bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tree frogs (Polypedates dennysi) landing on horizontal perches: the effects of perch diameter
Authors: Song Yi , Zhou Rui , Qiu Ye , Chen Jian , Dai Zhendong , Wu Huaping , Gorb Stanislav N. 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT
Secure landing is indispensable for both leaping animals and robotics. Tree frogs, renowned for their adhesive capabilities, can effectively jump across intricate 3D terrain and land safely. Compared with jumping, the mechanisms underlying their landing technique, particularly in arboreal environments, have remained largely unknown. In this study, we focused on the landing patterns of the tree frog Polypedates dennysi on horizontally placed perches, explicitly emphasizing the influence of perch diameters. Tree frogs demonstrated diverse landing postures, including the utilization of: (1) single front foot, (2) double front feet, (3) anterior bellies, (4) middle bellies, (5) posterior bellies, (6) single hind foot, or (5) double hind feet. Generally, tree frogs favoured bellies on slimmer targets but double front feet on large perches. Analysis of limb–trunk relationships revealed their adaptability to modify postures, including body positions and limb orientations, for successful landing. The variations in the initial landing postures affected the subsequent landing procedures and, consequently, the dynamics. As the initial contact position switched from front foot back to the hind foot, the stabilization time decreased at first, reaching a minimum in middle belly landings, and then increased again. The maximum vertical forces showed an inverse trend, whereas the maximum fore–aft forces continuously increased as the initial contact position switched. As the perch diameter increased, the time expended dropped, whereas the maximum impact force increased. These findings not only add to our understanding of frog landings but also highlight the necessity of considering perch diameters and landing styles when studying the biomechanics of arboreal locomotion.
Early life exposure to queen mandibular pheromone mediates persistent transcriptional changes in the brain of honey bee foragers
Authors: Peng Tianfei , Kennedy Anissa , Wu Yongqiang , Foitzik Susanne , Grüter Christoph 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT
Behavioural regulation in insect societies remains a fundamental question in sociobiology. In hymenopteran societies, the queen plays a crucial role in regulating group behaviour by affecting individual behaviour and physiology through modulation of worker gene expression. Honey bee (Apis mellifera) queens signal their presence via queen mandibular pheromone (QMP). While QMP has been shown to influence behaviour and gene expression of young workers, we know little about how these changes translate in older workers. The effects of the queen pheromone could have prolonged molecular impacts on workers that depend on an early sensitive period. We demonstrate that removal of QMP impacts long-term gene expression in the brain and antennae in foragers that were treated early in life (1 day post emergence), but not when treated later in life. Genes important for division of labour, learning, chemosensory perception and ageing were among those differentially expressed in the antennae and brain tissues, suggesting that QMP influences diverse physiological and behavioural processes in workers. Surprisingly, removal of QMP did not have an impact on foraging behaviour. Overall, our study suggests a sensitive period early in the life of workers, where the presence or absence of a queen has potentially life-long effects on transcriptional activity.
Znaczenie, wykorzystanie i ochrona wypływów wód podziemnych w województwie pomorskim
Authors: Chlost Izabela , Fac-Beneda Joanna 
Published: May 2024

W pracy przedstawiono zróżnicowanie, funkcje i znaczenie wypływów wód podziemnych w obrębie jednostki administracyjnej na przykładzie województwa pomorskiego. Realizację celu rozpoczęto od określenia stanu zinwentaryzowania źródeł na terenie województwa (aktualnie jest ich ponad 1300), a w dalszym etapie rozpoznania ich roli w środowisku geograficznym przy uwzględnieniu aspektu przyrodniczego, społecznego, kulturowego i sposobów wykorzystania gospodarczego. Materiał wyjściowy uzyskano w oparciu o kwerendę danych archiwalnych, interpretację map topograficznych i tematycznych oraz patrolowe badania terenowe przeprowadzone w latach 2006–2022. Stwierdzono, że na terenie objętym badaniem źródła pełnią zróżnicowane funkcje. Inicjują odpływ potamiczny (np. Źródła Roztoka, Źródliska Czarnej Wody), kształtują krajobraz i są ostoją bioróżnorodności (np. Karwickie Źródliska, Źródliska w Dolinie Ewy, Staniszewskie Zdroje). Reprezentują zabytki dziedzictwa religijno-kulturowego, w których woda uznawana jest za świętą (np. Matemblewo, Swarzewo, Piaseczno). W kontekście znaczenia użytkowego udokumentowano wykorzystanie gospodarcze wód źródlanych do napędzania młynów i kuźni wodnych (np. Siemianice, Górczyn, Źródła Studnicy), elektrowni (Staniszewskie Zdroje), a także stawów rybnych (Świecino). Wody źródlane ujmowane są też w celu zaopatrzenia w wodę pitną (Kętrzyno itd.).
Niepewność reżimu odpływu rzek w Polsce w warunkach ocieplenia klimatu
Authors: Wrzesiński Dariusz , Brzezińska Wiktoria 
Published: May 2024

Obserwowana od końca lat 80. XX w. zmiana klimatu w Polsce polegająca na istotnym wzroście temperatury powietrza prowadzi do zmiany funkcjonowania środowiska hydrologicznego, w tym sposobu zasilania rzek i wysokości oraz rozkładu odpływu w cyklu rocznym. Celem pracy jest przedstawienie przestrzennego zróżnicowania niepewności reżimu odpływu rzek i jej zmian w Polsce w latach 1951–2020 na podstawie miary opartej na teorii entropii informacji Shannona. Ustalono stopień niepewności odpływu w cyklu rocznym w całym wieloleciu 1951–2020 oraz w dwóch podokresach: przed silnym wzrostem temperatury powietrza (1951–1988) i w jego czasie (1988–2020). Po roku 1988 nastąpił wzrost niepewności i wyrównanie rozkładu odpływu rzek w przypadku 86% przekrojów wodowskazowych w dorzeczu Wisły, istotny statystycznie we wschodniej części dorzecza. Natomiast odpływ większości rzek w dorzeczu Odry (61%) wykazał nieistotny statystycznie spadek entropii rozkładu odpływu. Do przyczyn takich zmian należy zaliczyć przestrzenne zróżnicowanie zmian wysokości odpływu i jego struktury w okresie ocieplenia. Entropia rozkładu informująca o sezonowości odpływu może być przydatną miarą charakteryzującą reżim odpływu i jego transformację w warunkach zmiany klimatu. Na zmianę reżimu odpływu najbardziej narażone są rzeki o reżimie niwalnym, zwłaszcza niwalnym silnie wykształconym, oraz reżimach złożonych: niwalno-pluwialnym i pluwialno-niwalnym.
Counterintelligence, Artificial Intelligence and National Security: Synergy and Challenges
Authors: Kanellopoulos Anastasios Nikolaos 
Published: May 2024

Counterintelligence (CI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) represent two distinct yet interconnected domains that play pivotal roles in safeguarding National and International Security. On the first hand, CI involves activities and measures taken to identify, prevent and counter any Intelligence activities of hostile entities, such as spying, sabotage and information gathering. On the other hand, AI refers to the development and use of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning and problem-solving. Subsequently, in the ever-evolving landscape of global security, the rise of AI has ushered in a new era of CI practices. The present paper delves into the intersection of CI and AI, exploring the profound impact of AI on the CI processes and how it is transforming National Security strategies, highlighting at the same time the fields of mutually influence. Ultimately, underscores the imperative of harnessing AI's potential to strengthen CI efforts in an ever-evolving threat landscape. Plus, it investigates the ethical concerns and privacy implications associated with AI in CI emphasizing the imperative of responsible AI development and deployment. Finally, through comprehensive international case studies, offers insights into how United States, China, Russia and Israel have integrated AI into their Intelligence and CI strategies, shedding light on the diverse approaches and challenges faced by different countries. Summarizing, the paper underscores the potential synergy between AI and CI, while also acknowledging the formidable challenges it presents, such as privacy concerns and adversarial AI. Striking a balance between harnessing AI's power and safeguarding national interests remains a pivotal task for policymakers and intelligence agencies in the ever-evolving landscape of national security.
OUTCOMES OF REVISION TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY AFTER UNICOMPARTMENTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY AND PERIARTICULAR OSTEOTOMY
Authors: Hancock Doug , Leary Jess , Kejriwal Ritwik 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionThis study assessed outcomes of total knee joint replacements (TKJR) in patients who had undergone previous periarticular osteotomy compared with unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR). Establishing a difference in the results of total knee joint replacements following these operations may be an important consideration in the decision-making and patient counselling around osteotomy versus UKR for the management of single-compartment osteoarthritis.MethodUsing data from the New Zealand Joint Registry, we identified 1,895 total knee joint replacements with prior osteotomy and 1,391 with prior UKR. Revision rates and patient-reported outcomes, as measured by the Oxford Knee Score (OKS), between these two groups were compared. Adjusted hazard ratios were also calculated to compare the groups.ResultsThe revision rate for total knee joint replacement following osteotomy was significantly lower than TKJR following UKR (0.88 per 100 component years versus 1.38 per 100 component years, respectively). Adjusted hazard ratio calculations found that those with TKJR with prior UKR had more than double the risk of requiring revision than those with prior osteotomy. Additionally, there was a statistically significant difference in the mean adjusted OKS scores between the two groups, with improved outcomes in the group with prior osteotomy.ConclusionOur findings suggest that total knee joint replacement following periarticular osteotomy have a lower risk of revision and improved OKS when compared to those with prior UKR. Previous studies assessing New Zealand Joint Registry have not found a statistically significant difference between the two groups however, these results are no longer in keeping with more contemporary literature. Our study confirms the New Zealand population to be comparable with international studies with TKJR after osteotomy performing significantly better compared with prior UKR.
THE INFLUENCE OF BEARING SURFACE ON PERIPROSTHETIC JOINT INFECTION IN TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY
Authors: Owen David 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundIncreasing evidence suggests a link between the bearing surface used in total hip arthroplasty (THA) and the occurrence of infection. It is postulated that polyethylene has immunomodulatory effects and may influence bacterial function and survival, thereby impacting the development of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). This study aimed to investigate the association between polyethylene type and revision surgery for PJI in THA using data from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR). We hypothesized that the use of XLPE would demonstrate a statistically significant reduction in revision rates due to PJI compared to N-XLPE.MethodsData from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR) spanning September 1, 1999, to December 31, 2021, were used to compare the infection revision rates between THA using N-XLPE and XLPE. We calculated the Cumulative Percentage Revision rate (CPR) and Hazard Ratio (HR) while controlling for factors like age, sex, body mass index (BMI), American Society of Anesthesiologists’ (ASA) grade, and head size.ResultsFrom the total 361,083 primary THAs, 26,827 used N-XLPE and 334,256 used XLPE. Excluding data from the first 6 months post-surgery, 220 revisions occurred in the N-XLPE group and 1,055 in the XLPE group for PJI. The HR for infection revision was significantly higher in N-XLPE compared to XLPE, at 1.64 (95% CI, 1.41–1.90, p<0.001).ConclusionsThis analysis provides evidence of an association between N-XLPE and revision for infection in THA. We suspect that polyethylene wear particles contribute to the susceptibility of THA to PJI, resulting in a significantly higher risk of revision for infection in N-XLPE hips compared to those with XLPE.Level of EvidenceTherapeutic Level III.
CAN YOU PREDICT WHICH ‘ROUTINE’ CLOSED ANKLE FRACTURES REQUIRE EXTERNAL FIXATION RATHER THAN CAST IMMOBILIZATION? A RETROSPECTIVE MATCHED COHORT STUDY
Authors: Lynch-Larkin Jessica , Powell Andrew 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionA subset of patients in cast awaiting fixation of ankle fractures require conversion to delayed external fixation (dEF). We aimed to evaluate the effect of delayed versus planned external fixation (pEF), then identify objective characteristics contributing to need for conversion.MethodWe extracted data from our booking system to identify all ankle external fixation procedures between 2010 to 2022. Exclusions included open fractures, the skeletally immature, and pilon or talus fractures. Fractures were classified using the AO/OTA classification, then a matched cohort was identified based on fracture classification. We compared the planned, delayed and matched cohorts for demographics, posterior malleolar fragment (PMF) ratio, and degree of displacement at presentation.ResultsWe identified 25 pEF, 42 dEF, and 67 matched patients. Ankles with dEF had a 3.8 day longer time to ORIF from presentation than those who had pEF, and had an infection rate of 9.5%, compared to 4% in the pEF group. Two patients in the dEF group required further operative intervention. There were no infections or reoperations required in the pEF or matched groups. The dEF group were more likely to have ≥2 reductions (OR 4.13), a PMF ratio of >0.23 (OR 5.07), and have increased displacement at time of injury on lateral (32% vs 19%) and AP (62% vs 36%) radiographs.DiscussionOur retrospective study highlights the longer time to operation and increased infection rates of patients who do not get timely external fixation. We propose a series of objective parameters that predict failure of cast treatment and guide the surgeon to consider planned external fixation in some ankle
SURGICAL OUTCOMES IN INTRAMEDULLARY FIBULAR NAIL FIXATION COMPARED WITH PLATE FIXATION OF DISTAL FIBULAR FRACTURES
Authors: Mooya Shamunyama , Berney Mark , Cleary May , Rowan Fiachra 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionThe condition of the soft tissues surrounding an ankle fracture influences timing and treatment of injuries. Conventional treatment used an open approach to facilitate anatomical reduction and rigid internal fixation. Intramedullary devices for fibular fractures provide a safe alternative in patients in which the condition of the soft tissue envelope or the patient's co-morbidities may benefit from a less invasive approach. We compared outcomes for patients treated with open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) with those undergoing treatment with fibular nails (FN)Methods13 consecutive patients treated with fibular nails (FN) were compared with 13 age-matched patients that underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). All patients were followed to union. Study outcomes were time from admission to surgery, length of stay, wound failure, implant failure, revision surgery, OMAS and SF-36ResultsThere was no difference in age or sex distribution between groups. There was no difference in OMAS at 1 year (83 ± 9 in FN group; 80± 21 in ORIF group) and SF-36 (94 ± 11 and 90 ± 20). There were 2 implant failures in the ORIF group and none in the FN group. There was one wound failure in the ORIF group and none in the FN group. Patients treated with FN had a shorter time to surgery (1 day ± 24 hours vs 3 days ± 24 hours) and shorter length of stay (1 day ± 24 hours vs 4 days ± 96 hours)ConclusionFN is a safe method to treat patients with displaced distal fibular fractures that may have a poor soft tissue envelope and risk factors for wound healing. FN reduces the time to surgery and overall length of stay compared with similar patients treated with conventional ORIF.
GELATIN AND VEGF INCORPORATION IN PVA-TYRAMINE HYDROGELS AS A STRATEGY TO ENHANCE VASCULAR INFILTRATION AND TREAT AVASCULAR NECROSIS
Authors: Longoni A. , Arnold S. , Major G. S. , Jiang A. , Wise L.M. , Hooper G.J. , Kieser D. , Woodfield T.B.F. , Rnjak-Kovacina J. , Lim K.S. 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTIONStimulation of angiogenesis via the delivery of growth factors (GFs) like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a promising strategy for the treatment of avascular necrosis (AVN). Tyraminated poly-vinyl-alcohol hydrogels (PVA-Tyr), which have the ability to covalently incorporate GFs, were proposed as a platform for the controlled delivery of therapeutic levels VEGF to the necrotic areas[1]. Nevertheless, PVA hydrophilicity and bioinertness limits its integration with the host tissues. The aim of this study was to investigated the effectiveness of incorporating gelatin, an FDA-approved, non-immunogeneic biomaterial with biological recognition sites, as a strategy to facilitate blood vessels invasion of PVA-Tyr hydrogels and to restore the vascular supply to necrotic tissues.METHODSProgressively higher gelatin concentrations (0.01–5wt%) were incorporated in the PVA-Tyr network. Hydrogel physico-chemical properties and endothelial cell attachment were evaluated. Afterwards, the capability of the released VEGF and gelatin to promote vascularization was evaluated via chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. VEGF-loaded PVA-Tyr hydrogels with or without gelatin (n=7) were implanted in a subcutaneous mouse model for 3 weeks. Vascularization (CD31+ cells) and cell infiltration (H&E) were evaluated. Finally, AVN was induced in 6 weeks old male piglets as previously described [2]. A transphyseal hole (3mm) was drilled and PVA-Tyr hydrogels with 1% gelatin were delivered in the defects. Piglets were euthanized after 4 weeks and microCT analysis was performed.RESULTSThe incorporation of 1% gelatin significantly enhanced cell attachment without compromising hydrogels physical properties, degradation time, VEGF retention and release. Thus, this gelatin concentration was selected for further analysis. Additionally, the covalent incorporation of VEGF or gelatin to the PVA-Tyr network does not hamper their bioactivity, as both still promoted neo-angiogenesis in a CAM assay. Following subcutaneous implantation, the presence of gelatin did not increase the cellular infiltration in the PVA-Tyr hydrogels. Nevertheless, higher vascular infiltration was observed in the groups where either gelatin or VEGF were included. Additionally, preliminary microCT results indicated that the delivery of PVA-Tyr hydrogels containing 1% gelatin in an AVN model was effective in preventing the necrosis-associated resorption of the bone.DISCUSSION & CONCLUSIONSThese results indicated that the presence of either gelatin or VEGF was sufficient to promote vascular infiltration. Additionally, preliminary results suggested the suitability of the developed hydrogels to treat AVN.
AFFORDABLE VIRTUAL REALITY HAPTIC-FEEDBACK SURGICAL SIMULATOR: A PROOF OF CONCEPT
Authors: Bartle David , Wesley Joshua , Bartlett Jonathan 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTIONSimulation plays an important role in surgical education and the ability to perfect surgical performance. Simulation can be enhanced by adding various layers of realism to the experience. Haptic feedback enhances the simulation experience by providing tactile responses and virtual reality imagery provides an immersive experience and allows for greater appreciation of three-dimensional structures. In this study, we present a proof-of-concept haptic simulator to replicate key steps of a cervical laminoplasty procedure. The technology uses affordable components and is easily modifiable so that it can be used from novice through to expert level. Custom models can be easily added ensuring the simulator can be used in a wide range of orthopaedic applications from baseline education through to day of surgery pre-operative simulation.METHODWe used the Unity Game Engine, the 3D Systems “Touch” Haptic Feedback Device (HFD), and a Meta Quest VR headset. Our system uses a number of complex algorithms to track the shape and provide haptic feedback of a virtual bone model. This allows for simulation of various tools including a high-speed burr, Kerrison rongeur and intraoperative X-rays.RESULTSOur simulator replicates the tactile sensations of bone-burring tasks. Although we focused on the cervical laminoplasty procedure, the system can load data from CT scans, enabling the simulation of multiple other procedures. The parts cost of our system, $10,000 NZD, is a fraction of the cost of traditional surgical simulators.DISCUSSIONOur simulator reduces financial barriers to accessing orthopaedic simulators. Trainees can perform hands-on practice without compromising patient safety. The immersive nature of VR, combined with realistic haptic feedback, enables trainees to develop the dexterity and three-dimensional understanding of detailed bony work. Further refinements are needed before we can perform validation studies on our system.CONCLUSIONSWe present an affordable surgical simulator capable of simulating bony surgical procedures in a VR environment using haptic feedback technology and consumer-grade components.ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSThis research was made possible by the generosity of the Wishbone Trust.
TUBERCULOSIS OF THE WRIST
Authors: Arumugam Manohar 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTIONTuberculosis (TB) is a public health challenge. However, musculoskeletal involvement represents 10–15% of all extrapulmonary cases. Upper extremity involvement is extremely rare. The slow progressive course of clinical symptoms and lack of radiological signs lead to difficulties in establishing early diagnosis. Hence, the patients who have tuberculosis of the wrist are usually misdiagnosed. We report 5 cases of tuberculosis of the wrist seen in our unit from the year 2012 to 2021.METHODSCases were retrospectively evaluated on demographics, nature of history, clinical presentation, culture finding, and histopathological findings from 2012 to 2021 at our unit.RESULTSA total of 5 cases were evaluated retrospectively. Three patients were more than 60 years old and two were less than 30 years old. Four of the patients presented with wrist swelling 2 of them had wrist pain and only 1 patient had discharge from the wound. The duration of the symptoms ranges from 2 months to 3 years. Only one of the patients had a history of pulmonary TB contact whereas the others didn't. All patients underwent surgery. All of the patients had positive cultures for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and histopathological examination showed necrotizing granulomatous inflammation from specimens taken intraoperatively, which confirmed the diagnosis of tuberculosis of the wrist.DISCUSSIONSOur cases show that the common presentation of tuberculosis of the wrist was comparable to other literature. Most of the patients presented with chronic wrist swelling with or without wrist pain. The diagnosis of the disease was delayed an average of 10 - 12 months from symptoms onset to diagnosis. S. Bayram et al reported a case where the diagnosis was made 45 months later. Due to its rarity, it often is misdiagnosed, resulting in delays in the proper treatment.CONCLUSIONThe diagnosis of the TB wrist remains difficult because of insidious and non-specific. presentation. However, early diagnosis is essential to avoid delays in treatment and complications. Hence, chronic wrist pain, and swelling with or without unexplained bone erosion around the wrist area must be highly suspected of being osteoarticular tuberculosis.