bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
3D Ultrasound based Determination of Skeletal Muscle Fascicle Orientations
Authors: Sahrmann Annika , Vosse Lukas , Siebert Tobias , Handsfield Geoffrey , Röhrle Oliver 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Architectural parameters of skeletal muscle such as pennation angle provide valuable information on the muscle's functionality, since they can be directly related to the muscle's force generating capacities.In this paper, we introduce a 3D ultrasound based workflow for determining 3D fascicle orientations of skeletal muscles.We used a custom-designed automated motor driven 3D ultrasound scanning system for obtaining 3D ultrasound images.From these, we applied a custom-developed multiscale-vessel enhancement filter based fascicle tracking algorithm and determined muscle volume and pennation angle.We conducted trials on a phantom and on the human tibialis anterior (TA) muscle of 10 healthy subjects in plantarflexion, neutral position (corresponding to neutral standing), and one resting position in between.The results of the phantom trials showed a high accuracy with a mean absolute error of 0.92 \(\pm\) 0.59\textdegree.TA pennation angles were significantly different between all positions for the deep muscle compartment and for the superficial compartment, angles are significantly increased for neutral position compared to plantarflexion and resting position.Pennation angles were also significantly different between superficial and deep compartment.The muscle volume measurements corresponding to the 3 ankle joint angles indicates the suitability of the method for capturing 3D muscle geometry.Absolute pennation angles in our study were slightly lower than recent literature.Decreased pennation angles for plantarflexion are consistent with previous studies.The techniques presented here will enable measurement and study of muscle fascicle architecture in a variety of clinical and scientific settings, accelerating our knowledge on muscle architecture and mechanics in vivo.
Optimized design strategy of 3D-printed drill guiding template for accurate pedicle screw insertion of subaxial cervical spine
Authors: Ma Jun , Yin Guoyong , Zhang Baofeng , Chen Cong , Jiang Yongliang 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Objective
To propose optimized design strategy of 3D-printed drill guiding template (DGT) for subaxial cervical pedicle screw (CPS) insertion and to evaluate the safety and accuracy of CPS placement.
Methods
Twenty-two consecutive patients (12 males and 10 females) with a mean age of 50.1 ± 13.4 years (range, 25–79) who underwent 3D-printed DGT-assisted subaxial cervical pedicle screw insertion in our center between August 2016 and October 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. DGTs were individually designed for each patient based on standardized optimal strategies. Accuracy of screw placement was assessed in post-operative CT scanning, and perioperative complications were recorded for each patient.
Results
A total of 118 CPSs were placed, among which 94.9% (112/118) were considered accurate (90 screws in Grade 0 and 22 screws in Grade 1) and 5.1% (6/118) were misplaced (5 screws in Grade 2 and 1 screw in Grade 3) according to Kaneyama’s method. The direction of CPS perforation (higher than Grade 0) was lateral in 85.7% (24/28), medial in 3.6% (1/28), superior in 3.6% (1/28), and inferior in 7.1% (2/28). Twelve lateral mass screws (LMSs) were inserted as alternative of contraindicated pedicles. No major neuromuscular complications were observed.
Conclusion
Our optimized design strategy of 3D-printed DGT might help to improve the accuracy and safety for subaxial CPS insertion, and decrease learning curve for spine surgeons, particularly for beginners.
Evaluating spectral indices from MODIS to predict maize and soybean regional yields
Authors: Ovando Gustavo , Casa Antonio , Diaz Guillermo , Soler Fernando , Diaz Pablo , Clemente Juan Pablo 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
A regression model with spectral information and dummy variables was developed and evaluated for predicting regional maize and soybean yield in the agricultural rain-fed region of Córdoba, Argentina. The study area comprises eleven departments that currently harvest more than 80% of the provincial production of maize and soybean. In this study monthly Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) product (MOD13C2) and daytime Land Surface Temperature (LST) product (MOD11C3) derived from the MODIS sensor on board of TERRA satellite were used as model input. From these data Temperature Vegetation Dryness Index (TVDI) was calculated and assessed also. In total, 19 summer crop seasons were analyzed between 2000/2001 and 2018/2019. There is a close and negative relationship between the NDVI, with both LST and TVDI. The best regression models with dummy variables were selected to estimate yield variation on a regional scale are integrated both with spectral information, as LST from January and NDVI from February, and factors linked to edaphic and management differences of each department, as well as the technological improvement in the model for soybean. By using an adaptation of the Leave One Out Cross-Validation (LOOCVad) technique, model accuracy was verified. The Residual Standard Error (RSE) obtained each year was, mostly, lower than that obtained for the entire record (general models). The mean RSE obtained for the set of years was 279.4 and 579.4 kg ha− 1 for soybean and maize, respectively, which are below those ​​obtained from the general models (354.7 and 788.6 kg ha− 1, respectively).
Evaluating evaporite minerals sedimentation potential and the origin of brine chemical composition
Authors: Ghadimi Feridon , Azadifar Sara 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Mighan playa is a closed intracontinental watershed and located 15 kilometers northeast of Arak city. The playa water level is affected by the sodium sulfate company's effluent, the purified wastewater plant, underground water, precipitation and evaporation. Mighan playa consists of two parts of island in the center and a lake in the periphery and is the most important pole of sodium sulfate extraction in Iran. In order to study brine and its evolution, 25 samples were taken from the playa, and it determined EC, TH, pH, Ca, Mg, K, Na, Cl, SO4, Br, I, Li, HCO3, NO3 and PO4. The inlet water shows the molar ratio of HCO3 < < Ca + Mg and the diagram of the geochemical evolution of Mighan brine follows the geochemical path (II), so the type of Mighan brine is Na-Cl-SO4, which authorized with Piper diagram. Also, according to the results of saturation indexes, Mighan brine has the possibility of forming evaporite deposits such as glauberite, mirablite, thenardite, halite, gypsum, calcite and small extent dolomite, anhydrite. The most important and effective mineralization factors were identified by factor analysis and factorial fuzzy maps. The salinity of Mighan playa brines is related to anions and cations that originate from the gypsum and salt layers in the northern part. Alkalinity and bicarbonate resulting from the dissolution of limestone rocks in the southern layers of the Mighan watershed.
Robot-aided Assessment and Associated Brain Lesions of Impaired Ankle Proprioception in Chronic Stroke
Authors: Huang Qiyin , Elangovan Naveen , Zhang Mingming , de Winckel Ann Van , Konczak Jürgen 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Impaired ankle proprioception strongly predicts balance dysfunction in chronic stroke. However, only sparse data on ankle position sense and no systematic data on ankle motion sense dysfunction in stroke are available. Moreover, the lesion sites underlying impaired ankle proprioception have not been comprehensively delineated. Using robotic technology, this study quantified ankle proprioceptive deficits post-stroke and determined the associated brain lesions.
Methods
Twelve adults with chronic stroke and 13 neurotypical adults participated. A robot passively plantarflexed a participant’s ankle to two distinct positions or at two distinct velocities. Participants subsequently indicated which of the two movements was further/faster. Based on the stimulus-response data, psychometric just-noticeable-difference (JND) thresholds and intervals of uncertainty (IU) were derived as measures on proprioceptive bias and precision. To determine group differences, Welch’s t-test and the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test were performed for the JND threshold and IU, respectively. Voxel-based lesion subtraction analysis identified the brain lesions associated with observed proprioceptive deficits in adults with stroke.
Results
83% of adults with stroke exhibited abnormalities in either position or motion sense, or both. JND and IU measures were significantly elevated compared to the control group (Position sense: + 77% in JND, + 148% in IU; Motion sense: +153% in JND, + 78% in IU). Lesions in the parietal, frontal, and temporoparietal regions were associated with deficits in both senses, lesions in the medial/lateral occipital cortex were exclusively linked to impaired position sense, and temporal pole lesions were associated with impaired motion sense.
Conclusions
This is the first study to document the prevalence and magnitude of ankle position and motion sense impairment in adults with chronic stroke. Proprioceptive dysfunction was characterized by elevated JND thresholds and increased uncertainty in perceiving ankle position/motion. Associated cortical lesions for both proprioceptive senses were largely overlapping, but temporal pole lesions were independently linked to motion sense dysfunction.
Electrochemical study and adsorption parameter investigation of copper in a chicken bone ash inhibited NaCl environment
Authors: Omoegun Olumide G. , Fayomi Ojo S. I. , Atiba Joshua O. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
By examining the corrosive behaviour and adsorption characteristics of copper in a corrosive medium containing 0.5 M NaCl, the potential of chicken bone as a corrosion inhibitor was examined in this study. With inhibitor concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 0.8 g, the experiments were carried out at temperatures between 30 and 60°C. The effectiveness of chicken bone ash as a corrosion inhibitor was evaluated using a variety of electrochemical analysis techniques, such as polarisation analysis and open circuit potential measurement. The electrochemical analysis' findings demonstrated that chicken bone ash functions as a cathodic inhibitor, significantly slowing copper corrosion. The inhibitor outperformed all other concentrations tested and demonstrated its maximum inhibition efficiency at a temperature of 50°C. These findings were further supported by the adsorption parameter analysis, which showed that the copper surface responded quickly to the inhibitor's adsorption, primarily through a physical adsorption process. A promising alternative for protecting copper in corrosive environments is the use of chicken bone as a corrosion inhibitor. The findings imply that chicken bone ash has inherent inhibitory properties that effectively slow down corrosion.
The renoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of human urine-derived stem cells in acute kidney injury animals
Authors: Kuang Yuanyuan , Fan Chenyu , Long Xiaojun , Zheng Jiajia , Zeng Yunsi , Wei Yuhui , Zhang Jiasheng , Yu Shuangjin , Chen Tong , Ruan Hehuan , Wang Yi , Na Ning , Zhou Yiming , Qiu Jiang 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is defined by a sudden loss of kidney function, which is often caused by drugs, toxins, and infections. The large spectrum of AKI implies diverse pathophysiological mechanisms. In many cases, AKI can be lethal, and kidney replacement therapy is frequently needed. However, current treatments are not satisfying. Thus, developing novel therapies for AKI is essential. Adult stem cells possess regenerative powers and play an important role in medical research and disease treatment.
Methods: Here we isolated and characterized a distinct human urine-derived stem cell, which expresses both proximal tubular cell and mesenchymal stem cell genes as well as certain unique genes.
Results:We discovered that these cells exhibited robust protective effects on tubular cells and anti-inflammatory effects on macrophages in vitro. In an ischemia-reperfusion induced acute kidney injury mouse model, transplantation of USCs significantly protected the kidney morphology and functions in vivo.
Conclusions: In summary, our results highlight the effectiveness of USCs in protecting PTC injury and impeding macrophage polarization as well as the secretion of pro-inflammatory interleukins, suggesting the potential of USCs as a novel cell therapy in AKI.
Inhibiting the expression of PGK1 can improve the damage of nerve cells caused by acrylamide
Authors: Li Hong-Qiu , Wang Xiao-Li , Pan Yu-Lin , Lei Ya-Ting , Zhao Fang-Fang , Li Zhi-Ming , Ma Wei-Wei , Hao Xiao-Xiao , Yu Cui-Ping , Wang Sheng-Yuan , Wu Yong-Hui 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Recent studies have shown that phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1) may improve neurodegeneration. However, the role of PGK1 in acrylamide(ACR)-induced neuronal damage is not yet clear. In this study, SD rats were treated with 6 mg/kg and 18 mg/kg of ACR, and PC12 cells were treated with 1.25 mM and 2.5 mM of ACR, and PC12 cells were transfected with PGK1 siRNA. Behavioral responses and histopathological changes in the rats were monitored, and transmission electron microscopy was used to observe changes in neurons and internal organelles in the hippocampal tissues of the various groups. Western blot and RT-qPCR were used to detect changes in the expression of neuronal-related proteins BDNF, Syn1, Nrf2 signaling pathway-related proteins and PGK1 in the hippocampal tissues of the rats and PC12 cells. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were used to analyze PGK1 expression in the hippocampal tissues of the rats. The results showed that after ACR treatment, obvious hindlimb clasping effect was observed in rats, hippocampal tissue pathology occurred, neuronal boundaries became blurred, mitochondria swelled, and organelles became sparse. BDNF and Syn1 mRNA expression and protein levels decreased both in vivo and in vitro, while Nrf2 and PGK1 mRNA expression and protein levels increased both in vivo and in vitro. In PC12 cells, inhibition of PGK1 can alleviate cell damage, and increase the expression of BDNF and Syn1 while Nrf2 expression is suppressed. These results suggest that inhibiting the expression of PGK1 can protect nerve cell damage induced by ACR.
Drug Interaction Between Co-packaged Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir and Tacrolimus might cause Hyponatremia and Tacrolimus Intoxication in Lung Transplant Recipients
Authors: Lo Chien-Ming , Chen Wei-Hsun , Tsai Meng-Yun , Lu Hung-I , Hsiao Yu-Hsin , Chen Yu , Wu Hsuan-Feng , Huang Kuo-Tung , Wang Yi-Hsi 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
COVID-19 infection in recipients of lung transplants could be lethal owing to the immunosuppressant agents. Antiviral agents should be administered to these patients. Co-packaged nirmatrelvir-ritonavir is a new agent that is used in combination with antiviral medications. Here, we report a case of high serum tacrolimus concentration and hyponatremia after co-packaged nirmatrelvir-ritonavir administration.
Genetic evidence for functions of Chloroplast CA in Pyropia yezoensis: decreased CCM but increased starch accumulation
Authors: Baoyu Zhang , Xueying Liu , Xiujun Xie , Li Huan , Zhizhuo Shao , Guangce Wang 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
To adapt to changes in the intertidal environment, intertidal macroalgae have evolved complicated Ci utilization mechanisms. However, our knowledge regarding the CO2 concentrating mechanism (CCM) of macroalgae is limited. Carbonic anhydrase (CA), a key component of CCM, plays important roles in many physiological reactions in various organisms. While there are a large number of genes encoding CA in the Pyropia yezoensis genome, the exact function of specific CA in P. yezoensis remains elusive. To explore the specific function of chloroplast CA in intertidal macroalgae, we produced chloroplast-localized βCA1 knockdown mutants of P. yezoensis through RNA interference, and Pyca1i mutants showed a notable decrease in leaf area and overall biomass, as well as decreased soluble protein and unsaturated fatty acid content under different DIC conditions. However, Pyca1i mutants showed relatively higher starch content compared to the wild type. The activity of enzymes involved in the Calvin cycle, photorespiration, pentose-phosphate pathway and floridean starch synthesis of P. yezoensis indicated an effective starch accumulation pathway after interference with βCA1. All results suggest that the decreased activity of PyβCA1 impaired the CCM and development of thalli of P. yezoensis but stimulated starch accumulation in the cytoplasm through feedback to the photorespiration pathway and PP pathway to replenish intermediates for the Calvin cycle. This study is the first to explore the specific function of chloroplast CA in intertidal macroalgae using genomic technology. The results provide valuable insights into the adaptation mechanisms of intertidal macroalgae to their environment.
Causal relationships between inflammatory factors and Periodontitis: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wei Mianxing , Yang Qian , Dai Xiaoying , Li Yuxuan , Guo Qingquan 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Objective
Periodontitis, a inflammatory disease, has been associated with systemic inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP). However, the causal links between these factors and periodontitis are unclear. This study aims to elucidate these causal relationships using a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) approach. (MR-PRESSO) technique.
Materials and Methods
Materials and Methods: We utilized a two-way summary-level MR design, capitalizing on publicly available summary statistics from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for periodontitis and 42 systemic inflammatory markers, including CRP. We selected robust, independent single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as instrumental variables and performed the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method to analyze the Wald ratios for each genetic variant. To account for potential pleiotropic bias, sensitivity analyses were conducted using methods such as MR-Egger regression, weighted median strategies, and the MR-Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO) technique.
Results
Our analysis reveals that higher levels of IL-1β (IVW estimate odds ratio [ORIVW] per SD genetic cytokines alteration: 2.26; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02 − 5.00; P = 0.05), IL-6 (0.54, 0.29 − 1.00; P = 0.05), and IL-9 (0.56, 0.32 − 0.98; P = 0.04) are associated with an increased susceptibility to periodontitis. In contrast, no significant relationship was found between CRP or any other systemic inflammatory markers and periodontitis.
Conclusion
Our analysis specifically identifies increased levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-9 as significant risk factors for developing periodontitis. However, no substantial link was observed between CRP and other inflammatory markers studied, implying that the inflammatory pathway to periodontitis may be cytokine-specific.
Clinical Relevance:
Our study provides genetic evidence into the interplay between CRP, systemic inflammatory markers, and periodontitis. Treatment strategies aimed at specific inflammatory markers could hold potential for reducing the risk of periodontitis.
Optimizing Production of Chemicals Firm using Linear Programming Technique
Authors: Atif Muhammad , Abidin Zain Ul , Mudasir Muhammad 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
This paper is an insight Linear Programming problem for different products produced by PASVEP Chemicals Production Firm and its scare resource allocation. For the purpose, the linear program model was developed with the definite objective function and adequate constraints available to the Firm. The study conducted because the firm has optimization issues in production, and therefore needed optimal solution. The result from linear mathematical model using TORA software rightly identified the optimization problem arises due to inefficient allocation of scare resources. The application of sensitivity analysis, in this regard, provided solution where to resources divert to most needed raw material to get optimal level of production. Based on outcome, the study recommended to use data-driven decision-making methods like linear programming being first and successful application in chemical industry to optimize its resource allocation. The study also recommended that the firm should continue the production of all four products, however, with more focus on PVS solution to further enhance its output.
Role of the hippocampus in decision making under uncertainty
Authors: Attaallah Bahaaeddin , Petitet Pierre , Zambellas Rhea , Toniolo Sofia , Maio Maria , Ganse-Dumrath Akke , Irani Sarosh , Manohar Sanjay , Husain Masud 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

The role of the hippocampus in decision making is poorly understood. Because of its prospective and inferential functions, we hypothesized that it might be required specifically when decisions involve evaluation of uncertain values. Here, a group of individuals with autoimmune limbic encephalitis (ALE) – a condition known to focally affect the hippocampus – was tested on how they evaluate reward against uncertainty compared to evaluation of reward against another key attribute – physical effort. Across four experiments requiring participants to make trade-offs between reward, uncertainty and effort, ALE patients demonstrated blunted sensitivity to reward and effort whenever uncertainty was considered, despite demonstrating intact uncertainty sensitivity. By contrast, valuation of these two attributes (reward and effort) was intact on uncertainty-free tasks. Reduced sensitivity to changes in reward under uncertainty correlated with severity of hippocampal damage. Together, these findings provide evidence for a context-sensitive role of the hippocampus in value-based decision making, apparent specifically under conditions of uncertainty.
Development And Evaluation Of A Meloxicam Topical Ointment For Localized Drug Delivery
Authors: Malvade Pratik V. , Dhamak Kavita V. , Muntode Prasad J. , Mule Pratiksha S. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The introduction of this research paper sheds light on the background and significance of employing topical drug delivery methods to enhance the localized effects of NSAIDs, such as meloxicam. The introductory section underscores the potential benefits of utilizing skin penetration enhancement techniques to augment the efficacy of the ointment. The materials and techniques section comprehensively outlines the constituents employed in the study, including meloxicam and excipients. Special attention is dedicated to ensuring the stability and compatibility of the formulation components, with thorough investigations into drug-excipient interactions. Following the formulation's development, a meticulous characterization of the ointments is conducted, encompassing their physicochemical attributes and drug release profiles. Concurrently, in vitro skin permeation experiments elucidate meloxicam's capability to permeate the skin and elicit its therapeutic effects. The resultant characterization data yield valuable insights into the physical characteristics of the ointments. In conclusion, this thesis study substantially advances our comprehension of meloxicam topical ointment formulation development and evaluation for localized drug delivery. The findings gleaned from this study provide invaluable insights into the feasibility and effectiveness of employing a meloxicam-infused ointment. Such an approach holds the promise of offering a compelling alternative to conventional systemic administration, mitigating systemic side effects, and concurrently maximizing the localized therapeutic advantages of meloxicam.