bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thyrotropin secreting pituitary adenoma: a clinical case of postoperative re-onset thyrotoxicosis with adenoma recurrence
Authors: Maia Ariana , Cidade Rodrigues Catarina , Ribeiro Isabel , Amaral Cláudia
Published: May 2023

We report a case of a 19-year-old young male presenting with thyrotoxicosis with inappropriately elevated TSH. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a pituitary adenoma (8.2 x 9.7 mm), TRH stimulation test showed abnormal blunted TSH response, and serum glycoprotein hormone alpha-sub-unit was elevated. He had no family history of thyroid disease and TR-beta genetic testing excluded resistance to thyroid hormone action. The diagnosis of thyrotropin-secreting pituitary adenoma (TSHoma) was presumed and long-acting somatostatin analogue was promptly initiated. After two months of octreotide treatment, serum TSH and FT3 returned to within normal ranges. Tumour resection by transsphenoidal surgery was performed and, ten days after surgery, clinical hypothyroidism was achieved, despite detectable TSH levels (TSH 1.02 µU/ml[RR 0.27-4.2]). Although the patient remained euthyroid for the following three years, there was a gradual biochemical elevation in the levels of TSH, FT4, and FT3 over time, reaching serum values above the normal limit in the third year after surgery. Imaging did not show neoplasm recurrence at this point. After two years, the patient presented with clinical manifestations of re-onset thyrotoxicosis, with MRI revealing a T2 hypersignal oval area compatible with a pituitary adenoma. Adenectomy was performed. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses revealed a pituitary adenoma with transcription factor PIT1 expression and positivity for TSH and PRL. TSHoma treatment may not be always effective in the first therapeutic approach and recurrences are a possibility, making follow-up essential. The present case highlights the heterogeneity of post-treatment cure criteria and their limitations.
Don't turn a blind eye to cyber security
Authors: Rech Fabien
Published: May 2023

There's often a gap between security threats as understood by the C-suite and the day-to-day threats faced by security professionals. This can condemn the latter to working with outdated and inadequate solutions. Executives need to understand that cyber security is an area crying out for investment.
Assessment of Wood Chips and Agricultural Residues as Denitrifying Bioreactor Feedstocks for Use in the Canadian Prairies
Authors: Kohn Jacqueline , Piorkowski Gregory S. , Seitz Vermeer Nicole E. , Villeneuve Janelle F.
Published: May 2023

Highlights

Performance of denitrifying bioreactors in Alberta was evaluated.

Barley straw was more effective in reducing nitrate compared to wood chips.

Hydraulic retention time, feedstock, and season are the primary factors affecting nitrate removal.

Abstract. This study evaluated the performance of pilot-scale denitrifying bioreactors (LWD: 6 × 0.6 × 1m) filled with different carbon substrates, including barley straw, hemp straw, and woodchips, for removing dissolved nitrogen from simulated subsurface drainage at two representative geographic locations in Alberta. In this study, the bioreactors were tested under varying hydraulic retention times (4, 8, and 12 h) in the spring, summer, and fall of one year. Tracer studies were conducted to evaluate flow and dispersion characteristics. The mean of nitrate removal efficiency ranged from 19% to 87% during the spring, 44% to 95% during the summer, and 21% to 68% during the fall. We found that barley straw was more effective in reducing nitrate (45% to 95%) compared to wood chips (19% to 54%). This study is the first testing of the effect of different biomass types and hydraulic residence times on bioreactor performance in the Canadian prairies (Alberta) and will allow agricultural producers and regulators to assess the suitability of these systems within the region. Keywords: Bioreactor, Denitrification, Water quality, Wood chips, Agricultural residues, Subsurface Drainage.
Sugarcane Node Detection Method Based on Photoelectric Sensor Vertical Projection Signal Processing
Authors: Wen Chunming , Xiao Zhanpeng , Yan Yunzhi , Huang Youzong , Xie Zhongjian , Nong Hongliang , Lan Zimian , Lu Yuchun , Wu Qiaohui
Published: May 2023

Highlights

A linear array CCD sensor is utilized to obtain the contour signal of the vertical projection of the sugarcane.

A method is provided for continuously identifying and locating sugarcane nodes.

Examines the impact of scan speed and illumination on the accuracy of identification.

The method performs well regarding identification rate, precision, and efficiency.

Abstract. In order to achieve continuous and dynamic detection of sugarcane nodes, improve the automatic production efficiency of pre-cut sugarcane seed, and lower the cost of mechanized sugarcane production, a detection method based on linear array charge-coupled device (CCD) photoelectric sensor signal processing was developed. Firstly, the mechanical drive unit was controlled to drive the photoelectric detection system to acquire the signal of the vertical projection of the sugarcane profile. The projection information was then binarized into profile information using the Otsu algorithm. The profile signal was then decomposed using a variable mode decomposition algorithm optimized based on the sparrow search algorithm, and the component reflecting the node content was regarded as the feature signal. Finally, the position of the wave peaks above the judgment threshold in the normalized feature signal was considered the position of the sugarcane nodes. One-way and two-way experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of scan speed and illuminance on identification precision. The results showed that the identification rate, average response time, and average error values were 98.40%, 0.13 s, and 1.36 mm at a scan speed of 75 mm/s and an illuminance of 91.91 lx. Compared to other node identification methods discussed in this article, the proposed method has a high identification rate and accuracy with a high response speed, which can improve the automation efficiency of sugarcane seed production. Keywords: Identification accuracy, Non-contact detection, Photoelectric sensor, Precision agriculture, Seed production, Signal processing, Sugarcane node, Variational mode decomposition.
Profunda femoris mycotic aneurysm as a complication of bacterial endocarditis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Dixon J , Mirtorabi N , Valenti D
Published: May 2023

Profunda femoris aneurysms account for only 0.5% of all peripheral artery aneurysms. This case documents a profunda femoris mycotic aneurysm (MA) in a 47-year-old woman, three years post-treatment of bacterial endocarditis. The patient underwent an open surgical excision of the aneurysm with antibiotic cover and made a successful recovery. A literature review was carried out to look at other MA cases to summarise the most common presentations, infective agents and management strategies.
Integrating instructional design principles into surgical skills training models: an innovative approach
Authors: Rajaratnam V , Rahman NA , Dong C
Published: May 2023

Objective

Surgical training programmes are evolving from time-based to competency-based schedules, which define expected learning outcomes in surgical knowledge, clinical and technical skills according to training levels. This article aims to review current models in surgical skills acquisition and to propose an integrative process-driven, outcomes-based model for surgical skills acquisition and mastery.

Design

A literature review was conducted on the theories of motor skills acquisition using PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar from 2010 to February 2020. The review was limited to theories and models on surgical skills acquisition and mastery. Four models of surgical skills acquisition were included: Fitts and Posner’s three-stage model of motor skills acquisition, Bandura’s social learning theory, Ericsson’s deliberate practice model and Jeannerod’s motor simulation theory. These models are deficient in that there is no universally accessible opportunity to practise the surgical procedure outside of the operating theatre and without access to physical simulators.

Results

We propose an innovative model that allows deliberate practice of the procedure without the need for expensive physical simulators, and provides an on-demand, self-directed practice by the trainees to achieve the level of mastery. This new model, which incorporates motor imagery and mental practice, augmented by deliberate practice, will provide an alternative training path for expert performance in surgical procedures.

Conclusions

The innovative model provides a solution to the reduced opportunity for practice by surgical trainees to achieve mastery in surgical motor skills.
A rare case of successful percutaneous drainage of a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus prostatic abscess extending into the penis and revealing diabetes mellitus
Authors: Hajji F , Miloudi M , Hammoune N , Ghoundale O
Published: May 2023

In the postantibiotic era, prostatic abscesses (PAs) are rare, affecting primarily immunocompromised men and/or caused by atypical drug-resistant pathogens, raising both diagnostic and management challenges. PA caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an uncommon condition and also a primary source of bacteremia. Nevertheless, the continued pattern of increase in reported cases, due especially to community-associated strains, is a growing concern regarding the significant morbidity and mortality. Besides proper antibiotics, drainage of a PA may be required, which is usually transrectal or transurethral. Herein, we describe the case of MRSA PA extending into the penis with concomitant MRSA bacteremia of unknown origin, whereupon diabetes mellitus was newly diagnosed in a previously healthy man residing in a community setting, and managed successfully by a transperineal drainage with good outcome. This case also highlights that individuals diagnosed with such rare deep-seated MRSA infections should be assessed for undiagnosed comorbidities. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of percutaneous drainage of a PA by using a double-lumen catheter.
A rare case of an iatrogenic superior mesenteric arteriovenous fistula following surgery for a midgut volvulus
Authors: Dutta S , Verma S , Vaka SRK , Chellasamy RT , Jain A , Munuswamy H , Nagarajan K , Ramakrishnaiah VPN
Published: May 2023

Superior mesenteric arteriovenous fistula is an extremely rare vascular malformation with most cases occurring following abdominal trauma or surgery. They are often asymptomatic or present with various abdominal symptoms with or without features of portal hypertension. A 30-year-old man developed fistulising of the superior mesenteric artery into the superior mesenteric vein following bowel resection surgery for an acquired midgut volvulus. Although endovascular management remains the treatment of choice in such cases due to increased morbidity of a repeat abdominal surgery, definite risks remain, such as coil migration, which happened in this case. The open surgical approach remains the only option in such instances.
Isolated oesophageal Crohn’s disease mimicking oesophageal carcinoma treated by Merendino procedure
Authors: Al Zoghby S , Bohlok A , Moschopoulos C , Toussaint E , Verset L , Demetter P , El NAkadi I
Published: May 2023

Oesophageal involvement is a very rare presentation of Crohn’s disease. It can occur as an isolated mass causing dysphagia and can be mistaken for malignancy. Here, we report a case of a 75-year-old woman presenting with dysphagia and weight loss. Gastroscopy showed an ulcerating mass, and her barium swallow showed a bird beak appearance at the level of the gastro-oesophageal junction (GEJ). Repetitive biopsies were inconclusive. Fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography showed high glucose uptake (standardised uptake value: 10.2) at the level of the GEJ. Endoscopic ultrasound classified the lesion as uT3N1. Step-by-step surgical exploration revealed an oesophageal mass. A frozen section examination showed an absence of malignancy and the presence of inflammatory tissue. A partial oesophagogastrostomy was performed, and reconstruction was achieved by a Merendino procedure. Definitive histopathological examination revealed isolated oesophageal Crohn’s disease.
Core needle biopsy causing a pseudoaneurysm in the breast
Authors: Swain B , Castelhano R , Litton K , Chaudhry A
Published: May 2023

Core needle biopsy (CNB) is the first-choice method of sampling suspicious, focal breast lesions for histological analysis. Here we present the case of a 65-year-old woman who was recalled for evaluation of the left breast following a screening mammogram. An ultrasound-guided biopsy was performed using a disposable core biopsy needle and 3 weeks later a magnetic resonance imaging scan showed a distended vessel with adjacent sac measuring 17 × 15mm2. A Doppler ultrasound scan confirmed pseudoaneurysm. A review of the literature was made on breast pseudoaneurysm following CNB, and over the past 20 years there were few other reports. Pseudoaneurysms in the breast are a rare but serious complication of CNBs. They may spontaneously thrombose, but often require intervention, so it is essential that clinicians are aware of the risk.
Haemoperitoneum caused by spontaneous haemorrhage of the greater omentum: a rare complication occurring in a patient with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Viñas J , Amor M Crespi , Fuente I , Rabellino J , Pekolj J
Published: May 2023

Haemorrhagic events in patients diagnosed with coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) are infrequent but reports have accumulated since the beginning of the pandemic. The pathophysiological mechanisms are unclear, but endothelial damage secondary to systemic vasculitis and the onset of anticoagulation therapy, both associated with severe forms of the infection, have been proposed to play a role in the development of this complication. We present the case of a 66-year-old man who presented to the emergency department with acute abdominal pain, hypotension and decrease of consciousness, a few hours after being discharged after a prolonged hospitalisation of 26 days due to severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. Initial resuscitation was carried out and, when haemodynamic stabilisation was achieved, a computed tomography scan showed contrast extravasation at the topography of the greater omentum. Urgent angiography revealing contrast extravasation originating in a pseudoaneurysm dependent on the right gastroepiploic artery was done, and embolisation with cyanoacrylate was performed at the bleeding point. Owing to persistent haemodynamic instability despite angiographic treatment and aggressive resuscitation, emergency laparotomy was indicated. Partial resection of the greater omentum was carried out and histopathologic examination showed a 5cm×4cm×6cm haematoma, with no signs of abnormalities such as aneurysm or malignancy. No rebleeding occurred. Spontaneous haemorrhage of the greater omentum associated with haemoperitoneum is a serious condition, with reported mortality rates exceeding 30%. This case highlights a very infrequent but potentially life-threatening complication in a patient diagnosed with COVID-19 on anticoagulation therapy.
Rapid implementation of triaging system for assessment of breast referrals from primary care centres during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Shetty G , Datta U , Rea I , Rai S , Hwang M-J , Hoar F , Sintler M , Mirza M , Husain A , Tan M
Published: May 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to establish a triaging system for assessment of breast referrals from primary care to ensure safe and effective breast services without compromising breast cancer management.

Background

COVID-19 was officially declared a global pandemic on 11 March 2020, and with no effective treatment available, preventing spread has been paramount. Previously, all referrals from primary care were seen in the rapid-access breast clinic (RABC). Clinic appointments exposed patients and healthcare professionals to risk.

Method

Initial triage during the lockdown was in line with national governing body guidance, rejected low risk referrals and streamed remaining patients through a telephone consultation to RABC or discharge. A modified triage pathway streamed all patients through virtual triage to RABC, telephone clinic or discharge with advice and guidance categories. Demographics, reasons for referral and outcomes data were collected and presented as median with range and frequency with percentages.

Results

Initial triage (23 March–23 April 2020) found fewer referrals with a higher percentage of breast cancer diagnoses. Modified triage (22 June–17 July 2020) resulted in a 35.1% (99/282) reduction in RABC attendance. Overall cancer detection rate remained similar at 4.2% of all referrals pre-COVID (18/429) and 4.3% (12/282) during modified triage. After six months follow-up of patients not seen in RABC during the modified triage pathway, 18 patients were re-referred to RABC and none were diagnosed with cancer.

Conclusion

A modified triage pathway has the potential to improve triage efficiency and prevent unnecessary visits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further refinement of pathway is feasible in collaboration with primary care.
Laparoscopy uptake for paediatric appendicectomy: a comparison of general surgeons versus specialist paediatric surgeons in England from 1997 to 2015
Authors: Bethell GS , Adams S , Johnson T , Hall NJ , Stanton MP
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Laparoscopy is used in as many as 95% of adult appendicectomies. There is level I evidence showing that it reduces wound infection, postoperative ileus and length of inpatient stay in children compared with the open approach. The aim of this study was to report the uptake of laparoscopy for paediatric appendicectomy in England and to determine whether this was similar for general surgeons (GS) and specialist paediatric surgeons (SPS).

Methods

Hospital Episode Statistics data were obtained for all children aged <16 years who had an OPCS 4.6 code for emergency appendicectomy from 1997 to 2015 (18 years). Data are analysed to compare rate of laparoscopic vs open procedures for GS and SPS over time and to investigate factors associated with the use of laparoscopy.

Results

There were 196,987 appendicectomies and where specialty was available, 133,709 (79%) cases were undertaken by GS and 35,141 (21%) by SPS. The rate of cases undertaken with laparoscopy for both specialties combined increased from 0.8% in 1998 to 50% in 2014 (p<0.0001). In 2014, this rate was 41% for GS compared with 71% for SPS (p<0.0001). Female gender (odds ratio (OR)=1.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.80–1.90), increasing age (OR=1.18, 95% CI 1.18–1.19 per year) and treatment by SPS (OR=3.71, 95% CI 3.60–3.82) were all factors positively associated with use of laparoscopy in multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

There has been a vast increase in the proportion of appendicectomies undertaken laparoscopically in children. Despite adjusting for patient factors, laparoscopy was used significantly less by GS when compared with SPS. This difference is most apparent in younger children.
High incidence of dyspnoea and pulmonary aspiration in giant hiatus hernia: a previously unrecognised cause of dyspnoea
Authors: Mugino M , Little SC , Van der Wall H , Falk GL
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Dyspnoea is common in patients with giant paraoesophageal hernia (PEH). Pulmonary aspiration has not previously been recognised as a significant contributory factor. Aspiration pneumonia in association with both gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and PEH has a high mortality rate. There is debate about routine anti-reflux measures with surgical repair. Reflux aspiration has been examined in a consecutive cohort using scintigraphic scanning and symptoms.

Methods

Reflux aspiration scintigraphy (RASP) results and symptoms were evaluated in consecutive patients with PEH managed in our service between January 2012 and March 2017.

Results

PEH was diagnosed in 96 patients. Preoperative reflux pulmonary scanning was performed in 70 patients: 54 were female (77.1%) and the mean age was 68 years (range 49–85). Dyspnoea was the most common symptom (77.1%), and a symptomatic history of aspiration was seen in 18 patients (25.7%). Clinical aspiration was confirmed by RASP in 13 of these cases. Silent RASP aspiration occurred in a further 27 patients without clinical symptoms. RASP was negative in five patients with clinical symptoms of aspiration. No aspiration by either criterion was present in 27 patients. Dysphagia was negatively related to aspiration on RASP (p<0.01), whereas dyspnoea was not (p=0.857).

Conclusion

GORD, dyspnoea and silent pulmonary aspiration are frequent occurrences in the presence of giant PEH. Subjective aspiration was the most specific and positive predictor of pulmonary aspiration. Dyspnoea in PEH patients may be caused by pulmonary aspiration, cardiac compression and gas trapping. The high rate of pulmonary aspiration in PEH patients may support anti-reflux repair.
Perioperative administration of tranexamic acid in hip fracture surgery (The PATHS study): national audit of current practice
Authors: Berg AJ , Naylor T , Johnson DS ,   The PATHS Study Collaborators
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Neck of femur fractures (NOFF) are associated with significant morbidity and mortality, exacerbated by anaemia. Evidence indicates tranexamic acid (TXA) administration in NOFF surgery reduces blood loss and transfusion requirements, without increasing complications. The aim of this study was to establish current TXA administration practice in patients undergoing surgery for NOFF in the UK.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre prospective study within the UK over a two-week period in March 2019. Pre-, intra- and postoperative data were collected locally and analysed centrally.

Results

Data for 917 patients were submitted from 66 institutions. Of those eligible, 48.0% received TXA perioperatively. Administration rates varied from 0 to 100%. Significantly greater numbers undergoing arthroplasty received TXA (57.6%) compared with internal fixation (38.4%, p<0.01). Some 15.2% of institutions had a protocol for TXA use in NOFF. Patients treated in these units were significantly more likely to receive TXA (86.7%) than those who were not (41.2% p<0.01). Of those receiving TXA, 92.3% were given 1g intravenously (IV) at anaesthetic administration.

Conclusions

Despite supportive evidence for its use, a wide variation in the administration of TXA between hospitals and procedures has been demonstrated. Administration rates were higher for arthroplasty than for fixation procedures. Most centres do not have a protocol guiding TXA administration. We recommend administration of 1g IV TXA perioperatively for patients undergoing NOFF surgery, where not contraindicated, unless future randomised controlled trials support an alternative regimen. We recommend units include their own locally agreed TXA policy within a written protocol for the care of NOFF patients.
Structured illumination phase and fluorescence microscopy for bioimaging
Authors: Wen Kai , Gao Zhaolin , Liu Ruihua , Fang Xiang , Ma Ying , Zheng JuanJuan , An Sha , Kozacki Tomasz , Gao Peng
Published: May 2023

This study presents a dual-modality microscopic imaging approach that combines quantitative phase microscopy and fluorescence microscopy based on structured illumination (SI) to provide structural and functional information for the same sample. As the first imaging modality, structured illumination digital holographic microscopy (SI-DHM) is implemented along the transmission beam path. SI-DHM acts as a label-free, noninvasive approach and provides high-contrast and quantitative phase images utilizing the refractive index contrast of the inner structures of samples against the background. As the second imaging modality, structured illumination (fluorescence) microscopy (SIM) is constructed along the reflection beam path. SIM utilizes fluorescent labeling and provides super-resolution images for specific functional structures of samples. We first experimentally demonstrated phase imaging of SI-DHM on rice leaves and fluorescence (SIM) imaging on mouse kidney sections. Then, we demonstrated dual-modality imaging of biological samples, using DHM to acquire the overall cell morphology and SIM to obtain specific functional structures. These results prove that the proposed technique is of great importance in biomedical studies, such as providing insight into cell physiology by visualizing and quantifying subcellular structures.
Multihop IRS-assisted free space optics communication with DF relaying: a performance analysis
Authors: Uniyal Smriti , Vishwakarma Narendra , Swaminathan R.
Published: May 2023

Free space optics communication (FSO) offers several advantages over its counterpart radio frequency (RF) systems in terms of bandwidth, data rates, and cost efficiency. However, FSO, being a line-of-sight (LoS) communication system, is hindered by various environmental factors. In this paper, we propose a multihop decode-and-forward (DF) relaying-based intelligent reflecting surface (IRS)-assisted FSO system with an aim to deal with the impediments in FSO communication, and it is assumed that each IRS consists of multiple reflecting elements. Specifically, we derive end-to-end expressions for cumulative distribution function (CDF) of output instantaneous signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Furthermore, with the aid of the CDF statistics, we study the performance of the proposed system by obtaining the expressions for outage probability (OP) and average symbol error rate (ASER) in terms of multivariate Fox’s H-function. Moreover, we have quantified the system performance by numerical results. The numerical results show that the multihop IRS-assisted FSO system provides better performance when compared to a single-hop IRS-assisted FSO system and multihop FSO system without IRS. Finally, the derived expressions of OP and ASER are validated using Monte-Carlo simulations.
Phase-based reconstruction optimization method for digital holographic measurement of microstructures
Authors: Wang Chen , Wang Weikang , Wei Jiasi , Wu Junjie , Zhang Xiangchao , Zheng Huadong , Wang Famin , Yu Yingjie
Published: May 2023

Digital holography has transformative potential in measuring stacked-chip microstructures due to its noninvasive, single-shot, full-field characteristics. However, uncertainties in reconstruction distance inevitably lead to resolving blur and reconstruction distortion. Herein, we propose a phase-based reconstruction optimization method that consists of a phase-evaluation function and a structured surface-characterization model. Our proposed method involves setting a reconstruction distance range, obtaining phase information using sliced numerical reconstruction, and optimizing the reconstruction distance by finding the extreme value of the function, which identifies the focal plane of the reconstructed image. The structure of the surface topography is then characterized using the characterization model. We perform simulations of the recording, reconstruction, and characterization to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. To further demonstrate the approach, a simple holographic recording system is constructed to measure a standard resolution target, and the measurement results are compared with a commercial instrument. The simulation and experiment demonstrate, respectively, 31.16% and 34.41% improvement in step-height characterization accuracy.
Spatial frequency domain imaging for the assessment of scleroderma skin involvement
Authors: Pilvar Anahita , Mehendale Aarohi M. , Karrobi Kavon , El-Adili Fatima , Bujor Andreea , Roblyer Darren
Published: May 2023

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the widespread deposition of excess collagen in the skin and internal organs, as well as vascular dysfunction. The current standard of care technique used to quantify the extent of skin fibrosis in SSc patients is the modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS), which is an assessment of skin thickness based on clinical palpation. Despite being considered the gold standard, mRSS testing requires a trained physician and suffers from high inter-observer variability. In this study, we evaluated the use of spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI) as a more quantitative and reliable method for assessing skin fibrosis in SSc patients. SFDI is a wide-field and non-contact imaging technique that utilizes spatially modulated light to generate a map of optical properties in biological tissue. The SFDI data were collected at six measurement sites (left and right forearms, hands, and fingers) of eight control subjects and ten SSc patients. mRSS were assessed by a physician, and skin biopsies were collected from subject’s forearms and used to assess for markers of skin fibrosis. Our results indicate that SFDI is sensitive to skin changes even at an early stage, as we found a significant difference in the measured optical scattering (μs′) between healthy controls and SSc patients with a local mRSS score of zero (no appreciable skin fibrosis by gold standard). Furthermore, we found a strong correlation between the diffuse reflectance (R
d
) at a spatial frequency of 0.2 mm−1 and the total mRSS between all subjects (Spearman correlation coefficient = -0.73, p-value < 0.0028), as well as high correlation with histology results. The healthy volunteer results show excellent inter- and intra-observer reliability (ICC > 0.8). Our results suggest that the measurement of tissue μs′ and R
d
at specific spatial frequencies and wavelengths can provide an objective and quantitative assessment of skin involvement in SSc patients, which could greatly improve the accuracy and efficiency of monitoring disease progression and evaluating drug efficacy.
Large-scale optical compression of free-space using an experimental three-lens spaceplate
Authors: Sorensen Nicholas J. , Weil Michael T. , Lundeen Jeff S.
Published: May 2023

Recently introduced, spaceplates achieve the propagation of light for a distance greater than their thickness. In this way, they compress optical space, reducing the required distance between optical elements in an imaging system. Here we introduce a spaceplate based on conventional optics in a 4-f arrangement, mimicking the transfer function of free-space in a thinner system - we term this device a three-lens spaceplate. It is broadband, polarization-independent, and can be used for meter-scale space compression. We experimentally measure compression ratios up to 15.6, replacing up to 4.4 meters of free-space, three orders of magnitude greater than current optical spaceplates. We demonstrate that three-lens spaceplates reduce the length of a full-color imaging system, albeit with reductions in resolution and contrast. We present theoretical limits on the numerical aperture and the compression ratio. Our design presents a simple, accessible, cost-effective method for optically compressing large amounts of space.
Performance evaluation of plastic optical fiber communication using micro-lens coupling and computational temporal ghost imaging algorithm
Authors: Zhang Li , Liu Fanyu , Zhong Hao , Cao Zhigang , Li Siqi , Hu Zhijia , Liu Zichen , He Zhixue , Yu Benli , Li Chao
Published: May 2023

Plastic optical fiber communication (POFC) systems are particularly sensitive to signal performance and power budget. In this paper, we propose what we belive to be a novel scheme to jointly enhance the bit-error-ratio (BER) performance and coupling efficiency for multi-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM-M) based POFC systems. The computational temporal ghost imaging (CTGI) algorithm is developed for PAM4 modulation for the first time to resist the system distortion. The simulation results reveal that enhanced BER performance and clear eye diagrams are acquired by using CTGI algorithm with an optimized modulation basis. Experimental results also investigate and show, with CTGI algorithm, the BER performance for 180 Mb/s PAM4 signals is enhanced from 2.2 × 10−2 to 8.4 × 10−4 over 10 m POF by using a 40 MHz photodetector. The POF link is equipped with micro-lenses at its end faces by using a ball-burning technique, which helps to increase the coupling efficiency from 28.64% to 70.61%. Both simulation and experimental results show that the proposed scheme is feasible to achieve a cost-effective and high-speed POFC system with short reach.
Deep learning-enhanced fluorescence microscopy via confocal physical imaging model
Authors: Zhang Baoyuan , Sun Xuefeng , Mai Jialuo , Wang Weibo
Published: May 2023

Confocal microscopy is one of the most widely used tools for high-resolution cellular, tissue imaging and industrial inspection. Micrograph reconstruction based on deep learning has become an effective tool for modern microscopy imaging techniques. While most deep learning methods neglect the imaging process mechanism, which requires a lot of work to solve the multi-scale image pairs aliasing problem. We show that these limitations can be mitigated via an image degradation model based on Richards-Wolf vectorial diffraction integral and confocal imaging theory. The low-resolution images required for network training are generated by model degradation from their high-resolution counterparts, thereby eliminating the need for accurate image alignment. The image degradation model ensures the generalization and fidelity of the confocal images. By combining the residual neural network with a lightweight feature attention module with degradation model of confocal microscopy ensures high fidelity and generalization. Experiments on different measured data report that compared with the two deconvolution algorithms, non-negative least squares algorithm and Richardson-Lucy algorithm, the structural similarity index between the network output image and the real image reaches a high level above 0.82, and the peak signal-to-noise ratio can be improved by more than 0.6 dB. It also shows good applicability in different deep learning networks.
Point-polygon hybrid method for generating holograms
Authors: Wang Fan , Blinder David , Ito Tomoyoshi , Shimobaba Tomoyoshi
Published: May 2023

Computer-generated holograms (CGHs) are usually calculated from point clouds or polygon meshes. Point-based holograms are good at depicting details of objects, such as continuous depth cues, while polygon-based holograms tend to efficiently render high-density surfaces with accurate occlusions. Herein, we propose a novel point-polygon hybrid method (PPHM) to compute CGHs for the first time (to the best of our knowledge), which takes advantage of both point-based and polygon-based methods, and thus performs better than each of them separately. Reconstructions of 3D object holograms confirm that the proposed PPHM can present continuous depth cues with fewer triangles, implying high computational efficiency without losing quality.
Interferometric fiber-optic gyroscope based on mode-division multiplexing
Authors: Cao Yuwen , Ma Xiangdong , Chen Yanjun , Huang Huimin , Zhu Lanxin , Wang Wenbo , He Yan , Li Zhengbin
Published: May 2023

The interferometric fiber-optic gyroscope (IFOG) is widely used in the fields of inertial navigation and rotational seismology. A direct way to improve the sensitivity of the IFOG is to increase the length of the sensing fiber, but this increases the cost and size of the gyroscope. Here, we propose an IFOG based on mode-division multiplexing (MDM), which exhibits relatively high performance. The experimental results show that, the proposed IFOG is improved to twice as much in terms of sensitivity, angle random walk, and bias instability with the use of MDM. This research provides a novel, to the best of our knowledge, solution for the design and implementation of low-cost, high-sensitivity IFOGs, which could contribute to their application in a wider range of fields.
Fabrication and characterization of a VO2: PVP/PSi/ and n-Si heterojunction for photodetector applications
Authors: Ismail Maysoon H. , Ali Alaa H. , Thahab S. M.
Published: May 2023

Vanadium dioxide nanoparticles (VO2) NPs have been demonstrated to create a thin film based for photodetectors which are controlled by size, shape, and morphology of materials in nanoscale by using hydrothermal method. Analyses from XRD, AFM and FT-IR showed that crystallite size = 12.92 nm, particle size = 16 nm, root mean-square of roughness = 21.3 respectively as well as, the transmittance reaches 96%. The results agree with optical properties where energy gap of samples = 1.36. The proposed results, for the Ag/VO2/PSi/n-Si/Ag heterojunction photo-detector are considerably better than other photodetectors. Responsivity of detector 0.9A/W at 915 nm and maximum value of detectivity D* 3.3 × 1012 W-1. cm. Hz0.
Hydrophobic cue-induced appressorium formation depends on MoSep1-mediated MoRgs7 phosphorylation and internalization in Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Xu Jiayun , Liu Xinyu , Zhang Wei , Feng Wanzhen , Liu Muxing , Yang Leiyun , Yang Zhixiang , Zhang Haifeng , Zhang Zhengguang , Wang Ping
Published: May 2023

The rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae forms specialized infectious structures called appressoria that breach host cells to initiate infection. Previous studies demonstrated that the regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS)-like protein MoRgs7 undergoes endocytosis upon fungal sensing of hydrophobic environmental cues to activate cAMP signaling required for appressorium formation. However, the mechanism by which MoRgs7 internalizes and its fate remains undetermined. We here show that MoSep1, a conserved protein kinase of Mitotic Exit Network (MEN), phosphorylates MoRgs7 to regulate its function. MoRgs7 phosphorylation determines its interaction with MoCrn1, a coronin-like actin-binding protein homolog that also modulates the internalization of MoRgs7. Importantly, the endocytic transport of MoRgs7 is critical for its GTPase-activating protein (GAP) function important in cAMP signaling. Together, our findings revealed a novel mechanism by which M. oryzae activates MoRgs7-mediated hydrophobic cue-sensing signal transduction involving protein phosphorylation and endocytic transport to govern appressorium formation and fungal pathogenicity.
Infant mortality and growth failure after oral azithromycin among low birthweight and underweight neonates: A subgroup analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bountogo Mamadou , Sié Ali , Zakane Alphonse , Compaoré Guillaume , Ouédraogo Thierry , Brogdon Jessica , Lebas Elodie , Nyatigo Fanice , Medvedev Melissa M. , Arnold Benjamin F. , Lietman Thomas M. , Oldenburg Catherine E. ,   for the NAITRE Study Team
Published: May 2023

Background

Low birthweight (birthweight <2500 grams, g) and underweight (weight-for-age Z-score, WAZ, < -2) infants have higher risk of poor outcomes compared to their well-nourished peers. We evaluated the role of azithromycin for reducing mortality and improving growth outcomes in low birthweight and/or underweight infants.

Methods

Infants aged 8–27 days of age weighing ≥2500 g at enrollment in Burkina Faso were randomized 1:1 to a single, oral dose of azithromycin (20 mg/kg) or matching placebo. We evaluated mortality and anthropometric outcomes in four subgroups: 1) both low birthweight and underweight at enrollment; 2) low birthweight-only; 3) underweight-only; 4) neither low birthweight nor underweight.

Findings

Of 21,832 enrolled infants, 21,320 (98%) had birthweight measurements and included in this analysis. Of these, 747 (3%) were both low birthweight and underweight, 972 (5%) were low birthweight-only, 825 (4%) were underweight-only, and 18,776 (88%) were neither low birthweight nor underweight. Infants who were both low birthweight and underweight receiving azithromycin had lower odds of underweight at 6 months compared to placebo (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.95), but the treatment group by subgroup interaction was not statistically significant (P = 0.06). We did not find evidence of a difference between groups for other outcomes in any subgroup.

Interpretation

Azithromycin may have some growth-promoting benefits for the highest risk infants, but we were unable to demonstrate a difference in most outcomes in low birthweight and underweight infants. As a secondary analysis of a trial, this study was underpowered for rare outcomes such as mortality.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03682653.
Multi-omic modeling of antidepressant response implicates dynamic immune and inflammatory changes in individuals who respond to treatment
Authors: Fuh Shih-Chieh , Fiori Laura M. , Turecki Gustavo , Nagy Corina , Li Yue
Published: May 2023

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide, and is commonly treated with antidepressant drugs (AD). Although effective, many patients fail to respond to AD treatment, and accordingly identifying factors that can predict AD response would greatly improve treatment outcomes. In this study, we developed a machine learning tool to integrate multi-omic datasets (gene expression, DNA methylation, and genotyping) to identify biomarker profiles associated with AD response in a cohort of individuals with MDD.

Materials and methods

Individuals with MDD (N = 111) were treated for 8 weeks with antidepressants and were separated into responders and non-responders based on the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Using peripheral blood samples, we performed RNA-sequencing, assessed DNA methylation using the Illumina EPIC array, and performed genotyping using the Illumina PsychArray. To address this rich multi-omic dataset with high dimensional features, we developed integrative Geneset-Embedded non-negative Matrix factorization (iGEM), a non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) based model, supplemented with auxiliary information regarding gene sets and gene-methylation relationships. In particular, we factorize the subjects by features (i.e., gene expression or DNA methylation) into subjects-by-factors and factors-by-features. We define the factors as the meta-phenotypes as they represent integrated composite scores of the molecular measurements for each subject.

Results

Using our model, we identified a number of meta-phenotypes which were related to AD response. By integrating geneset information into the model, we were able to relate these meta-phenotypes to biological processes, including a meta-phenotype related to immune and inflammatory functions as well as other genes related to depression or AD response. The meta-phenotype identified several genes including immune interleukin 1 receptor like 1 (IL1RL1) and interleukin 5 receptor (IL5) subunit alpha (IL5RA), AKT/PIK3 pathway related phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 6 (PIK3R6), and sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase 3 (SMPD3), which has been identified as a target of AD treatment.

Conclusions

The derived meta-phenotypes and associated biological functions represent both biomarkers to predict response, as well as potential new treatment targets. Our method is applicable to other diseases with multi-omic data, and the software is open source and available on Github (https://github.com/li-lab-mcgill/iGEM).
Validation and the associated factors of the Malay version of systemic lupus erythematosus-specific health-related quality of life questionnaires (SLEQoL and LupusQoL)
Authors: Ahmad Pouzi Nur Aqeelah , Shaharir Syahrul Sazliyana , Mohd Tamil Azmi , Mustafar Ruslinda , Ahmad Maulana Suhaida , Mageswaren Eashwary , Wan Ghazali Wan Syamimee
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To assess the reliability and validity of two disease-specific questionnaires that assess the quality of life (QoL) among patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE); SLEQoL and LupusQoL in Malay language. This study also identified the factors affecting each domain of the questionnaires.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2021 until April 2022, and SLE patients were recruited to complete the SLEQoL, LupusQoL and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) in Malay language. Disease activity were recorded using the modified SLE Disease Activity Index (M- SLEDAI) and British Isles Lupus Assessment Group 2004 (BILAG-2004) index. Presence of organ damage was determined using the SLICC Damage index. Cronbach’s alpha was calculated to determine internal consistency while exploratory factor analysis was done to determine the construct validity. Concurrent validity was evaluated using correlation with SF-36. Multiple linear regression analysis was deployed to determine the factors affecting each domain of SLEQoL and LupusQoL.

Results

A total of 125 subjects were recruited. The Cronbach’s α value for the Malay-SLEQoL (M-SLEQoL) and Malay-LupusQOL (M-LupusQoL) was 0.890 and 0.944 respectively. Exploratory factor analysis found formation of similar number of components with the original version of questionnaires and all items have good factor loading of >0.4. Both instruments also had good concurrent validity with SF-36. M-SLEQoL had good correlations with BILAG-2004 and M-SLEDAI scores. Musculoskeletal (MSK) involvement was independently associated with lower M-SLEQoL in physical function, activity and symptom domains. Meanwhile, MSK and NPSLE were associated with fatigue in M-LupusQoL.

Conclusion

Both M-SLEQoL and M-LupusQoL are reliable and valid as disease -specific QoL instruments for Malaysian patients. The M-Lupus QoL has better discriminative validity compared to the M-SLEQoL. SLE patients with MSK involvement are at risk of poor QoL in multiple domains including physical function, activity, symptoms and fatigue.
Insect phylogeny structures the bacterial communities in the microbiome of psyllids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Martoni Francesco , Bulman Simon R. , Piper Alexander M. , Pitman Andrew , Taylor Gary S. , Armstrong Karen F.
Published: May 2023

The bacterial microbiome of psyllids has been studied for decades, with a strong focus on the primary and secondary endosymbionts capable of providing essential amino acids for the insects’ diet and therefore playing a key role in the insects’ ability to radiate on novel plant hosts. Here, we combine metabarcoding analysis of the bacterial communities hosted by psyllids with a multi-gene phylogenetic analysis of the insect hosts to determine what factors influence the bacterial diversity of the psyllids’ microbiomes, especially in the context of the dispersal and evolutionary radiation of these insects in Aotearoa New Zealand. Using multi-gene phylogenetics with COI, 18S and EF-1α sequences from 102 psyllid species, we confirmed for the first time monophyly for all the six genera of native/endemic Aotearoa New Zealand psyllids, with indications that they derive from at least six dispersal events to the country. This also revealed that, after its ancestral arrival, the genus Powellia has radiated onto a larger and more diverse range of plants than either Psylla or Ctenarytaina, which is uncommon amongst monophyletic psyllids globally. DNA metabarcoding of the bacterial 16S gene here represents the largest dataset analysed to date from psyllids, including 246 individuals from 73 species. This provides novel evidence that bacterial diversity across psyllid species is strongly associated with psyllid phylogenetic structure, and to a lesser degree to their host plant association and geographic distribution. Furthermore, while the strongest co-phylogenetic signals were derived from the primary and secondary symbionts, a signal of phylosymbiosis was still retained among the remaining taxa of the bacterial microbiome, suggesting potential vertical transmission of bacterial lineages previously unknown to have symbiotic roles.