bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic Dilemma: Unusual Post-replacement Hip Pain Following Trauma Leading to Metallosis – A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, ESI PGIMSR, Basaidarapur, New Delhi, India,, Gupta Rajat , Rawat Sanjay Singh ,   Department of Orthopaedics, AIIMS Raebareli, Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Published: December 2024

ntroduction: Metallosis, characterized by the collection of metallic debris in periarticular tissues, is primarily associated with metal-on-metal bearings in hip arthroplasty. This report presents a rare case of metallosis after metal-on-polyethylene (MoP) total hip arthroplasty (THA), highlighting diagnostic challenges and management strategies. Metallosis following MoP arthroplasty is extremely rare, with only a limited number of documented cases in the literature.

Case Report: A 70-year-old man presented with post-traumatic hip pain and instability 6 years after an uncemented MoP THA. Radiographs revealed a fractured acetabular cup with metal fragments and displacement of the femoral head. A computed tomography scan confirmed liner failure, cup breakage, and radiodense opacities around the joint. Given the post-traumatic presentation and the risk of heterotopic ossification, the patient underwent revision surgery. Revision surgery involved acetabular component exchange, and clinical follow-up indicated satisfactory outcomes.

Conclusion: This case highlights the atypical presentation of metallosis following MoP THA, emphasizing the significance of early diagnosis and awareness for optimal patient outcomes.

Keywords: Metallosis, total hip arthroplasty, revision surgery, bearing surfaces.
Treatment and Rehabilitation of Complicated Fractures of Both Lower Limbs: A Case Report
Authors:   [1] Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sapporo Medical University, School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan, [2] Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sunagawa City Medical Center, Sunagawa, Japan., Fukushi Ryunosuke , Itabashi Takahide ,   [1] Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sapporo Medical University, School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan, [2] Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sunagawa City Medical Center, Sunagawa, Japan.
Published: December 2024

Background: Few studies have reported the treatment and rehabilitation of combined fractures of the femur, tibia, and ankle in the same lower limb.

Case Report: A 69-year-old man presented to our hospital with a fall injury due to high-energy trauma after falling from a 5 m ladder while painting and landing on both feet. Examination revealed right femoral supracondylar; left tibial plateau; right calcaneal; left ankle crush; first and third lumbar vertebrae burst; sacral; C7, Th1, and Th9 compression; and bilateral acetabular fractures. External fixation of both femurs and tibias was performed on the day of injury. After the patient’s general condition had stabilized, a two-stage operation was performed on the 8th day after injury for osteosynthesis of the left tibial plateau and right calcaneus fractures and ilizarov fixation of the left ankle crush fractures. In addition, the right femoral supracondylar fracture underwent osteosynthesis on day 15 after the injury, while the burst fractures of the first and third lumbar vertebrae underwent posterior fixation on day 24. The sacral fracture; C7, Th1, and Th9 compression fractures; and acetabular fractures were treated conservatively with a brace and no weight-bearing until the ilizarov apparatus was removed and gait training started. The ilizarov apparatus was removed 90 days after application. Mild passive and active assist rehabilitation on both toes and knees was started the day after the injury. Wheelchair transfer training was started 51 days after the injury. On day 60, trunk stability and swaying were eliminated and strength training in the sitting position was started. On day 107, the patient transferred without assistance (supervised). On day 121, weight-bearing and short-term standing training (right lower limb only) was started. On day 141, weight-bearing on both lower limbs was started. On day 148, the patient walked approximately 100 m using a walking aid. On day 176, the patient walked twice on parallel bars and 4 m with Lofstrand coupling while wearing a patellar-tendon-bearing orthosis. At 212 weeks, the patient walked long distances and use the Lofstrand for 100 m. The patient could also change direction smoothly.

Conclusion: This study reports the treatment and rehabilitation of an elderly patient with bilateral compound fractures of the lower leg. The patient underwent long-term rehabilitation on the floor using the ilizarov method; however, with appropriate rehabilitation, he recovered to the point where he could walk.

Keywords: Rehabilitation, bilateral, fractures, lower leg, ilizarov.
Lateral Meniscal Tears Can be Safely Repaired “All-Inside” Without Peroneal Nerve Injury: Case Series and Literature Review
Authors:   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA,, Lassiter Eric M , Farmer N Chase ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA,, Lee Anderson ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA,, Mustapha Rayanne ,   Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, USA., Yatsonsky David ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA,, Sohn David ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, USA,
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The menisci are a pair of fibrocartilaginous structures important for the normal biomechanical function of the knees. Tears are common, and multiple approaches have been used to repair meniscal tears. Of the approaches, the all-inside approach has historically been avoided for tears to the posterior aspect of the lateral meniscus (LM) due to the risk of popliteal and common peroneal neurovascular injury.

Case Report: We reviewed the electronic medical records of all patients who underwent all-inside LM repair by our senior author from August 2022 through August 2023. Demographic, injury, and surgical data were collected to characterize surgical success and any complications attributed to the surgical approach. A literature review of MEDLINE was performed to investigate the current data regarding the all-inside approach and identify methods for improving safety and efficacy. Two cases were identified (one male and one female) who underwent all inside repair of the LM. No surgical complications were attributed to suture selection or placement, and no damage to the popliteal neurovascular structures was identified.

Conclusion: The all-inside approach is a safe arthroscopic approach for the repair of the LM. The current literature demonstrates multiple considerations and guidelines to mitigate the risk of neurovascular injury and supports the efficacy of the all-inside approach when compared to other surgical approaches.

Keywords: Lateral meniscus, all-inside approach, peroneal nerve, popliteal artery, arthroscopy.
Revolutionizing Limb Preservation: A Case Report on Recurrent Fungating Giant Cell Tumor with Encased Radial Artery in the Distal Radius
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India., Kishor Kamal , Jyoti Nitish Jagdish ,   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India., Kapoor Love ,   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India., Kumar Venkatesan Sampath ,   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India., Ansari Tahir ,   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India., Khan Shah Alam ,   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Giant cell tumor (GCT) of the bone, although benign, poses significant challenges due to its locally aggressive nature and high recurrence rates post-surgical intervention. Among skeletal GCTs, those affecting the distal radius present unique difficulties, especially when fungating masses encase vital structures such as blood vessels.

Case Report: We present a case of a 28-year-old male with a recurring GCT of the distal radius, where limb-preserving surgery was successfully performed despite encasement of the radial artery. Surgical excision followed by wrist arthrodesis utilizing ulnar centralization resulted in satisfactory outcomes, emphasizing the importance of tailored surgical approaches for optimal functional preservation. Despite encountering local recurrence, subsequent excision and reconstruction utilizing vacuum-assisted closure and skin grafting achieved successful limb salvage with no evidence of further recurrence at the 18-month follow-up.

Conclusion: This case study contributes valuable insights into rare limb salvage techniques applicable to challenging GCT presentations, advocating for personalized treatment strategies to mitigate recurrence risk and preserve patient quality of life.

Keywords: Fungation, limb-salvage, recurrence local, distal end radius, giant-cell tumor.
Atraumatic Painful Pseudotendon of Flexor Carpi Radialis: A Literature Review and Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Allegheny General Hospital, United States,, Hammarstedt Jon E , Hogan William B ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, United States., Chang Jaewon ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Allegheny General Hospital, United States,, Slifer Damian ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Allegheny General Hospital, United States,, Regal Steven ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Allegheny General Hospital, United States,
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Rupture of the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) tendon is a rare phenomenon that is often described in the setting of rheumatoid arthritis or following trauma. Pseudotendon formation is seen commonly among extensor tendons of the antebrachium, typically as a sequelae of traumatic injury, spontaneous rupture in rheumatism, or postoperatively. Less frequent is the presence of pseudotendon in flexor tendons of the forearm. The development of a pseudotendon tends to result from the preservation of the tendon sheath with subsequent fibroblast proliferation. This results in a functionally deficient structure, often incapable of effective tension resistance.

Case Report: We present a case of painful pseudotendon of the FCR in a patient with no identifiable common risk factors. A partial tear was identified on magnetic resonance imaging at the level of radiocarpal articulation and the patient was treated with debridement of tenosynovium and excision of the FCR tendon. The patient subsequently achieved 100% pain relief at 3 months follow-up with complete preservation of sensory and motor function and strength, and no functional complaints. We discuss the etiology of painful pseudotendon of the FCR and discuss relevant literature.

Conclusion: The significance of this report stems from the evidence that pseudotendon may form through non-classical pathways idiopathically. Our case demonstrated successful removal of tenosynovium, the pseudotendon sheath and FCR tenotomy is safe, effective, and demonstrates minimal clinical deficits.

Keywords: Pseudotendon, flexor carpi radialis, volar wrist pain.
A Study on Outcome of Conservative Management of Shaft Humerus Fracture: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopedics, Apollo Hospital,New Delhi, India,, Gupta Tushar , Shamim Sharib ,   Department of Orthopedics, Era Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India,, Ahmed Afroz ,   Department of Orthopedics, Era Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India,, Gupta Vipin ,   Department of Orthopedics, Era Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India,, Mazumdar Gourav ,   Department of Orthopaedic, Deen Dayal Upadhyay hospital,New Delhi, India., Baish Akansha ,   Department of Orthopedics, Apollo Hospital,New Delhi, India,
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Conservative or surgical treatment options are available for humeral shaft fractures. To pinpoint individuals who would benefit from early surgical fixation, fracture characteristics were examined. In conservative treatment, the “U” slab prevents displacement, and overriding is corrected by gravity while the patient continues to move about. Rotation is prohibited for 14 days by holding the arm immobile to the chest with the elbow flexed. The preferred course of treatment for fractures of the humeral shaft at all levels is the hanging cast.

Materials and Methods: This study was conducted at Eras Lucknow Medical College and Hospital. Forty patients with Humerus shaft fractures (HSF) who met the inclusion criteria and presented in casualty or outpatient department participated in the study. This prospective cross-sectional study was of 24 months duration. Statistical analysis: Descriptive statistical analysis was performed to calculate the mean with corresponding standard deviations (s.d.). Test of proportion was used to find the standard normal deviate (Z) to compare the difference.

Results: The ratio of male and female (Male: Female) was 3:1. Test of proportion showed that the proportion of males (75.0%) was significantly higher than that of females (25.0%) (Z = 7.07; P < 0.001). Thus, in this study, the males were at higher risk of having fracture shaft of humerus than females. Right-sided fractures (57.5%) were significantly higher than left-sided fractures (42.5%) (Z = 2.12; P = 0.034). About 72.5% of the patients were with disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score between 14 and 16 which was significantly higher than other DASH scores (Z = 3.30; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion: Our observation regarding this study is that conservative management of HSF can be opted as the most effective way of treatment, and any complications due to any untoward event during the operative treatment should be limited.

Keywords: Humerus, displacement, fractures.
Fourier coupled modal method for parallel modal analysis of photonic structures
Authors: Lee Jonghyun , Choi Myeonggyu , Jeong Sehyeon , Park Shin-Woong , Kim Hwi
Published: December 2024

We present the Fourier coupled modal method (FCMM) as a solution for large-scale photonic structure analysis, emphasizing its inherent parallelism, facilitated by spatial partitioning and Fourier modal field computation. The parallelism of the FCMM is achieved by integrating the coupled mode theory (CMT) within the Fourier modal method (FMM). The proposed numerical framework of the FCMM is detailed and validated through a comparative study with the conventional FMM.
Single-shot x-ray ptychography as a structured illumination method
Authors: Levitan Abraham , Wakonig Klaus , Gao Zirui , Kubec Adam , Kuan Chen Bing , Cohen Oren , Guizar-Sicairos Manuel
Published: December 2024

Single-shot ptychography is a quantitative phase imaging method wherein overlapping beams of light arranged in a grid pattern simultaneously illuminate a sample, allowing a full ptychographic dataset to be collected in a single shot. It is primarily used at optical wavelengths, but there is interest in using it for x-ray imaging. However, constraints imposed by x-ray optics have limited the resolution achievable to date. In this work, we reinterpret single-shot ptychography as a structured illumination method by viewing the grid of beams as a single, highly structured illumination function. Pre-calibrating this illumination and reconstructing single-shot data using the randomized probe imaging algorithm allows us to account for the overlap and coherent interference between the diffraction arising from each beam. We achieve a resolution 3.5 times finer than the numerical aperture-based limit imposed by traditional algorithms for single-shot ptychography. We argue that this reconstruction method will work better for most single-shot ptychography experiments and discuss the implications for the design of future single-shot x-ray microscopes.
OneNet—One network to rule them all: Consensus network inference from microbiome data
Authors: Champion Camille , Momal Raphaëlle , Le Chatelier Emmanuelle , Sola Mathilde , Mariadassou Mahendra , Berland Magali
Published: December 2024

Modeling microbial interactions as sparse and reproducible networks is a major challenge in microbial ecology. Direct interactions between the microbial species of a biome can help to understand the mechanisms through which microbial communities influence the system. Most state-of-the art methods reconstruct networks from abundance data using Gaussian Graphical Models, for which several statistically grounded and computationnally efficient inference approaches are available. However, the multiplicity of existing methods, when applied to the same dataset, generates very different networks. In this article, we present OneNet, a consensus network inference method that combines seven methods based on stability selection. This resampling procedure is used to tune a regularization parameter by computing how often edges are selected in the networks. We modified the stability selection framework to use edge selection frequencies directly and combine them in the inferred network to ensure that only reproducible edges are included in the consensus. We demonstrated on synthetic data that our method generally led to slightly sparser networks while achieving much higher precision than any single method. We further applied the method to gut microbiome data from liver-cirrothic patients and demonstrated that the resulting network exhibited a microbial guild that was meaningful in terms of human health.
Barriers and facilitators for the use of telehealth by healthcare providers in India—A systematic review
Authors: Sharma Parth , Rao Shirish , Krishna Kumar Padmavathy , R. Nair Aiswarya , Agrawal Disha , Zadey Siddhesh , Surendran Gayathri , George Joseph Rachna , Dayma Girish , Rafeekh Liya , Saha Shubhashis , Sharma Sitanshi , Prakash S. S. , Sankarapandian Venkatesan , John Preethi , Patel Vikram
Published: December 2024

It is widely assumed that telehealth tools like mHealth (mobile health), telemedicine, and tele-education can supplement the efficiency of Healthcare Providers (HCPs). We conducted a systematic review of evidence on the barriers and facilitators associated with the use of telehealth by HCPs in India. A systematic literature search following a pre-registered protocol (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/KQ3U9 [PROTOCOL DOI]) was conducted on PubMed. The search strategy, inclusion, and exclusion criteria were based on the World Health Organization’s action framework on Human Resources for Health (HRH) and Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in India with a specific focus on telehealth tools. Eligible articles published in English from 1st January 2001 to 17th February 2022 were included. One hundred and six studies were included in the review. Of these, 53 studies (50%) involved mHealth interventions, 25 (23.6%) involved telemedicine interventions whereas the remaining 28 (26.4%) involved the use of tele-education interventions by HCPs in India. In each category, most of the studies followed a quantitative study design and were mostly published in the last 5 years. The study sites were more commonly present in states in south India. The facilitators and barriers related to each type of intervention were analyzed under the following sub-headings- 1) Human resource related, 2) Application related 3) Technical, and 4) Others. The interventions were most commonly used for improving the management of mental health, non-communicable diseases, and maternal and child health. The use of telehealth has not been uniformly studied in India. The facilitators and barriers to telehealth use need to be kept in mind while designing the intervention. Future studies should focus on looking at region-specific, intervention-specific, and health cadre-specific barriers and facilitators for the use of telehealth.
Phytotoxicity risk assessment of diuron residues in sands on wheat, chickpea, and canola
Authors: Pyone Win Win , Bell Richard W. , Rose Michael T. , McGrath Gavan
Published: December 2024

While diuron residues are being detected more frequently in agricultural soils, there is limited information available regarding their potential phytotoxicity to non-target grain crops. This study aims to determine robust phytotoxicity thresholds for three common, but contrasting, crop species (canola, chickpea, and wheat) exposed to a range of diuron concentrations and to determine how loamy sand soil can change the toxicity thresholds relative to an inert sand. The log-logistic non-linear regression model proved most effective in determining toxicity thresholds by analysing crop responses to diuron. Canola was the most sensitive to diuron in sand followed by wheat and chickpea. Diuron exhibits higher phytotoxicity in sand compared to loamy sand, with ED50 values (which is the dose at which diuron causes a 50% decrease in plant growth) of 0.03 mg kg-1 and 0.07 mg kg-1 for canola shoot biomass inhibition and 0.01 mg kg-1 and 0.06 mg kg-1 for root dry weight reduction, respectively. The ED50 values for wheat shoot biomass (0.11 and 0.24 mg kg-1) in sand and loamy sand, respectively, and the ED50 values for root growth inhibition are 0.14 mg kg-1 in sand and 0.19 mg kg-1 in loamy sand. These values were lower than label concentrations and previously estimated average and maximum diuron residue loads (0.17 and 0.29 mg kg-1) in Western Australia paddocks. The larger ED50 values of diuron in the loamy sand can be attributed to higher soil organic matter and cation exchange capacity that decreased bio-available diuron levels. Average diuron residue loads in Western Australia crop fields exceed the ED50 value emphasizes the need for careful planning of crop rotations to avoid crop phytotoxicity from soil-borne diuron residues. Further study is needed to determine the effect of a wider range of soil properties such as pH, clay content, and soil organic matter on the phytotoxicity risk of diuron to rotational crops.
Beyond words: Relationships between emoji use, attachment style, and emotional intelligence
Authors: Dubé Simon , Gesselman Amanda N. , Kaufman Ellen M. , Bennett-Brown Margaret , Ta-Johnson Vivian P. , Garcia Justin R.
Published: December 2024

Assessing the relationships between emoji use and traits related to communication and interpersonal skills can provide insights into who employs emojis and the psychological mechanisms underlying computer-mediated communications. This online study investigated associations between emoji use frequency, attachment style, and emotional intelligence across genders and relationship types in a Mechanical Turk sample of 320 adults (≥18y; 191 women, 123 men, and 4 transgender individuals). Correlational analyses showed that emotional intelligence was positively related to emoji use with friends, while avoidant attachment was negatively related to emoji use with friends and dating or romantic partners. This pattern of associations varied across genders and relationship types, with women using emojis more frequently than men with friends and family. Such findings suggest that individuals higher on emotional intelligence with secure attachment may employ emojis more frequently across contexts where more conventional non-verbal cues are lacking. These findings are important given the prevalence of virtual communications in our everyday lives.
Can agricultural technological progress promote China’s interprovincial rural revitalization? an analytical perspective based on agricultural-scale operations
Authors: Wang Fei , Xue Dong , Yang Zheyi
Published: December 2024

To clarify the role of agricultural technological progress in the process of rural revitalization, this paper uses the agricultural panel data of 31 provinces in China from 2007 to 2020 to measure the Total Factor Productivity of agriculture, analyzes the impact direction and spatial spillover effect of agricultural technological progress on China’s rural revitalization through the spatial Durbin model, and analyzes the threshold mechanism of agricultural technological progress on China’s rural revitalization by using the panel threshold model. The results are as follows: (1) The spatial and geographical agglomeration of interprovincial rural revitalization in China has gradually weakened, and the regional imbalance has improved; (2) The progress in agricultural technology plays a positive role in promoting China’s interprovincial rural revitalization, and the overall nonlinear characteristics of "first inhibiting and then promoting" are presented, and the conclusion is still robust after fully considering the factors of time, region and economic distance; (3) Further analysis shows that the impact of agricultural technological progress on China’s interprovincial rural revitalization is based on the threshold constraints of land-scale operation and agricultural-industry agglomeration, and shows significant spatial heterogeneity. The inherent reason is that whether the land-scale operation entity adopts long-term investment decisions such as new agricultural technology depends on the expectation of land management risk stability, while agricultural-industry agglomeration hinders the diffusion and spillover of agricultural technology due to the exclusive characteristics of agricultural production geographical locations. Therefore, in the future of China’s rural revitalization, the government should guide the large-scale operation of land and agricultural production according to local conditions to give full play to the positive spillover effect and spatial radiation capacity of agricultural technology.
Enhancing urban traffic management through shared autonomous electric vehicles and dynamic simulation
Authors: Ma Jingfa , Liu Hu , Chen Lingxiao
Published: December 2024

In the face of rapid urbanization and the increasing number of vehicles, urban centers are struggling with traffic congestion. This study presents a dynamic travel strategy using the MATSim platform to schedule urban travel, incorporating a model for shared autonomous electric vehicles. The model is evaluated using a baseline scenario for Shanghai, exploring the effects of vehicle range, charging capabilities, and power supply strategies on the uptake of shared autonomous electric vehicles. Results indicate that enhancements in vehicle range and charging efficiency slightly decrease the use of autonomous vehicles by 2.5%, as the existing vehicle specifications already meet daily travel needs in Shanghai. Additionally, the transition from traditional charging stations to a battery-swapping system does not significantly alter overall travel behavior of shared autonomous electric vehicles. These findings provide insights into the deployment of intelligent traffic systems to alleviate urban traffic congestion.
Prevalence of suicidal ideation among married and cohabiting women in Sri Lanka: An analysis of the Sri Lanka Women’s Well-being Survey 2019
Authors: Thabrew K. A. S. , Ariyasena K. D. C. , Sandarapperuma S. A. H. M. , Weerasekara R. M. K. P. , Munasinghe M. T. S. , Ranamukhaarachchi S. L. , Wijayabandara G. D. V. D.
Published: December 2024

This study utilized the 2019 Women’s Wellbeing Survey conducted by the Department of Census and Statistics (DCS) in Sri Lanka to investigate the factors influencing suicidal ideation among married/cohabiting women. The study sample consists of secondary data from 1462 females, who were 15 years or older and currently married or living with a male partner, extracted from WWS 2019. Binary logistic regression was employed to analyze the association between suicidal ideation in married/cohabiting women and various independent variables. Among the respondents, 13.2% of married/cohabiting women reported having suicidal thoughts. Several factors were found to increase the likelihood of such ideation: a partner’s extramarital affair, feelings of worthlessness and restlessness, partners consuming alcohol, experience of psychological violence and physical violence by the current partner, physical violence experienced since the age of 15, and childhood sexual violence. Conversely, lower odds of suicidal ideation were observed among women who married/cohabited between the ages of 20–29 compared to those in the 10–19 age category, and among unemployed women. This study emphasizes the urgency of addressing intimate partner violence, childhood sexual abuse, early marriages, and the mental well-being of vulnerable women, as these factors significantly impact their risk of life-threatening issues.
Design of multi-epitope-based therapeutic vaccine candidates from HBc and HBx proteins of hepatitis B virus using reverse vaccinology and immunoinformatics approaches
Authors: Naully Patricia Gita , Tan Marselina Irasonia , Nugrahapraja Husna , Artarini Aluicia Anita , Aditama Reza , Giri-Rachman Ernawati Arifin
Published: December 2024

The major problem in cases of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is the failure of the patient’s immune response to eliminate the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) minichromosome of hepatitis B virus (HBV). Epigenetic regulation involving the HBV core protein (HBc) and HBV X protein (HBx) influences the transcription and stability of the cccDNA minichromosome. The HBc and/or HBx-based therapeutic vaccines that have been developed cannot accommodate differences between HBV genotypes. This research aims to design a therapeutic vaccine candidate based on the multi-epitope of HBc and HBx using reverse vaccinology (RV) and immunoinformatics approach. HBc and HBx sequences from 10 HBV genotypes were obtained from the NCBI Entrez Protein database. Epitopes were predicted from consensus sequences, which consisted of 13,610 HBc sequences and 12,333 HBx sequences. The study identified four cytotoxic T lymphocyte epitopes, two helper T lymphocyte epitopes, and five linear B lymphocyte that met the inclusion criteria. The vaccine candidate designed using cholera toxin subunit B and pan HLA DR-binding epitope adjuvants was predicted to be safe, antigenic, stable, and has a global population coverage of 99.43%. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated that the vaccine candidate could stably bind to B cell receptor, cytotoxic T cell receptor, and TLR4 for 100 ns. Immune response simulation indicated that it can induce antibody production and the proliferation of B and T cells. It can be concluded that RV and immunoinformatics successfully facilitated the design of a multi-epitope therapeutic vaccine candidate for CHB.
Unraveling migratory corridors of loggerhead and green turtles from the Yucatán Peninsula and its overlap with bycatch zones of the Northwest Atlantic
Authors: Labastida-Estrada Elizabeth , Machkour-M’Rabet Salima
Published: December 2024

Bycatch represents a conservation problem when endangered species are affected. Sea turtles are highly vulnerable to this threat as their critical habitats overlap with fishing zones in all regions of the world. We used sequences of the mitochondrial DNA control region obtained from loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and green (Chelonia mydas) turtles to determine the migratory routes between nesting habitats in the Yucatán Peninsula and their critical marine habitats in the Northwest Atlantic. Mixed Stock Analysis revealed that loggerheads from Quintana Roo migrated to foraging areas in the northwestern Atlantic. Migratory routes used by green turtles are determined by their natal nesting colony: (1) green turtles from the Gulf of Mexico migrate to foraging aggregations in Texas and the northern Gulf of Mexico, (2) Mexican Caribbean turtles travel to foraging grounds in Florida, and (3) a smaller proportion of individuals born in the Yucatán Peninsula display a local connectivity pattern. Our results suggest that the migratory corridors used by Mexican loggerheads overlap with longline fisheries in the mid-Atlantic where sea turtle bycatch is comprised predominantly of immature individuals. Green turtles from the Yucatán Peninsula migrate to critical habitats that overlap with shrimp trawl fisheries within the Gulf of Mexico. Bycatch data and the identification of migratory corridors used by loggerheads and green turtles suggests that shrimp trawl fisheries on the east coast of the U.S. and the Gulf of Mexico pose a serious threat to the conservation and recovery of Mexican sea turtle populations.
Mechanisms of anti-predator behavior in the great ramshorn snail (Planorbarius corneus)
Authors: Talk Andrew , Vanatheeva Sajeevan
Published: December 2024

Like vertebrate animals, some invertebrates have been shown to exhibit fear- or anxiety-like behavior while in apparatus that allow choice between sheltered, darkened spaces and open, lit spaces. The behavioral mechanisms by which invertebrates accomplish this behavior, and whether those mechanisms are similar across species, has not been fully studied. Across three experiments, we investigated possible behaviors that Great Ramshorn snails (Planorbarius corneus) could use to accomplish fear behavior while in presence of the odor of a predatory fish. In experiment one, we used a light/dark preference box to demonstrate reduced preference for exposed and lit areas caused by the predator odor. In experiment two, we used an open field apparatus to demonstrate an increase in refuge-seeking (thigmotaxis, or time spent near a wall) in diffusely lit but not dark environments caused by predator odor. In the same experiment we found the snails were photokinetic (they moved faster in the light than in the dark) but we saw no effect of predator odor on photokinesis. In experiment three, we conducted a second open field study with a directional light source and found no evidence of phototaxis (movement direction with respect to light), and no effect of predator odor on phototaxis. Thus, in our studies we found evidence for refuge-seeking as a mechanism for fear-like behavior in the presence of predator odor and little evidence for perhaps more computationally simple strategies of increased photokinesis and phototaxis.
Hearing and cognitive decline in aging differentially impact neural tracking of context-supported versus random speech across linguistic timescales
Authors: Bolt Elena , Kliestenec Katarina , Giroud Nathalie
Published: December 2024

Cognitive decline and hearing loss are common in older adults and often co-occur while investigated separately, affecting the neural processing of speech. This study investigated the interaction between cognitive decline, hearing loss, and contextual cues in speech processing. Participants aged 60 years and older were assessed for cognitive decline using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and for hearing ability using a four-frequency pure tone average. They listened to in-house–designed matrix-style sentences that either provided supportive context or were random, while we recorded their electroencephalography. Neurophysiological responses were analyzed through auditory evoked potentials and speech tracking at different linguistic timescales (i.e., phrase, word, syllable and phoneme rate) using phase-locking values. The results showed that cognitive decline was associated with decreased response accuracy in a speech recognition task. Cognitive decline significantly impacted the P2 component of auditory evoked potentials, while hearing loss influenced speech tracking at the word and phoneme rates, but not at the phrase or syllable rates. Contextual cues enhanced speech tracking at the syllable rate. These findings suggest that cognitive decline and hearing loss differentially affect the neural mechanisms underlying speech processing, with contextual cues playing a significant role in enhancing syllable rate tracking. This study emphasises the importance of considering both cognitive and auditory factors when studying speech processing in older people and highlights the need for further research to investigate the interplay between cognitive decline, hearing loss and contextual cues in speech processing.
Identification and growth-promoting effect of Paecilomyces lilacinus a biocontrol fungi for walnut rot disease
Authors: Liu Zhi-Jin , Shan Lu-Lu , Chen Xiao-Fei
Published: December 2024

Cytospora chrysosperma is the primary pathogen responsible for walnut rot disease, affecting a wide variety of hosts. Currently, chemical agents, particularly agricultural Fungicides, are commonly utilized for the prevention and management of walnut rot. However, this practice has led to the development of drug-resistant pathogens, complicating disease control efforts. This study aimed to propose a safer and more efficient biocontrol strategy for combating walnut rot disease. The research focused on targeting C. chrysosperma, and through cross-confrontation methods, an antagonistic strain named Paecilomyces lilacinus 5–38 was isolated from walnut rhizosphere soil, exhibiting a significant inhibitory effect on C. chrysosperma with an inhibition rate of 78.71%. Results indicated that strain 5–38 not only demonstrated effective control but also displayed a broad-spectrum antifungal activity. The study also investigated the impact of different concentrations of antagonistic fermentation filtrate on C. chrysosperma mycelia, revealing a stronger inhibitory effect with increasing concentrations and a degree of thermal stability. Pot experiments demonstrated that a concentration of 150 mg/ml of antagonistic fermentation filtrate enhanced seed germination rates and various growth parameters of walnut seedlings, including seedling height, root length, root number, leaf area, and dry weight. Specifically, seedlings treated with P. lilacinus 5–38 showed significant increases of 30.12%, 33.89%, 81.89%, 6.83%, and 98.26% in these respective parameters. This study represents the first documentation of P. lilacinus as a promising biological agent for walnut rot control.
The association between changes in cerebral hemodynamics and cerebrovascular complications during ECMO treatment in neonates
Authors: Liu Jian-Feng , Liu Yi-Nan , Zeng Ya-Ting , Gao Zhe-Yuan , Cai Heng , Zheng Yi-Rong , Zhang Qi-Liang , Chen Qiang
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate whether changes in cerebrovascular hemodynamic parameters during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) treatment in neonates are associated with the occurrence of cerebrovascular complications.

Methods

This study selected neonatal patients who received ECMO treatment at a pediatric hospital in China from June 2021 to June 2024. Relevant clinical data were collected from the electronic medical record system. Data from cranial ultrasound examinations before and during ECMO treatment, as well as the occurrence of cerebrovascular complications, were collected for further analysis.

Results

A total of 37 neonates were enrolled in this study. Among them, 15 neonates who developed cerebrovascular complications during ECMO were included in the complication group, while the remaining 22 neonates were included in the non-complication group. The age difference between the two groups was statistically significant. The systolic blood pressure coefficient of variation (SBP-CV) and diastolic blood pressure CV (DBP-CV) were significantly higher in the complication group compared to the non-complication group. Additionally, the anterior cerebral artery peak systolic velocity CV (ACA-PSV-CV) and ACA resistance index CV (ACA-RI-CV) were significantly higher in the complication group than in the non-complication group. However, there was no significant difference in the ACA end-diastolic velocity CV (ACA-EDV-CV) between the two groups. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis of risk factors for cerebrovascular complications indicated that the area under the curve (AUC) for ACA-RI-CV was 0.765 (95% CI: 0.608–0.923, p = 0.007). The AUC for ACA-SBP-CV was 0.815 (95% CI: 0.666–0.964, p = 0.001). Moreover, when ACA-RI-CV and ACA-SBP-CV were combined, the AUC was 0.873 (95% CI: 0.758–0.988, p<0.001).

Conclusion

High ACA-RI-CV and ACA-SBP-CV were associated with the occurrence of cerebrovascular complications during ECMO treatment in neonates. The combined detection of ACA-RI-CV and ACA-SBP-CV had a predictive role in the early identification of cerebrovascular complications in neonatal ECMO patients.
Association between dental agenesis and facial morphology. A cross-sectional study in France
Authors: Brézulier Damien , Raimbault Pierre , Jeanne Sylvie , Davit-Béal Tiphaine , Cathelineau Guy
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Knowing the features of dental evolution and facial morphology, marked by an increase in the prevalence of agenesis and a tendency towards verticalization of the face, the main objective of this cross-sectional observational study was to assess the correlation between the occurrence of agenesis (of 3rd molars or other teeth) and facial morphology in the French population.

Methods

The study was conducted at the University Hospital of Rennes, France, from June 2022 to October 2022. Patients aged 12–18 years who underwent a global orthodontic assessment were included. Data collected from medical examinations, panoramic, anteroposterior, and lateral x-rays were analyzed for cephalometric and dental features. The association between morphological parameters and agenesis of wisdom teeth or other teeth was assessed by univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results

The study included 259 patients, of whom 89 presented agenesis. Logistic regression analyses identified several morphological parameters associated with agenesis. In the multivariate model, a negative correlation was found between tooth agenesis and FMA (OR = 0.85; p < 0. 001), facial axis (OR = 0.92; p = 0.040), and a positive one with SNB (OR = 1.17; p = 0.023), ANS-Xi-Pm (OR = 1.12; p = 0.013).

Conclusion

This study highlights the correlation between agenesis occurrence and specific cephalometric parameters in the French population. The findings suggest that transverse constriction of the maxilla, facial divergence, and anterior projection of the chin symphysis are associated with agenesis.

Trial registration number: Opinion n°22.103, dated 06.04.2022.
Assessment of the viability of photovoltaic system implementation on the New Media Tower of Universitas Multimedia Nusantara using PVSyst software: A feasibility study
Authors: Saputri Fahmy Rinanda , Robert Nicholas , Akbar Agie Maliki
Published: December 2024

The urgency of addressing climate change, exacerbated by greenhouse gas emissions, necessitates sustainable solutions, including green building practices and renewable energy adoption. This study focuses on the feasibility of implementing solar photovoltaic systems at Universitas Multimedia Nusantara (UMN), particularly in Building C, known as the New Media Tower, which is designed with green building principles. Solar energy, an increasingly prominent renewable source, presents a viable solution to reduce carbon footprints. Before installation, thorough simulations using software like PVSyst are essential to predict energy output and evaluate system efficiency. Several studies have explored PV system feasibility using simulations, highlighting the importance of software selection for accurate assessments. Building C offers potential locations for PV installation, with the rooftop being a primary consideration due to its expansive area and minimal shading. The rooftop PV system simulation shows an annual energy production of 202 MWh, close to the target of 209.64 MWh, while the parking area system only generates 64.5 MWh/year. Technical evaluations reveal that only the rooftop PV system meets electricity generation targets, highlighting its superiority over the parking area system. Financial analysis demonstrates the rooftop system’s viability, with a payback period of 8.2 years and a return on investment (ROI) of 115.8%. Although the upfront investment is substantial, the long-term benefits justify implementation. Overall, this study underscores the technical and financial feasibility of rooftop photovoltaic systems on Building C at UMN, offering valuable insights for sustainable energy initiatives in academic institutions.
Plantar sensory stimulation and its impact on gait and lower limb motor function in individuals with stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ahmad Adamu Adamu , Suriyaamarit Duangporn , Siriphorn Akkradate
Published: December 2024

Background

Stroke frequently leads to motor impairments, with almost half of the affected individuals experiencing diminished sensation, impacting their overall quality of life and autonomy. Rehabilitation efforts, however, often overlook somatosensory functions of the lower limbs. While plantar sensory stimulation activates receptors in the foot sole, its precise impact on the motor functions and gait of individuals with stroke is yet to be ascertained.

Objectives

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the effects of sensory interventions on gait and lower limb motor function in individuals with stroke.

Methods

We searched eight databases from inception to December 2023 for randomized controlled trials that investigated sensory interventions targeting gait or lower limb motor function in stroke patients. The primary outcomes included changes in gait and motor function, reported as standardized mean differences (SMD) and assessed heterogeneity (I2).

Results

A total of [number] studies were included, covering different sensory modalities such as textured insoles, plantar vibration, and cognitive sensorimotor exercises. The interventions showed varying effectiveness, with plantar vibration therapy exhibiting a large effect size (SMD = 2.03 [1.13, 2.94]) for improving lower limb motor function, while textured insoles showed moderate effectiveness (SMD = 0.58 [0.24, 0.92]) with no heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). For gait, significant enhancement was seen with plantar vibration (SMD = 3.17 [2.05, 4.29]) and cognitive sensorimotor training (SMD = 2.85 [1.69, 4.02]). However, overall heterogeneity was moderate to high (I2 = 65% for motor function, 85% for gait), indicating variability across different studies and intervention types.

Conclusion

The findings of this review and meta-analysis suggest that plantar somatosensory stimulation has the potential to improve lower limb motor function and gait in people with stroke. However, to firmly establish its efficacy as a rehabilitative tool, larger-scale and high-quality studies are requisite.
Cultural, social, and economic influences on academic field choice among Jewish and Muslim students
Authors: Zouari Michael , Shtudiner Zeev
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the complex cultural, social, and economic factors influencing the choice of academic field among Jewish and Muslim students in Israeli higher education. By employing a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and conjoint analysis, this research revealed significant differences between the two groups. Our findings indicate that Muslim students exhibit significantly higher levels of individualism compared to Jewish students, as measured by the individualism scale. They also place greater importance on prior work experience and teacher influence when choosing a field of study. In contrast, Jewish students prioritize earning potential. The findings underscore the need for culturally responsive educational policies and support systems that cater to the diverse needs and aspirations of students from different socio-cultural backgrounds. This study contributes to understanding the multifaceted dynamics shaping educational choices in multicultural societies and highlights the importance of fostering inclusive learning environments. Future research should include additional ethnic groups and explore the long-term impact of educational pathways on social and economic mobility.