Generation mechanism and empirical model of eddy current force and torque in drum-type eddy current separation.

Enhancing the recovery efficiency of non-ferrous metals in eddy current separation is of great significance. In this study, the accuracy of the simulation model was verified by comparing the eddy current force. The transformation mechanism of the Lorentz forces into the eddy current force and torque in non-ferrous metal particles was revealed by analyzing various physical fields. Then, the influence of magnetic field parameters on eddy current, eddy current force, and torque was studied. It shows that the eddy current force and torque are affected by the vector gradient of the magnetic field and the magnetic flux density, respectively. Additionally, the time derivative of the magnetic field impacts the magnitude of the eddy current force and torque by controlling the eddy current. On this basis, the empirical models of eddy current force and torque were established by similarity theory. The results obtained can improve and expand the application of eddy current separation.

Polyurethane reinforced with micro/nano waste slag as a shielding panel for photons (experimental and theoretical study).

This study not only provides an innovative technique for producing rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF) composites, but it also offers a way to reuse metallurgical solid waste. Rigid polyurethane (RPUF) composite samples have been prepared with different proportions of iron slag as additives, with a range of 0-25% mass by weight. The process of grinding iron slag microparticles into iron slag nanoparticles powder was accomplished with the use of a high-energy ball mill. The synthesized samples have been characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscope. Then, their radiation shielding properties were measured by using A hyper-pure germanium detector using point sources 241Am, 133 BA, 152 EU, 137Cs, and 60Co, with an energy range of 0.059-1.408 MeV. Then using Fluka simulation code to validate the results in the energy range of photon energies of 0.0001-100 MeV. The linear attenuation coefficient, mass attenuation coefficient, mean free path, half-value layer and tenth-value layer, were calculated to determine the radiation shielding characteristics of the composite samples. The calculated values are in good agreement with the calculated values. The results of this study showed that the gamma-ray and neutron attenuation parameters of the studied polyurethane composite samples have improved. Moreover, the effect of iron slag not only increases the gamma-ray attenuation shielding properties but also enhances compressive strength and the thermal stability. Which encourages us to use polyurethane iron-slag composite foam in sandwich panel manufacturing as walls to provide protection from radiation and also heat insulation.

Influence of different position modal parameters on milling chatter stability of orthopedic surgery robots.

This research is dedicated to exploring the dynamics of milling chatter stability in orthopedic surgery robots, focusing on the impact of position modal parameters on chatter stability. Initially, we develop a dynamic milling force model for the robotic milling process that integrates both modal coupling and regenerative effects. We then employ the zero-order frequency domain method to derive a chatter stability domain model, visually represented through stability lobe diagrams (SLDs). Through conducting hammer test experiments, we ascertain the robot's modal parameters at varying positions, enabling the precise generation of SLDs. This study also includes experimental validation of the chatter SLD analysis method, laying the groundwork for further examination of chatter stability across different positional modal parameters. Finally, our analysis of the variations in modal parameters on the stability of robot milling chatter yields a theoretical framework for optimizing cutting parameters and developing control strategies within the context of orthopedic surgery robots.

Investigation of the solubility and thermodynamics of salicylic acid in 2-propanol and ethylene glycol/propylene glycol binary solvent mixtures at (293.15 to 313.15) K.

This study aimed to measure both the solubility and thermodynamics of salicylic acid in binary solvent mixtures of (2-propanol + ethylene glycol) and (2-propanol + propylene glycol) at different temperatures in the range of 293.2-313.2 K. The experimental solubility data were analyzed using various linear and nonlinear cosolvency models, such as the van'tt Hoff, Jouyban-Acree, Jouyban-Acree-van'tt Hoff, mixture response surface and modified Wilson models and to evaluate the models, the mean relative deviations of the back-calculated solubility data were compared with experimental values. Through this analysis, the apparent thermodynamic parameters, including Gibbs energy, enthalpy, and entropy were calculated using the van'tt Hoff and Gibbs equations for this system. Additionally, the density values for salicylic acid saturated mixtures were also measured and represent mathematically using the Jouyban-Acree model.

The unique association between the level of plateletcrit and the prevalence of diabetic kidney disease: a cross-sectional study.

Objective: The activation of platelets in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) triggers inflammation and hemodynamic abnormalities, contributing to the development of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Despite this, research into the relationship between plateletcrit (PCT) levels and DKD is sparse, with inconsistent conclusions drawn regarding the connection between various platelet parameters and DKD. This highlights the necessity for comprehensive, large-scale population studies. Therefore, our objective is to explore the association between PCT levels and various platelet parameters in relation to DKD. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, hematological parameter data were collected from a cohort of 4,302 hospitalized Chinese patients. We analyzed the relationships between PCT, platelet count (PLT), mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), platelet large cell ratio (P-LCR), and DKD, along with the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was conducted to evaluate the diagnostic potential of these parameters. Results: DKD patients exhibited significantly higher PCT levels compared to those without DKD. Multivariate regression analysis identified elevated PCT and PLT levels as potential independent risk factors for both DKD and UACR, while lower MPV levels might serve as independent protective factors for eGFR. The areas under the ROC curve for PCT in relation to DKD and UACR (≥30 mg/g) were 0.523 and 0.526, respectively. The area under the ROC curve for PLT in relation to UACR (≥30 mg/g) was 0.523. Conclusion: PCT demonstrates a weak diagnostic value for T2DM patients at risk of developing DKD and experiencing proteinuria, and PLT shows a similarly modest diagnostic utility for detecting proteinuria. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics involved in DKD. Additionally, incorporating these markers into routine clinical assessments could enhance risk stratification, facilitating early interventions and personalized management strategies.

A three-dimensional algorithm for precise measurement of human auricle parameters.

Measurement of auricle parameters for planning and post-operative evaluation presents substantial challenges due to the complex 3D structure of the human auricle. Traditional measurement methods rely on manual techniques, resulting in limited precision. This study introduces a novel automated surface-based three-dimensional measurement method for quantifying human auricle parameters. The method was applied to virtual auricles reconstructed from Computed Tomography (CT) scans of a cadaver head and subsequent measurement of important clinically relevant aesthetical auricular parameters (length, width, protrusion, position, auriculocephalic angle, and inclination angle). Reference measurements were done manually (using a caliper and using a 3D landmarking method) and measurement precision was compared to the automated method. The CT scans were performed using both a contemporary high-end and a low-end CT scanner. Scans were conducted at a standard scanning dose, and at half the dose. The automatic method demonstrated significantly higher precision in measuring auricle parameters compared to manual methods. Compared to traditional manual measurements, precision improved for auricle length (9×), width (5×), protrusion (5×), Auriculocephalic Angle (5-54×) and posteroanterior position (23×). Concerning parameters without comparison with a manual method, the precision level of supero-inferior position was 0.489 mm; and the precisions of the inclination angle measurements were 1.365 mm and 0.237 mm for the two automated methods investigated. Improved precision of measuring auricle parameters was associated with using the high-end scanner. A higher dose was only associated with a higher precision for the left auricle length. The findings of this study emphasize the advantage of automated surface-based auricle measurements, showcasing improved precision compared to traditional methods. This novel algorithm has the potential to enhance auricle reconstruction and other applications in plastic surgery, offering a promising avenue for future research and clinical application.

Lipids as potential mediators linking body mass index to diabetes: evidence from a mediation analysis based on the NAGALA cohort.

BACKGROUND: Body mass index (BMI) and lipid disorders are both known to be strongly associated with the development of diabetes, however, the indirect effect of lipid parameters in the BMI-related diabetes risk is currently unknown. This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of lipid parameters in the association of BMI with diabetes risk. METHODS: We assessed the association of diabetes risk with BMI, as well as lipid parameters including high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-CF and LDL-CS), triglycerides(TG), total cholesterol(TC), remnant cholesterol(RC), non-HDL-C, and combined indices of lipid parameters with HDL-C (RC/HDL-C ratio, TG/HDL-C ratio, TC/HDL-C ratio, non-HDL/HDL-C ratio, LDL/HDL-C ratio) using data from 15,453 subjects in the NAGALA project. Mediation models were used to explore the mediating role of lipid parameters in the association of BMI with diabetes risk, and mediation percentages were calculated for quantifying the strength of the indirect effects. Finally, receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was used to compare the accuracy of BMI and BMI combined with lipid parameters in predicting incident diabetes. RESULTS: Multivariate regression models, adjusted for confounding factors, demonstrated robust associations of lipid parameters, BMI, with diabetes risk, with the exception of TC, LDL-CF, LDL-CS, and non-HDL-C. Mediation analysis showed that lipid parameters except TC, LDL-CF, LDL-CS, and Non-HDL-C were involved in and mediated the association of BMI with diabetes risk, with the largest mediation percentage being the RC/HDL-C ratio, which was as high as 40%; it is worth mentioning that HDL-C and HDL-C-related lipid ratio parameters also play an important mediating role in the association between BMI and diabetes, with the mediator proportion being greater than 30%. Finally, based on the ROC results, we found that the prediction performance of all lipid parameters in the current study except TC was significantly improved when combined with BMI. CONCLUSION: Our fresh findings suggested that lipid parameters partially mediated the association of BMI with diabetes risk; this result indicated that in the context of diabetes risk screening and disease management, it is important to not only monitor BMI but also pay attention to lipid parameters, particularly HDL-C and HDL-C-related lipid ratio parameters.

Influence of different printing orientations and post-polymerization time on the translucency of three-dimensional (3D) printed denture base resins.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of different printing orientations and post-polymerization time with thermal cycling on the translucency of 3D-printed denture base resins. METHODS: Heat-polymerized (HP) acrylic resin specimens were fabricated and 3D-printed denture base materials (NextDent, ASIGA, FormLabs) were printed with different printing orientations (0, 45, 90 degrees) and subjected to different post-polymerization times (15-, 30-, 60-, and 90-min). All specimens were polished and immersed in distilled water for 1 day at 37°C. CIEDE2000 was used to measure the translucency parameters (TP00) before and after thermal cycling (5000 cycles) recording the color parameters (L*, a*, b*) against a black and white background using a spectrophotometer. k-factors ANOVA followed by post hoc Tukey's test (α = .05) was performed for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The k-factors ANOVA test showed a significant effect of resin material, post-polymerization time, and printing orientation on translucency (p < 0.001). In comparison to HP, all 3D-printed resins showed lower translucency with all post-polymerization times and printing orientation (p < 0.001) except FormLabs resin (p > 0.05). For all 3D-printed resins, the translucency increased, with increasing the post-polymerization time (p < 0.001) and 60- and 90-min showed the highest translucency. For printing orientation, 90 and 45 degrees significantly showed high translucency in comparison to 0 degrees (p < 0.001). FormLabs showed significantly higher translucency when compared with NextDent and ASIGA per respective printing orientation and post-polymerization time. The translucency significantly decreased after thermal cycling for all tested resins (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The findings of this study demonstrated that the translucency of 3D-printed resins is influenced by the printing orientation, post-polymerization time, and resin type. As a result, choosing a resin type, and printing orientation, with a longer post-polymerization time should be considered since it may improve the esthetic appearance of the 3D-printed resins.

The Impact of Hematologic Parameters on Histopathologic Features of Colorectal Cancer.

Background: Colorectal cancers (CRC) are one of the most common tumors that are being researched for new biomarkers worldwide. In this context, studies are being carried out to estimate whether various hematological parameters can be used for predicting prognosis. In this study, our aim was to evaluate the relation between platelet (PLT) levels as well as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet (PLT)-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and Lymphocyte-to-CRP ratio (LCR) which are easily accessible inflammatory response indicators. Methods: In this retrospective cross-sectional study, 111 patients diagnosed as colorectal adenocarcinoma were included. Patients with clinical evidence of an infection, recurrent colorectal cancer, previous history of a hematological disease, and a neoadjuvant chemo/radiotherapy were excluded. Demographic features such as age, gender, and histopathologic parameters such as tumor size, surgical margin status (proximal, distal, and radial), the presence of serosal inflammation, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), perineural invasion (PNI), lymph node metastasis (LNM) and distant metastasis, preoperative blood sample analysis, and CRP levels were noted. Statistical analysis for the association between hematologic parameters platelet (PLT) levels as well as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet (PLT)-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and Lymphocyte-to-CRP ratio (LCR) and histopathological features were done. Results: Among 111 patients, the mean age was 65.37, and the mean tumor size was 5.41 cm. Lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, radial surgical margin positivity, lymph node metastasis, localization, and stage were statistically significantly related to the number of platelets. For NLR, PNI (p=0.001), LNM (p=0.048), and stage (early/advanced) (p=0.045) were significantly related. None of the parameters were related to PLR and LCR. Conclusion: Perineural invasion, lymph node metastasis, and the stage of the tumor could be the major histopathological features that could be related to hematologic parameters; however, this should be researched by larger studies as if they can be used as prognostic markers.

Evaluation of Sechium edule fruit attenuation impact on the cardiomyopathy of the STZ-induced diabetic rats.

Sechium edule, commonly known as chayote is known for its low glycemic index, high fiber content, and rich nutritional profile, which suggests it may be beneficial for individuals with diabetes. While research specifically examining the impact of chayote on diabetes is limited, this study screened its biological impacts by using different biomarkers on streptozotocin-induced diabetic (STZ-ID) rats. The ethanolic extract of the Sechium edule fruits was assessed for different phytochemical, biochemical, and anti-diabetic properties. In the results, chayote extract had high phenolic and flavonoid contents respectively (39.25 ± 0.65 mg/mL and 12.16 ± 0.50 mg/mL). These high phenolic and flavonoid contents showed high implications on STZ-ID rats. Altogether 200 and 400 mg/kg of the extract considerably reduced the blood sugar level and enhanced the lipid profile of the STZ-ID rats. Additionally, they have decreased blood urea and serum creatinine levels. Besides, the levels of SGOT, SGPT, LDH, sodium, and potassium ions were significantly lowered after the administration period. More importantly, the electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters such as QT, RR, and QTc which were prolonged in the diabetic rats were downregulated after 35 days of administration of S. edule extract (400 mg/kg). And, the histological examination of the pancreas and kidney showed marked improvement in structural features of 200 and 400 mg/kg groups when compared to the diabetic control group. Where the increase in the glucose levels was positively correlated with QT, RR, and QTc (r2 = 0.76, r2 = 0.76, and r2 = 0.43) which means that ECG could significantly reflect the diabetes glucose levels. In conclusion, our findings showed that the fruit extract exerts a high potential to reduce artifacts secondary to diabetes which can be strongly suggested for diabetic candidates. However, there is a need to study the molecular mechanisms of the extract in combating artifacts secondary to diabetes in experimental animals.

[Optimization of phacoemulsification technique for Morgagnian cataract]. / Optimizatsiya tekhnologii fakoemul'sifikatsii morganievoi katarakty.

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to develop a new optimized phacoemulsification technique for Morgagnian cataract taking into account the anatomical and topographic parameters of the lens nucleus. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A working classification of Morgagnian cataract was developed based on the size of the nucleus: if the edge of the nucleus is visualized at the upper edge of the pupil or between the upper edge and the middle of the pupil, it was classified as an initial stage of Morgagnian cataract with a large nucleus; if the upper edge of the nucleus is visualized in the middle of the pupil and below, it was classified as an advanced stage of Morgagnian cataract with a small nucleus. The first group included six patients who underwent surgery using the scaffold technique with removal of the whole small nucleus into the anterior chamber. The second group included 11 patients who underwent surgery using the scaffold technique with removal of the last fragment of the nucleus into the anterior chamber. RESULTS: The use of the scaffold technique with removal of the nucleus into the anterior chamber helped reduce the number of intraoperative complications to 16.7% in the first group, compared to 27.3% in the second group, and the percentage of endothelial cell loss to 10.1% in the first group, compared to 10.7% in the second group. CONCLUSIONS: The anatomical and topographic features of the lens and the anterior segment of the eye in Morgagnian cataract with a small nucleus allow for preliminary implantation of an intraocular lens into the capsular bag to protect the posterior capsule during phacoemulsification of the nucleus with minimal mechanical, hydrodynamic and acoustic damage to the surrounding structures of the eye.

Cows with diverging haplotypes show differences in differential milk cell count, milk parameters and vaginal temperature after S. aureus challenge but not after E. coli challenge.

BACKGROUND: In dairy cattle, mastitis causes high financial losses and impairs animal well-being. Genetic selection is used to breed cows with reduced mastitis susceptibility. Techniques such as milk cell flow cytometry may improve early mastitis diagnosis. In a highly standardized in vivo infection model, 36 half-sib cows were selected for divergent paternal Bos taurus chromosome 18 haplotypes (Q vs. q) and challenged with Escherichia coli for 24 h or Staphylococcus aureus for 96 h, after which the samples were analyzed at 12 h intervals. Vaginal temperature (VT) was recorded every three minutes. The objective of this study was to compare the differential milk cell count (DMCC), milk parameters (fat %, protein %, lactose %, pH) and VT between favorable (Q) and unfavorable (q) haplotype cows using Bayesian models to evaluate their potential as improved early indicators of differential susceptibility to mastitis. RESULTS: After S. aureus challenge, compared to the Q half-sibship cows, the milk of the q cows exhibited higher PMN levels according to the DMCC (24 h, p < 0.001), a higher SCC (24 h, p < 0.01 and 36 h, p < 0.05), large cells (24 h, p < 0.05) and more dead (36 h, p < 0.001) and live cells (24 h, p < 0.01). The protein % was greater in Q milk than in q milk at 0 h (p = 0.025). In the S. aureus group, Q cows had a greater protein % (60 h, p = 0.048) and fat % (84 h, p = 0.022) than q cows. Initially, the greater VT of S. aureus-challenged q cows (0 and 12-24 h, p < 0.05) reversed to a lower VT in q cows than in Q cows (48-60 h, p < 0.05). Additionally, the following findings emphasized the validity of the model: in the S. aureus group all DMCC subpopulations (24 h-96 h, p < 0.001) and in the E. coli group nearly all DMCC subpopulations (12 h-24 h, p < 0.001) were higher in challenged quarters than in unchallenged quarters. The lactose % was lower in the milk samples of E. coli-challenged quarters than in those of S. aureus-challenged quarters (24 h, p < 0.001). Between 12 and 18 h, the VT was greater in cows challenged with E. coli than in those challenged with S. aureus (3-h interval approach, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This in vivo infection model confirmed specific differences between Q and q cows with respect to the DMCC, milk component analysis results and VT results after S. aureus inoculation but not after E. coli challenge. However, compared with conventional milk cell analysis monitoring, e.g., the global SCC, the DMCC analysis did not provide refined phenotyping of the pathogen response.

Exploring the effects of saccharides on the solvation behaviour of L-Citrulline in aqueous medium: Volumetric, transition state theory, transfer parameters and spectroscopic approach.

This study examines the volumetric, viscometric and UV-vis characteristics of L-Citrulline in water and aqueous saccharides at atmospheric pressure across the whole concentration range and the absorber operating temperature range of 293.15 K -313.15 K. Density, partial molar volume, apparent molar isobaric expansion, Hepler's constant and hydration number were among the examined volumetric parameters, and viscosity coefficients, viscosity deviation and free energy for viscous flow activation were among the examined viscometric parameters. Stronger interactions between L-Citrulline and L-Arabinose were indicated by the increase in the transfer characteristics in the following order: L-Arabinose > D-xylose. A comparison of the taste behaviours of L-Citrulline in water and in an aqueous solution of saccharides has also been attempted. L-Citrulline interacts with all solvents in a significant way, as evidenced by the UV-visible spectra suggested by the shift in UV-visible absorption maxima that correspond with a rise in L-Citrulline content in the solvent systems chosen.

Investigating knowledge of DRLs, image quality and radiation dose in PET/CT and CT imaging among medical imaging professionals.

Objective: To investigate the knowledge of diagnostic reference levels (DRLs), image quality, radiation dose and protocol parameters among Jordanian medical imaging professionals (MIPs) involved in PET/CT and CT scan procedures. Materials and methods: A questionnaire was designed and distributed to MIPs in Jordan. The survey comprised four sections: demographic data, MIP knowledge on dose/protocol parameters, image quality, and DRLs. Statistical analyses were performed utilizing Pearson's correlation, t-tests, ANOVA, and linear regression, with a significance level of 95 % and a p-value threshold of <0.05. Results: The study involved 147 participants. Most respondents were male (76.2 %), and most were aged 26-35 years (44.2 %). Approximately 51 % held a bachelor's degree, and the most common range of experience was 3-5 years (28.6 %). Participants showed a moderate level of knowledge regarding dose and protocol parameters, with a mean score of 61.8 %. The mean scores for knowledge of image quality and DRLs were 45.2 % and 44.8 %, respectively. The age group of the MIPs and the total experience were found to have a significant impact on the knowledge of the dose and protocol parameters, as well as the DRLs. Additionally, experience was found to have a significant influence on knowledge of the dose and protocol parameters. The study revealed a positive and significant effect of MIPs' knowledge of dose/protocol parameters and image quality on their knowledge of DRLs. Conclusions: This study indicates that professionals across five specialties who are engaged in PET/CT and CT imaging possess a moderate understanding of dosage and protocol parameters. However, there is a notable gap in knowledge regarding DRLs and image quality. To address this issue, it is recommended that MIPs actively engage in educational programs emphasizing exposure parameters and their impact on image quality. Additionally, access to comprehensive education and training programs will enable MIPs to grasp the complexities of DRLs and their implications, facilitating their implementation in clinical practice.

The Impact of an Educational Intervention on Enhancing Clinical Knowledge of Physicians and Pharmacists Regarding Statins and Monitoring Parameters: The Experience of a Tertiary Teaching Hospital.

Introduction: Understanding the latest guideline recommendations is crucial for healthcare professionals to apply statin therapy effectively. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an educational intervention in enhancing the awareness and understanding of physicians and pharmacists concerning risk assessment of Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and the role of statin therapy. Methods: This pre- and post-intervention study was conducted in Sana'a, Yemen's capital city, at the University of Science and Technology Hospital. The study was done between 11/2021-12/2021, and two separate educational sessions were held. The McNemar's test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test were employed as necessary. Results: Participants' awareness of the Framingham CVD risk calculator improved significantly from 40.4% pre-intervention to 78.7% post-intervention. Similarly, understanding of the parameters used in the 10-year ASCVD Risk calculator rose from 46.8% pre-intervention to 76.6% post-intervention. The ability to identify high, moderate, and low-intensity statin therapy, for instance, increased from 34% to 63.8% post-intervention. Regarding statins' contraindications, safety, and efficacy monitoring parameters, pre-intervention knowledge was unsatisfactory, and the educational intervention improved it significantly (p <0.05). For physicians, the median ASCVD risk assessment knowledge score was significantly improved from 4 (IQR = 3-5) pre-intervention to 7 (6.25-8) immediately post-intervention, while the statin therapy clinical knowledge median score significantly improved from 3 (1.25-6.5) to 9 (7.25-14.75) post-education intervention, p-values were 0.002 and 0.003; respectively. For pharmacists, a similar significant improvement (p <0.05) in the overall knowledge scores for both ASCVD risk assessment and statin therapy was noted. Conclusion: The educational intervention improved participants' knowledge of statin therapy and ASCVD risk assessment. Therefore, further education lectures and training programs through continuing medical education on the up-to-date guidelines' recommendations should be regularly implemented to raise awareness and improve the clinical knowledge and appropriateness of statins use in clinical settings. .

Posterolateral Fusion Versus Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Adult Low-Grade Isthmic Spondylolisthesis: Analysis of Sagittal Radiographic Parameters - A Randomized Controlled Trial.

STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial. OBJECTIVES: To compare the effect of posterolateral fusion (PLF) and posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) on sagittal radiographic parameters in patients with low-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis. Additionally, to explore the correlation between changes in these parameters and clinical outcomes. METHODS: Forty-six consecutive patients with single-level low-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis were initially enrolled. They were randomly assigned to undergo either PLF or PLIF. Patients were followed up for at least 24 months. Radiographic outcomes included pelvic incidence, pelvic tilt, sacral slope, lumbar lordosis, sagittal vertical axis, T1 pelvic angle, slip angle, slip degree and disc height. Clinical outcomes were assessed by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and visual analogue scale (VAS). RESULTS: Four participants were lost to follow-up. Of the remaining 42 patients, 29 were female. The mean age was 40.23 ± 10.25 years in the PLF group and 35.81 ± 10.58 years in the PLIF group. There was a statistically significant greater correction of all radiographic parameters in the PLIF group. The ODI and VAS improved significantly in both groups, with no significant differences between the two groups. Changes in the ODI and VAS were significantly correlated with changes in disc height, slip angle and lumbar lordosis. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with low-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis, PLIF demonstrates superior efficacy compared to PLF in correcting sagittal radiographic parameters. Nevertheless, this distinction does not seem to influence short-term clinical results. Restoring disc height, correcting the slip angle, and reestablishing normal lumbar lordosis are crucial steps in the surgical management of isthmic spondylolisthesis.

Improvement in axial rotation with bracing reduces the risk of curve progression in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

PURPOSE: New evidence highlights the significance of 3D in-brace correction for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) patients. This study explores how axial parameters relate to treatment failure in braced AIS patients. METHODS: AIS patients (Sanders 1-5) undergoing Rigo-Chêneau bracing at a single institution were included. Axial vertebral rotation (AVR) was determined by utilizing pre-brace and in-brace 3D reconstructions from EOS® radiographs. The primary outcome was treatment failure: surgery or coronal curve progression > 5°. Minimum follow-up was two years. RESULTS: 75 patients (81% female) were included. Mean age at bracing initiation was 12.8 ± 1.3 years and patients had a pre-brace major curve of 31.0° ± 6.5°. 25 patients (76% female) experienced curve progression > 5°, and 18/25 required surgical intervention. The treatment failure group had larger in-brace AVR than the success group (5.8° ± 4.1° vs. 9.9° ± 7.6°, p = 0.003), but also larger initial coronal curve measures. In-brace AVR did not appear to be associated with treatment failure after adjusting for the pre-brace major curve (Hazard Ratio (HR):0.99, 95% Confidence Interval (CI):0.94-1.05, p = 0.833). Adjusting for pre-brace major curve, patients with AVR improvement with bracing had an 85% risk reduction in treatment failure versus those without (HR:0.15, 95% CI:0.02-1.13, p = 0.066). At the final follow-up, 42/50 (84%) patients without progression had Sanders ≥ 7. CONCLUSIONS: While in-brace rotation was not an independent predictor of curve progression (due to its correlation with curve magnitude), improved AVR with bracing was a significant predictor of curve progression. This study is the first step toward investigating the interplay between 3D parameters, skeletal maturity, compliance, and brace efficacy, allowing a future prospective multicenter study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Retrospective study; Level III.

Recuperative Effects of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) in Catla catla After Sub-Lethal Exposure to Lead.

This research was conducted to validate the beneficial effects of incorporating dietary cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) powder (CzP) in alleviating lead (Pb) poisoning in fish. Healthy Catla catla individuals (16.36 ± 0.19 g/fish) were distributed across 18 tanks in triplicate groups. The experimental groups were as follows: Control group: fish without supplementation or exposure to Pb; positive control group: fish without supplementation but exposed to 1 mg/L Pb; 5 g/kg CzP along with 1 mg/L Pb exposure; 10 g/kg CzP along with 1 mg/L Pb exposure; 15 g/kg CzP along with 1 mg/L Pb exposure; and 20 g/kg CzP along with 1 mg/L Pb exposure. The trial continued for a period of 60 days. Waterborne Pb had a deleterious effect on fish growth performance, body composition, blood profile, and digestive enzyme activity, along with elevated Pb accumulation in various tissues. Conversely, consumption of cinnamon effectively mitigated the toxic potential of Pb and enhanced fish longevity. Notably, 10 g/kg CzP boosted growth, improved carcass quality, reversed blood indices, restored enzyme function in the gut, and mitigated Pb accumulation in tissues. In summary, the findings revealed that incorporating 10 g/kg of CzP as a dietary supplement in C. catla aquaculture could effectively counteract heavy metal toxicity.

Long-term efficacy of Waveflex semi-rigid-dynamic-internal-fixation system in delaying intervertebral disc degeneration at adjacent segments and improving spinal sagittal imbalance.

The Waveflex semi-rigid-dynamic-internal-fixation system shows good short-term effects in the treatment of lumbar degenerative diseases, but there are few long-term follow-up studies, especially for recovery of sagittal balance. Fifty patients with lumbar degenerative diseases treated from January 2016 to October 2017 were retrospectively analysed: 25 patients treated with Waveflex semi-rigid-dynamic-internal-fixation system (Waveflex group) and 25 patients treated with double-segment PLIF (PLIF group). Clinical efficacy was evaluated by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Imaging data before surgery and at 3 months, 1 year, and 5 years postoperatively was used for imaging indicator assessment. Local disc degeneration of the cephalic adjacent segment (including disc height index (DHI), intervertebral foramen height (IFH), and range of motion (ROM)) and overall spinal motor function (including lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), and |PI-LL|) were analysed. Regarding clinical efficacy, comparison of VAS and ODI scores between the Waveflex and PLIF groups showed no significant preoperative or postoperative differences. The comparison of the objective imaging indicators showed no significant differences in the DHI, IFH, LL, |PI-LL|, and SS values between the Waveflex and PLIF groups preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively (P > 0.05). These values were significantly different at 1 and 5 years postoperatively (P < 0.05), and the Waveflex group showed better ROM values than those of the PLIF group (P < 0.05). PI values were not significantly different between the groups, but PT showed a significant improvement in the Waveflex group 5 years postoperatively (P < 0.05). The Waveflex semi-rigid dynamic fixation system can effectively reduce the probability of intervertebral disc degeneration in upper adjacent segments. Simultaneously, patients in the Waveflex group showed postoperative improvements in LL, spinal sagittal imbalance, and quality of life.

Exploring the Microbiome Landscape of Dental Plaque: A Cross-Sectional Analysis in Periodontal Health and Disease.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to comprehensively analyze the microbiome of dental plaque in individuals with varying periodontal statuses, encompassing both periodontal health and disease. The primary objectives were to identify microbial markers associated with different clinical conditions, explore variations in microbial diversity, and investigate potential correlations between the oral microbiome and clinical parameters. METHODS: A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 164 participants aged 18 to 65 years. Inclusion criteria comprised individuals with good oral and systemic health for the periodontal health group and those diagnosed with various stages of periodontal disease for the periodontal disease group. Dental plaque samples were meticulously collected from diverse tooth surfaces, and clinical examinations were conducted to assess periodontal health status. High-throughput sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene was utilized for microbiome analysis. RESULTS: Demographic characteristics revealed a balanced distribution between the periodontal health and disease groups. Clinical parameters, including probing depth, clinical attachment loss, and bleeding on probing, exhibited significant differences between the two groups (p < 0.001). Microbial diversity indices indicated a higher diversity in the periodontal health group compared to the disease group (p < 0.001). Analysis of relative abundance of bacterial phyla identified significant variations, with Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria showing differential prevalence between health and disease (p < 0.05). Differentially abundant taxa analysis highlighted specific species associated with each clinical condition, including Prevotella intermedia and Porphyromonas gingivalis. Network analysis revealed complex microbial interactions within the oral microbiome. Functional predictions indicated variations in metabolic capabilities between health and disease, with potential implications for virulence and antibiotic resistance. CONCLUSION: This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the oral microbiome in periodontal health and disease, revealing significant associations between microbial composition and clinical parameters. The identification of microbial markers and functional insights enhances our understanding of the complex interplay within the oral ecosystem. These findings hold promise for advancing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches tailored to individual microbial profiles.