Fast Recovery Time Research Articles

Australian Spine Surgeon's Perspectives on Endoscopic Spine Surgery: An In-depth Analysis.

Endoscopic spine surgery (ESS) is a minimally invasive approach with reduced tissue trauma, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. It employs advanced endoscopic instruments and imaging technologies to address a wide range of spinal pathologies with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. As ESS continues to evolve, this article aims to gather insights into the opinions and perspectives of the key stakeholders involved, and highlight strategies to improve implementation. A cross-sectional survey was distributed to collect data on Australian spine surgeons' perspectives of ESS. The survey questionnaire was distributed electronically to a diverse group of spine surgeons who are members of the Spine Society of Australia. Of responders, 46.8% were already integrating ESS into practice, or had the sufficient training to commence ESS. A further 29.8% were contemplating introduction of ESS techniques, while just under one quarter of respondents (23.4%) were not interested in implementing minimally invasive techniques. Primary motivators for implementation included skill development and improved patient outcomes. Primary barriers included lack of training opportunities, length of time to develop competency and lack of current supporting evidence. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on ESS by providing a comprehensive analysis of surgeon opinions and experiences. The results highlight the growing interest in endoscopic techniques, while recognizing the challenges that need to be addressed to make this more widely utilised and available. The findings can guide future research, training programs, clinical practice and ultimately improve health and financial outcomes to patients and the wider health system.

Total intravenous anaesthesia in rural sub-Saharan Africa: report of 25 cases.

Total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) is a potential solution for safe and effective anesthesia administration in rural regions of sub-Saharan Africa, where access to inhalational anesthesia may be limited. However, challenges such as equipment and medication availability, as well as a shortage of trained anesthesiologists, can limit the use of TIVA. In this study, the safety and efficacy of TIVA were evaluated in a case series of 25 female patients undergoing thyroid surgery in a rural area of sub-Saharan Africa. The TIVA protocol involved the use of propofol, fentanyl, rocuronium, and sugammadex. Results showed that TIVA was a safe and effective method of anesthesia administration in this setting, with no major adverse events reported. The use of TIVA may offer advantages such as faster recovery times, reduced incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, and reduced risk of environmental pollution compared to inhalational anesthesia. However, the cost and monitoring requirements of TIVA may pose challenges in resource-limited settings. Further research is needed to determine the optimal use of TIVA in this context.

Pseudo-Resistor-Based ECG Amplifier: Design, Implementation and Temperature Characterization

Biomedical signal amplifiers are fundamental in various medical applications for acquiring crucial biological signals such as ECG, EEG, and EMG. The use of pseudo-resistors has been recently studied for biological amplifiers, mainly because of their fast recovery time after interference pulses, which are frequent in such applications. The previous studies on pseudo-resistors are limited to simulation, modeling, and implementing some narrow-bandwidth amplifiers. For the first time, this study uses the piecewise linear (PWL) model integrated with pseudo-resistors to design a tailored circuit for ECG applications, with 0.04 Hz to 2 kHz bandwidth for the full application temperature range. The circuit is fully modeled, simulated, and characterized, fine-tuning the feedback capacitance values to optimize performance within the crucial temperature range for biomedical applications. This full bandwidth amplifier represents a significant advancement in biomedical signal amplification technology, ensuring comprehensive signal fidelity allied to fast recovery response.

Our Experience of Laparoscopic Living Donor Nephrectomy

Background Donor nephrectomy for living donor kidney transplantation using minimally invasive techniques is a safe procedure that has been used for more than 20 years with excellent results. The total minimally invasive approach offers decreased postoperative pain, better cosmesis, a lower chance of incisional hernia, and a faster recovery time. Methods We present the results of a series of 120 laparoscopic donor nephrectomies performed at our center. The procedures were performed with transperitoneal access using the standard five ports. The main renal artery and vein were ligated using a hemo-o-lock clip. The specimen was extracted through the additional inguinal incision. Results All procedures were performed laparoscopically without conversion to open surgery. The average warm ischemia time was 4.0 min. In all recipients, immediate kidney allograft function was seen. Conclusion Total laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy is a safe procedure that gives the highest benefit to the donor. It was performed successfully in all cases, with a short operative time and no morbidity or mortality.

Enhancing the electrochemical and photoelectrochemical effects in CNTs@CoMgS@AC nanocomposite based electrode materials for advanced hybrid supercapacitors

Hybrid supercapacitors (HSCs) have received a lot of interest because of their excellent stability and energy storage capacity. To design a HSC device, we synthesized cobalt magnesium sulfide (CoMgS) using an easy hydrothermal technique. Thesurface properties, crystallinity, elemental analysis, and homogeneity are analysed. The CNT@CoMgS nanocomposite is demonstrated a considerably improved specific capacity (Qs) of 698.88C/g or 1164.8F/g compared to the other samples. The CNT@CoMgS//AC-based HSC revealed a high Qs value of 249.88C/g and an energy density of 70 Wh/kg with an astonishing power density of 880 W/kg. In photoelectrochemical activity, the CNT@CoMgS electrode exhibited a fast response and recovery time with good photoactivity, which is used to perform excellent photo switching. Hence, the CNT@CoMgS@AC electrode demonstrated extraordinary performance because of its largesurface area, quick transport of charge carriers, and extraordinary rate capability, which emphasizes its promise for electrochemical energy storage applications.

Trace carbon nitride-decorated SnO2 lamella boosting ultra-high response and fast recovery of NO2 gas at low temperature

The low-temperature NO2 gas sensors with ultra-high response are more helpful for their real-time and accurate monitoring in complex environment, however, the relevant reports are very less. Herein, we firstly prepared graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) by pyrolysis of inexpensive melamine, which was used as template and directly soaked into SnCl4 ethanol/water solution. Afterwards, the immersed precursors were calcined to generate different SnO2-based materials. Among, the morphology of g-C3N4/SnO2-5 calcined at 500 °C is lamella structure composed of trace g-C3N4 and small-size SnO2 nanoparticles, which possesses narrow mesopores, large specific surface area, rich oxygen vacancy defects, as well as high concentration of surface O2-(ad) species. Under the synergy of multiple favorable factors, g-C3N4/SnO2-5 sensor exhibits ultra-high response (S = 12171) for 10 ppm NO2 gas at 92 °C, which is 1.93 times than that of SnO2-6 sensor. It is also the highest response value among reported g-C3N4/metal oxide composites. In addition, this sensor has fast recovery time (5 s), low detection limit, good moisture resistance and stability. Thus, the simple g-C3N4 template method provides a new strategy for the fabrication of gas sensors with highly efficient sensing ability.

Unilateral Biportal Endoscopy for the Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation.

Unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) is a minimally invasive spinal surgery technique increasingly employed in treating degenerative lumbar diseases, such as lumbar disc herniation, lumbar spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis. In UBE, two independent yet interconnected surgical channels are established-one for the endoscope and the other for surgical instruments-providing a broad and clear surgical field of view. UBE offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including reduced tissue damage, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. Additionally, it combines the benefits of microscopic surgery and interlaminar endoscopy, enhancing flexibility, accuracy, and reliability during the procedure. The learning curve for UBE is shorter than that for transforaminal endoscopy, as the surgical processes closely resemble those of conventional open surgery. Despite its favorable clinical outcomes, such as reduced blood loss and shorter hospitalization, UBE carries potential complications, including epidural hematoma, dural injury, and compression of the outlet nerve root. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to ensure appropriate patient selection, apply the correct surgical technique, and engage in careful postoperative monitoring. This article provides a detailed summary of the step-by-step surgical techniques used in UBE for treating lumbar disc herniation. It serves as a comprehensive guide to enhance practitioners' understanding of UBE. The presentation also underscores the importance of rigorous training and expertise to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Enhancement in the optical and carbon dioxide gas sensing properties of polythiophene by dispersion of manganese dioxide nanoparticles

The present research article demonstrates the dispersion of manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanoparticles in polythiophene (PTh) to enhance the optical and gas sensing properties of PTh/MnO2 nanocomposites. The structural aspects of the as-synthesized nanocomposites were demonstrated by the techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Furthermore, the optical characterization of the resulting composite was investigated using UV–Vis spectroscopy. UV–Vis analyses of obtained nanocomposite revealed a forbidden band of ∼ 3.7 eV. The prepared nanocomposites were exposed to CO2 gas to investigate the composites suitability for gas sensing application, which prove to be promising materials. The prominent exploit of the present work is that 0.8 Wt. % MnO2 loaded PTh composite material exhibits significant sensing response at low operating temperature including good stability and fast response and recovery time. The core objective of this work is the discussion of the enhancement in stability, response and recovery time as a consequence of the interaction between the CO2 gas and the as-synthesized nanocomposites.

Advancements in Robotic Surgery: A Comprehensive Overview of Current Utilizations and Upcoming Frontiers.

Robotic surgery, a groundbreaking advancement in medical technology, has redefined the landscape of surgical procedures. This comprehensive overview explores the multifaceted world of robotic surgery, encompassing its definition, historical development, current applications, clinical outcomes, benefits, emerging frontiers, challenges, and future implications. We delve into the fundamentals of robotic surgical systems, examining their components and advantages. From general and gynecological surgery to urology, cardiac surgery, orthopedics, and beyond, we highlight the diverse specialties where robotic surgery is making a significant impact. The many benefits discussed include improved patient outcomes, reduced complications, faster recovery times, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced surgeon experiences. The outlook reveals a healthcare landscape where robotic surgery is increasingly vital, enabling personalized medicine, bridging healthcare disparities, and advancing surgical precision. However, challenges such as cost, surgeon training, technical issues, ethical considerations, and patient acceptance remain relevant. In conclusion, robotic surgery is poised to continue shaping the future of health care, offering transformative possibilities while emphasizing the importance of collaboration, innovation, and ethical governance.

Rapid and ultrahighly sensitive ethanol sensing in p-type SrTi1‐xFexO3

Gas sensors based on p-type semiconducting metal oxides have recently received significant attention due to their superior gas selectivity compared to those based on n-type metal oxides. Nevertheless, p-type metal oxides-based gas sensors have limitations such as low sensitivity and slow response. Herein, we present highly sensitive and fast responding ethanol (C2H5OH) gas sensors that are composed of p-type SrTi1−xFexO3 (STF) with various Fe compositions deposited on vertically aligned SiO2 nanorods (NRs) with a larger surface-to-volume ratio than STF thin films. As the Fe content increases, the charge transfer energy between adsorbed oxygen species and transition cations decreases, and the amount of oxygen vacancy increases, This results in the acceleration of charge transfer and the generation of active sites. The fabricated STF on SiO2 NRs exhibited gas responses ranging from 74 to 528 for 50 ppm ethanol gas depending on the Fe content with fast response and recovery time, overcoming the low sensitivity and slow response of previously reported p-type gas sensors. The observed unprecedented synergistic effects of STF on SiO2 NRs for highly selective ethanol sensing establish a new perspective on quaternary p-type perovskites for selective gas sensing in which n-type metal oxides have been used.

2D Ti3C2Tx-MXene nanosheets and graphene oxide based highly sensitive humidity sensor for wearable and flexible electronics

To explore the potential of Ti3C2Tx-MXenes as an electrode over traditional metals, we designed a high-performance and cost-effective humidity sensor using 2D Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets (TMNSs) as electrodes and Graphene oxide (GO) as a sensing layer. The sensor was fabricated on a flexible and transparent Cyclic Olefin Copolymer (COC) substrate using UV-photolithography, spin coating, and spray coating techniques. Electrical impedance measurements demonstrated the sensor's remarkable sensitivity to humidity, with a response range of 6 % to 97 % at frequencies of 1 kHz and 10 kHz. The sensor exhibited fast response and recovery times of 0.8 s and 0.9 s, respectively, and maintained stable performance over 24 h. We further employed DFT simulations to establish the atomic level understanding of humidity sensing. The findings demonstrated the presence of a physical bond between the hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O) atoms, which are part of the water molecule and OH group, respectively, in the process of humidity sensing. Furthermore, the OH-configuration of graphene oxide (GO) acts as the main active site in humidity sensing, outperforming the O-configuration, due to its higher adsorption energy and charge transfer. Moreover, real-world applications for this 2D materials-based sensor were demonstrated, including non-contact proximity sensing and human breathing detection, demonstrating its potential. This study makes a substantial contribution to the development of low-cost humidity sensors based on 2D materials, with implications for a wide range of humidity sensing applications.

Controlled etching of MXene for highly selective triethylamine detection at room temperature

MXene, exemplified by Ti3C2Tx, was obtained as a viable candidate for sensing gases at room temperature. However, in the current study, increased power consumption and poor process reproducibility resulted from the long cycle times to prepare MXene and MXene-based gas-sensitive materials. In this study, a six-sided high-intensity ultrasonic wave was applied to the etching environment, and a series of MAX-MXene heterostructures were effectively obtained in one step by adjusting the etchant content. Due to the unique structure of MXene flake and the generation of endogenous MAX-MXene heterostructure, the MAM gas sensor exhibits a response value of 4.1% to 10 ppm TEA at room temperature (23 °C) and relative humidity of 84%, providing fast response recovery time, low electric noise and excellent selectivity, with a comprehensive gas sensing performance superior to that of the pristine MXene materials reported before. This study provides new ideas for designing and applying new substrate materials based on MAX and MXene.

Pinhole-free CsCu2I3 thin films by I2-modification for solar-blind ultraviolet photodetector and application to free-space optical communication

Recently, copper-based lead-free perovskites have emerged as a promising material due to their unique physical properties, abundance on earth, and lower toxicity. Among them, CsCu2I3 has received extensive attention for optoelectronic device applications due to its excellent air stability and stable self-trapped exciton-based yellow emission. However, the inherent one-dimensional crystal structure of CsCu2I3-based perovskite makes it difficult to control the morphology during the synthesis process, which results in a high density of pinhole defects on the thin films. Here, we reported a strategy to obtain a high-quality and pinhole-free CsCu2I3 thin film by modifying growth kinetics by adding I2 during synthesis. The I2-modified CsCu2I3 film improved surface morphology while preserving crystalline and optical properties. Therefore, the ultraviolet (UV) photodetector based on the I2-modified CsCu2I3 film showed enhanced performances in the solar-blind waveband, including a high responsivity of 1.74 μA/W and fast response and recovery times of 0.684 and 0.686 s, respectively. Finally, the solar-blind UV photodetector based on the I2-modified CsCu2I3 thin film exhibited outstanding demonstration in optical communication systems without ambient interference, indicating its potential for various optoelectronic applications.

Safety and efficacy of remimazolam compared with midazolam during bronchoscopy: a single-center, randomized controlled study

Although remimazolam is an ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine with a shorter elimination half-life and faster recovery time than midazolam, studies evaluating its safety and efficacy during bronchoscopy are limited. This study aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of remimazolam with those of midazolam for bronchoscopy. This prospective randomized parallel-group study was conducted at a single institution. The primary outcome was the time from the end of the procedure to full alertness. Other procedural time parameters, satisfaction profiles, and adverse effects were thoroughly evaluated. The time taken to reach peak sedation and the time from the end of the procedure to full alertness was significantly shorter in the remimazolam group than in the midazolam group (median [interquartile range], 2 min [1–4] vs. 3 min [2–5], P = 0.006; and median, 2 min [1–5] vs. 5 min [1–12], P = 0.035, respectively). In patients with non-biopsy procedures (n = 79), participant satisfaction was significantly higher in the remimazolam group than in the midazolam group (median rated scale, 10 vs. 7, P = 0.042). Physician satisfaction and willingness to repeat the procedure were similar between groups. Although the incidence of adverse effects was similar between the groups and there was no significant difference, the midazolam group had a higher antidote administration rate than the remimazolam group (15.7% vs. 4.1%, P = 0.092). Remimazolam is effective and safe for achieving adequate sedation, with a shorter onset time and faster neuropsychiatric recovery than midazolam. It may be a new option for sedation during bronchoscopy.Trial registration: The trial registration number is NCT05994547, and the date of first registration is 16/08/2023.

Unveiling the potential of PANI@MnO2@rGO ternary nanocomposite in energy storage and gas sensing

The development of advanced materials for energy storage and gas sensing applications has gained significant attention in recent years. In this study, we synthesized and characterized PANI@MnO2@rGO ternary nanocomposites (NCs) to explore their potential in supercapacitors and gas sensing devices. The ternary NCs were synthesized through a multi-step process involving the hydrothermal synthesis of MnO2 nanoparticles, preparation of PANI@rGO composites and the assembly to the ternary PANI@MnO2@rGO ternary NCs. The structural, morphological, and compositional characteristics of the materials were thoroughly analyzed using techniques such as XRD, FESEM, TEM, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy. In the realm of gas sensing, the ternary NCs exhibited excellent performance as NH3 gas sensors. The optimized operating temperature of 100 °C yielded a peak response of 15.56 towards 50 ppm NH3. The nanocomposites demonstrated fast response and recovery times of 6 s and 10 s, respectively, and displayed remarkable selectivity for NH3 gas over other tested gases. For supercapacitor applications, the electrochemical performance of the ternary NCs was evaluated using cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge techniques. The composites exhibited pseudocapacitive behavior, with the capacitance reaching up to 185 F/g at 1 A/g and excellent capacitance retention of approximately 88.54% over 4000 charge-discharge cycles. The unique combination of rGO, PANI, and MnO2 nanoparticles in these ternary NCs offer synergistic advantages, showcasing their potential to address challenges in energy storage and gas sensing technologies.

Advancing the pressure sensing performance and biocompatible of conductive rGO/PEDOT/PDMS composite film for simple and efficient pressure sensor

Recently, the demand for superior wearable strain sensors has been growing steadily with the widespread application of stretchable electronics. Based on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT):polystyrene sulfonate, it has good compatibility with graphene doping. Herein, an uncomplicated and capable pressure sensor based on PEDOT/PDMS-wrapped free-standing reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was devised and manufactured. The graphene-containing composite conductor exhibits superb electrical conductivity, resilience, and piezoresistive effect, and surprisingly exhibits excellent antibacterial capabilities and cycling constancy. The fast response and recovery times of this pressure sensor are below 9 and 21 ms, respectively. The magnitude of current changes did not fluctuate significantly after 10 000 cycles of use, which indicates the great dependence of the sensor. Strain sensors as one of primary demand is that composite conductors are attached straight to the mortal skin (joints, elbows and knees) for actual-time monitoring.

Highly stretchable anti-freeze hydrogel based on aloe polysaccharides with high ionic conductivity for multifunctional wearable sensors

Conductive hydrogels have limitations such as non-degradability, loss of electrical conductivity at sub-zero temperatures, and single functionality, which limit their applicability as materials for wearable sensors. To overcome these limitations, this study proposes a bio-based hydrogel using aloe polysaccharides as the matrix and degradable polyvinyl alcohol as a reinforcing material. The hydrogel was crosslinked with borax in a glycerol–water binary solvent system, producing good toughness and compressive strength. Furthermore, the hydrogel was developed as a sensor that could detect both small and large deformations with a low detection limit of 1 % and high stretchability of up to 300 %. Moreover, the sensor exhibited excellent frost resistance at temperatures above −50 °C, and the gauge factor of the hydrogel was 2.86 at 20 °C and 2.12 at −20 °C. The Aloe-polysaccharide-based conductive hydrogels also functioned effectively as a wearable sensor; it detected a wide range of humidities (0–98 % relative humidity) and exhibited fast response and recovery times (1.1 and 0.9 s) while detecting normal human breathing. The polysaccharide hydrogel was also temperature sensitive (1.737 % °C−1) and allowed for information sensing during handwriting.

Pediatric Transplant Interventions

The field of pediatric organ transplantation has grown significantly in recent decades, with interventional radiology (IR) playing an essential role in managing pre- and post-transplant complications. Pediatric transplant patients face unique challenges compared to adults, including donor-recipient size mismatch, and complications of a growing child with changing physiology. Interventional radiologists play a major role in pediatric renal and liver transplant. IR interventions begin early in the child's pre-transplant journey, with diagnostic procedures such as biopsies, angiograms, and cholangiograms. These procedures are essential for understanding the etiology of organ failure and identifying potential transplant candidates. Minimally invasive therapeutic procedures may serve as bridges to transplant and may include vascular access optimization for hemodialysis, TIPS shunt creation, and tumor embolization or ablation. After transplant, image-guided biopsies for the surveillance of graft rejection and treatment of vascular or luminal stenoses, pseudoaneurysms, and anastomotic leaks can maintain the function and longevity of the transplant organ. Careful consideration must be given to patient size and evolving anatomy, radiation exposure, and the need for deeper sedation for pediatric patients. Despite these challenges, the integration of IR in pediatric transplant care has proven beneficial, offering minimally invasive alternatives to surgery, faster recovery times, and improved outcomes.

Layer Engineered MXene Empowered Wearable Pressure Sensors for Non‐Invasive Vital Human–Machine Interfacing Healthcare Monitoring

AbstractPressure sensors with high flexibility and sensitivity face significant challenges in meeting the delicate balance and synergy among suitable active sensing electrode materials, substrates, and their device geometry design. In this contribution, layer‐engineered delaminated Ti‐MXene (DL‐Ti3C2Tx) is introduced, which has relatively wider interlayer spacing through intercalated large organic molecules and accordion‐like open internal microstructure than the narrower pristine Ti3C2Tx MXene (Ti‐MXene), graphene/carbon nanotube's interlayer spacing suitably fulfill the high sensitivity and flexibility requirement through accessible electronic pathways under the external pressure. Notably, a milder in‐situ ambient condition etching is performed to eliminate the associated safety risks for a flexible personal healthcare monitoring pressure sensor. DL‐Ti3C2Tx MXene‐empowered, flexible pressure sensor demonstrates a broad range of sensitivities up to a very high‐pressure of 20.8 kPa at a sensitivity of 242.3 kPa−1 with a fast response and recovery time (<300 ms). A twofold increase in pressure sensitivity performance of DL‐Ti3C2Tx MXene than that of Ti‐MXene, graphene can be attributed to the engineered wider interlayer distance among the delaminated DL‐Ti3C2Tx MXene layers causing a facile interlayer atomic movements, contacts, and reversible compressibility. The current economical, scalable DL‐Ti3C2Tx MXene flexible pressure sensor can provide future safe personal healthcare artificial intelligence with real‐time tracking ability.

Adaptive Fast XGBoost for Multiclass Classification

The popularization of sensoring and connectivity technologies like 5G and IoT are boosting the generation of data streams. Such kinds of data are one of the last frontiers of data mining applications. However, data streams are massive and unbounded sequences of non-stationary data objects that are continuously generated at rapid rates. To deal with these challenges, the learning algorithms should analyze the data just once and update their classifiers to handle the concept drifts. The literature presents some algorithms to deal with the classification of multiclass data streams. However, most of them have high processing time. Therefore, this work proposes a XGBoost-based classifier called AFXGB-MC to fast classify non-stationary data streams with multiple classes. We compared it with the six state-of-the-art algorithms for multiclass classification found in the literature. The results pointed out that AFXGB-MC presents similar accuracy performance, but with faster processing time, being twice faster than the second fastest algorithm from the literature, and having fast drift recovery time.