bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical Significance of PLIF in Restoring L4-S1 Segmental Lordosis of 2-level Isthmic Spondylolisthesis
Authors: Wang Jing-Yu , Liu Fu-Sheng , Li Jing , Wang Xiao-Bin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Spinal and pelvic sagittal plane balance is closely related to good clinical prognosis, so in the treatment of 2-level isthmic spondylolisthesis, attention should be paid not only to adequate nerve decompression, but also to the correction of lumbosacral sagittal plane parameters. The purpose of this study was to observe the clinical prognosis and sagittal parameters of patients with isthmic spondylolisthesis treated with PLIF, and to find out the risk factors leading to poor prognosis. Methods: From January 2006 to August 2018, the clinical data of patients with 2-level isthmic spondylolisthesis treated with PLIF in the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University were retrospectively collected. The clinical symptoms (JOA score and VAS score) and the sagittal parameters of lumbosacral segment (PI, PT, LL, L4-S1 SL, LDI, PI-LL, LL and L4-S1 SL) were recorded before operation, immediately after operation and at the last follow-up. According to the improvement rate of JOA score, the patients were divided into two subgroups, poor(P) group and good(G) group. The parameters within and between the two subgroups were compared. Meanwhile, Pearson correlation analysis was conducted between sagittal parameters and JOA score improvement rate.Results: A total of 52 patients were enrolled in this study, the average age was (59.96 ±9.11) years, and the mean follow-up time was (31.88 ±8.37) months. Group G (n = 37) and group P (n = 15). In terms of clinical symptom improvement and sagittal plane parameters, except PI, the other parameters of the patients were improved compared with those before operation, and the difference was statistically significant. In the intra-group comparison, except PI, other indexes in group G were significantly improved, while in group P, there was no significant difference in PI, LL, L4-S1 SL, LDI, PI-LL before and after operation. In the comparison between groups, there was no significant difference in baseline data between group G and group P; postoperative VAS score(back pain) in group G was lower than that in group P, but there was no significant difference in VAS score( leg pain); in terms of JOA score and JOA score improvement rate, group G was significantly better; △L4-S1 SL ,L4-S1 SL and LDI were larger in group G, and the proportion of patients with normal LDI was higher than that in group P. Pearson correlation analysis showed that postoperative △L4-S1 SL, LDI and L4-S1 SL were positively correlated with JOA improvement rate. 2 patients with failed internal fixation occurred in group P, and the postoperative LDI was less than 50%. Conclusion: PLIF is an effective method for the treatment of 2-level isthmic spondylolisthesis. ΔL4-S1 SL, L4-S1 SL and good LDI may be important sagittal parameters affecting the clinical prognosis of L4 and L5 isthmus spondylolisthesis.
Successful Eradication of Mycoplasma Hyopneumoniae from the Norwegian Pig Population – 10 Years Later
Authors: Gulliksen Stine Margrethe , Baustad Børge , Framstad Tore , Jørgensen Anne , Skomsøy Audun , Kjelvik Oddbjørn , Gjestvang Mona , Grøntvedt Carl Andreas , Lium Bjørn 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
BackgroundMycoplasma hyopneumoniae (Mhyo) is the causative agent of enzootic pneumonia in pigs which adversely affects animal health and welfare, in addition to causing considerable economical losses. This paper presents the implementation of the national Mhyo eradication program in Norway, the subsequent population wide surveillance and documentation on the current freedom from Mhyo in the Norwegian pig population.In 1994, The board of The Norwegian Pig Health Service decided on conducting a national surveillance and eradication program for Mhyo. The program aimed for population wide freedom from Mhyo, based on serological surveillance. A partial depopulation program was initiated in all Mhyo positive farrow-to-feed and farrow-to-finish herds. Total depopulation was performed in all positive herds with finishing pigs. ResultsFrom 1994 to 2009, a total of 138 635 pigs in 3215 herds were serologically tested for the presence of antibodies against Mhyo. Of these, 5538 (4%) individual samples and 398 (12.4%) of the herds were defined as positive. In 2009, the Norwegian pig population was declared free from Mhyo, and has been so since then. From 2009 through 2019, a total of 44 228 individual serum samples have been analyzed for the presence of antibodies against Mhyo and found negative in the National surveillance program.ConclusionEradication of Mhyo infections has resulted in improved health and welfare of the Norwegian pig population. The success of the strategy is based on numerous factors, such as moderate to low prevalence of the agent, well documented and effective eradication protocols, accurate diagnostic tests, negligible import of live pigs, a well-structured commercial pig population, relatively small herds, low herd density in most parts of the country, and finally, the loyalty and significant effort of farmers, abattoir employees and veterinarians. To maintain the infection-free status at national level, a continuous alertness is required in the future to discover possible Mhyo infections and ensure rapid sampling and diagnostics. Any findings of Mhyo positive pig herds in Norway will result in immediate eradication.
SalmoSim: the development of a three-compartment in vitro simulator of the Atlantic Salmon GI tract and associated microbial communities
Authors: Kazlauskaite Raminta , Cheaib Bachar , Heys Chloe , Ijaz Umer Zeeshan , Connelly Stephanie , Sloan William , Russell Julie , Rubio Laura Martinez , Sweetman John , Kitts Alex , McGinnity Philip , Lyons Philip , Llewellyn Martin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
BackgroundAtlantic salmon are a fish species of major economic importance. Innovative strategies are being sought to improve salmon feeds and feed additives to enhance fish performance, welfare, and the environmental sustainability of the aquaculture industry. There is still a lack of knowledge surrounding the importance and functionality of the salmon gut microbiome in fish nutrition. In vitro gut model systems might prove a valuable tool to study the effect of feed, and additives, on the host’s microbial communities. Several in vitro gut models targeted at monogastric vertebrates are now in operation. Here, we report the development of an Atlantic salmon gut model, SalmoSim, to simulate three gut compartments (stomach, pyloric caecum and midgut) and associated microbial communities. ResultsThe gut model was established in a series of linked bioreactors seeded with biological material derived from farmed adult marine phase salmon. In biological triplicate, the response of the in vitro system to two distinct dietary formulations (fish meal and fish meal free) was compared to a parallel in vivo trial over forty days. Metabarcoding based 16S rDNA sequencing, qPCR, ammoniacal nitrogen and volatile fatty acid measurements were undertaken to survey the microbial community dynamics and function. SalmoSim microbiomes were indistinguishable (p=0.230) from their founding inocula at 20 days and the most abundant genera (e.g. Psycrobacter, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas) proliferated within SalmoSim. Real salmon and SalmoSim responded similarly to the introduction of novel feed, with majority of the taxa (96% Salmon, 97% SalmoSim) unaffected, while a subset of taxa (e.g. a small fraction of Psychrobacter) were differentially affected across both systems. Consistent with a low impact of the novel feed on microbial fermentative activity, volatile fatty acids profiles were not significantly different in SalmoSim pre- and post-feed switch.ConclusionThis study represents an important step in the development of an in vitro gut system as a tool for the improvement of salmon nutrition and welfare. This system aims to be utilised as a pre-screening tool for new feed ingredients and additives, as well as being used to study antimicrobial resistance and transfer, and fundamental ecological processes that underpin microbiome dynamics and assembly.
Changes in Soil Zinc Chemical Fractions and Improvements in Wheat Grain Quality in Response to Zinc Solubilising Bacteria
Authors: Niko Banafsheh Rezaei , enayatizamir naeimeh , Masir Mojtaba Nourozi 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
This study was performed to investigate the impacts of two indigenous strains of zinc (Zn) solubilising bacteria on Zn fractionation in soil, Zn uptake and the molar ratio of phytic acid to Zn (PA/Zn) in wheat grain cv. Chamran. The experiment was implemented in a completely randomised factorial design that included the treatment of bacterial inoculation consisting of B0 (control), B1 (Bacillus megaterium), B2 (Enterobacter cloacae), B3 (a mixed inoculation of both bacteria), and ZnSO4 fertiliser at three application levels: Zn0 (control), Zn1 (5.1mgkg-1), and Zn2 (10.1mgkg-1). Bacillus megaterium was isolated from the rhizosphere of Zea mays, which can solubilise Zn and phosphate and produce auxin. Enterobacter cloacae, which had been isolated from sugarcane root, was screened qualitatively and determined to be the best isolate to solubilise Zn. The results indicated the maximum values of organically bound (2.08 mg kg-1) and exchangeable Zn (0.89 mg kg-1) in the Zn2B3 treatment. Also, the highest amounts of carbonate bound (9.25 mg kg-1), FeMn-oxides (10.70 mg kg-1), and residual fractions (16.17 mg kg-1) were recorded for the Zn2B0 treatment. The relative proportions of residual, FeMn-oxides, carbonate, organic, and exchangeable Zn fractions in Zn0B0 were 40.48, 29.2, 27.1, 2.18, and 0.84%, respectively. These proportions changed to 37.24, 29.51, 26.9, 4.3, and 1.75%, in the Zn0B3 treatment. Maximum values of Zn uptake and grain yield were associated with the Zn2B3 treatment, showing increases (compared to the control) of 214 and 46%, respectively. The lowest ratio of PA/Zn was obtained in the Zn2B3 and Zn2B2 treatments, which exhibited reductions of 31.38 and 30.86%, respectively, when compared to the control.
Expression Cassette and Plasmid Construction for Yeast Surface Display in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae
Authors: Piraine Renan E A , Gonçalves Vitória S , Junior Alceu GS dos Santos , Cunha Rodrigo C , Albuquerque Pedro MM , Conrad Neida L , Leite Fabio 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Objectives. Develop a Cell Surface Display system in S. cerevisiae, based on the construction of an expression cassette for pYES2 plasmid. Results. The construction of an expression cassette containing the α-factor signal peptide and the C-terminal portion of the α-agglutinin protein was made and its sequence inserted into a plasmid named pYES2/gDαAgglutinin, allowing cell surface display of bovine herpesvirus type 5 (BoHV-5) glycoprotein D (gD) on S. cerevisiae BY4741 strain. Recombinant protein expression was confirmed by dot blot, and indirect immunofluorescence using monoclonal anti-histidine antibodies and polyclonal antibodies from mice experimentally vaccinated with a recombinant gD. Conclusions. These results demonstrate that the approach and plasmid used represent not only an effective system for immobilizing proteins on the yeast cell surface, as well as a platform for immunobiologicals development.
Dielectric Behavior of Mechano-chemically Synthesized [(CH3NH3)3Bi2Br9]:&nbsp;A Lead Free Hybrid Perovskite
Authors: Pujaru Swagatalaxmi , Sadhukhan Priyabrata , Ghosh Basudev , Dhara Arup , Das Sachindranath 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Lead free hybrid halide perovskite (CH3NH3)3Bi2Br9 has been successfully synthesized by mechano-chemical method. The microstructure analysis by Rietveld’s refinement method revealed that the crystal belongs to trigonal system with space group P3 ̅m1. The obtained microstructural parameters are well in agreement with the previously published data. Temperature-dependent ac conductivity, impedance spectroscopy, and complex dielectric properties have been investigated in detail. The negative temperature coefficient of resistance behaviour reveals the semiconducting nature of the materials. The complex impedance spectroscopy also supports the semiconducting nature of the sample with activation energy for conduction ~0.38 eV.
Combined Frameless Stereotactical Biopsy and Intraoperative Cerebral Angiography by 3D-Rotational Fluoroscopy with Intravenous Contrast Administration. A Feasibility Study.
Authors: Linsenmann Thomas , Cattaneo Andrea , März Alexander , Weiland Judith , Stetter Christian , Nickl Robert , Westermaier Thomas 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Purpose: Mobile 3-dimensional fluoroscopes are available in a number of neurosurgical departments and can be used in combination with simple image post processing to depict cerebral vessels. In preparation of stereotactic surgery, preoperative Computed Tomography (CT) may be required for image fusion. Contrast CT may be of further advantage for image fusion as it regards the vessel anatomy in trajectory planning. Time-consuming in-hospital transports are necessary for this purpose. Mobile 3D-fluoroscopes may be used to generate a CT equal preoperative data set without an in-hospital transport. This study was performed to determine the feasibility and image quality of intraoperative 3-dimensional fluoroscopy with intravenous contrast administration.Methods: 6 patients were included in this feasibility study. Their heads were fixed in a radiolucent Mayfield clamp. A rotational fluoroscopy scan was performed with 50 mL iodine contrast agent. The image data sets were merged with the existing MRI images at a planning station and visually evaluated by two observer. The operation times were compared between the frame-based and frameless systems (“skin-to-skin” and “OR entry to exit”)Results: No adverse effects were observed. The entire procedure from fluoroscope positioning to the transfer to the planning station took 5 to 6 minutes with an image acquisition time of 24 seconds. In 5 of 6 cases, the fused imaging was able to reproduce the vascular anatomy accurately and in good quality. Both time end-points were significantly shorter compared to frame-based interventions.Conclusion: The images could easily be transferred to the planning and navigation system and were successfully merged with the MRI data set. The procedure can be completely integrated into the surgical workflow. Preoperative CT imaging or transport under anaesthesia may even be replaced by this technique in the future. Furthermore, hemorrhages can be successfully visualized intraoperatively and might prevent time delays in emergencies.
Close binary black hole in a radio-quiet quasar: a candidate of Nano-Hertz gravitational wave emitter
Authors: Feng Hai-Cheng , Liu Hong-Tao , Bai Jinming 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Close supermassive binary black holes (SMBBHs) with separations less than about 0.1 parsec are expected to be Nano-Hertz gravitational wave sources. SMBBH systems should exhibit periodic variability. However, periodic variability in radio-loud quasars may be interpreted with the jet model. Here we report the detection of a robust periodic signal in the optical variability of the radio-quiet quasar PG 0923+201 with an observed period of 726.8±4.7 days, obtained from the sinusoid-like light curve of a temporal baseline of about 9 years. This periodicity is probably from a close SMBBH with a total mass of 109.3 solar masses and a separation of about 0.01 parsec, implying relativistic orbital speeds. Such a system has passed through the well-known “final parsec problem” of SMBBH systems, and the Nano-Hertz gravitational wave radiation becomes significant. The ratio of the separation between these two black holes to the broad-line region size is about 0.1. A close SMBBH is also suggested by this small ratio and the spectral properties of Balmer broad lines in this quasar. This radio-quiet quasar is a candidate emitter of Nano-Hertz gravitational waves at a frequency of about 30 Nano-Hertz.
Detection of EGFR Mutation of Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma in Sputum using Droplet Digital PCR
Authors: Isaka Tetsuya , Yokose Tomoyuki , Ito Hiroyuki , Nakayama Haruhiko , Miyagi Yohei , Saito Haruhiro , Masuda Munetaka 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background】It is still unclear whether epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation of primary lung adenocarcinoma can be detected accurately on sputum samples. This study aimed to examine EGFR mutations of primary lung adenocarcinoma in sputum samples using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) and compare it with an EGFR mutation in surgically resected lung cancer. 【Methods】Sputum was collected preoperatively from patients with primary lung cancer who were scheduled for complete resection of lung tumor at Kanagawa Cancer Center from September 2014 to May 2016. ddPCR was performed to detect EGFR exon 21 L858R point mutation (Ex21 mutation) and EGFR exon 19 deletion mutation (Ex19 mutation) in the sputum samples. The concordance of EGFR mutation status in sputum samples and tumors in surgically resected specimen was evaluated for each positive and negative cytology group.【Results】One hundred and eighteen patients with primary lung adenocarcinoma provided sputum samples. Sputum cytology was positive in 13 patients (11.0%). ddPCR detected two cases of Ex21 mutation and two cases of Ex19 mutation. Compared to surgically resected specimens, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value of EGFR mutation detection were 80.0%, 100%, and 92.3%, respectively. The sensitivity of EGFR mutation detection was 3.1% in sputum cytology negative cases. Logistic regression model analysis revealed that tumor size ≥ 29 mm determined using computed tomography (CT) was an independent potential predictive factor for positive sputum cytology (odds ratio = 10.6, 95% confidence interval: 1.85–61.0, p=0.008).【Conclusions】EGFR mutation of primary lung adenocarcinoma was accurately detected in sputum samples using ddPCR if the sputum cytology was positive. Sputum samples should be collected in patients with CT tumor size ≥ 29 mm for EGFR mutation analysis.
Distribution and correlations of school bully activities in a Central Indian district of Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Mishra Badrinarayan , Patidar Shivnarayan , Mishra Bidushi , Sinha Nidhi D , Mishra Gitisha 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Bullying at schools is a known but neglected phenomenon. The study of its prevalence and correlates are essential to curb this aberrant behavior for building a healthy society. Aim and objective: This cross-sectional evaluation was carried out to study the pattern through which bully activities manifests in students from 6th to 10th standards and find its positive and negative correlates.Methods: candidates’ selection was done through simple random and proportionate sampling methods to ensure equal presentation across the board i.e., urban vs rural, types of schools, gender and class(standard).Results: 480 participants were studied both from rural and urban high schools (6th – 10th standard) in equal proportion. An equal representation (33.3%) of participants were ensured from the three groups of schools studied i.e., Girls, Co-education, and Boys, across gender (50%) and class(standard) 20% from each. The age ranged from 10 years to 18 years with the mean age at 13.9 years and a standard deviation of 1.66. From the total studied population 52% were bystanders, and 48% were engaged in some form of bully activities (20% victim, 16% bully victim, and 13% bully). While both bully and victim scores had strong interconnect (strong positive correlation r = 0.259**, p - 0.000) their relation with prosocial and self-esteem scores were negative (p – 0.001). GHQ (General Health Questionnaire) score was not related to any of the above sub-scales. Conclusion: Bully related behavior was predominant in the studied population. From the results, it appears that measures directed at improving prosocial behaviors and self-esteem of pupils can act as effective counters to the reported empathetic activities.
Psychosocial interventions for reducing depression among the elderly in low and middle income countries: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Amanyire Jordan Mutambi , Aheisibwe Irene , Rukundo Godfrey Zari 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: According to the World Health Organization, depression is expected to be the largest contributor to the global disease burden by 2030. Depression is the most frequent cause of emotional distress and reduced quality of life among older people affecting over 12% of the individuals aged 65 or older, . Psychosocial interventions have been proven to be effective in the management of depression. Most of the available evidence is from high income settings, with paucity of information in low and middle income countries which carry the biggest burden of depression and other health challenges. In this systematic review, we will document evidence on psychosocial interventions that have been effective in treatment of depression among elderly people in low and middle income countries. Methods: The review will be conducted and reported in accordance to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. We will include journal articles that have documented the psychosocial interventions in the primary prevention of depressive symptoms in elderly people aged 60 or older. We will also include accessible grey literature about the topic. We will include articles that have documented the psychosocial interventions to address depression in elderly patients in low and middle income countries. We will search different search engines and data bases including PubMed, EMBASE, Psych-INFO, Cochrane Library. We will use a meta-analysis, should we find that there is no heterogeneity between included studies.Discussion: This protocol describes a planned systematic review of observational studies reporting psychosocial interventions in the management of depressive symptoms in elderly people aged 60 or older. We anticipate that once this review is complete and published, our findings will be of interest to the elderly with depressive symptoms, their families and caregivers, students, and other healthcare professionals, scientists and policy makers. Systematic review registration: This protocol will not be registered with PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews since the system is no longer accepting new protocols.