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Background Cortical visual prostheses often use penetrating electrode arrays to deliver microstimulation to the visual cortex. To optimize electrode placement within the cortex, the neural responses to microstimulation at different cortical depths must first be understood. Objective We investigated how the neural responses evoked by microstimulation in cortex varied with cortical depth, of both stimulation and response. Methods A 32-channel single shank electrode array was inserted into the primary visual cortex of anaesthetized rats, such that it spanned all cortical layers. Microstimulation with currents up to 14 μA (single biphasic pulse, 200 μs per phase) was applied at depths spanning 1600 μm, while simultaneously recording neural activity on all channels within a response window 2.25–11 ms. Results Stimulation elicited elevated neuronal firing rates at all depths of cortex. Compared to deep sites, superficial stimulation sites responded with higher firing rates at a given current and had lower thresholds. The laminar spread of evoked activity across cortical depth depended on stimulation depth, in line with anatomical models. Conclusion Stimulation in the superficial layers of visual cortex evokes local neural activity with the lowest thresholds, and stimulation in the deep layers evoked the most activity across the cortical column. In conjunction with perceptual reports, these data suggest that the optimal electrode placement for cortical microstimulation prostheses has electrodes positioned in layers 2/3, and at the top of layer 5.

The status of forest resources in Japan was reviewed for forest stock volumes, carbon storage, biomass, and harvested wood products. This paper summarises the historical background and development of wood products, including technology and structural element dimensions, and presents research by the author on the structural element characteristics of lamina, veneer, strands, particles, fibers, fines, and nanofibers.

Background: Laryngeal cancer comprises 2 to 5% of all malignant diseases diagnosed annually worldwide. Cartilage invasion by the laryngeal cancer is of great importance through the staging of laryngeal carcinoma according to TNM classi-fication and has a great impact on management plan. There is a scarcity in the published literature regarding the comparison between MRI and CT for assessment of cartilage involvement. Aim of Study: To assess the validity of MRI and to compare this with CT findings in predicting inner and outer thyroid cartilage laminae invasion in patients with laryngeal carcinoma. Patients and Methods: The present study was an obser-vational analytical study that was carried out from January 2018 to June 2019 at the Radiology Department of Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University. A total of 30 patients with laryngeal carcinoma were included. CT and MRI was done for all patients. Results: There was a good agreement between readers in CT interpretation in term of inner lamina involvement (K=0.78) and very good agreement in term of outer lamina involvement (K=0.87). While in MRI interpretation, there was a very good agreement between readers in term of inner lamina involvement (K=0.83) and outer lamina involvement (K=0.92). However higher accuracy & confidence levels were found on interpre-tation of both CT and MRI together. We found a higher interobserver agreement between interpretation of CT and MRI together (K=1.00). Conclusion: MRI showed high validity and precision in detecting inner and outer thyroid lamina invasion by laryngeal caner than CT scan. We found that the combination of CT and MRI together was associated with more accuracy and confidence level for the readers.

A large proportion of the metazoan genome is spatially segregated at the nuclear periphery through genomic contacts with the nuclear lamina, a thin meshwork of lamin filaments that lines the inner-nuclear membrane. Lamina-associated domains are believed to contribute to the regulation of gene transcription and to provide structural three-dimensional support to the organization of the genome in A and B compartments and topologically associating domains. In this review, we will evaluate recent work addressing the role of lamina-associated domains in three-dimensional genome organization and propose experimental frameworks that may expand our understanding of their interdependence.

The defining feature of the eukaryotic cell, the nucleus, is bounded by a double envelope. This envelope and the nuclear pores within it play a critical role in separating the genome from the cytoplasm. It also presents cells with a challenge. How are cells to remodel the nuclear compartment boundary during mitosis without compromising nuclear function? In the two billion years since the emergence of the first cells with a nucleus, eukaryotes have evolved a range of strategies to do this. At one extreme, the nucleus is disassembled upon entry into mitosis and then reassembled anew in the two daughter cells. At the other, cells maintain an intact nuclear compartment boundary throughout the division process. In this review, we discuss common features of the division process that underpin remodelling mechanisms, the topological challenges involved and speculate on the selective pressures that may drive the evolution of distinct modes of division.

Abstract Background/objective Until 2010, adults underwent surgical treatment for maxillary expansion; however, with the advent of micro-implant-assisted rapid maxillary expansion (MARME), the availability of less invasive treatment options has increased. Nevertheless, individuals with severe transverse maxillary deficiency do not benefit from this therapy. This has aroused interest in creating a new device that allows the benefit of maxillary expansion for these individuals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of three MARME models according to tension points, force distribution, and areas of concentration in the craniofacial complex when transverse forces are applied using finite element analysis. Materials and methods Digital modeling of the three MARME models was performed. Model A comprised five components: one body screw expander and four adjustable arms with rings for mini-implant insertion. These arms have an individualized height adjustment that allows MARME positioning according to the patient’s palatal anatomy, thereby preventing body screw expander collision with the lateral mucosa in severe cases of maxillary deficiency. Model B was a maxillary expander with screw rings joined to the body, and model C was similar to model B, except that model C had open rings for the insertion of the mini-implants. Through the MEF (Ansys software), the stresses, distribution, and area of concentration of the stresses were evaluated when transverse forces of 7.85 N were applied. Results The three models maintained the following pattern: model C presented weak stress peaks with limited distribution and lower concentration area, model B obtained median stress peaks with better distribution when compared to that of model C, and model A showed better stress distribution and larger concentration area. In model A, tensions were located in the lateral lamina of the pterygoid process, which is an important site for maxillary expansion. The limitation of the present study was that it did not include the periodontal tissues and muscles in the finite element method evaluation. Conclusions Model A showed the best stress distribution conditions. In cases of severe atresia, model A seems to be an excellent option.

PRECIS The development of beta-zone peripapillary atrophy (β-PPA) and focal lamina cribrosa defect (FLD) was significantly associated with decreased peripapillary optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) vessel parameters in young myopic eyes. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to investigate whether β-PPA and FLD affect peripapillary vessel density (VD) or perfusion density (PD) from OCTA in young myopic eyes. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a cross-sectional study, 330 eyes of 165 healthy volunteers with myopia were involved. Eyes underwent OCTA to measure peripapillary PD and VD. Eyes were grouped according to the presence of β-PPA or FLD: eyes without β-PPA or FLD (group A), eyes with β-PPA but without FLD (group B), and eyes with both β-PPA and FLD (group C). PD and VD were compared among 3 groups, and linear mixed-effect regression model was used to investigate the determinants of PD. RESULTS β-PPA was found in 219 eyes (66.4%), and FLD was detected in 27 eyes (8.2%). The average VD and PD were greatest in group A (19.13±2.04 mm-1 and 0.375±0.038), followed by group B (18.34±2.26 mm-1 and 0.363±0.042) and group C (16.71±2.81 mm-1 and 0.330±0.052) (P

Purpose To provide imaging evidence of the feasibility and clinical efficacy of a new full lamina back shift spinal canal enlargement technique. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 64 patients with multisegment cervical spondylotic myelopathy caused by cervical stenosis. Of these, 32 patients underwent the new full lamina back shift spinal canal enlargement technique (as observation group) and 32 patients underwent single open‐door miniature titanium plate internal fixation (as control group). The computed tomography (CT) data of both groups were imported into Mimics 17.0 software to measure the median sagittal diameter and cross‐sectional area of the spinal canal. Photoshop CS5 was employed to measure the drift distance of the spinal cord on MR images to perform a comparative study of the imaging parameters from the two groups. Results The T2‐weighted MR images in both groups showed continuous recovery of the cerebrospinal fluid signal in the C3–C7 range. The enlarged spinal canal cross‐sectional area (mm2) of each segment after the new full lamina back shift spinal canal enlargement technique was 130.90 ± 20.52 (C3), 180.81 ± 18.86 (C4), 240.48 ± 35.43 (C5), 145.93 ± 36.94 (C6), and 153.16 ± 36.28 (C7), and the enlarged median sagittal diameter (mm) was 5.31 ± 1.13 (C3), 8.8 ± 1.28 (C4), 10.28 ± 1.68 (C5), 9.46 ± 1.48 (C6), and 9.22 ± 1.12 (C7). Both parameters were significantly superior to single open‐door miniature titanium plate internal fixation (P 0.05). Conclusion The new full lamina back shift spinal canal enlargement technique achieved a thorough spinal canal decompression effect on imaging while ensuring a reasonable spinal drift distance and few surgical complications. The clinical curative effect of the new technique was precise., The imaging parameters of the new operation and single‐door laminoplasty were compared, and the new operation was found to reduce the incidence of related surgical complications while achieving complete decompression and obtaining the satisfactory clinical efficacy. Thus, the method could be promoted.

The present study attempted to validate the “Burcev freehand method” based on anatomical observations in Indian cadavers. The study was conducted on 32 cervical pedicle screws (CPSs) that were placed in four cadavers by the authors according to the “freehand technique,” described by Burcev et al, without the aid of fluoroscopy and the trajectory verified by computed tomography scans. The screws were designated as satisfactory, permissible, or unacceptable. Descriptive variables were represented in number and percentages, continuous variables were represented as mean ± standard deviation (SD). Of the 32 CPSs placed, 24 (75%) exhibited a satisfactory position, 1 (3%) exhibited a permissible position, and 7 (22%) exhibited an unacceptable position. Of the seven CPSs in the unacceptable group, four exhibited a lateral breach and three exhibited a medial breach, whereas the CPS in the permissible group exhibited a medial breach. The overall angle with contralateral lamina in the horizontal plane in terms of mean ± SD was 175.43 ± 2.82, 169.49, and 169.65 ± 6.46 degrees in the satisfactory, permissible, and unacceptable groups, respectively. In the sagittal plane, the screws exhibited an angle of 88.15 ± 3.56 degrees. No breach was observed superiorly or inferiorly. The “Burcev technique” is replicable with similar results in cadavers. Further studies must be conducted in a clinical setting to ensure its safety.

Cucurbit phloem is complex, with large sieve tubes on both sides of the xylem (bicollateral phloem), and extrafascicular elements that form an intricate web linking the rest of the vasculature. Little is known of the physical interconnections between these networks or their functional specialization, largely because the extrafascicular phloem strands branch and turn at irregular angles. Here, export in the phloem from specific regions of the lamina of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) was mapped using carboxyfluorescein and 14 C as mobile tracers. We also mapped vascular architecture by conventional microscopy and X-ray computed tomography using optimized whole-tissue staining procedures. Differential gene expression in the internal (IP) and external phloem (EP) was analyzed by laser-capture microdissection followed by RNA-seq. The vascular bundles of the lamina form a nexus at the petiole junction, emerging in a predictable pattern, each bundle conducting photoassimilate from a specific region of the blade. The vascular bundles of the stem interconnect at the node, facilitating lateral transport around the stem. Elements of the extrafascicular phloem traverse the stem and petiole obliquely, joining the IP and EP of adjacent bundles. Using pairwise comparisons and weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA), we found differences in gene expression patterns between the petiole and stem and between IP and EP, and we identified hub genes of tissue-specific modules. Genes related to transport were expressed primarily in the EP while those involved in cell differentiation and development as well as amino acid transport and metabolism were expressed mainly in the IP.

The increasing demand for sustainable architecture has led to a growing interest in wood structures. Hence, ensuring their structural stability and strength performance is an imperative. This study investigated the nail bearing strength and withdrawal resistance of mixed cross-laminated timber (CLT) using Japanese larch and yellow poplar layers. The mixed CLT was composed of three larch laminas (major) and two yellow poplar laminas (minor). The bearing strength of the mixed CLT decreased as the ratio of the thickness of the minor lamina to nail depth increased. The nail withdrawal resistance differed in the penetration and axial directions of the laminas. In the direction perpendicular to the grain, the withdrawal resistance load of the yellow poplar lamina was measured to be 1.45-times that of the larch lamina. The withdrawal resistance of the mixed CLT with the yellow poplar layer was 17% higher than that with larch. Therefore, the length of the nail used for the mixed CLT should be selected based on the thickness of the minor lamina to achieve efficient bearing and withdrawal resistance of the nail connection.

Chondromyxoid fibroma; a rarely found tumor, contributing

Summary Background Hand rejuvenation has become increasingly popular in esthetic medicine. Hand rejuvenation with injectables remains challenging, and there are no established practice guidelines. The calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) filler injection is currently one of the most common procedures. This study aimed to identify the layer of the hand dorsum that is lifted by skin pinching and to identify the layer where an injectable filler would be placed based on the anatomical study and ultrasound findings. Methods The anatomic layers of the cadaveric hands were examined using the skin pinching method. Anatomic dissections and histological examinations were performed on four fixed and five fresh cadaveric hands to reveal the anatomical layers in which the CaHA filler was administered. Furthermore, 20 patients were treated with the CaHA filler, and the Doppler ultrasound was used to reveal the proper anatomical layers for filler placement. Results The study of the cadaveric hands showed that skin pinching can ensure safe entry points and can guide the cannula into safe planes without compromising the large superficial veins. A filler injection with skin pinching in cadaveric hands demonstrated that the filler was introduced primarily in the dorsal intermediate lamina where the veins are present. This was further confirmed by ultrasound findings. Conclusion The dorsal intermediate lamina, which has the veins is a relatively loose structure, and the cannula was moved along this space. When the layer is stretched by skin pinching, the veins run underneath. The dorsal intermediate lamina is the appropriate layer to inject the filler.

Astrocytes are indispensable for proper neuronal functioning. Given the diverse needs of neuronal circuits and the variety of tasks astrocytes perform, the perceived homogeneous nature of astrocytes has been questioned. In the spinal dorsal horn, complex neuronal circuitries regulate the integration of sensory information of different modalities. The dorsal horn is organized in a distinct laminar manner based on termination patterns of high‐ and low‐threshold afferent fibers and neuronal properties. Neurons in laminae I (L1) and II (L2) integrate potentially painful, nociceptive information, whereas neurons in lamina III (L3) and deeper laminae integrate innocuous, tactile information from the periphery. Sensory information is also integrated by an uncharacterized network of astrocytes. How these lamina‐specific characteristics of neuronal circuits of the dorsal horn are of functional importance for properties of astrocytes is currently unknown. We addressed if astrocytes in L1, L2, and L3 of the upper dorsal horn of mice are differentially equipped for the needs of neuronal circuits that process sensory information of different modalities. We found that astrocytes in L1 and L2 were characterized by a higher density, higher expression of GFAP, Cx43, and GLAST and a faster coupling speed than astrocytes located in L3. L1 astrocytes were more responsive to Kir4.1 blockade and had higher levels of AQP4 compared to L3 astrocytes. In contrast, basic membrane properties, network formation, and somatic intracellular calcium signaling were similar in L1–L3 astrocytes. Our data indicate that the properties of spinal astrocytes are fine‐tuned for the integration of nociceptive versus tactile information., Main Points In‐depth characterization of spinal astrocytes in the upper dorsal horn of mice.Distinct lamina‐ and circuit‐specific properties of spinal astrocytes.Fine‐tuning of astrocytic properties for the integration of nociceptive versus tactile information.

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. We here report on the use of in vivo optical imaging to study lamina I projection neurons and their response to cutaneous stimuli., Lamina I of the dorsal horn, together with its main output pathway, lamina I projection neurons, has long been implicated in the processing of nociceptive stimuli, as well as the development of chronic pain conditions. However, the study of lamina I projection neurons is hampered by technical challenges, including the low throughput and selection biases of traditional electrophysiological techniques. Here we report on a technique that uses anatomical labelling strategies and in vivo imaging to simultaneously study a network of lamina I projection neurons in response to electrical and natural stimuli. Although we were able to confirm the nociceptive involvement of this group of cells, we also describe an unexpected preference for innocuous cooling stimuli. We were able to characterize the thermal responsiveness of these cells in detail and found cooling responses decline when exposed to stable cold temperatures maintained for more than a few seconds, as well as to encode the intensity of the end temperature, while heating responses showed an unexpected reliance on adaptation temperatures.

PURPOSE To compare lamina cribrosa curvature (LCC) in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PXG) and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and to elucidate the factors associated with LCC in both groups. DESIGN Retrospective, cross-sectional study. METHOD Forty eyes with PXG and visual field mean deviation-matched 40 eyes with POAG were included. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography enhanced depth imaging was used to acquire LC images. The LCC index (LCCI) was calculated as LCC depth/LCC width × 100. Calculated LCCI values were compared between the PXG and POAG groups. Logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the factors related to the presence of PXG. Factors associated with LCCI were determined by uni- and multivariable linear regression analyses in both groups. RESULT Visual field mean deviation (-11.7 ± 9.7 dB vs -1.0 ± 8.5 dB, P = .731) and retinal nerve fiber thickness (647.4 ± 22.7 μm vs 68.3 ± 19.9 μm, P = .857) did not differ between the 2 groups. However, the mean (8.8 ± 2.9 in PXG, 6.6 ± 1.9 in POAG) and sectoral LCCIs assessed at 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120° were significantly greater in the PXG than in the POAG group (all, P < .05), but not at 150° (P = .113). Logistic regression analysis revealed that higher average LCCI (odds ratio [OR] = 1.509 [95% confidence interval 1.180-2.047], P = .003) and older age (OR = 1.074 [95% confidence interval 1.017-1.147], P = .019) were associated with the presence of PXG. IOP was associated with mean LCCI only in the POAG group (β = 0.150 [95% confidence interval 0.018-0.281], P = .027) while none of the factors showed association with LCCI in PXG. CONCLUSION PXG eyes had more steeply curved LC than POAG eyes with a similar level of glaucoma severity. The clinical implication(s) of steeper LCC in PXG should be investigated in a forthcoming study.

Study Design: Retrospective radiographic study.Purpose: We hypothesized that the pedicle is almost perpendicular to the interlaminar line in the sagittal plane of the lumbar vertebrae. The current study aimed to define the lumbar lamina–pedicle inclination to verify the right-angle concept and to estimate the safety zones of sagittal inclination during pedicle screw insertion. To the best of our knowledge there are no previous similar studies.Overview of Literature: Based on our observations in different spinal disorders including deformities, we noted that following a sagittal (cranial–caudal) trajectory perpendicular to the interlaminar line joining the two adjacent vertebrae would work well in most of the vertebral levels.Methods: This was a retrospective study on normal lumbar spine lateral radiographs of patients who presented with low back pain and were reviewed by two observers. Different inclination angles were constructed to estimate the safety zones of the pedicle screws’ sagittal inclination.Results: Radiographs of 30 consecutive patients, 25 females and five males, with a mean age of 39.43±11.18 years, were studied. The mean angle of the interlaminar line and the pedicle axis was almost orthogonal at all the levels, with a range of 89.16°–94.63°, which was not affected by the lumbar sagittal profile. The safety zones of the pedicle screws were measured, and they revealed a safe sagittal range of 19.73°–24.40° if the screw was inserted from the pedicle axis, 21.03°–22.59° if inserted from the most cephalic part, and 13.31°–17.03° if inserted from the most caudal part.Conclusions: Our results confirmed the perpendicularity of the interlaminar line with the pedicle axis in the lumbar spine at all the levels. The interlaminar line is a useful guide for pedicle screw sagittal inclination.

Study Design: This is an observational study of computed tomography (CT) data.Purpose: The C1 and C2 laminas in the Malaysian Malay population were analyzed for the feasibility of fitting 3.5-mm laminar screws in a cross configuration.Overview of Literature: Morphometric analysis of the C1 and C2 laminas has been performed for various populations but not for the Malaysian Malay population.Methods: A total of 330 CT cervical images were measured to establish the bicortical diameter of the C1 and C2 laminas as well as their height and length. The C1 posterior tubercle bicortical diameter and height were also determined from these images. All parameters were measured up to 0.1 mm, and statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics ver. 24.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). An independent t -test and the Pearson chi-square test were used to determine the mean difference and screw acceptance.Results: The means of the C1 lamina measurements were 5.79±1.19 mm in diameter, 9.76±1.51 mm in height, and 20.70±1.86 mm in length. The means of the measurements of the posterior tubercle were 7.20±1.88 mm in diameter and 10.51±1.68 mm in height. The means of the C2 lamina measurements were 5.74±1.31 mm in diameter, 11.76±1.69 mm in height, and 24.96±2.56 mm in length. Overall 65.5% of C1 and 80.3% of C2 laminas are able to accept 3.5-mm screws in a cross configuration. Screw acceptability is similar between the right and left sides (p >0.05). However, males have a higher screw acceptability compared with females (p

A common morphological feature of typical angiosperms is the patterning of lateral organs along primary axes of asymmetry—a proximodistal, a mediolateral, and an adaxial–abaxial axis. Angiosperm leaves usually have distinct adaxial–abaxial identity, which is required for the development of a flat shape. By contrast, many unifacial leaves, consisting of only the abaxial side, show a flattened morphology. This implicates a unique mechanism that allows leaf flattening independent of adaxial–abaxial identity. In this study, we report a role for auxin in outgrowth of unifacial leaves. In two closely related unifacial-leaved species of Juncaceae, Juncus prismatocarpus with flattened leaves, and Juncus wallichianus with transversally radialized leaves, the auxin-responsive gene GLYCOSIDE HYDROLASE3 displayed spatially different expression patterns within leaf primordia. Treatment of J. prismatocarpus seedlings with exogenous auxin or auxin transport inhibitors, which disturb endogenous auxin distribution, eliminated leaf flatness, resulting in a transversally radialized morphology. These treatments did not affect the radialized morphology of leaves of J. wallichianus. Moreover, elimination of leaf flatness by these treatments accompanied dysregulated expression of genetic factors needed to specify the leaf central-marginal polarity in J. prismatocarpus. The findings imply that lamina outgrowth of unifacial leaves relies on proper placement of auxin, which might induce initial leaf flattening and subsequently act to specify leaf polarity, promoting further flattening growth of leaves.

PURPOSE To report the 3-year clinical outcomes of corneal stromal cell therapy consisting of the intrastromal implantation with autologous adipose-derived adult stem cells (ADASCs), and decellularized or ADASC-recellularized human donor corneal laminas in advanced keratoconus. METHODS Fourteen patients were enrolled in 3 experimental groups. Group 1 (G-1) patients underwent implantation of ADASCs alone (3 × 10⁶ cells/1 mL) (n = 5). Group 2 (G-2) patients received a 120-μm decellularized corneal stroma lamina (n = 5). Group 3 (G-3) patients received a 120-μm lamina recellularized with ADASCs (1 × 10⁶ cells/1 mL) (n = 4). ADASCs were obtained by elective liposuction. Implantation was performed into a femtosecond pocket under topical anesthesia. RESULTS At 3 years, a significant improvement of 1 to 2 logMAR lines in uncorrected distance visual acuity was observed in all groups. A statistically significant decrease in corrected distance visual acuity was obtained in G-2 and G-3 (P < 0.001) when compared with that of G-1. Rigid contact lens distance visual acuity showed a statistically significant worsening in G-2 (P < 0.001) compared with that of G-1. A statistically significant increase in central corneal thickness was observed in G-2 (P = 0.012) and G-3 (P < 0.001); in the Scheimpflug corneal topography, the thinnest point was observed in G-2 (P = 0.007) and G-3 (P = 0.001) when compared with that of G-1. CONCLUSIONS Intrastromal implantation of ADASCs and decellularized or ADASC-recellularized human corneal stroma laminas did not have complications at 3 years. The technique showed a moderate improvement in (uncorrected distance visual acuity) and (corrected distance visual acuity) in advanced keratoconus.

Background The morphometric analysis of the individual bones of the human skeleton can be used to estimate the sex of unidentified corpses. Our aims were as follows: to test whether thyroid cartilage can be used for forensic purposes as a predictor of biological sex; to establish the level of sexual dimorphism of the thyroid cartilage in a sample of adult subjects from a population of European Russia; and to test the accuracy of the morphometric parameters obtained from the thyroid cartilage. Results The thyroid cartilage from 100 adults of known age (50 males and 50 females) was obtained during forensic examination; morphometric tests were conducted using Vernier Digital ROKTOOLS ABS DIN 862 0-200/6 inch with measurement accuracy ± 0.01 mm. The measured parameters were N = 31 for each subject. Intra- and inter-observer reproducibility was tested. Multivariate statistical analysis was applied to the measurements. To check the data set for normal distribution, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used. Finally, to estimate the sex of the observed individuals, a stepwise discriminant analysis was conducted, using the Wilks’ lambda selection method. The most significant parameters were the outer distance between bases of inferior horn; the inner distance between distal ends of inferior horns; distance between distal ends of left superior and inferior horns; left superior horn length (distance between left superior horn distal end and base); distance between superior and inferior notches; thyroid angle; left lamina height (vertical line along left lamina middle); horizontal distance between anterior intermedium line and the right lamina posterior edge; distance between inferior thyroid notch and line connecting left and right thyroid laminae; and left superior horn thickness at mid-line. The stepwise discriminant analysis resulted in an equation with ten parameters. Conclusions The results of the current study indicated that in the European Russian population, the equation obtained in the stepwise discriminant analysis makes it possible to predict sex with a probability of 100% on the validation set. On the test set, the resultant accuracy was 100% for females and 100% for males. Our findings confirm the scientific evidence that the thyroid cartilage has a pronounced sexual dimorphism.

Boonsong Wanichwecharungruang,1,2 Aungnapa Kongthaworn,1,3 Doreen Wagner,4 Paisan Ruamviboonsuk,1 Kasem Seresirikachorn1 1Department of Ophthalmology, Rajavithi Hospital, Rangsit Medical College, Bangkok, Thailand; 2Department of Ophthalmology, Priest Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand; 3Department of Ophthalmology, Nakorn-Nayok Hospital, Nakorn-nayok, Thailand; 4Senior Clinical Project Manager, Wuppertal, GermanyCorrespondence: Boonsong WanichwecharungruangRajavithi Hospital, 2, Rajavithi Road, Bangkok, 10400, ThailandTel +66 813135040Email boonsongw@yahoo.comPurpose: To compare lamina cribrosa thickness (LCT) of primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) using the enhanced depth-imaging mode of the Heidelberg Spectralis spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT).Patients and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted. We enrolled 34 patients with PACG, 38 with POAG, and 62 controls, testing only one eye of each participant. Lamina cribrosa thickness was determined at the center of the optic nerve head using EDI-OCT. Nine points of LCT were measured, and LCT averages were analyzed.Results: Mean age, number of glaucoma medications, current intraocular pressure (IOP), cup to disc ratio, and visual field indices, were not significantly different between PACG and POAG eyes. The maximum IOP (SD) was higher in PACG than in POAG, at 32.5 (10.46) vs 25.05 (6.42) mmHg (p = 0.001), and LCTs were significantly different among the PACG, POAG and control groups. Mean (SD) LCTs were 226.99 (31.08), 257.17 (19.46), and 290.75 (28.02) μm, respectively (p < 0.001). Lamina cribrosa thickness was correlated with mean deviation of the visual field (p = 0.001; correlation coefficient, rs = 0.347), while it was inversely correlated with maximum IOP (p < 0.001; correlation coefficient, rs = − 0.592). Linear regression analysis revealed that LCT was inversely related to age (p = 0.008), female (p = 0.018), and maximum IOP (p = 0.002). LCT was marginally related to visual field MD (p = 0.053).Conclusion: Glaucomatous eyes had thinner LCT than controls, and maximum IOP was inversely correlated to the LCT. PACG eyes had higher maximum IOP and thinner LCT than POAG ones. In living eye, EDI-OCT emphasizes the pressure-dependent mechanism of glaucoma on lamina cribrosa deformation and the higher IOP-loaded stress which leads to a greater lamina cribrosa strain.Keywords: lamina cribrosa thickness, primary angle-closure glaucoma, optical coherence tomography, Asian, intraocular pressure

SIGNIFICANCE Enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography is a useful method to allow for the evaluation of deep ocular structures, such as choroid and lamina cribrosa (LC), which are affected by ocular diseases. We hypothesized that choroidal and optic nerve inflammation in patients with ocular sarcoidosis (OS) might affect the LC structure. PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate changes in the LC and anterior LC depth (ALCD) in patients with OS. METHODS Forty-eight eyes of 26 patients with OS who received the treatment of panuveitis and were in the quiescent phase for at least 6 months were included in the study. Thirty healthy subjects' randomly selected eyes were selected as a control group. Eyes with OS were divided into two subgroups according to the presence (OS eyes with glaucoma [OSWG], n = 23) or absence of glaucoma (OS eyes without glaucoma [OSWOG], n = 25). The LC thickness, ALCD, and peripapillary choroidal thickness were measured using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography in eyes with OS and in controls. RESULTS The mean LC thickness was found significantly thinner in both OSWG and OSWOG eyes compared with the healthy controls (P < .001 and P = .001, respectively). The mean ALCD was found significantly higher in OSWG eyes (462 ± 65 μm) compared with OSWOG eyes (417 ± 58 μm) and the healthy control eyes (397 ± 59 μm; P = .03 and P = .001, respectively). The average peripapillary choroidal thickness was found to be significantly thinner in OSWG eyes compared with the control eyes (P = .05). CONCLUSIONS The present study revealed that OS is associated with a thinned LC independent of the presence of glaucoma. The degenerative changes in the LC, which is the transition point of the retinal nerve fibers, may cause long-term visual dysfunction in OS. These degenerative changes should be prevented by controlling inflammation with early diagnosis and treatment in patients with OS.

To investigate nasal displacement of central retinal vessel (CRV) on the optic nerve head (ONH) in glaucoma in association with its passage through lamina cribrosa (LC). This cross-sectional study included 113 eyes with glaucoma and 60 normal eyes. Horizontal spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) scans of the ONH were acquired, and point where CRV emerged on the ONH surface was defined as the position of the CRV. Next, radial scans of the ONH were acquired, and angle of the CRV passing through the LC was measured. These parameters were compared between glaucomatous and normal eyes by t-test, and their relationship with possible confounders was assessed by multiple regression analyses. In glaucoma, CRV was significantly more nasally displaced than it was in normal eyes (66.0 ± 8.6 vs. 54.3 ± 9.5, P P = 0.0004). Greater nasal displacement of the CRV was significantly associated with a more nasally angled path through the LC (rs = 0.569, P

OBJECTIVEComplications after adult spinal deformity surgery are common, with implant-related complications occurring in up to 27.8% of cases. Sublaminar wire fixation strength is less affected by decreasing trabecular bone density in comparison to pedicle screw (PS) fixation due to the predominant cortical bone composition of the lamina. Sublaminar fixation may thus aid in decreasing implant-related complications. The goal of this study was to compare fixation characteristics of titanium sublaminar cables (SCs), ultra–high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) tape, PSs, and PSs augmented with UHMWPE tape in an ex vivo flexion–bending setup.METHODSThirty-six human cadaver vertebrae were stratified into 4 different fixation groups: UHMWPE sublaminar tape (ST), PS, metal SC, and PS augmented with ST (PS + ST). Individual vertebrae were embedded in resin, and a flexion–bending moment was applied that closely resembles the in vivo loading pattern at transitional levels of spinal instrumentation.RESULTSThe failure strength of PS + ST (4522 ± 2314 N) was significantly higher compared to the SC (2931 ± 751 N) and PS (2678 ± 827 N) groups, which had p values of 0.028 and 0.015, respectively (all values expressed as the mean ± SD). Construct stiffness was significantly higher for the PS groups compared to the stand-alone sublaminar wiring groups (p = 0.020). In contrast to SC, ST did not show any case of cortical breach.CONCLUSIONSThe higher failure strength of PS + ST compared to PS indicates that PS augmentation with ST may be an effective measure to reduce the incidence of screw pullout, even in osteoporotic vertebrae. Moreover, the lower stiffness of sublaminar fixation techniques and the absence of damage to the cortices in the ST group suggest that ST as a stand-alone fixation technique in adult spinal deformity surgery may also be clinically feasible and offer clinical benefits.

The effect of knot clusters on the bending properties of Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) cross-laminated timber (CLT) was analyzed to increase the utilization of low-quality lumber. The laminae used to manufacture the CLT were classified into five groups, four major layer groups, and one minor layer group, by mechanical grade and knot area ratio (KAR) of the lamina. Out-of-plane bending tests were conducted on CLT made from each layer group. The modulus of elasticity (MOE) of the manufactured CLT was closely correlated with the MOE of each individual major axis lamina. In the case of the modulus of rupture (MOR) of the CLT, the KAR of the laminae used in the major axis layer was more significantly affected than the MOE. The main finding is that the lower fifth percentile MOR value of the CLT specimens with large knots (KAR > 0.5) was higher than the acceptable reference value of E3 grade CLT (ANSI/APA PRG 320) made from a similar lamina grade. Therefore, the use of low-quality lumber to manufacture CLT can be expanded under the condition of limitation of the greater KAR.

In recent years, the use of cross laminated timber (CLT) has been evolving. In addition, CLT manufactured with various species such as Japanese cedar has been developed to utilize the local resources in each country. However most factories in Japan produce CLT by bonding the laminae in width direction for orthogonal layers, where grain of element is perpendicular to the grain of outer layer, and this process is considered to be one of the factors that reduce productivity. A new wood based material (hereinafter referred to as Ply-lam) using wooden panel such as plywood for the orthogonal layer was developed in order to improve productivity in CLT manufacturing and improve quality. Japanese cypress lamina was used for the parallel layer, where grain of element is parallel to the grain of outer layer, of CLT and Korean larch plywood was used for the orthogonal layer, in order to effectively use Korean larch and expand the utilization of Japanese cypress. The cross-sectional construction of the Ply-lam was 5-layers 5-plies, and the dimensions were 1000 mm (width) × 150 mm (depth) × 4000 mm (length). As a performance evaluation of the manufactured Ply-lam, strength tests such as out-of-plane bending, in-plane bending, out-of-plane shearing and in-plane shearing tests were carried out. As the result of this study, Ply-lam composed of Japanese cypress lamina panels and Korean larch plywood showed very higher out-of-plane bending strength compared to the standard strength of CLT. And the result obtained in other tests seems to show a sufficiently high value.

The variety of neural networks of the central nervous system is determined by the heterogeneity of the neuron populations. Calcium-binding proteins can be used as markers of neurons of different morphotypes. One of the most common calcium-binding proteins in nervous system is calretinin. In the present work, using an indirect immunohistochemical method, calretinin-immunopositive neuronal populations of the lumbar segments of the cat spinal cord were marked. In the study we identified 19 morphotypes of neurons with strict segmental and laminar localization; an attempt was made to compare the proposed function of the neuron type with the available literature data. Among the identified morphotypes, three are localized in lamina I and correspond to neurons involved in the transmission of painful and temperature information. In lamina II, cells of the one morphotype were found, on which pain afferents converge. Three types of project neurons transmitting information from peripheral mechano- and nociceptors to supraspinal structures are presented in laminae III-IV. Laminae V-VI are characterized by functionally different neurons of five morphotypes: interneurons of the Clarke’s nuclei and a similar zone of the caudal lumbar segments, to which proprioceptive information converges; neurons on the lateral border between the white and gray matter, responding to painful and tactile signals; and two types of randomly distributed interneurons, projection or propriospinal neurons that receive heterogeneous afferent signals from muscle spindles. In laminae VII-VIII, two types of sympathetic preganglionic neurons (in the intermediolateral and intercalated nuclei), Renshaw's interneurons, and three types of differently sized multipolar cells were identified, the function of which is difficult to determine. No immunopositive neurons were found in lamina IX, represented by motoneuron pools. Around the central canal in lamina X, rare neurons are localized, the function for which, due to the small number of their morphological features, is not defined.

Background Laminectomy is a traditional method for treating lumbar diseases; however, the destruction of the posterior structures may cause postoperative symptoms. An individualized poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) artificial lamina was designed to reconstruct the posterior structures after laminectomy. This study aimed to explore the biomechanical effects of reconstruction of the posterior structures with an individualized PEEK artificial lamina using validated finite element models. Objective To examine the biomechanical effects of individualized PEEK artificial lamina on postlaminectomy lumbar. Methods A finite element (FE) model of L3-5 was developed based on computed tomography images. Four surgical models (laminectomy, artificial lamina alone, ligament reconstruction, and osseointegration) were constructed, representing different stages of L4 artificial lamina implantation. The range of motion (ROM), intradiscal pressure (IDP), stresses in the annulus fibrosus at the surgical level and cephalad adjacent level, and stresses in the artificial lamina and screws were measured. Results The ROM, IDP, and stresses in the annulus fibrosus of the different artificial lamina models decreased compared to those of the laminectomy model at both surgical and adjacent levels for all motion patterns, most notably in the osseointegration model. In addition, the results of the stresses in the implants showed that the artificial lamina could enhance the lumbar isthmus and disperse the abnormally concentrated stresses after laminectomy. Conclusion The application of a PEEK artificial lamina has the potential to stabilize the postlaminectomy lumbar spine and prevent adjacent segment disease (ASD) and iatrogenic lumbar deformities, resulting in a reduction in the incidence of post-lumbar surgery syndrome.

Background To describe the feasibility of the posterior arch of C2 accepting two crossing screws in the Spanish population. Methods One hundred and fifty patients who underwent a routine neck CT scan for non-cervical pathology were enrolled. Submillimeter slices (thickness 0.7 mm) every 0.4 mm were performed with a 64 multi-detector CT scan, which allows isometric measurements. We measured the length and height of the cortical and cancellous (endomedullar) region of the lamina and the spinous process, inclination, maximal screw length and spinolaminar angle. Results The average (standard deviation) measurements of the lamina were: width of the left cortical 7.2 (1.5) mm, right cortical 6.9 (1.3) mm, width of the cancellous part of the left lamina 4.8 (1.5) mm, right side 4.6 (1.4) mm. The mean left cortical height was 13.0 (1.5) mm and 13.1 (1.6) mm for the right. The mean height of the cancellous part was 9.0 mm for both sides. The average measurements of the spinous process were: cortical length 15.7 (3.5) mm, endomedullar length 12.5 (3.9) mm; cortical height 11.9 (2.2) mm, endomedullar height 8.4 (2.1) mm; spinolaminar angle 49º (4); the maximum screw length 3.18 cm, and the inclination angle 143º. Conclusion A CT scan with submillimeter slices is necessary in order to avoid malpositioning of the screws. The outer cortical measurements are 2 to 4 mm bigger than the endomedullar ones. Taking into account the dimensions of the spinous process, 24% of the population would not be candidates for this crossing screw technique.

Purpose: To evaluate the relationship between corneal biomechanical parameters and lamina cribrosa (LC) curvature in normal tension glaucoma (NTG). Methods: 95 eyes of 56 NTG patients were enrolled in this prospective, observational study. Corneal biomechanical parameters, including stiffness parameters at applanation 1 (SP-A1), deformation amplitude ratio (DA ratio), inverse concave radius and biomechanically corrected intraocular pressure estimate (bIOP), were captured using the Corneal Visualization Scheimpflug Technology instrument (Corvis-ST). LC curvature was evaluated by mean adjusted LC curvature index (maLCCI) averaged by the measurements on 12 radial B-scan images obtained using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT). Linear mixed models were constructed to assess the relationship between corneal biomechanical parameters and LC curvature. Results: The mean age of participants was 51.04 ± 13.74 years (range, 24–82 years). The SP-A1 and maLCCI were 93.50 ± 13.82 mm Hg/mm and 7.57 ± 1.58, respectively. In univariate and multivariate analysis, SP-A1 ( p Conclusions: The greater posterior LC curvature was associated with lower corneal stiffness parameters and younger eyes in NTG patients. Clinical Trial Registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1900021465.

The Chang 73 sub-member of Triassic Yanchang Formation in the Ordos Basin was taken as an example and the lamina types and combinations, reservoir space features and shale oil enrichment patterns in organic-rich shale strata were investigated using core observation, thin section analysis, XRF element measurement, XRD analysis, SEM, high solution laser Raman spectroscopy analysis, and micro-FTIR spectroscopy analysis, etc. According to the mineral composition and thickness of the laminae, the Chang 73 organic-rich shales have four major types of laminae, tuff-rich lamina, organic-rich lamina, silt-grade feldspar-quartz lamina and clay lamina. They have two kinds of shale oil-bearing layers, “organic-rich lamina + silt-grade feldspar-quartz lamina” and “organic-rich lamina + tuff-rich lamina” layers. In the “organic-rich + silt-grade feldspar-quartz” laminae combination shale strata, oil was characterized by relative high maturation, and always filled in K-feldspar dissolution pores in the silt-grade feldspar-quartz laminae, forming oil generation, migration and accumulation process between laminae inside the organic shales. In the “organic-rich + tuff-rich lamina” binary laminae combination shale strata, however, the reservoir properties were poor in organic-rich shales, the oil maturation was relatively lower, and mainly accumulated in the intergranular pores of interbedded thin-layered sandstones. The oil generation, migration and accumulation mainly occurred between organic-rich shales and interbedded thin-layered sandstones.

The functional organization of the plant nuclear envelope is gaining increasing attention through new connections made between nuclear envelope-associated proteins and important plant biological processes. Animal nuclear envelope proteins play roles in nuclear morphology, nuclear anchoring and movement, chromatin tethering and mechanical signaling. However, how these roles translate to functionality in a broader biological context is often not well understood. A surprising number of plant nuclear envelope-associated proteins are plant-unique, suggesting that separate functionalities evolved after the split of Opisthokonta and Streptophyta. Significant progress has now been made in discovering broader biological roles of plant nuclear envelope proteins, increasing the number of known plant nuclear envelope proteins, and connecting known proteins to chromatin organization, gene expression, and the regulation of nuclear calcium. The interaction of viruses with the plant nuclear envelope is another emerging theme. Here, we survey the recent developments in this still relatively new, yet rapidly advancing field.

The environmental status of the Eastern Ural radioactive trace (EURT) zone has been assessed by bioindication methods. A long-term (2005–2013) study of Potentilla fruticosa plants planted on three sites within the gradient of radionuclide contamination with 90Sr and 137Cs showed that, regardless of the vegetation period and year of observation, an increase in the level of radiation caused a reduction in the lamina and petiole length and an increase in the fluctuating asymmetry index of the terminal leaf lobe. The morphological indices (length, width, and area of the lamina and terminal leaf lobe; petiole length) were determined by digital image analysis using the Maplnfo software. Statistically significant differences in these indices from the control were observed only in the plants from the most contaminated area. As the radiation load increased, the interannual variability of the petiole length increased from low to high values regardless of the vegetation period. In the case of fluctuating asymmetry of the terminal leaf lobe, a significant difference was revealed between the control plants and plants exposed to radiation. Using the fluctuating asymmetry index, the environmental quality of areas located within the EURT territory was assessed as critical, while that of the control site corresponded to the norm.

An effective simulation of the eyeball containing microstructures which are optic nerves and lamina cribrosa, through homogenization method, was studied. Entire domain of the eyeball is divided into a fine-scale zone and a coarse-scale zone to reduce the number of degrees of freedom accompanied by modeling the microstructures. In the coarse-scale zone, homogenized material properties of the lamina cribrosa combined with the optic nerves are employed to compute overall behavior, while the optic nerves are directly modeled to obtain their local behavior in the fine-scale zone. Numerical tests with models having different size of the fine-scale zone showed that this homogenization scheme did not severely deteriorate solution accuracy and makes it possible to reflect the microstructures with reduced computational cost. Then, this multiscale method was employed to confirm a clinical result that a greater susceptibility to development of glaucoma corresponds to a larger curvature of the lamina cribrosa.

Ultrasound spine imaging technique has been applied to the assessment of spine deformity. However, manual measurements of scoliotic angles on ultrasound images are time-consuming and heavily rely on raters experience. The objectives of this study are to construct a fully automatic framework based on Faster R-CNN for detecting vertebral lamina and to measure the fitting spinal curves from the detected lamina pairs. The framework consisted of two closely linked modules: 1) the lamina detector for identifying and locating each lamina pairs on ultrasound coronal images, and 2) the spinal curvature estimator for calculating the scoliotic angles based on the chain of detected lamina. Two hundred ultrasound images obtained from AIS patients were identified and used for the training and evaluation of the proposed method. The experimental results showed the 0.76 AP on the test set, and the Mean Absolute Difference (MAD) between automatic and manual measurement which was within the clinical acceptance error. Meanwhile the correlation between automatic measurement and Cobb angle from radiographs was 0.79. The results revealed that our proposed technique could provide accurate and reliable automatic curvature measurements on ultrasound spine images for spine deformities., Accepted by IUS2021