bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age, growth and maturity of frigate tuna (Auxis thazard Lacepède, 1800) in the Southeastern Brazilian coast
Authors: Vieira Juliana M.S. , Costa Paulo A.S. , Braga Adriana C. , São-Clemente Ricardo R.B. , Ferreira Carlos E.L. , Silva Jodir P.
Published: August 2022

Age, growth and maturity of frigate tuna (Auxis thazard) were studied for the first time in Southeast Brazil. A total of 650 fish (265–494 mm Fork Length) were sampled from beach-seine landings between March 2018 and February 2019. Sectioned fin spines from 548 specimens were processed and age was determined by counting and measuring of increments. Growth parameters were fitted to length-at-age data using the von Bertalanffy growth function and were compared to the literature using the growth performance index (Phi). Macro and microscopic characterization of gonads and physiological indexes were used for the analysis of the reproductive cycle. The length distribution did not differ by sex. Assigned ages were between 0+ and 4 years, with annual increments formed during winter. Coefficient of variation between readings was 11%. Growth differed by sex, and the von Bertalanffy growth parameters were L∞ = 471 mm; k = 0.47 year−1; and t0 = –1.46 year−1 for females; L∞ = 498 mm; k = 0.35 year−1; and t0 = –2.01 year−1 for males. Phi was 5.0 for both sexes. Estimated growth rate is among the lowest recorded for the species, possibly related to the method used for age and growth assessment. Gonadosomatic index peaked in December, associated with the upwelling of the South Atlantic Central Waters, at a temperature of approximately 16 °C. Spawning activity in colder waters has never been reported for this species and may be influenced by a richer habitat caused by the intrusion of more nutritive rich waters during spring-summer, which allows larval development. Length-at-first-maturity (L50) was 345.4 mm for females and 329.8 mm for males.
Lactic acid bacteria as probiotics in sustainable development of aquaculture
Authors: Chizhayeva Anna , Amangeldi Alma , Oleinikova Yelena , Alybaeva Aigul , Sadanov Amankeldy
Published: August 2022

Industrial aquaculture is a dynamic area capable of solving problems of healthy nutrition and food security. Increase of organic pollution, number of opportunistic microorganisms in the aquatic environment of fish farms and the global contamination of feed by mycotoxigenic fungi are serious problems of industrial fish cultivation. The results are weakening of the general condition of fish, immunosuppression, the occurrence of various diseases complicated by drug resistance, the accumulation of antibiotics and chemical compounds in tissues. Probiotics can be an alternative to antibiotics. The use of probiotics is also one of the biological methods for maintaining and restoring the normal physiological state of fish and increasing their productivity. The aim of this review is the scientific justification of the use of lactic acid bacteria as the safest microorganisms in the development of probiotics for aquaculture. The review presented provides criteria for selecting candidate strains for effective probiotics development. The advantages of lactic acid bacteria for the prevention or control of infectious diseases in cultured fish are considered. Lactic acid bacteria are representatives of the fish microbiota, they have antagonistic activity against opportunistic pathogens, fungi and viruses that cause microbiological spoilage of feed, pollute water bodies, and cause diseases of aquatic animals. The review provides information on various researches in which lactic acid bacteria or products derived from them have been used to assess their potential in aquaculture. Numerous scientific studies prove the value of this vast group of microorganisms for the prevention and treatment of fish diseases, for increasing the resistance of aquatic animals to infectious diseases and various stresses, for improving their survival and productivity, and for improving water sanitation in fish reservoirs. Increased use of effective probiotic lactic acid bacteria in aquaculture can make the fish sector safer, more productive and friendly to the environment and human well-being, and will contribute to the sustainable development of aquaculture.
Spider web approach hardness validation of peak aged Al6061/SiC/h-BN composite and related mechanical characterization
Authors: Y.M. Shivaprakash , B.M. Gurumurthy , Hiremath Pavan , Sharma Sathyashankara , B.S. Sowrabh
Published: August 2022

Current work focusses on stir cast Al6061 based composites with SiC (3, 6, 9 wt.%) and h-BN (1, 2, 3 wt.%) as reinforcements and subjected to heat treatments followed by mechanical characterization. Quality level of composites is confirmed from reinforcement distribution and hardness uniformity in castings after homogenization. The castings were further subjected to peak aging and hardness data is refined for accuracy using Spider web approach. Due to lack in the reinforcement spreadout, especially higher volume quantity of h-BN, the peak hardness of Al6061/9 wt.% SiC/3 wt.% h-BN as estimated by Spider web approach is less than the recorded value. The Minitab result is in line with that of experimentally supported Spider web approach. Due to the result of nonuniform dispersivity, beyond the optimum quantity of reinforcement content, fracture surface resulted coarse mirror facets with lower tensile and wear properties. 2 wt.% h-BN quantity with 6 wt.% SiC in the composite is regarded as the optimum quantity of reinforcement, resulted excellent tensile strength with least ductility among the family and is at par with hardness variation trend. It is found that optimum quantity of solid lubricant h-BN in the composite resulted excellent wear resistance even at higher normal loads.
The Normal Velocity of the Population Front in the “Predator–Prey” Model
Authors: Dats Evgeniy , Minaev Sergey , Gubernov Vladimir , Okajima Junnosuke
Published: August 2022

The propagation of one and two-dimensional waves of populations are numerically investigated in the framework of the “predator-prey” model with the Arditi - Ginzburg trophic function. The propagation of prey and predator population waves and the propagation of co-existing populations’ waves are considered. The simulations demonstrate that even in the case of an unstable quasi-equilibrium state of the system, which is established behind the front of a traveling wave, the propagation velocity of the joint population wave is a well-defined function. The calculated average propagation velocity of a cellular non-stationary wave front is determined uniquely for a given set of problem parameters. The estimations of the wave propagation velocity are obtained for both the case of a plane and cellular wave fronts of populations. The structure and velocity of outward propagating circular cellular wave are investigated to clarify the local curvature and scaling effects on the wave dynamics.
Endocavitary Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound
Authors: Vollert Kurt , Clevert Dirk Andre , Kleffel Timm
Published: August 2022

Background Ultrasound is one of the most important imaging methods in the daily routine. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has put ultrasound on equal footing with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in many areas. Although ultrasound contrast agents are commonly administered intravenously, endocavitary application as performed in the case of iodine-containing contrast agents is also possible.

Method Based on the current literature, this overview provides information regarding possible endocavitary applications of ultrasound contrast agents as they are used and could be used in the daily routine in radiology. Examples are provided to illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of clinical use.

Results and Conclusion Endocavitary CEUS broadens the spectrum of possible ultrasound applications and can be safely used for patient diagnosis and treatment. The method can be safely used for diagnosis and patient management, particularly in patients in whom examinations including exposure to radiation with iodine-containing contrast agents may be contraindicated and who have limited mobility due to disease severity.

Key points: 

Citation Format
Two Years of Cytology and HPV Co-Testing in Germany: Initial Experience
Authors: Xhaja Arjola , Ahr André , Zeiser Ilona , Ikenberg Hans
Published: August 2022

Introduction On 1 January 2020 the screening programme for the prevention of cervical cancer in women from the age of 35 years of the Statutory Health Insurance (GKV) in Germany
changed from an annual cytology examination to cytological and HPV co-testing carried out every three years. A large standard diagnostics laboratory has been using liquid-based cytology
(LBC) with computer-assisted screening (CAS) since 1 January 2020 to assess the samples.

Patients and Methods The cytological and HPV results for all cases examined with co-testing from 01.01.2020 to 31.12.2021 (n = 395759) are reported and the cytology results obtained
using co-testing are compared with the results obtained using only conventional primary cytology screening from the two previous years (n = 588192). Cytology tests were carried out using LBC
and computer-assisted screening. A DNA PCR test which can identify 14 types of HPV was used for HPV testing. The cytology results are reported using the Munich Nomenclature III, which is
mandatory in Germany, and converted to The Bethesda System (TBS). Problems occurring during the implementation phase are described here.

Results A total of 983951 cases who had primary screening between 01.01.2018 and 31.12.2021 were analysed. The HR HPV-positive rate with co-testing for all age groups was 6.41%. Of
this group, 16.31% were positive for HPV-16, 4.43% for HPV-18, and 71.40% had one or more of the other 12 HR HPV types. Several different HPV types were identified in 7.86% of cases. The
HPV-positive rate for cases with unremarkable cytological findings was 4.03%. 0.46% of tests were technically invalid. The results of primary cytology screening for 2020/21 (LBC) were: Pap 0
(TBS: unsatisfactory) 0.09%, Pap I and Pap II-a (NILM) 96.82%, Pap II-p/g (~ASC-US/AGC) 1.23%, Pap III-p/g (~ASC-H/AGC) 0.19%, Pap III D1 (LSIL) 1.08%, Pap III D2 (HSIL) 0.31%, Pap IVa/b-p/g
(HSIL/AIS) 0.18%, and Pap V-p/g (carcinoma) 0.01%. The rates for 2018/19 (conventional cytology without routine testing for HPV) were significantly higher for Pap II-p/g (1.64%) and
significantly lower for Pap III-p/g (0.13%), Pap III D1 (0.45%), Pap III D2 (0.10%) and Pap IVa/b-p/g (0.05%).

Conclusion Evaluation of the data for the two first years of cytology and HPV co-testing from a standard diagnostics laboratory found low HR HPV-positive rates. As regards the
cytology tests, the Pap II-p/g rate was significantly lower and the ≥ Pap III rate was significantly higher compared to the two previous years. This points to a probable higher sensitivity
and specificity of the new method.
Advanced Glycation End Products: Do They Impair Bone Health in
Diabetes?
Authors: Papachristou Stella , Rizzo Manfredi , Papanas Nikolaos
Published: August 2022

In diabetes mellitus (DM), there is increased formation and accumulation of
advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which represent a heterogeneous class of
molecules produced by non-enzymatic glycation of various molecules during
long-term hyperglycaemia. Several studies have examined the role of AGEs in DM
complications. Accumulating evidence suggests that AGEs affect bone metabolism.
New knowledge indicates that they may play a role in bone disease among DM
subjects. More data are now needed to clarify their role and to explore new
AGEs-based therapeutic options for optimal bone health in DM.
Endoscopic Endonasal Approach to the Craniovertebral Junction Lesions: A Case Series of 18 Patients
Authors: Alijani Babak , Namin Ahmad K. , Emamhadi Mohammadreza , Chabok Shahrokh Y. , Behzadnia Hamid , Haghani Dogahe Mohammad
Published: August 2022

Introduction Odontoid pathologies constitute a special category because they may lead to instability. Instability is defined by abnormal spinal alignment under physiologic conditions (loads) such as standing, walking, bending, or lifting. Since instability poses a risk of cord damage, surgical interventions may be required for durable long-term stabilization. This study demonstrates operative technique and results of endoscopic endonasal approach to the odontoid pathologies.

Methods We conducted a retrospective study involving 18 patients who underwent endoscopic endonasal odontoidectomy (EEO) due to craniovertebral pathologies. Demographic data, clinical features of the patients, risk factors, and intraoperative and postoperative complications were reported in this series.

Results Satisfactory outcomes achieved in 16 patients based on comparing the modified Rankin scale before and after the surgery (p = 0.0001). The mean duration for EEO was 232.6 ± 18.8 minutes. The mean blood loss during surgery was 386.67 ± 153.04 mL. The mean duration of hospital stay was 7 days. All patients were extubated within a few hours after surgery. Despite of successful anterior decompression in the aforementioned cases, intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage, postoperative meningitis, and pulmonary thromboembolism occurred as complications. However, two intraoperative CSF leakages were managed by direct dural repair and fat graft; two patients died due to postoperative meningitis and pulmonary thromboembolism at 7 and 4 days after the second surgery.

Conclusion In conclusion, EEO can be effectively used for anterior decompression of the odontoid pathologies, despite the risk of complications.
Clinical Characteristics and Long-Term Outcomes following Surgery Combined with Adjuvant Radiotherapy for Patients with Frontal Sinus Malignancies
Authors: Wang Ze-Kun , Yi Jun-Lin , Zhang Ye , Wu Run-Ye , Zhang Jiang-Hu , Wang Jing-Bo , Chen Xue-Song , Wang Kai , Qu Yuan , Huang Xiao-Dong , Gao Li , Xu Guo-Zhen , Luo Jing-Wei
Published: August 2022

Objectives Primary frontal sinus malignancies (FSMs) are the rarest sinonasal cancers. This study aimed to determine clinicopathologic characteristics of primary FSMs and provide long-term survival outcomes.

Design This study is a retrospective review.

Setting The study was conducted at a tertiary medical center.

Participants Patients who participated in this study were diagnosed with primary FSMs.

Main Outcome Measures Median survival time is the primary outcome measure of this study.

Results In this series, the median age was 48 years (30–53 years) and all patients were male. There were five cases with squamous cell carcinoma and one with osteosarcoma. All cases presented with locally advanced disease without regional lymphatic metastasis, including five cases of stage III and one case of stage II. The two most common pathways of tumor invasion were as follows: local tumor broke posteriorly through bone wall and invaded dura mater, followed by frontal lobe; local tumor infiltrated downward through the floor of frontal sinus into ethmoid sinus, thereafter invaded laterally orbit and orbital contents. All patients received surgery followed by postoperative radiotherapy at the total doses of 50 to 75.95 Gy. Among them, only one patient underwent R0 resection, the rest of patients underwent R1/R2 resection. With a median survival time of 56 months (32–76 months), two patients receiving R1/R2 resection developed treatment failure and died within 5 years, including one case with local recurrence and one with local recurrence, thereafter distant metastasis.

Conclusion The majority of FSMs presented with peripherally invasive progression lesions which led to a high ratio of R1/R2 resection. Surgery combined with postoperative radiotherapy might result in satisfactory efficacy.
Troponoid Compounds as Therapeutic Agents and as Targets and Templates for Chemical Synthesis
Authors: Banwell Martin G. , Tan Shen , Chen Qi , Lan Ping
Published: August 2022

The renewed interest in troponoid compounds as potential therapeutic agents and the ongoing discovery of new, naturally occurring and biologically active members of the class has resulted in an attendant focus on developing and deploying methods for their synthesis. This account highlights some of the significant recent developments in the area of troponoid chemistry that serve to contextualize our group’s longstanding and ongoing interest in the synthesis of such compounds through the cyclopropane-mediated ring-expansion of cyclohexanoid and benzenoid compounds. The various means by which such conversions can be accomplished and their application to the synthesis of both natural and non-natural troponoids are detailed.

1 Introduction

2 Naturally Occurring Troponoid Compounds and Their Biogenesis

3 Medicinal Chemistry Aspects of Troponoid Compounds

4 Troponoids in Materials Science

5 Troponoids as Scaffolds in Chemical Synthesis

6 An Overview of the Methods Available for Preparing Troponoids

7 Cyclopropane-Mediated Ring-Expansion Reactions Leading to Troponoids

8 Conclusions
Levels, Trends, and Risk Factors for Stillbirths in the United States: 2000–2017
Authors: Wolfson Carrie , Qian Jiage , Creanga Andreea A.
Published: August 2022

Objective This study documents 2000 to 2017 trends in stillbirth rates and changes in associations between known maternal and fetal risk factors and stillbirths for 2000 to 2002 versus 2015 to 2017 in the United States.

Study Design We conducted a retrospective, population-based analysis of stillbirths and live-births using national vital statistics data. We calculated annual stillbirth rates overall and by gestational age; and examined stillbirth rates by maternal age, race-ethnicity, and state for 2000 to 2002 versus 2015 to 2017. We used Chi-squared tests to examine associations between maternal and fetal risk factors separately for early (20–27 weeks) and late (28+ weeks) stillbirths compared with live-births for 2000 to 2002 versus 2015 to 2017.

Results Stillbirth rates declined by 7.5% (p < 0.001) during 2000 to 2006 but remained flat at approximately 6 stillbirths per 1,000 births thereafter. Throughout 2000 to 2017, there were significant improvements in stillbirth rates at 39+ weeks nationally (p < 0.001), but rates varied greatly between and within states. Sociodemographic (advanced maternal age, Black race, low education, unmarried status, and rural residence), obstetric, and other medical factors (>3 births, use of infertility treatment, maternal obesity, diabetes, chronic hypertension, eclampsia, no prenatal care, and tobacco use) were significantly more prevalent in women with late than early stillbirths or live births. Notably, late and total stillbirth rates were approximately 30% higher for women >35 years than for women <35 years and twice as high for non-Hispanic Black than non-Hispanic White women; American Indian/Alaska Native women represented the only racial-ethnic group with significantly higher late stillbirth rates in 2015 to 2017 than in 2000 to 2002. Pregnancy and fetal factors (multiple pregnancy, male fetus, and breech presentation) were more prevalent in women with early than late stillbirths or live births.

Conclusion U.S. stillbirth rates have plateaued since 2006. There are persistent differential risk profiles for early versus late stillbirths which can inform stillbirth prevention strategies (e.g., close observation of women with risk factors for stillbirth) and new research into the causes of stillbirths by gestational age.

Key Points
An Electronic Medical Record Intervention to Increase Early Screening Rates for Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Jagannatham Shobha , Lozano Melissa , Brustman Lois
Published: August 2022

Objectives Our objective was to implement an electronic medical record reminder to perform the early gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) screening test and to evaluate if this intervention increased screening rates.

Study Design We performed a retrospective chart review of all deliveries at Mount Sinai West in January 2020 to determine the number of patients that met criteria for and actually underwent early GDM screening. A total of 314 patients had complete charts with pregnancy data. The following American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)-defined risk factors were collected: body mass index greater than 25 (Asians greater than 23), history of GDM, history of macrosomia, hypertension (systolic >140 or diastolic >90), polycystic ovarian syndrome, hemoglobin A1c above 5.7, cardiovascular disease, and family history of diabetes. We used this data to advocate for and design an electronic medical record-based intervention to remind obstetric providers to complete the early glucose challenge test screening for eligible patients at the first prenatal visit.

Results Our investigation confirms there is a low adherence rate of 12% at our facility to ACOG's updated early GDM screening guidelines (12 out of 97 patients). Furthermore, nearly one-fifth (16 out of 85) of eligible patients who did not receive screening were eventually diagnosed with GDM by screening at 24 to 28 weeks. After implementing an electronic medical record reminder at the initial prenatal visit, screening rates more than doubled to 28% (33 out of 115 eligible patients). The most common diabetic risk factors were high-risk ethnic background, current hypertension, family history of diabetes, history of polycystic ovarian syndrome, and body mass index of 40 or greater.

Conclusion Our data suggests that obstetricians could be missing an opportunity to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes by diagnosing GDM earlier in pregnancy, as recommended by ACOG. The adoption of an electronic medical record reminder seems to improve the rate of indicated early GDM screening.

Key Points
Wideband Tympanometry Findings in Healthy Neonates
Authors: Aithal Sreedevi , Aithal Venkatesh , Kei Joseph , Wilson Matthew
Published: August 2022

Abstract Objectives The objective of the present study was to describe pressurized wideband absorbance at tympanometric peak pressure (WBATPP) and 0 daPa (WBA0) in healthy Caucasian neonates. Subjects A total of 249 ears
from 249 neonates who passed a test battery of 1,000-Hz tympanometry, distortion product otoacoustic emissions and automated auditory brainstem response were included in the study. Method WBATPP and WBA0 were averaged in one-third octave frequencies from
0.25 to 8 kHz. Data were statistically analyzed for effects of frequency, ear, and gender. Results Normative WBATPP and WBA0 data obtained from healthy neonates are presented. There was no significant difference between WBATPP and WBA0
at all frequencies. Both WBATPP and WBA0 demonstrated a multipeaked pattern with maxima of 0.80 and 0.72 at 1.25 to 1.5 and 6 kHz, respectively, and two minima of 0.45 and 0.49 at 0.4 to 0.5 and 4 kHz, respectively. The effects of ear and gender were not
significant for both WBA measures. Conclusion Pressurized WBATPP and WBA0 data were provided for healthy Caucasian neonates. They will be useful for the assessment of middle ear function and assist in differentiating between conductive and sensorineural
hearing losses in neonates.
Experiences and Outcomes in Olfactory Neuroblastoma Over A Decade at a Tertiary Cancer Center
Authors: Korra Himabindu , Gandi Joseph Benjamin , Nanuvala Prathyusha , Ardha Aarathi
Published: August 2022

Background Olfactory neuroblastoma is a rare epithelial malignancy arising from the odorant receptors in the nasal mucosa or along the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone. Clinical presentation includes nasal stuffiness, local pain, epistaxis, anosmia, visual impairment, proptosis, headache, and seizures. Radiologic imaging with CT or MRI, an ophthalmic evaluation, and histopathologic confirmation with immunohistochemistry are parts of the initial diagnostic workup. Although surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation have an equally important role in the management, earlier stages may preferably be treated with surgery or radiotherapy and the later stages with a multimodality approach.

Materials and Methods We conducted a retrospective review of 13 patients diagnosed with olfactory neuroblastoma, registered at Mehdi Nawaz Jung Regional Cancer Center over a decade (2010–2019). We analyzed the age and sex distribution, performance status at presentation, clinical symptomatology, and the Kadish stage. In addition, the therapeutic aspects of patients were studied.

Results The most common presentation noted was nasal stuffiness, followed by epistaxis and proptosis. The majority of patients had good performance status at presentation. Ten patients presented with a Kadish stage C, while the remaining patients presented with Kadish stage B. Cervical nodal metastasis was seen in three patients, four patients received multimodality treatment with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery, two patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radiation, two patients received only surgery, and one patient received surgery followed by adjuvant radiation. Conformal radiation techniques were used to deliver doses as high as 50 to 66 Gy in 2 Gy per fraction. Two patients presented with distant metastasis during follow-up, one with bone metastasis, and the other with retroperitoneal nodal metastasis; they received palliative chemotherapy and conformal radiation to the primary site.

Conclusion This study concludes that neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radiation gives the best outcomes. It has been observed that in multi-modality treatment, radiotherapy played a significant role in improving overall survival and better outcomes. Multidisciplinary discussions provide a better sequencing of management.
Growing Teratoma Syndrome—A Clinicoradiological Series
Authors: Prineethi Sheena , Irodi Aparna , Eapen Anu , Milton Sharon , Joel Anjana
Published: August 2022

Context Growing teratoma syndrome (GTS) is a rare entity seen following chemotherapy for metastatic nonseminomatous germ cell tumors, characterized by increase in size of the metastatic deposits, with normal serum tumor markers.

Aims In this article, we aim to describe the various clinicoradiological presentations of GTS treated at our center.

Design All patients who satisfied the GTS criteria from 2001 to 2019 were included. Characteristic imaging appearances along with sites of primary lesion and metastatic disease, stage and risk stratification at diagnosis, details of chemotherapy, details of surgical treatment and histopathology, levels of tumor markers, serum β-human chorionic gonadotropin, lactate dehydrogenase, and alpha fetoprotein levels at baseline and at the end of all chemotherapy were analyzed.

Results The significant radiological findings observed were an increase in the fat and cystic components and appearance of coarse calcifications within the lesions. Majority of the cases were male patients (87.5%) with testicular primaries and GTS transformation in nodal metastases being the most common occurrence (75%). All eight cases (100%) showed an increase in size and cystic component, whereas four out of eight cases (50%) had presence of internal septations and internal calcification.

Conclusion Early recognition of this entity and clinical decision making through serial radiological imaging are of utmost importance as these growing deposits are resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, with complete surgical excision being the only curative and definitive treatment option.
Complete Colonic Duplication and Perineal Fistula: Transanal Mucosectomy of the Ectopic Rectum
Authors: Duess Johannes W. , Zimmermann Peter , Hirsch Franz W. , Graefe Daniel , Lacher Martin , Gosemann Jan-Hendrik
Published: August 2022

Background Colonic duplication may present in different anatomic variants. The surgical approach towards these anomalies can be challenging and has implications for subsequent future continence.

Case Description We report on a 1-year-old girl with congenital heart defect and pacemaker who was referred to us with an anorectal malformation. The patient was stooling from both an anus and a perineal fistula. Examination under anesthesia revealed an orthotopic and age-appropriate sized anus with surrounding sphincter and a second rectal lumen ending as a perineal fistula. A computed tomography and contrast enema indicated colonic duplication. Exploratory laparotomy showed a duplicated terminal ileum leading to two ceca and appendices, which joined to a duplicated colon with a septum and common mesentery. At the rectosigmoid junction, one part of the duplication ended as a perineal fistula, the second one led to the (orthotope) anus. The common colonic wall was divided using a stapler. The rectal duplication leading to the perineal fistula was not completely resected but treated by mucosectomy only (Soave plane) leaving its muscular cuff in place. Finally, an ileostomy was created. The postoperative course was uneventful. A contrast enema prior to ostomy takedown demonstrated a well-configurated colon and rectum without stenosis or impaction. The girl is currently continent with a complete resolution of her constipation.

Conclusion In cases of complete colonic duplication division of the common wall is simple and safe. Mucosectomy of the ectopic rectum limits pelvic dissection and preserves the entire muscular wall of the duplicated orthotope rectum.
Appropriate Method of TIBC Estimation in Reference to Serum Transferrin Levels
Authors: Mahant Hardik , Jain Shilpa , Patel Arpita , Lapani Bhumi
Published: August 2022

Background The currently available various methods of estimation of total iron binding capacity (TIBC) show marked variation in reference range. Although serum transferrin (TF) level is a sensitive indicator of iron status, its measurement requires immunoassay equipment which may not be available in many routine biochemistry laboratories. So, this study was planned to find the most appropriate method to estimate TIBC.

Objectives This study aimed to compare different methods of TIBC estimation and to corelate the TIBC values obtained by different methods with serum TF concentration.

Material and Methods This analytical cross-sectional study was performed in the clinical chemistry laboratory of the Biochemistry Department of Medical College Baroda & SSG Hospital, Vadodara, Gujarat, on 250 leftover serum samples destined to be discarded. In all these samples, serum TIBC was estimated by direct method, indirect method, as well as calculated method (iron + unsaturated iron binding capacity [UIBC]) along with the measurement of serum TF level.

Statistical Analysis Among the different methods, repeated analysis of variance (ANOVA) analysis and Bland–Altman plot were used to find out significance of difference. Correlation coefficients were found between different methods of TIBC estimation and serum TF levels.

Results The means of TIBC by calculated, indirect, and direct methods were 344.51, 342.23, and 378.24 µg/dL, respectively. The mean of serum TF was 295.3 mg/dL. There was statistically significant difference between TIBC by direct and indirect methods and between direct and calculated methods. There was a strong positive correlation between TIBC by direct method and serum TF (r = 0.888, p < 0.0001), but there was moderate correlation between TIBC by indirect method and serum TF (r = 0.748, p < 0.04), and between TIBC by calculated method and serum TF (r = 0.725, p < 0.05).

Conclusion Among different methods of estimation of TIBC, direct method is more reliable in reference to serum TF levels.
Bland Urine Sediment in a Child with Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Kundavaram Rajkumar , Sharma Tanya , Joshi Deepti , Kumar Amber , Malik Shikha , Bhatt Girish C.
Published: August 2022

Tubulointerstitial nephritis (TIN) or acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) is a renal lesion characterized by inflammatory infiltrate limited to the renal interstitium and tubules. Three-fourths of the cases are drug induced, other causes being systemic and autoimmune diseases, and infections. Various drugs have been implicated, the most common being antibiotics such as β-lactams. Cephalosporins causing AIN have been reported uncommonly, particularly in children. Although renal biopsy confirms the diagnosis, urinalysis provides pertinent diagnostic clues against the backdrop of the clinico-laboratory profile. The presence of white blood cells, white cell casts, and red blood cells in urine sediment have been described in literature. However, a relatively normal urinalysis may be present in some cases and may pose a diagnostic challenge. We present a case of ceftriaxone-induced AIN in a child with bland urine sediment at initial presentation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of ceftriaxone-induced AIN in the pediatric age group.
A Rare Case of Colonic Triplication with Associated Imperforate Anus in a Newborn Male
Authors: McKenna Elise , Ho Christina , Badillo Andrea , Villalona Gustavo , Levitt Marc A.
Published: August 2022

We present a case of a newborn male with imperforate anus who was found to have colonic triplication with a high rectovesical fistula. The case is presented with a focus on surgical strategies for the management of this rare malformation.
Graft and Patient Outcomes of Kidney Transplant Tourism: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Altheaby Abdulrahman , Owaidah Kenana , Alotaibi Aljowharah , Salem Rahaf , Algain Rihaf , Alotaibi Areij , Alnasrullah Ahmad , Shaheen Mohammed F. , Tawhari Mohammed , Abdulgadir Mohamad
Published: August 2022

Background The supply-demand mismatch between organ donor and patient waiting for transplant has led to the growth of transplant tourism. This type of transplant is considered unethical and illegal, as it is usually performed in poor environments and carries a higher risk of infectious, vascular, and immunological complications.

Methods In this single-centered retrospective cohort study, we compared patients who underwent transplant tourism to patients who were transplanted locally and followed up in our hospital from January 2015 to December 2018.

Result A total of 254 local transplants and 60 patients from the transplant tourism group were included. Transplant tourism recipients were younger otherwise both groups were similar in gender, body mass index, diabetes, and hypertension. Recipients in the transplant tourism group had a significantly higher rate of delayed graft function (18.3% vs. 6.3%, p 0.005), acute rejection (40% vs. 7.9%, p < 0.001), and higher posttransplant infection in general. With more urological complications and higher graft failure at 3-years' follow-up (11.7% vs. 0.8%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion Transplant tourism is associated with a higher risk of infection and poor graft outcomes. Extra efforts are required to cut down transplant tourism by educating patients about its clinical risk and ethical considerations. In addition, measures to increase the number of deceased donor pool to provide a better alternative options for patients are essential.
Radiological Features of Zollinger–Ellison Syndrome: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Pratap Thara , Jalal Muhammed Jasim Abdul , Jacob Dhanya , Mahadevan Pushpa , Nair Seethal S. , Raja Senthil
Published: August 2022

Hypersecretion of gastrin from duodenal or pancreatic gastrinomas results in a rare clinical entity called Zollinger–Ellison syndrome (ZES). It mostly presents with abdominal pain and diarrhea. ZES may be sporadic or occur in association with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1. Usually, ZES manifests between 20 and 50 years.

We report two cases of patients who presented with abdominal pain, vomiting, watery diarrhea, and significant weight loss.
Comparison of the Sensitivity of 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT with Other Imaging Modalities in Detecting Head and Neck Paraganglioma: Experience from Western India
Authors: Dodamani Manjunath Havalappa , Jaiswal Sanjeet Kumar , Sarathi Vijaya , Marfatia Hetal , D'Cruz Anil , Malhotra Gaurav , Hira Priya , Patil Virendra A. , Lila Anurag R. , Shah Nalini S. , Bandgar Tushar R.
Published: August 2022

Background This study aimed to compare the sensitivity of 68Ga-DOTATATE positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) with other imaging modalities in the detection of head and neck paraganglioma (HNPGL).

Methods The data of consecutive HNPGL patients (n = 34) who had undergone at least 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT and anatomical imaging (contrast-enhanced computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging [CECT/MRI]) were retrospectively reviewed. The diagnosis of HNPGL (the primary tumor) was confirmed either by histopathology (n = 10) or was based on clinical follow-up and correlation of anatomical with functional imaging in whom histopathology was not available (n = 24). The sensitivities of 68Ga DOTATATE PET/CT, 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG-PET/CT), 131I-metaiodobenzylguanidine (131I-MIBG) scintigraphy, and CECT/MRI for primary HNPGL, associated primary pheochromocytoma + sympathetic paraganglioma (PCC + sPGL), and metastatic lesions were analyzed.

Results Thirty-four patients (males: 15) [isolated HNPGL: 26, HNPGL + PCC: 04, HNPGL+ sPGL: 03, HNPGL + PCC + sPGL: 01] harboring 50 primary lesions were included. For total lesions, 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT (99.3%) had significantly higher lesion-wise sensitivity than 18F-FDG PET/CT (81.6%, p = 0.0164), 131I-MIBG (15.2%, p ≤0.0001), CECT (46.3%, p ≤ 0.0001) but similar sensitivity as MRI neck (97%, p = 0.79). On head-to-head comparison (21 primary HNPGL and 39 metastatic lesions), 68Ga DOTATATE PET/CT had significantly higher lesion-wise sensitivities for the detection of metastatic (100 vs. 71.9%, p = 0.04) and total lesions (100 vs. 77.2%, p ≤ 0.0001).

Conclusion 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT was the most sensitive imaging modality for the detection of HNPGL and related lesions with significantly higher lesion-wise sensitivities than those of 18F-FDG PET/CT, 131I-MIBG, and CECT.
Look Out for Fever: Clinical Profile of Dengue in Young Adults in a Tertiary Care Center in North India
Authors: Kaur Gursheen , Kumar Vipin , Puri Sandeep , Tyagi Ruchita , Singh Ashwajit , Kaur Harpreet
Published: August 2022

Background Dengue fever (DF) is a common viral disease, clinical manifestations of which vary from influenza-like illness (DF) to life-threatening dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF)/dengue shock syndrome (DSS). The aim of this article was to study the clinical profile of DF in young adults.

Material and Methods This was an observational study conducted in the department of medicine over a period of 2 years (January 1, 2013—December 31, 2014). Patients aged between 18 and 30 years with serology proven (nonstructural protein 1 [NS1]/dengue immunoglobulin M [IgM]) DF were included in this study. The clinical and laboratory data was recorded and analyzed.

Results Out of 418 cases, the incidence of DF, DHF, and DSS was 87.32, 7.66, and 5.02%, respectively. The most common presentations were fever (99.76%) followed by vomiting (29.43%), pain abdomen (17.94%), myalgias (13.16%), petechial rash (12.92%), and bleeding (10.29%). Dengue NS1 and IgM antibodies were positive in 87.3% and 88.12% of the patients, respectively. Ascites, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, pleural effusion, gall bladder wall edema, and pericardial effusion were present in 8.13, 6.94, 6.70, 5.98, 2.63, and 0.72% of the patients, respectively. Complications included bleeding (10.29%), acute respiratory distress syndrome (1.67%), myocarditis (1.44%), seizures (1.44%), hemarthrosis (0.24%), and encephalopathy (0.24%). The mortality rate was 3.35% with death of 14 patients. Shock, bleeding, and elevated serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase levels predicted adverse outcome.

Conclusion DF can present with a plethora of clinical manifestations in endemic areas. Adverse outcome is more likely if patients have elevated SGOT levels, shock, and bleeding. Continuous seroepidemiological surveillance is essential to control outbreak and minimize morbidity and mortality.
Management Strategies for Benign Biliary Strictures
Authors: Yuan Frank , Saunders Eric D. , McDonald Julian , Balar Aneri , Pence Jacob , Brady Chad K. , Hutchison Marshall , Grammer Robert
Published: August 2022

Biliary stricture is the abnormal narrowing of the biliary ductal system, leading to bile stasis and eventual ductal obstruction and dilatation. Common etiologies of biliary strictures can be broadly classified based on benign or malignant causes. The pathogenesis of benign biliary strictures (BBSs) can be a sequela of several causes, including iatrogenic, inflammatory, ischemic, infectious, and immunologic etiologies. Among the common causes of BBS, an iatrogenic biliary ductal injury sustained during hepatobiliary surgeries is the most frequently reported cause of BBS. Clinically, patients with BBS can present with obstructive biliary symptoms, and urgent biliary decompressive interventions are frequently required to prevent fatal complications. Cross-sectional imaging such as MR cholangiopancreatography enables timely evaluation of the stricture and facilitates therapeutic planning. The primary objective in managing biliary strictures (both benign and malignant) is to achieve permanent ductal patency and minimize the need for repeated interventions. A multidisciplinary team of gastroenterologists, interventional radiologists, and hepatobiliary surgeons is generally involved in caring for patients with BBS. This review provides a summary of clinically available endoscopic, percutaneous, and surgical biliary interventions for the management of patients with BBS.
Importance and limitations of AI ethics in contemporary society
Authors: Hauer Tomas
Published: August 2022

Research into autonomous intelligent systems and AI platforms evolving over time through self-learning from data currently raises a number of thorny ethical and legal issues. Advances in robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning enable AI platforms to autonomously perform activities that have been strictly the domain of humans for centuries, such as writing a book, driving fast cars, or diagnosing serious diseases. The study describes current trends in the approach to ethical problems associated with AI, identifies specific ethical issues through examples, and analyses possible recommendations. The text emphasizes the ethical dimension of the development and implementation of new innovations in robotics and artificial intelligence and their impact on today’s society.
Novel technique opens door to 24/7 solar power generation using thermoelectric devices
Authors: Ikenson Ben
Published: August 2022

Combining heat exchange with space and heat storage in water to advance nighttime power generation goals.
Optical manipulation with metamaterial structures
Authors: Shi Yuzhi , Song Qinghua , Toftul Ivan , Zhu Tongtong , Yu Yefeng , Zhu Weiming , Tsai Din Ping , Kivshar Yuri , Liu Ai Qun
Published: August 2022

Optical tweezers employing forces produced by light underpin important manipulation tools employed in numerous areas of applied and biological physics. Conventional optical tweezers are widely based on refractive optics, and they require excessive auxiliary optical elements to reshape both amplitude and phase, as well as wavevector and angular momentum of light, and thus impose limitations on the overall cost and integration of optical systems. Metamaterials can provide both electric and optically induced magnetic responses in subwavelength optical structures, and they are highly beneficial to achieve unprecedented control of light required for many applications and can open new opportunities for optical manipulation. Here, we review the recent advances in the field of optical manipulation employing the physics and concepts of metamaterials and demonstrate that metamaterial structures could not only help to advance classical operations such as trapping, transporting, and sorting of particles, but they can uncover exotic optical forces such as pulling and lateral forces. In addition, apart from optical manipulation of particles (that can also be called “meta-tweezers”), metamaterials can be powered dynamically by light to realize ingenious “meta-robots.” This review culminates with an outlook discussing future novel opportunities in this recently emerged field ranging from enhanced particle manipulation to meta-robot actuation.
Suppress the aerosol generation from the air turbine handpiece in dental clinics
Authors: Chen Daner , Wang Zheng , Yu Boyang , Tang Xiujuan , Shen Yuehong , Wang Lian-Ping , Wang Yuenan , Yang Hongyu , Deng Weiwei
Published: August 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic imposes a severe challenge to the health care providers and patients in dental clinics as the dental procedures produce abundant airborne materials. Although dental practices use a multi-layered protective procedure to reduce the potential danger from dental aerosols, it is still beneficial to suppress the aerosol generation from the origin as much as possible. Reducing the aerosol generation (especially the droplets of smaller diameters) from the very beginning will ease the burden on all subsequent layers of protection. In this work, we first provide a relatively complete picture of the structure of the spray produced by the air turbine handpiece. We found that the spray consists of two domains: one is the canopy shaped centrifugal zone and the other is a dense ballistic spray core. The droplets from the centrifugal zone are much smaller than those of the spray core and, hence, are more prone to stay in the air. The location of the centrifugal zone also makes it more challenging to be contained by the mouth or rubber dam. To suppress the atomization of the centrifugal zone, we used the food-additive carboxymethylcellulose sodium (CMC-Na) water solutions of different concentrations. The data show that the viscoelastic property of the 0.5 wt. % CMC-Na water solution can effectively suppress the aerosol generation of the centrifugal zone.
Coherent control of transverse modes in semiconductor laser frequency combs via radio-frequency injection
Authors: Dal Cin Sandro , Pilat Florian , Konečný Aleš , Opačak Nikola , Strasser Gottfried , Schwarz Benedikt
Published: August 2022

Increasing the output power of semiconductor laser frequency combs, while maintaining a single-lobe far-field characteristic is of great interest for mid-infrared sensing applications. Broadening of the ridge waveguide represents the most common approach for power scaling, however, the excitement of higher-order transverse modes often limits general applicability. Here, we demonstrate that the coherent control of the longitudinal laser modes enables control over the transverse modes of a quantum cascade laser. Modulating the laser in a frequency range 60 ± 3 MHz above the free-running laser beatnote and applying modulation powers above 25 dBm provides reliable fundamental transverse mode operation, observable as single-lobe, Gaussian-like characteristic in the recorded far-field. Furthermore, coherent comb operation for both fundamental and higher-order transverse mode states is demonstrated.