three confidence intervals for the average difference of means from repeated measures lie within our a priori limits of equivalence (i.e. ± 0.5%ID/g). Conclusions Our data indicate high individual analyst and laboratory-level reproducibility and repeatability. The assessment of R&R using the appropriate methods is critical and should be adopted by the broader imaging community.

Understanding system interdependencies in sustainable paper production from residue grass biomass: Insights from fuzzy cognitive mapping

Abstract This research investigates the pulp and paper industry's transition to sustainability by valorizing unused roadside and natural grasses for paper production. Large-scale production from residual grass poses multifaceted challenges, requiring collaboration across stakeholders, from biomass collection to manufacturing. To understand key drivers and barriers within this complex system, experts from various fields, including local farmers, researchers, policymakers, and industry executives were interviewed, leading to the development of a Fuzzy Cognitive Map (FCM). The analysis explores various scenarios to assess how socio-economic, technological, and political factors influence the transition to low-carbon practices. These scenarios highlight the effects of varying levels of technology development, economic conditions, and policy support on the transition's progress and outcomes. Results show that the system is highly sensitive to shifts in socio-economic and political conditions. Political interventions play a crucial role, especially during energy crises and increased public demand for sustainable solutions. Grass-based paper production is seen as a viable pathway, but challenges such as the economic feasibility of emerging technologies remain. We recommend targeted policies to improve the economic viability of grass-based products and optimize biomass allocation between energy and bio-based products, ensuring a more balanced and sustainable transition.

Shaping a low-carbon future: Uncovering the spatial-temporal effect of population aging on carbon emissions in China

Background With the accelerated development of the aging trend in Chinese society, the aging problem has become one of the key factors affecting sustainable economic and social development. Given the importance of controlling carbon emissions for achieving global climate goals and China’s economic transformation, studying the spatial and temporal effects of population aging on carbon emissions and their pathways of action is of great significance for formulating low-carbon development strategies adapted to an aging society. Objective This paper aims to explore the spatial-temporal effects of population aging on carbon emissions, identify the key pathways through which aging affects carbon emissions, and further explore the variability of these effects across different regions. The findings will provide theoretical support and empirical evidence for government departments to formulate policies to promote the coordinated development of a low-carbon society and an aging society. Methods Based on the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2004 to 2022, this paper systematically investigates the impact of population aging on carbon emission intensity from both spatial and temporal dimensions by using the spatial Durbin model and the mediating effect model. The direct effect of aging on carbon emission intensity, the spatial spillover effect, and the indirect effect through mediating variables such as residents’ consumption, environmental regulation, and new urbanization are analyzed in depth. Results The study found that population aging in China has significant spatial and temporal effects on carbon emissions. From the spatial dimension, there is a significant spatial spillover effect of the effect of aging on carbon emissions, and aging reduces local carbon emissions but increases carbon emissions in adjacent regions. From the time dimension, the effect of aging on carbon emissions shows a stage characteristic, initially it will reduce carbon emissions, but with the deepening of aging, its effect may tend to weaken. In addition, this study identifies a number of key pathways through which aging affects carbon emissions, including reducing residential consumption, promoting new urbanization, and increasing the intensity of environmental regulations. Finally, this study explores the regional heterogeneity of the impact of aging on carbon emissions and its mechanism of action. Conclusion This study is instructive: first, the complex impact of population aging on carbon emissions should be fully recognized to formulate a comprehensive low-carbon development strategy; second, attention should be paid to the spatial spillover effect of aging on carbon emissions to strengthen inter-regional cooperation and coordination; and lastly, differentiated low-carbon policies should be formulated to address the characteristics of aging in different regions and stages in order to promote the synergistic development of a low-carbon society and an aging society.

Optimization of parallel coiled cavities of different depths in microperforated panel sound absorbers

AbstractThis paper presents a microperforated panel (MPP) sound absorber with parallel coiled-up-cavities of different-depths (PCD) and the corresponding optimization on their cavities. In this study, an analytical model is initially proposed for estimating the cavity depths of the PCD-MPP absorber upon normal incidence absorption coefficient evaluation at given resonance frequencies. Cavity effective depths and normal incidence absorption coefficient are evaluated after coiling up cavities for a compact structure. Numerical simulations with the finite element method and experiments are conducted for validations. Subsequently, a design process is suggested on the basis of the proposed model for sound absorption optimization. Results show that, absorption coefficient from the proposed analytical model agrees well with finite element simulations and experiments. It is also shown that, for the effective depth evaluation of the coiled-up cavities of PCD-MPP absorbers, the diagonal lines of subchannels of coiled-up cavities with a coiled-up angle of 180° can accurately represent the effective depths, while the combination of centerlines of subchannels and quarter arc inside the coiled-up area is more suitable for those with a coiled-up angle of 90°. Optimization investigation shows that, PCD-MPP absorbers can have high absorption performance with the averaged and maximum absorption coefficient of 0.91 and 0.98 within the target bandwidth of 400–1600 Hz, where the absorber thickness can stay below 65 mm. This work can provide valuable guidelines for the design of sound absorbers for broadband absorption.

“If my husband was in the labor ward with me, my baby wouldn’t have died”; experiences on birth companionship from a tertiary health facility, Tanzania

Background Despite existing policies promoting companionship, it remains uncommon in Tanzania. Pregnant women select a trusted individual to accompany them during childbirth, providing emotional, physical, and spiritual support. The World Health Organization recommends birth companionship as integral to intrapartum care for positive maternal and fetal outcomes. Objective This study aimed to explore the experiences of pregnant women and healthcare providers regarding childbirth companionship at a tertiary health facility in Tanzania. Methods Participants were purposefully selected for qualitative exploratory interviews. Focused group discussions were conducted with pregnant women attending antenatal clinics, and in-depth interviews were held with healthcare providers at Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital in Tanzania. Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis approach was used to analyze the data. Results Three major themes emerged: "Bonding and Learning with Spouse/Partner," "Assurance of Maternal Safety," and "Fear of Blame and Breach of Confidentiality." These themes highlight a strong desire among both pregnant women and healthcare providers for companionship during labor, particularly from male partners. Emotional support and safety were cited as key reasons. Fear, however, was identified as a major obstacle, with providers concerned about potential exposure of mistakes and pregnant women fearing a violation of their privacy rights regarding health matters. Conclusion Pregnant women expressed a strong desire for companionship throughout labor. However, companionship faced challenges due to staff shortages and inadequate privacy in labor wards. There is a pressing need to enhance childbirth companionship practices and policies in low-resource settings.