bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Main Act or Side Show? Model Agreements by International Institutions and Their Reuse in Investment Treaty Texts
Authors: Alschner Wolfgang , Elsig Manfred , Wüthrich Simon
Published: November 2022

Scholars and negotiators often assert that model treaty texts published by international institutions (IIs) shape investment treaty design. This paper empirically investigates the reuse of international institutions’ treaty templates. It tracks the imprint of six international institution templates on the text of negotiated international investment agreements (IIAs) using the Electronic Database of Investment Treaties. We find that the overall impact of international institution models has been low. No international investment agreement in our dataset was copied from an international institution’s model wholesale. On average, annual similarity between model texts and negotiated investment treaties is lower than 40% and significantly lower than the influence of international institutions’ models in the structurally similar international tax treaty regime. However, we do find evidence of an impact of international institutions' language on specific salient clauses. For example, the text of key investment protection clauses in the 1967 Draft Convention of the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development was reproduced in hundreds of international investment agreements and novel clauses on investor responsibility first introduced in the 2006 International Institute for Sustainable Development model have subsequently been copied verbatim into negotiated international investment agreements. Our work concludes by discussing explanations for the comparatively low imprint of international institutions, notes other pathways for these institutions to influence treaty design, and sketches out an agenda for future research.
Digital Sequence Information between Benefit-Sharing and Open Data
Authors: Klünker Irma , Richter Heiko
Published: November 2022

Currently, parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) are negotiating a strategic plan to save biodiversity. One crucial element of an agreement is the question of whether and how digital sequence information (DSI) is subject to access and benefit-sharing from the utilization of genetic resources, one main instrument of the CBD. In the EU, the Open Data Directive (ODD) of 2019 and the recently adopted Data Governance Act (DGA) already cover research data and to some extent DSI. An analysis of the ODD and the DGA throws a spotlight on the legal uncertainty of utilizing DSI and reveals systemic tensions between open data principles and benefit-sharing restrictions on non-commercial use. It also suggests that a future benefit-sharing mechanism for DSI should avoid distinguishing between commercial and non-commercial use upstream, but should instead favor a solution, which imposes benefit-sharing obligations further downstream or outside of the DSI life cycle.
Temperature-associated morphological changes in an African arid-zone ground squirrel
Authors: Warrington Miyako H , Waterman Jane
Published: November 2022

The ecology, life histories, and physiology of many animals are changing in response to human-induced climate change. As the Earth warms, the ability of an animal to thermoregulate becomes ecologically and physiologically significant. Morphological adaptations to warmer temperatures include larger appendages and smaller bodies. We examined morphological features in a ground squirrel, Xerus inauris, living in the arid zones of South Africa, to examine whether squirrels have responded to increases in temperature and changes in seasonal rainfall with morphological modifications over the last 18 years. We found that over time, absolute hindfoot length and proportional hindfoot length increased, while spine length decreased. These changes are consistent with ecogeographical rules (Allen’s rule and Bergmann’s rule) and provide evidence in support of “shape-shifting” in response to climatic warming. Body mass also increased with time; however, these changes were not consistent with Bergmann’s rule, indicating that mass is influenced by other ecological factors (e.g., resource availability). Our study adds to the growing evidence that animal morphologies are changing in response to changing climatic conditions, although it remains to be seen whether these changes are adaptive.
Calibration of the Tully–Fisher relation in the WISE W1 (3.4 μm) and W2 (4.6 μm) bands
Authors: Bell Rianna , Said Khaled , Davis Tamara , Jarrett T H
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we present our calibrations of the Tully–Fisher relation in the mid-infrared W1 (3.4 $\mu$m) and W2 (4.6  $\mu$m) bands, using large samples of 877 galaxies and 876 galaxies from 31 clusters in the W1 and W2 bands, respectively. Using a new, iterative bivariate fitting procedure we performed two corrections, one for the cluster population incompleteness bias and a second morphological type correction. We initially performed calibrations using total absolute magnitudes and H i line widths WF50 derived from the H i global profiles as a measure of rotational velocity. We then used (i) isophotal magnitudes and (ii) average rotational velocities measured along the flat sections of the spatially resolved rotation curves of the galaxies, which were obtained from the empirical conversion between rotational velocity definitions. We determined that the calibrations using total magnitudes and H i line widths had smaller total scatter around the TF relations in the W1 and W2 bands than those using either isophotal magnitudes or spatially resolved rotational velocities. These calibrations are MTot,W1 = (1.77 ± 0.40) − (9.99 ± 0.16)log10(WF50) and MTot,W2 = (2.03 ± 0.40) − (10.12 ± 0.16)log10(WF50), with associated total scatters of σW1 = 0.66 and σW2 = 0.67. We compared these with previous calibrations in the near-infrared J, H, and K bands and the long-wavelength optical I band which used the same two corrections. The differences between calibrations can be explained by considering the different regions and components of spiral galaxies that are traced by the different wavelengths. The codes used for the calibrations of the Tully–Fisher relation are available from https://github.com/RiannaBell/WISE-TF-Calibration.
Search for LBVs in the Local Volume galaxies: study of two stars in NGC 1156
Authors: Solovyeva Y , Vinokurov A , Tikhonov N , Kostenkov A , Atapin K , Sarkisyan A , Moiseev A , Fabrika S , Oparin D , Valeev A
Published: November 2022

We continue the search for luminous blue variables (LBVs) in Local Volume galaxies in order to study their fundamental parameters. In this paper, we report the discovery of two new LBVs in the dwarf irregular galaxy NGC 1156. Both stars exhibit spectral variability simultaneously with strong brightness variations: ΔRc = 0.84 ± 0.23m for J025941.21+251412.2 and ΔRc = 2.59 ± 0.10m for J025941.54+251421.8. The bolometric luminosities of the stars are in the range of LBol ≈ (0.8–1.6) × 106 L⊙. These values are corrected for reddening AV ≈ 0.9 and are given for the distance to the galaxy D = 7.0 ± 0.4 Mpc, which we have measured by the tip of the red-giant branch method. Both stars are above the Humphreys–Davidson limit in the region of relatively low temperatures, Teff ≲ 10 kK, on the temperature–luminosity diagram. J025941.54+251421.8 had a temperature below the hydrogen ionization threshold at maximum brightness, exhibiting behaviour very similar to that of the known LBV R71 during its 2012 outburst. We have estimated the masses of the detected LBVs and studied the properties of their stellar environment. We discuss our results within the framework of both a single star and a binary system evolution scenario for LBVs.
The case for (and challenges surrounding) increased de-enveloping within residential and commercial real property taxation
Authors: Broadway Luke
Published: November 2022

This article offers an appraisal of England and Wales’ real property tax regime, exploring both residential and commercial property taxation from the perspective of enveloping. It will be demonstrated that the residential property regime has been successful in closing many enveloping-based taxation loopholes, whilst the commercial property regime has taken a clear policy-based stance in permitting a limited degree of inheritance tax mitigation. That said, though both regimes are capable of drawing significant yields from direct property taxation, both struggle in obtaining revenue from enveloped holdings. Given the current socio-economic landscape in England and Wales, a de-enveloping policy is desirable. Unfortunately, uncertainty surrounding overseas entity classification—particularly as regards foundations and anstalts—thwarts this preferred de-enveloping aim. This obstacle has not been overcome by the beneficial ownership register recently introduced by the Economic Crime (Transparency and Enforcement) Act 2022. Remedial reforms are therefore proposed.
The First Complete Genome Resource for the Plant-Pathogenic Fungus Exobasidium rhododendri
Authors: Li Yao-Yao , Liu Fei , Wang Qi-Ming
Published: November 2022

Exobasidium rhododendri is a parasite of Rhododendron and also infects apples. A chromosome-level genome of E. rhododendri was assembled using the PacBio and Illumina datasets. The complete genome length is 17.6 Mb, with N50 of 5.45 Mb, and its GC content is 50.08%. The assembly obtained contains four scaffolds, including three nuclear chromosomes and one mitochondrion. There are a total of 6,982 predicted protein-encoding genes containing 406 fungal secretion proteins and 249 candidate effectors in the E. rhododendri genome. This high-quality genome will help understand the pathogenic mechanism of this fungus.
Relationship Between Psychological Distress and Poverty Among Japanese Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sawamoto Naoya , Ishimaru Tomohiro , Mafune Kosuke , Muramatsu Keiji , Nagata Tomohisa , Tateishi Seiichiro , Tsuji Mayumi , Ogami Akira , Fujino Yoshihisa ,   for the CORoNaWork Project
Published: November 2022

Objective

This study aimed to examine the relationship between psychological distress and poverty among Japanese workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

An Internet-based prospective cohort study was conducted. A total of 11,081 individuals who were not experiencing poverty at baseline in December 2020 were included. The exposure variable was psychological distress evaluated using the Kessler 6 scale at baseline. The outcome variable was whether participants were experiencing poverty at the 1-year follow-up, as defined by household financial distress.

Result

Compared with individuals without psychological distress, the adjusted odds ratios of household financial distress among those with mild and severe psychological distress were 2.88 (95% confidence interval, 2.47–3.33, P < 0.001) and 3.19 (95% confidence interval, 2.52–4.04, P < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusions

Workers’ psychological distress is a notable public health concern in the context of poverty.
Pulsatile Pressure Delivery of Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices is Markedly Reduced Relative to Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Rosenbaum Andrew N. , Rossman Timothy L. , Reddy Yogesh N. , Villavicencio Mauricio A. , Stulak John M. , Spencer Philip J. , Kushwaha Sudhir S. , Behfar Atta
Published: November 2022

Although continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (CF-LVADs) provide an augmentation in systemic perfusion, there is a scarcity of in vivo data regarding systemic pulsatility on support. Patients supported on CF-LVAD therapy (n = 71) who underwent combined left/right catheterization ramp study were included. Aortic pulsatility was defined by the pulsatile power index (PPI), which was also calculated in a cohort of high-output heart failure (HOHF, n = 66) and standard HF cohort (n = 44). PPI was drastically lower in CF-LVAD–supported patients with median PPI of 0.006 (interquartile range [IQR], 0.002–0.012) compared with PPI in the HF population at 0.09 (IQR, 0.06–0.17) or HOHF population at 0.25 (IQR, 0.13–0.37; p < 0.0001 among groups). With speed augmentation during ramp, PPI values fell quickly in patients with higher PPI at baseline. PPI correlated poorly with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in all groups. In CF-LVAD patients, there was a stronger correlation with LV dP/dt (r = 0.41; p = 0.001) than LVEF (r = 0.21; p = 0.08; p

int
< 0.001). CF-LVAD support is associated with a dramatic reduction in arterial pulsatility as measured by PPI relative to HOHF and HF cohorts and decreases with speed. Further work is needed to determine the applicability to the next generation of device therapy.
The Relationship Between Neuropsychiatric Diagnoses and Revision Surgery After Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Seitz Allison J. , Attaluri Pradeep K. , Edalatpour Armin , Wood Kasey Leigh , Nkana Zeeda H. , Michelotti Brett F. , Poore Samuel O.
Published: November 2022

Background

A neuropsychiatric diagnosis (ND) has the potential to affect patient satisfaction after breast reconstruction. However, literature regarding the interplay between neuropsychiatric diagnoses and revision operations after reconstruction remains sparse. In this study, we aim to determine whether neuropsychiatric diagnoses result in increased revision operations and healthcare utilization of plastic surgery resources after alloplastic and autologous breast reconstruction.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 200 patients from 2010 to 2019 who underwent postmastectomy alloplastic or autologous breast reconstruction by a single surgeon at our institution. We evaluated for the presence of neuropsychiatric diagnoses, type of neuropsychiatric diagnoses, number of revisions, and number of postreconstruction plastic surgery appointments. Continuous variables were compared using independent samples t tests, and categorical variables were compared using χ2 tests.

Results

Of the 196 patients who met inclusion criteria, the majority underwent at least one revision (65.3%). The presence of an ND did not predict a higher number of revision operations (P = 0.512) nor was the timing of the diagnosis (preoperative vs postoperative) significantly associated with the number of revision procedures (P = 0.156). The patients who had a ND at any point during the reconstructive process had a significantly higher number of plastic surgery appointments and a longer duration of follow-up compared with the patients without any neuropsychiatric diagnoses (P = 0.009 and P = 0.040, respectively). Complications did not impact the number of revision operations (P = 0.780).

Conclusions

Neuropsychiatric diagnoses do not significantly influence the number of revision operations after breast reconstruction. However, neuropsychiatric diagnoses result in increased healthcare utilization of plastic surgery resources that may lead to increased healthcare costs.
Accelerated Angiogenesis of Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Under Negative Pressure Was Associated With the Regulation of Gene Expression Involved in the Proliferation and Migration
Authors: Fukui Michika , Matsuoka Yuki , Taketani Shigeru , Higasa Koichiro , Hihara Masakatsu , Kuro Atsuyuki , Kakudo Natsuko
Published: November 2022

Negative pressure has been used as a preferred therapy for wound healing; however, the mechanisms by which negative pressure promotes tissue restoration remain unclear. In the present study, RNA-sequencing analysis was performed to identify differentially expressed genes in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) exposed to negative pressure. Cell viability and DNA synthesis were examined using the cell counting kit-8 assay and bromodeoxyuridine incorporation, respectively. Cell migration was assessed using tube formation, Transwell, and wound healing assays. Activity of the serine/threonine kinase (AKT) signaling pathway was also examined by measuring the levels of phospho-paxicillin, phospho-focal adhesion kinase (p-FAK), and p-AKT1. The exposure of HUVECs to negative pressure enhanced cell proliferation and DNA synthesis. Negative pressure enhanced the migration and invasion of HUVECs, which was accompanied by upregulation of genes involved in angiogenesis, extracellular matrix organization, and cytoskeletal organization. The mRNA levels of growth factors, including placental growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor B, also increased. In addition, phosphorylation of paxicillin, focal adhesion kinase, and AKT increased under negative pressure. Collectively, the findings of this study demonstrated that negative pressure stimulates the angiogenic activity of HUVECs by increasing their proliferation and migration via activation of the AKT signaling pathway.
An In Vitro Model of the Efficacy of Breast Implant Irrigant Solutions Against Gram-Negative Infections
Authors: Ha Michael , Ngaage Ledibabari M. , Smith Richard D. , Izac Jerilyn R. , Kim Peter C. , Singh Devinder , Slezak Sheri , Ernst Robert K. , Harro Janette , Rasko Yvonne M.
Published: November 2022

Background

In implant-based breast surgery, infections remain a clinically challenging complication. Surgeons often prophylactically address this risk by irrigating the implant at the time of placement. However, there remain few data on the ideal irrigant for gram-negative species.

Methods

The authors assessed the relative efficacy of 10% povidone-iodine, triple-antibiotic solution, Prontosan, Clorpactin, and normal saline (negative control) against 3 gram-negative bacterial backgrounds: Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus species. A laboratory-adapted strain and a clinical isolate were selected for each group of bacteria. Sterile, smooth implant discs were immersed in each irrigant solution and then incubated in suspensions of each bacterial strain overnight at 37°C. Each disc was then rinsed and sonicated to displace biofilm-forming bacteria from the implant surface. The displaced bacteria were enumerated by plating, and normalized values were calculated for the bacterial counts of each irrigant.

Results

Povidone-iodine resulted in the greatest reduction of bacterial load for all 6 strains by a factor of 101 to 106. Prontosan had a lesser, yet significant reduction in all bacterial strains. Triple-antibiotic solution demonstrated the greatest reduction in one Proteus species strain, and Clorpactin reduced bacterial counts in only half of the bacterial strains. When comparing laboratory strains to clinical isolates, significant differences were seen in each bacterial species in at least 2 irrigant solutions.

Conclusions

Povidone-iodine has been proven the most effective at reducing bacterial contamination of E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and Proteus species in both laboratory-adapted strains and clinical isolates.

Clinical Relevance

This study proves that povidone-iodine is the most effective at preventing gram-negative infections in breast implant surgery.
Comparison of Lumbar Artery and Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator Flaps for Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Hidaka Takeaki , Mori Hiroki , Shimizu Hiroaki , Takahashi Susumu , Tanaka Kentaro , Okazaki Mutsumi
Published: November 2022

Background

Although the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap is the criterion standard for autologous breast reconstruction, lumbar artery perforator (LAP) and superior gluteal artery perforator (SGAP) flaps are recent trends as alternatives. The purpose of our study was to clarify differences of these flaps based on multislice CT findings of the same patient.

Methods

Retrospective study was conducted on 58 patients who underwent preoperative contrast-enhanced multislice CT for breast reconstruction using deep inferior epigastric artery perforator. Of these, 32 patients' data were evaluated excluding 26 patients' data either for the lumbar or gluteal fat being outside the imaging range or for nondepiction of the vascular pedicle origin of LAP or SGAP flap. Vascular pedicle diameter, pedicle length, and subcutaneous fat thickness were measured for LAP and SGAP flaps.

Results

The vascular pedicle diameter, pedicle length, and fat thickness were 2.1 (SD, 0.3) mm, 3.4 (SD, 0.4) cm, and 4.9 (SD, 1.0) cm, respectively, for LAP flaps; and 1.7 (SD, 0.2) mm, 5.6 (SD, 1.1) cm, and 2.7 (SD, 0.7) cm, respectively, for SGAP flaps.

Conclusions

The LAP flaps had thicker subcutaneous fat and a larger vascular pedicle diameter, whereas the SGAP flaps had a longer vascular pedicle. As donor material for breast reconstruction, the LAP flap is indicated for cases where absolute volume is needed; otherwise, the SGAP flap is more advantageous as it facilitates vascular anastomosis with its longer vascular pedicle.
A 3-Dimensional Analysis of Flap Volume Change in Hemi-Tongue Reconstruction
Authors: Woo Soo Hyun , Kim Young Chul , Jeong Woo Shik , Choi Jong Woo
Published: November 2022

Background

An adequate volume of the tongue flap is essential to preserve speech and swallowing functions. However, it is generally known that the volume of the free flap tends to decrease over time because of various reasons. Especially in hemi-tongue reconstruction, as half of the normal tongue is retained, some functions are maintained; consequently, there are few studies related to the volume of the flap and function. This study investigated the relationship between flap volume change and function after hemi-tongue reconstruction.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of 26 patients who underwent hemi-tongue reconstruction between 2003 and 2020 was performed. Patient demographic data, postoperative radiotherapy (RT), and data on flap types were collected. The volume of the flap was measured by converting the computed tomography and magnetic resonance images into 3 dimensions using the Mimics software. In addition, speech scores and feeding scores were collected.

Results

The first follow-up computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging (T1) was performed after an average of 2.09 months, and the second follow-up imaging study (T2) was performed at 16.58 months on average. On average, the T2 volume was 64% of the T1 volume (range, 45.75%–90.54%). Factors including speech and swallowing functions were compared by dividing the group into a group with a more than average decrease in volume (group 1) and a group with a less than average decrease in volume (group 2). In group 1, there were significantly more cases of postoperative RT than in group 2 (85.7%, 50.0%, in group 1 and group 2, respectively; P = 0.049). However, there was no difference in the functional aspects between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

The present study revealed that the flap volume decreased more when RT was performed. However, there was no association between the degree of volume loss and speech and swallowing functions. Regardless of the group, the loss of function was not severe, probably because the remaining half of the tongue was functioning.
The Role of Stem Cells Derived From the Mesenchyme of the Umbilical Cord in Reducing Immunosuppressive Drug Doses Used in Allogenic Transplantations
Authors: Guray Evin Seyda , Sutcu Mustafa , Aktan Tahsin Murad , Duman Selcuk , Harmankaya Ismail , Abusoglu Sedat
Published: November 2022

Background

This study evaluated the potential of Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells with high tolerogenic properties in reducing immunosuppressive dosage and related adverse effects.

Methods

A 4- to 6-week-old, 30–40 g weight, male inbred CD57BL/6 mice were used as skin allograft donors, whereas Balb/c mice with similar characteristics were used as recipients. Wharton's jelly stem cells were obtained from a commercial kit sourced from human umbilical cord. Skin allografts were performed from CD57Bl6 to Balb/c mice (day 0). Group 1 (control) received no treatment. Group 2 received 15 mg/kg cyclosporin A on days 0 to 30. Group 3 received 5.7 × 106 and 10.3 × 106 cell/kg Wharton's jelly stem cells on days 0 and 3, respectively. Groups 4, 5, and 6 received a combination of 15, 10, and 5 mg/kg per day cyclosporine A (days 0 to 30) with the same stem cell dose with group 3, respectively. Graft rejection was evaluated with digital photography and thermal imaging, histopathology (Banff grading, epithelialization scores, dermoepidermal dissociation), immunochemistry (Ki-67 and Bcl-2), and biochemical methods (interleukin 10, interleukin 2, interferon γ, tumor necrosis factor α) (day 10). Cumulative adverse effects of cyclosporin A occurring in the groups were revealed by histopathological evaluation of kidney and liver (a modified semiquantitative method of infiltration of inflammatory cells around the portal area and lobular region in liver; modification of the Banff rating of proximal tubules and hypertrophia of juxtaglomerular apparatus cells in kidney) (day 30).

Results

There was no rejection in groups 2, 4, and 5 until the end of study. These were statistically different versus groups 1 (day 10 ± 0.71), 3 (day 11 ± 0.82), and 6 (day 11 ± 0.58) (all P's < 0.05). Groups 4 and 5 have exhibited statistically similar findings in histopathological (4 epithelization score: 3.7 ± 1.3; 5 epithelization score: 3.5 ± 0.5; 4 Banff grading score: 0.8 ± 0.6; 5 Banff grading score: 1.0 ± 0.5; both P's = 1.00), immunohistochemical (4 Bcl-2 score: 3.5 ± 0.5, P = 0.618; 5 Bcl-2 score: 3.4 ± 0.5, P = 1.00; 4 Ki-67 score: 3.7 ± 0.4, P = 1.00; 5 Ki-67 score: 3.5 ± 0.5, both P's = 1.00), and levels of cytokines (both P's = 1.00) versus group 2. Adverse effects on kidneys and liver were lowest and statistically similar in groups 3, 5, and 6 (all P's = 00) versus group 1.

Conclusions

Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells alter bioavailability of cyclosporine, albeit at much lower doses and with fewer systemic adverse effects.
Saving the Exposed Deep Brain Stimulation Implant: A Comprehensive Review of Implant Extrusion and Reconstructive Options
Authors: Zhang Steven Liben , Lim Jia Xu , Ho Siyun Michelle , Cheong Ee Cherk , Lee Geraldine Hwee Ping , Wan Kai Rui , Ng Wai Hoe , Pek Chong Han
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) for the treatment of Parkinson disease is susceptible to complications, such as hardware extrusion, most commonly at the scalp and chest. The authors describe their experience with the management of hardware extrusion and reconstruction with one of the largest single-institution experience and suggest an evidence-based treatment algorithm for the management of such cases.

Methods

A retrospective review of hospital records was performed to identify patients who underwent DBS-related surgery and reconstruction from January 2015 to April 2020. Management of these patients involved culture-directed antibiotics, local wound debridement, various forms of reconstruction, and hardware removal when indicated.

Results

Ninety-four patients with 131 DBS-related procedures were included. Twelve patients (12.8%) had hardware extrusion, of which 6 occurred primarily at the scalp and 6 occurred primarily at the chest. Primary closure of scalp wounds (odds ratio, 0.05 [0.004–0.71], P = 0.035) was negatively associated with treatment success. The type of reconstruction of chest wounds did not affect its success (P = 0.58); however, none of them involved a new surgical bed, such as contralateral or hypochondrial placement.

Conclusions

Hardware extrusion is a significant complication of DBS-related surgery. Management of extrusion at the scalp should involve the use of tension-free, well-vascularized locoregional flaps as opposed to primary closure. Implantable pulse generator extrusions at the chest can be managed with both primary closure and repositioning in a new surgical bed. Extruded DBS implants may be salvaged with appropriate reconstructive considerations, and the authors suggest an evidence-based treatment algorithm.
A New Dissection Ladder Approach for Perforator Vessels in Infant Meningomyelocele Soft Tissue Reconstruction
Authors: EL-Shaier Mohammed , Abdelhamid Mahmoud S. , Abdelaal Mahmoud , Abdel-Tawab Mohamed , Morsy Abdalla , Askalany Awny
Published: November 2022

Background

Meningomyelocele reconstruction is a lifesaving procedure. A freestyle propeller perforator flap is an ideal option for moderate to large soft tissue meningomyelocele reconstruction. Previous studies that focused on the reliability of perforator flaps for meningomyelocele reconstruction recommended preserving a cuff of soft tissue around the perforators to avoid vasospasm. This method is a very conservative approach in comparison to the recently well-established principles of pedicled perforator flap dissection. In this study, we used a dissection ladder approach. In this method, the pedicle is freed by just islanding the pedicle, skeletonization of the perforator, or further dissection of the perforators beyond the muscles, based on intraoperatively monitoring of the flap.

Materials and Methods

Thirty-six infants with a mean age of 2.1 ± 1.1 months underwent surgery for dorsolumbar meningomyelocele at Assuit University Hospital for 3 years. During surgery, the freestyle perforator flap followed a dissection ladder for perforating vessels and intraoperative flap monitoring. Flap viability, seroma, hematoma, and cerebrospinal fluid leakage were evaluated.

Results

Nine cases required perforator skeletonization, 4 cases required dissection beyond the muscle, and 23 cases required islanding the flap on the perforators. The average operative time was 43.37 ± 7.87 minutes. Partial tip ischemia was detected in 2 cases. These cases exhibited partial dehiscence and healed by secondary intention. Complete flap loss did not occur in any cases.

Conclusions

A conservative approach for perforator flap elevation in infants did not provide optimal results in all cases of thoracolumbar meningomyelocele reconstructions. Well-established principles of perforator dissection, including skeletonization and dissection beyond the muscle, are safe, prevent vasospasms, and improve flap viability.
Evaluating the Effect of Socioeconomic Status on Complex Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Outcomes
Authors: Marxen Troy , Faulkner Heather R. , Losken Albert
Published: November 2022

Background

In complex abdominal wall reconstruction, maintenance and follow-up are vital to effective long-term patient care. This can present a challenge for individuals from a low-income household who may have less ability to afford time away from work or caring for dependents as well as challenges with transportation to and from follow-up appointments. Given the expenses and high complication rate in abdominal wall reconstruction, we elected to determine whether socioeconomic status had an impact on patient outcomes.

Methods

After obtaining institutional review board approval, all patients who underwent complex abdominal wall reconstruction between 2002 and 2021 by the senior author were reviewed in a retrospective cohort analysis of a prospectively maintained database. Complications were classified into overall, major, infection, and delayed wound healing. Outcomes were classified into recurrence and reoperation. The cohort was divided by median household income (MHI) level and race.

Results

A total of 478 patients received complex abdominal wall repair over a 19-year interval. A total of 324 patients identified MHI as <$75,000 (low MHI), and 154 patients identified MHI as > $75,000 (high MHI). Mean patient age was 53.9 (SD, 12.3) years. Mean patient body mass index (BMI) was 32.1 (SD, 7.8) kg/m2. There was no significant difference in age between the 2 MHI cohorts. There was a significant difference in BMI between MHI cohorts, with higher BMI among patients with low MHI (P = 0.0001). The majority of risk factors and surgical techniques were comparable. There was a statistically significant difference in hernia etiology, with higher rates of recurrent hernia repair among patients with low MHI (P = 0.007). The risk of overall complications (P = 0.0307) and delayed wound healing (P = 0.0263) was higher among patients with low MHI. Median household income was found to be an independent risk factor for complications after controlling for BMI, diabetes mellitus, and hernia etiology. There was no significant difference in follow-up time between cohorts.

Conclusion

Patients with low MHI who undergo complex abdominal wall reconstruction are at an increased risk for complications and poor outcomes, including delayed wound healing and hernia recurrence. This indicates the need to provide resources to address barriers to follow-up and maintenance following complex abdominal wall reconstruction in this patient cohort.
Analytical cell size distribution: lineage-population bias and parameter inference
Authors: Genthon Arthur
Published: November 2022

We derive analytical steady-state cell size distributions for size-controlled cells in single-lineage experiments, such as the mother machine, which are fundamentally different from batch cultures where populations of cells grow freely. For exponential single-cell growth, characterizing most bacteria, the lineage-population bias is obtained explicitly. In addition, if volume is evenly split between the daughter cells at division, we show that cells are on average smaller in populations than in lineages. For more general power-law growth rates and deterministic volume partitioning, both symmetric and asymmetric, we derive the exact lineage distribution. This solution is in good agreement withEscherichia colimother machine data and can be used to infer cell cycle parameters such as the strength of the size control and the asymmetry of the division. When introducing stochastic volume partitioning, we derive the large-size and small-size tails of the lineage distribution and show that the lineage-population bias only depends on the single-cell growth rate. These asymptotic behaviours are extended to the adder model of cell size control. When considering noisy single-cell growth rate, we derive the large-size lineage and population distributions. Finally, we show that introducing noise, either on the volume partitioning or on the single-cell growth rate, can cancel the lineage-population bias.
Evolutionary integration and modularity in the diversity of the suckermouth armoured catfishes
Authors: Black Corinthia R. , Armbruster Jonathan W.
Published: November 2022

The evolution of morphological diversity has held a long-standing fascination among scientists. In particular, do bodies evolve as single, integrated units or do different body parts evolve semi-independently (modules)? Suckermouth armoured catfishes (Loricariidae) have a morphology that lends nicely to evolutionary modularity and integration studies. In addition to a ventrally facing oral jaw that directly contacts surfaces, the neurocranium and pectoral girdle are fused, which limits movement of the anterior part of the body. Functional constraints suggest it is likely the head and post-cranial body act as separate modules that can evolve independently. If true, one would expect to see a two- or three-module system where the head and post-cranial body are morphologically distinct. To test this hypothesis, we quantified shape using geometric morphometric analysis and assessed the degree of modularity across functionally important regions. We found the armoured catfish body is highly modularized, with varying degrees of integration between each module. Within subfamilies, there are different patterns of evolutionary modularity and integration, suggesting that the various patterns may have driven diversification along a single trajectory in each subfamily. This study suggests the evolution of armoured catfish diversification is complex, with morphological evolution influenced by interactions within and between modules.
The Restrain Food Database: validation of an open-source database of foods that should be eaten more or less as part of a healthy diet
Authors: Randle Mark , Duarte Ines , Maizey Leah , Tzavella Loukia , Adams Rachel C. , Chambers Christopher D.
Published: November 2022

Studies of food-related behaviours often involve measuring responses to pictorial stimuli of foods. Creating these can be burdensome, requiring a significant commitment of time, and with sharing of images for future research constrained by legal copyright restrictions. The Restrain Food Database is an open-source database of 626 images of foods that are categorized as those people could eat more or less of as part of a healthy diet. This paper describes the database and details how to navigate it using our purpose-built R Shiny tool and a pre-registered online validation of a sample of images. A total of 2150 participants provided appetitive ratings, perceptions of nutritional content and ratings of image quality for images from the database. We found support for differences between Food Category on appetitive ratings which were also moderated by state hunger ratings. Findings relating to individual differences in appetite ratings as well as differences between BMI weight categories are also reported. Our findings validate the food categorization in the Restrain Food Database and provide descriptive information for individual images within this investigation. This database should ease the burden of selecting and creating appropriate images for future studies.
Rostrum morphology and feeding strategy of the baleen whale indicate that right whales and pygmy right whales became skimmers independently
Authors: Tanaka Yoshihiro
Published: November 2022

Baleen whales have lost their functional teeth and begun to use their baleen plates to feed on small prey. Modern baleen whales exhibit different types of feeding strategies, such as lunging, skimming and so on. The evolution of feeding strategy in the Chaeomysticeti is an important step in considering niche partitioning and diversification, feeding efficiency and gigantism, and evolution and extinction. This study analyses the rostrum morphology to test the hypothesis that specific rostral morphologies facilitate special feeding strategies, using modern species and their observed feeding strategies. By this means, the convergence of rostral morphology can be recognized in the closest groups in the morphospace. As a result, the two linages (Balaenidae and
Caperea marginata
) are recognized to have convergent rostral morphology. In addition, an early member of the Chaeomysticeti,
Yamatocetus canaliculatus
, and most fossil species are plotted in or close to the cluster of lunge feeders. The original feeding strategy of the Chaeomysticeti could be more similar to lunge feeding than to skim feeding. Fossil relatives of the two linages showing transitional conditions indicate that they shifted to skim feeding independently. The evolution of the feeding strategy of the Chaeomysticeti is possibly more complex than that was thought.
Quasi-steady-state modelling and characterization of diffusion-controlled dissolution from monodisperse prolate and oblate spheroidal particles
Authors: Wang Yanxing , Wan Hui , Wei Tie , Nevares Dominick , Shu Fangjun
Published: November 2022

A quasi-steady-state model of the dissolution of a single prolate or oblate spheroidal particle has been developed based on the exact solution of the steady-state diffusion equation for mass transfer in an unconfined media. With appropriate treatment of bulk concentration, the model can predict the detailed dissolution process of a single particle in a container of finite size. The dimensionless governing equations suggest that the dissolution process is determined by three dimensionless control parameters, initial solid particle concentration, particle aspect ratio and the product of specific volume of solid particles and saturation concentration of the dissolved substance. Using this model, the dissolution processes of felodipine particles are analysed in a broad range of space of the three control parameters and some characteristics are identified. The effects of material properties indicated by the product of specific volume and saturation concentration are also analysed. The model and the analysis are applicable to the system of monodisperse spheroidal particles of the same shape.
Symmetries in transmission electron microscopy imaging of crystals with strain
Authors: Koprucki Thomas , Maltsi Anieza , Mielke Alexander
Published: November 2022

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images of strained crystals often exhibit symmetries, the source of which is not always clear. To understand these symmetries, we distinguish between symmetries that occur from the imaging process itself and symmetries of the inclusion that might affect the image. For the imaging process, we prove mathematically that the intensities are invariant under specific transformations. A combination of these invariances with specific properties of the strain profile can then explain symmetries observed in TEM images. We demonstrate our approach to the study of symmetries in TEM images using selected examples in the field of semiconductor nanostructures such as quantum wells and quantum dots.
Shape reconfiguration through origami folding sets an upper limit on drag
Authors: Marzin Tom , de Langre Emmanuel , Ramananarivo Sophie
Published: November 2022

Mechanisms of drag reduction through shape reconfiguration have been extensively studied on model geometries of plates and beams that deform primarily in bending. Adding an origami crease pattern to such plates produces a distinct class of deformation modes, with large shape changes along selected degrees of freedom. Here, we investigate the impact of those creases on reconfiguration processes and on drag, focusing on the waterbomb base as a generic case. When placed in a uniform airflow, this origami unit folds into a compact structure, whose frontal area collapses with increasing flow velocity. It enhances drag reduction to the point that fluid loading eventually ceases to increase with flow speed, reaching an upper limit. We further show that this limit is adjustable through the origami structural parameters: the stiffness and rest angle of the folds, and their pattern. Experimental results, corroborated by a fluid–elastic theoretical model, point to a scenario consistent with the previous literature: reconfiguration is governed by a dimensionless Cauchy number that measures the competition between fluid loading and elastic resistance to deformation, here embodied in creases. This foldable system yet stands out through the rare passive drag-capping lever it provides, a valuable asset for self-protection in strong wind.
Why don't we share data and code? Perceived barriers and benefits to public archiving practices
Authors: Gomes Dylan G. E. , Pottier Patrice , Crystal-Ornelas Robert , Hudgins Emma J. , Foroughirad Vivienne , Sánchez-Reyes Luna L. , Turba Rachel , Martinez Paula Andrea , Moreau David , Bertram Michael G. , Smout Cooper A. , Gaynor Kaitlyn M.
Published: November 2022

The biological sciences community is increasingly recognizing the value of open, reproducible and transparent research practices for science and society at large. Despite this recognition, many researchers fail to share their data and code publicly. This pattern may arise from knowledge barriers about how to archive data and code, concerns about its reuse, and misaligned career incentives. Here, we define, categorize and discuss barriers to data and code sharing that are relevant to many research fields. We explore how real and perceived barriers might be overcome or reframed in the light of the benefits relative to costs. By elucidating these barriers and the contexts in which they arise, we can take steps to mitigate them and align our actions with the goals of open science, both as individual scientists and as a scientific community.
Great Gray Owls hunting voles under snow hover to defeat an acoustic mirage
Authors: Clark Christopher J. , Duncan James , Dougherty Robert
Published: November 2022

How do Great Gray Owls (Strix nebulosa) capture voles (Cricetidae) through a layer of snow? As snow is a visual barrier, the owls locate voles by ear alone. To test how snow absorbs and refracts vole sound, we inserted a loudspeaker under the snowpack and analysed sound from the loudspeaker, first buried, then unburied. Snow attenuation coefficients rose with frequency (0.3 dB cm−1at 500 Hz, 0.6 dB cm−1at 3 kHz) such that low-frequency sound transmitted best. The Great Gray Owl has the largest facial disc of any owl, suggesting they are adapted to use this low-frequency sound. We used an acoustic camera to spatially localize sound source location, and show that snow also refracts prey sounds (refractive index: 1.16). To an owl not directly above the prey, this refraction creates an ‘acoustic mirage’: prey acoustic position is offset from its actual location. Their hunting strategy defeats this mirage because they hover directly over prey, which is the listening position with least refraction and least attenuation. Among all birds, the Great Gray Owl has the most extreme wing morphologies associated with quiet flight. These extreme wing traits may function to reduce the sounds of hovering, with implications for bioinspiration.
Zunongwangia pacifica sp. nov., isolated from surface seawater of the Western Pacific Ocean
Authors: Chen Yongqing , Liu Tianqi , Lai Qiliang , Dong Chunming , Shao Zongze
Published: November 2022

Zunongwangia

is a group of marine bacteria with important industrial application potential and ecological functions. In this study, a Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, non-motile, strictly aerobic and bright yellow pigmented bacterial strain within this genus, designated C2-37M9T, was isolated from a surface seawater sample from the Philippine Basin in the Western Pacific Ocean. Strain C2-37M9T grew at 10–44 °C (optimum, 28–30 °C), pH 6–9 (pH 7) and in the presence of 0–12 % NaCl (w/v; 2–3 %). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that it belonged to the genus

Zunongwangia

and had 95.7–98.7 % sequence similarity to all type strains of this genus, with the highest value corresponding to

Zunongwangia profunda

(98.7 %). Digital DNA–DNA hybridization, average nucleotide identity and average amino acid identity values between strain C2-37M9T and all valid type strains were 27.5–32.3, 83.8–86.7 and 86.9–89.0 %, respectively. The principal fatty acids (>5 %) were iso-C15 : 0, iso-C17 : 0 3-OH, anteiso-C15 : 0, summed feature 9 (C16 : 0 10-methyl and/or iso-C17 : 1
 ω9c), iso-C15 : 1 G and summed feature 3 (C16 : 1
 ω6c and/or C16 : 1
 ω7c). The predominant respiratory quinone was MK-6. The polar lipids were one phosphatidylethanolamine, two unknown glycolipids, three unidentified aminolipids and six unidentified lipids. The genomic DNA G+C content of strain C2-37M9T was 36.7 mol%. Based on phylogenetic results and genomic-based relatedness indices, as well as phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, strain C2-37M9T represents a novel species within the genus

Zunongwangia

, for which the name Zunongwangia pacifica sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is C2-37M9T (=MCCC M21534T=KCTC 82852T).
Description of a new strain of Streptomonospora nanhaiensis and reclassification of Streptomonospora halotolerans as a later heterotypic synonym of Streptomonospora nanhaiensis
Authors: Wu Yan , Yu Bing , Zhang Yuting , Wang Lan , Wang Han , Song Wenshuai , Xiang Wensheng , Zhao Junwei , Wang Xiangjing
Published: November 2022

A novel actinomycete, designated strain NEAU-YY374, was isolated from root of wheat and a polyphasic taxonomic study was carried out. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that strain NEAU-YY374 was closely related to

Streptomonospora halotolerans

NEAU-Jh2-17T (99.3 %) and

Streptomonospora nanhaiensis

12A09T (98.6%). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences demonstrated that strain NEAU-YY374 formed a stable clade with

S. halotolerans

NEAU-Jh2-17T and

S. nanhaiensis

12A09T in trees generated with two algorithms. Key morphological and chemotaxonomic properties also confirmed the affiliation of strain NEAU-YY374 to the genus

Streptomonospora

. The differences of DNA G+C contents among these three strains were all less than 1 %, and the digital DNA-DNA hybridization and the average nucleotide identity values were higher than the circumscription thresholds of species and subspecies, clearly indicating that the three strains should belong to the same species. Therefore, we concluded that strain NEAU-YY374 is a new strain of

S. nanhaiensis

. Meanwhile,

S. halotolerans

should be reclassified as a later heterotypic synonym of

S. nanhaiensis

according to the priority of publication and validation of the name.