bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of ecological pollution of heavy metals in surface soils of different sites within northwest of iraq
Authors: Al Lami Muwafaq H. , Jawad Al Obaidy Abdul Hameed M. , Al Sudani Ibrahim M.
Published: July 2021

Heavy metals pollution in surface soils of different urban areas in northwest Iraq were investigated. Correlation between screened metals’ spatial distribution (33 elements) and point and non-point pollution sources were performed. Obtained results showed that the levels of 15 elements (Hg, Ag, Cd, Sb, Sr, Ti, Mo, Rb, Sc, Zn, Ni, Cr, Cs, Te and Ca) exceeded the reference values of urban soil constituents. Higher observed levels of these metals, indicating that the urban soils of the studied areas are enriched with these contaminants. Further, higher concentrations of some “unexpected” toxic metals were detected in the studied locations. Estimated correlation coefficients of metal concentrations suggested three potential sources for soil pollution by heavy metals in the surveyed region. Different industrial activities, dominated by petroleum and petrochemical industries, are likely to be responsible for the releases of many heavy metals, e.g. Ni, Cr and Cu. Military activities were considered an important source for some toxic metals, e.g. Zr, Rb, V, and As, since these metals were observed at high levels in the studied sites. Trace metals such as Cu, Pb, Zn are found to be correlated with agricultural practices. However, the higher observed concentration of Ca in the surveyed locations can be attributed to natural processes’ impact. Overall, this research’s outcomes can be useful for the policymaking efforts dedicated to solving complex environmental problems related to soil pollution and being a guide for soil quality in northwest Iraq.
Experimental and numerical study on the degradation of mefenamic acid in a synthetic wastewater
Authors: Alwasiti Asawer A. , Shnain Zainb Y. , Abid Mohammad F. , Abdul Razak Adnan A. , Abdulhussein Basheer A. , Mahdi Gaidaa S.
Published: July 2021

The present work aims to study the degradation of mefenamic acid (MFA) in synthetic wastewater experimentally and numerically. The experiments were carried out using utilizing homemade Cu doped TiO2 in a solar irradiated falling film reactor. Two operating variables are investigated; pH of the wastewater in the range of (3-10) and synthesis wastewater flow rate (1-3 L/min). The numerical study involves the optimization of the variables. The multifactorial design method, Design of Experiments (DOE), and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) were used to evaluate the interaction effect of the two variables on the degradation of mefenamic acid. The significance of 0the results was evaluated by statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results show that the removal efficiency increasing with increasing pH and decreases with wastewater flow rate. The results have shown that the interaction effects between mentioned factors were highly significant in influencing MFA degradation by analyzing statistics and ANOVA.
Design of vertical slot fish ladder: review paper
Authors: Hameed Iman H. , Hilo Ali N.
Published: July 2021

Fish ladders are structures that are designed and constructed at water barriers, such as dams, to assist fish to migrate and complete their life cycle between different habitats without interruption or delay. The design of the fish ladders is considered a complicated process. It depends on two essential aspects; the biological and environmental nature of the fish. Consequently, hydraulic parameters such as velocity, turbulent kinetic energy, and flow patterns have to be designed to suit the fish’s capabilities without affecting it. This study is dedicated to performing an overview of the design of one of the most common fish ladders, the vertical slot fish ladder. A brief on an empirical and numerical design method is presented first. Then, a review of the recent literature on the vertical slot fish ladder design is explored. From reviewing several works on the design of the vertical slot fish ladder, it was found that important design parameters, such as the velocity of the flow, the turbulence, the slope of the fish ladder channel, have already been investigated in previous studies. However, it was observed that other important parameters, such as the slot angle, have not been investigated or explored in the literature. It is predicted that this parameter has a vital influence on the velocity of the flow inside the fish ladder which controls all other design parameters.
Ionic Liquid Solvents as Advanced Treatment Method for CO2 Control: A Review Research
Authors: Sayar Shumous S. , Mohammed Thamer J. , Karim Abdul Mun’em Abbas
Published: July 2021

Climate change issues have risen in recent years due to human activities produce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. By 2021, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change predicts a temperature increase of 1.9 °C. CO2 reduction is crucial for humans and all other forms of life on Earth. To mitigate this potential issue, immediate improvements in CO2 separation processes are needed. One of the most efficient methods in separating it is to use water amine chemical absorption as an ionic liquid solvent. Therefore, this paper addresses common solvents used in this respect, such as alkanolamine, ionic liquid and their mixed aqueous solutions in the absorption process. The success factors in the mass are the transfer phenomenon between CO2 and solvent. The physical factors were examined, and the chemical properties of liquid ionic solvents were examined.
Simulation of Syngas Addition Effect on Emissions Characteristics, Combustion, and Performance of the Diesel Engine Working under Dual Fuel Mode and Lambda Value of 1.6.
Authors: Mahmood Hussein A. , Al-Sulttani Ali O. , Attia Osam H.
Published: July 2021

The present work aims to study the combustion characteristics related to syngas-diesel dual-fuel engine operates at lambda value of 1.6 operated by five different replacement ratios (RR) of syngas with diesel, which are (10%, 20%, 30 %, 40 % and 50%). ANSYS Workbench (CFD) was used for simulating the combustion of the syngas-diesel dual-fuel engine. The numerical simulations were carried out on the Ricardo-Hydra diesel engine. The simulation results revealed that the diesel engine’s combustion efficiency was enhanced by increasing the diesel replacement with Syngas fuel. The diesel engine’s combustion efficiency The peak in-cylinder temperature was enhanced from 915.9K to 2790.5K (50% RR). Moreover, the peak pressure was improved from 3659073 Pa to 4525366 pa (23% increase), 4947790 pa (35% increase), 5929709Pa (62% increase) and 6708188 Pa (83%) for diesel fuel mode and dual fuel mode (20%, 30%, 40% and 50%) respectively. Moreover, CO, NO, and CO2 emissions in the engine increased with the increase in syngas’ replacement ratio with diesel. Besides, the emission levels of NO, CO2 and CO from a diesel engine are lower than a dual fuel engine (syngas-diesel). The NO mass fraction values rise from 2.02505E-19 at diesel mode to 0.000834126 (20% RR), 0.004176854 (30% RR), 0.005021933 (40% RR) and 0.007554865 (50% RR). Moreover, the CO2 mass fraction values increase from 5.90944E-07 at diesel mode to 0.033849446 (50% RR).
Substratum preferences of juvenile Red belly Tilapia (Coptodon zilli, Gervais, 1848)
Authors: Nasir Noori Abdul-Nabi
Published: July 2021

Substratum preferences of the young of Alien fish species known as Red belly Tilapia locally known Bultee (Coptodon zilli, Gervais, 1848) [1] with 30–40 mm TL were studied in the laboratory. The work tested the hypothesis that fishes vary in habitat preference and that they make use of the differences in substrates’ types within the water body in nature. Substratum preference for juvenile of C.zilli was calculated by the calculations of individuals noticed inside precise habitat kinds.

The fish species demonstrated significant changes in their substrate choices. Muddy sand appears to be usually more appropriate settlement ground for juvenile of this fish. Pebble, Gravel, Sand and Mud were less favorable. Plastic floor was unfavorable and the fish would generally settle in the other substrates preference to it. This work proposed that the particle size of the substrate influences settlement preference of the fish.
Proposed Urban Design of the Area Surrounding the Great Samarra Mosque
Authors: Hilal Maysoon Muhi , Al-badri Maan S. Mohammed
Published: July 2021

This research attempts to put a proposal Sustainable Design Development of the area around the Great Mosque & its Minaret, which it for many years has become a symbol of Iraqi architecture and its history as a result of the skill of Iraqi sculptors and architects in using local materials like bricks in their buildings. The research problem is a knowledge gap about the(SWOT) factors (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) that faced area.. While Research methodology is descriptive and analytical. The Reasons for selecting this project is to raise the percentage of tourism in the area. Subsequently, to grow a good economic city; in addition to the importance of Samarra civilization in making it a destination for tourism for tours, students, poets, and others because it includes many cultural landmarks and needs a space to attract tourists and be a cultural outlet for the city as well as a recreational site embraces their activities and meet their needs. To the archaeological importance of the area near Al-Malwaiya, to attract tourists in the city, and it helps to identify the city heritage.
Expiring Eviction Moratoriums and COVID-19 Incidence and Mortality
Authors: Leifheit Kathryn M , Linton Sabriya L , Raifman Julia , Schwartz Gabriel L , Benfer Emily A , Zimmerman Frederick J , Pollack Craig Evan
Published: July 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and associated economic crisis have placed millions of US households at risk of eviction. Evictions may accelerate COVID-19 transmission by decreasing individuals’ ability to socially distance. We leveraged variation in the expiration of eviction moratoriums in US states to test for associations between evictions and COVID-19 incidence and mortality. The study included 44 US states that instituted eviction moratoriums, followed from March 13 to September 3, 2020. We modeled associations using a difference-in-difference approach with an event-study specification. Negative binomial regression models of cases and deaths included fixed effects for state and week and controlled for time-varying indicators of testing, stay-at-home orders, school closures, and mask mandates. COVID-19 incidence and mortality increased steadily in states after eviction moratoriums expired, and expiration was associated with a doubling of COVID-19 incidence (incidence rate ratio = 2.1; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1, 3.9) and a 5-fold increase in COVID-19 mortality (mortality rate ratio = 5.4; CI: 3.1, 9.3) 16 weeks after moratoriums lapsed. These results imply an estimated 433,700 excess cases (CI: 365,200, 502,200) and 10,700 excess deaths (CI: 8,900, 12,500) nationally by September 3, 2020. The expiration of eviction moratoriums was associated with increased COVID-19 incidence and mortality, supporting the public-health rationale for eviction prevention to limit COVID-19 cases and deaths.
Assays for hyaluronidases and heparanase using nonreducing end fluorophore-labeled hyaluronan and heparan sulfate proteoglycan
Authors: Wu Zhengliang L , Ertelt James M
Published: July 2021

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), such as hyaluronan (HA) and heparan sulfate (HS), are a large group of polysaccharides found in the extracellular matrix and on the cell surface. The turnover of these molecules is controlled by de novo synthesis and catabolism through specific endoglycosidases, which are the keys to our understanding of the homeostasis of GAGs and could hold opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Herein, we describe assays for endoglycosidases using nonreducing end fluorophore-labeled GAGs, in which GAGs were labeled via incorporation of GlcNAz by specific synthases and cycloaddition of alkyne fluorophores and then digested with corresponding endoglycosidases. Assays of various HA-specific hyaluronidases (HYALs), including PH-20 or SPAM1, and HS-specific heparanase (HPSE) are presented. We demonstrated the distinctive pH profiles, substrate specificities and specific activities of these enzymes and provided evidence that both HYAL3 and HYAL4 are authentic hyaluronidases. In addition, while all HYALs are active on high-molecular-weight HA, they are active on low-molecular-weight HA. Subsequently, we defined a new way of measuring the activities of HYALs. Our results indicate that the activities of HYALs must be under strict pH regulation. Our quantitative methods of measuring the activity GAG endoglycosidases could bring the opportunity of designing novel therapeutics by targeting these important enzymes.
Biology Beyond the Classroom: Experiential Learning Through Authentic Research, Design, and Community Engagement
Authors: Hansen Alexandria K , Connors Patrice , Donnelly-Hermosillo Dermot , Full Robert , Hove Alisa , Lanier Hayley , Lent David , Nation Jasmine , Tucker Kimberly Pause , Ward Jennifer , Whitenack Lisa , Zavaleta Erika
Published: July 2021

This paper introduces the collection of manuscripts from the symposium, “Biology Beyond the Classroom: Experiential Learning through Authentic Research, Design, and Community Engagement,” presented at the 2021 annual meeting of the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology. The following papers showcase innovative approaches for engaging undergraduate students in experiential science learning experiences. Specifically, we focus on three high-impact practices that allow students to take their learning outside of the classroom for increased relevance and authenticity: (1) Course-Based Undergraduate Research, (2) Digital Fabrication in Makerspaces, and (3) Service or Community-based Learning Opportunities. Although each topic is unique, all provide an alternative approach to the traditional lecture and have proven effective at appealing to diverse groups of students who are traditionally underrepresented in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics workforce.
Enumeration of Unicuspidal Curves of Any Degree and Genus on Toric Surfaces
Authors: Ganor Yaniv , Shustin Eugenii
Published: July 2021

We enumerate complex curves on toric surfaces of any given degree and genus, having a single cusp and nodes as their singularities, and matching appropriately many point constraints. The solution is obtained via tropical enumerative geometry. The same technique applies to enumeration of real plane cuspidal curves: we show that, for any fixed $r\ge 1$ and $d\ge 2r+3$, there exists a generic real $2r$-dimensional linear family of plane curves of degree $d$ in which the number of real $r$-cuspidal curves is asymptotically comparable with the total number of complex $r$-cuspidal curves in the family, as $d\to \infty $.
Efficacy of phage therapy in pigs: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Desiree Karina , Mosimann Sabrina , Ebner Paul
Published: July 2021

Limits on the use and efficacy of various antibiotics coupled with negative consumer perception of the practice have together spurred substantial research into compounds that could reduce the use antibiotics to control bacterial diseases in pigs. Bacteriophages are often among such potential compounds, and various groups have examined the efficacy of bacteriophages or bacteriophage products in limiting transmission or colonization of targeted bacteria. The study presented here provides a systematic review of such studies followed by a meta-analysis of aggregated data produced by each study. The data set was limited to inputs (n = 19; 576 total observations) from studies where: 1) live pigs were inoculated with a known quantity of challenge bacteria; 2) challenged animals were treated with a known quantity of phages; 3) concentrations of the challenge bacteria were measured in different tissues/fluids following phage treatment; and 4) SD (or SE to allow calculation of SD) was reported. Concentrations of challenge bacteria were significantly lower in phage-treated pigs versus challenged but untreated pigs (P < 0.0001; effect size = −1.06 1log10 colony-forming units [CFU]/g). The effect size of phage treatment was significantly greater (P < 0.05) in samples collected 48 to 96 h following phage treatment versus those collected ≤ 24 h following phage treatment. Likewise, effect size of phage treatment was significantly greater in piglets versus market-weight pigs. Across observations, phage treatment effect sizes were greatest (P < 0.01) in fecal samples versus ileal or cecal samples. Taken together, these data indicate that phage treatment can significantly reduce the concentrations of targeted bacteria in pigs; scenarios exist, however, where phage treatment could predictably be more or less effective.
Modification of the Daily Activity Pattern of the Diurnal Triatomine Mepraia spinolai (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) Induced by Trypanosoma cruzi (Trypanosomatida: Trypanosomatidae) Infection
Authors: Pérez G , Muñoz-San Martín C , Chacón F , Bacigalupo A , Cattan P E , Solís R
Published: July 2021

Mepraia spinolai, (Porter) 1934, is a diurnal triatomine endemic to Chile and a wild vector of the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, (Chagas) 1909, which causes Chagas disease. Behavioral changes in M. spinolai induced by this parasite have been reported previously, which include detection of a potential host, defecation latency, and some life history traits. In this study we assessed changes in locomotor and daily activity due to infection with T. cruzi. No difference was detected in distance traveled between infected and uninfected individuals. However, the groups differed in their daily activity patterns; infected individuals showed significant reduction of movements during the light phase and concentrated their activity in the dark phase. Uninfected individuals showed no differences in locomotor activity between the phases. The results suggest that T. cruzi induces a displacement in the activity of M. spinolai toward the dark phase of the circadian cycle, which may improve its vector competence.
Is the lack of exploration by Petrobangla hurting Bangladesh? An analysis
Authors: Siddiky Chowdhury Ishrak Ahmed
Published: July 2021

A prolonged gas crisis has led to stagnation in Bangladesh’s manufacturing sector, which in turn has lowered the country’s GDP. Although 1000–1500 MW of installed power capacity remains idle, the government has not been able to use this redundant capacity to its advantage. To the dismay of many experts, new gas connections to meet industrial needs have been suspended for the last 8 years. This commentary explores the current exploration status of the natural gas sector in Bangladesh and concludes that the performance of various state-run companies will not be sufficient to meet the energy demands of Bangladesh’s economy.
Trauma, Teams, and Telemedicine: Evaluating Telemedicine and Teamwork in a Mass Casualty Simulation
Authors: Hughes Ashley M , Sonesh Shirley C , Mason Rachel E , Gregory Megan E , Marttos Antonio , Schulman Carl I , Salas Eduardo
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Mass casualty events (MASCAL) are on the rise globally. Although natural disasters are often unavoidable, the preparation to respond to unique patient demands in MASCAL can be improved. Utilizing telemedicine can allow for a better response to such disasters by providing access to a virtual team member with necessary specialized expertise. The purpose of this study was to examine the positive and/or negative impacts of telemedicine on teamwork in teams responding to MASCAL events.

Methods

We introduced a telemedical device (DiMobile Care) to Forward Surgical Teams during a MASCAL simulated training event. We assessed teamwork-related attitudes, behaviors, and cognitions during the MASCAL scenario through pre-post surveys and observations of use. Analyses compare users and nonusers of telemedicine and pre-post training differences in teamwork.

Results

We received 50 complete responses to our surveys. Overall, clinicians have positive reactions toward the potential benefits of telemedicine; further, participants report a significant decrease in psychological safety after training, with users rating psychological safety as significantly higher than non-telemedicine users. Neither training nor telemedicine use produced significant changes in cognitive and behavioral-based teamwork. Nonetheless, participants reported perceiving that telemedicine improved leadership and adaptive care plans.

Conclusions

Telemedicine shows promise in connecting Forward Surgical Teams with nuanced surgical expertise without harming quality of care metrics (i.e., teamwork). However, we advise future iterations of DiMobile Care and other telemedical devices to consider contextual features of information flow to ensure favorable use by teams in time-intensive, high-stakes environments, such as MASCAL.
Outcomes of COVID-19-Related ARDS Patients Hospitalized in a Military Field Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Danguy des Déserts Marc , Mathais Quentin , Morvan Jean Baptiste , Rager Gwendoline , Escarment Jacques , Pasquier Pierre
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Little evidence of outcome is available on critically ill Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients hospitalized in a field hospital. Our purpose was to report outcomes of critically ill COVID-19 patients after hospitalization in a field intensive care unit (ICU), established under military tents in a civil–military collaboration.

Methods

All patients with COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) admitted to the Military Health Service Field Intensive Care Unit in Mulhouse (France) between March 24, 2020, and May 7, 2020, were included in the study. Medical history and clinical and laboratory data were collected prospectively. The institutional review board of the French Society Anesthesia and Intensive Care approved the study.

Results

Forty-seven patients were hospitalized (37 men, median age 62 [54-67] years, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score 7 [6-10] points, and Simplified Acute Physiology Score II score 39 [28-50] points) during the 45-day deployment of the field ICU. Median length of stay was 11 [6-15] days and median length of ventilation was 13 [7.5-21] days. At the end of the deployment, 25 (53%) patients went back home, 17 (37%) were still hospitalized, and 4 (9%) died. At hospital discharge, 40 (85%) patients were alive.

Conclusion

In this study, a military field ICU joined a regional civil hospital to manage a large cluster of COVID-19-related ARDS patients in Mulhouse, France. This report illustrates how military teams can support civil authorities in the provision of advanced critical care. Outcomes of patient suggest that this field hospital deployment was an effective adaptation during pandemic conditions.
A National Public Health Workforce to Control COVID-19 and Address Health Disparities in the United States
Authors: Kilmarx Peter H , Long Theodore , Reid Michael J A
Published: July 2021

A large, well-trained public health workforce is needed to control coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the United States in the short term and to address other disease burdens and health disparities in the long run. As the public health workforce declined following the 2008 financial crisis, many US jurisdictions struggled to hire a sufficient number of staff for roles initially including testing and contact tracing and more recently for vaccination. Ultimately, COVID-19 control will require a combination of vaccination and rapid investigation, contact tracing, and quarantine to stop chains of transmission. New federal resources for a public health workforce have been made available. With appropriate attention to addressing administrative barriers and ensuring equity, a 21st-century US public health workforce will hasten the control of COVID-19, provide economic relief to individuals and communities, and reduce the burden of other infectious diseases, noncommunicable diseases, and other disease burdens. A long-term commitment to a robust public health workforce is vital to ensuring health security and preparedness for future health threats.
Overlooked Shortcomings of Observational Studies of Interventions in Coronavirus Disease 2019: An Illustrated Review for the Clinician
Authors: Tleyjeh Imad M , Kashour Tarek , Mandrekar Jay , Petitti Diana B
Published: July 2021

The rapid spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection across the globe triggered an unprecedented increase in research activities that resulted in an astronomical publication output of observational studies. However, most studies failed to apply fully the necessary methodological techniques that systematically deal with different biases and confounding, which not only limits their scientific merit but may result in harm through misleading information. In this article, we address a few important biases that can seriously threaten the validity of observational studies of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We focus on treatment selection bias due to patients’ preference on goals of care, medical futility and disability bias, survivor bias, competing risks, and the misuse of propensity score analysis. We attempt to raise awareness and to help readers assess shortcomings of observational studies of interventions in COVID-19.
Ulnar Artery Access: A Nontraditional Access Site for Diagnostic Cerebral Angiography and Neurointervention: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Dossani Rimal H , Waqas Muhammad , Cappuzzo Justin M , Sonig Ashish , Almayman Faisal , Siddiqui Adnan H , Levy Elad I , Davies Jason M ,   Endovascular Neurosurgery Research Group (ENRG), Arthur Adam , Bain Mark , Bendock Bernard , Binning Mandy Jo , Boulos Alan S , Crowley Webster , Fessler Richard , Grande Andrew , Guterman Lee , Hanel Ricardo , Hoit Daniel , Hopkins L Nelson , Howington Jay , James Robert , Jankowitz Brian , Kan Peter , Khalessi Alex A , Kim Louis , Langer David , Lanzino Giuseppe , Levitt Michael , Levy Elad I , Lopes Demetrius , Mack William , Mericle Robert , Mocco J , Ogilvy Chris , Pandey Aditya , Replogle Robert , Riina Howard , Ringer Andrew , Rodriguez Rafael , Saugaveau Eric , Schirmer Clemens , Siddiqui Adnan H , Spiotta Alex , Sultan Ali , Tawk Rabih , Thomas Ajith , Turner Raymond , Veznedaroglu Erol , Welch Babu , White Jonathan
Published: July 2021

Transfemoral access has long been the main access site for cerebral angiography and neurointerventional procedures. Radial access is accepted as an alternative to the traditional transfemoral approach. Ulnar access may be undertaken if the radial artery is occluded or small caliber, or when radial artery preservation is needed. The safety and feasibility of ulnar access for neuroangiographic procedures has been demonstrated.
1-3
In this operative video, we demonstrate ulnar artery access in a patient in whom radial artery preservation was desired. We further elaborate on the technical nuances of this access. This nontraditional access site offers the same advantages as radial access, avoiding the need to switch to femoral artery access. A preoperative Allen's test is not necessary. Ultrasound imaging is used to aid in the identification and successful puncture of the ulnar artery. A medial to lateral approach for ulnar artery puncture is advised to avoid injury to the ulnar nerve. Careful application of wrist closure bands avoids hematoma accumulation.

 The patient gave informed consent for the procedure and video recording. Institutional review board approval was deemed unnecessary.

 Video. © University at Buffalo, May 2021. Used with permission.
Atlanto-Occipital Decompression of Vertebral Artery for a Variant of Bow Hunter's Syndrome: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Khan Nickalus R , Elarjani Turki , Chen Stephanie H , Miskolczi Laszlo , Strasser Sheryl , Morcos Jacques J
Published: July 2021

Rotational vertebral artery (VA) occlusion syndrome, also known as bow hunter's syndrome, is an uncommon variant of vertebrobasilar insufficiency typically occurring with head rotation.
1-3
The most common presenting symptom is dizziness (76.8%), followed by visual abnormalities and syncope (50.4% and 40.4%, respectively).
2
Osteophytic compression due to spinal spondylosis has been shown to be the most common etiology (46.2%), with other factors, such as a fibrous band, muscular compression, or spinal instability, being documented.
1,2
Treatment is dependent on the level and site of VA compression with anterior, anterolateral, or posterior approaches being described.
1,4
We present the case of a 72-yr-old male with osteophytic compression of the V3 segment of the vertebral artery at the occipital-cervical junction. The patient underwent a C1 hemilaminectomy and removal of osteophytic compression from the occipital-cervical joint. The patient had complete resolution of compression of his vertebral artery on postoperative imaging and remained neurologically intact following the procedure. We review the literature on this topic, the technical nuances of the procedure performed, and review the different treatment modalities available for this rare condition.
1-11

 The patient consented to the procedure and to publication of their image.
C4-T3 Replacement Laminoplasty and Microsurgical Resection of Ependymoma: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Nguyen Vincent N , Motiwala Mustafa , Ha Larry , Boom Alan D , Boop Frederick A
Published: July 2021

Spinal ependymomas are the most common intramedullary spinal cord tumors in adults.
1-4
They are benign histologically, and maximum safe surgical resection should be pursued with the goal of maintaining neurological integrity.
4
Spinal ependymoma resections have been described in the operative video literature, including those using techniques of laminoplasty to prevent postlaminectomy kyphosis.
1-3,5
Defining the planes between tumor and normal spinal cord is critical to achieving safe maximum resection.
3
This video will illustrate the microsurgical techniques used in the resection of a large spinal cord ependymoma in a patient who presented with progressive lower extremity paraparesis and incontinence and was found to have a large intradural, intramedullary C4-T3 lesion with a rostral glial tumor cyst. The patient consented to surgical intervention.

 The patient was placed prone in MAYFIELD 3-point pin fixation (Integra LifeSciences, Plainsboro Township, New Jersey). Intraoperative neurophysiological electrodes were placed for somatosensory evoked potentials, motor evoked potentials, and D-wave monitoring of corticospinal tracts.
6,7
C3-T4 replacement laminoplasties were performed. A midline dural incision spanning C4-T4 was made. A midline myelotomy preserving the pial venous plexus was performed with a 69 Beaver blade.
2
The attachments of the tumor to the normal white matter of the spinal cord were microsurgically defined, coagulated, and divided. Tumor debulking was performed with an ultrasonic aspirator. Once gross total resection was achieved, the pial edges of the spinal cord were reapproximated. The dura was closed in a watertight fashion. The patient recovered from surgery well with preservation of her motor function with a continued T7 sensory level.
Cryogenian Origin and Subsequent Diversification of the Plant Cell-Wall Enzyme XTH Family
Authors: Shinohara Naoki , Nishitani Kazuhiko
Published: July 2021

All land plants encode large multigene families of xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolases (XTHs), plant-specific enzymes that cleave and reconnect plant cell-wall polysaccharides. Despite the ubiquity of these enzymes, considerable uncertainty remains regarding the evolutionary history of the XTH family. Phylogenomic and comparative analyses in this study traced the non-plant origins of the XTH family to Alphaproteobacteria ExoKs, bacterial enzymes involved in loosening biofilms, rather than Firmicutes licheninases, plant biomass digesting enzymes, as previously supposed. The relevant horizontal gene transfer (HGT) event was mapped to the divergence of non-swimming charophycean algae in the Cryogenian geological period. This HGT event was the likely origin of charophycean EG16-2s, which are putative intermediates between ExoKs and XTHs. Another HGT event in the Cryogenian may have led from EG16-2s or ExoKs to fungal Congo Red Hypersensitive proteins (CRHs) to fungal CRHs, enzymes that cleave and reconnect chitin and glucans in fungal cell walls. This successive transfer of enzyme-encoding genes may have supported the adaptation of plants and fungi to the ancient icy environment by facilitating their sessile lifestyles. Furthermore, several protein evolutionary steps, including coevolution of substrate-interacting residues and putative intra-family gene fusion, occurred in the land plant lineage and drove diversification of the XTH family. At least some of those events correlated with the evolutionary gain of broader substrate specificities, which may have underpinned the expansion of the XTH family by enhancing duplicated gene survival. Together, this study highlights the Precambrian evolution of life and the mode of multigene family expansion in the evolutionary history of the XTH family.
The Effect of Erector Spinae Block versus Serratus Plane Block on Pain Scores and Diaphragmatic Excursion in Multiple Rib Fractures. A Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: El Malla Dina Ahmed , Helal Rehab Abd El fattah , Zidan Tamer Atef Mohamed , El Mourad Mona Blough
Published: July 2021

Objectives

We aimed to investigate whether ultrasound guided erector spinae plane block and serratus anterior plane block would provide effective and safe analgesia in patients with fracture ribs, and to detect their effects on diaphragmatic excursion in such cases.

Design

Prospective double-blind randomized study

Settings

Tanta University Hospitals

Subject

Fifty adult patients ASA I, II with fracture ribs.

Methods

Patients were randomized to receive either ultrasound guided erector spinae block (Group I) or serratus plane block (Group II) with injection of 19 ml bupivacaine 0.25% plus 1 ml dexamethasone (4 mg). Pain scores, 24 hour total analgesic requirements, diaphragmatic excursion and incidence of adverse events were recorded.

Results

At rest and dynamic pain scores were significantly lower in Group I as compared to Group II from 2 hour up to 24 hour post block [median differences (95% CI): −1 (−0.9999; 0.0002), −1 (−0.9999; 0.0002), −1 (−0.9998; 0.0003), −1(−1.000;−0.000) and −1(−2.0000;−1.0000), −1(−0.9998;−0.0001), −1(−1.0001;−1.0002), −1(−2.000; 0.000), respectively], with a significant reduction in 24 hour opioid consumption in Group I in comparison to Group II (P = .004*). Diaphragmatic excursion showed a significant improvement in Group I when compared to Group II at 2, 6, 12, and 24 hour after the block (P = .024*, .038*, .027*, .042* correspondingly). No adverse events were noted.

Conclusions

Both erector spinae block and serratus plane block provided safe and effective pain relief in traumatic rib fractures. Although the erector spinae group displayed significantly reduced pain scores, decreased analgesic needs and improved diaphragmatic excursion as compared to serratus group, nevertheless, this was of no clinical significance.
Reconfiguring State–Movement Relations in the Context of De-democratization
Authors: Krizsán Andrea , Roggeband Conny
Published: July 2021

De-democratization and hostility to gender equality alter relations between states and feminists. State feminism, which focuses on cooperation between feminists and states, needs amendments for applicability in such contexts. We propose the integration of anti-gender actors into the analysis. We also suggest moving away from the assumption that transactional activism targeting states is the most effective strategy for feminists to respond to such hostile contexts and discuss the potential of more diversified forms of engagement. To illustrate our conceptual framework, we look at changing political dynamics in three recent democracies: Croatia, Hungary, and Poland.
Ultrasound of Soft Tissue Masses: Part I
Authors: Harris Kaylee M. , Montgomery Justin R. , Spicer Paul J.
Published: July 2021

Ultrasound is an important initial imaging study for evaluation of soft tissue masses. Many benign masses have characteristic locations and imaging findings, which indicate their diagnosis. Likewise, malignant masses frequently have imaging features, which indicate a suspicious finding. It is important for radiologists to be able to differentiate benign from malignant soft tissue masses, and in turn, to recommend the appropriate next step for suspicious masses. This article focuses on multiple different benign masses and their imaging findings.
Not all voxels are created equal: reducing estimation bias in regional NODDI metrics using tissue-weighted means
Authors: Parker CS , Veale T , Bocchetta M , Slattery CF , Malone IB , Thomas DL , Schott JM , Cash DM , Zhang H ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2021

Neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) estimates microstructural properties of brain tissue relating to the organisation and processing capacity of neurites, which are essential elements for neuronal communication. Descriptive statistics of NODDI tissue metrics are commonly analysed in regions-of-interest (ROI) to identify brain-phenotype associations. Here, the conventional method to calculate the ROI mean weights all voxels equally. However, this produces biased estimates in the presence of CSF partial volume. This study introduces the tissue-weighted mean, which calculates the mean NODDI metric across the tissue within an ROI, utilising the tissue fraction estimate from NODDI to reduce estimation bias. We demonstrate the proposed mean in a study of white matter abnormalities in young onset Alzheimer’s disease (YOAD). Results show the conventional mean induces significant bias that correlates with CSF partial volume, primarily affecting periventricular regions and more so in YOAD subjects than in healthy controls. Due to the differential extent of bias between healthy controls and YOAD subjects, the conventional mean under- or over-estimated the effect size for group differences in many ROIs. This demonstrates the importance of using the correct estimation procedure when inferring group differences in studies where the extent of CSF partial volume differs between groups. These findings are robust across different acquisition and processing conditions. Bias persists in ROIs at higher image resolution, as demonstrated using data obtained from the third phase of the Alzheimer’s disease neuroimaging initiative (ADNI); and when performing ROI analysis in template space. This suggests that conventional ROI means of NODDI metrics are biased estimates under most contemporary experimental conditions, the correction of which requires the proposed tissue-weighted mean. The tissue-weighted mean produces accurate estimates of ROI means and group differences when ROIs contain voxels with CSF partial volume. In addition to NODDI, the technique can be applied to other multi-compartment models that account for CSF partial volume, such as the free water elimination method. We expect the technique to help generate new insights into normal and abnormal variation in tissue microstructure of regions typically confounded by CSF partial volume, such as those in individuals with larger ventricles due to atrophy associated with neurodegenerative disease.
The expectant brain – being pregnant causes changes in brain morphology in the early postpartum period
Authors: Chechko Natalia , Dukart Jürgen , Tchaikovski Svetlana , Enzensberger Christian , Neuner Irene , Stickel Susanne
Published: July 2021

There is growing evidence that pregnancy may have a significant impact on the maternal brain, causing changes in its structure. However, the patterns of these changes have not yet been systematically investigated. Using voxel-based (VBM) and surface-based morphometry (SBM), we compared a group of healthy primiparous women (n = 40) with healthy multiparous mothers (n = 37) as well as nulliparous women (n = 40). Compared to the nulliparous women, the young mothers showed decreases in gray matter volume in the bilateral hippocampus/amygdala, the orbitofrontal cortex/subgenual prefrontal area, the right superior temporal gyrus, the right insula, and the cerebellum. However, these pregnancy-related changes in brain structure did not predict the quality of mother-infant attachment at either 3 or 12 weeks postpartum, nor were they more pronounced among the multiparous women. SBM analyses showed significant cortical thinning especially in the frontal and parietal cortices, with the parietal cortical thinning likely potentiated by multiple pregnancies. We conclude, therefore, that the widespread morphological changes seen in the brain shortly after childbirth reflect substantial neuroplasticity. Also, the experience of pregnancy alone may not be the underlying cause of the adaptations for mothering and caregiving. As regards the exact biological function of the changes in brain morphology as well as the long-term effect of pregnancy on the maternal brain, further longitudinal research with larger cohorts will be needed to draw any definitive conclusions.

Significance Statement

Biological adaptations during pregnancy affect the maternal brain. Here, we evaluated morphological changes in the brain of mentally healthy young mothers within the first four days of childbirth. Compared to the nulliparous women, the young primiparous and multiparous mothers demonstrated a substantial reduction in gray matter volume in brain areas related to socio-cognitive and emotional processes. Cortical alterations due to pregnancy-related adaptations are not the underlying cause of mother-infant attachment.
Epigenetic regulation clocks the multigenerational olfactory imprinting in C. elegans
Authors: Erard-Garcia Madeleine , de Abreu Diana Andrea Fernandes , Gruet Antoine , Blanchard Marie-Pierre , Baranger Kevin , Clovis Yoanne , Féron François , Remy Jean-Jacques
Published: July 2021

Imprinting is an early sensory life experience that induces adult behaviours, such as mother recognition or homing. In a previous study, we demonstrated a striking olfactory imprinting in C. elegans that can be inherited over generations. When exposed to specific odorants during a timely controlled post-hatch period, C. elegans worms display during adulthood an enhanced migration towards these molecules. In order to unveil some of the genetic and epigenetic factors that are responsible for such a behavioural plasticity, we assessed the role of heterochronic genes using a candidate gene approach. We report here that translation of the Hunchback-Like 1 (HBL1) transcription factor in the sensory processing interneuron AIY, is a determining factor for olfactory plasticity timing in C.elegans. HBL1 may associate to the SPR1/CoREST co-repressor, the lysine demethylase SPR5/LSD1 and the histone deacetylase HDA3 to lengthen the plasticity period, whereas the translation initiation factor IFE-4 and the histone deacetylase HDA2 abridge it. We also observed that lengthened plasticity periods allow proportionally faster stable behavioral adaptation of C. elegans populations. We conclude that plasticity timing is a key factor, not only to transiently adapt individuals but also to stably adapt animal populations via multigenerational accumulation of experience.
Determination of the Optical Properties of Thylakoid Membranes from Whole Leaf Reflectance Measurements Using a Capacitor and Unbound Electron Model
Authors: Muttiah Ranjan S. , Savenkov Sergey N.
Published: July 2021

This paper demonstrates that a capacitor equivalent along with unbound electrons can be used to model thylakoid membranes in grana stacks. From whole leaf reflectance measurements at normal incidences at 660nm wavelength and taken from the literature (Hu et al. 2020), refractive indices are obtained from the Fresnel’s equation for transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) polarization. The TE and TM polarizations for external reflectance depict the Brewster angle at which the magnitude of the reflected electric vector is zero; the internal reflections show that there’s a narrow angle window of about 10 degrees before the internally refracted light goes into critical angle. The clustering and separation of reflection measurements with angle of incidence is explained using Fresnel’s equation; the cross-over angle beyond the Brewster’s angle for internal reflection at which reflectance measurements separate with incidence angle is given by . The predicted relaxation times from a capacitor and unbound electron model gave favorable comparisons against commonly reported fluorescence times in the 0.1 to 1 ns range (our results gave 0.5-0.8 ns). The di-electric constant for the membrane is estimated to be 5. The stacking number (number of grana layers) is consistent with the light penetration depth (skin depth). The magnetic permeability was shown to be close to that of vacuum and therefore the thylakoid lacks any magnetic properties as would be expected for such a transparent media. An in-vivo estimate based on thermal equilibrium of molecules for the permanent dipole moment of the chlorophyll molecule gave 2,025D (Debye).
Darting across space and time: Parametric modulators of sex-biased conditioned fear responses
Authors: Mitchell Julia R. , Trettel Sean G. , Li Anna J. , Wasielewski Sierra , Huckleberry Kylie A. , Fanikos Michaela , Golden Emily , Laine Mikaela A. , Shansky Rebecca M.
Published: July 2021

Pavlovian fear conditioning is a widely used behavioral paradigm for studying associative learning in rodents. Despite early recognition that subjects may engage in a variety of both conditioned and unconditioned responses, the last several decades have seen the field narrow its focus to measure freezing as the sole indicator of conditioned fear. We previously reported that female rats were more likely than males to engage in darting, an escape-like conditioned response that is associated with heightened shock reactivity. To determine how experimental parameters contribute to the frequency of darting in both males and females, we manipulated factors such as chamber size, shock intensity, and number of trials. To better capture fear-related behavioral repertoires in our animals, we developed ScaredyRat, an open-source custom Python tool that analyzes Noldus Ethovision-generated raw data files to identify Darters and quantify both conditioned and unconditioned responses. We find that like freezing, conditioned darting occurrences scale with experimental alterations. While most darting occurs in females, we find that with an extended training protocol, darting can emerge in males as well. Collectively, our data suggest that darting reflects a behavioral switch in conditioned responding that is a product of both an individual animal’s sex, shock reactivity, and experimental parameters, underscoring the need for careful consideration of sex as a biological variable in classic learning paradigms.