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Activation of procaspase-8 in the death effector domain (DED) filaments of the death-inducing signaling complex (DISC) is a key step in apoptosis. In this study, a rationally designed cell-penetrating peptide, DEDid, was engineered to mimic the h 2b helical region of procaspase-8-DED2 containing a highly conservative FL motif. Furthermore, mutations were introduced into the DEDid binding site of the procaspase-8 type I interface. Additionally, our data suggest that DEDid targets other type I DED interactions such as those of FADD. Both approaches of blocking type I DED interactions inhibited CD95L-induced DISC assembly, caspase activation and apoptosis. We showed that inhibition of procaspase-8 type I interactions by mutations not only diminished procaspase-8 recruitment to the DISC but also destabilized the FADD core of DED filaments. Taken together, this study offers insights to develop strategies to target DED proteins, which may be considered in diseases associated with cell death and inflammation. [Display omitted] • A rationally designed peptide, DEDid, was engineered to target type I DED interactions • DEDid mimics the h 2b of procaspase-8-DED2 containing a highly conservative FL motif • Targeting type I DED interactions inhibited DED filament assembly and apoptosis • Assembly of the DED proteins at the DISC occurs in a cooperative manner König, Ivanisenko, and Hillert-Richter et al. develop a cell-penetrating peptide, DEDid, that targets the type I interface of procaspase-8 and DED protein FADD. DEDid inhibits DED filament assembly, caspase activation, and apoptosis. This study opens promising avenues for developing future strategies to target DED proteins associated with cell death and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanisms of CD95 (Fas/APO-1)-mediated extrinsic apoptotic pathway in cancer cells have been extensively studied. The majority of human cells express CD95, but not all these cells can induce extrinsic apoptosis. Accumulating evidence has shown that CD95 is a multifunctional protein, and its stimulation can also elicit non-apoptotic or even survival signals. It has become clear that under certain cellular contexts, due to the various checkpoints, CD95 activation can trigger both apoptotic and non-apoptotic signals. The crosstalk of death and survival signals may occur at different levels of signal transduction. The strength of the CD95 stimulation, initial levels of anti-apoptotic proteins, and posttranslational modifications of the core DISC components have been proposed to be the most important factors in the life/death decisions at CD95. Successful therapeutic targeting of CD95 signaling pathways will require a better understanding of the crosstalk between CD95-induced apoptotic and cell survival pathways. In this review, in order to gain a systematic understanding of the crosstalk between CD95-mediated apoptosis and non-apoptotic signaling, we will discuss these issues in a step-by-step way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factorial experiment carried out in 2024 in southern Baghdad, for the aim of evaluation the performance of heavy disc harrow offset with tractor engine 120 horse power under different moisture soil (14 % and 8 %), depth of pulverization (8 and15 cm) speed of tractor (4.7 and 8.2 km.h-1) in medium texture soil which was silty clay loam, after soil tilted at 20 cm by used moldboard plow width 1.05 cm as a primary tillage. Pulverization the soil under moisture 8 % gave higher (best) soil pulverization rate was 70.49 %, productivity 1.5824 ha.h-1, specific productivity 5273 m.h-1, least number of clods < 0.05 was 7.83 clods.m-2 and fuel consumption 12.40 L.ha-1. Depth pulverization 8 cm gave on the best pulverization soil rate 71.51 %, number of clods < 0.05 was 5.08 clods.m-2, productivity 1.5992 ha.h-1 and least fuel consumption 12.04 L.ha-1. Speed of the tractor8.2 km.h-1 gave better soil pulverization rate 70.57 %, productivity 2.0151 ha.h-1, specific productivity 6715 m.h-1, least number of clods< 0.05 was 7 clods.m-2 and fuel consumption 11.81 L.ha-1. All interaction among the treatments was significant difference. Correlation were direct and inverse, significantly and non-significant. Concluded the most effected factors in the study was tractor speed then depth of tillage and both of them more than influent from moisture of soil, pulverization soil at low moisture level 8 % and used higher speed tractor 8.2 km.h-1 and pulverize depth 8 cm gave a better results comparing with the rest of the factors in this field experiment.

Study Design: Cadaveric anatomical studies. Objective: This study aims to investigate the anatomical relationship between bony landmark "V point", dural sac, nerve roots, and intervertebral disc for improving operative outcomes and decreasing post-operative complications in posterior endoscopic cervical foraminotomy or discectomy (PECF or PECD). Methods: 10 soft adult cadavers were studied. We measured the distance of the V point to the lateral margin of dural sac, V point to the inferior border of intervertebral disc, and the inferior border of cervical nerve root to the inferior border of intervertebral disc. Then we calculated the mean of distance from V point to the inferior border of cervical nerve root. Results: The mean distance from the V point to the lateral margin of dural sac from C3/4 to C7/T1 ranged from 3.1 ± 1.38 mm to 3.37 ± 1.46 mm. The mean distances from V point to the inferior border of intervertebral disc from C3/4 to C7/T1 were.19 ± 1.16 mm at C3/4,.45 ± 1.23 mm at C4/5,.43 ± 1.01 at C5/6, −.43 ± 1.86 mm at C6/7 and −1.5 ± 1.2 mm at C7/T1. The mean distance between V point and the inferior border of cervical nerve root from C3/4 to C7/T1 showed all positive value, ranging from.06 ± 1.18 mm to 4.45 ± 2.57 mm, increasing caudally. Conclusion: In performing PECF or PECD, a 3-4 mm radius of bone removal should be enough for exposure and neural decompression at C3/4 to C5/6. At C6/7 and C7/T1 a more extensive bone cut of more than 4 mm is recommended, especially in cranial direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conjugated electrospinning is an exciting way to prepare nanoyarns. However, all currently reported preparations of nanofiber yarns by conjugated electrospinning use needles, which can cause discontinuous yarn production due to plugging needles during the preparation process. Herein, a novel disc treated with rounded corners as the spinneret of conjugated electrospinning was developed to spin continuously twisted nanofiber yarn to overcome the existing problems. First, finite element analysis was used to optimize the parameters of the disc. The disc exhibited the optimal field strength distribution on the spinning surface when the disc rounding angle was 0.7, and the coefficient of variation value of the field strength was only 12.6%. After that, we optimized the effect of spinning parameters on yarn yield by central composite design. In addition, the impact of spinning parameters on fiber morphology was also investigated. Under the optimized parameters, it is possible to spin continuously at a 360 m/h speed for at least 1 h without breaking. This innovative approach provides a novel idea for continuously producing nanofiber yarns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Data on equine lumbar pathology hardly exist in breeds other than Thoroughbreds. Objectives: To describe pathological changes of the osseous lumbar vertebral column in Warmblood horses, Shetland ponies and Konik horses. Study design: Descriptive post‐mortem study. Methods: The lumbar vertebral columns of 34 Warmblood horses, 28 Shetland ponies, and 18 Konik horses were examined by computed tomography (CT). Osteoarthritis (OA) of articular processes (APJs), OA of intertransverse joints (ITJs), intervertebral disc (IVD) mineralisation, impingement of spinous (SPs) and transverse (TPs) processes and spondylosis were scored. Breed differences in prevalence and severity of pathologies were analysed by linear regression analysis and by calculating Spearman's rank correlation coefficients (rs). Results: In Warmblood horses, the prevalence of OA of APJs, impingement of SPs and TPs was respectively 90%, 36%, and 35%, significantly higher than in the other breeds (p < 0.001). In Konik horses, IVD mineralisation (40%) and spondylosis (10%) were more frequent than in Warmbloods and Shetland ponies (p = 0.03). Severity score for OA of ITJs was highest in Shetland ponies (p < 0.001). For impingement of SPs, severity score was highest in Warmbloods (p = 0.03), and of TPs lowest in Shetland ponies (p = 0.003). For all parameters, except for spondylosis in Shetland ponies, there was a positive correlation between percentage of vertebrae affected and age, with IVD mineralisation scores increasing faster in Konik horses (p < 0.001). In all breeds, there was also a positive relation between scores of severity and age for OA of APJs and ITJs and for IVD mineralisation, with severity scores increasing faster in Shetland ponies (p = 0.04). Strong left/right correlations of the severity scores were seen for OA of the APJ, ITJ, impingement of TPs, and paramedian spondylosis (rs = 0.74–0.86, all p < 0.001). Main limitations: Clinical histories were not available. Conclusions: There are distinct breed differences between prevalence and severity of osseous pathologies of the lumbar spine. Warmblood horses have higher scores for most pathologies with IVD mineralisation being more important in Konik horses and OA of ITJs in Shetland ponies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tillage operations are consider one of the largest agricultural operations on most Iraqi farms, and soil tillage requires greater power and energy than any other operation. In this review article, will reviewed three types of most common plows used by Iraqi farmers used in primary (conventional) tillage of the soil are moldboard, chisel and disc plows, which differ in their design, shape, method of work and dealing with the soil, for aim and reviewed the various studies to help Iraqi farmers choose the most appropriate plow to plough (till) their fields and achieve the best plowing productivity while reducing fuel consumption, process implementation time, cost of operation tillage, saving the power requirement, maintain healthy soil and increasing productivity yields. Tilling the soil well for prepare the seed bed will produce good plants, which gave a good and healthy yields, and this is the aim of all farmers not only in Iraq, but all over the world. The farmers in southern and middle Iraq, usually used the moldboard plow (which is most popular tillage plow in Iraq) more than chisel and disk plows, while in the northern regions of Iraq, they use the chisel plow in addition to the disc plow. Conclude that choosing the best type of plows depends on the specific requirements that the field needs, therefore, there are some factors that help the farmers to make the right choice which are: the size of the farm or the field; the type of soil, the crop to be grown, residue and depth of the tillage requirement.

Introduction and Objective: Thoracic disc calcification is a radiological finding which may be incidental or diagnosed in patients presenting with myelopathy due to spinal cord compression. We performed a study to analyze the imaging patterns of calcified thoracic discs (CTDs). Patients and Methods: A retrospective review of the spinal and radiology database of a tertiary referral orthopedic hospital was conducted for the incidence of CTDs between 2007 and 2020. Patients’ demographics and radiological findings were recorded. The relationship between disc size, morphology, spinal cord compression, and management was assessed. Results: Fifty-one cases of CTDs were identified. The mean size of CTD was 806.2 mm3 (range: 144–2340). The most common level of disc calcification was T9–T10 (24%) in 12 patients. Thoracic disc calcifications in our series commonly involved disc “protrusion” in 67% (34 patients), followed by “mushroom” type in 31% (16 patients) and “extrusion” in 2% (1 patient). 37% (19 patients) had spinal cord compression with 12% (6 patients) undergoing surgical interventions. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean sizes of CTD between the groups with and without spinal cord compression (P = 0.566, independent sample t-test). Patients with “mushroom” type calcification were more likely to have surgical intervention (P = 0.01, Fisher’s exact test). Conclusion: Thoracic disc calcifications, while common, can still be underdiagnosed till late myelopathic deterioration. Care of the elderly physicians, spinal surgeons, and radiologists need to be aware of them to guide diagnosis and management. Our study demonstrates that disc morphology plays a vital role in myelopathic presentation and therefore determines the need for surgical intervention instead of the absolute size of disc calcification.

Calcified lumbar disc herniations (CLDH) causing calcified ventral stenosis pose a therapeutic challenge to the treating surgeon due to their neural adhesions, location, and hardness. This retrospective study analyzed all the cases of CLDH/calcified ventral stenosis managed by transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. The preoperative images were analyzed for the level, migration; and grade (Lee's migration zones), and location (Michigan State University classification). Detailed surgical technique and intraoperative parameters including the duration of surgery and complications have been recorded. The clinical parameters including visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), length of stay in hospital, days of return to basic work, and patient satisfaction index were analyzed. Postoperatively the images were analyzed for the adequacy of decompression. The mean VAS for back pain and leg pain was 4.7 ± 2.6 (0–9), and 7.45 ± 2.2 (1–10), respectively. The mean preoperative ODI was 78.2 ± 13.2 (63.2–95.6). Nineteen patients (24%) had neurological deficits preoperatively. The mean duration of surgery was 90.5 ± 15.8 (58–131) minutes. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging revealed adequate decompression in 97.5% (n = 77). The mean duration of hospital stay was 1.05 ± 0.22 (1–2) days, and the postoperative back and leg pain VAS was 1.14 ± 1.2 (0–3) (P < 0.05) and 1.7 ± 0.5 (0–6) (P < 0.05), respectively. The ODI at final follow-up was 6.5 ± 3.7 (2.2–18) (P < 0.05). Neurological recovery occurred in 17 (89.5%) patients and they returned to basic work/jobs in 19.5 ± 3.3 (14–26) days. The mean patient satisfaction index was 1.18 ± 0.47 (1–2) at a mean follow-up of 5.52 ± 2.91 (2–12.75) years. Transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy is a complete, safe, and efficacious procedure in patients with CLDH with earlier recovery considering the surgery is performed with the patient being awake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Affiliating with delinquent peers may stimulate the development of antisocial behavior, especially for adolescents who are sensitive to social rewards. The current study examines whether the association between delinquent peer affiliation (DPA) and disruptive behavior interacts with functional brain correlates of reward sensitivity in early onset male adolescents delinquents. Methods: Childhood arrestees (n = 126, mean age = 17.7 [s.d. 1.6]) completed a DPA questionnaire, and participated in an fMRI study in which reward sensitivity was operationalized through responsiveness of the ventral striatum (VS), amygdala, and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) during the monetary incentive delay paradigm (reward anticipation and outcome). Symptoms of disruptive behavior disorders (DBD) were assessed through structured psychiatric interviews (Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children) with adolescents. Results: DPA had a main effect on DBD symptoms. Adolescents with high VS reward responses showed a stronger significant positive association between DPA and DBD symptoms compared to low VS responders. No evidence for an interaction effect was found for the amygdala and mPFC. Post-hoc analyses revealed the positive association between DPA and DBD was only present in males, with a diminishing effect as age increased. Conclusions: We found evidence for a biosocial interaction between DPA and reward sensitivity of the VS in relation to DBD symptom severity. This study provides the first evidence of an interaction effect between a brain mechanism and an environmental factor in relation to DBD symptoms, implying that susceptibility to influences of delinquent peers may intertwine with individual biological differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Kirkuk University for Agricultural Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) 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.)

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]

Introduction and Objective: Thoracic disc calcification is a radiological finding which may be incidental or diagnosed in patients presenting with myelopathy due to spinal cord compression. We performed a study to analyze the imaging patterns of calcified thoracic discs (CTDs). Patients and Methods: A retrospective review of the spinal and radiology database of a tertiary referral orthopedic hospital was conducted for the incidence of CTDs between 2007 and 2020. Patients' demographics and radiological findings were recorded. The relationship between disc size, morphology, spinal cord compression, and management was assessed. Results: Fifty-one cases of CTDs were identified. The mean size of CTD was 806.2 mm3 (range: 144-2340). The most common level of disc calcification was T9-T10 (24%) in 12 patients. Thoracic disc calcifications in our series commonly involved disc "protrusion" in 67% (34 patients), followed by "mushroom" type in 31% (16 patients) and "extrusion" in 2% (1 patient). 37% (19 patients) had spinal cord compression with 12% (6 patients) undergoing surgical interventions. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean sizes of CTD between the groups with and without spinal cord compression (P = 0.566, independent sample t-test). Patients with "mushroom" type calcification were more likely to have surgical intervention (P = 0.01, Fisher's exact test). Conclusion: Thoracic disc calcifications, while common, can still be underdiagnosed till late myelopathic deterioration. Care of the elderly physicians, spinal surgeons, and radiologists need to be aware of them to guide diagnosis and management. Our study demonstrates that disc morphology plays a vital role in myelopathic presentation and therefore determines the need for surgical intervention instead of the absolute size of disc calcification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study design: Cross-sectional retrospective observational study. Objective: To evaluate the reliability and clinical utility of the Modic changes (MC) grading score. Method: Patients from the Danish national spine registry, DaneSpine, scheduled for lumbar discectomy were identified. MRI of patients with MC were graded based on vertical height involvement: Grade A (<25%), Grade B (25%-50%), and Grade C (>50%). All MRIs were reviewed by 2 physicians to evaluate the reliability of the MC grade. Results: Of 213 patients included, 142 patients had MC, 71 with MC-1 and 71 with MC-2; 34% were Grade A, 45% were Grade B, and 21% were Grade C. MC grade demonstrated substantial intra-rater (κ =.68) and inter-rater (κ =.61) reliability. A significantly higher proportion (n = 40, 57%) of patients with MC-1 had a severe MC grade compared to patients with MC-2 (n = 30, 43%, P <.001). Severe MC grade was associated with the presence of severe lumbar disc degeneration (DD) (Pfirrmann grade = V, P =.024), worse preoperative ODI (52.49 vs 44.17, P =.021) and EQ-5D scores (.26 vs.46, P =.053). MC alone including type was not associated with a significant difference in patient-reported outcomes (P >.05). Conclusion: The MC grade score was demonstrated to have substantial intra- and inter-observer reliability. Severe MC grade was associated with both severe DD and MC type, being more prevalent in patients with MC-1. The MC grade was also significantly associated with worse disability and reduced health-related quality of life. Results from the study suggest that MC grade is more clinically important than MC type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Xi'an Jiaotong University is the property of Editorial Office of Journal of Xi'an Jiaotong University 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.)

Background: HtrA2, a pro-apoptotic protease, plays a crucial role in apoptosis by cleaving inhibitory and anti-apoptotic proteins by translocating from mitochondria to the cytosol. Prior studies in ischemic cells have indicated that cytosolic HtrA2 triggers cFLIP degradation, plausibly through direct interaction. In this study, we have characterized the cFLIP protein, validated its interaction with HtrA2, and demonstrated that cFLIP is also a substrate of HtrA2. Methods: We have identified the probable cleavage sites of cFLIP through gel-based assays and mass spectrometric analysis of the cleaved fragments. Results: Our findings shed light on a key protein-protein interaction involving pro-apoptotic HtrA2, confirming cFLIP as its interacting partner and substrate. Conclusion: Understanding the nuances of HtrA2's interaction with cFLIP (a decoy protein of the initiator procaspase-8 in the extrinsic apoptotic pathway) and deciphering the cFLIP's mode of cleavage, would provide an excellent alternative to modulate the pathway for therapeutic benefits toward diseases like ischemia and cancer.

Morgan P Lorio,1 Jordan Lee Tate,2 Thomas J Myers,3 Jon E Block,4 Douglas P Beall5 1Advanced Orthopedics, Altamonte Springs, FL, USA; 2Southern Pain and Spine Associates, Jasper, GA, USA; 3Paradigm Health System, Slidell, LA, USA; 4Private Practice, San Francisco, CA, USA; 5Comprehensive Specialty Care, Edmond, OK, USACorrespondence: Jon E Block, Private Practice, 2210 Jackson Street, Ste. 401, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA, Tel +1(415) 775-7947, Email jb@drjonblock.comAbstract: Specific clinical diagnostic criteria have established a consensus for defining patients with lumbar discogenic pain. However, if conservative medical management fails, these patients have few treatment options short of surgery involving discectomy often coupled with fusion or arthroplasty. There is a rapidly-emerging research effort to fill this treatment gap with intradiscal therapies that can be delivered minimally-invasively via fluoroscopically guided injection without altering the normal anatomy of the affected vertebral motion segment. Viable candidate products to date have included mesenchymal stromal cells, platelet-rich plasma, nucleus pulposus structural allograft, and other cell-based compositions. The objective of these products is to repair, supplement, and restore the damaged intervertebral disc as well as retard further degeneration. In doing so, the intervention is meant to eliminate the source of discogenic pain and avoid surgery. Methodologically rigorous studies are rare, however, and based on the best clinical evidence, the safety as well as the magnitude and duration of clinical efficacy remain difficult to estimate. Further, we summarize the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) guidance regarding the interpretation of the minimal manipulation and homologous use criteria, which is central to designating these products as a tissue or as a drug/device/biologic. We also provide perspectives on the core evidence and knowledge gaps associated with intradiscal therapies, propose imperatives for evaluating effectiveness of these treatments and highlight several new technologies on the horizon.Keywords: degenerative, disc, intradiscal, autologous, allogeneic, injection, regenerative, discogenic, pain

Salt glaze is one of the distinctive glazes with its special aesthetic effects, and the researcher has done a number of researches to obtain salt glaze with its various effects by traditional methods first and then by non-traditional methods secondly, and that was in several previous studies, and the fire was done in the traditional kiln to fire sewage pipes, to obtain Salt glaze in traditional ways, then fire in the tunnel kiln, then fire in the rolls kiln (fast firing), and the previous study was about the possibility of obtaining the effects of salt glaze on ceramic tiles by application methods different from the traditional known methods, and this was done by more than one method. For application, but in the laboratory and not on production lines, and given the importance of the method of application of salt on ceramic tiles to obtain the effects of salt glaze because the resulting salt effects differ according to the method of salt application, so the study completed the topic of applying salt on ceramic tiles, and this study deals with how to produce ceramic tiles with salt glazing by industrial methods of production and application, and an attempt to solve its problems on the production line. Therefore, in this research, the same methods of application are used on the production line. Production lines such as silkscreen printing of dry milled salt, but due to the tendency of table salt (NaCl) to become saturated with moisture in the air, after a short time, salt hydration and agglomeration occur, so another method of application was tried, which is grinding salt with water in certain proportions until we reach to a density suitable for spraying (as an emulsion), which is a method corresponding to the method of application by disc on the production line, as well as applying the same emulsion with increasing water percentages to adjust the density to be suitable for application by silkscreen printing. decoration), and each of them had a special aesthetic character and special results as a result of the different temperatures, the time of the fire cycle and the different method of application.

Piezoelectric-based sensors are used as well as optical sensors for homogeneous sowing of seeds in the fields and for calculating the grain loss rate in harvesting and cleaning with harvesters in agricultural production. In this study, a piezoelectric-based sensor design has been developed that can measure properties such as size and weight during the storage of grains in silos in addition to these applications. Two different impact sensors using piezoelectric disks and piezoelectric ceramic elements were designed. Impact experiments were performed with chickpea grains in three different weight and size classes, and the energies of the electrical signals generated by the piezo elements because of the impact were calculated. This energy data was used in the training of ten various classification algorithms and their prediction success was calculated. While the highest classification accuracy for sensor data using piezo disk elements was obtained with the neural network algorithm with 92%, the highest classification accuracy for sensor data using piezo ceramic elements was obtained with the neural network and adaptive boosting algorithms with 68%. These data show that the sensor design using piezo disk elements could be used to measure the weights of grains such as chickpea during storage in silos.

The mechanisms of CD95 (Fas/APO-1)-mediated extrinsic apoptotic pathway in cancer cells have been extensively studied. The majority of human cells express CD95, but not all these cells can induce extrinsic apoptosis. Accumulating evidence has shown that CD95 is a multifunctional protein, and its stimulation can also elicit non-apoptotic or even survival signals. It has become clear that under certain cellular contexts, due to the various checkpoints, CD95 activation can trigger both apoptotic and non-apoptotic signals. The crosstalk of death and survival signals may occur at different levels of signal transduction. The strength of the CD95 stimulation, initial levels of anti-apoptotic proteins, and posttranslational modifications of the core DISC components have been proposed to be the most important factors in the life/death decisions at CD95. Successful therapeutic targeting of CD95 signaling pathways will require a better understanding of the crosstalk between CD95-induced apoptotic and cell survival pathways. In this review, in order to gain a systematic understanding of the crosstalk between CD95-mediated apoptosis and non-apoptotic signaling, we will discuss these issues in a step-by-step way.

Study Design. A prospective, anatomical imaging study of healthy volunteer subjects in accurate surgical positions. Objective. To establish if there is a change in the position of the abdominal contents in the lateral decubitus (LD) versus prone position. Summary of background data. Lateral transpsoas lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) in the LD position has been validated anatomically and for procedural safety, specifically in relation to visceral risks. Recently, LLIF with the patient in the prone position has been suggested as an alternative to LLIF in the LD position. Materials and Methods. Subjects underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbosacral region in the right LD position with the hips flexed and the prone position with the legs extended. Anatomical measurements were performed on axial magnetic resonance images at the L4-5 disc space. Results. Thirty-four subjects were included. The distance from the skin to the lateral disc surface was 134.9 mm in prone compared with 118.7 mm in LD (P< 0.0001). The distance between the posterior aspect of the disc and the colon was 20.3 mm in the prone compared with 41.1 mm in LD (P<0.0001). The colon migrated more posteriorly in relation to the anterior margin of the psoas in the prone compared with LD (21.7 vs. 5.5 mm, respectively; P<0.0001). 100% of subjects had posterior migration of the colon in the prone compared with the LD position, as measured by the distance from the quadratum lumborum to the colon (44.4 vs. 20.5 mm, respectively; P<0.001). Conclusion. There were profound changes in the position of visceral structures between the prone and LD patient positions in relation to the LLIF approach corridor. Compared with LD LLIF, the prone position results in a longer surgical corridor with a substantially smaller working window free of the colon, as evidenced by the significant and uniform posterior migration of the colon. Surgeons should be aware of the potential for increased visceral risks when performing LLIF in the prone position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We performed a prospective one-year multi-imaging study to assess the clinical outcomes and rate of disc resorption in acute lumbar disc herniation (LDH) patients undergoing inflammation-preserving treatment (i.e. no NSAIDS, steroids). Methods: All patients received gabapentin to relieve leg pain, 12 sessions of acupuncture. Repeat MRI was performed, every 3 months, after 12 sessions of treatment continued for those without 40% reduction in herniated disc sagittal area. Disc herniations sizes were measured on sagittal T2W MRI sequences, pre-treatment and at post-treatment intervals. Patients were stratified to fast, medium, slow, and prolonged recovery groups in relation to symptom resolution and disc resorption. Results: Ninety patients (51% females; mean age: 48.6 years) were assessed. Mean size of disc herniation was 119.54 ± 54.34 mm2, and the mean VAS-Leg score was 6.12 ± 1.13 at initial presentation. A total of 19 patients (21.1%) improved at the time of the repeat MRI (i.e. within first 3 months post-treatment). 100% of all patient had LDH resorption within one year (mean: 4.4. months). There was no significant difference at baseline LDH between fast, medium, slow, and prolonged resorption groups. Initial LDH size was weakly associated with degree of leg pain at baseline and initial gabapentin levels. Surgery was avoided in all cases. Conclusion: This is the first study to note inflammation-preserving treatment, without conventional anti-inflammatory and steroid medications, as safe and effective for patients with an acute LDH. Rate of disc resorption (100%) was higher than comparative recent meta-analysis findings (66.7%) and no patient underwent surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The time-dependent creep behavior of a rotating disc composed of functionally graded material (FGM) with varying thickness was analyzed. The convection heat transfer along with internal heat generation was considered in thermoelastic analysis. The material properties were assumed to change radially as a power-law function. Also, the heat convection and heat conduction coefficients were taken as functions of temperature and radius. The nonlinear heat transfer equation was solved using the differential transformation method (DTM). Then, the equilibrium equation considering creep strains was derived. The derived differential equation was solved analytically for zero time. Considering the creep strains, the stress and strain rates were determined using Norton's law with Prandtl–Reuss equations for steady-state thermal boundary conditions. Finally, the time-dependent creep stress redistributions at any time were evaluated using an iterative method. The effects of the heat source, convection heat transfer, temperature dependency, inhomogeneity index, and angular velocity on the behavior of the disc were explored in numerical examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Implant subsidence is recognized as a complication of interbody stabilization, although its relevance remains ambiguous, particularly in terms of relating the effect of the position and depth of subsidence on the clinical outcome of the procedure. This study aimed to evaluate how implant positioning and size influence the incidence and degree of subsidence and to examine their implications for clinical outcomes. Methods: An observational study of 94 patients (157 levels) who underwent ACDF was conducted. Radiological parameters (implant position, implant height, vertebral body height, segmental height and intervertebral height) were assessed. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Neck Disability Index (NDI). Subsidence was evaluated in groups according to its degree, and statistical analyses were performed. Results: The findings revealed that implant-to-endplate ratio and implant height were significant risk factors associated with the incidence and degree of subsidence. The incidence of subsidence varied as follows: 34 cases (41.5%) exhibited displacement of the implant into the adjacent endplate by 2–3 mm, 32 cases (39%) by 3–4 mm, 16 cases (19.5%) by ≥4 mm and 75 (47.8%) cases exhibited no subsidence. Conclusions: The findings underscore that oversized or undersized implants relative to the disc space or endplate length elevate the risk and severity of subsidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study deals with the normalisation of Hamiltonian for the nonlinear stability analysis in non-resonance case of the triangular equilibrium points in the perturbed restricted three-body problem with perturbation factors as radiation pressure due to first oblate-radiating primary, albedo from second oblate primary, oblateness and a disc. The problem is formulated with these perturbations and Hamiltonian of the problem is normalised up to fourth order by Lie transform technique consequently a Birkhoff's normal form of the Hamiltonian is obtained. The Arnold–Moser theorem is verified for the nonlinear stability test of the triangular equilibrium points in non-resonance case with the assumed perturbations. It is found that in the presence of radiation pressure, stability range expanded, significantly with respect to the classical range of stability; however, because of albedo, oblateness and the disc, it contracted gradually. Moreover, it is observed that alike to the classical problem, in the perturbed problem under the impact of the assumed perturbations, there always exist one or more values of the mass ratio μ within the stability range at which discriminant D 4 = 0 , which means the triangular equilibrium points are unstable in nonlinear sense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to analyze the differences in morphological and histological features of the cervical multifidus (CM) and longus colli (LC) muscles among patients with cervical disc bulging, protrusion, or extrusion. Fifteen patients with cervical disc bulging (20% male, mean age: 48.5, standard deviation (SD) 7.5 years), fifteen with cervical disc protrusion (6% male, mean age: 43, SD 7.8 years), and fifteen with cervical disc extrusion (40% male, mean age: 44, SD 8 years) diagnosed via clinical and imaging findings participated in this study. Additionally, fifteen asymptomatic controls (40% male, mean age: 40.4, SD 9.7 years) were also included. The following ultrasound measurements, cross-sectional area (CSA), anterior–posterior distance (APD), lateral dimension (LD), and mean echo-intensity (EI) of the CM and LC at C5-C6 level were examined by an assessor blinded to the subject's condition. The results revealed no group ×side significant differences among the groups (p > 0. 00625). However, group effects were found for APD and MEI of the CM (p = 0.006 and p < 0.001, respectively) and CSA, APD and MEI of the LC (all, p < 0.001). The LD of the LC muscle and the APD and LD of the CM were negatively associated with related disability (p < 0.01; p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively), and pain intensity was negatively associated with LC APD and LD (both p < 0.05). These results suggest that US can be used to detect bilateral morphological changes in deep cervical flexors and extensors to discriminate patients with cervical disc alterations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particulate Matter (PM) air pollution has been linked to major adverse health effects. Road transport still contributes significantly to ambient PM concentrations, but mainly due to the non-exhaust emissions from vehicles. For the first time worldwide, limits for non-exhaust emissions have been proposed by the European Union for the upcoming Euro 7 step. For these reasons, interest in brake emissions has increased in the past few years. Realistic emission factors are necessary to accurately calculate the contribution of brake emissions to air pollution but also to estimate the emissions reduction potential of new or existing technologies and improved brake formulations. This paper reviews emission factors from light-duty vehicles reported in the literature, with a focus on those that followed the recently introduced Global Technical Regulation (GTR 24) methodology on brakes in light-duty vehicles. Reduction efficiencies of non-asbestos organic (NAO) pads, brake dust filters, ceramic discs, coated discs, and regenerative braking are also discussed. Finally, the emission factors are compared with roadside measurements of brake emissions and emission inventories worldwide. The findings of this study can be used as an input in emission inventories to estimate the contribution of brakes to air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The effectiveness and safety of intraosseous basivertebral nerve ablation (BVNA) for treating vertebrogenic pain is established, but low back pain-related healthcare utilization (LBPr-HU) following BVNA continues to be defined. Methods LBPr-HU data were pooled from 3 prospective studies. LBPr-HU categories of interest included non-invasive conservative care, opioid utilization, lumbosacral spinal injection (LSI), lumbosacral radiofrequency ablation (LRFA), and lumbosacral spinal surgery. Pre- and post-BVNA LBPr-HU were compared at both 1- and 5-years using McNemar's test for proportions and paired t-tests for means. Results Two hundred forty-seven patients received BVNA and had 1-year follow-up; 205 had long-term follow-up (mean of 5.3 ± 1.33 years). Twenty-seven percent fewer participants initiated conservative care in the year post-BVNA compared to the year preceding BVNA (P  < .001; 95% CI 19.8–34.5). Of 77/247 participants taking opioids at baseline, 40.3% and 61.7% fewer were taking them at one-year and 5.3 ± 1.33 years post-BVNA, respectively (P  < .001). Of participants receiving LSIs in the year preceding BVNA, 81.2% fewer received LSI(s) in the year post-BVNA (P  < .001; 95% CI 70.7–90.7); a 76.4% reduction in LSIs was maintained through a mean of 5.3 ± 1.33 years post-BVNA. LRFA rates were 1.6% at 1-year post-BVNA and 8.3% at 5.3 ± 1.33 years post-BVNA. Lumbar fusion surgery was 0.8% at 1-year post-BVNA and 6.5% at 5.3 ± 1.33 years post-BVNA. Conclusions In this aggregate analysis of patients with vertebrogenic pain, utilization of conservative care, opioids, LSIs, and LRFA were substantially reduced through 5 years post-BVNA compared to baseline. Lumbar fusion rates were less than half the published value at 5 years in similar populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background To compare axial elongation in 8–11-year-old myopes wearing orthokeratology (OK) lenses with different back optic zone diameters (BOZD), defocus incorporated soft contact (DISC) lenses, and single-vision soft contact lenses (SCLs). Methods A total of 122 children (aged 8–11 years) with spherical equivalent refraction (SER) between − 1.00 D and − 4.00 D were enrolled in this prospective study and randomly assigned to four groups: 5.0 mm-BOZD OK, 6.2 mm-BOZD OK, DISC, and single-vision SCLs. Children in each group were further divided into subgroups stratified by the average baseline SER: low myopic eyes (SER: − 1.00 D to − 2.50 D) and moderate myopic eyes (SER: − 2.50 D and over). Axial length (AL) was measured at baseline and after one year. Results The 5.0 mm-BOZD OK, 6.2 mm-BOZD OK, and DISC groups exhibited significantly slower AL elongation than the SCL group. The proportion of slow progressors (AL elongation ≤ 0.18 mm/year) in the first three groups was 42%, 23%, and 29%, respectively. Furthermore, one-year AL elongation was significantly smaller in the 5.0 mm-BOZD OK group compared with the 6.2 mm-BOZD OK group. Regardless of SER, children in the 5.0 mm-BOZD OK and DISC groups showed comparably slower AL elongation than those in the SCL group. However, fitting with 6.2 mm-BOZD OK lenses significantly retarded AL elongation in moderate myopic eyes, but not in low myopic eyes. Conclusions Overall, 5.0 mm-BOZD OK lenses, 6.2 mm-BOZD OK lenses, and DISC lenses were effective in retarding AL elongation in 8–11-year-old myopes compared with single-vision SCLs, but for children with SER less than − 2.50 D, fitting with 5.0 mm-BOZD OK lenses and DISC lenses yielded better myopia control efficacy compared to wearing single-vision SCLs or 6.2 mm-BOZD OK lenses.

Abstract Background Limited recent data exists regarding discospondylitis in dogs. Hypothesis/Objectives (i) Describe the signalment, clinical and imaging findings, etiologic agents, treatment, and outcome of dogs with discospondylitis, (ii) determine diagnostic agreement between radiographs, CT, and MRI with regard to the presence of discospondylitis and its location, and (iii) determine risk factors for relapse and progressive neurological deterioration. Animals Three hundred eighty‐six dogs. Methods Multi‐institutional retrospective study. Data extracted from medical records were: signalment, clinical and examination findings, diagnostic results, treatments, complications, and outcome. Potential risk factors were recorded. Breed distribution was compared to a control group. Agreement between imaging modalities was assessed via Cohen's kappa statistic. Other analyses were performed on categorical data, using cross tabulations with chi‐squared and Fisher's exact tests. Results Male dogs were overrepresented (236/386 dogs). L7‐S1 (97/386 dogs) was the most common site. Staphylococcus species (23/38 positive blood cultures) were prevalent. There was a fair agreement (κ = 0.22) between radiographs and CT, but a poor agreement (κ = 0.05) between radiographs and MRI with regard to evidence of discospondylitis. There was good agreement between imaging modalities regarding location of disease. Trauma was associated with an increased risk of relapse (P = .01, OR: 9.0, 95% CI: 2.2‐37.0). Prior steroid therapy was associated with an increased risk of progressive neurological dysfunction (P = .04, OR: 4.7, 95% CI: 1.2‐18.6). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Radiograph and MRI results could be discrepant in dogs with discospondylitis. Prior trauma and corticosteroids could be associated with relapse and progressive neurological dysfunction, respectively.

This review provides a detailed description of the imaging features of cervical spondylotic myelopathy and radiculopathy, with a focus on MRI. Where relevant, we will outline grading systems of vertebral central canal and foraminal stenosis. Whilst post-operative appearances of the cervical spine are outside the scope of this paper, we will touch on imaging features recognised as predictors of clinical outcome and neurological recovery. This paper will serve as a reference for both radiologists and clinicians involved in the care of patients with cervical spondylotic myeloradiculopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urartians ruled over the regions mainly around three lakes of Van, Sevan and Urmia from about 9th to 7th centuries BC and several metal artefacts are discovered less in situ in the Urartian sites. Among them are bronze discs which are slightly convex or convex in the middle. There is a newly found convex in the middle disc of Argišti I from Qala Dağı, Kiqal Varzaqan, Iran which is similar to the disc in Tabriz Museum also from Varzaqan in the inscription and to the disc in Van Museum in the form. There also is a hieroglyphic sign over the disc which was common on the other discs. The epigraphy of the cuneiform inscription on the mentioned disc was used widely in the Urartian kingdom since Minua’s reign until Sarduri II’s. It is the aim of this paper to introduce this newly discovered artifact and to review the function and forms of the discs which could be used as horse harness or buttons of the armors or clothing. Additionally, the authors try to compare the discs of Argišti I in the epigraphy and form. The authors recognized that the epigraphy of Minua’s reign to Sarduri II’s were also used on the discs inscribed with the name of King Išpuini, Minua’s father, and Inušpua, Minua’s son who never ruled. Therefore, it is possible that the newly found disc is not inscribed during Argišti I’s reign but his son Sarduri’s but as most of the discovered discs bear the name of Argišti it is possible that there was a mass production of the discs during his reign and was brought to Eastern Azerbaijan Province after his reign.

The articles considers calculation of deflections of discs of energy conversion machines based on the principles of the elasticity theory of circular plates using the initial parameter method. It is proposed to replace axial restraint with radial restraint. The basic equations for calculating disc deflections are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Limited recent data exists regarding discospondylitis in dogs. Hypothesis/Objectives: (i) Describe the signalment, clinical and imaging findings, etiologic agents, treatment, and outcome of dogs with discospondylitis, (ii) determine diagnostic agreement between radiographs, CT, and MRI with regard to the presence of discospondylitis and its location, and (iii) determine risk factors for relapse and progressive neurological deterioration. Animals: Three hundred eighty‐six dogs. Methods: Multi‐institutional retrospective study. Data extracted from medical records were: signalment, clinical and examination findings, diagnostic results, treatments, complications, and outcome. Potential risk factors were recorded. Breed distribution was compared to a control group. Agreement between imaging modalities was assessed via Cohen's kappa statistic. Other analyses were performed on categorical data, using cross tabulations with chi‐squared and Fisher's exact tests. Results: Male dogs were overrepresented (236/386 dogs). L7‐S1 (97/386 dogs) was the most common site. Staphylococcus species (23/38 positive blood cultures) were prevalent. There was a fair agreement (κ = 0.22) between radiographs and CT, but a poor agreement (κ = 0.05) between radiographs and MRI with regard to evidence of discospondylitis. There was good agreement between imaging modalities regarding location of disease. Trauma was associated with an increased risk of relapse (P =.01, OR: 9.0, 95% CI: 2.2‐37.0). Prior steroid therapy was associated with an increased risk of progressive neurological dysfunction (P =.04, OR: 4.7, 95% CI: 1.2‐18.6). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Radiograph and MRI results could be discrepant in dogs with discospondylitis. Prior trauma and corticosteroids could be associated with relapse and progressive neurological dysfunction, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Study design Prospective study Background Vertebral and intervertebral disc (IVD) wedging are often seen in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). However, the relationship between wedging and curve progression, and the change of wedging before bracing to final weaning is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the pattern and sequence of vertebral and IVD wedging development, and to determine the relationship between the change of wedging and curve progression in AIS during growth. Methods This was a prospective study of 32 AIS females with right-sided thoracic curves and/or left-sided lumbar curves who completed brace treatment. They were classified into progression and non-progression groups. Vertebral and IVD wedging were calculated for each spinal segment. The wedging pattern was first identified and then used to determine the sequence of wedging development. Percentage change in the sum of wedging during growth was calculated and compared. Results The sum of vertebral wedging for both groups was 2.4° to 8.7° more than that of IVD wedging in the thoracic spine but 8.7° to 17.7° less in the lumbar spine. Out of the 20 curves assessed, 5 thoracic curves and 1 lumbar curve developed vertebral wedging before IVD wedging, and 3 thoracic curves and 4 lumbar curves had the opposite pattern. The progression group had larger increases in sum of vertebral (40%) and IVD (28.6%) wedging as compared to the non-progression group (both 16.7%). A significant difference in wedging between the first and the latest visits was found in the progression group only (p

Key Clinical Message: MRI remains the best tool in the diagnosis of this disease entity however preoperative diagnosis remains a difficult task. A high degree of suspicion is raised when intraoperative findings and preoperative image description become incompatible. Lumbar disc herniation into the dural space is a rare phenomenon of lumbar disc degeneration with an unclear remaining pathogenesis. Intraoperative ultrasonography and histopathological examination of resected specimen help in the diagnosis of intradural disc herniation. Prompt surgery is recommended due to the high incidence of cauda equina syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the vibration response of an elastic disc that is harmonically excited by a piezoelectric disc in an ultrasonic sensor structure. The ultrasonic sensor comprised an elastic disc combined with a cylindrical wall and attached to a small piezoelectric disc. The vibration response must be maximized by selecting the radius ratio and thickness ratio of the piezoelectric and elastic discs. Vibration distribution is necessary for analyzing the acoustic characteristics of ultrasound radiating from an ultrasonic sensor for distance measurement. The response equation for an elastic disc with a fixed boundary was theoretically obtained by considering the harmonic excitation of the piezoelectric disc. The vibration response distribution of the elastic disc coupled with a cylindrical wall was analyzed using finite elements to enhance the theoretical result. Experiments were performed to confirm the response distribution by exciting a piezoelectric disc in an enlarged specimen of an ultrasonic sensor structure. At the first natural frequency, the radius ratio of the maximum amplitude was 0.61, and the thickness ratio of the maximum amplitude approached zero. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]