Liquid Biopsy-Based Volatile Organic Compounds from Blood and Urine and Their Combined Data Sets for Highly Accurate Detection of Cancer

Liquid biopsy is seen as a prospective tool for cancer screening and tracking. However, the difficulty lies in effectively sieving, isolating, and overseeing cancer biomarkers from the backdrop of multiple disrupting cells and substances. The current study reports on the ability to perform liquid biopsy without the need to physically filter and/or isolate the cancer cells per se. This has been achieved through the detection and classification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from the cancer cells found in the headspace of blood or urine samples or a combined data set of both. Spectrometric analysis shows that blood and urine contain complementary or overlapping VOC information on kidney cancer, gastric cancer, lung cancer, and fibrogastroscopy subjects. Based on this information, a nanomaterial-based chemical sensor array in conjugation with machine learning as well as data fusion of the signals achieved was carried out on various body fluids to assess the VOC profiles of cancer. The detection of VOC patterns by either Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis or our sensor array achieved >90% accuracy, >80% sensitivity, and >80% specificity in different binary classification tasks. The hybrid approach, namely, analyzing the VOC datasets of blood and urine together, contributes an additional discrimination ability to the improvement (>3%) of the model's accuracy. The contribution of the hybrid approach for an additional discrimination ability to the improvement of the model's accuracy is examined and reported.

Defect-Density-Controlled Phase-Change Phenomena

Juxtaposing hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity on the same surface, known as hybrid surface engineering, can enhance phase-change heat transfer. However, controlling hydrophilicity on hybrid surfaces in a scalable fashion is a challenge, limiting their application. Here, using widely available metal meshes with variable dimensions and by controlling the patterning pressure, we scalably fabricate hybrid surfaces having spot and gridlike patterns using stamping. Using fog harvesting in a controlled chamber, we show that optimized hybrid surfaces have a ∼37% higher fog harvesting rate when compared to homogeneous superhydrophobic surfaces. Furthermore, condensation frosting experiments reveal that, on grid-patterned hybrid surfaces, frost propagates at ∼160% higher velocity and provides ∼20% less frost coverage when compared to homogeneous superhydrophobic surfaces. During defrost, our hybrid surfaces retain more water when compared to superhydrophobic surfaces due to the presence of hydrophilic patterns and melt water pinning. We adapt our fabrication technique to roll-to-roll patterning, demonstrating wettability contrast on round metallic geometries via atmospheric water vapor condensation. This work provides guidelines for the rapid, substrate-independent, and scalable fabrication of hybrid wettability surfaces for a wide variety of applications.

A deep learning model for prognosis prediction after intracranial hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is a common life-threatening condition that must be rapidly diagnosed and treated. However, there is still a lack of consensus regarding treatment, driven to some extent by prognostic uncertainty. While several prediction models for ICH detection have already been published, here we present a deep learning predictive model for ICH prognosis.

METHODS

We included patients with ICH (n = 262), and we trained a custom model for the classification of patients into poor prognosis and good prognosis, using a hybrid input consisting of brain CT images and other clinical variables. We compared it with two other models, one trained with images only (I-model) and the other with tabular data only (D-model).

RESULTS

Our hybrid model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of .924 (95% confidence interval [CI]: .831-.986), and an accuracy of .861 (95% CI: .760-.960). The I- and D-models achieved an AUC of .763 (95% CI: .622-.902) and .746 (95% CI: .598-.876), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed hybrid model was able to accurately classify patients into good and poor prognosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first ICH prognosis prediction deep learning model. We concluded that deep learning can be applied for prognosis prediction in ICH that could have a great impact on clinical decision-making. Further, hybrid inputs could be a promising technique for deep learning in medical imaging.

The New Normal - Virtual and Hybrid Presentations: Developing Content, Designing Slides, and Delivery Guidelines

OBJECTIVE

To outline best practices for virtual and hybrid presentation effectiveness.

METHODS

Retrospective review of recommendations from world experts in how to develop a solid story, design slides that visually communicate, and improve delivery skills that connect with the audience. Virtual and hybrid presenting is not as strongly dependent on all the new technical and software means as supposed. Presentation basics remain critical.

RESULT

Best practice in presentation effectiveness will statistically decrease the incidence of and risk factors for Nodding-off Episodes per Lecture (NOELs).

CONCLUSION

The future of presenting is here, and it is mostly online. Mastering the presentation basics and understanding the limitations and opportunities for this new virtual/hybrid presentation space will allow presenters the reach and influence their message deserves.

Intraoperative Sapien S3 Valve Placement in 2 Patients With Multi-Valvar Disease Operation: A Unique Hybrid Procedure

There has been a paradigm shift in the management of patients with congenital heart disease with a move away from conventional surgical treatment in favor of a percutaneous catheter-based approach across the spectrum of valvular heart diseases. The Sapien S3 valve implantation in the pulmonary position has been previously reported using a conventional transcatheter approach in patients with pulmonary insufficiency due to an enlarged right ventricular outflow tract. In this report, we present 2 unique cases of intraoperative hybrid implantation of Sapien S3 valves in patients with complex pulmonic and tricuspid valvular disease.

Review on Hybrid Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites with Nanocellulose, Nanomaterials, and Other Fibers

The use of composite materials has seen many new innovations for a large variety of applications. The area of reinforcement in composites is also rapidly evolving with many new discoveries, including the use of hybrid fibers, sustainable materials, and nanocellulose. In this review, studies on hybrid fiber reinforcement, the use of nanocellulose, the use of nanocellulose in hybrid forms, the use of nanocellulose with other nanomaterials, the applications of these materials, and finally, the challenges and opportunities (including safety issues) of their use are thoroughly discussed. This review will point out new prospects for the composite materials world, enabling the use of nano- and micron-sized materials together and creating value-added products at the industrial scale. Furthermore, the use of hybrid structures consisting of two different nano-materials creates many novel solutions for applications in electronics and sensors.

Differential Repeat Accumulation in the Bimodal Karyotype of Agave L

The genus Agave presents a bimodal karyotype with x = 30 (5L, large, +25S, small chromosomes). Bimodality within this genus is generally attributed to allopolyploidy in the ancestral form of Agavoideae. However, alternative mechanisms, such as the preferential accumulation of repetitive elements at the macrochromosomes, could also be important. Aiming to understand the role of repetitive DNA within the bimodal karyotype of Agave, genomic DNA from the commercial hybrid 11648 (2n = 2x = 60, 6.31 Gbp) was sequenced at low coverage, and the repetitive fraction was characterized. In silico analysis showed that ~67.6% of the genome is mainly composed of different LTR retrotransposon lineages and one satellite DNA family (AgSAT171). The satellite DNA localized at the centromeric regions of all chromosomes; however, stronger signals were observed for 20 of the macro- and microchromosomes. All transposable elements showed a dispersed distribution, but not uniform across the length of the chromosomes. Different distribution patterns were observed for different TE lineages, with larger accumulation at the macrochromosomes. The data indicate the differential accumulation of LTR retrotransposon lineages at the macrochromosomes, probably contributing to the bimodality. Nevertheless, the differential accumulation of the satDNA in one group of macro- and microchromosomes possibly reflects the hybrid origin of this Agave accession.

Application of Genetic Resources in the Development of New Lithuanian Vegetable Cultivars

The investigations of genetic resources in Lithuania started in 1924. Collections including more than 110 samples of different vegetable species have been accumulated and continue to expand. The breeding program is focused on productivity, quality traits and biochemical composition, and tolerance of unfavorable environmental factors in changing climates. Currently, over 95 cultivars and hybrids of vegetables have been released, about 40 of which are included in the EU Common catalogue of varieties of vegetable species. From 2012 to 2021, twelve cultivars were developed at the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, seven of which are fruit vegetables, four are root crops, and two are in the onion group. The breeding direction was to increase the sustainable production of vegetables and improve the quality of the products by using national and adapted genetic resources as valuable parental forms. For 10 years, vegetable plant hybrids and cultivars were developed to meet commercial cultivars' market requirements. The tomato cultivars 'Ainiai' H, 'Adas' H, 'Auksiai' H, 'Alvita' and cucumber cultivar 'Roliai' are distinguished by a good biochemical composition and taste, while the sweet pepper cultivar 'Gabija' has high productivity and fruit quality. The carrot hybrids 'Ieva', 'Rokita', 'Jola', garlic cultivar 'Dangiai', and onion cultivar 'Joriai' are distinguished by their productivity and good storage ability. The Jerusalem artichoke cultivar 'Sauliai' has tubers with white skin and the colour of the flowers is yellow.

Novel Erlotinib-Chalcone Hybrids Diminish Resistance in Head and Neck Cancer by Inducing Multiple Cell Death Mechanisms

In a search for novel therapeutic options for head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) generally treated with limited therapeutic success, we synthesized a series of novel erlotinib-chalcone molecular hybrids with 1,2,3-triazole and alkyne linkers and evaluated them for their anticancer activity on Fadu, Detroit 562 and SCC-25 HNSCC cell lines. Time- and dose-dependent cell viability measurements disclosed a significantly increased efficiency of the hybrids compared to the 1:1 combination of erlotinib and a reference chalcone. The clonogenic assay demonstrated that hybrids eradicate HNSCC cells in low micromolar concentrations. Experiments focusing on potential molecular targets indicate that the hybrids trigger the anticancer effect by a complementary mechanism of action that is independent of the canonical targets of their molecular fragments. Confocal microscopic imaging and real-time apoptosis/necrosis detection assay pointed to slightly different cell death mechanisms induced by the most prominent triazole- and alkyne-tethered hybrids (6a and 13, respectively). While 6a featured the lowest IC₅₀ values on each of the three HNSCC cell lines, in Detroit 562 cells, this hybrid induced necrosis more markedly compared to 13. The therapeutic potential indicated by the observed anticancer efficacy of our selected hybrid molecules validates the concept of development and justifies further investigation to reveal the underlying mechanism of action.

A hybrid procedure of living donor liver transplantation for a pediatric patient with citrin deficiency

BACKGROUND

The application of laparoscopic procedures in the liver surgery has been growing. We herein present the first case of a pediatric patient who underwent living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) using a hybrid procedure with hand-assisted laparoscopic mobilization of the liver, subsequent explantation of the diseased liver, and implantation of the graft under direct vision.

METHODS

A 12-year-old girl with citrin deficiency was scheduled for LDLT with a left lobe graft. After making an 8-cm upper midline incision, a 5-mm trocar was placed at the umbilicus and the right upper abdomen. Mobilization of the right liver lobe was performed using a hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS) procedure. After the extension of the midline incision, short hepatic vein dissection, encircling the right hepatic vein and hepatic hilum dissection was performed. Explantation of the liver and subsequent implantation of the liver graft were conducted under direct vision.

RESULTS

Since the operation, her normal activities of daily life have been maintained with a normal liver function. Subsequently, her secondary sexual characteristics have recovered without any wound-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

A hybrid LDLT procedure was feasible for a pediatric patient. This procedure's benefits are considered meaningful for pediatric patients as it does not disrupt the rectus muscles or nerves and achieves cosmesis.

coli isolates causing community-acquired urinary tract infection

Introduction. The main aetiological agent of urinary tract infection (UTI) is Escherichia coli, categorized as uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC). The genome of UPEC shows a high degree of plasticity, which leads to the emergence of 'intermediary strains' with different traits from the parental pathotypes.Gap Statement/Aim. We aimed to assess the frequency and types of the hybrid UPEC among isolates causing UTI and characterize virulence properties of these hybrid isolates molecularly and phenotypically.Methodology. After detection of intestinal pathogenic E. coli (IPEC) virulence markers among 200 UPEC isolates, they were assessed for the presence of 40 virulence genes (VGs) of extraintestinal, uropathogenic and diarrhoeagenic E. coli, phylogenetic group typing, phenotypic traits including biofilm formation, adherence and invasion to HeLa cells, haemolysis activity and antimicrobial resistance.Results. The analysis showed 21 (10.5 %) UPEC isolates carried enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) and enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) virulence markers. Twenty isolates carried the aggR (EAEC) and one the eae and escV genes (EPEC), which were classified as hybrid strains. The most commonly identified genes were fimH (71.5 %), fyuA (66.7 %), iutA (62 %), chuA (57.1) and traT (47.6 %). Biofilm production, adhesion and invasion were found among 17 (81), 18 (85.7) and 11 (52.4 %) hybrids, respectively. Investigation of the genetic characteristics, phylogenetic group and virulence profile of the detected hybrids revealed that they have genetic diversity and do not belong to a particular clonal lineage.Conclusion. The present study reveals that some UPEC may carry virulence markers of IPEC pathotypes. EAEC and EPEC seem to have a greater tendency to form hybrids and cause UTI. Further studies are needed to elucidate what factors contributed to survival in the urinary tract system and facilitate infection and whether these combinations lead to an increase in pathogenicity or not.

Concept analysis of adoption: A hybrid model

BACKGROUND

Adoption is a multidimensional concept affected by cultural and social factors. On the other hand, the number of adoptees has recently increased indicating the need to pay more attention to this issue. However, no clear definition of this concept has been provided so far.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to analyze the concept of adoption.

METHODS

The present study was an analysis using a hybrid model in three phases. During the theoretical phase, using the keyword "adoption," pertinent articles published between 2010 and 2022 were searched. In the field work phase, eight adoptive parents as the participants were interviewed and the data were analyzed using conventional content analysis method. In the final analysis phase, a general analysis of the two previous phases was performed and a final definition was presented.

RESULTS

Adoption is one of the ways of having children that helps infertile couples to experience parental pleasure. If adoption is done wisely based on the abilities of parents, it can provide the best care setting for the child's growth leading to the consolidation of the family and a purposeful life. In adoption, all of the rights and responsibilities of the child are transferred from the biological parents to the adoptive parents, which is affected by religious and cultural beliefs.

CONCLUSION

The analysis of the concept of adoption provided a good basis for identifying the various dimensions of adoption and its challenges. The parents need to pay attention to all dimensions of adoption before selecting this path. It also provided a good platform for future research in the field of adoption.

Inbreeding and Genetic Erosion from a Finite Model of a Synthetic Formed with Single Crosses

When a seed produced by a single-cross (SC) maize hybrid is sown, the resulting grain yield is usually lower than that of the hybrid due to the inbreeding generated. However, if a seed from a mixture of s hybrids were sown instead, the synthetic variety thus formed (Syn_SC) would have a lower inbreeding coefficient (FSyn_SC) and a higher grain yield. The grain yield s, the finite number of representatives of each parent SC (m) and the inbreeding coefficient of the parent lines of the SCs (F) are related to the FSyn_SC. In addition, randomness and the finite size of m can cause the loss of genes and genotypes and increase the FSyn_SC. The objectives of this study were to derive formulas for (1) expressing FSyn_SC in terms of m, F, and s, and (2) calculating the probability of the occurrence of gene and genotype loss. It was found that for the probability of no genotype being missing from the progeny representing a parent to be at least 0.95, it is necessary that m ≥ 15. It was also found that a sample size of 7 is sufficient for FSyn_SC to stabilize, more visibly as F is larger, and for the probability of the occurrence of erosion to be practically zero.

Simultaneous hybrid repair of symptomatic femoral, iliac, and abdominal aortic aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Focal peripheral arterial aneurysms, though rare, have a relatively high association with coexisting synchronous or metachronous aneurysms. While most are asymptomatic at presentation, there is concern for aneurysm thrombosis, embolization, or rupture, which can lead to acute limb ischemia or even limb loss. These complications require early intervention with either open or endovascular surgery, oftentimes staged due to complexity.

METHOD

We describe a case of a 65-year-old male presenting with a symptomatic common femoral artery aneurysm with a simultaneous infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm, requiring a hybrid endovascular and open approach for operative repair due to the size and characteristics of his aneurysms.

DISCUSSION

As the consensus for the management of synchronous/metachronous aneurysms is to stage the procedures, it is important to report scenarios where a single hybrid operation was technically feasible and resulted in good patient outcomes.

CONCLUSION

This report supports the role of utilizing multiple hybrid operative techniques to best repair the respective aneurysm in a single operation, with favorable patient outcomes.

and Kit) Using Biochemical Patterns of the Plant Blossoms

The Rosa genus is characterized by great variability and, consequently, they easily hybridize. The petals of R. pendulina, R. spinosissima and their hybrid Rosa pendulina × spinosissima, collected in western Slovenia, were included in the research. We performed morphometric analysis using keys to determine roses and genetic analysis to determine the genome size. The phenolic compound content in petals of all rose flowers was measured by liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Using flow cytometry, we could confirm the native hybridization process due to the amount of 2C DNA. The value of R. pendulina was 1.71 pg, of R. spinosissima 1.60 pg and of the hybrid 1.62 pg. The value for the hybrid was close to values measured for parent plants and, at the same time, those values of parent plants significantly differed from each other. Our results showed that the content of phenolic compounds in petals decreased after crossing. We found that the highest total phenolic content (178.9 g/kg FW) was measured in R. spinossisima, the lowest content was analyzed for the hybrid (84.36 g/kg FW) and the content for R. pendulina was between these two values (110.58 g/kg FW). The content of flavanols and flavonols was lowest in the hybrid petals, whereas the content of anthocyanins was highest in the hybrid petals.

Recent advances in functionalized quinoline scaffolds and hybrids-Exceptional pharmacophore in therapeutic medicine

Quinoline is one of the most common nitrogen-containing heterocycles owing to its fascinating pharmacological properties and synthetic value in organic and pharmaceutical chemistry. Functionalization of this moiety at different positions has allowed for varying pharmacological activities of its derivative. Several publications over the last few decades have specified various methods of synthesis. This includes classical methods of synthesizing the primary quinoline derivatives and efficient methods that reduce reaction time with increased yield employing procedures that fulfill one of the twelve green chemistry principles, "safer solvent". The metal nanoparticle-catalyzed reaction also serves as a potent and effective technique for the synthesis of quinoline with excellent atom efficiency. The primary focus of this review is to highlight the routes to synthesizing functionalized quinoline derivatives, including hybrids that have moieties with predetermined activities bound to the quinoline moiety which are of interest in synthesizing drug candidates with dual modes of action, overcoming toxicity, and resistance amongst others. This was achieved using updated literature, stating the biological activities and mechanisms through which these compounds administer relief. The ADMET studies and Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) of novel derivatives were also highlighted to explore the drug-likeness of the quinoline-hybrids and the influence of substituent characteristics and position on the biological activity of the compounds.

coli Common pili promote the fitness and virulence of a hybrid aEPEC/ExPEC strain within diverse host environments

Pathogenic subsets of Escherichia coli include diarrheagenic (DEC) strains that cause disease within the gut and extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) strains that are linked with urinary tract infections, bacteremia, and other infections outside of intestinal tract. Among DEC strains is an emergent pathotype known as atypical enteropathogenic E. coli (aEPEC), which can cause severe diarrhea. Recent sequencing efforts revealed that some E. coli strains possess genetic features that are characteristic of both DEC and ExPEC isolates. BA1250 is a newly reclassified hybrid strain with characteristics of aEPEC and ExPEC. This strain was isolated from a child with diarrhea, but its genetic features indicate that it might have the capacity to cause disease at extraintestinal sites. The spectrum of adhesins encoded by hybrid strains like BA1250 are expected to be especially important in facilitating colonization of diverse niches. E. coli common pilus (ECP) is an adhesin expressed by many E. coli pathogens, but how it impacts hybrid strains has not been ascertained. Here, using zebrafish larvae as surrogate hosts to model both gut colonization and extraintestinal infections, we found that ECP can act as a multi-niche colonization and virulence factor for BA1250. Furthermore, our results indicate that ECP-related changes in activation of envelope stress response pathways may alter the fitness of BA1250. Using an in silico approach, we also delineated the broader repertoire of adhesins that are encoded by BA1250, and provide evidence that the expression of at least a few of these varies in the absence of functional ECP.

Report on the Peter Mills Honorary Symposium, Future of E-Learning in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Presented Online in January 2023 by the European Cardiology Section Foundation (ECSF®)

In a tribute to eminent British cardiologist Dr Peter Mills, and one of its long-serving Board members, the European Cardiology Section Foundation (ECSF) presented this symposium in a virtual format,moderated by independent CME/CPD professional Fabiola de Andrade and Reinhard Griebenow, Chairman of the Board of ECSF. The symposium was designed to consider the ongoing ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic and its lsting influence on the way that CME/CPD activities are now being delivered. Presenters from Germany and the United States discussed recent developments in the working environment of healthcare professionals, various aspects of the regulatory and legal issues associated with rapidly changing educational formats such as e-learning, and the enforced move towards more self-directed learning. Key design principles of effective e-learning were also prsented, and examples ofsuccessful micro-e-learning with measured outcomes were provided. In a final discussion period,participants highlighted several concerns such as the integration of this emerging format into different accreditation systems. The main area of concern in this case was thatsuch systems may not yet be fully harmonised. The symposium provided a useful framework for further discussion of how educational activities in CME/CPD could and possibly should, be designed and implemented in the "new normal" of hybrid and e-learning modalities.

Development of new Alzheimer's disease drug candidates using donepezil as a key model

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent geriatric diseases and a significant cause of high mortality. This crippling disorder is becoming more prevalent at an unprecedented rate, which has led to an increase in the financial cost of caring. It is a pathologically complicated, multifactorial disease characterized by β-amyloid precipitation, β-amyloid oligomer production, decrease in cholinergic function, and dysregulation of other neurotransmitter systems. Due to the pathogenic complexity of AD, multitarget drugs that can simultaneously alternate multiple biological targets may enhance the therapeutic efficacy. Donepezil (DNP) is the most potent approved drug for the treatment of AD. It has a remarkable effect on a number of AD-related processes, including cholinesterase activity, anti-Aβ aggregation, oxidative stress, and more. DNP resembles an excellent scaffold to be hybridized with other pharmacophoric moieties having biological activity against AD pathological factors. There have been significant attempts made to modify the structure of DNP to create new bioactive chemical entities with novel structural patterns. In this review, we highlight recent advances in the development of multiple-target DNP-hybridized models for the treatment of AD that can be used in the future in the rational design of new potential AD therapeutics. The design and development of new drug candidates for the treatment of AD using DNP as a molecular scaffold have also been reviewed and summarized.

Immunological Studies to Understand Hybrid/Recombinant Variants of SARS-CoV-2

The zoonotic SARS-CoV-2 virus was present before the onset of the pandemic. It undergoes evolution, adaptation, and selection to develop variants that gain high transmission rates and virulence, resulting in the pandemic. Structurally, the spike protein of the virus is required for binding to ACE2 receptors of the host cells. The gene coding for the spike is known to have a high propensity of mutations, as a result generating numerous variants. The variants can be generated by random point mutations or recombination during replication. However, SARS-CoV-2 can also produce hybrid variants on co-infection of the host by two distinct lineages of the virus. The genomic sequences of the two variants undergo recombination to produce the hybrid variants. Additionally, these sub-variants also contain numerous mutations from both the parent variants, as well as some novel mutations unique to the hybrids. The hybrid variants (XD, XE, and XF) can be identified through numerous techniques, such as peak PCR, NAAT, and hybrid capture SARS-CoV-2 NGS (next generation sequencing) assay, etc., but the most accurate approach is genome sequencing. There are numerous immunological diagnostic assays, such as ELISA, chemiluminescence immunoassay, flow-cytometry-based approaches, electrochemiluminescence immunoassays, neutralization assays, etc., that are also designed and developed to provide an understanding of the hybrid variants, their pathogenesis, and other reactions. The objective of our study is to comprehensively analyze the variants of SARS-CoV-2, especially the hybrid variants. We have also discussed the techniques available for the identification of hybrids, as well as the immunological assays and studies for analyzing the hybrid variants.

Long-Term Antifogging Coating Based on Black Phosphorus Hybrid Super-Hydrophilic Polymer Hetero-Network

The antifogging coating based on super-hydrophilic polymer is regarded as the most promising strategy to avoid fogging but suffers from short-term effectiveness due to antifogging failure induced by water invasion. In this study, a black phosphorus nanosheets (BPs) hybrid polymer hetero-network coating (PUA/PAHS/BPs HN) was prepared by UV curing for the first time to achieve long-term antifogging performance. The polymer hetero-network (HN) structure was composed of two novel cross-linked acrylic resin and polyurethane acrylate. Different from physical blending, a covalent P-C bond between BPs and polymer is generated by UV initiated free radical reaction, resulting in BPs firmly embedded in the polymer HN structure. The BPs enriched on the coating surface by UV regulating migration prevent permeation of water towards the inside of the coating through its own good water-based lubricity and water absorption capacity. Compared with the nonhybrid polymer HN, PUA/PAHS/BPs HN not only has higher hardness and better friction resistance properties, but also exhibits superior water resistance and longer antifogging duration. Since water invasion was greatly reduced by BPs, the PUA/PAHS/BPs HN coating maintained antifogging duration for 60 min under a 60 °C water vapor test and still maintained long-term antifogging performance after being immersed in water for 5 days.

An Experimental Investigation into Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Hybrid Woven Rattan/Glass-Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites

The investigation of hybrid, woven, natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites as a substitute reinforcement for fiber polymer composites has recently caught the interest of academics, industry, and researchers. Woven, natural fiber composites have been implemented in many different applications, including parts for automobiles, household items, flooring, aerospace, and ballistic materials. Therefore, this research seeks to establish the thermal and mechanical characteristics of composites made from rattan strips (RS) and glass fiber (GF)-reinforced epoxy resin (ER). Other than that, the impact of layering configurations with respect to the thermal and mechanical characteristics of the RS and GF will be determined. Hand lay-up and a hydraulic press machine produce hybrid, woven RS and GF laminates. The hybrid composite's mechanical properties will be investigated using impact, tensile, and flexural tests. The hybrid woven of the GF/RS/RS/RS/GF composite sequence demonstrated the highest mechanical properties in comparison to other sequences. The increase from one to three layers of RS in the core layer of GF hybrid composites enhanced the flexural, impact, and tensile properties. In addition, the hybridization of rattan and GF is more thermally stable, as recorded by the high decomposition temperature. As a finding of the research, the woven RS and GF hybrid is a potential material for automotive applications such as car bumpers, for example.

Design Parameters of a Direct Contact Membrane Distillation and a Case Study of Its Applicability to Low-Grade Waste Energy

In the design of membrane distillation systems, the effect of different heat transfer coefficient models on the transmembrane flux seems to have been overlooked thus far. Interestingly, the range of discrepancy in the results of the transmembrane flux is wide, especially in the laminar flow region, where MD is often operated. This can be inferred by studying the design and parameters of the direct contact membrane distillation system. In this study, the physical and physiochemical properties that affect the design of MD are comprehensively reviewed, and based on the reviewed parameters, an MD design algorithm is developed. In addition, a cost analysis of the designed MD process for low-grade-energy fluids is conducted. As a result, a total unit product cost of USD 1.59/m³, 2.69/m³, and 15.36/m³ are obtained for the feed velocities of 0.25, 1 and 2.5 m/s, respectively. Among the design parameters, the membrane thickness and velocity are found to be the most influential.

Estimating genetic gains for tolerance to stress combinations in tropical maize hybrids

Maize is a strategic food crop in sub-Saharan Africa. However, most maize growing tropical savannas particularly in West and Central African experience the occurrence of frequent droughts and Striga infestation, resulting in 30-100% yield losses. This production zones need maize cultivars that combine tolerance to the two stresses. IITA in collaboration with national partners has thus employed a sequential selection scheme to incorporate both drought tolerance and Striga resistance in topical maize hybrids using reliable screening protocols. The main objective of the present study was therefore to use grain yield and other agronomic traits recorded in regional collaborative hybrid trials conducted for 8 years under manged stressful and non-stressful conditions and across rainfed field environments to estimate genetic gains in grain yields using mixed model analyses. The results showed significant (p < 0.05) annual yield gains of 11.89 kg ha^-1 under manged drought stress (MDS) and 86.60 kg ha^-1 under Striga infestation (STRIN) with concomitant yield increases of 62.65 kg ha^-1 under full irrigation (WW), 102.44 kg ha^-1 under Striga non-infested (STRNO) conditions and 53.11 kg ha^-1 across rainfed field environments. Grain yield displayed significant but not strong genetic correlation of 0.41 ± 0.07 between MDS and STRIN, indicating that gene expression was not consistent across the two stress conditions. Furthermore, grain yield recorded in MET had significant moderate genetic correlations of 0.58 ± 0.06 and 0.44 ± 0.07It with MDS and STRIN, respectively. These results emphasize the need to screen inbred linens under both stress conditions to further enhance the rate of genetic gain in grain yield in hybrids for areas where the two stresses co-occur. Nonetheless, this study demonstrated that the sequential selection scheme has been successful in generating hybrids with dependable yields that can reduce chronic food deficits in rural communities experiencing simultaneous presence of drought and S. hermonthica infestation in their production fields.

Experimental Outcrossing in Agaricus bisporus Revealed a Major and Unexpected Involvement of Airborne Mycelium Fragments

Agaricus bisporus var. bisporus, the button mushroom, has a predominantly pseudohomothallic life cycle. Most of its spores are heterokaryotic and give rise to fertile heterokaryons. However, previous studies have suggested that outcrossing should not be rare in wild populations. In order to discover how outcrossing occurs, we experimentally favored it between aerial propagules of a fruiting donor mycelium and a delayed receiver mycelium that only invaded culture trays. Two donor/receiver pairs were studied, and potentially hybrid basidiomata collected on the receiver trays were analyzed with a mitochondrial marker, two unlinked nuclear CAPS markers, then haplotype markers based on DNA sequences obtained after PCR cloning of the rDNA ITS region and the fruk gene. For one of the two pairs, most basidiomata were hybrids between the donor and the receiver. Genotyping of the hybrids revealed only two genotypes consistent with outcrossing involving airborne mycelium fragments rather than basidiospores. The resident receiver heterokaryon that provided its mitochondria to the hybrid basidiomata is suspected to have had a trophic contribution to their growth and successful fruiting. The high level of heterozygosity and the cultivar introgression previously revealed in wild populations of this pseudohomothallic species may result from outcrossing involving airborne pieces of mycelium.

GMLM-CNN: A Hybrid Solution to SWIR-VIS Face Verification with Limited Imagery

Cross-spectral face verification between short-wave infrared (SWIR) and visible light (VIS) face images poses a challenge, which is motivated by various real-world applications such as surveillance at night time or in harsh environments. This paper proposes a hybrid solution that takes advantage of both traditional feature engineering and modern deep learning techniques to overcome the issue of limited imagery as encountered in the SWIR band. Firstly, the paper revisits the theory of measurement levels. Then, two new operators are introduced which act at the nominal and interval levels of measurement and are named the Nominal Measurement Descriptor (NMD) and the Interval Measurement Descriptor (IMD), respectively. A composite operator Gabor Multiple-Level Measurement (GMLM) is further proposed which fuses multiple levels of measurement. Finally, the fused features of GMLM are passed through a succinct and efficient neural network based on PCA. The network selects informative features and also performs the recognition task. The overall framework is named GMLM-CNN. It is compared to both traditional hand-crafted operators as well as recent deep learning-based models that are state-of-the-art, in terms of cross-spectral verification performance. Experiments are conducted on a dataset which comprises frontal VIS and SWIR faces acquired at varying standoffs. Experimental results demonstrate that, in the presence of limited data, the proposed hybrid method GMLM-CNN outperforms all the other methods.

The Use of Zidovudine Pharmacophore in Multi-Target-Directed Ligands for AIDS Therapy

The concept of polypharmacology embraces multiple drugs combined in a therapeutic regimen (drug combination or cocktail), fixed dose combinations (FDCs), and a single drug that binds to different targets (multi-target drug). A polypharmacology approach is widely applied in the treatment of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), providing life-saving therapies for millions of people living with HIV. Despite the success in viral load suppression and patient survival of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART), the development of new drugs has become imperative, owing to the emergence of resistant strains and poor adherence to cART. 3'-azido-2',3'-dideoxythymidine, also known as azidothymidine or zidovudine (AZT), is a widely applied starting scaffold in the search for new compounds, due to its good antiretroviral activity. Through the medicinal chemistry tool of molecular hybridization, AZT has been included in the structure of several compounds allowing for the development of multi-target-directed ligands (MTDLs) as antiretrovirals. This review aims to systematically explore and critically discuss AZT-based compounds as potential MTDLs for the treatment of AIDS. The review findings allowed us to conclude that: (i) AZT hybrids are still worth exploring, as they may provide highly active compounds targeting different steps of the HIV-1 replication cycle; (ii) AZT is a good starting point for the preparation of co-drugs with enhanced cell permeability.

Gene Expression Programming Model for Tribological Behavior of Novel SiC-ZrO2-Al Hybrid Composites

In order to improve product format quality and material flexibility, variety of application, and cost-effectiveness, SiC, ZrO₂, and Al hybrid composites were manufactured in the research utilizing the powder metallurgy (PM) technique. A model was created to predict the tribological behavior of SiC-ZrO₂-Al hybrid composites using statistical data analysis and gene expression programming (GEP) based on artificial intelligence. For the purpose of examining the impact of zirconia concentration, sliding distance, and applied stress on the wear behavior of hybrid composites, a comprehensive factor design of experiments was used. The developed GEP model was sufficiently robust to achieve extremely high accuracy in the prediction of the determine coefficient (R²), the root mean square error (RMSE), and the root relative square error (RRSE). The maximum state of the RMSE was 0.4357 for the GEP-1 (w1) model and the lowest state was 0.7591 for the GEP-4 (w1) model, while the maximum state of the RRSE was 0.4357 for the GEP-1 (w1) model and the minimum state was 0.3115 for the GEP-3 model (w1).

Comparative Analysis of Robotics-Assisted and Manual Insertions of Cochlear Implant Electrode Arrays

HYPOTHESIS

Robotics-assisted cochlear implant (CI) insertions will result in reduced intracochlear trauma when compared with manual, across multiple users.

BACKGROUND

Whether intracochlear trauma and translocations are two factors that may contribute to significant variability in CI outcomes remains to be seen. To address this issue, we have developed a robotics-assisted insertion system designed to aid the surgeon in inserting electrode arrays with consistent speeds and reduced variability. This study evaluated the effect of robotics-assisted insertions on the intracochlear trauma as compared with manual insertions in cadaveric cochleae in a simulated operative environment.

METHODS

Twelve neurotologists performed bilateral electrode insertions into cochleae of full cadaveric heads using both the robotics-assisted system and manual hand insertion. Lateral wall electrodes from three different manufacturers (n = 24) were used and randomized between surgeons. Insertion angle of the electrode and trauma scoring were evaluated using high-resolution three-dimensional x-ray microscopy and compared between robotics-assisted and manual insertions.

RESULTS

Three-dimensional x-ray microscopy provided excellent resolution to characterize the in situ trauma and insertion angle. Robotics-assisted insertions significantly decreased insertional intracochlear trauma as measured by reduced trauma scores compared with manual insertions (average: 1.3 versus 2.2, device versus manual, respectively; p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between insertion angles observed for manual and robotics-assisted techniques (311 ± 131° versus 307 ± 96°, device versus manual, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Robotics-assisted insertion systems enable standardized electrode insertions across individual surgeons and experience levels. Clinical trials are necessary to investigate whether insertion techniques that reduce insertional variability and the likelihood of intracochlear trauma also improve CI auditory outcomes.

Carbon isotope discrimination as a key physiological trait to phenotype drought/heat resistance of future climate-resilient German winter wheat compared with relative leaf water content and canopy temperature

Climate change is expected to influence crop growth through frequent drought and heat extremes, and thus, drought and heat tolerance are of increasing importance as major breeding goals for cereal crops in Central Europe. Plant physiological water status traits are suitable for phenotyping plant drought/heat tolerance. The objective of this study was to determine whether relative leaf water content (RLWC), plant canopy temperature (CT), and carbon isotope discrimination (CID) are suitable for phenotyping the drought/heat resistance of German winter wheat for future climate resilience. Therefore, a comprehensive field evaluation was conducted under drier and warmer conditions in Moldova using a space-for-time approach for twenty winter wheat varieties from Germany and compared to twenty regionally adapted varieties from Eastern Europe. Among the physiological traits RLWC, CT, and CID, the heritability of RLWC showed the lowest values regardless of year or variety origin, and there was no significant correlation between RLWC and grain yield regardless of the year, suggesting that RLWC did not seem to be a useful trait for distinguishing origins or varieties under continental field conditions. Although the heritability of CT demonstrated high values, the results showed surprisingly low and nonsignificant correlations between CT and grain yield; this may have been due to a confounding effect of increased soil temperature in the investigated dark Chernozem soil. In contrast, the heritability of CID in leaves and grain was high, and there were significant correlations between grain yield and CID, suggesting that CID is a reliable indirect physiological trait for phenotyping drought/heat resistance for future climate resilience in German wheat.

laetus (Belyanina and Filinkova, 1996) and Their Hybrid from the Yamal Peninsula, Arctic Zone of Russia

The study of the biological diversity of the Arctic zone yields intriguing results. Initial research on the lakes of the Yamal Peninsula resulted in the identification of Chironomus laetus and the hybrid Ch. laetus × Ch. sp. Le1. To avoid misidentification, we used morphological, cytogenetic, and molecular genetic approaches. By cytogenetics, in Ch. sp. Le1, seven banding sequences were found: Le1A1, Le1B1, Le1C1, Le1D1, Le1E1, Le1F1, and Le1G1. The karyotype of Ch. laetus was mapped for the first time; it is the first species with the arm combinations AE BC DF G. We propose the name of a new cytocomplex-"laetus". DNA-barcoding of the COI gene was carried out for Ch. laetus and Ch. laetus × Ch. sp. Le1 for the first time. The estimated genetic distance between the sequences of Ch. laetus and Ch. riihimakiensis is 2.3-2.5%. The high similarity in morphology, banding sequences, and the possibility of hybridization indicate a close relationship between Ch. laetus and Ch. sp. Le1, which is assumed to be the northern variant of Ch. riihimakiensis. Molecular genetic data suggests the presence of a subgroup with Ch. laetus.

In-Person, Remote, or Hybrid Instruction? A Quality Improvement Assessment of a Six Week Interprofessional Education Pathway Program for Undergraduate Pre-Health Students

There is an emphasis on increasing the diversity of healthcare providers with the goal of reducing health disparities among racial/ethnic minorities. To support this initiative, pathway programs were designed to provide educational and career support to students belonging to racial/ethnic minorities or those who have challenges applying to or entering health professions. As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, pathway programs have assumed various instructional delivery formats (e.g., face to face, virtual, hybrid) with little knowledge on the satisfaction of such methods. The current preliminary study examines whether in person, virtual, or hybrid learning is most effective for underrepresented pre-health undergraduate students who are engaged in a six-week interprofessional health pathway program. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected at one time point towards the end of the program when it was offered in person, virtually, and in hybrid format. Results revealed that the pre-health pathway program received highest satisfaction when presented in a hybrid format and least satisfaction when presented in virtual instruction. Qualitative data suggests that virtual instruction increases feelings of isolation and complicates educational information due to the limitations of virtual streaming. Implications for pathway design are discussed.

Clampless In-Situ Immobilized Branching (CLIMB) to Reconstruct the Internal Iliac Artery

BACKGROUND

Surgical reconstruction of the internal iliac artery (IIA) or its branches is sometimes demanding because of difficulty in distal clamping and suturing in the narrow pelvic space. Here we present a hybrid technique of ClampLess In-situ imMobilized Branching (CLIMB) to reconstruct IIA.

METHODS

in the CLIMB technique, an 8 mm artificial graft is sutured onto the surface of the common iliac artery (CIA) without clamping. Following puncture of the CIA wall, stent grafts are bridged from IIA to the graft. Finally, the graft is sutured to the ipsilateral external iliac artery (EIA). Concomitant endovascular aneurysm repair or IIA branch embolization can also be performed. We applied this technique to the patients unsuited for other IIA reconstruction.

RESULTS

eleven patients underwent the current technique. All but one patient underwent contralateral IIA interruption. Seven patients had a history of aorto-iliac repair before the index surgery. Iliac extender, internal iliac component, Viabahn VBX or Fluency covered stent were used for bridging the graft. Simultaneous IIA branch embolization was performed in 2 patients. Distal landing zones were IIA in 7 grafts, superior gluteal artery in 4 grafts and inferior gluteal artery (IGA) in 1 graft. Technical success was achieved in all cases. No patient complained of buttock claudication or other ischemic symptoms on the treatment side. During a mean follow-up period of 38 months, 11 out of 12 grafts were patent without any related endoleak. One IGA graft occluded at 56 months after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

the CLIMB technique is a viable alternative to preserve IIA with an acceptable mid-term durability.

Grafting of Anionic Decahydro-Closo-Decaborate Clusters on Keggin and Dawson-Type Polyoxometalates: Syntheses, Studies in Solution, DFT Calculations and Electrochemical Properties

Herein we report the synthesis of a new class of compounds associating Keggin and Dawson-type Polyoxometalates (POMs) with a derivative of the anionic decahydro-closo-decaborate cluster [B₁₀H₁₀]^2- through aminopropylsilyl ligand (APTES) acting as both a linker and a spacer between the two negatively charged species. Three new adducts were isolated and fully characterized by various NMR techniques and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, notably revealing the isolation of an unprecedented monofunctionalized SiW₁₀ derivative stabilized through intramolecular H-H dihydrogen contacts. DFT as well as electrochemical studies allowed studying the electronic effect of grafting the decaborate cluster on the POM moiety and its consequences on the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) properties.

Preparation and Characterization of a Polyetherketoneketone/Hydroxyapatite Hybrid for Dental Applications

Here, we developed a new synthetic method for the production of a new class of polymeric inorganic hybrid biomaterial that has potential for dental implant applications and, in general, other orthopedic applications owing to its excellent mechanical properties and biomechanical compatibility. The new hybrid biomaterial is a composite consisting of polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) and hydroxyapatite (HA). This hybrid material boasts several unique features, including its high HA loading (up to 50 wt%), which is close to that of natural human bone; the homogeneous HA distribution in the PEKK matrix without phase separation; and the fact that the addition of HA has no effect on the molecular weight of PEKK. Nanoindentation analysis was used to investigate the mechanical properties of the composite, and its nano/microstructure variations were investigated through a structural model developed here. Through nanoindentation technology, the newly developed PEKK/HA hybrid biomaterial has an indentation modulus of 12.1 ± 2.5 GPa and a hardness of 0.42 ± 0.09 GPa, which are comparable with those of human bone. Overall, the new PEKK/HA biomaterial exhibits excellent biomechanical compatibility and shows great promise for application to dental and orthopedic devices.

Analysis of a Hybrid Spine Fixation Approach for the Treatment of Unstable Thoracolumbar Fractures

Introduction The treatment of unstable thoracolumbar burst fractures and fracture dislocations of the thoracolumbar spine remains ever evolving. Anterior or posterior approaches both have equal efficacy, but the posterior approach has been preferred in our study due to its ease of application, less extensile nature, and reduced intra-operative bleeding. Posterior approaches can employ short-segment fixation or long-segment fixation techniques. Long segment fixation may need implant removal later to increase mobility in nonfusion surgeries. The thoracolumbar segment is a transition zone where the thoracic spine is a less flexible zone, and the lumbar spine is a more flexible zone. Lumbar motion is important to preserve. Hence, we proposed to study spinal fixation two levels above and one level below the fracture for stabilization. This may provide increased stability along with preservation of the motion segment at the lumbar level. Methods We retro-prospectively reviewed the results of unstable thoracolumbar junction fractures with incomplete or intact neurology in 34 consecutive cases operated with alternate two above and one below fixation approach between June 2018 and June 2019 at our institute. Five cases were excluded due to incomplete follow up and the remaining 29 patients were included in the study. Regular follow-up in the postoperative period at three, six, and 12 months was conducted. Data analysis was done by SPSS software version 22 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Results Twenty-nine patients were included in the study out of which 16 were males and 13 were females. The average age was 36.31±1.46 years (range, 14-60 years). The average follow-up duration was 14.31 months. The average injury to surgery interval was 7.17±7.31 days (range, 1-30 days). On analysis via paired t-test, pre-operative kyphotic angle (mean=20.06±8.34º) improved to immediate post-operative (mean=8.44±5.76º, p=0.0001). The postoperative kyphotic angle at 12 months follow-up showed significant stability (Mean=14.13±5.27º, p=0.0001). A median average pre-operative neurological compromise was ASIA score C and Frankel Grade C and the median average disability was an ODI score of 61%-80%. At the end of 12 months of follow-up the median average neurological compromise improved to ASIA Score D and Frankel Grade D and the median average disability improved to an ODI score of 21%-40%. Conclusion Two levels above and one level below hybrid pedicle screw fixation with decompression for the treatment of unstable thoracolumbar fractures with partial and intact neurology was successful within the limited time frame we had for follow-up in preserving progressive post-operative kyphosis, preserving one-motion segment, improving the neurological outcome and disability of the patients without any major complications.

Workflow for the full-mouth rehabilitation of a patient with different prosthetic materials in opposing arches: A bold move in desperate scenario

Fixed rehabilitation is an exhaustive approach for most dental practitioners to treat partial or complete edentulism. In recent years, we are witnessing a digital transformation in prosthodontics and smile makeovers. This requires an in-depth understanding of concepts and the skills to achieve desired clinical results. Many situations of the oral cavity often need fixed rehabilitation treatment. This extensive treatment primarily solves two goals: maintains crown integrity and also achieves optimal esthetics. To restore lost parts of the stomatognathic system, a multidisciplinary approach is of utmost importance. The treatment options may range from removable implant-supported dentures to fixed implant-supported prostheses. The choice of treatment relies on the limitations of anatomic structures and existing. Partial or complete edentulousness can inadvertently reduce the quality of life of the patient and may hinder physiology. This report narrates a combination of two types of dental prosthetic material to obtain a desirable outcome in fixed rehabilitation of a patient. Furthermore, it highlights the management of complete treatment in a limited period and patient appointments.

Students' Performance in Face-to-Face, Online, and Hybrid Methods of Teaching and Assessment in Anatomy

In recent times, online teaching and assessment have provided a great opportunity to explore better methods in medical education. There are inconsistent views concerning the effectiveness of online assessment. Hence, the present study aimed to evaluate online teaching and assessment methods in relation to face-to-face methods by comparing students' performances. The students' assessment results in two basic anatomy courses, which are part of the Doctor of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences programs at Sultan Qaboos University, were analysed. We compared the students' mean scores and coefficient of variance in the multiple-choice written exams and the objective structured practical exams during the spring semesters of 2019, 2020, and 2021, containing face-to-face teaching and exams, partial online teaching and online exams, and online teaching and both proctored online and face-to-face exams, respectively. The sudden transition to online teaching and assessment halfway through the semester resulted in higher means and a lower coefficient of variance among students' scores in both theory and practical exams. However, when the fully adopted online method of teaching and assessment was employed, the mean scores decreased, and the coefficient of variance increased to figures close to those witnessed before the pandemic, when teaching and assessment were face-to-face. This trend applied to both the Doctor of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences programs' anatomy courses. The results indicate that online assessment of theoretical and practical anatomical knowledge is comparable to that of face-to-face assessment. However, proper planning and preparedness are mandatory to achieve the desired outcomes.

Ultra-Hybrid Repair: Open Thoracoabdominal Completion After Descending Stent Grafting

To characterize patient risk profiles and outcomes associated with staged ultra-hybrid repair of extensive aortic disease, in which open thoracoabdominal completion was performed after thoracic stent grafting. From 1/2006 to 1/2021, 92 patients underwent open thoracoabdominal repair of chronic dissection (n=58, 63%), degenerative aneurysm (n=28, 30%), endoleak (n=4, 4.3%), or symptomatic acute type B dissection (n=2, 2.2%) after descending thoracic stent grafting (69, 75%), frozen elephant trunk (5, 5%), or both (18, 20%). The surgical graft was sewn to the distal endovascular device in situ, reducing the extent of the open procedure and eliminating the need for hypothermic circulatory arrest. Mean age was 58±13 years, 89 (97%) were hypertensive, 38 (43%) had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, 63 (72%) were smokers, 20 (24%) had a prior stroke, and 33 (36%) had a suspected or confirmed heritable aortic condition. Hospital mortality was 7.6% (n=7). Complications included dialysis (16, 20%), tracheostomy (8, 8.7%), stroke (5, 5.7%), and permanent paralysis (6, 6.9%). Survival at 1, 3, and 5 years was 80%, 71%, and 66%, respectively. Mortality was associated with higher blood urea nitrogen and longer distance between the distal endograft edge and proximal patent visceral vessel (P=0.004 and .01, respectively). Patients with extensive aortic disease undergoing open aortic repair after thoracic stent grafting are often young with chronic dissection, multiple comorbidities, or a heritable aortic condition. Success of staged ultra-hybrid operations demonstrates open and endovascular repair strategies are complementary, even when performed in a high-risk patient population.

Recent Advances in Natural Product-Based Hybrids as Anti-Cancer Agents

Cancer is one of the top leading causes of death worldwide. It is a heterogenous disease characterized by unregulated cell proliferation and invasiveness of abnormal cells. For the treatment of cancer, natural products have been widely used as a source of therapeutic ingredients since ancient times. Although natural compounds and their derivatives have demonstrated strong antitumor activity in many types of cancer, their poor pharmacokinetic properties, low cell selectivity, limited bioavailability and restricted efficacy against drug-resistant cancer cells hinder their wide clinical application. Conjugation of natural products with other bioactive molecules has given rise to a new field in drug discovery resulting to the development of novel, bifunctional and more potent drugs for cancer therapy to overcome the current drawbacks. This review discusses multiple categories of such bifunctional conjugates and highlights recent trends and advances in the development of natural product hybrids. Among them, ADCs, PDCs, ApDCs, PROTACs and AUTOTACs represent emerging therapeutic agents against cancer.

Unicystic desmoplastic osteo-ameloblastoma of posterior mandible: Report of rarest of the rare case and review of literature

Desmoplastic ameloblastoma (DA) is an epithelial odontogenic tumor and a rare variant of ameloblastoma. It was first described by Eversole in 1984. In the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of odontogenic tumors (2005), DA has been considered as a distinct entity from conventional/multicystic ameloblastoma. DA differs strikingly in its clinical, radiological, and histopathological presentation when compared to other variants of ameloblastoma. We report here an extremely rare "Hybrid DA" in a 50-year-old female patient with painless hard swelling involving right posterior mandible with detailed clinical history, an unusual radiographic and histopathological presentation. Histopathology revealed odontogenic epithelium in the form of follicles, ameloblastoma with cystic degeneration, and squamous metaplasia at places and elsewhere there were odosntogenic islands compressed by dense fibrocellular stroma suggestive of desmoplasia along with osseous tissue formation. Also review of the literature and possible explanation of etiopathogenesis of cystic change and osseous tissue formation in DA are discussed.

Gold Nanorod-Incorporated Halloysite Nanotubes Functionalized with Antibody for Superior Antibacterial Photothermal Treatment

The global spread of antibiotic-resistant strains, and the need to protect the microflora from non-specific antibiotics require more effective and selective alternatives. In this work, we demonstrate for the first time a superior antibacterial photothermal effect of plasmonic gold nanorods (AuNRs) via their incorporation onto natural clay halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), which were functionalized with anti-E. coli antibodies (Ab-HNTs). AuNRs were incorporated onto the Ab-HNTs through a facile freeze-thaw cycle, and antibody integrity following the incorporation was confirmed via infrared spectroscopy and fluorescence immunolabeling. The incorporation efficiency was studied using UV-Vis absorption and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Mixtures of E. coli and AuNR-Ab-HNTs hybrids or free AuNRs were irradiated with an 808 nm laser at 3-4 W cm^-2, and the resulting photothermal antibacterial activity was measured via plate count. The irradiated AuNR-Ab-HNTs hybrids exerted an 8-fold higher antibacterial effect compared to free AuNR under 3.5 W cm^-2; whereas the latter induced a 6 °C-higher temperature elevation. No significant antibacterial activity was observed for the AuNR-Ab-HNTs hybrid against non-target bacteria species (Serratia marcescens and Staphylococcus epidermidis). These findings are ascribed to the localization of the photothermal ablation due to the binding of the antibody-functionalized clay to its target bacteria, as supported through TEM imaging. In the future, the HNTs-based selective carriers presented herein could be tailored with other antibacterial nanoparticles or against another microorganism via the facile adjustment of the immobilized antibody.

Hybrid Biomimetic Nanovesicles to Drive High Lung Biodistribution and Prevent Cytokine Storm for ARDS Treatment

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has been a life threat for patients in ICUs. Vast efforts have been devoted, while no medication has proved viable, which may be ascribed to inadequate drug delivery to damaged tissues and insufficient control of lung inflammation. Given the anti-inflammatory role of M2-type macrophages, M2 macrophage-derived nanovesicles and lung-targeting liposomes are cofused to fabricate hybrid liposomes-nanovesicles (LNVs). Benefiting from the incorporated lung-homing moiety, LNVs demonstrate high pulmonary accumulation with a lung/liver ratio of 14.9, which is approximately 53.3-fold of free nanovesicles. Thus, M2 macrophage-derived nanovesicles can be delivered to lung tissues for executing immunoregulatory functions. LNVs display phagocytosis by the infiltrated neutrophils and macrophages, exhibiting sustained release of preloaded IKK-2 inhibitor (TPCA-1). The integrated nanosystems demonstrate multidimensional suppression of the overwhelming inflammation, such as decreasing infiltration of inflammatory cells, achieving restraint on cytokine storms and alleviating oxidative stress. Therefore, the improved therapeutic outcome in ARDS mice is obtained. Altogether, the hybrid nanoplatform provides a versatile drug delivery paradigm for integrating biological nanovesicles and therapeutic molecules by cofusion of nanovesicles with liposomes, improving lung biodistribution and accomplishing a boosted anti-inflammatory response for ARDS therapy.

Fast-Response Photodetector Based on Hybrid Bi2Te3/PbS Colloidal Quantum Dots

Colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) as photodetector materials have attracted much attention in recent years due to their tunable energy bands, low cost, and solution processability. However, their intrinsically low carrier mobility and three-dimensional (3D) confinement of charges are unsuitable for use in fast-response and highly sensitive photodetectors, hence greatly restricting their application in many fields. Currently, 3D topological insulators, such as bismuth telluride (Bi₂Te₃), have been employed in high-speed broadband photodetectors due to their narrow bulk bandgap, high carrier mobility, and strong light absorption. In this work, the advantages of topological insulators and CQDs were realized by developing a hybrid Bi₂Te₃/PbS CQDs photodetector that exhibited a maximum responsivity and detectivity of 18 A/W and 2.1 × 10¹¹ Jones, respectively, with a rise time of 128 μs at 660 nm light illumination. The results indicate that such a photodetector has potential application in the field of fast-response and large-scale integrated optoelectronic devices.

Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Hybrid AZ91 Magnesium Matrix Composite with Ti and SiC Particles

In this paper, a new hybrid metal matrix composite, named AZ91/(SiC + Ti)_p, is presented. The commercial AZ91 magnesium alloy was chosen as the matrix. The composite was reinforced with both SiC and Ti particles. The investigated material was successfully fabricated using stir casting methods. Microstructure analyses were carried out by digital and scanning electron microscopy with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (SEM + EDX). Detailed investigations disclosed the presence (besides the reinforced particles) of primary dendrites of the α phase, α + γ eutectic and some part of discontinuous precipitates of the γ phase in the composite microstructure. The composite was characterised by uniform distribution of the Ti particles, whereas the SiC particles were revealed inside the primary dendrites of the α phase, on the Ti particles and in the interdendritic regions as a mixture with the α + γ eutectic. Both the tensile and compression strength as well as the yield strength of the composite were examined in both uniaxial tensile and compression tests at room temperature. The fabricated AZ91/(SiC + Ti)_p hybrid composite exhibited higher mechanical properties of all those investigated in comparison with the unreinforced AZ91 matrix alloy (cast in the same conditions). Additionally, analyses of the fracture surfaces of the AZ91/(SiC + Ti)_p hybrid composite carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM + EDX) were presented.

New SHapley Additive ExPlanations (SHAP) Approach to Evaluate the Raw Materials Interactions of Steel-Fiber-Reinforced Concrete

Recently, artificial intelligence (AI) approaches have gained the attention of researchers in the civil engineering field for estimating the mechanical characteristics of concrete to save the effort, time, and cost of researchers. Consequently, the current research focuses on assessing steel-fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) in terms of flexural strength (FS) prediction by employing delicate AI techniques as well as to predict the raw material interaction that is still a research gap. In this study, the FS of SFRC is estimated by deploying supervised machine learning (ML) techniques, such as DT-Gradient Boosting, DT-XG Boost, DT-AdaBoost, and DT-Bagging. In addition to that, the performance model is also evaluated by using R², root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute error (MAE). Furthermore, the k-fold cross-validation method is also applied to validate the model's performance. It is observed that DT-Bagging with an R² value of 0.95 is superior to DT-XG Boost, DT-Gradient Boosting, and DT-AdaBoost. Lesser error MAE and RMSE and higher R² values for the DT-Bagging model show the enhanced performance of the model compared to the other ensembled approaches. Considerable conservation of time, effort, and cost can be made by applying ML techniques to predict concrete properties. The evaluation of the outcome depicts that the estimated results of DT-Bagging are closer to the experimental results, indicating the accurate estimation of SFRC flexural strength. It is further revealed from the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) study that the volumetric content of steel fiber highly and positively influences the FS of SFRC.

Compact Multilayer Extension Actuators for Reconfigurable Soft Robots

Soft robotic pneumatic actuators generally excel in the specific application they were designed for but lack the versatility to be redeployed to other applications. This study presents a novel and versatile soft compact multilayer extension actuator (MEA) to overcome this limitation. We use the MEA linear output in different hybrid configurations to achieve this versatility. The unique design and fabrication of the MEA allow for a compact elastomeric actuator with innate tension, capable of reverting to its initial state without the need for external stimulus. The MEA is made from alternating elastomers with different Young's modulus, bestowing the MEA with high durability, force, and extension capabilities. In addition, the MEA is lightweight at 4 g, capable of a high force-to-weight ratio of 1000 and an extension ratio of 525%. We also explored varying the MEA parameters, such as its material and dimension, which further enhance its properties. Subsequently, we showed four different design configurations encompassing the MEA to produce four basic motions, that is, push, pull, bend, and twist. Finally, we demonstrated three possible hybrid configurations for manipulation, locomotion, and assistive applications that highlight the versatility, manipulability, and modularity of the MEA.

Hybrid Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor: an Effective Strategy for Cancer Therapy

Inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDACs) has proven to be an effective strategy for cancer therapy. To date, five histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) have been approved for cancer treatment, and numerous others are undergoing clinical trials. It is proposed an agent that can simultaneously and effectively inhibit two or more targets may offer greater therapeutic benefits over single-acting agents in both preventing resistance to treatment and potentiating synergistic effects. A prime example of a bifunctional agent is the hybrid HDACi. Representative classes of reported hybrid HDACis are reviewed here with the purpose of shedding light on the design of novel hybrid HDACis for cancer therapy.