bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atypical Heterotopic Bone Formation Rear to the Functioning Cervical Artificial Disc Prosthesis Causing Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Choi Ik Joon , Choi Man Kyu , Lee Jun Ho
Published: January 2023

Although heterotopic ossification (HO) might occur in a substantial proportion of cervical disc arthroplasty-switched spinal segments, it is predominantly discovered at the anterior vertebral edges of the treated interspace. Herein, we present the case of a 63-year-old woman who presented with clinical signs of myelopathy almost 5 years after the implantation of a Mobi-C disc prosthesis for C6-7 soft disc herniation. As shown by magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography, spinal cord compression and a consequent signal change inside the cord were attributed to bony spurs from HO posterior to the still-moving prosthesis. Initial full posterior decompression through C6-7 bilateral laminectomy added to posterior stabilization almost fully relieved the patient’s functional and sensory changes from myelopathy. However, the device, as well as the ectopic bone deposits, had to be removed, and switching to anterior arthrodesis was necessary due to the imminent aggravation and progression of cervical kyphotic curvature from the still-functioning device. To the authors’ knowledge, such extensive bone accumulation posterior to a functional Mobi-C cervical prosthesis causing myelopathy has not yet been reported in the literature. Conversion to solid fusion would be preferred to posterior decompression for the sake of maintaining cervical curvature.
2D Surface Roughness Quantification for Enhanced Petrophysical Applications
Authors: Singer Gabriela , Ma Shouxiang Mark , Chen Songhua , Eid Mahmoud
Published: January 2023

Surface roughness is an essential rock parameter affecting petrophysical properties that are surface sensitive such as characterization of pore structure and wettability. For instance, Wenzel’s contact angle formula for rough surfaces requires knowledge of the surface roughness, and surface roughness is expected to speed up the aging of cores in crude oil for wettability restoration. In addition, proper quantification of surface roughness is critical for obtaining representative, roughness-independent, pore sizes for applications such as prediction of permeability and interpretation of capillary pressure curves.

Intuitively, a surface is better characterized in 2D than in 1D. This 2D study is a continuation and enhancement of the previous 1D work, recently published in the SPE Journal (Ma et al. 2021). In this current paper, a comprehensive investigation of 1D vs. 2D surface roughness measurements is conducted to evaluate and cross validate the two approaches. In this study, surface roughness is measured on 26 carbonate rock samples by laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM), where both the 1D absolute increment surface roughness, Sr, and the 2D interfacial area ratio of surface roughness, Sdr, are reported. As expected, the results indicate that surface roughness characterized by 2D Sdr has a greater dynamic range than the 1D Sr measurement, i.e., the 2D Sdr provides a more representative characterization of surface roughness.

A detailed account of methodologies, assumptions, limitations, validation, and applications of the 1D and 2D surface roughness characterization is documented in this paper. To extract the roughness features present on rock grain surfaces, effects of de-spiking and filter length, used to eliminate pore-size effects, are investigated. For specific applications of surface roughness corrected pore-size estimation from nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements, differences in length scales of surface roughness are compared between LSCM measurement and that derived from NMR diffusion-T2 plus BET (Brunauer-Emmett-Teller) surface area. The surface roughness-corrected NMR pore-size distribution is also validated against the pore-size distribution obtained from the measurement of micro-computed tomography (CT) scanning.
An Unusual Case of Pancytopenia With Hepatosplenomegaly Case Report
Authors: Alam Farid
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND
Gaucher’s disease is one of the most common lysosomal storage diseases characterized by hematologic abnormalities, organomegaly, and skeletal involvement. It is caused by reduced activity of the enzyme acid β-glucosidase which is encoded by a gene on chromosome 1q21-q311. There are 3 clinical subtypes distinguished by the presence or absence and progression of neurologic manifestations: type 1 or the adult, non neuronopathic form; type 2, the infantile or acute neuronopathic form; and type 3, the juvenile or subacute neuronopathic form3. Here we report a case of Gaucher’s disease that presented with pancytopenia and splenomegaly. We present this case to emphasize the importance of considering storage disorders like Gaucher’s disease when evaluating a case of unexplained pancytopenia and organomegaly even in adults
CASE PRESENTATION
A 20 year old female presented with generalised weakness and easy fatigability, menorrhagia and dragging sensation in the left upper quadrant of abdomen. On physical examination, She had massive splenomegaly with firm consistency, regular margin and smooth surface and a non tender, mild hepatomegaly. Lab investigations showed pancytopenia. Bone marrow biopsy was done which revealed hypercellular marrow with clusters of ovoid macrophages with abundant fibrillary cytoplasm and round eccentric nucleus (gaucher cells). To confirm the diagnosis of Gaucher’s disease (Type 1), β-glucosidase enzyme assay by fluorometry method was done which showed β-glucosidase level of 0.51 nmol/hour/ml (normal value >2 nmol/hour/ml). Final diagnosis was G.D (type-1).
CONCLUSIONS
This case emphasises the importance of considering storage disorders like Gaucher’s disease in patients presenting with pancytopenia and organomegaly even in adulthood. A high index of suspicion is needed for early diagnosis so that timely and appropriate treatment can be administered.
Novel Underwater Continuum Robot: Structural Design, Theoretical Modeling and Experiments
Authors: Ru Changxin , Zang Hongbin , Gao Yuan , Yin Qiang , li Chengjia , Zhou Jun , Huo Jianwen , Yuan Weifeng
Published: January 2023

Continuum robots have high adaptability to narrow underwater environments, because of their unique redundant degree of freedom (DOF) and post drive integration design. However, they need multiple motors to control redundant DOF, which increases the manufacturing cost and control difficulty. This paper studies and proposes a continuum robot suitable for underwater operations. The robot adopts the drive mode of the diagonal coupling gear system to realize the control of two ropes by a single motor and reduce the number of motors from 12 to 6. On this basis, motion can be achieved by rope traction on different joint groups. The kinematic model of the planar circular arc method is established to reduce the complexity of the inverse kinematics of continuous joints and improve the solving speed. The motion posture and working space are obtained through the simulation analysis. Finally, the robot’s function and load test with an arm length of 609 mm are demonstrated, and the air tightness and water tightness tests are carried out at the same time, that verify the rationality of the structure and control of the continuum robot for the underwater operation.
Targeting transforming growth factor alpha to recruit newly generated neuroblasts in cortical brain injuries
Authors: Gómez-Oliva Ricardo , Geribaldi-Doldán Noelia , Domínguez-García Samuel , Pardillo-Díaz Ricardo , Martínez-Ortega Sergio , Oliva-Montero José María , Pérez-García Patricia , Cózar Francisco J García , Muñoz-Miranda Juan Pedro , Sánchez-Gomar Ismael , Nunez-Abades Pedro , Castro Carmen
Published: January 2023

Background
Neurogenesis is stimulated in the subventricular zone (SVZ) of mice with cortical brain injuries. In most of these injuries, newly generated neuroblasts attempt to migrate toward the injury, accumulating within the corpus callosum not reaching the perilesional area.
Methods
We use a murine model of mechanical cortical brain injury, in which we perform unilateral cortical injuries in the primary motor cortex of adult male mice. We study neurogenesis in the SVZ and perilesional area at 7 and 14 dpi as well as the ex pression and concentration of the signaling molecule transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α) and its receptor the epidermal growth factor (EGFR). We use inhibitors of EGFR to promote neurogenesis in brain injuries.
Results
We show that microglial cells that emerge within the injured area and the SVZ in response to the injury express high levels of TGF-α leading to elevated concentrations of TGF-α in the cerebrospinal fluid. Thus, the number of neuroblasts in the SVZ increases in response to the injury, a large number of these neuroblasts remain immature and proliferate expressing the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and the proliferation marker Ki67. Restraining TGF-α release with a classical protein kinase C inhibitor reduces the number of these proliferative EGFR+ immature neuroblasts in the SVZ. In accordance, the inhibition of the TGF-α receptor, EGFR promotes migration of neuroblasts toward the injury leading to an elevated number of neuroblasts within the perilesional area.
Conclusions
our results indicate that in response to an injury, microglial cells activated within the injury and the SVZ release TGF-α, activating the EGFR present in the neuroblasts membrane inducing their proliferation, delaying maturation and negatively regulating migration. The inactivation of this signaling pathway stimulates neuroblast migration toward the injury and enhances the quantity of neuroblasts within the injured area. These results suggest that these proteins may be used as target molecules to regenerate brain injuries.
Energy-saving High-bandwidth Perovskite Nano-encoder
Authors: Xie Wei , Liang Shuang , Zhong Yichi , Tang Bing , Wang Qiangqiang , Hu Yongsheng , Wang Zhenyu , Zhang Long , Dong Hongxing , Xu Hongxing
Published: January 2023

Optical coding has been widely applied in communication and data processing fields due to its practical and powerful characteristics, such as high transmission rate and operation convenience. However, improvements in the loading information capacity of optical encoders, always cause more energy consumption. It is a challenge to realize an optical encoder that combines energy savings, high bandwidth, and miniaturization. Here, we report both the concept and the demonstration of a perovskite nano-encoder with an 84% energy-saving efficiency and a tuneable bandwidth up to 200 GHz. The way to code the radiative dynamics of the light source could reduce the unnecessary energy consumption from the initial stage through the control of radiation core. Moreover, the miniature encoder generates code sequences of good coherence, stimulating the development of perovskite-based optical microchips for ultrafast information processing.
Lockpicking using Ultra-High Resolution Multi- Slice and Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Adwan Hamzah , Othman Ahmed E. , Brockmann Marc A. , Steinmetz Sebastian
Published: January 2023

(1) Purpose: Combination locks are frequently being used to protect personal property. Since hitherto not described in the literature, we evaluated whether locks can be picked using computed tomography imaging.
(2) Materials and methods: Three different combination locks (1296-42875 possible combinations) were scanned using an ultra-high resolution multi slice CT-Scanner (UHR-MSCT) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Image quality was rated by two radiologists using a 4-point Likert scale (1: Poor, 2: Moderate, 3: Good, 4: Very good) and both radiologists were asked to pick the lock using the acquired CT images. The time until picking each of the lock was measured.
(3) Results: All three locks were successfully picked by both radiologists using the UHR-MSCT und CBCT images. Overall, the image quality of CBCT (median=3.5) was superior to MSCT (median=3). The interrater reliability showed a moderate agreement for image quality of CBCT (k=0.4) and MSCT (k=0.5) between both radiologists. The median overall time required by both radiologists for picking all locks was 10.5 minutes (Range: 6-16 minutes). The median lockpicking time required by radiologist 1 was 10 minutes (Range: 7-15 minutes), and by radiologist 2 was 11 minutes (Range: 6-16 minutes).
(4) Conclusion: UHR-MSCT and CBCT can be successfully applied for picking different kinds of combination locks.
High-order OAM states unwrapping in multiplexed optical links
Authors: Ni Wenjun , Yang Chunyong , Liu Rui , Wang Shun , Tian Yongsheng , Hou Jin , Chen Shaoping , Shum Perry Ping
Published: January 2023

Accurately to unwrap the high-order orbital angular momentum (OAM) for multiplexed vortex beams is a challenge. In this work, over ±160 order OAM topological charges (TCs) have been unwrapped in multiplexed optical links. Optical imaging based discrepancy identification enables the multiplexed OAM modes separating in physics, and the intelligent pattern recognition further promotes its unwrapping in numerical domain. Particularly, the combination of annular phase grating (APG) and auxiliary beams features compound spiral stripes, which paves the way for optical intensity recognition with low-complexity and high-commonality. Moreover, the spiral direction characterizes the symbol of the OAM states, which dramatically broadens the amount of multiplexed links. Here, optical separating means assisted by intelligent pattern recognition opens up a new route for high-speed and large-capacity optical communication, which may shed a new light on 6G application.
Effect of the denture adhesive for dry mouth on the retentive force of experimental palatal plates
Authors: Yamane Kunihito , Sato Yuji , Furuya Junichi , Shimodaira Osamu
Published: January 2023

Background
The number of denture wearers with dry mouth has been increasing with the continuous ageing of the population. The use of denture adhesives may be effective when dentures are difficult to stabilise. A denture adhesive for dry mouth with good cleaning properties has recently been developed. We have evaluated the retentive force of dentures on models when a denture adhesive for dry mouth was used and obtained good results. However, there are no reports comparing the retentive force of denture adhesives for dry mouth with conventional denture adhesives in the oral cavity. In this study, the retentive forces of a denture adhesive for dry mouth, conventional denture adhesive, and an oral moisturizer were compared and determined in the oral cavity of dentulous jaws using an experimental palatal plate.
Methods
Ten healthy dentulous participants (mean age 27.2 ± 1.6 years) were included in the study. Palatal plates were fabricated. Four test samples were used: denture adhesive for dry mouth, conventional denture adhesive (cream type), oral moisturizer, and denture moisturizer. The sample was applied to the inner surface of the palatal plates, and the retentive force of the palatal plate was measured every 10 min for 30 min. After the measurements, the study participants were asked to rinse the palatal plate with water and subjectively evaluate the samples used.
Results
The conventional denture adhesive (cream type) showed increased retentive force over time, with the maximum retentive force obtained after 10 min of application. However, its washability was rated second lowest. The denture adhesive for dry mouth showed the highest retentive force immediately after application. Its washability was also good.
Conclusions
The results suggest that the denture adhesive for dry mouth has reasonable retentive force in the oral cavity and cleaning properties compared to the conventional cream-type denture adhesive.
Comparison of different reference values for lung function: implications of inconsistent use among centers
Authors: Mangseth Henrik , Sikkeland Liv Ingunn , Durheim Michael Thomas , Ulvestad Mariann , Myrdal Ole Henrik , Kongerud Johny , Lund May B
Published: January 2023

Background: For interpretation of pulmonary function tests (PFTs), reference values based on sex, age, height and ethnicity are needed. In Norway, the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) reference values remain widely used, in spite of recommendations to implement the more recent Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) reference values.
Objective: To assess the effects of changing from ECSC to GLI reference values for spirometry, DLCO and static lung volumes, using a clinical cohort of adults with a broad range in age and lung function.
Methods: PFTs from 577 adults (18-85 years, 45% females) included in recent clinical studies were used to compare ECSC and GLI reference values for FVC, FEV1, DLCO, TLC and RV. Percent predicted and lower limit of normal (LLN) were calculated. Bland-Altman plots and paired t-test were used to compare GLI and ECSC predicted values.
Results: In both genders, GLI predicted values were lower for FVC and FEV1, and higher for DLCO and RV, compared to ECSC. The disagreement was most pronounced in females, with mean (SD) difference 15 (5) percent points (pp) for DLCO and 17 (9) pp for RV (p<0.001). With GLI, DLCO was below LLN in 23% females, as compared to in 49% with ECSC.
Conclusions: The observed differences between GLI and ECSC reference values are likely to entail significant consequences with respect to criteria for diagnostics and treatment, health care benefits and inclusion in clinical trials. To ensure equity of care, the same reference values should be consistently implemented across centers nationwide.
Physician-staffed prehospital units: When and how they make a difference. A retrospective follow-up from an urban area in Scandinavia
Authors: Strandqvist Erik , Olheden Staffan , Bäckman Anders , Jörnvall Henrik , Bäckström Denise
Published: January 2023

Background: The aim of this study was to determine when and how rapid response vehicles (RRVs) make a difference in prehospital care by investigating the number and kinds of RRV assignment dispatches and the prehospital characteristics and interventions involved.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study was based on data from a quality assurance system where all assignments are registered. RRV staff register every assignment directly at the site, using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. There is no mandatory information requirement or time limit for registration. The study includes data for all RRVs operating in Region Stockholm, three during daytime hours and one at night – from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.
Results: In 2021, RRVs in Stockholm were dispatched on 11,283 occasions, of which 3,571 (31.6%) resulted in stand-downs. In general, stand-downs were less common for older patients. The most common dispatch category was blunt trauma (1,584 or 14.0%), which accounted for the highest frequency of stand-downs (676 or 6.0%). The second most common category was cardiac arrest (1,086 or 9.6%), followed by shortness of breath (691 or 6.1%), medical not specified (N/S) (596 or 5.3%), and seizures (572 or 5.1%).
Conclusion: The study findings confirm that RRVs provide valuable assistance to the ambulance service in Stockholm, especially for cardiac arrest and trauma patients. In particular, RRV personnel have more advanced medical knowledge and can administer medications and perform interventions that the regular ambulance service cannot provide.
Association mapping in multiple yam species (Dioscorea spp.) of quantitative trait loci for yield-related traits
Authors: Adejumobi I. I. , AGRE Paterne , Adewumi A.S. , Temitope E.S. , Cipriano I.M. , Komoy J.L , Adheka J.G. , Onautshu D.O.
Published: January 2023

Background

Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is multiple species with various ploidy levels and is considered as a cash crop in many producing areas. Phenotypic selection in yam improvement is a lengthy procedure. However, marker-assisted selection has proven to reduce the breeding cycle with enhanced selection efficiency.

Methodology

In this study, a panel of 182 yam accessions distributed across six yam species were assessed for diversity and marker-traits association study using SNP markers generated from Diversity Array Technology platform. Association analysis was performed using mixed linear model (K + Q) implemented in GAPIT followed by gene annotation.

Results

Accessions performance were significantly different (p < 0.001) across all the traits with high broad-sense heritability (H2). Phenotypic and genotypic correlations showed positive relationships between yield and vigor but negative for yield and yam mosaic disease. Population structure revealed k = 6 as optimal clusters-based species. A total of 15 SNP markers distributed across nine chromosomes loci were associated with yield, vigor, mosaic, and anthracnose disease resistance. Gene annotation for the significant SNP loci identified some putative genes associated with primary metabolism, pest, and disease resistance for resistance to anthracnose, maintenance of NADPH in biosynthetic reaction especially those involving nitro-oxidative stress for resistance to mosaic virus, and seed development, photosynthesis, nutrition use efficiency, stress tolerance, vegetative and reproductive development for tuber yield.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into the genetic control of plant vigor, anthracnose, mosaic virus resistance, and tuber yield in yam and thus, opens an avenue for developing additional genomic resources for markers-assisted selection focusing on multiple yam species.
α7nAChR Activation Combined with Endothelial Progenitor Cell Transplantation Attenuates Lung Injury in Diabetic Rats with Sepsis through the NF-κB and JAK2/STAT3 Pathways
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyun , Wang Haixu , Cai Xuemin , Zhang Aijia , Liu Enran , Li Zhiyuan , Jiang Tao , Li Dongmei , Ding Wengang
Published: January 2023

Background: Chronic diabetes mellitus compromises the vascular system, which causes organ injury, including in the lung. Due to the strong compensatory ability of the lung, it always shows subclinical symptoms. Once sepsis occurs, the degree of lung injury is more severe under hyperglycaemia. α7nAChRs play an important role in regulating inflammation and metabolism. Our previous study demonstrated that PNU282987, an α7nAChR agonist, could improve endothelial progenitor cell functions. In this study, we examined the role of diabetes mellitus during sepsis and whether α7nAChR activation combined with endothelial progenitor cell transplantation can protect the lung from septic and diabetic impairments.
Methods: Type 2 diabetic model rats were induced by a high-fat diet and streptozotocin. Then, these rats were exposed to lipopolysaccharide in a two-hit manner to cause sepsis. The oxygenation index, wet-to-dry ratio and histopathological score of the lungs were tested after PNU282987 treatment and EPC transplantation. IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α and IL-10 levels were measured by ELISA. Caspase-3, Bax, Bcl-2, NF-κB, phosphorylated JAK2 and phosphorylated STAT3 levels were measured by western blotting to investigate apoptosis and the underlying mechanism.
Results:Sepsis caused obvious lung injury, which was exacerbated by diabetic conditions. α7nAChR activation and endothelial progenitor cell injection reduced injury in diabetic rats with sepsis, alleviating inflammation and decreasing apoptosis. This treatment was more effective when PNU282987 and endothelial progenitor cells were administered together. The JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway was activated during this process, and the phosphorylation of NF-κB was inhibited.
Conclusion: Activating α7nAChRs and endothelial progenitor cell transplantation alleviated the lung injury in diabetic rats with sepsis. Combining PNU282987 with endothelial progenitor cell transplantation showed better results than either treatment alone. During this process, the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway was activated, and NF-κB was inhibited.
Unilateral pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy with acute angle-closure glaucoma: a case report
Authors: Lv Kun , Liang Zhiqiao , Yang Kangyi , Chen Xuanzhu , Ma Yao , Wu Huijuan
Published: January 2023

Background: Pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy (PPRCA) is an uncommon fundus disease characterized by perivenous aggregations of pigment clumps and retinochoroidal atrophy distributed along the retinal veins. We report a Chinese female case of unilateral PPRCA with acute angle-closure glaucoma (AACG).
Case presentation: A 50-year-old Chinese female presented with vision loss and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in the right eye and then underwent trabeculectomy. She referred to our clinic for further evaluation and treatment. The funduscopic examination revealed grayish retinochoroidal atrophy and osteocyte-like pigment clumping lesions along the retinal veins and peripapillary preretinal hemorrhage in the right eye. The patient also presented with AACG in the same eye on the basis of past medical history of acute attack, shallow anterior chamber depth (ACD), narrow angle showed by ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and glaucomatous neuropathy identified by optical coherence tomography (OCT). Other examinations like fluorescein fundus angiography (FFA), electroretinogram (ERG) and electrooculography (EOG) all confirmed the aforementioned diagnose.
Conclusion: PPRCA is a rare disease, uncommon in females and symmetrical in both eyes. We present a rare case of unilateral PPRCA accompanied with AACG.
Decarbonizing the US power system presents diverse challenges and opportunities in the changing employment landscape
Authors: Xie Judy Jingwei , Martin Melissa , Rogelj Joeri , Staffell Iain
Published: January 2023

The transition towards a low-carbon power system presents immense challenges and opportunities to the workforce. Studies of the energy transition’s regional and distributional employment impacts are mainly qualitative or disconnected from prevailing energy modeling scenarios. Here, we couple a power sector optimization model, an employment impact model, and demographic databases to further understand the state-level job characteristics and societal implications in the US. Major fossil fuel producers risk job losses even without new emission reduction policies, requiring the reskilling of up to 30% of the current workforce. The results highlight the need for investments in human capital and a supply chain restructuring. Blue-collar workers are crucial to delivering the transition. Expanding renewable energy could improve job opportunities for women in states dependent on fossil fuels, but not enough to disrupt the national status quo. This work sets a new quantitative perspective to inform proactive local Just Transition policymaking.
Assessing outcomes for an arboreal folivore after rehabilitation; implications for management.
Authors: Leigh Kellie A , Hofweber Lacey N , Sloggett Brienna K , Inman Victoria , Pettit Lachlan , Sri Aditi , Haering Ron J
Published: January 2023

Wildlife rehabilitation is a critical part of animal welfare that contributes to species conservation. Despite the resources that go into rehabilitation, how animals fare after release from care is unknown. This is particularly true for cryptic arboreal species where specialist diets in care and low detectability in the wild present challenges for both care and post-release monitoring. We evaluated post-release outcomes for koalas and assessed if koalas were fed appropriately while in care. We monitored 36 koalas that had experienced one of three categories of medical intervention (none, minor, major) during rehabilitation. We examined the drivers of i) koala survival and ii) movements post-release, and iii) evaluated variation between the species of browse fed in care versus browse selected by koalas in-situ. Overall, the post release survival rate of koalas was 58.5%, with only koalas that received medical intervention experiencing mortality. A critical threshold for mortality occurred at two weeks post-release and mortality was related to the measurable indicators of low body condition and poor climbing ability at time of release. In the month following their release, animals translocated furthest from their capture point moved the furthest. There was poor overlap between the tree species that koalas were fed in care and those they utilized post-release. We provide recommendations to address critical gaps in rehabilitation practices, as well as priorities for monitoring animals post-release to improve outcomes for arboreal folivores.
The reproducibility of the bacterial community present in the cultures of the marine diatom Haslea ostrearia
Authors: Peticca Aurelie , Fodil Mostefa , Chenais Benoit , Sabot Francois , Casse Nathalie
Published: January 2023

Background: The pigment produced by Haslea ostrearia, the marennine, is of an important medical and economic interest. Unfortunately this microalgae is complex to grow under axenic conditions, and H. ostrearia probably needs its own bacterial procession to survive. Consequently, this important bacterial presence greatly complicates any study of its ecological, physiological and genomic content. We have therefore tested a first approach of a protocol to control the bacterial concentration without killing the microalgae, by growing four H. ostrearia NCC 532 cultures under two culture conditions: two with and two without antibiotic treatment. We also sought a first bacterial identification method by 16S sequencing adapted to the bacterial community of H. ostrearia.
Results: The V3V4 16S region allowed precise identification of bacteria present in H. ostrearia culture. Also, an antibiotic treatment was found necessary to stabilize the bacterial population of the cultures before the DNA extraction.
Conclusions: These first results will allow the testing of other antibiotic treatments specific to these bacteria, as well as a wider study of other H. ostreariaisolates to determine the essential bacterial community of this microalga.
Feature Mapping: improving ocean forecasts, one eddy at a time
Authors: Rykova Tatiana
Published: January 2023

Marine industries, war fighters, and world leaders demand accurate maps of ocean properties to underpin tactical and strategic decisions. Oceanographers have approached this challenge by borrowing mapping techniques from weather forecasters. However, compared to the atmosphere, the spatial scales of the ocean are small, and ocean properties are vastly under-sampled. Not surprisingly, despite decades of dedicated effort, the quality of maps of under-sea conditions remains poor. Feature mapping is a new approach to this problem that treats every ocean eddy individually. It strictly limits the influence of each observation to the oceanographic feature that it directly observes. Resulting maps are precise and realistic and may revolutionise ocean forecasting.
Efficacy of Cerebral Embolic Protection Device During Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: An Updated Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Chao , Han Jingjun , Lu Liuyi , Qiu Junxiong , Fu Yuan , Zheng Junmeng
Published: January 2023

Aims: Perioperative stroke remains a devastating complication after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), using cerebral embolic protection device (CEPD) during TAVI may reduce stroke rate according to some studies. Therefore, we conducted this meta-analysis and may suggest whether CPED should be routinely used during TAVI.
Methods and results: Studies were included which compared the outcome of stroke when with or without CEPD during TAVI, random controlled trials (RCTs) only, and followed up for at least 30 days. The primary end point was stroke. The risk of stroke at 30-days was no significantly difference in using CEPD during TAVI compared with control: RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.63 to 1.12, p = 0.23, I2=9%. Subgroup analysis was conducted according to the type of CEPD. There were no significantly differences neither using I&LCCA type nor TMCA type compared with control: RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.47 to 1.00, p = 0.05, I2=25%; RR 1.16, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.83, p = 0.51, I2=0%.
Conclusions: In this meta-analysis, there was no significant evidence indicated CEPD can reduce the risk of stroke risk during TAVI. However, subgroup analysis of I&LCCA type group P=0.05, according to the basis of the 95% CI around this outcome, it is hard to rule out the efficacy of CEPD during TAVI. Maybe with large sample size, one valve type only, one outcome definition only, multicenter studies and extend the retention time of CEPD, the efficacy of CEPD would be proofed.
On The Peer Review Reports: Does Size Matter?
Authors: Maddi Abdelghani , Miotti Luis
Published: January 2023

Scientometers and sociologists of science have spilled much ink on the topic of peer review over the past twenty years given its primordial role in a context marked by the exponential growth of scientific production and the proliferation of predatory journals. Although the topic is addressed under different prisms, few studies have empirically analyzed to what extent it can affect the quality of publications. Here we study (1) the link between the length of reviewers' reports and the citations received by publications, (2) The threshold (expressed in number of words in reviewers' reports) at which the effect on citations becomes statistically significant. To do this, we used data from the Publons database (58,093 peer review reports). We have adjusted this sample to match the WoS database structure. Our regression results show that peer review positively affects the quality of publications. In other words, the more in-depth (longer) the referees' reports are, the greater the publication improvements will be, resulting in an increase in citations received. This result is important from both the point of view of reviewers and that of journal's chiefs-editors. Even if it is not a remunerated activity, it is important that it be more valued at least within the framework of research evaluation exercises, given its positive impact on science. On the thresholds, the results differ between the types of regression used. The threshold is 1250 words (about one page) for Negative Binomial regression, 1400 words for Poisson regression and 2400 words for GLM regression. These results suggest that a report that brings the most value to the publication is a deep report, which naturally requires more time to produce. This is an important result in a context where the deadlines granted to reviewers tend to decrease for some publishers.
Biomechanical comparison and operation on cadaver of a novel atlantoaxial lateral mass cage
Authors: Sun Zeyu , Wang Zhong , Li Bo , Ding Yi , Zhao Weifeng
Published: January 2023

Background To improve clinical efficacy of atlantoaxial instability. We design a novel lateral mass cage and compare the biomechanical differences between Pedicle Screw model and Cage + Pedicle Screw model to demonstrate the practicability of the cage. Methods From computed tomography (CT) images, a nonlinear intact three-dimensional C0-3 finite element model was developed. Then a finite element analysis (FEM) of an unstable model treated with Pedicle Screw model, was compared to that with Cage + Pedical Screw model. All models were subjected to vertical load in flexion, extension, lateral bending, rotation, vertical compression and forward shear. Range of motion (ROM) of C1-C2 segment and maximum von Mises Stress of the rod and screws were quantified in two models. Then, we do a simulation operation on cadaver specimen to evaluate the practicability of the mass cage trough photos and CT scan. Results Both two models significantly reduced ROM compared with the unstable model. In comparison with the Pedicle Screw model, the Cage + Pedicle Screw model reduced the ROM by 24.47%, -7.05%, 3.17% and 4.79% in flexion, extension, lateral bending and rotation. The Cage + Pedicle Screw model showed a significant increase stresses on rod and screw than the Pedicle Screw model in flexion, lateral bending, rotation, vertical compression and forward shear. Through the photos and CT scan, the lateral mass cage can be plated into a accurate place. Conclusion Our study indicated that either pedicle screw or cage + pedicle screw can reduce the ROM of C1-C2, while the cage will enhance the stability of C1-C2 in flexion significantly, meanwhile, decrease the stress on the rod and screws.
Assessing Minimal Detectable Changes and Test-Retest Reliability ofthe Timed Up and Go Test and the 2-Minute Walk Test in Patientswith Unicondylar Knee Replacement
Authors: Karaguven Dogac , Akti Sefa , Akan Burak , Celebi Nilgun Ozgul , Gumus Danyal , Cankaya Deniz
Published: January 2023

Background: The two-minute walk test (2MWT) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) test are inexpensive, fast, and reliable tests for the evaluation of mobility in patients. These tests have proven reliable and valid in many patient groups. This study aimed to measure the minimal detectable change (MDC) scores and test-retest reliability of the TUG and 2MWT in patients who underwent unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA).
Methods: Sixty-eight patients (53 men and 15 women) who underwent UKA at the same center were evaluated. Range of motion (ROM) and Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scores were also measured. The TUG test and 2MWT were performed twice on the same day with a one-hour interval.
Results: The interclass correlation coefficient values were 0.96 and 0.98 for the TUG test and 2MWT, respectively, which showed perfect test-retest reliability in patients who underwent UKA. The MDC values were 1.28 seconds and 5.55 meters, respectively, while the standard error measures (SEMs) were ±0.46 and ±2.00, respectively.
Conclusion: The TUG test and 2MWT are cheap, reliable, easy, and simple performance-oriented tests with excellent test-retest reliability for patients with a history of UKA. For the TUG test, 1.28 seconds and more caused a real difference, while 5.55 meters was the limit for real difference for the 2MWT. These values should be considered when evaluating patients with a history of UKA.
Long-term findings of rectal endoscopy and rectal bleeding after moderately hypofractionated, intensity-modulated radiotherapy for prostate cancer
Authors: Bae Bong Kyung , Kim Ji Eun , Pyo Hongryull , Hong Sung Noh , Park Won
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND: To present rectal endoscopic findings and toxicity after definitive moderately hypofractionated, intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for prostate cancer.
METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent IMRT for prostate cancer and underwent post-radiotherapy endoscopies between 2008 and 2018. Endoscopic findings were reviewed and graded using Vienna Rectoscopy Score (VRS). We have analyzed the association between endoscopic findings and rectal bleeding, and investigated risk factors for rectal bleeding.
RESULTS: Total 162 patients met the inclusion criteria of this study. There was a trend of VRS worsening during the initial 3 years after radiotherapy followed by recovery. Rectal bleeding was highest at 1 year after radiotherapy and improved thereafter. The 5-year cumulative incidence of grade ≥ 2 rectal bleeding was 14.8%. In the multivariable Cox regression analysis, cardiovascular disease (hazard ratio [HR] 2.732, P = 0.037), rectal wall V65 (HR 1.158, P = 0.027), and VRS ≥ 3 in first post-radiotherapy endoscopy (HR 2.573, P = 0.031) were significant risk factors for rectal bleeding.
CONCLUSIONS: After IMRT for prostate cancer, VRS and rectal bleeding worsened over 1–3 years after radiotherapy and recovered. Cardiovascular disease, rectal wall V65, and VRS ≥ 3 in first post-radiotherapy endoscopy were significant risk factors for rectal bleeding.
Liver transcriptome analysis reveals the energy regulation and functional impairment of Onychosoma sima during starvation
Authors: Chen Chunna , Zhou Bo , Lin Jue , Gong Quan , Xu Fei , Li Zhengyi , Huang Yingying
Published: January 2023

Releasing juvenile fish into the resource-depleted waters, is regarded as an effective way to restore fishery resources. However, during this stage, released fish are most vulnerable to long-term food deprivation due to environmental changes and low adaptability. Therefore, research regarding the energy regulation of fish under starvation stress is crucial to the optimization of release strategies. In this study, we performed a comparative transcriptome analysis of the liver of Onychosoma sima subjected to starvation for 14 days. The results showed that, under long-term starvation, the liver regulated glucose homeostasis by activating the gluconeogenesis pathway. Meanwhile, the fatty acid metabolism pathway was activated to supply acetyl-coA to the TCA cycle pathway, thus increasing mitochondrial ATP production and maintaining the balance of energy metabolism. Nevertheless, the activation of energy metabolism could not completely compensate for the role of exogenous nutrients, as evidenced by the downregulation of many genes involved in antioxidant defenses (e.g., cat, gpx3, mgst1, and mgst2) and immune response (e.g., c3, cd22, trnfrsf14, and a2ml). The consequence is multiple metabolic disorder, and the body resistance weakened. In summary, our data reveal the effects of long-term starvation on the energy metabolism and defensive regulation of released fish, and these findings will provide a new theoretical basis for the optimization of artificial release.
Two-Holes Reconstruction Plate for Correction of Coronal Plane Deformities of the Knee in Children, Khartoum, 2020
Authors: Elbadri Mohammed Elfatih , Alrasheed Mohammed Khalid , Alssir Mohamed Ahmed , Saeed Ali Awadallah
Published: January 2023

Background: Angular deformities of lower limb in Pediatric age group present very commonly to orthopedic and pediatric clinics, and it may be physiological or may be true deformities. [8]
In the past, Osteotomies have been the mainstays of treating deformities even in children. Recently, guided growth techniques become widely used in management of coronal plan angular deformities around the knees. It is a less invasive technique compared to osteotomies. The results are more predictable and the process is reversible. The implants can be removed after the desired correction is achieved. To our knowledge, no such study had been done in Khartoum, Sudan.
Purposes and questions: ''Does guided growth techniques using two hole reconstruction plate for the treatment of coronal plan deformities around the knee decrease joint deformity and growth retardation in children?'', does there is a correlation between the radiological outcomes and the type of deformity, and to identify the post-operative complications.
Methods: This is a cross sectional descriptive hospital based study of 22 patients (30 limbs) gathered and treated during a period from 2018 to 2020 by a single surgeon employing a standardized technique. The inclusion criteria were all patients with coronal plane deformities around the knee with an open physis, regardless of pathological background. Patients with physiological genuvarum or genuvalgum or who had previous or concurrent surgeries for the same problem were excluded from the study. Patient’s age and gender were recorded. Mechanical axis deviation (MAD) distance, tibio‑femoral angle (TFA), mechanical lateral distal femoral angle, and mechanical medial proximal tibia angle were measured from a long standing anteroposterior radiograph, including the hip, knee and ankle joints.
Results: The average age was 7.0±3.5 years, and the mean duration of treatment was 10.4 months, with “sick physis” requiring longer durations. There was significant association between types of deformity was associated, with gender with P value 0.003 which found that, majority of genuvarum deformity found in females and genuvalgum found in males. The mean rate of correction of TFA was 1.4°/month. The MAD distance improved from 34.1±18.0 to 9.8± 6.4.
Conclusion: This study confirms that success rate by guided growth technique using two- hole reconstruction plate in management of coronal plane deformity around the knee is high. Younger patients had better and faster outcomes. The direction of the future research is on continuous follow up for those children for any rebound coronal plane deformity.
A Case Study for Cyber-Attack Detection using Quantum Variational Circuits
Authors: Moll Maximilian , Kunczik Leonhard
Published: January 2023

Identification of malicious attacks in network traffic is one of many important Big Data problems that have been approached from different directions, including machine learning. In this paper, it is used as an example for investigating the applicability of quantum machine learning to such problems. Particular focus is kept on the NISQ era, in which available computer sizes are typically fairly small. A new approach is introduced that allows quantum variational circuits to be split between different computers without the typical overhead cost of cutting and knitting techniques. It is compared to classical and established quantum approaches on a real-world data set.
The in vitro Treatment of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Sel Figen Abatay , Erol Ayşe , Süleymanoğlu Mediha , Demirayak Gökhan , Çınar Ciğdem Kekik , Kuruca Dürdane Serap , Oğuz Fatma Savran
Published: January 2023

Colorectal cancer is the most common tumor of the gastrointestinal system. The conventional treatment options of colorectal cancer are troublesome for both patients and clinicians. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been the novel focus for cell therapy due to its migration to tumor sites. In this study, the apoptotic effect of MSCs on colorectal cancer cell lines has been aimed. HCT-116 and HT-29 were selected as the colorectal cancer cell lines. Human umbilical cord blood and Wharton’s jelly were used as mesenchymal stem cell sources. To discriminate against the apoptotic effect of MSC on cancer, we also used peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) as a healthy control group. Cord blood-MSC and PBMC were obtained by ficoll-paque density gradient, and Wharton’s jelly-MSC by explant method. Transwell co-culture systems were used as cancer cells or PBMC/MSCs at ratios of 1/5 and 1/10, incubation times of 24 hours and 72 hours. The Annexin V/PI-FITC based apoptosis assay was performed by flow cytometry. Caspase-3 and HTRA2/Omi proteins were measured by ELISA. For both ratios in both cancer cells, it was found that the apoptotic effect of Wharton’s jelly-MSC was significantly higher in 72-hour incubations (p<0.006), whereas the effect of cord blood mesenchymal stem cell in 24-hour incubations were higher (p<0.007). In this study, we showed that human cord blood and tissue derived MSCs treatment led colorectal cancers to apoptosis. We anticipate that further in vivo studies may shed light on the apoptotic effect of MSC.