bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neointimal dissection – a rare complication to endovascular treatment in grafts and stent grafts
Authors: Larsen Anne Sofie F. , Aslam Shakil , Holmen Lars Olaf 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Neointima formation and hyperplasia in vascular grafts may lead to graft complications threatening the patency of the vascular reconstruction. A rare complication to endovascular treatment of grafts and stent grafts is dissection inside the graft.

Case report
We present here a case of a 69-year-old female with acute occlusion of the limb of an aorto-bifemoral graft for the third time, 16 years after the primary operation. As at the first two occasions, catheter-based intra-arterial thrombolysis was performed, but with residual stenosis inside the graft. During stent placement, dissection of the neointima or fibrin sheet occluded the inflow to the stent. The complication was resolved with placement of kissing stents.

Conclusions
It is important to recognize iatrogenic neointima dissection inside graft and stent grafts, as continued thrombolysis will not solve this, but increase the risk of hemorrhagic complications.
Are yarn quality prediction tools useful in the breeding of high yielding and better fibre quality cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)?
Authors: Liu Shiming , Gordon Stuart , Stiller Warwick 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackgroundThe approach of directly testing yarn quality to define fibre quality breeding objectives and progress the selection is attractive but difficult when considering the need for time and labour. The question remains whether yarn prediction tools from textile research can serve as an alternative. In this study, using a dataset from three seasons of field testing recombinant inbred line population, Cottonspec, a software developed by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) for predicting ring spun yarn quality from fibre properties measured by High Volume Instrument (HVI), was used to select improved fibre quality and lint yield in the population. The population was derived from an advanced generation inter-crossing of four CSIRO conventional commercial varieties. The Cottonspec program was able to provide an integrated index of the fibre qualities affecting yarn properties. That was compared with selection based on HVI-measured fibre properties, and two composite fibre quality variables, namely, fibre quality index (FQI), and premium and discount (PD) points. The latter represents the net points of fibre length, strength, and micronaire based on the Premiums and Discounts Schedule used in the market while modified by the inclusion of elongation.ResultsThe population had large variations for lint yield, fibre properties, predicted yarn properties, and composite fibre quality values. Lint yield with all fibre quality traits was not correlated. When the selection was conducted first to keep those with improved fibre quality, and followed for high yields, a large proportion in the resultant populations was the same between selections based on Cottonspec predicted yarn quality and HVI-measured fibre properties. They both exceeded the selection based on FQI and PD points.ConclusionsThe population contained elite segregants with improved yield and fibre properties, and Cottonspec predicted yarn quality is useful to effectively capture these elites. There is a need to further develop yarn quality prediction tools through collaborative efforts with textile mills, to draw better connectedness between fibre and yarn quality. This connection will support the entire cotton value chain research and evolution.
Photobiological modulation of hepatoma cell lines and hepatitis B subviral particles secretion in response to 650 nm low level laser treatment
Authors: Al-Toukhy Ghada M. , Suef Reda A. , Hassan Sarah , Farag Mohamed M. S. , El-Tayeb Tarek A. , Mansour Mohamed T. M. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a serious global health concern, with an increased incidence and risk of developing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients chronically infected with HBV are likely to experience chronic oxidative stress, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction. Photobiomodulation is induced by the absorption of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with a red or infrared laser by cytochrome C oxidase enzyme, resulting in mitochondrial photoactivation. Although it is widely used in clinical practice, the use of LLL as adjuvant therapy for persistent HBV infection is uncommon. This study aimed to investigate the effect of LLLT dosage from 2 J/cm2 to 10 J/cm2 of red diode laser (650 nm) on both hepatoma cell lines (HepG2.2.15 [integrated HBV genome stable cell model] and non-integrated HepG2), with a subsequent impact on HBVsvp production.

Methods
The present study evaluated the effects of different fluences of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) irradiation on various aspects of hepatoma cell behavior, including morphology, viability, ultrastructure, and its impact on HBVsvp synthesis.

Results
In response to LLLT irradiation, we observed a considerable reduction in viability, proliferation, and HBVsvp production in both hepatoma cell lines HepG2.2.15 and HepG2. Ultrastructural modification of mitochondria and nuclear membranes: This effect was dose, cell type, and time-dependent.

Conclusions
The use of LLLT may be a promising therapy for HCC and HBV patients by reducing cell proliferation, HBVsvp production, and altering mitochondrial and nuclear structure involved in cellular death inducers. Further research is required to explore its clinical application.
Numerical modeling of hydrodynamic added mass and added damping for elastic bridge pier
Authors: Wang Yanfeng , Ti Zilong 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThis paper presents a numerical model using the boundary element method for determining the hydrodynamic added mass and added damping of an elastic bridge pier with arbitrary cross-section. Combining the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory with the constant boundary element method, the modal superposition method is used to consider the deformable boundary conditions on the surface of elastic piers to couple the interaction between the elastic pier and water, and the equations for the hydrodynamic added mass and added damping of a general section pier considering the effect of pier-water coupling are derived. The accuracy of the developed model is verified by a benchmark experiment. The developed model is calculated for circular piers and compared with the added mass analytical formulation. The effects of oscillating frequency and structure geometry on the added mass and added damping are further investigated. Results demonstrate that the developed model can be used to solve the hydrodynamic added mass and added damping problems of the elastic bridge pier. Compared to the analytical formula, the developed method incorporates the consideration of added damping in the analysis of the pier-water coupling problem. Oscillating frequency and structure geometry have significant effects on added mass and added damping.
The Tully-Fisher law and dark matter effects derived via modified symmetries
Authors: Arraut Ivan 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
In any physical system, when we move from short to large scales, new spacetime symmetries emerge which help us to simplify the dynamics of the system. In this letter we demonstrate that certain variations on the symmetries of general relativity at large scales generate the effects equivalent to dark matter ones. In particular, we reproduce the Tully-Fisher law, consistent with the predictions proposed by MOND. Additionally, we demonstrate that the dark matter effects derived in this way are consistent with the predictions suggested by MOND, without modifying gravity.
Microtubules under mechanical pressure can breach dense actin networks
Authors: Gélin Matthieu , Schaeffer Alexandre , Gaillard Jérémie , Guérin Christophe , Vianay Benoit , Orhant-Prioux Magali , Braun Marcus , Leterrier Christophe , Blanchoin Laurent , Théry Manuel 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT
The crosstalk between the actin network and microtubules is essential for cell polarity. It orchestrates microtubule organization within the cell, driven by the asymmetry of actin architecture along the cell periphery. The physical intertwining of these networks regulates spatial organization and force distribution in the microtubule network. Although their biochemical interactions are becoming clearer, the mechanical aspects remain less understood. To explore this mechanical interplay, we developed an in vitro reconstitution assay to investigate how dynamic microtubules interact with various actin filament structures. Our findings revealed that microtubules can align and move along linear actin filament bundles through polymerization force. However, they are unable to pass through when encountering dense branched actin meshworks, similar to those present in the lamellipodium along the periphery of the cell. Interestingly, immobilizing microtubules through crosslinking with actin or other means allow the buildup of pressure, enabling them to breach these dense actin barriers. This mechanism offers insights into microtubule progression towards the cell periphery, with them overcoming obstacles within the denser parts of the actin network and ultimately contributing to cell polarity establishment.
Cystic fibrosis and pulmonary biofilms
Authors: Nugent Kenneth 
Published: October 2023

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disorder that involves the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator. This protein is an anion channel that transfers chloride and bicarbonate from an intracellular location to an extracellular location. This transfer supports the formation of a normal periciliary fluid layer that is essential for ciliary function and the clearance of particulates from bronchi. Changes in mucociliary function can result in chronic bronchitis and recurrent infections. Studies using micro computed tomography of explanted lungs from CF patients have demonstrated that there is a significant reduction in the number of terminal bronchi and that approximately 50% of these bronchi are obstructed with secretions. These airways become colonized with bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can form biofilms, and this results in chronic inflammation and chronic airway damage. Biofilm formation can be predicted when mucoid colonies of pseudomonas grow out on routine bacterial cultures of sputum. Studies on the prognosis of patients with CF have demonstrated that there is lack of clear genotype-phenotype correlation, but one recent longitudinal study did report an association between more severe CFTR genotypes and clinical outcomes. In addition, the degree of pulmonary dysfunction and pseudomonas colonization, especially with drug resistant pseudomonas, predict poor outcomes. Bacteria in biofilms are more resistant to antibiotics, and the structure of biofilms limits host defense responses. Treatment approaches include the use of more than one antibiotic, the addition of inhaled antibiotics, the use of enzymes that degrade biofilms, and the use of small molecules that inhibit community metabolism in biofilms.

Key words: cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, extracellular secretions, periciliary fluid, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, biofilms
Distributed loss-amplification modeling for the mid-infrared signal propagating in the myelinated and demyelinated nerve
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Wang Weijie , Huang Xialian , Liu Guo 
Published: October 2023

The terahertz (THz) to infrared (IR) neural signal model is a potential mechanism for explaining neural communication. Myelinated neurons could be a lossy dielectric waveguide that can propagate these THz–IR neural signals. We propose an electromagnetic loss-amplification model to describe the propagation characteristics of mid-IR signals on myelinated neurons. During transmission with loss and amplification, neural signal intensity can be consistently maintained at 15.9 pW in bands 55 to 75 THz. This phenomenon becomes more pronounced as the number of myelin sheaths increases. However, escalated degrees of demyelination result in a reduction of signal intensity from 15.9 to 10 pW. This phenomenon eventually disrupts the process of loss amplification, consequently impeding the transmission of the signal. These results may contribute to a deeper understanding of mid-IR signal propagation mechanisms in myelinated nerves and studies of diseases associated with demyelination.
Protective efficacy of six recombinant proteins as vaccine candidates against Echinococcus granulosus in dogs
Authors: Shao Guoqing , Hua Ruiqi , Song Hongyu , Chen Yanxin , Zhu Xiaowei , Hou Wei , Li Shengqiong , Yang Aiguo , Yang Guangyou 
Published: October 2023

Background
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is caused by the infection of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (E. granulosus s.l.), one of the most harmful zoonotic helminths worldwide. Infected dogs are the major source of CE transmission. While praziquantel-based deworming is a main measure employed to control dog infections, its efficacy is at times compromised by the persistent high rate of dog re-infection and the copious discharge of E. granulosus eggs into the environment. Therefore, the dog vaccine is a welcome development, as it offers a substantial reduction in the biomass of E. granulosus. This study aimed to use previous insights into E. granulosus functional genes to further assess the protective efficacy of six recombinant proteins in dogs using a two-time injection vaccination strategy.

Methods
We expressed and combined recombinant E. granulosus triosephosphate isomerase (rEgTIM) with annexin B3 (rEgANXB3), adenylate kinase 1 (rEgADK1) with Echinococcus protoscolex calcium binding protein 1 (rEgEPC1), and fatty acid-binding protein (rEgFABP) with paramyosin (rEgA31). Beagle dogs received two subcutaneous vaccinations mixed with Quil-A adjuvant, and subsequently orally challenged with protoscoleces two weeks after booster vaccination. All dogs were sacrificed for counting and measuring E. granulosus tapeworms at 28 days post-infection, and the level of serum IgG was detected by ELISA.

Results
Dogs vaccinated with rEgTIM&rEgANXB3, rEgADK1&rEgEPC1, and rEgFABP-EgA31 protein groups exhibited significant protectiveness, with a worm reduction rate of 71%, 57%, and 67%, respectively, compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the vaccinated groups exhibited an inhibition of worm growth, as evidenced by a reduction in body length and width (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the level of IgG in the vaccinated dogs was significantly higher than that of the control dogs (P < 0.05).

Conclusion
These verified candidates may be promising vaccines for the prevention of E. granulosus infection in dogs following two injections. The rEgTIM&rEgANXB3 co-administrated vaccine underscored the potential for the highest protective efficacy and superior protection stability for controlling E. granulosus infections in dogs.
Diagnostic accuracy of using capnography in verification of nasogastric tube placement among adult patients in hospital settings: Protocol of a diagnostic study
Authors: Chau Janita Pak Chun , Tong Danny Wah Kun , Lo Suzanne Hoi Shan , Sze Savina Yee Man , Kwok Molly Lai Mei , Lai Peter Chi Keung , Lam Harris Kai Cheong , Chung Josephine Yuen Man , Liu Xu , Chien Wai Tong , Choi Kai Chow 
Published: October 2023

Objective
To determine the diagnostic accuracy of end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) detection using capnography for verifying the correct placement of nasogastric tubes (NGTs) among adult patients in hospital settings.

Materials and methods
A prospective observational diagnostic study will be conducted. Patients ≥ 18-year-old and requiring the insertion of an NGT will be recruited using a convenience sampling method from 39 general medical and geriatric wards, intensive care units, accident and emergency departments, and subacute/rehabilitation/infirmary wards in 21 acute or subacute/convalescent/extended care hospitals. ETCO2 detection by sidestream capnography, which indicates an airway intubation of an NGT when a capnogram waveform or an ETCO2 level > 10mmHg (1.33 kPa) occurs, will serve as the index test. The reference standards will be the X-ray performed and pH value of gastric aspiration (pH ≤ 5.5) after the index test. Each participant will be included only once. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of capnography will be calculated to assess the diagnostic performance of capnography. The variability in diagnostic accuracy in participants with different characteristics will be explored by using chi-squared or Fisher’s exact tests. The time spent and the cost of the tests will be compared using the paired t-test. All statistical tests will be two-sided with a level of significance set at 0.05.

Discussion
This study will provide evidence on the diagnostic accuracy of capnography in verifying NGT placement and its applicability to patients in hospitals settings, since this evidence is limited in the current literature. In addition, it will help identify the optimal combination of tests in verifying the correct placement of NGTs and inform the update of clinical practice guidelines and stakeholders’ decisions on the adoption of ETCO2 detection as a routine method for verifying NGT placement.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05817864.
A webcam-based machine learning approach for three-dimensional range of motion evaluation
Authors: Wang Xiaoye Michael , Smith Derek T. , Zhu Qin 
Published: October 2023

Background
Joint range of motion (ROM) is an important quantitative measure for physical therapy. Commonly relying on a goniometer, accurate and reliable ROM measurement requires extensive training and practice. This, in turn, imposes a significant barrier for those who have limited in-person access to healthcare.

Objective
The current study presents and evaluates an alternative machine learning-based ROM evaluation method that could be remotely accessed via a webcam.

Methods
To evaluate its reliability, the ROM measurements for a diverse set of joints (neck, spine, and upper and lower extremities) derived using this method were compared to those obtained from a marker-based optical motion capture system.

Results
Data collected from 25 healthy adults demonstrated that the webcam solution exhibited high test-retest reliability, with substantial to almost perfect intraclass correlation coefficients for most joints. Compared with the marker-based system, the webcam-based system demonstrated substantial to almost perfect inter-rater reliability for some joints, and lower inter-rater reliability for other joints (e.g., shoulder flexion and elbow flexion), which could be attributed to the reduced sensitivity to joint locations at the apex of the movement.

Conclusions
The proposed webcam-based method exhibited high test-retest and inter-rater reliability, making it a versatile alternative for existing ROM evaluation methods in clinical practice and the tele-implementation of physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Evaluation of the Changes and Achievements Perceived in Graduate Tourism Education On the Basis of Transformative Learning Theory
Authors: Komşu Ufuk Cem 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
It is seen that postgraduate education gains importance to have new information, skills and experiments in a constantly changing and transforming the world. Postgraduate education in a field that shows a need for high-quality labor, such as the tourism industry, is expected to comply with this structure and create a transforming effect on the learners. This study aims to evaluate the personal changes, skills and learning outcomes that the students studying in postgraduate programs in the field of tourism can perceive as a result of the educational process on the basis of Transformative Learning Theory, and has been built according to the qualitative research model. As the data collection technique, the interview technique was employed to the study group which consists of 34 people who were designated through a purposeful sampling method. From the data obtained, totally eleven main codes and six groups of themes derived. The study findings showed that postgraduate tourism education generally provides the expected academic and vocational gains; however, they are not at a level that is effective in causing a transformation in individuals. On the other hand, it was detected that some transformations occurred in a small part of the study group in compliance with the transformative learning theory. Critical thinking, self-expression and showing empathy are remarkable among the new knowledge and skills defined as an achievement. Interrogative manner, acting self-confident, and being kind to different thoughts and cultures became prominent as the new personality traits. It will be beneficial for the researchers in the future to focus on the methods to improve the quality of education through program development in postgraduate tourism education. Furthermore, it can be suggested to implement such research periodically as long-term projects and to design them in mixed patterns.
Verification, implementation and harmonization of automated chemiluminescent immunoassays for MPO- and PR3-ANCA detection
Authors: Ogrič Manca , Švec Tinka , Poljšak Katjuša Mrak , Žigon Polona , Hočevar Alojzija , Čučnik Saša 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Objectives
Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) testing assists clinicians diagnose ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). We aimed to verify and harmonize chemiluminescent immunoassays for the detection of myeloperoxidase (MPO)- and proteinase 3 (PR3)-ANCA.

Methods
An in-house ELISA, a capture ELISA, and a chemiluminescent assay QUANTA Flash on a BIO-FLASH analyzer were used to detect MPO- and PR3-ANCA in sera from 39 patients with AAV, 55 patients with various non-AAV, and 66 patients with connective tissue diseases. The results of the assays were evaluated, and their clinical performance was assessed. The precision and linearity of the QUANTA Flash assays were determined, and likelihood ratios (LRs) for AAV at diagnosis were calculated.

Results
The precision and linearity of the QUANTA Flash assays were confirmed. Overall agreement between 97.5 and 98.8 % and Cohen’s kappa coefficients between 0.861 and 0.947 were observed for the results of the QUANTA Flash assays and ELISAs. The diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and ROC analysis of the assays for AAV were statistically similar (in-house ELISA 89.7 %, 95.0 %, and 0.937; capture ELISA 92.3 %, 98.3 %, and 0.939; and QUANTA Flash 89.7 %, 95.9 %, and 0.972). For the QUANTA Flash assay results, the interval-specific LRs for AAV at diagnosis were: 0–8 CU had LR 0.08, 8–29 CU had LR 1.03, 29–121 CU had LR 7.76, 121–191 CU had LR 12.4, and >191 CU had LR ∞.

Conclusions
The QUANTA Flash MPO and PR3 assays provide precise and consistent results and have comparable clinical utility for AAV. The calculated LRs were consistent with published LRs, confirming the utility of LRs for harmonization of ANCA results.