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Biodiesel is widely known as a renewable energy that can be directly used as an alternative diesel fuel. This paper emphasizes on the synthesis and characterization of lithium modified calcium oxide (CaO) derived from eggshell and cow bone waste materials. The synthesized catalysts were tested in term of their performance in biodiesel production from dairy waste scum oil (DWSO). The CaO was derived from eggshell and cow bone by calcination at 800 °C and then a mixture of CaO from eggshell and cowbone was combined with lithium via wet impregnation which resulted to four catalysts labeled as eggshell (ES), cow bone (CB), eggshell and cow bone (ESCB) and Lithium modified eggshell and cowbone (Li-ESCB). All catalysts were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), Field Emission Scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) to interpret their morphologic, structural and chemical properties. The Li-ESCB showed better properties than ESCB, especially in BET analysis, where the surface area was 2.59 m2/g. Only in XRD analysis can it show the presence of lithium as it is very low in concentration (1 wt %), whereas EDX analysis cannot be detected. The biodiesel production were performed via microwave assisted transesterification and ES catalyst showed the highest biodiesel production (82%). Even though Li-ESCB appeared as the best properties, the biodiesel was still low due to the inhibition of phosphorus from CB. The utilization of waste materials can contribute to sustainability development, environmentally friendly and cost-effective method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Southern Energy Construction is the property of Southern Energy Construction Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

As the prime candidate for plasma-facing materials (PFM), the response of tungsten (W) to thermal shock loads is an important research topic for future fusion devices. Under heat loads, the surface of tungsten plasma-facing materials (W-PFM) can experience thermal damage, including brittle cracking and fatigue cracks. Therefore, exploring solutions for thermal damage of W-PFM remains one of the current research focuses. We propose a novel approach to mitigate thermal radiation damage in PFM, namely, the stacked structure W-PFM. The surface thermal stress distribution of the stacked structure W-PFM under heat loads was simulated and analyzed by the finite element method. As the foil thickness decreases, both the peak thermal stresses in the normal direction (ND) and rolling direction (RD) decrease. When the thickness decreases to a certain value, the peak thermal stress in the RD decreases to about 1384 MPa and no longer decreases; while the peak thermal stress in the ND approaches 0 MPa and can be neglected. In the range of approximately 5–100 mm, the accumulated equivalent plastic strain decreases sharply as the thickness decreases; in other thickness ranges, it decreases slowly. Thermal fatigue experiments were conducted on the stacked structure W composed of W foils with different thicknesses and bulk W using an electron beam facility. The samples were applied with a power density of 30 MW/m2 for 10,000 and 20,000 pulses. The cracks on the surface of the stacked structure W extended along the ND direction, while on the surface of bulk W, besides the main crack in the ND direction, a crack network also formed. The experimental results were consistent with finite element simulations. When the pulse number was 10,000, as the thickness of the W foil decreased, the number and width of the cracks on the surface of the stacked structure W decreased. Only four small cracks were present on the surface of stacked structure W (0.05 mm). When the pulse number increased to 20,000, the plastic deformation and number of cracks on the surface of all samples increased. However, the stacked structure W (0.05 mm) only added one small crack and had the smallest surface roughness (Ra = 1.536 μm). Quantitative analysis of the fatigue cracks showed that the stacked structure W-PFM (0.05 mm) exhibited superior thermal fatigue performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the most predominant cancer disease is Breast Cancer that has a higher death rate and women gender is the most affected by this disease. But detecting Breast Cancer in early stage is challenging as the malignance growth at this stage occurs in the duct that are undetected as symptoms are less. This paper addresses the challenge of early detection of Breast Cancer cells by proposing the fusion scheme of morphological and texture features of the cells for analysis. Morphological features such as the shape and marginal characteristics of the mass are considered as per the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) standard. Texture features of the mass were also extracted to understand the characteristics of pixel variation in the masses. These features are combined and its dimension is normalized using Exhaustive Feature Selection (EFS). The accuracy of the proposed feature on the INbreast dataset is 94.75% on an average. The accuracy for the Curated Breast Imaging Subset of Digital Database for Screening Mammography (CBIS-DDSM) Calc RoI dataset is 95% and for CBIS-DDSM Mass RoI dataset it is 94.5%. The result is further compared with contemporary methods and found that the fused feature is performing well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Integrating quantitative trait loci (QTL) data related to molecular phenotypes with genome-wide association study (GWAS) data is an important post-GWAS strategic approach employed to identify disease-associated molecular features. Various types of molecular phenotypes have been investigated in neuropsychiatric disorders. However, these findings pertaining to distinct molecular features are often independent of each other, posing challenges for having an overview of the mapped genes. Methods: In this study, we comprehensively summarized published analyses focusing on four types of risk-related molecular features (gene expression, splicing transcriptome, protein abundance, and DNA methylation) across five common neuropsychiatric disorders. Subsequently, we conducted supplementary analyses with the latest GWAS dataset and corresponding deficient molecular phenotypes using Functional Summary-based Imputation (FUSION) and summary data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR). Based on the curated and supplemented results, novel reliable genes and their functions were explored. Results: Our findings revealed that eQTL exhibited superior ability in prioritizing risk genes compared to the other QTL, followed by sQTL. Approximately half of the genes associated with splicing transcriptome, protein abundance, and DNA methylation were successfully replicated by eQTL-associated genes across all five disorders. Furthermore, we identified 436 novel reliable genes, which enriched in pathways related with neurotransmitter transportation such as synaptic, dendrite, vesicles, axon along with correlations with other neuropsychiatric disorders. Finally, we identified ten multiple molecular involved regulation patterns (MMRP), which may provide valuable insights into understanding the contribution of molecular regulation network targeting these disease-associated genes. Conclusions: The analyses prioritized novel and reliable gene sets related with five molecular features based on published and supplementary results for five common neuropsychiatric disorders, which were missed in the original GWAS analysis. Besides, the involved MMRP behind these genes could be given priority for further investigation to elucidate the pathogenic molecular mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric disorders in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arenaviruses belonging to the Arenaviridae family, genus mammarenavirus, are enveloped, single-stranded RNA viruses primarily found in rodent species, that cause severe hemorrhagic fever in humans. With high mortality rates and limited treatment options, the search for effective antivirals is imperative. Current treatments, notably ribavirin and other nucleoside inhibitors, are only partially effective and have significant side effects. The high lethality and lack of treatment, coupled with the absence of vaccines for all but Junín virus, has led to the classification of these viruses as Category A pathogens by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). This review focuses on entry inhibitors as potential therapeutics against mammarenaviruses, which include both New World and Old World arenaviruses. Various entry inhibition strategies, including small molecule inhibitors and neutralizing antibodies, have been explored through high throughput screening, genome-wide studies, and drug repurposing. Notable progress has been made in identifying molecules that target receptor binding, internalization, or fusion steps. Despite promising preclinical results, the translation of entry inhibitors to approved human therapeutics has faced challenges. Many have only been tested in in vitro or animal models, and a number of candidates showed efficacy only against specific arenaviruses, limiting their broader applicability. The widespread existence of arenaviruses in various rodent species and their potential for their zoonotic transmission also underscores the need for rapid development and deployment of successful pan-arenavirus therapeutics. The diverse pool of candidate molecules in the pipeline provides hope for the eventual discovery of a broadly effective arenavirus antiviral. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diversity of natural images in terms of visual features is useful in saliency detection. The complementary visual features jointly improve the performance of salient object detection. In this paper, we introduce a novel region-based feature combination approach that utilizes the diversity of visual features over image regions for robust salient object detection. The proposed approach works in four steps: (i) region formation, (ii) feature extraction, (iii) region-wise weight learning and (iv) region-based feature combination. Region formation is carried out using simple linear iterative clustering (SLIC) algorithm. Then, the features are extracted using Boundary Connectivity (BC), Contrast Cluster (CC), and Minimum Directional Contrast (MDC) methods. These features are then used for learning weights vectors for each region. Our major contribution is in step four where a novel dynamic weighted feature combination method is proposed. In this step region-wise integration weights are obtained by using a nature inspirited optimization algorithm called Constrained Particle swarm optimization (CPSO). Then salient features are region-wise combined with their dynamic relevance for final saliency map. The proposed method is compared with eight state-of-the-art saliency detection methods on five public available saliency benchmark datasets namely MSRA10K, DUT-OMRON, ECSSD, PASCAL, and SED2. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method performs better than state-of-the-art methods in terms of Precision, Recall, F-measure and Mean Absolute Error while comparable in terms of AUC and ROC curve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to cellular metabolic and signaling cues, the mitochondrial network employs distinct sets of membrane-shaping factors to dynamically modulate organellar structures through a balance of fission and fusion. While these organellar dynamics mediate mitochondrial structure/function homeostasis, they also directly impact critical cell-wide signaling pathways such as apoptosis, autophagy, and the integrated stress response (ISR). Mitochondrial fission is driven by the recruitment of the cytosolic dynamin-related protein-1 (DRP1), while fusion is carried out by mitofusins 1 and 2 (in the outer membrane) and optic atrophy-1 (OPA1) in the inner membrane. This dynamic balance is highly sensitive to cellular stress; when the transmembrane potential across the inner membrane (Δψm) is lost, fusion-active OPA1 is cleaved by the overlapping activity with m-AAA protease-1 (OMA1 metalloprotease, disrupting mitochondrial fusion and leaving dynamin-related protein-1 (DRP1)-mediated fission unopposed, thus causing the collapse of the mitochondrial network to a fragmented state. OMA1 is a unique regulator of stress-sensitive homeostatic mitochondrial balance, acting as a key upstream sensor capable of priming the cell for apoptosis, autophagy, or ISR signaling cascades. Recent evidence indicates that higher-order macromolecular associations within the mitochondrial inner membrane allow these specialized domains to mediate crucial organellar functionalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design. Observational cohort study. Objective. To describe the postoperative costs associated with both anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) in the two-year period following surgery. Summary of Background Data. CDA has become an increasingly common alternative to ACDF for the treatment of cervical disc disorders. Although a number of studies have compared clinical outcomes between both procedures, much less is known about the postoperative economic burden of each procedure. Materials and Methods. By analyzing a commercial insurance claims database (Marketscan, Merative), patients who underwent one-level or two-level ACDF and CDA procedures between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2017 were identified and included in the study. The primary outcome was the cost of payments for postoperative management in the two-year period following ACDF or CDA. Identified postoperative interventions included in the study were: (i) physical therapy, (ii) pain medication, (iii) injections, (iv) psychological treatment, and (iv) subsequent spine surgeries. Results. Totally, 2304 patients (age: 49.0 ±9.4 yr; male, 50.1%) were included in the study. In all, 1723 (74.8%) patients underwent ACDF, while 581 (25.2%) underwent CDA. The cost of surgery was similar between both groups (ACDF: $26,819± 23,449; CDA: $25,954±20,620; P= 0.429). Thirty-day, 90-day, and two-year global costs were all lower for patients who underwent CDA compared with ACDF ($31,024 vs. $34,411, $33,064 vs. $37,517, and $55,723 vs. $68,113, respectively). Conclusion. Lower two-year health care costs were found for patients undergoing CDA compared with ACDF. Further work is necessary to determine the drivers of these findings and the associated longer-term outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The three-dimensional variation inherent to stellarator geometries and fusion sources motivates three-dimensional modeling to obtain accurate results from computational modeling in support of design and analysis of first wall, blanket, and shield (FWBS) systems. Manually constructing stellarator fusion power plant geometries in computer-aided design (CAD) and defining the corresponding fusion source can be cumbersome and challenging. The open-source parametric modeling toolset ParaStell has been developed to automate construction of such geometries in low-fidelity. Low-fidelity modeling is useful during the conceptual phase of engineering design as a means of rapidly exploring the design space of a given device. The modeling capability of ParaStell includes in-vessel components and magnets, for any given stellarator configuration, using a parametric definition and plasma equilibrium data. Furthermore, the toolset automates the generation of detailed, tetrahedral neutron source definitions and DAGMC geometries for use in neutronics modeling. ParaStell assists rapid design iteration, parametric study, and design optimization of stellarator fusion cores. As a demonstration of the design iteration capability, the effect of the three-dimensional parameter space on tritium breeding and magnet shielding is investigated, using the WISTELL-D configuration as a design basis. Blanket and shield thicknesses are varied in three dimensions, using the space available between the plasma edge and magnet coils as a constraint. The corresponding effects on tritium breeding ratio and magnet heating are tallied using the open-source Monte Carlo particle transport code OpenMC. The inclusion of additional and higher-fidelity modeling capabilities is planned for ParaStell's future, as well as its implementation in machine-driven optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The clinical and radiographic degenerative spondylolisthesis (CARDS) classification is a new classification that has been introduced for degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS). It has four categories. Our study aimed to analyse the functional and radiographic outcome following DS surgery based on the preoperative CARDS classification. Methods: A retrospective study of the prospectively collected Australian Spine Registry database was performed. Data on demographics, patient reported outcome measures including the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and EQ-5D-3 L scores, and changes in radiographic measurements were analysed. Based on the preoperative findings all x-rays were classified applying the CARDS classification. Results: Between 2018 and 2021 a total of 54-patients were identified as having had surgery for DS at L4/5. The mean age was 65.3 ± 11.3years and females were predominantly affected (61%). Most cases were of CARDS type C (46%), followed by type B (29%). CARDS type A and D were observed in 18% and 6% respectively. Preoperatively, the L4/5 lordosis was 19.8 ± 6.3° and lumbar lordosis 43.9 ± 12.8°. Postoperatively the L4/5 lordosis alignment changed significantly to 23.5 ± 8.8° (p < 0.05). Preoperatively, the CARDS classification was 34.8 ± 17.4 (type A), 40.5 ± 11.0 (type B), 43.8 ± 12.9 and 50.0 ± 14.4 for type D (Pearson-coefficient 0.284, p = 0.041). Postoperatively this changed to 22.7 ± 16.1, 28.7 ± 21.2, 12.5 ± 13.1, and 6.5 ± 2.1 respectively. Similar improvements were observed for the EQ-5D-3 L. Conclusion: This study shows that the CARDS classification correlates with preoperative functional scores as well as helping to predict response to surgery. CARDS will likely assist in operative planning and prognostication. Level of evidence: III, therapeutic and prognostic study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experimental research aimed to formulate a cake made from the mixture of squash and pineapple. It utilized a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three (3) treatments and evaluated as to its sensory qualities and acceptability in terms of appearance, aroma, taste and texture by 40 evaluators composed of experts and consumers. Score cards with Nine (9) Point Hedonic Scale was used to evaluate the product. The mean and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to analyze the data with alpha set at 0.01 level of significance. Findings on the evaluation of sensory qualities and acceptability of the three (3) treatments showed that Treatment C with the proportion of 100grams combination of squash and pineapple showed the most preferred among the treatments with verbal interpretation of "Liked Extremely" in terms of appearance, aroma, taste and texture based on the evaluation of experts and consumers. The finding led to the conclusion that the squash-pineapple cake was acceptable in terms of its appearance, aroma, taste and texture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Gene rearrangements frequently act as oncogenic driver mutations and determine the onset and progression of cancer. RNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) is being used with increasing frequency for solid tumors. The purpose of our study is to investigate the feasibility and utility of an RNA-based NGS fusion panel for solid tumors. Methods We conducted a retrospective, single-institution review of fusion panels requested between May 2022 and March 2023. Demographic, clinical, pathologic, and molecular findings of the patients were reviewed. The utility of the RNA-based NGS fusion panel for the pathologic diagnosis of solid tumors was assessed. Results Our study included 345 cases, and a fusion event was identified in 24.3% (78/321) of cases. Among the 110 cases submitted for diagnostic purposes, a fusion event was detected in 42.7% (47/110) of cases. The results led to refinement or clarification of the initial diagnosis in 31.9% (15/47) of cases and agreement or support for the initial diagnosis in 59.6% (28/47) of cases. Furthermore, our study indicated that the overall cellularity (tumor and normal tissue) of the tested specimen influences the success of the testing process. Conclusions In summary, this study demonstrated the feasibility and utility of an RNA-based NGS fusion panel for a wide variety of solid tumors in the appropriate clinicopathologic context. These findings warrant further validation in larger studies involving multiple institutional patient cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study explored a potentially significant player in the spread of metastatic cancer: "hybrid cells" (HCs) combining features of both epithelial (common in tissues) and immune cells (such as macrophages). HCs were found in more than one type of tumor (THC) and showed a unique transcriptional profile including the activation of functional pathways, potentially explaining their mobility, dissemination into circulation, and metastatic progression. Normal healthy tissue also showed hybrid cells (NHC), but they were rare and could be easily distinguished from THCs based on their gene expression profile. The study also developed a way to identify HCs in large datasets generated at the single-cell level, paving the way for further research on their function and as potential therapeutic targets. Metastatic cancer is a leading cause of death in cancer patients worldwide. While circulating hybrid cells (CHCs) are implicated in metastatic spread, studies documenting their tissue origin remain sparse, with limited candidate approaches using one–two markers. Utilizing high-throughput single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, we identified tumor hybrid cells (THCs) co-expressing epithelial and macrophage markers and expressing a distinct transcriptome. Rarely, normal tissue showed these cells (NHCs), but their transcriptome was easily distinguishable from THCs. THCs with unique transcriptomes were observed in breast and colon cancers, suggesting this to be a generalizable phenomenon across cancer types. This study establishes a framework for HC identification in large datasets, providing compelling evidence for their tissue residence and offering comprehensive transcriptomic characterization. Furthermore, it sheds light on their differential function and identifies pathways that could explain their newly acquired invasive capabilities. THCs should be considered as potential therapeutic targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective of this meta-analysis was to determine the incidence of disc degeneration in patients with surgically treated adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and identify the associated risk factors. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Cochrane Collaboration Library databases were searched. The outcomes of interest were the incidence of disc degeneration, SRS-22, and radiological risk factors. The lower instrumented vertebra (LIV) was also evaluated. Fixed effects were used if there was no evidence of heterogeneity. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager. Results: A meta-analysis was conducted including nine studies with a total of 565 patients. The analysis revealed that the global incidence of intervertebral disc degeneration in patients with surgically treated AIS patients was 24.78% (95% CI 16.59–32.98%) 10 years after surgery, which significantly increased to 32.32% (95% CI 21.16–43.47% at an average of 13.8 years after surgery. Among patients with significant degenerative disc changes, the SRS-22 functional, self-image, and satisfaction domains showed significantly worse results (MD − 0.25, 95% CI − 0.44 to − 0.05; MD − 0.50, 95% CI − 0.75 to − 0.25; and MD − 0.34, 95% CI − 0.66 to − 0.03, respectively). Furthermore, instrumentation at or above the L3 level was associated with a lower incidence of intervertebral disc degeneration compared to instrumentation below the L3 level (OR 0.25, 95% CI 0.10–0.64). It was also found that the preoperative and final follow-up lumbar curve magnitudes (MD 8.11, 95% CI 3.82–12.41) as well as preoperative and final follow-up lumbar lordosis (MD 0.42, 95% CI − 3.81 to 4.65) were associated with adjacent disc degeneration. Conclusions: This meta-analysis demonstrated that the incidence of intervertebral disc degeneration significantly increased with long-term follow-up using fusion techniques, reaching up to 32% when patients were 28 years of age. Incomplete correction of deformity and fusion of levels below L3, were identified as negative prognostic factors. Furthermore, patients with disc degeneration showed worse functional outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a finite abelian p -group A and a subgroup $\Gamma \le \operatorname {\mathrm {Aut}}(A)$ , we say that the pair $(\Gamma ,A)$ is fusion realizable if there is a saturated fusion system ${\mathcal {F}}$ over a finite p -group $S\ge A$ such that $C_S(A)=A$ , $\operatorname {\mathrm {Aut}}_{{\mathcal {F}}}(A)=\Gamma $ as subgroups of $\operatorname {\mathrm {Aut}}(A)$ , and. In this paper, we develop tools to show that certain representations are not fusion realizable in this sense. For example, we show, for $p=2$ or $3$ and $\Gamma $ one of the Mathieu groups, that the only ${\mathbb {F}}_p\Gamma $ -modules that are fusion realizable (up to extensions by trivial modules) are the Todd modules and in some cases their duals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design.: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and comparative retrospective cohort studies. Objective.: The purpose of this study is to compare the 10-year outcomes of cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) with those of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for the treatment of cervical degenerative disc disease (CDDD). Summary of Background Data.: ACDF is the gold standard for the treatment of CDDD. However, the loss of motion at the operative level may accelerate adjacent segment disease (ASD). The preservation of motion with CDA attempts to prevent this complication of cervical fusion. Short-term and mid-term data reveal comparable results for CDA versus ACDF; however, long-term results are unknown. Materials and Methods.: A systematic review with meta-analysis was performed to determine if CDA had improved outcomes compared with ACDF at 10-year follow-up. PubMed and Web of Science database searches through 2023 were performed to identify randomized controlled trials and comparative retrospective cohort studies involving treatment of one-level or two-level CDDD. Results.: Six studies were eligible for analysis. CDA had significantly improved neck disability index and visual analog scale scores but lower Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores compared to ACDF at 10-year follow-up (P < 0.05). None of these results met minimal clinically important differences. CDA had significantly fewer secondary surgeries and adverse events compared to ACDF (P <0.05). There were no significant differences in neurological success. Conclusions.: The authors found that significantly fewer secondary surgeries and adverse events were seen after CDA than after ACDF at 10-year follow-up. CDA had statistically, but not clinically, improved neck disability index and visual analog scale scores but lower Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores in comparison to ACDF. CDA was not significantly different from ACDF in terms of a successful neurological outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The non-uniform illumination in underwater causes degradation of images as when light propagates through water, it gets scattered and absorbed due to various factors. The captured underwater images are mainly suffer from color distortion, color cast, low contrast, poor illumination, and blurred details due to the optical properties of water. Underwater image enhancement plays a preprocessing stage for high-level vision tasks. Therefore, to restore the degraded image and for visual enhancement, we proposed a fusion method for an effective output. This method generates two versions of color-corrected input image and one is given for contrast limited adaptive brightness preservance histogram equalization(CLABPHE) and the other for uniform illuminated sharpened image. The two are fused using their weight maps: Luminance weight map, and Saliency detection weight map, and they are normalized and then multi-layered fused using Laplacian pyramid-based decomposition to get an enhanced output image. The quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the proposed method works effectively for several datasets. The qualitative evaluation shows our method is better than the other algorithms compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusions (TLIFs) are performed for various lumbar spine pathologies. Posterior migration of an interbody cage is a complication that may result in neurologic injury and require reoperation. Sparse information exists regarding the safety and efficacy of a transdural approach for cage retrieval. We describe a surgical technique, in which centrally retropulsed cages were safely retrieved transdurally. A patient with prior L3-S1 posterior lumbar fusion and L4-S1 TLIFs presented with radiculopathy and weakness in dorsiflexion. Imaging revealed posterior central migration of TLIF cages causing compression of the traversing L5 nerve root. Cages were removed transdurally; the correction was performed with an all-posterior T10-pelvis fusion. Aside from temporary weakness in right-sided dorsiflexion, the patient experienced complete resolution in their radiculopathy and strength returned to its presurgical state by 3 months. The transdural approach for interbody removal can be safely performed and should be a tool in the spine surgeon's armamentarium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atlantoaxial subluxation (AAS) is a diagnosis describing misalignment of the C1 vertebra relative to C2. Excessive translation of this joint, located adjacent to the medullary brain stem, can lead to devastating neurological consequences. A higher prevalence of AAS within the Down syndrome (DS) population has been well-established. This study aims to establish a prevalence rate of DS in patients hospitalized for AAS and compare outcomes between AAS patients with and without DS. Methods: This study utilized the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) provided by the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP). In accordance with HCUP 2023 Clinical Classifications Software Refined files, data were queried using the International Classification of Diseases 10th Edition codes for DS and AAS. Demographics, comorbidities, hospital course, and outcomes were examined and compared using binary and linear multivariate regression. IBM SPSS software was used for data analysis. Results: Of the 213,095 patients in the NIS database admitted between 2016 and 2020 with AAS as their primary diagnosis, 7.2% were DS patients. DS patients were significantly younger (26.56 ± 20.81 vs. 49.39 ± 27.63, P < 0.01), less likely to be female (33.30% vs. 52.10%), and had fewer comorbidities (diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia) than non-DS patients. There was no significant difference in likelihood to undergo surgical fusion between DS patients and non-DS patients with AAS. Conclusion: This large-scale study using NIS data determined that 7.2% of all patients admitted to hospitals for AAS are DS patients. The analysis of demographics, hospital course, and outcomes can influence the development of treatment protocols for AAS in the DS population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to identify if construct length affects the rate of surgical complications and instrumentation revision following surgical fixation of subaxial and thoracolumbar Type B and C fractures. This study evaluates the effect of ankylosing spondylitis/diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (AS/DISH) within this population on outcomes. Methods: Retrospective review of 91 cervical and 89 thoracolumbar Type B and C fractures. Groups were divided by construct length for analysis: short-segment (constructs spanning two or less segments adjacent to the fracture) and long-segment (constructs spanning more than two segments adjacent to the vertebral fracture). Results: For cervical fractures, construct length did not impact surgical complications (P = 0.641), surgical hardware revision (P = 0.167), or kyphotic change (P = 0.994). For thoracolumbar fractures, construct length did not impact surgical complications (P = 0.508), surgical hardware revision (P = 0.224), and kyphotic change (P = 0.278). Cervical Type B fractures were nonsignificantly more likely to have worsened kyphosis (P = 0.058) than Type C fractures. Assessing all regions of the spine, a diagnosis of AS/DISH was associated with an increase in kyphosis (P = 0.030) and a diagnosis of osteoporosis was associated with surgical hardware failure (P = 0.006). Conclusion: Patients with short-segment instrumentation have similar surgical outcomes and changes in kyphosis compared to those with long-segment instrumentation. A diagnosis of AS/DISH or osteoporosis was associated with worse surgical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rhBMP-2, or BMP for short) is a popular biological product used in spine surgeries to promote fusion and avoid the morbidity associated with iliac crest autograft. BMP's effect on pseudarthrosis in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) remains unknown. Objective: To assess the rates of pseudarthrosis in single-level TLIF with and without concurrent use of BMP. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study conducted at a single academic institution. Adults undergoing primary single-level TLIF with a minimum of 1 year of clinical and radiographic follow-up were included. BMP use was determined by operative notes at index surgery. Non-BMP cases with iliac crest bone graft were excluded. Pseudarthrosis was determined using radiographic and clinical evaluation. Bivariate differences between groups were assessed by independent t test and Ω2 analyses, and perioperative characteristics were analyzed by multiple logistic regression. Results: One hundred forty-eight single-level TLIF patients were included. The mean age was 59.3 years, and 52.0% were women. There were no demographic differences between patients who received BMP and those who did not. Pseudarthrosis rates in patients treated with BMP were 6.2% vs 7.5% in the no BMP group (P = 0.756). There was no difference in reoperation for pseudarthrosis between patients who received BMP (3.7%) vs those who did not receive BMP (7.5%, P = 0.314). Patients who underwent revision surgery for pseudarthrosis more commonly had diabetes with end-organ damage (revised 37.5% vs not revised 1.4%, P < 0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated no reduction in reoperation for pseudarthrosis related to BMP use (OR 0.2, 95% CI 0.1-3.7, P = 0.269). Diabetes with end-organ damage (OR 112.6,95% CI 5.7-2225.8, P = 0.002) increased the risk of reoperation for pseudarthrosis. Conclusions: BMP use did not reduce the rate of pseudarthrosis or the number of reoperations for pseudarthrosis in single-level TLIFs. Diabetes with end-organ damage was a significant risk factor for pseudarthrosis. Clinical Relevance: BMP is frequently used "off-label" in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion; however, little data exists to demonstrate its safety and efficacy in this procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is an increasing acceptance of conducting minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) in ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs). The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) introduced the Hospitals Without Walls (HWW) program in March 2020. This program granted hospitals regulatory flexibility to offer services and procedures in nontraditional locations, including ASCs. However, implementation hurdles persist. Methods: A survey was sent to 235 surgeons regarding the use of ASCs for performing TLIF surgeries on elderly patients. Multiple-choice questions covering various aspects of TLIF practice preferences, including surgical indications, decision factors for choosing ASCs over hospitals, implementation hurdles, reimbursement concerns, staffing issues, and the impact of CMS rules and regulations on TLIF in ASCs, particularly concerning physician ownership and self-referral conflicts governed by the Stark law, were asked. Results: The survey completion rate was 25.8% (Figure 1). The most common surgical indications for TLIF in ASCs were spondylolisthesis (80%), spinal stenosis (62.5%), and low back pain (47.5%). Most surgeons (78%) believed TLIF could be safely performed in ASCs. Streamlined workflow, lower infection rates, and cost-effectiveness were advantages listed by 58.5% of surgeons. Patient's medical history (75.8%), followed by ASC resources and capabilities (61%) and surgeon preference (61%), were relevant factors. Higher efficiencies at ASCs (14.6%), contractual issues (9.8%), and ownership issues (7.3%) were less relevant to surgeons. About 65.9% of surgeons reported lower reimbursement in ASCs, and 43.9% said it was an implementation hurdle. Lower direct costs were reported by 53.7% of surgeons. Other hurdles included a lack of trained staff (24.4%), inadequate staffing (22.0%), cost overruns (26.8%), high Joint Commission or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care credentialing costs, and surgeons feeling uncomfortable performing TLIF in ASCs (22.0%). Only 17.1% listed medical problems as a reason their patient was considered unsuitable for the ASC environment. A majority (53.7%) stated that their ASCs complied with strict Stark requirements by disclosing physician ownership interests. However, 22% of surgeons reported self-referrals under the "In-Office Ancillary Services Exception" allowed by the Stark law. Conclusion: Our survey data show that surgeons' perceptions of current CMS rules and regulations may hinder the transition into the ASC setting because they think the reimbursement is too low and the regulatory burden is too high. ASCs have disproportionally higher initial acquisition and ongoing costs related to staff training and maintenance of the TLIF technology that CMS should consider when determining the appropriate financial remuneration for these complex procedures. Clinical Relevance: ASC offers a viable and attractive option for their TLIF procedure with the advantage of same-day discharge and at-home recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Internet is an important source of information for patients, but its effectiveness relies on the readability of its content. Patient education materials (PEMs) should be written at or below a sixth-grade reading level as outlined by agencies such as the American Medical Association. This study assessed PEMs' readability for the novel anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT), distraction-based methods, and posterior spinal fusion (PSF) in treating pediatric spinal deformity. Methods: An online search identified PEMs using the terms "anterior vertebral body tethering," "growing rods scoliosis," and "posterior spinal fusion pediatric scoliosis." We selected the first 20 general medical websites (GMWs) and 10 academic health institution websites (AHIWs) discussing each treatment (90 websites total). Readability tests for each webpage were conducted using Readability Studio software. Reading grade levels (RGLs), which correspond to the US grade at which one is expected to comprehend the text, were calculated for sources and independent t tests compared with RGLs between treatment types. Results: The mean RGL was 12.1 ± 2.0. No articles were below a sixth-grade reading level, with only 2.2% at the sixth-grade reading level. AVBT articles had a higher RGL than distraction-based methods (12.7 ± 1.6 vs 11.9 ± 1.9, P = 0.082) and PSF (12.7 ± 1.6 vs 11.6 ± 2.3, P = 0.032). Materials for distraction-based methods and PSF were comparable (11.9 ± 1.9 vs 11.6 ± 2.3, P = 0.566). Among GMWs, AVBT materials had a higher RGL than distraction-based methods (12.9 ± 1.4 vs 12.1 ± 1.8, P = 0.133) and PSF (12.9 ± 1.4 vs 11.4 ± 2.4, P = 0.016). Clinical Relevance: Patients' health literacy is important for shared decision-making. Assessing the readability of scoliosis treatment PEMs guides physicians when sharing resources and discussing treatment with patients. Conclusion: Both GMWs and AHIWs exceed recommended RGLs, which may limit patient and parent understanding. Within GMWs, AVBT materials are written at a higher RGL than other treatments, which may hinder informed decision-making and patient outcomes. Efforts should be made to create online resources at the appropriate RGL. At the very least, patients and parents may be directed toward AHIWs; RGLs are more consistent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the quest for superior materials, especially in industrial applications demanding strength, stiffness, low density, and cost‐efficiency, composite materials have emerged as game changers. Combining a polymer matrix with reinforcement materials, they hold great promise. However, the challenge of particle agglomeration looms large, especially at high loadings. Particle agglomeration disrupts filler distribution and gives rise to voids in polymer composites. This study investigates the fusion behavior of agglomerated Nylon particles and their influence on Nylon/epoxy composites. Using epoxy resin and Nylon SP301, a micron‐sized Nylon 12 powder with a 185°C melting point, composites were prepared at 3%, 9%, and 15% Nylon loading. After curing, these composites underwent controlled heating at 185, 195, and 205°C, with a fusion of 20–100 min. At 185°C, particles initially remain separate, forming slight clumps after 20 min and increasingly sticking together at 60 and 100 min. Shifting to 195°C, particles begin consolidating into a solid mass even after 20 min. The introduction of Nylon decreases composite density compared to pure epoxy, and density changes vary with fusion time, exhibiting complete fusion, partial fusion, and shrinkage‐induced gap formation. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis reveals evolving glass transition temperatures (Tg) influenced by the fusion process, with longer fusion times yielding higher Tg and greater heat capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasma naturally exists throughout the universe, and recently, mankind has realized its vast technological applications. The scope of current plasma physics experiments has produced several well-established industrial applications in addition to several exciting new ones. This review aims to give a basic overview of the area of plasmas and the role plasma physics plays in current scientific endeavours to the broader scientific and technological community. This paper describes the benefits of plasma technology to humankind in various fields, including medicine and engineering disciplines like mechanical, chemical, and electrical. The technological applications include materials processing like semiconductor manufacturing, surface treatment, lighting, cutting by plasma, and plasma etching. Also, the various environmental applications of plasma as a roadmap to environmental sustainability are discussed. The possibilities for plasma physics in the future are summarized in conclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying and characterizing the decay chains forms a crucial part of nuclide identification in the synthesis of super-heavy elements (SHEs), which is achieved via cold or hot fusion reactions. A systematic theoretical calculation of alpha-decay half-lives in this region of the periodic system may be useful in the identification of new nuclei in both types of reactions. Here, we obtain the alpha-decay half-lives in the framework of the dynamical cluster-decay model (DCM) based on quantum mechanical fragmentation theory (QMFT), built using pre-formation probability and penetration probability. We calculate the α-decay half-life using the DCM (ℓ = 0 case), which considers the compound nucleus hot due to its recoil energy after neutron emission, providing a more accurate description than other models. Decay half-lives are compared with experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Retrospective cohort study. Objectives: To determine if standing pre-discharge radiographs can predict the development of junctional complications. Materials and methods: Adult spinal deformity patients who underwent fusion of the lumbar spine (≥5 levels, LIV pelvis) were included. All patients underwent full-length standing radiographs before hospital discharge. Outcomes of interest included 2-year radiographic PJK and proximal junctional failure (PJF). Patients were stratified into 3 exclusive groups: No PJK, PJK, and PJF. Chi-square automatic interaction detection (CHAID) decision tree analysis was utilized to identify pre-discharge proximal junctional angle (PJA) thresholds associated with increased risk of PJK or PJF. Results: The 117 study patients had a mean age 65.8 ± 8.5, BMI 27.2 ± 4.9, PI-LL 23.3 ± 17.4, TPA 27.2 ± 11.5. Sample was stratified into 64 (54.7%) No PJK, 39 (33.3%) PJK, 14 (12.0%) PJF. No differences were detected between cohorts in discharge alignment, preop-discharge change, or offset from age-adjusted alignment targets (P >.005). Decision tree analysis showed that the first branch point depended on the UIV, as most patients with an UT UIV did not develop PJK or PJF (no PJK, 67.4%). For patients with an LT UIV, a second branch point occurred based on the ΔPJA. 89.5% of LT patients with a ΔPJA < 4.3° were free of radiographic PJK and PJF. The third branch point occurred based on the PJA at discharge. Thus, the highest risk group was comprised of ΔPJA ≥4.3° and PJA > 15.5°, as 57.1% of developed PJF and 28.6% PJK. Conclusion: Most patients with a lower thoracic UIV, preop-discharge ΔPJA ≥4.3°, and discharge PJA > 15.5° develop PJF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and aim. Anomalies in dental characteristics such as size, shape, number, structure, and eruption are commonly observed in clinical conditions. One such anomaly is the presence of supernumerary teeth found in various regions of the dental arch. Although frequently asymptomatic, supernumerary teeth are routinely identified during radiographic evaluations. Among the most common causes of impacted maxillary incisors is the presence of supernumerary teeth. Description of the case. Herein, we present a rare case of lower left canine impaction subsequent to a supernumerary fusion to the mandibular left incisor in a 10-year-old Caucasian female. Conclusion. This case contributes to the current knowledge regarding supernumerary fused teeth, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and multidisciplinary collaboration in effectively managing such developmental dental irregularities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dion is a human person, Lefty is his left foot, and Theon is Lefty-Complement, a proper part of Dion. Lefty is annihilated and Dion survives left-footless. After Lefty's annihilation Theon, if he survives, occupies the same region as Dion. I suggest that this scenario be understood as a fusion case in which Dion and Theon, initially overlapping but distinct, are identical after Lefty's annihilation and propose an account of proper names that allows us to say that Dion and Theon have 'become identical' without commitment to occasional identity or other controversial metaphysical doctrines. The proposed solution employs the semantics developed by Wolfgang Schwarz to address the 'paradox of occasional identity', posed by puzzle cases of fission, to deal with the problem of Dion and Theon, a body-minus puzzle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunological testing to detect neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) is important in measles (MV) infection control. Currently, the plaque reduction neutralization test is the only credible method for measuring actual virus NAbs; however, its feasibility is hampered by drawbacks, such as long turnaround times, low throughput, and the need for laboratory biosafety equipment. To solve these problems, we developed a simple and rapid MV‐NAb detection system using lentivirus‐based virus‐like particles incorporated with the NanoLuc fragment peptide HiBiT comprising the MV fusion protein and hemagglutinin on their exterior surface. Overall, this simple, safe, and rapid method could be used to detect MV NAbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tibiocalcaneal arthrodesis (TCA) can be achieved by internal fixation (intramedullary nail or plate), external fixation, or a combination. Evidence for the optimal approach is limited. This systematic review examines the outcomes of these different approaches to guide surgical management. Methods: A MEDLINE and Oxford SOLO search was performed using "tibiocalcaneal," "ankle," "fusion OR arthrodesis." The primary outcome was union. Secondary outcomes included rates of postoperative complications, weightbearing status, rates of revision surgery, and PROMs. We included any studies with follow-up greater than 6 months that contained our primary outcome and at least 1 secondary outcome. Results: The initial search yielded 164 articles, of which 9 studies totaling 53 cases met the criteria. The majority of articles were excluded because they were nonsurgical studies, or were not about isolated TCA but were for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis, more complex reconstructions (eg, Charcot), case reports, and/or did not include the predetermined outcome measures. TCA union rate was 86.2% following external fixation, 82.4% for intramedullary nail fixation, and 83.3% for plate fixation. One patient underwent a hybrid of external and internal fixation, and the outcome was nonunion. The rate of complications following TCA was 69.8%. Conclusion: There is limited evidence on the best operative approach for isolated tibiocalcaneal arthrodesis. Both external and internal fixation methods had comparable union rates. External fixation had frequent complications and a more challenging postoperative protocol. Novel techniques such as 3D-printed cages and talus replacement may become a promising alternative but require further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significant advancements in machine learning algorithms have the potential to aid in the early detection and prevention of cancer, a devastating disease. However, traditional research methods face obstacles, and the amount of cancer-related information is rapidly expanding. The authors have developed a helpful support system using three distinct deep-learning models, ResNet-50, EfficientNet-B3, and ResNet-101, along with transfer learning, to predict lung cancer, thereby contributing to health and reducing the mortality rate associated with this condition. This offer aims to address the issue effectively. Using a dataset of 1,000 DICOM lung cancer images from the LIDC-IDRI repository, each image is classified into four different categories. Although deep learning is still making progress in its ability to analyze and understand cancer data, this research marks a significant step forward in the fight against cancer, promoting better health outcomes and potentially lowering the mortality rate. The Fusion Model, like all other models, achieved 100% precision in classifying Squamous Cells. The Fusion Model and ResNet-50 achieved a precision of 90%, closely followed by EfficientNet-B3 and ResNet-101 with slightly lower precision. To prevent overfitting and improve data collection and planning, the authors implemented a data extension strategy. The relationship between acquiring knowledge and reaching specific scores was also connected to advancing and addressing the issue of imprecise accuracy, ultimately contributing to advancements in health and a reduction in the mortality rate associated with lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

If mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell, then mitochondrial dynamics are the power grid that regulates how that energy output is directed and maintained in response to unique physiological demands. Fission and fusion dynamics are highly regulated processes that fine-tune the mitochondrial networks of cells to enable appropriate responses to intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli, thereby maintaining cellular and organismal homeostasis. These dynamics shape many aspects of an organism's healthspan including development, longevity, stress resistance, immunity, and response to disease. In this review, we discuss the latest findings regarding the mechanisms and roles of mitochondrial dynamics by focussing on the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Whole live-animal studies in C. elegans have enabled a true organismal-level understanding of the impact that mitochondrial dynamics play in homeostasis over a lifetime. [Display omitted] • Mitochondrial fission in C. elegans is mediated by DRP-1 and aided by FIS-1/2 and MFF-1/2. • Inner and outer membrane fusion is facilitated by EAT-3 and FZO-1, respectively. • Mitochondrial dynamics are critical for maintaining organismal homeostasis. • C. elegans is used to study dynamics during development, ageing, and disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondria-Associated Endoplasmic Reticulum Membranes (MAMs) mediate the communication between the Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) and the mitochondria, playing a fundamental role in steroidogenesis. This study aimed to understand how D-aspartate (D-Asp), a well-known stimulator of testosterone biosynthesis and spermatogenesis, affects the mechanism of steroidogenesis in rat testes. Our results suggested that D-Asp exerts this function through MAMs, affecting lipid trafficking, calcium signaling, ER stress, and mitochondrial dynamics. After 15 days of oral administration of D-Asp to rats, there was an increase in both antioxidant enzymes (SOD and Catalase) and in the protein expression levels of ATAD3A, FACL4, and SOAT1, which are markers of lipid transfer, as well as VDAC and GRP75, which are markers of calcium signaling. Additionally, there was a decrease in protein expression levels of GRP78, a marker of aging that counteracts ER stress. The effects of D-Asp on mitochondrial dynamics strongly suggested its active role as well. It induced the expression levels of proteins involved in fusion (MFN1, MFN2, and OPA1) and in biogenesis (NRF1 and TFAM), as well as in mitochondrial mass (TOMM20), and decreased the expression level of DRP1, a crucial mitochondrial fission marker. These findings suggested D-Asp involvement in the functional improvement of mitochondria during steroidogenesis. Immunofluorescent signals of ATAD3A, MFN1/2, TFAM, and TOMM20 confirmed their localization in Leydig cells showing an intensity upgrade in D-Asp-treated rat testes. Taken together, our results demonstrate the involvement of D-Asp in the steroidogenesis of rat testes, acting at multiple stages of both MAMs and mitochondrial dynamics, opening new opportunities for future investigation in other steroidogenic tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the potential of protein therapeutics, the cytosolic delivery of proteins with high efficiency and bioactivity remains a significant challenge owing to exocytosis and lysosomal degradation after endocytosis. Therefore, it is important to develop a safe and efficient strategy to bypass endocytosis. Inspired by the extraordinary capability of filamentous‐actin (F‐actin) to promote cell membrane fusion, a cyanine dye assembly‐containing nanoplatform mimicking the structure of natural F‐actin is developed. The nanoplatform exhibits fast membrane fusion to cell membrane mimics and thus enters live cells through membrane fusion and bypasses endocytosis. Moreover, it is found to efficiently deliver protein cargos into live cells and quickly release them into the cytosol, leading to high protein cargo transfection efficiency and bioactivity. The nanoplatform also results in the superior inhibition of tumor cells when loaded with anti‐tumor proteins. These results demonstrate that this fusogenic nanoplatform can be valuable for cytosolic protein delivery and tumor treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Biportal endoscopic spine surgery independently controls two hands, similar to microscopic surgery, and utilizes a broader working space that is not disturbed by retractors under clear-magnified endoscopic vision. These advantages facilitate successful neural decompression and safe transforaminal interbody fusion, even in patients with thoracic spondylotic myelopathy. Methods: A wide laminectomy and precise total facetectomy, in conjunction with partial pediculotomy, establish a secure transforaminal space for cage insertion. Endplate preparation and cage insertion were performed without retracting the spinal cord under direct endoscopic vision. Conclusion: Biportal endoscopic transforaminal thoracic interbody fusion can be a feasible technique for treating thoracic spondylotic myelopathy at the thoracolumbar junction levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human ear detection is one of the key features in biometric-based identification and person authentication. Detecting ears for position, dimension, and texture is tedious due to the height and movement of humans. The biometric systems based on ear detection are defaced by the height of humans and specific positions. For this purpose, a multi-feature and multi-contour-based assessment for precise detection is required. To address this problem, this article introduces an Enhanced Active Contour Method (EACM) for improving ear detection precision. The proposed method extracts the textural features for differentiating the antitragus and helix of the human ear. The extracted features are fused using a fuzzy threshold for the maximum possibilities of the ear structures. In verifying the maximum possibilities, the helix and antitragus contours are fused by identifying similar features. The features from the existing dataset are used for verifying the similarity; the similarity succeeding contours are used for detecting human ears. The proposed method maximizes accuracy and precision by 12.99% and 12.79% and reduces extraction time by 11.34%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With over 2.1 million new cases of breast cancer diagnosed annually, the incidence and mortality rate of this disease pose severe global health issues for women. Identifying the disease's influence is the only practical way to lessen it immediately. Numerous research works have developed automated methods using different medical imaging to identify BC. Still, the precision of each strategy differs based on the available resources, the issue's nature, and the dataset being used. We proposed a novel deep bottleneck convolutional neural network with a quantum optimization algorithm for breast cancer classification and diagnosis from mammogram images. Two novel deep architectures named three-residual blocks bottleneck and four-residual blocks bottle have been proposed with parallel and single paths. Bayesian Optimization (BO) has been employed to initialize hyperparameter values and train the architectures on the selected dataset. Deep features are extracted from the global average pool layer of both models. After that, a kernel-based canonical correlation analysis and entropy technique is proposed for the extracted deep features fusion. The fused feature set is further refined using an optimization technique named quantum generalized normal distribution optimization. The selected features are finally classified using several neural network classifiers, such as bi-layered and wide-neural networks. The experimental process was conducted on a publicly available mammogram imaging dataset named IN breast, and a maximum accuracy of 96.5% was obtained. Moreover, for the proposed method, the sensitivity rate is 96.45, the precision rate is 96.5, the F1 score value is 96.64, the MCC value is 92.97%, and the Kappa value is 92.97%, respectively. The proposed architectures are further utilized for the diagnosis process of infected regions. In addition, a detailed comparison has been conducted with a few recent techniques showing the proposed framework's higher accuracy and precision rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rotational vertebrobasilar artery syndrome, or bow hunter syndrome, is a rare yet well-documented pathology. This study presents a surgical approach to a latent manifestation of dynamic, extension-only, bilateral codominant vertebral artery compression in the V3 segment, associated with craniocervical instability and central canal stenosis. The clinical presentation involves the treatment of positional vertigo resulting from left and high-grade right vertebral artery stenosis during neck extension only. Diagnosis was confirmed through a formal angiogram under provocative maneuvers. Surgical intervention, detailed in this section, employed a multidisciplinary approach, including intraoperative angiograms to ensure patent vertebral arteries precraniocervical fusion. The surgical treatment demonstrated success in addressing extension-only vertebrobasilar syndrome and associated complications of C1-2 pannus and craniocervical instability. Intraoperative angiograms confirmed vertebral artery patency pre- and postsurgical positioning, ensuring the effectiveness of the multidisciplinary approach. This study concludes by highlighting the successful multidisciplinary surgical treatment of a patient with nonunion of a C1 Jefferson fracture, leading to extension-only vertebrobasilar syndrome complicated by C1-2 pannus and craniocervical instability. The importance of considering vertebral artery dynamic stenosis in cases of positional vertigo or transient neurological symptoms following an injury is emphasized. Surgical stabilization, particularly when conservative measures prove ineffective, is recommended, with careful attention to pre- and postsurgical positioning to verify vertebral artery patency and posterior vasculature integrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emotion classification using physiological signals is a promising approach that is likely to become the most prevalent method. Bio-signals such as those derived from Electrocardiograms (ECGs) and the Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) are more reliable than facial and voice recognition signals because they are not influenced by the participant's subjective perception. However, the precision of emotion classification with ECG and GSR signals is not satisfactory, and new methods need to be developed to improve it. In addition, the fusion of the time and frequency features of ECG and GSR signals should be explored to increase classification accuracy. Therefore, we propose a novel technique for emotion classification that exploits the early fusion of ECG and GSR features extracted from data in the AMIGOS database. To validate the performance of the model, we used various machine learning classifiers, such as Support Vector Machine (SVM), Decision Tree, Random Forest (RF), and K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) classifiers. The KNN classifier gives the highest accuracy for Valence and Arousal, with 69% and 70% for ECG and 96% and 94% for GSR, respectively. The mutual information technique of feature selection and KNN for classification outperformed the performance of other classifiers. Interestingly, the classification accuracy for the GSR was higher than for the ECG, indicating that the GSR is the preferred modality for emotion detection. Moreover, the fusion of features significantly enhances the accuracy of classification in comparison to the ECG. Overall, our findings demonstrate that the proposed model based on the multiple modalities is suitable for classifying emotions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In December 2022, a scientific breakthrough in fusion energy resulted in widespread media attention with a focus on fusion as a key strategy to mitigate climate change. In this article, we draw from Herbert Marcuse's work on technological rationality to examine fusion technology in this context. We explore if fusion is seen as a way to master nature, if it protects current power relations, and if a focus on fusion might detract attention and resources from alternatives. Illustrating technological rationality, much attention is being given to the potential achievement of fusion energy, it is being championed by already powerful economic actors, and despite that it is unlikely to be ready in time to support necessary climate mitigation, it may be detracting support for more effective and just strategies that already exist. In this context, framing fusion as a solution to climate change represents what Marcuse calls 'one-dimensional thinking'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MADS-box transcription factors have crucial functions in numerous physiological and biochemical processes during plant growth and development. Previous studies have reported that two MADS-box genes, SlMBP21 and SlMADS1, play important regulatory roles in the sepal development of tomato, respectively. However, the functional relationships between these two genes are still unknown. In order to investigate this, we simultaneously studied these two genes in tomato. Phylogenetic analysis showed that they were classified into the same branch of the SEPALLATA (SEP) clade. qRT-PCR displayed that both SlMBP21 and SlMADS1 transcripts are preferentially accumulated in sepals, and are increased with flower development. During sepal development, SlMBP21 is increased but SlMADS1 is decreased. Using the RNAi, tomato plants with reduced SlMBP21 mRNA generated enlarged and fused sepals, while simultaneous inhibition of SlMBP21 and SlMADS1 led to larger (longer and wider) and fused sepals than that in SlMBP21-RNAi lines. qRT-PCR results exhibited that the transcripts of genes relating to sepal development, ethylene, auxin and cell expansion were dramatically changed in SlMBP21-RNAi sepals, especially in SlMBP21-SlMADS1-RNAi sepals. Yeast two-hybrid assay displayed that SlMBP21 can interact with SlMBP21, SlAP2a, TAGL1 and RIN, and SlMADS1 can interact with SlAP2a and RIN, respectively. In conclusion, SlMBP21 and SlMADS1 cooperatively regulate sepal development in tomato by impacting the expression or activities of other related regulators or via interactions with other regulatory proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pseudarthrosis after cervical spine surgery represents an underreported and challenging complication. Using a large multi-center surgical database, we sought to: (1) report the incidence of cervical pseudarthrosis, (2) evaluate changes in rates of cervical pseudarthrosis, and (3) describe risk factors for suboptimal outcomes after cervical pseudarthrosis surgery. Methods: The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2012 to 2019 was used. The primary outcome was occurrence of a cervical fusion procedure with a prior diagnosis of pseudarthrosis. Fusion for pseudarthrosis was divided into anterior and posterior approaches. Post-operative complications were classified as major or minor. Prolonged LOS was defined as exceeding the 75th percentile for total hospital stay. Results: A total of 780 patients underwent cervical fusion for pseudarthrosis, and a significant increase in rates of surgery for pseudarthrosis was seen (0.25–1.2%, p < 0.001). The majority of cervical pseudarthrosis was treated with a posterior approach (66.5%). Postoperatively, 38 (4.9%) patients suffered a complication and 247 (31.7%) had a prolonged LOS. The three strongest risk factors for complications and extended LOS were > 10% weight loss preoperatively, congestive heart failure, and pre-operative bleeding disorder. Conclusion: Results from a large multi-center national database revealed that surgery to treat cervical pseudarthrosis has increased from 2012 to 2019. Most pseudarthrosis was treated with a posterior approach. Reoperation to treat cervical pseudarthrosis carried risk, with 5% having complications and 32% having an extended LOS. These results lay the groundwork for a future prospective study to discern the true incidence of cervical pseudarthrosis and how to best avoid its occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is often triggered by genetic alterations that result in the expression of oncogenic tyrosine kinases. Specifically, ALK, RET, and ROS1 chimeric receptor tyrosine kinases are observed in approximately 5–7%, 1–2%, and 1–2% of NSCLC patients, respectively. The presence of these fusion genes determines the response to tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Thus, accurate detection of these gene fusions is essential in cancer research and precision oncology. To address this need, we have developed a multiplexed RT-qPCR assay using xeno nucleic acid (XNA) molecular clamping technology to detect lung cancer fusions. This assay can quantitatively detect thirteen ALK, seven ROS1, and seven RET gene fusions in FFPE samples. The sensitivity of the assay was established at a limit of detection of 50 copies of the synthetic template. Our assay has successfully identified all fusion transcripts using 50 ng of RNA from both reference FFPE samples and cell lines. After validation, a total of 77 lung cancer patient FFPE samples were tested, demonstrating the effectiveness of the XNA-based fusion gene assay with clinical samples. Importantly, this assay is adaptable to highly degraded RNA samples with low input amounts. Future steps involve expanding the testing to include a broader range of clinical samples as well as cell-free RNAs to further validate its applicability and reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Far lateral lumbar disc herniations are distinct from intracanal herniations in clinical, radiological, and surgical aspects. This study aimed to assess surgical outcomes and recurrence risk factors for far lateral disc herniations treated with trans pars microsurgery. Methods: Retrospective analysis included patients diagnosed with far lateral disc herniation who underwent Microscopic Transpars Discectomy at our university hospital between 2017 and 2022. Data encompassed demographics, pain characteristics, neurological status, radiological findings, surgical duration, pre/postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores, and late postoperative satisfaction rates. Results: Of 91 patients (58.2% men, 41.8% women; mean age 57.42 ± 10.47 years), 76.92% had excellent outcomes, 16.48% good, and 6.5% fair; recurrence occurred in 5.5%. No significant differences were found between recurrent and non-recurrent cases in sex, age, herniation side, operation time, or levels (p > 0.05). Similarly, there were no significant differences in recurrent cases for pre/postoperative VAS (p > 0.05) or ODI scores (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Microdiscectomy performed via transpars intervention is a safe and effective technique for the surgical treatment of far lateral disc herniation; age, sex, herniation level, herniation side, and VAS and ODI scores were not identified as recurrence risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design. Prospective randomized controlled trial. Objective. Compare range of motion (ROM) and adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) following cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) versus anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) at 20-year follow-up. Summary of Background Data. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is the standard of treatment for single-level cervical disc degeneration causing radiculopathy. CDA is claimed to reduce shear strain, and adjacent-level ROM changes are hypothesized to hasten ASD with ACDF. Materials and Methods. This study collected data on 47 patients randomized to ACDF or CDA. Lateral cervical spine radiographs were evaluated preoperatively, postoperatively, and at 20 years for alignment, ROM, ASD, and heterotopic ossification. Results. Eighty-two percent (18/22) of CDA patients and 84% (21/25) of ACDF patients followed up at 20 years. At 20 years, total cervical (C2--C7) ROM was statistically different between the CDA and fusion groups (47.8° vs. 33.4°, P=0.005). Total cervical ROM was not significantly different between preoperative and 20-year periods following CDA (45.6° vs. 47.4°, P=0.772) or ACDF (40.6° vs.33.0°, P=0.192). Differences in postoperative and 20-year index-level ROM following CDA were not significant (10.1° vs. 10.2°, P=0.952). Final ASD grading was statistically lower following CDA versus ACDF at both adjacent levels (P<0.005). Twenty-year adjacent-level ossification development was increased following ACDF versus CDA (P<0.001). Polyethylene mean thickness decreased from 9.4 mm immediately postoperatively to 9.1 mm at 20-year follow up (P=0.013). Differences in adjacent-level ROM from preoperative to 20-year follow-up in both the ACDF and CDA groups did not meet statistical significance (P>0.05). Conclusions. Cervical disc arthroplasty maintains index-level and total cervical ROM with very long-term follow-up. Total cervical ROM was higher at 20 years in CDA relative to ACDF. CDA results in lower rates of ASD and adjacent-level ossification development than ACDF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a subtype of mature B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Most cases exhibit CCDN1/IGH translocation; however, reports indicate that amplification of the fusion gene is extremely rare. A 72-year-old male patient diagnosed with an MCL blastoid variant was referred to us. Amplified CCDN1(11q13)/IGH(14q32.3) fusion genes were observed in 75% of the interphase nuclei of the patient. We present the first case of blastoid variant MCL with multiple IGH/CCND1 fusion signals by interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization. Our patient exhibited an aggressive course and passed away on the second day of treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]