bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of productivity of spring barley depending on the use of fungicides in the conditions of black soils of the Volgograd region
Authors: Maslennikova Sofia , Sarychev Alexander , Reznikova Oksana
Published: December 2023

The article discusses the results of studies on the study of zoned varieties of spring barley in the zone of black soils and their reaction to the use of fungicides when treating seeds. It was found that in years with different climatic characteristics, there are differences in varieties in the duration of phenological phases. The longest growing season was observed for the Novonikolaevsky variety, and the shortest for the Prairie variety. The best results on germination and safety of plants were obtained on the variant with the Novonikolaevsky variety, while on all varieties it was noted that the use of a three-component fungicide promotes better germination and safety than on options with a single-component fungicide and without the use of fungicides. Analysis of the productivity of varieties showed that the studied varieties had different yields depending on the use of seed protectants. The yield of the Novonikolaevsky variety was the highest in all studied options for using fungicides compared to the Prairie variety. In the variant using the Vial Trio fungicide with the active ingredients Prochloraz 120 g/l, Thiabendazole 30 g/l, Cyproconazole 5 g/l, it was 3.41 t/ha. Thus, it can be recommended that agricultural producers cultivate the spring barley variety Novonikolaevsky, and carry out the main seed treatment with the fungicidal preparation Vial Trio.
Preliminary determination of wood stocks for evaluation of carbon storage in forest systems of landslide slopes
Authors: Kotova Nataliya , Fardeeva Marina , Usmanov Bulat , Potapov Kim
Published: December 2023

The main purpose of the study is to determine the dynamics of wood volumes in tree populations by forest communities of landslide elements for further assessment of carbon sequestration and to identify the possibility of population-based methods for indicating landslide activity. The studies were carried out in 2008-2019 at specially protected natural reservation “Massiv-Dachny” on the right bank slopes of the Volga River (Tatarstan, Russia). As a result of the research, it was revealed that a distinctive feature of slope forests under conditions of landslide-scree processes is a decrease in the proportion, forest stand and crown density of native forest-forming species –Q. robur,P. sylvestris, and an increase in the proportion ofA. platonoides,B. pendula,P. tremulawith lower depositing capacity. Under conditions of temporary stability of landslide elements, the formation of long-term derivativeT. cordataforests occurs. Clear cuttings of old-growth primary oak forests with pine carried out in 2018-2019 rise the risks of new landslide displacements and led to imbalance in the composition and structure of slope phytocenoses. For the first time for the study area, a database of morphometric and population parameters of trees in phytocenoses of landslide slopes was formed.
Morphological features and histological structure of the musculature of two trout phenotypic forms when reared in warm water of a power plant
Authors: Zolotova A. , Panov V. , Esavkin Yu. , Safonova S. , Safonov A.
Published: December 2023

The paper studies the effect of rearing in stocking ponds using the warm discharge water of the Smolensk NPP on the growth and trout meat quality. Some morphological indicators of trout cultivation are presented. The histological studies of the musculature of golden and typically colored trout are presented. It was revealed that the golden trout musculature grows with a predominance of hyperplasia of muscle fibers compared to the typically colored trout. It was shown that trout rearing using NPP cooling ponds does not lead to excessive accumulation internal fat and gives good results.
Qualitative and quantitative parameters of the dynamics of the steering network of elementary watercourses in the northern forest-steppe in the XXI century (on the example of the catchment basin of the Ketarsha river, Privolzhskaya upland, Russia)
Authors: Astashin Andrej , Badin Mihail , Vatina Ol’ga , Podkovyrina Valeriya , Ogurtcov Aleksandr
Published: December 2023

The article presents the results of researching the dynamics of the length of the channel network of elementary watercourses in the north of the forest-steppe zone in the XXI century. The research was conducted on the territory of the catchment basin of the Ketarsha River of the Privolzhskaya Upland, characterized by a high degree of anthropogenic transformation. The research is based on the materials of the expedition work, carried out in the summer of 2023, the results of geoinformation analysis of remote sensing data, topographic maps and literary sources. The fact of reducing the length of the channel network of elementary watercourses in 2023 compared to 2001 has been established. During the expedition work in 2023, the current position of the sources of elementary watercourses was established, based on comparison with the data of topographic maps of 2001, the direction of the change in the length of their channels was established and its quantitative indicators in the XXI century were calculated. In the conditions of actively plowed landscapes on the researched territory, there is a reduction in the length of the channel network of elementary watercourses.
Scientific and practical basis of assessing the impact of water-saving technologies on crop productivity and product quality
Authors: Shokhujaeva Zebo , Normamatov Ixtiyar
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this article is to develop suggestions and recommendations aimed at the effective use of water resources, taking into account the water shortage not only in Uzbekistan, but also in the world in the context of global climate change and water scarcity. Logical thinking, comparative and comparative analysis methods were used to explain the topic, and it was highlighted that the state’s support and encouragement in the use of water-saving technologies leads to rational and economical use of water. Research conducted by foreign scientists on how irrigation technology affects the yield of agricultural products the results obtained based on this were studied by the authors and suggestions were made.
Assessment of the possibility of using heat-insulating and energy-saving equipment
Authors: Guschin I.A.
Published: December 2023

The article deals with the problem of energy saving in the context of comparing contact heat exchangers. The advantages and disadvantages of various schemes are analyzed. It is proposed to use economizers of contact heat exchangers with active packing (HEAP) in boiler units of boiler houses. An analysis of the operation of one of the types of HEAP is given. The advantages of using HEAP with a two-circuit apparatus with a nozzle are considered. The main utilization plants and their parameters are described. Examples of the creation of designs for double-shell contact heat exchangers for the utilization of low-potential internal (side) energy resources (IER) are given. For branches of the chemical industry, a scheme of a scrubber-salt system using an intermediate heat carrier is proposed. The effective use of these devices for heating and humidifying air in ventilation and air conditioning systems is noted. The pros and cons of contact heat exchangers are considered in the framework of increasing the efficiency and environmental friendliness of the schemes. The ways of further increasing the efficiency of HEAP are consid
Antenna With Corner Reflector Based on Solar Cells
Authors: Barannikov Ilya , Egorova Evgeniya , Fedorov Sergey , Ishchenko Evgeniy , Volodko Alexander , Zhuravlev Dmitriy
Published: December 2023

The work explores the possibility of forming a reflector for an antenna system based on solar panels. The reflector design is formed on the basis of two solar panels, which form a corner reflector. Conducted studies show that the use of solar panels as a reflector makes it possible to ensure a high level of antenna directivity, provide a wide range of operating frequencies, and also provide electricity generation based on green (carbon-free) energy technologies. The results obtained are confirmed by the results of electrodynamic modeling, as well as experimental measurements of the antenna layout. The developed design, thanks to the use of a planar antenna as an irradiator, made it possible to ensure a high level of electricity generation, since a small overlap of solar panels is ensured. The results of measurements and simulations are illustrated with pictures of radiation patterns, as well as measurements of the characteristics of electrical energy that the solar panel produces.
On the study of some geological structure models
Authors: Pavlova Alla , Telyatnikov Ilya
Published: December 2023

In this work, we study problems of harmonic vibrations of extended elastic structures with a coating. The studied boundary value problems can have different physical interpretations; in this case, they are considered as models of geological structures. We used two different coating models. The equation of a bending plate was chosen to describe one of them. The second type of coating is not a traditionally studied stringer or overlay, since it is characterized by several parameters of a two-dimensional deformable object. Further we have conducted a study of the properties for the substrate/coating system. Where numerical analysis showed us that the difference between the zero and pole curves for an elastic medium with a coating from the dispersion curves for an elastic medium without a coating is stronger the greater the thickness of the coating plate and the denser its material. The conclusions are valid for both plate models used. The models of lithospheric structures considered in this work make it possible to study the features of wave propagation in a three-dimensional deformable foundation with a two-dimensional coating, not only for continuous coatings, but also in the presence of vertical defects in them, as well as heterogeneous composite coatings. The presented approach can be extended to problems for heterogeneous substrates.
Facile Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles fromMesquite TreeLeaves for Refinery Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Devi Geetha , Al Shukaili Aysha Khalifa , Al Dgheishi Shaima Ahmed , Al Zakwani Nadra Ali
Published: December 2023

Green synthesis of nanoparticles has gained significant importance, and it has become the one of the most preferred synthesis methods.MesquiteorProsopis juliflorais an aggressive, thorny tree is threatening the ecology and has a negative impact on the environment, and animal health as it absorbs nutrients from soil, prevents the water flow inaflaj. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) frommesquiteleaf extract by green extraction technique for the refinery wastewater treatment applications. The AgNP’s are characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy Dispersive X - Ray Analysis (EDX), UV-visible spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses to determine the functional groups, morphology, and elemental composition. The synthesized AgNP’s are utilized for the treatment of refinery wastewater by performing a series of experiments by varying the processing parameters (pH, mixing duration, agitation speed, and dosage of nanoparticles) and the optimum treatment conditions were established. This research aims to convert themesquitetree leaves into a value added product, AgNP’s for the refinery wastewater treatment, thereby reduce its impact on the environment. Additionally, this research is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSD-6, clean water and sanitation) and also supports the Oman Vision 2040.
Cooperation choice in an online low-carbon supply chain
Authors: Li Guozheng , Xu Xinxin
Published: December 2023

This paper considers the cooperation strategies in an Online Selling Low-Carbon Supply Chain (OSLCSC). The manufacturer in OSLCSC establishes an online retailing channel based on a co-operative agency sales format. Three possible online collaboration strategies are considered. We analyze the final cooperative equilibrium and find that cooperation between the platform and manufacturer can promote the dual development of environmental benefit and over-all supply chain profit. But from an individual benefit perspective, the platform and manufacturer do not always have motivation to cooperate with each other, and it related to the revenue-sharing rate and market competition intensity. Furthermore, we reveal that non-cooperation strategy does not always lead to the worst outcome, and in some cases, cooperation between the retailer and platform will result in the lowest entire supply chain performance. Lastly, the results show that each cooperative strategy may be the ultimate equilibrium, and the three players in OSLCSC could achieve a Pareto optimal under the different cooperation strategies.
Editorial
Authors: Streber Rene , Peters Stefan
Published: December 2023

Liebe Leserinnen und Leser,

das Jahr neigt sich dem Ende zu. Wir wünschen Ihnen und Ihren Familien eine
frohe, besinnliche Weihnachtszeit und einen erfolgreichen Start in das neue Jahr
2024.
Ergebnisse der 4. Fachtagung Bewegungstherapie 2023
Authors: Streber Rene , Bestmann Anja , Brüggemann Silke , Göhner Wiebke , Heimsoth Jörg , Kinkel Stephan , Peters Stefan , Pfeifer Klaus , Reusch Andrea , Schaller Andrea , Sudeck Gorden , Geidl Wolfgang
Published: December 2023

Für die Sport- und Bewegungstherapie im Rahmen der medizinischen
Rehabilitation und der Nachsorge bieten digitale Technologien und Anwendungen
vielfältige Potenziale, um die Versorgung von Personen mit chronischen,
nicht-übertragbaren Erkrankungen zu optimieren. Die erfolgreiche
Exploration und Nutzbarmachung der verschiedenen Anwendungsszenarien im gesamten
Rehabilitationsprozess hängen jedoch von mehreren Voraussetzungen und
Bedingungen ab. Die Perspektiven der praktisch tätigen
Bewegungstherapeuten auf den facettenreichen Prozess der zunehmenden
Digitalisierung in der Rehabilitation wurden bislang kaum beleuchtet.

Vor diesem Hintergrund wurde das Thema Digitalisierung in der Sport- und
Bewegungstherapie im Rahmen der medizinischen Rehabilitation auf der 4.
Fachtagung der AG Bewegungstherapie der DGRW 2023 unter dem Titel
„Digital – Was und wie viel?“ aufgegriffen. Unter
mehreren Perspektiven und wissenschaftlich fundiert wurden Potenziale und
Anwendungsfelder, Risiken und Grenzen sowie Fragen der Implementation
bezüglich der Digitalisierung in der Sport- und Bewegungstherapie mit
den teilnehmenden Bewegungstherapeuten in einem interaktiven Workshop-Format mit
dem Motto: „Neue Wege in der Bewegungstherapie gestalten“
exploriert.

Dieser Artikel dient der Ergebnisdarstellung und Dokumentation der 4. Fachtagung
Bewegungstherapie 2023. Entlang des gesamten Rehabilitationsprozesses wurden von
den Teilnehmenden Anwendungsszenarien für die Phasen vor,
während und nach der Rehabilitation identifiziert. Es zeigte sich, dass
die Digitalisierung mehrere organisatorische, administrative sowie
therapeutische Prozesse unterstützen kann. Dabei sollten vor allem die
beteiligten Professionen und Rehabilitanden im Mittelpunkt stehen und
Befürchtungen und Vorbehalte der jeweiligen Akteure anerkannt und
gezielt aufgegriffen werden. Bezüglich der Implementation und der
hierfür notwendigen Ressourcen wurden die Ergebnisse anhand von vier
Perspektiven strukturiert herausgearbeitet: Rehabilitanden, Therapeuten, Technik
sowie Rehabilitationseinrichtung und Reha-System.

Die Ergebnisse der 4. Fachtagung Bewegungstherapie bilden einen wichtigen
Orientierungspunkt für die anstehenden Digitalisierungsprozesse der
medizinischen Rehabilitation mit besonderem Blick auf die Sport- und
Bewegungstherapie. Sie können einen Beitrag zu deren
Qualitätsentwicklung leisten und eine systematische Weiterentwicklung
einer mit digitalen Elementen unterstützten Sport- und Bewegungstherapie
im Rahmen der medizinischen Rehabilitation anstoßen.
Platelets: Physiology and Biochemistry
Authors: Jurk Kerstin , Kehrel Beate E.
Published: December 2023

This article represents a republication of an article originally published in STH in 2005. This republication is to help celebrate 50 years of publishing for STH. The original abstract follows.

Platelets are specialized blood cells that play central roles in physiologic and pathologic processes of hemostasis, inflammation, tumor metastasis, wound healing, and host defense. Activation of platelets is crucial for platelet function that includes a complex interplay of adhesion and signaling molecules. This article gives an overview of the activation processes involved in primary and secondary hemostasis, for example, platelet adhesion, platelet secretion, platelet aggregation, microvesicle formation, and clot retraction/stabilization. In addition, activated platelets are predominantly involved in cross-talk to other blood and vascular cells. Stimulated “sticky” platelets enable recruitment of leukocytes at sites of vascular injury under high shear conditions. Platelet-derived microparticles as well as soluble adhesion molecules, sP-selectin and sCD40L, shed from the surface of activated platelets, are capable of activating, in turn, leukocytes and endothelial cells. This article focuses further on the new view of receptor-mediated thrombin generation of human platelets, necessary for the formation of a stable platelet–fibrin clot during secondary hemostasis. Finally, special emphasis is placed on important stimulatory and inhibitory signaling pathways that modulate platelet function.
A Critical Reappraisal of the Bleeding Time
Authors: Rodgers R. P. Channing , Levin Jack
Published: December 2023

Seminars in Thrombosis and Hemostasis (STH) celebrates 50 years of publishing in 2024. To celebrate this landmark event, STH is republishing some archival material. This manuscript represents the second most highly cited paper ever published in STH. The manuscript published without an abstract, and essentially represented a State of the Art Review on the bleeding time, a relatively invasive procedure that required an incision on the skin or earlobe of a patient, and timing how long it took for the incision to stop bleeding. The bleeding time test was first described in 1901 by the French physician Milian, who presented three studies of bleeding from stab wounds made in the fingertips of healthy and diseased subjects. In 1910, Duke observed the duration of bleeding from small incisions of the ear lobe, and pointed out that the duration of bleeding was increased in instances of reduced platelet counts. The test was subsequently repeatedly modified, and numerous variants of the test, including semiautomated methods, were described by several workers. The most frequently utilised test reflected one described by Ivy and coworkers, who shifted the location of the incision to the volar aspect of the forearm and applied a blood pressure cuff to the arm to maintain a standard venous pressure. The bleeding time has been proposed for use as a diagnostic test for platelet-related bleeding disorders, a measure of efficacy in various forms of therapy, and as a prognosticator of abnormal bleeding. The authors to the current review reevaluated the bleeding time literature using methods to assess the performance of the test in 1990, locating 862 printed documents that discussed the bleeding time, the majority in peer-reviewed professional journals. As this is a republication of archival material, transformed into a modern format, we apologise in advance for any errors introduced during this transformation.
Description of an In Vitro Platelet Function Analyzer—PFA-100™
Authors: Kundu Sourav K. , Heilmann Eric J. , Sio Reynaldo , Garcia Carmen , Davidson Rosa M. , Ostgaard Roy A.
Published: December 2023

This manuscript represents a republication of a manuscript originally published in STH in 1995. This republication is to help celebrate 50 years of publishing for STH. The original abstract follows.

A new in vitro system for the detection of platelet dysfunction, PFA-100®, has been developed. It provides a quantitative measure of platelet function in anticoagulated whole blood. The system comprises a microprocessor-controlled instrument and a disposable test cartridge containing a biologically active membrane. The instrument aspirates a blood sample under constant vacuum from the sample reservoir through a capillary and a microscopic aperture cut into the membrane. The membrane is coated with collagen and epinephrine or adenosine 5′-diphosphate. The presence of these biochemical stimuli, and the high shear rates generated under the standardized flow conditions, result in platelet attachment, activation, and aggregation, slowly building a stable platelet plug at the aperture. The time required to obtain full occlusion of the aperture is reported as the “closure time.” We have found that impairment of von Willebrand factor, or inhibition of platelet receptors glycoprotein Ib or IIb/IIIa with monoclonal antibodies or peptides, resulted in abnormal closure times. An antifibrinogen antibody, in contrast, failed to show any effect. The test appears to be sensitive to platelet adherence and aggregation abnormalities. The PFA-100® system has potential applications in routine evaluation of platelet function in the clinical setting because of its accuracy, case of operation, and rapid turnaround of results.
Are optimistic CEOs and pessimistic CFOs the best partners? Evidence from corporate cash holdings
Authors: Zeng Huixiang , Zheng Limin , Li Xiaoyu , Zhang Yutong , Chen Linrong
Published: December 2023

Based on the perspective of corporate cash holdings, this paper explores whether the combination of an optimistic CEO and a pessimistic CFO creates the “best partners”. Taking the non-financial A-share listed firms in China from 2010 to 2018 as the sample, ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analysis was used as the baseline approach to empirically test, for the first time, the comprehensive influence of CEO optimism and CFO pessimism on corporate cash holdings. The empirical results show that firms with an optimistic CEO and a pessimistic CFO will hold less cash. Moreover, this negative compound effect is found to be more significant in regions with a strong gambling culture and in non-state-owned enterprises (non-SOEs). Further analysis reveals that whether the CFO sits on the board of directors and the educational level difference between the CEO and CFO are also essential factors restricting this negative compound effect. This study provides a new perspective for relevant research on upper echelons theory, and also enriches relevant research on the factors influencing corporate cash holdings.
The relationship between interdisciplinarity and citation impact—a novel perspective on citation accumulation
Authors: Cai Xiaojing , Lyu Xiaozan , Zhou Ping
Published: December 2023

Interdisciplinary research is of significance for creating breakthroughs and facilitating innovations and may achieve higher citation impact, although contrary results still exist. The current study looks into the relationship between interdisciplinarity and citation impact from a brand-new perspective—the process of citation accumulation—by exploring how interdisciplinarity, as measured by Rao-Stirling and DIV, affects the accumulating process of citations, based on scientific papers published by Chinese or US authors in 2009–2011 in Chemistry. Two metrics are used to measure how long it takes for a paper to reach its citation peak (PEAK_YEAR) and how sustainable the citation impact remains after the peak (SUS). The results show that compared with Rao-Stirling, DIV is more sensitive to the length of the citation window and more closely aligned with the nature of interdisciplinarity. In Chemistry, higher interdisciplinarity is more likely to encounter delayed recognition and greater citation sustainability, which may explain the inconsistency in the relationship between interdisciplinarity and citation impact. In conclusion, it is necessary to consider the length of the citation window when explaining the relationship between interdisciplinarity and citation impact. A longer citation window may be a better solution, as an alternative or supplement, in assessing the academic performance of interdisciplinary research.
Frequency combs in optically injected terahertz ring quantum cascade lasers
Authors: Khan Md Istiak , Xiao Zhenyang , Addamane Sadhvikas J. , Burghoff David
Published: December 2023

Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) have emerged as promising candidates for generating chip-scale frequency combs in mid-infrared and terahertz wavelengths. In this work, we demonstrate frequency comb formation in ring terahertz QCLs using the injection of light from a distributed feedback (DFB) laser. The DFB design frequency is chosen to match the modes of the ring cavity (near 3.3 THz), and light from the DFB is injected into the ring QCL via a bus waveguide. By controlling the power and frequency of the optical injection, we show that combs can be selectively formed and controlled in the ring cavity. Numerical modeling suggests that this comb is primarily frequency-modulated in character, with the injection serving to trigger comb formation. We also show that the ring can be used as a filter to control the output of the DFB QCL, potentially being of interest in terahertz photonic integrated circuits. Our work demonstrates that waveguide couplers are a compelling approach for injecting and extracting radiation from ring terahertz combs and offer exciting possibilities for the generation of new comb states in terahertz, such as frequency-modulated waves, solitons, and more.
Calcium influx promotes PLEKHG4B localization to cell–cell junctions and regulates the integrity of junctional actin filaments
Authors: Ninomiya Komaki , Ohta Kai , Kawasaki Ukyo , Chiba Shuhei , Inoue Takanari , Kuranaga Erina , Ohashi Kazumasa , Mizuno Kensaku
Published: December 2023

PLEKHG4B is a Cdc42-targeting guanine-nucleotide exchange factor implicated in forming epithelial cell–cell junctions. Here we explored the mechanism regulating PLEKHG4B localization. PLEKHG4B localized to the basal membrane in normal Ca2+medium but accumulated at cell–cell junctions upon ionomycin treatment. Ionomycin-induced junctional localization of PLEKHG4B was suppressed upon disrupting its annexin-A2 (ANXA2)-binding ability. Thus, Ca2+influx and ANXA2 binding are crucial for PLEKHG4B localization to cell–cell junctions. Treatments with low Ca2+or BAPTA-AM (an intracellular Ca2+chelator) suppressed PLEKHG4B localization to the basal membrane. Mutations of the phosphoinositide-binding motif in the pleckstrin homology (PH) domain of PLEKHG4B or masking of membrane phosphatidylinositol-4,5-biphosphate [PI(4,5)P2] suppressed PLEKHG4B localization to the basal membrane, indicating that basal membrane localization of PLEKHG4B requires suitable intracellular Ca2+levels and PI(4,5)P2binding of the PH domain. Activation of mechanosensitive ion channels (MSCs) promoted PLEKHG4B localization to cell–cell junctions, and their inhibition suppressed it. Moreover, similar to the PLEKHG4B knockdown phenotypes, inhibition of MSCs or treatment with BAPTA-AM disturbed the integrity of actin filaments at cell–cell junctions. Taken together, our results suggest that Ca2+influx plays crucial roles in PLEKHG4B localization to cell–cell junctions and the integrity of junctional actin organization, with MSCs contributing to this process.
Dupsifter: a lightweight duplicate marking tool for whole genome bisulfite sequencing
Authors: Morrison Jacob , Zhou Wanding , Johnson Benjamin K , Shen Hui
Published: December 2023

In whole genome sequencing data, polymerase chain reaction amplification results in duplicate DNA fragments coming from the same location in the genome. The process of preparing a whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) library, on the other hand, can create two DNA fragments from the same location that should not be considered duplicates. Currently, only one WGBS-aware duplicate marking tool exists. However, it only works with the output from a single tool, does not accept streaming input or output, and requires a substantial amount of memory relative to the input size. Dupsifter provides an aligner-agnostic duplicate marking tool that is lightweight, has streaming capabilities, and is memory efficient.

Availability and implementation

Source code and binaries are freely available at https://github.com/huishenlab/dupsifter under the MIT license. Dupsifter is implemented in C and is supported on macOS and Linux.
Minimally invasive segmentectomy and lobectomy for peripheral stage IA1–2 non-small-cell lung cancer: a case-matched cohort study from a UK Centre
Authors: Brunelli Alessandro , Rushwan Amr , Stefanou Demetrios , Drosos Polivious , Chaudhuri Nilanjan , Milton Richard , Tcherveniakov Peter , Papagiannopoulos Kostas , Valuckiene Laura
Published: December 2023

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study is to compare in a real-world series the short- and long-term results of segmentectomy and lobectomy for peripheral clinical stage IA non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

Single-centre cohort study including a series of consecutive patients undergoing minimally invasive segmentectomy or lobectomy for peripheral (outer third of the lung) clinical stage IA NSCLC (January 2017–August 2022). Propensity score case matching analysis generated 2 matched groups of patients undergoing segmentectomy or lobectomy. Short-term (morbidity and mortality) and long-term [overall survival and event-free survival (EFS)] outcomes were compared between the 2 matched groups. EFS was calculated by including death resulting from any cause and any recurrence as events.

RESULTS

Propensity score generated 118 pairs of patients undergoing minimally invasive segmentectomy or lobectomy. The median follow-up was 30 months (95% confidence limits (CL) 4–64). The median postoperative length of stay was 4 days in both groups. Ninety-day mortality was similar (segmentectomy 2.5% versus lobectomy 1.7%, P = 1). Three-year overall survival [segmentectomy 87% (76–93) versus lobectomy 81% (72–88), P = 0.73] and EFS [segmentectomy 82% (72–90) versus lobectomy 78% (68–84), P = 0.52] did not differ between the groups. Loco-regional recurrence rate [segmentectomy 4.2% (5/118) versus lobectomy 9.3% (11/118), P = 0.19] was similar despite a lower nodal upstaging [segmentectomy 3.4% (4/118) versus lobectomy 14% (17/118), P = 0.005]. The occurrence of compromised resection margins (pR1 or pR uncertain) was similar between the groups [segmentectomy 7.6% (9/118) versus lobectomy 9.3% (11/118), P = 0.81].

CONCLUSIONS

This observational series confirms the non-inferiority of segmentectomy compared to lobectomy in treating peripherally located stage IA NSCLC.
A new species of stygobitic Hyalella Smith, 1874 (Amphipoda: Hyalellidae) from Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, Nevada, USA, with discussion of the unique presence of the species in the Nearctic groundwater fauna
Authors: Cannizzaro Andrew G , Lange Corey J , Berg David J
Published: December 2023

A new species of stygobitic hyalellid amphipod, Hyalella cretaen. sp., is described from Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, Nye County, Nevada, USA, based on both morphological and molecular comparisons to congeners. These data identify H. cretaen. sp. as distinct when compared to allied species. Along with the similar Hyalella muertaBaldinger, Shepard & Threloff, 2000, H. cretaen. sp. marks the second described stygobitic species of Hyalella from the Nearctic. The occurrence of the genus in groundwater in the Nearctic is enigmatic, especially when compared to other more wide-ranging stygobites (e.g., Stygobromus spp., Hadziidae spp.). The biogeographic implications of the occurrence of species like H. muerta and H. cretaen. sp. in relation to other Nearctic stygobites is discussed.
Exploration of adverse consequences of total knee arthroplasty by patients and knee specialists: a qualitative study
Authors: te Molder Malou E M , Vriezekolk Johanna E , van Onsem Stefaan , Smolders José M H , Heesterbeek Petra J C , van den Ende Cornelia H M
Published: December 2023

Objectives

A successful outcome according to the knee specialist is not a guarantee for treatment success as perceived by patients. In this study, we aimed to explore outcome expectations and experiences of patients with OA before and after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery and knee specialists that might contribute to the negative appraisal of its effect, and differences in views between patients and knee specialists.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were held in Belgium and the Netherlands. Twenty-five patients (2 without indications for TKA, 11 on the waiting list for TKA and 12 postoperative TKA) and 15 knee specialists (9 orthopaedic surgeons, 1 physician assistant, 1 nurse practitioner and 4 physiotherapists) were interviewed. Conversations were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using thematic analysis following the grounded theory approach. Separate analyses were conducted for patients and knee specialists.

Results

Patients were focused on the arduous process of getting used to the prosthesis, lingering pain, awareness of the artificial knee and limitations they experience during valued and daily activities, whereas knee specialists put emphasis on surgical failure, unexplained pain, limited walking ability and impairments that limit the physical functioning of patients.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive overview of potential adverse consequences from the perspective of both patients and knee specialists. Improving patients’ awareness and expectations of adaptation to the knee prosthesis needs to be considered.
Estimation of diagnostic reference levels for pediatric head computed tomography in Yaoundé
Authors: Kamdem Eddy F , Fotue Alain J , Kouam Brice B F , Abogo Serge , Samba Odette N
Published: December 2023

The diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) are determined from dosimetry studies to compare and manage patient doses in medical imaging procedures. The aim of this work was to establish the first DRLs for pediatric patients during the most common computed tomography (CT) procedures in Yaoundé, Cameroon during routine head CT examinations to know how to improve our clinical practice tomorrow. The sample was classified per age group: ≤ 1-, 1–5-, 5–10- and 10–15-y-old. The retrospective study was used. The proposed DRLs were defined as 75th percentile of the median values of the distributions. In terms of Volume CT Dose Index (CTDIvol) and dose length product (DLP), the DRLs obtained for the ages groups were: 28.6 mGy and 545.8 mGy.cm, 32.6 mGy and 735 mGy.cm, 37.1 mGy and 761.6 mGy.cm and 44.2 mGy and 1081.2 mGy.cm, respectively. DRLs in Yaoundé for DLP were higher than those of comparison literatures. The Yaoundé CTDIvol was higher than the comparison literatures except for the IAEA (2015) values for the three older age groups. The DRLs reported in Yaoundé were compared to Morocco 2020, Switzerland 2018, IAEA 2015 and Iran 2020 values. The estimation of this first DRL for pediatric head CT scan in Yaoundé must be a starting point to spread this investigation towards other examinations and imaging modalities across the country. Therefore, optimization of the CT scan procedures and orderly updates of local DRLs are necessary to improve radioprotection.
Dose effect of Actisaf Sc 47 yeast probiotic (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) supplementation on production, reproduction, and negative energy balance in early lactation dairy cows
Authors: Kumprechtová Dana , Legendre Héloïse , Kadek Romana , Nenov Valentin , Briche Maxime , Salah Nizar , Illek Josef
Published: December 2023

The study evaluated the dose effect of dietary supplementation with yeast probiotic Saccharomyces cerevisiae (CNCM I-4407, 1010 CFU/g, Actisaf Sc 47; Phileo by Lesaffre, France) on production, energy metabolism, and reproduction in lactating dairy cows. About 117 multiparous Holstein cows from 3 to 60 d in milk held in a barn with an automatic milking system were enrolled in a randomized complete block design and blocked according to calving day, parity, and previous milk yield. The cows were assigned to a basal diet (15% CP, 22% starch) plus either 5 g (Y5 group, n = 39), 10 g (Y10 group, n = 39), or 0 g (CON, n = 39) of yeast probiotic, presented on top of concentrate fed in the robot. Milk yield and body weight were recorded daily, milk composition, and somatic cell count (SSC) every 2 wk, and body condition score (BCS) was estimated at days −14, 14, and 40 post-calving. Data were analyzed using a linear mixed model. The Y10 group showed an increased average daily yield of energy-corrected milk (ECM) over CON (+3.5 kg, P < 0.05) and Y5 (+0.8 kg). There were no significant differences between the groups in milk fat, milk protein, milk SCC linear score, milk urea, blood beta-hydroxy-butyric acid levels, and BCS. Body weight loss from 3 to 90 d in milk was numerically lower (13.8 kg) in Y5 than in CON (25.3 kg), and the success rate from the first insemination was the highest in YP5 and YP10 groups (39%) than in Control (26%). The yeast probiotic supplementation to early lactation high-producing dairy cows showed a clear effect of the high dose (10 g) on ECM milk production, although the lower dose (5 g) showed only numerical ECM production increase, both doses displayed better use of energy from the diet than the control and suggest a better resource efficiency.
Revision of Failed Nonanatomic Extensor Retinacular Stabilization of the Unstable ECU Tendon: Surgical Technique and Case Series
Authors: Jones Stuart W. , Campbell Fiona C. , Campbell Douglas A.
Published: December 2023

Nonanatomic surgical stabilization of the unstable extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendon (where the subluxing tendon is re-routed away from the bony groove in the distal ulna) utilizes a flap of extensor retinaculum to create a new retaining sheath that will stabilize the tendon during forearm rotation movements. When this surgery fails, the extensor retinaculum tissue does not regenerate with sufficient structural strength to be used again. Previously, a different approach has then been needed for revision surgery, often using more complex surgical techniques with a substantially greater impact on recovery. We describe a highly reliable yet simple method of using local soft tissue to adequately restabilize the subluxing ECU tendon in cases where an extensor retinacular flap has already been used. We report the results of this technique in 4 patients, all of whom returned to jobs/hobbies where ECU instability was a considerable functional risk.
The Telltale Botox: Botulinum Toxin Injection by an Expert Hand as an Intracranial Aneurysm Detector
Authors: Caddia Giorgio , Jaber Giulio J. , Granata Francesca , Galletta Karol , Pitrone Antonio , La Spina Paolino , Stagno d’Alcontres Ferdinando , Stagno d’Alcontres Francesco
Published: December 2023

Complications in aesthetic medicine can be considered a consequence of the inexperience of the performing physician, but in some cases, they can unveil far more serious conditions, hitherto silent. We present a case of a 48-year-old patient who, following botulinum toxin type A (Botox) injection for treatment of forehead wrinkles, returned to our attention 12 days later for a discrete, newly onset right eyelid ptosis. This ptosis was a telltale sign of the presence of an intracranial aneurysm closely related with the oculomotor nerve. The lack of compensatory action by the frontalis muscle in maintaining the eyelid in position allowed us to highlight the extrinsic compression deficit of the oculomotor nerve. Subsequently, the patient underwent endovascular treatment of the aneurysm, leading to complete resolution of the case.
Can AI Think Like a Plastic Surgeon? Evaluating GPT-4’s Clinical Judgment in Reconstructive Procedures of the Upper Extremity
Authors: Leypold Tim , Schäfer Benedikt , Boos Anja , Beier Justus P.
Published: December 2023

This study delves into the potential application of OpenAI’s Generative Pretrained Transformer 4 (GPT-4) in plastic surgery, with a particular focus on procedures involving the hand and arm. GPT-4, a cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) model known for its advanced chat interface, was tested on nine surgical scenarios of varying complexity. To optimize the performance of GPT-4, prompt engineering techniques were used to guide the model’s responses and improve the relevance and accuracy of its output. A panel of expert plastic surgeons evaluated the responses using a Likert scale to assess the model’s performance, based on five distinct criteria. Each criterion was scored on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 representing the highest possible score. GPT-4 demonstrated a high level of performance, achieving an average score of 4.34 across all cases, consistent across different complexities. The study highlights the ability of GPT-4 to understand and respond to complicated surgical scenarios. However, the study also identifies potential areas for improvement. These include refining the prompts used to elicit responses from the model and providing targeted training with specialized, up-to-date sources. This study demonstrates a new approach to exploring large language models and highlights potential future applications of AI. These could improve patient care, refine surgical outcomes, and even change the way we approach complex clinical scenarios in plastic surgery. However, the intrinsic limitations of AI in its current state, together with the potential ethical considerations and the inherent uncertainty of unanticipated issues, serve to reiterate the indispensable role and unparalleled value of human plastic surgeons.
CHOROIDAL OSTEOMA IN AN INFANT
Authors: Eder Adrianna E. , Bostwick Karina , Wells Jill R. , Hubbard G. Baker
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to describe a case of choroidal osteoma with macular involvement in an infant who was treated with transpupillary thermotherapy.

Methods:

This was a case report.

Results:

An 11-month-old infant presented for retinopathy of prematurity follow-up examination and was found to have a three disk-diameter round, orange, subretinal, slightly elevated lesion with well-defined margins in the superior macula of the left eye. B-scan ultrasonography showed a slightly elevated, highly reflective choroidal mass with acoustic shadowing. A diagnosis of choroidal osteoma was made. Six months later, repeat examination under anesthesia showed the lesion to be increasing in size and encroaching on the fovea. Given demonstrated growth and the risk of central vision loss, the patient was treated with transpupillary thermotherapy. Subsequent EUAs, over a period of 4 months, have shown complete decalcification with no subsequent growth.

Conclusion:

Choroidal osteomas are benign lesions that can be sight-threatening if located in the macula. Transpupillary thermotherapy in this case resulted in complete regression of a sight-threatening extrafoveal choroidal osteoma at 4-month follow-up.
ANCA-associated vasculitis: overview and practical issues of diagnosis and therapy from a European perspective
Authors: Duarte Ana Catarina , Ribeiro Rui , Macedo Ana M. , Santos Maria José
Published: December 2023

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)–associated vasculitis (AAV) is a heterogeneous group of rare diseases characterized by necrotizing inflammation predominantly of small vessels and the presence of these circulating antibodies. AAV comprises three important diseases, namely granulomatosis with polyangiitis, microscopic polyangiitis, and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, which affect multiple organ systems, significantly affecting patients' quality of life and survival. The diagnosis is established according to the clinical manifestations, detectable ANCA, and histopathology findings. Primary treatment strategies are adapted to the severity of the disease and based on immunosuppression with corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide, with increasing adoption of new, less toxic agents aimed at sustained remission of the disease, such as rituximab, methotrexate, and mycophenolate mofetil. Several international medical organizations have proposed recommendations for diagnosing and managing these diseases to standardize the procedures. In this study, we provide an up-to-date European perspective on AAV management, compiling current and relevant information regarding its epidemiology, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment strategies, and prognosis.
COVID-19 spreading patterns in family clusters reveal gender roles in China
Authors: Liao Jingyi , Liu Xiao Fan , Xu Xiao-Ke , Zhou Tao
Published: December 2023

Understanding different gender roles forms part of the efforts to reduce gender inequality. This paper analyses COVID-19 family clusters outside Hubei Province in mainland China during the 2020 outbreak, revealing significant differences in spreading patterns across gender and family roles. Results show that men are more likely to be the imported cases of a family cluster, and women are more likely to be infected within the family. This finding provides new supportive evidence of the ‘men as breadwinner and women as homemaker’ (MBWH) gender roles in China. Further analyses reveal that the MBWH pattern is stronger in eastern than in western China, stronger for younger than for elder people. This paper offers not only valuable references for formulating gender-differentiated epidemic prevention policies but also an exemplification for studying group differences in similar scenarios.
Matrix factorizations and pentagon maps
Authors: Kassotakis Pavlos
Published: December 2023

We propose a specific class of matrices that participate in factorization problems that turn out to be equivalent to constant and entwining (non-constant) pentagon, reverse-pentagon or Yang–Baxter maps, expressed in non-commutative variables. In detail, we show that factorizations of order

N
=
2

matrices of this specific class are equivalent to the
homogeneous normalization map
. From order

N
=
3

matrices, we obtain an extension of the homogeneous normalization map, as well as novel entwining pentagon, reverse-pentagon and Yang–Baxter maps.
Determinants of successful mitigation in coupled social-climate dynamics
Authors: Shu Longmei , Fu Feng
Published: December 2023

Understanding the impact of human behaviour is crucial for successful mitigation of climate change across the globe. To shed light onto this issue, here we couple the forest dieback model with human behaviours. Using evolutionary game theory, we build a time-delay system where forest growth is impacted by both temperature and human mitigation choices, the latter being informed by temperature forecasts. Simulations of the coupled system over 200 years show us the varying outcomes: forest dies out and no one is a mitigator, forest dies out and everyone is a mitigator, or the forest survives and everyone is a mitigator. There exist rare cases where no one is a mitigator and yet the forest survives, but with a low coverage. We also find occasional oscillations where the proportion of mitigators vary between 0 and 1. Our results are based on simple models but have profound insights into determinants of behaviour changes desired in social-climate dynamics.