Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Health-Related Quality of Life of Patients With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis at Least 40 Years After Surgery

Study Design. Retrospective study. Objective. The aim was to clarify the health-related quality of life (QOL) of patients who had adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) at a minimum of 40 years after surgery. Summary of Background Data. The postoperative health-related QOL of middle-aged patients with AIS has been reported to be good, but that of middle-aged and older patients with AIS has yet to be completely explored. Materials and Methods. We included 179 patients with AIS who underwent spinal fusion(s) between 1968 and 1982. We conducted three surveys in 2009, 2014, and 2022. Patients self-administered both the Scoliosis Research Society-22 and the Roland-Morris Disability questionnaires three times (in 2009, 2014, and 2022) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) questionnaire was self-administered in 2014 and 2022. We considered patients who responded to all three surveys in 2009, 2014, and 2022. Results. For the Scoliosis Research Society-22 questionnaires, no significant differences were detected among the three time points (2009, 2014, and 2022) for total scores, function domain, pain domain, self-image domain, mental domain, or satisfaction domain. The results of the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire were also not significantly different among the surveys over time. The ODI questionnaires revealed a significant worsening of the 2022 results compared with the 2014 results. Eight patients (29.6%) who had an ODI deterioration of 10% or more had numerically fewer mobile lumbar disks than those with <10% deterioration of the ODI, although the difference did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion. Among patients with AIS who underwent spinal fusion(s) between 1968 and 1982, we found health-related QOL to be maintained over the last 13 years. Relatively good QOL was appreciated in this population of patients who are now middle-aged and older.
Long-Term Hearing Outcome After Radiosurgery for Vestibular Schwannoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND: Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is one of the main treatment options in the management of small to medium size vestibular schwannomas (VSs), because of high tumor control rate and low cranial nerves morbidity. Series reporting long-term hearing outcome (>3 years) are scarce. OBJECTIVE: To perform a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis, with the aim of focusing on long-term hearing preservation after SRS. METHODS: Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we reviewed articles published between January 1990 and October 2020 and referenced in PubMed or Embase. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed clinical study or case series of VSs treated with SRS (single dose), reporting hearing outcome after SRS with a median or mean audiometric follow-up of at least 5 years. Hearing preservation, cranial nerves outcomes, and tumor control were evaluated. RESULTS: Twenty-three studies were included. Hearing preservation was found in 59.4% of cases (median follow-up 6.7 years, 1409 patients). Main favorable prognostic factors were young age, good hearing status, early treatment after diagnosis, small tumor volume, low marginal irradiation dose, and maximal dose to the cochlea. Tumor control was achieved in 96.1%. Facial nerve deficit and trigeminal neuropathy were found in 1.3% and 3.2% of patients, respectively, both significantly higher in Linear Accelerator series than Gamma Knife series (P < .05). CONCLUSION: Long-term hearing preservation remains one of the main issues after SRS, with a major impact on health-related quality of life. Our meta-analysis suggests that hearing preservation can be achieved in almost 60% of patients after a median follow-up of 6.7 years, irrespective of the technique.
Insulin decreases epileptiform activity in rat layer 5/6 prefrontal cortex in vitro

Accumulating evidence indicates that insulin‐mediated signaling in the brain may play important roles in regulating neuronal function. Alterations to insulin signaling are associated with the development of neurological disorders including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Also, hyperglycemia and insulin resistance have been associated with seizure activity and brain injury. In recent work, we found that insulin increased inhibitory GABAA‐mediated tonic currents in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). In this work, we used local field potential recordings and calcium imaging to investigate the effect of insulin on seizure‐like activity in PFC slices. Seizure‐like events (SLEs) were induced by perfusing the slices with magnesium‐free artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF) containing the proconvulsive compound 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP). We found that insulin decreased the frequency, amplitude, and duration of SLEs as well as the synchronic activity of PFC neurons evoked by 4‐AP. These insulin effects were mediated by the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and mimicked by gaboxadol (THIP), a δ GABAA receptor agonist. The effect of insulin on the number of SLEs was partially blocked by L‐655,708, an inverse agonist with high selectivity for GABAA receptors containing the α5 subunit. Our results suggest that insulin reduces neuronal excitability by an increase of GABAergic tonic currents. The physiological relevance of these findings is discussed.
The Herbig B0e star HD 53367: circumstellar activity and evidence of binarity

Aims. We investigate the spectroscopic behaviour of the young B0e star HD 53367 within a cooperative observing programme conducted from 1994 to 2005. Methods. The data include more than 100 high-resolution spectra collected at the Crimean Astronomical Observatory (CrAO) near H α , H β , He i λ 5876, 6678 A, DNa i, and O ii λ 6641 A lines. Two spectra obtained at the Observatorio do Pico dos Dias (LNA), in the spectral bands $\lambda\lambda$ 4575–4725 A and $\lambda\lambda$ 5625–5775 A, were used for spectral classification of HD 53367. The temporal behaviour of the circumstellar lines H α and H β as well as the photospheric lines O ii λ 6641 A and He i λ 6678 A were investigated during different stages of the photometric activity of this object. Results. We confirm that the long-term photometric variability of HD 53367 is related to the alternation of two states of this object when the gaseous circumstellar envelope disappears and rises again. Both these processes start near the star and spread to the outlying parts of the envelope. We find that the radial velocities of He i and O ii photospheric lines demonstrate a cyclic variability with a period of $P=183.7$ days and semi-amplitude $K=19$ km s -1 . The radial velocity change is interpreted in the framework of a model in which the star is a component of an eccentric binary system. An orbital solution is derived and the system's parameters estimated. We find that the orbital eccentricity is $e=0.28$, and the mean companion separation is 1.7 AU. Conclusions. Based on the estimated parameters, we conclude that the system consists of a massive (~$20\,M_\odot$) main sequence primary B0e star, and a secondary which is most likely a 5 solar mass pre-main sequence object. We found evidence that the main part of the circumstellar gas in this system is concentrated near the secondary companion. Although the young age of HD 53367, its evolved primary B0e star seems to have already became a classical Be star exhibiting a specific alternation of the B–Be stages.
Die Pathologie

Background: Regulation (EU) 2017/746 on in vitro diagnostic medical devices (IVDR) was passed by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union on 5 April 2017 and came into force on 26 May 2017. A new amending regulation, which introduces a phased implementation of the IVDR with new transitional provisions for certain in vitro diagnostic medical devices (IVDs) and a later date of application of some requirements for in-house devices for healthcare facilities, was adopted on 15 December 2021. The combined use of CE-certiﬁed IVDs (CE-IVDs), in-house IVDs (IH-IVDs), and research use only (RUO) devices are a cornerstone of diagnostics in pathology departments and crucial for optimal patient care. The IVDR not only regulates the manufacture and placement on the market of industrially manufactured IVDs, but also imposes conditions on the manufacture and use of IH-IVDs for internal use by healthcare facilities. Objectives: Our work provides an overview of the background and structure of the IVDR and identiﬁes core areas that need to be interpreted and ﬂeshed out in the context of the legal framework as well as expert knowledge. Conclusions: The gaps and ambiguities in the IVDR crucially require the expertise of professional societies, alliances, and individual stakeholders to successfully facilitate the implementation and use of the IVDR in pathology departments and to avoid aberrant developments.
A note on the convergence of the discontinuous Galerkin method for a scalar hyperbolic equation

A numerical example is presented which shows that the known $L^2$ error estimate $\left\| {u - u^h } \right\| \leqq Ch^{k + {1 / 2}} \left\| u \right\|_{k + 1} $ for the discontinuous Galerkin method cannot be improved within the class of quasi-uniform meshes, not even for smooth exact solutions u.
The contribution of smoking and smokeless tobacco to oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma risk in the African oesophageal cancer corridor: Results from the ESCCAPE multicentre case‐control studies

Tobacco use is a well‐established risk factor for oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) but the extent of its contribution to the disease burden in the African oesophageal cancer corridor has not been comprehensively elucidated, including by type of tobacco use. We investigated the contribution of tobacco use (smoking and smokeless) to ESCC in Tanzania, Malawi and Kenya. Hospital‐based ESCC case‐control studies were conducted in the three countries. Incident cases and controls were interviewed using a comprehensive questionnaire which included questions on tobacco smoking and smokeless tobacco use. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) of ESCC associated with tobacco, adjusted for age, sex, alcohol use, religion, education and area of residence. One thousand two hundred seventy‐nine cases and 1345 controls were recruited between August 5, 2013, and May 24, 2020. Ever‐tobacco use was associated with increased ESCC risk in all countries: Tanzania (OR 3.09, 95%CI 1.83‐5.23), and in Malawi (OR 2.45, 95%CI 1.80‐3.33) and lesser in Kenya (OR 1.37, 95%CI 0.94‐2.00). Exclusive smokeless tobacco use was positively associated with ESCC risk, in Tanzania, Malawi and Kenya combined (OR 1.92, 95%CI 1.26‐2.92). ESCC risk increased with tobacco smoking intensity and duration of smoking. Tobacco use is an important risk factor of ESCC in Tanzania, Malawi and Kenya. Our study provides evidence that smoking and smokeless tobacco cessation are imperative in reducing ESCC risk.
Investigating the effect of ribavirin treatment on genetic mutations in Crimean–Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) through next‐generation sequencing

Crimean–Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is the most widespread tick‐borne viral haemorrhagic fever affecting humans, and yet a licensed drug against the virus (CCHFV) is still not available. While several studies have suggested the efficacy of ribavirin against CCHFV, current literature remains inconclusive. In this study, we have utilised next‐generation sequencing to investigate the mutagenic effect of ribavirin on the CCHFV genome during clinical disease. Samples collected from CCHF patients receiving ribavirin treatment or supportive care only at Sivas Cumhuriyet University Hospital, Turkey, were analysed. By comparing the frequency of mutations in each group, we found little evidence of an overall mutagenic effect. This suggests that ribavirin, administered at the acute stages of CCHFV infection (at the World Health Organization‐recommended dose) is unable to induce lethal mutagenesis that would cause an extinction event in the CCHFV population and reduce viremia.
A new axisymmetrical membrane element for anisotropic, finite strain analysis of arteries

To explore the mechanical non-linear behaviour of anisotropic arterial walls on a computational basis, the formulation of a continuum based elastic potential is a major task and challenge to the analyst. The present communication is concerned with the constitutive modelling and numerical analysis of vascular segments covering finite strains. Special attention is paid to a two term potential that constitutes an essential foundation for accurate simulation within the entire strain domain. Axisymmetrical membrane elements are assembled to match the geometry of blood vessels. Numerical results confirm the theoretical approach by referring to experimental data of different rat arteries.
On the double cantilever beam technique for studying crack propagation

The problem of a semi‐infinite elastic plate loaded along its straight boundary is pursued to develop an analytical and realistic Double Cantilever Beam Model which accounts for the end deflections associated with deformation beyond the crack tip. Deformation of the uncracked portion allows each arm to rotate about the built‐in end, producing an end deflection in addition to those caused by bending and shear. Comparisons with the predictions of existing models show reasonable agreement, but comparisons with some available experimental results reveal that the theoretical end deflection is underestimated. This was shown not to be unreasonable when the limitations of the theory were considered.
Partial validation of a TaqMan quantitative polymerase chain reaction for the detection of the three genotypes of Infectious spleen and kidney necrosis virus

Megalocytiviruses (MCVs) are double-stranded DNA viruses known to infect important freshwater and marine fish species in the aquaculture, food, and ornamental fish industries worldwide. Infectious spleen and kidney necrosis virus (ISKNV) is the type species within the genus Megalocytivirus that causes red seabream iridoviral disease (RSIVD) which is a reportable disease to the World Animal Health Organization (WOAH). To better control the transboundary spread of this virus and support WOAH reporting requirements, we developed and partially validated a TaqMan real-time qPCR assay (ISKNV104R) to detect all three genotypes of ISKNV, including the two genotypes that cause RSIVD. Parameters averaged across 48 experiments used a 10-fold dilution series of linearized plasmid DNA (107–101 copies), carrying a fragment of the three-spot gourami iridovirus (TSGIV) hypothetical protein revealed that the assay was linear over 7 orders of magnitude (107–101), a mean efficiency of 99.97 ± 2.92%, a mean correlation coefficient of 1.000 ± 0.001, and a limit of detection (analytical sensitivity) of ≤10 copies of TSGIV DNA. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for the ISKNV104R qPCR assay was evaluated and compared to other published assays using a panel of 397 samples from 21 source populations with different prevalence of ISKNV infection (0–100%). The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for the ISKNV104R qPCR assay was 91.99% (87.28–95.6; 95% CI) and 89.8% (83.53–94.84). The latent class analysis showed that the ISKNV104R qPCR assay had similar diagnostic sensitivities and specificities with overlapping confidence limits compared to a second TaqMan qPCR assay and a SYBR green assay. This newly developed TaqMan assay represents a partially validated qPCR assay for the detection of the three genotypes of the species ISKNV. The ISKNV104R qPCR assay once fully validated, will serve as an improved diagnostic tool that can be used for ISKNV surveillance efforts and diagnosis in subclinical fish to prevent further spread of MCVs throughout the aquaculture and ornamental fish industries.
Rotation number and one-parameter families of circle diffeomorphisms

Abstract We consider one-parameter families of circle diffeomorphisms, f1(x) = f(x) + t(t ∈ S1), where f: S1 is a Cr-diffeomorphism (r≥3). We show that, for Lebesgue almost every t ∈ S1 the rotation number of f1, is either a rational number or an irrational number of Roth type. In the former case, f1, has periodic orbits and, in the latter case, f1, is Cr − 2-conjugate to an irrational rigid rotation from well-known theorems of Herman and Yoccoz.
Two‐day disturbances in the equatorial western Pacific

From November 1992 to February 1993, westward‐propagating disturbances with scales of 1000‐1500 km frequented the equatorial western Pacific. They propagated at about 16 m s−1 and thier passage was accompanied by a two‐day oscillation in high cloudiness. Their convection was most intense when the lower troposphere was cool and the level of free convection was relatively low. The disturbances propagated westward at about 18 m s−1 faster than the lower tropospheric flow. This rapid propagation may have been the result of a coupling between the disturbance's convection and the 20 m s−1 vertical mode. The signal of this mode was apparent in vertical profiles of temperature and wind and the most intense convection began when the mode dynamically cooled the lower troposphere, lowering the level of free convection.
Suicidal Ideation, Planning, and Attempts Among new Royal Canadian Mounted Police Cadets

Background Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) report diverse occupational stressors and repeated exposures to potentially psychologically traumatic events, which may increase the odds of screening positive for a mental disorder, and increase the risk of death by suicide. The current study was designed to provide prevalence information regarding suicidal behaviours (i.e., ideation, planning, attempts) and assess for sociodemographic differences among cadets at the start of the RCMP Cadet Training Program (CTP). Method Cadets (n = 736, 74.0% male) were administered the structured Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview by a mental health clinician or a supervised clinical psychologist trainee. The interview includes an assessment of past month suicidal ideation, planning, attempts and lifetime suicide attempts. Results Within 1 month of starting the CTP, a small percentage of cadets reported past month suicidal ideation (1.6%) and no cadets reported any suicidal planning (0%) or attempts (0%). Lifetime suicide attempts were reported by (1.5%) of cadets. Conclusions The current results provide the first information describing the prevalence of suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts among RCMP cadets starting the CTP. The estimates of suicidal behaviours appear lower than the general population and lower than reports from serving RCMP. Higher prevalence estimates of suicidal behaviours reported by serving RCMP, relative to lower estimates among cadets starting the CTP in the current study, may be related to age, cumulative experiences or protracted exposures to operational and organizational stressors, rather than insufficient screening of recruits.
An Analysis of the Distribution of PSMA PET/CT–Positive Lymph Nodes and Their Coverage by Different Elective Nodal Radiation Volumes in Postoperative Prostate Cancer Patients

Visual Abstract Salvage elective nodal radiotherapy (ENRT) is a treatment option for patients with biochemically persistent or recurrent prostate cancer who have lymph node metastases (LNs) after prostatectomy. Possible ENRT templates were proposed by the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG; 2009), the PIVOTAL trialists (2015), and the NRG Oncology Group (2021). The goal of this study was to analyze the distribution of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET/CT–positive LNs and to compare the templates regarding their LN coverage. Methods: We analyzed the PSMA PET/CT scans of 105 patients with PET-positive LNs treated with salvage ENRT from 2014 to 2019. All LNs were mapped in an exemplary dataset, classified by region, and assessed with regard to their potential coverage by the 3 ENRT templates. The primary endpoint was the number of missed LNs. The secondary endpoint was the number of patients with full coverage. To compare the templates, a t test and McNemar test were used. Results: Three hundred thirty-five LNs were contoured (3.19 per patient; 95% CI, 2.43–3.95). Most frequently, LNs were seen in the internal iliac (n = 94, 28.1%), external iliac (n = 60, 17.9%), periaortic (n = 58, 17.3%), common iliac (n = 55, 16.4%), perirectal (n = 26, 7.8%), and presacral (n = 19, 5.7%) regions. The NRG template missed fewer LNs per patient (1.01, 31.7%) than the RTOG (1.28, 40.1%, P < 0.001) and PIVOTAL templates (1.19, 37.3%, P = 0.003). No difference was observed in the number of patients with full coverage of all LNs: 52 (49.5%) with the NRG template versus 50 (47.6%) with the RTOG (P = 0.625) and 49 (46.7%) with the PIVOTAL template (P = 0.250). Conclusion: The NRG template showed better coverage than the RTOG and PIVOTAL templates. Nevertheless, in this cohort, it would have missed almost one third of all contoured LNs and would have resulted in incomplete coverage in half the patients. This result underlines the importance of advanced imaging, such as PSMA PET/CT scans, before salvage ENRT and shows the need for further individualization of ENRT fields.
The halo and magnetic field of the Coma cluster of galaxies

New observations of the radio emission from the Coma cluster of galaxies have revealed the most detailed image of an intergalactic halo yet seen in a cluster of galaxies. The centroid of the halo emission is significantly displaced from that of the X-ray emission. The Faraday rotation of polarized emission from background radio sources has been measured. There is a significant contribution to the rotation measure (RM) of sources seen through the cluster. The excess RM, when combined with the X-ray data, has allowed direct measurement of the magnetic-field strength, at about 2 microG, providing an independent check of the widely used assumption of equipartition between the energy in relativistic particles and that in the magnetic field. The observations also allow an estimate of the degree of tangling of the cluster magnetic field. The magnetic field reversals seem to occur on a scale size of 13-40 kpc. The extent of the halo emission and the degree of field tangling indicate that the radio halo source must be sustained by particle reacceleration in the intracluster medium. 50 refs.