bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanistic insights from animal models of neurofibromatosis type 1 cognitive impairment
Authors: Miller Andrew H. , Halloran Mary C.
Published: August 2022

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal-dominant neurogenetic disorder caused by mutations in the gene neurofibromin 1 (NF1). NF1 predisposes individuals to a variety of symptoms, including peripheral nerve tumors, brain tumors and cognitive dysfunction. Cognitive deficits can negatively impact patient quality of life, especially the social and academic development of children. The neurofibromin protein influences neural circuits via diverse cellular signaling pathways, including through RAS, cAMP and dopamine signaling. Although animal models have been useful in identifying cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate NF1-dependent behaviors, translating these discoveries into effective treatments has proven difficult. Clinical trials measuring cognitive outcomes in patients with NF1 have mainly targeted RAS signaling but, unfortunately, resulted in limited success. In this Review, we provide an overview of the structure and function of neurofibromin, and evaluate several cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neurofibromin-dependent cognitive function, which have recently been delineated in animal models. A better understanding of neurofibromin roles in the development and function of the nervous system will be crucial for identifying new therapeutic targets for the various cognitive domains affected by NF1.
Modelling infectious disease to support human health
Authors: Tobin David M.
Published: August 2022

During the current COVID-19 pandemic, there has been renewed scientific and public focus on understanding the pathogenesis of infectious diseases and investigating vaccines and therapies to combat them. In addition to the tragic toll of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), we also recognize increased threats from antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, the effects of climate change on the prevalence and spread of human pathogens, and the recalcitrance of other infectious diseases – including tuberculosis, malaria, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and fungal infections – that continue to cause millions of deaths annually. Large amounts of funding have rightly been redirected toward vaccine development and clinical trials for COVID-19, but we must continue to pursue fundamental and translational research on other pathogens and host immunity. Now more than ever, we need to support the next generation of researchers to develop and utilize models of infectious disease that serve as engines of discovery, innovation and therapy.
Fabrication of TiN-Based Superhydrophobic Anti-Corrosion Coating by Inverse Vulcanization
Authors: Miao Congcong , Yan Peiyao , Liu Haichao , Cai Shanshan (Diana) , Dodd Liam J , Wang Haoran , Deng Xi , Li Jian , Wang Xi-Cun , Hu Xiaolin , Wu Xiaofeng , Hasell Tom , Quan Zheng-Jun
Published: August 2022

Sulfur-rich polymers prepared by inverse vulcanization (IV), as a new chemistry and polymerization technique, have attracted increasing attention since their invention in 2013. Although extensive research has been devoted to IV, there is still huge scope for advance, particularly in terms of the practical applications of the resultant polymers. Previously SiO2-embedded sulfur-rich polymers from IV were reported as superhydrophobic, antibacterial and anti-corrosion coating materials. We report herein the improved properties of superhydrophobic and anti-corrosion functional materials prepared by embedding more hydrophobic TiN nanoparticles into sulfur-rich polymers. This method provides fluoride-free composite materials, which is important considering the possible hazard to humans and the environment and concerns of fluorine-containing olefins with long carbon chains. Static water contact angles (WCA) of up to 173.6 ± 1.1° as well as superior properties such as higher superhydrophobicity and anti-corrosion (97.2% coating protection rate) are achieved. The generated coating has good to excellent self-cleaning functions. This protocol not only improves the superhydrophobicity of the synthesized composites, but also provides a feasible method for the preparation of non-harmful and environmentally benign fluorine-free superhydrophobic anti-corrosion materials applied in marine industries.
Zalety i wady nauczania zdalnego w czasie pandemii COVID-19 w opinii nauczycieli szkół w województwie wielkopolskim
Authors: Weltrowska Justyna , Bogacka Emilia , Hauke Jan , Tobolska Anna
Published: August 2022

Distance learning in all types of schools from March 2020 to the beginning of June 2021 (with a short break in September 2020) was forced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously, in Poland, this form of teaching was used sporadically, basically only for extra-curricular activities. The vast majority of teachers did not have any experience in this field. The large-scale introduction of new forms of distance learning and knowledge transfer and enforcement methods created a number of challenges and opened up new opportunities. The presented study attempts to identify the advantages and disadvantages of distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic in the opinion of primary and secondary school teachers in the Wielkopolska region. The analysis was carried out based on empirical material obtained from questionnaires addressed to all teachers from the Wielkopolska region (703 questionnaires were received). The survey results allowed the diagnosis of positive and negative aspects of distance learning. Among advantages, teachers pointed to growing computer competencies and time and money savings due to no need to travel to work. In turn, as disadvantages were demonstrated, the lowering of teaching quality because of the lack of direct contact with pupils and health problems resulting from decreased physical activity and long-term staying at the computer desk. The teachers’ experience in identifying the advantages and disadvantages of distance learning is undoubtedly an excellent and reliable source of information that can be used in the future to improve the distance learning process. The applied approach allowed to obtain representative results, which may transpose into generalizations on the scale of the entire country.
Materialne dziedzictwo kulturowe polsko-niemieckiego obszaru przygranicznego – geneza, stan i perspektywy. Studium przypadku Ziemi Lubuskiej
Authors: Dolata Michał
Published: August 2022

The article is part of the current scientific considerations on material cultural heritage from the perspective of historical geography. This approach means focusing on the historical dimension of the contemporary world and on identifying the influence of the former spatial organization of a given area on its current features. The main goal of the article is to analyze the present condition of the most important elements of the immovable material cultural heritage of the Polish-German border area, focusing on the case study of Lubusz Land. This analysis is preceded by a discussion of the origins and typical features of individual heritage elements in the research area, and concludes with an attempt to define the perspectives for these components in terms of their social perception, protection and role in the development of contemporary spatial structures and the preservation of their historic character. The research in the scope specified above was carried out with the use of the methodological apparatus of history and socio-economic geography, including the philological, genetic and retrogressive methods as well as visual field analysis, mathematical and statistical methods and the cartographic presentation of phenomena. The conducted analysis allowed the formulation of conclusions about the quantitative and structural richness of the cultural heritage in the Polish-German border area, which in the genetic aspect is primarily related to the period of domination of German culture in the past centuries. However, the physical condition of this heritage is actually critical due to the impact of economic, legal and property, and institutional factors as well as those related to awareness that were liberated as a result of the collapse of the German state in its shape before 1945, the events of World War II, and radical political, social and economic changes in the post-war period. The post-socialist systemic transformation, initiated in Poland and East Germany in 1990, did not bring about any fundamental positive changes regarding the determinants and factors shaping the fate of the immovable material cultural heritage of the Polish-German border area. This conclusion applies especially to the eastern (Polish) part of this area. Negative tendencies are continued.
Η οικογένεια στα σχολικά εγχειρίδια των Κειμένων Νεοελληνικής Λογοτεχνίας του Γυμνασίου
Authors: Μπακογλίδου Τριανταφυλλιά
Published: August 2022

Σκοπός της διατριβής ήταν η μελέτη του θεσμού της οικογένειας, τις μορφές της, τις λειτουργίες της, αλλά και τις επιδράσεις της στον άνθρωπο. Εξετάσαμε τον όρο οικογένεια, τη δομή και τις λειτουργίας αυτής. Επίσης, παρουσιάσαμε τις μορφές της οικογένειας στο χρόνο καθώς έγινε η κατηγοριοποίηση των μορφών αυτών αποσαφηνίζοντας τα μέλη το κάθε ένα ξεχωριστά. Ακόμη, μελετήθηκε η οικογένεια στη διδασκαλία και τη ζωή της ορθόδοξης καθολικής εκκλησίας. Παρουσιάστηκε η οικογένεια από τη Παλαιά Διαθήκη μέχρι την Καινή Διαθήκη. Ακόμη, καταγράφηκε η ψυχοπαιδαγωγική θεώρηση της οικογένειας ως φορέα διαπαιδαγώγησης των παιδιών. Στη συνέχεια, μελετήθηκαν τα προγράμματα σπουδών και τα σχολικά εγχειρίδια του γυμνασίου του μαθήματος Κείμενα Νεοελληνικής Λογοτεχνίας. Καταγράφηκε ο σκοπός της διδασκαλίας της λογοτεχνίας και μέσω τον προγραμμάτων αυτών προβλήθηκε η έννοια της οικογένειας μέσα από τα σχολικά εγχειρίδια στα οποία εντοπίζεται ο όρος. Τέλος στο δεύτερο μέρος της διατριβής προβλήθηκε η η έρευνα, η οποία αφορά στα τα σχολικά εγχειρίδια του Γυμνασίου των Κειμένων Νεοελληνικής Λογοτεχνίας.
Constantinos Anninos between India and Greece
Authors: Ioannidis Kostas
Published: August 2022

The case of the hitherto unnoticed amateur photographer Constantinos Anninos, who was active in Greece and India during the first quarter of the twentieth century, seems particularly interesting for examining the theory and practice of the representation of ethnographic subjects in different media. Always on the move between Greece, India and England, Anninos was an accomplished photographer and a rather gifted writer in Greek demotic who wrote about his photographs in Skokos’ Ethnikon Imerologion. Because of the precariousness of his position, he seems to have struggled with the problem of foreignness all of his life. Through images and texts, he attempts to translate not only the culture of India but that of Greece as well to people who, due to either actual distance or psychological and cultural barriers, are removed from what he perceives as the essence of Greece or India. Finally, I argue that for similar reasons photography and demotic prove pertinent to accomplishing this task of cultural translation.
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Leonidas Moiras, Η ελληνική Επανάσταση μέσα από τα μάτια των Οθωμανών
Authors: Spyropoulos Yannis
Published: August 2022

Review of Leonidas Moiras, Η ελληνική Επανάσταση μέσα από τα μάτια των Οθωμανών [The Greek Revolution through Ottoman eyes]. Athens: Topos, 2020. 232 pp.
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Five Years of Voluntary Refugee Aid in Germany
Authors: Bräuer Kim
Published: August 2022

This article examines voluntary refugee aid from 2015 to 2020, investigating the extent to which volunteers and refugee aid recipients have related their perceptions and emotional interpretations to the welcoming discourse and the local organisation of voluntary refugee aid. The analysis was based on contrasting sample of interviews and newspaper articles and includes a comparison of the politicised metropolitan refugee aid in Berlin with traditional charity-based aid in Braunschweig. It becomes evident that the emotional perceptions of volunteers differ depending on their reason for helping and their previous experiences. In addition, the article suggests that the recipients of refugee aid, most notably shortly after their arrival, do not refer to the welcoming discourse but instead to their own experiences or those of their acquaintances.

Combining the concepts of governmentality and performativity, I use a critical perspective on power and add an affect-theoretical level in the sense of immersive power. This theoretical view raises awareness of the significance of affects and emotions in voluntary refugee aid.

Overall, the stance of the article shifts. It sees refugees not only as persons in need of help but contrasts this image with the potential they offer. It takes a critical look at the last five years of voluntary refugee aid and considers the implications for voluntary refugee aid if, indeed, emotions are as significant as they appear in the article.

* This article belongs to a special issue on "Refugee Migration to Europe – Challenges and Potentials for Cities and Regions".
Konspiracyjne organizacje młodzieżowe jako forma opozycji politycznej w systemie monocentrycznym – próba interpretacji
Authors: Wołoszyn Jacek
Published: August 2022

Ustrój „Polski Ludowej” mieścił się w zaproponowanej przez Stanisława Ossowskiego definicji „systemu monocentrycznego”. Rządzący odebrali obywatelom podmiotowość, poddali ich kontroli i niszczyli istotne dla nich wartości. W odpowiedzi część młodzieży powołała tajne organizacje, dążąc do zmiany reżimu i ochrony własnej wolności. Celem artykułu jest weryfikacja hipotezy: podziemne związki młodzieżowe stanowiły formę opozycji politycznej w systemie monocentrycznym
Stanowisko Federacji Rosyjskiej wobec paktu Ribbentrop-Mołotow za rządów Władimira Putina
Authors: Bielicki Paweł
Published: August 2022

Artykuł przedstawia stanowisko polityków, historyków i publicystów wobec podpisanej 23 VIII 1939 r. umowy pomiędzy ministrami spraw zagranicznych III Rzeszy i Związku Sowieckiego za rządów Władimira Putina. Zakładała ona podział Europy Środkowej pomiędzy dwa totalitarne mocarstwa. Autor analizuje zmianę taktyki prezydenta Rosji oraz jego akolitów w przedmiotowej kwestii na przestrzeni ostatnich 20 lat. Wysuwa wniosek, że podejście szefa państwa rosyjskiego i jego zwolenników odnośnie do powyższego porozumienia było ściśle uwarunkowane sytuacją wewnętrzną oraz pogorszeniem się relacji Federacji Rosyjskiej z krajami zachodnimi oraz Polską.
Na pomoc walczącej Warszawie. Zabiegi dyplomatyczne władz RP na obczyźnie w 1944 r.
Authors: Szubtarska Beata
Published: August 2022

Prezentowany tekst źródłowy pochodzi z biuletynu Ministerstwa Spraw Zagranicznych (VI–IX 1944 r.). Został przygotowany dla użytku wewnętrznego MSZ i nie jest powszechnie znany. Szczegółowo przedstawia zaangażowanie polskich władz politycznych i dyplomatycznych na terenie Londynu w organizację pomocy dla walczącej stolicy Polski (od końca lipca do pierwszych dni października 1944 r.).
Small-scale biogas plants in Vietnam: How are affected by policy issues?
Authors: Noi Sheriff , Jelínek Marek , Roubik Hynek
Published: August 2022

Both developed and developing countries are working towards creating an emission free planet. Vietnam, as one of the highest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, has implemented several policies to curtail this phenomenon. Most of these policies are geared towards the development of renewable energy technologies such as biogas. The country’s policy on environmental protection, clean energy, climate change, and rural development has been based on small-scale biogas programs and projects. However, how are these small-scale biogas plants affected by arising policy issues? To answer this question, an intensive literature review was conducted and accompanied by a consultation with biogas experts with a focus on Vietnam. The data collected were analysed using the policy cycle analytical approach. The results showed that several policy instruments, such as the price of other conventional fuels and feed-in-tariffs, affect small-scale biogas plants. Furthermore, thousands of small-scale biogas plants have been installed due to good policies such as the Vietnam National Biogas Program. Finally, funding remains the biggest barrier to biogas policy amendments and implementation; the several biogas programs implemented over the decade could have yielded more positive impact if financial barriers like co-financing by the beneficiaries were set up more appropriately. In addition, new policies in the future will favour mid- to large-scale biogas plants rather than small-scale biogas plants. This policy implication threatens the sustainability of small-scale biogas plants; therefore, policy makers must be adroit in addressing policy issues that affect biogas production in Vietnam.
Changes in the agro-technique cultivation of barley as an adaptation to climate change.
Authors: Maho Adrian , Mero Gjergji , Maho Ferdinant
Published: August 2022

Agricultural crops productivity depends on the optimum degree of genetic factors, climate, soil and the level of agro-technology. These factors are changing constantly. The study is focused in a multi-year analysis of the climatic indicators in the region of Korça, by analysing the impact of these changes on the performance of morphological, physiological and production indicators of barley cultivars. The experimental part of the study identified the most suitable barley cultivars and planting period in response to climate changes. The observed data for the time period 2018–2021, and their comparison with a 30-year range period 1961–1990, indicated an increase by 1.8°C of the average atmosphere temperature. During the years of the study, the annual average amount of precipitation has shown not significant changes, but is observed less rainy days with high intensity. The application of the integrated Bagnoulus & Gaussen method indicated that the drought period has increased. From the study it is concluded that climatic factors affect the development of plants not separately but integrated. The period with the greatest influence of ecological factors on the production of different genotypes of barley occurs in the months May – June, a period where the plant is in the ripening stage. The main factor identified, in terms of adaptation to climate change, is the planting of barley in October compared to March, applied in previous practices. Different barley genotypes manifest different degrees of response to climate changes.
Creatine supplementation and its influence on human organism
Authors: Siedlecki Wojciech , Remjasz Klaudia , Kosz Katarzyna , Kuchnicka Aleksandra , Kuchnicka Julia , Zarankiewicz Natalia , Zielińska Martyna , Sapuła Klaudia , Aleksandrowicz Jakub , Fabiś Mateusz
Published: August 2022

Background: Creatine supplementation is one of the most popular methods of improving athletic performance. In this article we reviewed its positive and negative influence on human organism.

Materials and Methods: This paper was based on medical articles collected in PubMed from 1998 to 2019. The research has been done by looking through the key words such as: “creatine”, “supplementation”, “influence”, “kidney”, “renal effects”.

Results: Creatine supplementation has no negative influence on renal function. Moreover it appears to have a positive effect on some aspects of metabolism.

Conclusions: According to the available knowledge, creatine supplementation in appropriate doses is safe.
Gluten - a nutritional enemy or indispensable diet ingredient?
Authors: Choina Magdalena , Gromek Weronika , Marzęda Magdalena , Wilk Klaudia , Łysiak Katarzyna
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Gluten is a mixture of wheat, rye and barley storage proteins. These corps have provided human beings worldwide with energy and nutrients for centuries. However, an increase in the occurrence of symptoms after the consumption of gluten has been observed recently. Although celiac disease is an indication of strict adherence to the gluten-free diet (GFD), the popularity of GFD is growing among healthy people. The risks of unsupported gluten elimination should be assessed before the introduction of GFD.   

Purpose: The study aims to define GFD and indicate who should follow the diet, as well as present difficulties concerning strict adherence to GFD and possible consequences of eliminating gluten on one’s own. 

Description of the state of knowledge: Regarding the mechanism, in which the symptoms after gluten consumption develop, the following diseases have been distinguished: celiac disease (CD), wheat allergy and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Currently, the only indication of strict long-life adherence to GFD is CD. Such a restrictive approach may cause financial and social problems. Although the introduction of GFD improves the quality of life in CD patients, it does not lead to the immediate disappearance of the symptoms. Healthy people, who decide to eliminate gluten, should balance their diet carefully, as GFD might cause nutritional deficiencies and metabolic diseases. 

Summary: Strict long-life adherence to GFD is indicated in CD. This treatment may be problematic, which often is not evident to people who eliminate gluten on their own. Unbalanced GFD can lead to nutritional deficiencies as well as metabolic diseases.
Selected methods of anesthesia in aesthetic medicine procedures
Authors: Kozińska Urszula , Gras-Ozimek Jordi , Gras-Ozimek Aleksander , Skwira Sylwia
Published: August 2022

Pain is a common symptom reported by patients during procedures of aesthetic medicine and cosmetic dermatology. Effective analgesia affects not only patient’s satisfaction and comfort, but also effectiveness of the treatment. The variety of available methods of anesthesia enables individualized analgesia depending on the type of surgery and patient’s preferences. The purpose of this article is to present the current and available methods of anesthesia in aesthetic medicine and cosmetic dermatology as a response to the intensive development of this field of medicine. The article below is based on our own observations and the literature found in the pubmed database.
COVID-19 in periodontal patients
Authors: Perszke Michał , Egierska Dominika
Published: August 2022

Periodontitis is a complex multifactorial disease. COVID-19 pandemic prompted researchers to look for a relationship between SARS-CoV 2 infection and periodontal diseases. The SARS-CoV 2 pathomechanism is associated with the ACE2 receptor, which is highly expressed in periodontal patients. The virus causes a cytokine storm which is also seen in periodontitis. Periopathogen proteases can degrade the S protein of the virus, which facilitates its entry into the host cell. In addition, galectin-3, a protein present in periodontitis, is morphologically similar to the S protein of the virus, which may cause the easier attachment of the virus with the host cell more easily and increase the immune response. In patients infected with SARS-CoV 2, oral lesions such as erosions, ulcers, petechiae, acute parotitis and necrotizing gingivitis occur.  The aim of the study is to present the latest reports on the possible mechanisms of the influence of periodontal diseases on the infection and course of SARS-CoV 2 infection and to describe cases of changes in the oral cavity in the course of COVID-19.
Kłopot z wartościami: szkice z etyki życia społecznego
Authors: Sebesta Antonina
Published: August 2022

THE TROUBLE WITH VALUES: ESSAYS IN THE ETHICS OF SOCIAL LIFE The book consists of ten articles which include: Karl Jaspers about the disease of democracy; The freedom of the individual and his or her membership in political and social organisations; The role of falsehood in the election campaign; The concept of quotas and the concept of equality and justice (an attempt at justification of the quota system); Goodness as an object of conflict; The ethical aspects of the ecological policy; The vision of the university (on the basis of the statements made by the representatives of the Lviv-Warsaw school) an the modern realia; About the educational falsehood; About the role of justice in the educational process; Honourable or worthy citizens? The publication familiarises the reader with the problems of ethics in the practical context, for the ethical theories which are presented therein are referred to reality and not only to the mutual relations between these theories. Inspiration for the articles is furnished both by the literature of the subject as well as the statements of the classics (Aristotle, Locke) and the diagnoses of scholars of such stature as Jaspers, Fromm, Arendt and Kołakowski. The book includes the opinions of writers, researchers, especially of the historians of ideas, statements of journalists and the representatives of local governments. However, special emphasis is put on the in-depth scrutiny from the perspective which is furnished by living in the province and by the engagement in social activities. After Karl Jaspers’s manner the policy that is presented is treated within the framework of the ethics of responsibility and vocation, and not only of efficiency, which is prone to accept falsehood and private interests.
An analysis study of sarcopenia and locomotive syndrome in the old people using evaluation tool
Authors: Kim Myung-Chul , Park Hang-Sik , Kim Hae-In , Park Jean-Kyung , Chung Dong-Kun
Published: August 2022

This study was conducted to analyze the relationship between locomotive syndrome and sarcopenia in the old people using a functional evaluation tool. In this study, 237 Korean old people selected from the Miraeseum Seongnam Senior Complex and the Misa Riverside Welfare Center were diagnosed with the two diseases and the Berg balance scale was performed to confirm the deterioration of dynamic balance sensory. Through the diagnostic evaluation of the two diseases, the locomotive group (n= 180) and the sarcopenia group (n= 34) were classified and statistically analyzed. As a result of the study, a significant difference in dynamic balance sensory between the two diseases was confirmed, and a significant negative correlation was confirmed with 25-question geriatric locomotive function scale and grip strength among the diagnostic evaluation items of the two diseases. These results suggest that gradual deterioration of locomotive syndrome and sarcopenia occurs in the deterioration of physical performance in the old people, suggesting that the evaluation of locomotive syndrome can be used as a screening test for sarcopenia.
The influence of mat Pilates training adherence on strength and flexibility parameters in breast cancer survivors undergoing hormone therapy
Authors: Bertoli Josefina , Bezerra Ewertton de Souza , Santos Sueyla Ferreira da Silva dos , Gobbo Luis Alberto , Júnior Ismael Forte Freitas
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of adherence to mat Pilates training on lower and upper body strength and flexibility in breast cancer survivors. Breast cancer survivors ( ≥ 40 years) with cancer stages 0–III undergoing hormone therapy participated in this study. For this secondary investigation only the intervention group was analyzed, divided into low and high training adherence. Participants performed a 60-min session of mat Pilates, 3 times/wk, for 24 weeks. Concentric, eccentric, and isometric hip flexor-extensor muscle peak torque, and isometric maximal strength parameters of the shoulder abductors, trunk extensors, and handgrip were assessed. Physical activity level was analyzed as a control variable. The results showed that high training adherence improved (P< 0.05) left shoulder abductor strength parameters and lower and upper body flexibility compared to baseline. The low training adherence group improved (P< 0.05) trunk extensors, right and left shoulder abductor strength parameters, handgrip strength, and extensor-flexor peak torque compared to baseline. There were no differences (P> 0.05) between high and low adherence for physical activity level before and after the intervention. Therefore, it appears that higher training adherence most influences some strength parameters and flexibility, while fewer sessions enable the achievement of significant results for shoulder abductor and hip extensor-flexor muscle strength parameters.
Arthroscopic retrieval of a neglected glass shard from the knee Joint – A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Panchal Sameer , Momin Adil Sumer , Yadav Amit Kumar , Bagaria Vaibhav
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Knee joint is not an uncommon site for penetrating injuries and a spacious articulation to accommodate foreign body. Extensive literature is available on removal of loose bodies and metallic foreign bodies from the knee joint with sparse documentation of unusual intruders. Case Presentation: We report an atypical case of neglected glass fragment retrieved from the knee joint of 26-year-old male by arthroscopy, who presented to us 14 months after the index injury, in view of sudden onset excruciating pain following bike ride. Conclusion: Arthroscopy is the preferred minimally invasive modality for removal of foreign bodies from the knee joint, particularly from deeper and remote areas of knee joint. Appropriate pre-operative radiological imaging aids in better understanding of the anatomical location, improves surgical orientation, and shortens the duration of surgery. A high degree of suspicion and a meticulous history taking is important to reach the appropriate diagnosis.
Acute on Chronic Osteomyelitis of the Humerus – A Case Report on a Neglected Case of Chronic Osteomyelitis with Bone Cement In Situ
Authors: Mahi Gagandeep , Patil Atul W , Mate Gaurav B , Yogi Lokesh Kumar
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Chronic osteomyelitis is the bane of orthopedics. Along with being difficult to treat for surgeons, it also impacts the patient’s life immensely, severely restricting their life in all the aspects. Treatment with antibiotic coated cement spacers, which are removed after a duration of 6–8 weeks for the definitive surgery, is a frequently done procedure in conjunction with an adequate debridement of the necrotic tissues and prolonged IV antibiotics. We report a case of acute osteomyelitis superimposed on the chronic osteomyelitis of the left proximal humerus. Case Presentation: An immunocompetent and otherwise healthy 14-year old Indian male who was operated 1 year ago for chronic osteomyelitis presented to us with an acute tense swelling, unbearable pain, and toxemia, with a cement spacer and multiple cement beads in situ. With regards to his initial injury, he had history of fall from height with a puncture wound, possible humerus fracture, treatment by local healers as well as surgical procedures in an outside facility with debridement and placement of cements spacer and beads. On presentation to our facility, removal of retained cement plus debridement was carried out, and after serial surgeries, the defect was successfully treated with the use of antibiotic loaded absorbable calcium sulfate. Conclusion: A basic knowledge about the ideal practices for taking treatment is still inadequate in many population groups within India . It is important to spread awareness of proper healthcare seeking practices among people so that the disability associated time and loss of activity related to injury is significantly reduced. Furthermore, calcium sulfate can be an effective option for treatment of bone defects associated with chronic osteomyelitis.
Limb Salvage Surgery in Osteosarcoma of the Femur Using Liquid-Nitrogen-Frozen Free Femur Autograft in a Developing Country
Authors: Muteti Elijah N , Rotich Geoffrey K , Opakas Jesse E , Souza Antonio M G
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Limb salvage is a technically demanding and capital intensive procedure. In low-income countries, amputation followed by prosthesis use is widely used for the treatment of limb malignancies. This is associated with considerable morbidity and frequent non-adherence to prosthetic use. Therefore, we are reporting a case of osteosarcoma of the femur treated by the use of pre-operative chemotherapy, followed by frozen free femur autograft and intramedullary nailing, with excellent radiologic and functional results at 1 year of follow-up, in a developing country. Case Report: A 16-year-old female presented with the left thigh swelling and pain for 3 months. X-ray of the left femur showed an osteosclerotic tumor in the medial aspect of the middle third of the left femur, diagnosed as osteogenic sarcoma on biopsy. Pre-operative chemotherapy was given. En bloc resection of the tumor was done. The cleaned femur shaft was frozen in liquid nitrogen, reimplanted, and stabilized with an intramedullary nail. One year after surgery, the femur osteotomy sites are fully united and the patient is fully ambulant, without evidence of metastasis or recurrence. Conclusion: This case describes the successful use of a free frozen autograft of the femur in a 16-year-old girl with osteosarcoma of the left femur, done in a developing country, Kenya. It demonstrates the feasibility of limb salvage using this technique in low-income countries.
Management of Neglected Developmental Dysplasia of the Left Hip in a 14-Year-Old Child with Staged Osteotomies Planned with 3D-Printed Model – A Case Report
Authors: Mahajan Neetin P , Kondewar Pranay , Ghoti Kondewar , Wadia Farokh , Chaudhari Kunal
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Developmental dysplasia of hip (DDH) is abnormal development of hip joint causing mild subluxation to complete dislocation of femoral head from acetabulum. Incidence in India is 1–9.2/1000 . Typical risk factors for DDH are said to be female child, first born, breech position, positive family history, left hip, and unilateral involvement. Femoral head and acetabular compressive forces are mutually important stimulators for normal growth (both shape and depth). Deviation from above normal process due to subluxated or dislocated head since birth can lead to abnormal development of both acetabulum and femoral head. Diagnosis of the DDH is made at birth using clinical test and radiologically using ultrasound of hip joint. Management is based on the age of presentation and severity of the instability. Most hips are managed conservatively management depends on the age and symptoms of the patient. Case Report: A 14-year-old female child presented with the complaints of pain in the left hip and difficulty in walking. On clinical and radiological examination, she was diagnosed to have developmental dysplasia of the left hip with partial subluxation of the left hip. Thorough investigation and planning were done using CT PBH and 3D reconstruction of the pelvis to plan the osteotomy. Stages surgery was planned, first, triple innominate osteotomy was performed and later femoral varus derotation osteotomy 6 weeks later. At 3-year follow-up, the patient is pain free and is having no difficulty in doing day-to-day activities. X-ray showing complete coverage of the femoral head with no changes of arthritis in hip. Conclusion: Late presentations of neglected developmental dysplasia poses difficult challenges in management. It can be addressed with osteotomies for improving range of motion and preventing future early arthritis. In our case, good functional range of motion was restored at 3 years follow-up.
Arthroscopic Anterior Capsule Reconstruction Using Fascia Lata Autograft and Knotless Fibretak: A Case Report
Authors: Yadoji Hari Krishna , Bodanki Chandrasekhar , Reddy M V , Reddy A V Gurava
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Shoulder has multidirectional mobility with capsule and rotator cuff as stabilizers. Irreparable subscapularis tears are relatively uncommon. Anterior capsule reconstruction (ACR) is one of the different modalities of treatment for irreparable subscapularis tears. Anterior capsular reconstruction can be performed using hamstring autograft, tibialis anterior allograft, and human dermal allograft. Procedures using hamstring autograft and tibialis anterior allograft reported severe capsular deficiency, recurrent dislocation, and subluxations. Dermal allograft is routinely used for ACR anterior capsule reconstruction. But However, there are no reports of Fascia lata autograft being used for ACR anterior capsule reconstruction. As fascia lata is an autograft, it may have a better chance of healing than dermal allograft. Case Report: A 60-year year-old male patient came with history of slip and fall at home 3 months ago and injured his left shoulder. Magnetic resonance imaging MRI is showing subscapularis tear retracted medial to glenoid and anterior supraspinatus tear with minimal retraction. The aim of this case report is to describe in detail the arthroscopic technique of ACR anterior capsule reconstruction using fascia lata autograft using the new knotless all suture anchors (fibereTak) on glenoid. Conclusion: Fascia lata being an autograft may have better healing potential, but its superiority over dermal allografts in the setting of ACR anterior capsule reconstruction needs further studies.
A Tale of Two Suprascapular Neuropathy Presentations: A Case Report
Authors: Massel Dustin H , Swonger Ronald M , Haziza Sagie , Muñoz Julianne
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Supra-scapular nerve (SSN) neuropathy is a rare condition that can cause shoulder dysfunction. Prior literature has identified mass effect, space occupying lesions, trauma, and repetitive overhead activities as possible etiologies. Cases Presentations: We report two cases of SSN neuropathy; a 21-year-old competitive female volleyball player with traction associated neuropathy and a 45-year-old male with a large paralabral ganglion cyst causing compressive neuropathy. Conclusion: The following report highlights two different etiologies of SSN neuropathy and reviews the treatment of these conditions. Clinicians should consider SSN neuropathy in patients with unexplained shoulder pain and dysfunction.
Fault detection sensitivity analysis and optimization of the few-mode fiber link under a dynamic spatial mode crosstalk cumulative effect
Authors: Wu Ping , Liu Feng , He Zhenxing
Published: August 2022

Due to the cumulative effect of dynamic spatial mode crosstalk, it is difficult to obtain the amplitude distribution of backscattering with high purity. Hence, the fault detection sensitivity (FDS) of the few-mode fiber (FMF) link is deteriorated, and the fault location accuracy is limited. This work investigates the characteristics and optimization method of FDS for the FMF link under the dynamic spatial mode crosstalk cumulative effect. We establish a mathematical model and analyze the influence of dynamic spatial mode crosstalk on the FDS of

L
P

01

,

L
P

11
a

, and

L
P

11
b

modes. The crosstalk mentioned above is caused by different splice misalignments and rotation angles during FMF fusion splicing. The results show that the dynamic spatial mode crosstalk has a great influence on the detection sensitivity of the high-order spatial mode. To solve this problem, the FDS optimization method is proposed based on high-order mode waveform reconstruction. The coupling efficiency matrix at the fusion splice point is estimated by the Rayleigh backscattering waveform of each mode, and the Rayleigh backscattering waveform of high-order spatial modes is reconstructed. The simulation experiment is carried out based on the above theoretical model. The results show that the proposed method can effectively eliminate the influence of the cascading dynamic crosstalk accumulation on the fault loss of the high-order spatial mode, and then optimize the FDS of the FMF link. This study offers new opportunities to develop FMF fault detection devices with high detection sensitivity performance.
Broadband ultra-compact polarization splitter–rotator using diagonally overlapped bi-layer architecture
Authors: Chung Kuo-Fang , Shih Yuan-Ting , Ma Yi-Ren , Shih Tien-Tsorng , Huang Ding-Wei
Published: August 2022

A broadband and ultra-compact polarization splitter–rotator based on diagonally overlapped bi-layer architecture and an asymmetrical directional coupler is proposed on a silicon-on-insulator platform. By leveraging the structure over supermode theory, a 1-dB bandwidth of 220 nm, extinction ratio (ER) of

<

19

d
B

, and cross talk (XT) of

<

−
15.85

d
B

within the span of 1400–1700 nm and coupling length of 4.62 µm are achieved. In addition,

T
M

0

−

T
E

0

conversion loss of

∼

0.19

d
B

, ER of 35.88 dB, and XT of

−

30.46

d
B

can be obtained at 1550 nm. The fabrication tolerances are also analyzed, indicating that the insertion losses remain below 1 dB over 1460–1620 nm in terms of width errors and layer-to-layer misalignments within

±

10

n
m

. The results show that the proposed device is very suitable to utilize between fibers and for polarization diversity of on-chip systems for broadband operation as well as ultra-compact integration.
Automated endocardial cushion segmentation and cellularization quantification in developing hearts using optical coherence tomography
Authors: Ling Shan , Chen Jiawei , Lapierre-Landry Maryse , Suh Junwoo , Liu Yehe , Jenkins Michael W. , Watanabe Michiko , Ford Stephanie M. , Rollins Andrew M.
Published: August 2022

Of all congenital heart defects (CHDs), anomalies in heart valves and septa are among the most common and contribute about fifty percent to the total burden of CHDs. Progenitors to heart valves and septa are endocardial cushions formed in looping hearts through a multi-step process that includes localized expansion of cardiac jelly, endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, cell migration and proliferation. To characterize the development of endocardial cushions, previous studies manually measured cushion size or cushion cell density from images obtained using histology, immunohistochemistry, or optical coherence tomography (OCT). Manual methods are time-consuming and labor-intensive, impeding their applications in cohort studies that require large sample sizes. This study presents an automated strategy to rapidly characterize the anatomy of endocardial cushions from OCT images. A two-step deep learning technique was used to detect the location of the heart and segment endocardial cushions. The acellular and cellular cushion regions were then segregated by K-means clustering. The proposed method can quantify cushion development by measuring the cushion volume and cellularized fraction, and also map 3D spatial organization of the acellular and cellular cushion regions. The application of this method to study the developing looping hearts allowed us to discover a spatial asymmetry of the acellular cardiac jelly in endocardial cushions during these critical stages, which has not been reported before.
Co-registered speckle contrast optical tomography and frequency domain-diffuse optical tomography for imaging of the fifth metatarsal
Authors: Majeski Joseph B. , Dar Irfaan A. , Choe Regine
Published: August 2022

A co-registered speckle contrast optical tomography and frequency domain-diffuse optical tomography system has been designed for imaging total hemoglobin concentration, blood oxygenation, and blood flow with the future aim of monitoring Jones fractures of the fifth metatarsal. Experimental validation was performed using both in vitro tissue-mimicking phantoms and in vivo cuff occlusion experiments. Results of these tissue phantom experiments ensure accurate recovery of three-dimensional distributions of optical properties and flow. Finally, cuff occlusion experiments performed on one healthy human subject demonstrate the system’s ability to recover both decreasing tissue oxygenation and blood flow as caused by an arterial occlusion.
Investigation of the disordered optical fiber with wavelength-scale feature size mediated by transverse Anderson localization
Authors: Niu Jiangfeng , Du Liuge , Zhao Jia
Published: August 2022

A narrow beam propagating through the disordered optical fiber first undergoes diffusive broadening, until its width becomes comparable to the localization length. The study of numerical algorithms and statistical methods in the simulation analysis process of disordered optical fibers demonstrates that the influence of polarization characteristics and transverse grids on calculation errors is critical for statistical numerical simulation in disordered systems. We performed a detailed numerical analysis of the effect of different design parameters in disordered fibers on the localization effect—that is, the localization length, including the refractive index contrast, feature size, and fill-fraction. The results show that the optimal fill-fraction is 50%, and that higher refractive index contrast and larger feature size relative to the wavelength both result in a smaller effective beam width. Finally, numerical evidence is also provided that optical images can be transported via transverse Anderson localization.
Effect of chirp on pulse reflection and refraction at a moving temporal boundary
Authors: Cai Wangyang , Yang Zeyu , Wu Haoyun , Wang Lei , Zhang Jin , Zhang Lifu
Published: August 2022

The reflection and refraction of chirped Gaussian pulse at a moving step refractive-index boundary are investigated. When a chirped Gaussian pulse crosses a temporal boundary, the shape of the reflected spectra is distorted by adjusting chirp parameters. However, the transmitted spectra retain the Gaussian shape. The shape of the final output spectra is the same if the absolute values of the chirp are the same. By changing the chirp values, we can control the energy of the reflected and transmitted pulses, and the splitting distance of the pulse at the temporal boundary. By adjusting the time-dependent refractive index, chirped Gaussian pulses can experience total internal reflection at the temporal boundary. When pulse splitting occurs in an anomalous dispersion region, the velocity of the transmitted pulse decreases.
Velocity-based optoretinography for clinical applications
Authors: Vienola Kari V. , Valente Denise , Zawadzki Robert J. , Jonnal Ravi S.
Published: August 2022

Optoretinography (ORG) is an emerging tool for testing neural function in the retina. Unlike existing methods, it is noninvasive and objective, and provides information about retinal structure and function at once. As such, it has great potential to transform ophthalmic care and clinical trials of novel therapeutics designed to restore or preserve visual function. Recent efforts have demonstrated the feasibility of ORG using state-of-the-art optical coherence tomography systems. These methods measure the stimulus-evoked movement of subcellular features in the retina, using the phase of reflected light to monitor their positions. Here we present an alternative approach that monitors the velocity of these features instead. This conceptual shift has significant implications for the nascent field of ORG. By avoiding the need to track specific cells over time, it obviates costly and laborious aspects of position-based approaches, such as adaptive optics, digital aberration correction, real-time tracking, and three-dimensional segmentation and registration. We used this velocity-based approach to measure the photoreceptor ORG responses in three healthy subjects. The resulting responses were reproducible and exhibited dependence on dose and retinal eccentricity. The possibility of reconstructing the position signal through numerical integration of velocity was explored.