Changes In Density Research Articles

Clearing-enabled light sheet microscopy as a novel method for three-dimensional mapping of the sensory innervation of the mouse knee.

A major barrier that hampers our understanding of the precise anatomic distribution of pain sensing nerves in and around the joint is the limited view obtained from traditional two dimensional (D) histological approaches. Therefore, our objective was to develop a workflow that allows examination of the innervation of the intact mouse knee joint in 3D by employing clearing-enabled light sheet microscopy. We first surveyed existing clearing protocols (SUMIC, PEGASOS, and DISCO) to determine their ability to clear the whole mouse knee joint, and discovered that a DISCO protocol provided the optimal transparency for light sheet microscopy imaging. We then modified the DISCO protocol to enhance binding and penetration of antibodies used for labeling nerves. Using the pan-neuronal PGP9.5 antibody, our protocol allowed 3D visualization of innervation in and around the mouse knee joint. We then implemented the workflow in mice intra-articularly injected with nerve growth factor (NGF) to determine whether changes in the nerve density can be observed. Both 3D and 2D analytical approaches of the light sheet microscopy images demonstrated quantifiable changes in midjoint nerve density following 4 weeks of NGF injection in the medial but not in the lateral joint compartment. We provide, for the first time, a comprehensive workflow that allows detailed and quantifiable examination of mouse knee joint innervation in 3D.

Atlantic Meridional Overturning Response to Increased Southern Ocean Wind Stress in a Climate Model with an Eddy-Rich Ocean

Abstract The Southern Hemisphere westerly winds experienced significant changes over recent decades and are projected to further strengthen, altering ocean hydrography and dynamics. While anomalies of Southern Hemisphere origin are hypothesized to impact the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC), many details of this relationship remain unknown as previous modeling studies are limited by the application of forced, coarse-resolution ocean models, or a short integration length. Here, a coupled, nested climate model configuration, covering the Atlantic Ocean at an eddy-rich 1/10° resolution is applied to study the adjustment of the large-scale circulation to a 30% increase in the Southern Ocean wind stress. The AMOC responds to the stronger wind stress with a strengthening of 0.6–1.4 Sv (1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1) across the entire Atlantic after approximately 80 years. At that time, anomalous watermass transformation mainly occurs at the entry into the Nordic seas. A density anomaly in the overflow water then induces anomalous sinking in the eastern subpolar gyre, providing a link between AMOC changes in density and depth coordinates. Our study suggests that these watermass changes are caused by northward-propagating anomalies and provides a detailed hypothesis for the link between the Indian Ocean inflow via Agulhas leakage and the AMOC. Nevertheless, due to coupled ocean–atmosphere adjustments, anomalies do not simply follow the main volume transport pathways along the western boundary. Mixing between advectively transported and locally forced anomalies leads to an increasingly complex evolution of watermass anomalies and less certainty in the relative contributions of involved mechanisms toward subpolar latitudes.

Building an eDNA surveillance toolkit for invasive rodents on islands: can we detect wild-type and gene drive Mus musculus?

Invasive management strategies range from preventing new invasive species incursions to eliminating established populations, with all requiring effective monitoring to guide action. The use of DNA sampled from the environment (eDNA) is one such tool that provides the ability to surveille and monitor target invasive species through passive sampling. Technology being developed to eliminate invasive species includes genetic biocontrol in the form of gene drive. This approach would drive a trait through a population and could be used to eliminate or modify a target population. Once a gene drive organism is released into a population then monitoring changes in density of the target species and the spread of the drive in the population would be critical. In this paper, we use invasive Mus musculus as a model for development of an eDNA assay that detects wild-type M. musculus and gene drive M. musculus. We demonstrate successful development of an assay where environmental samples could be used to detect wild-type invasive M. musculus and the relative density of wild-type to gene drive M. musculus. The development of a method that detects both wild-type M. musculus and a gene drive M. musculus (tCRISPR) from environmental samples expands the utility of environmental DNA. This method provides a tool that can immediately be deployed for invasive wild M. musculus management across the world. This is a proof-of-concept that a genetic biocontrol construct could be monitored using environmental samples.

Kinetic instabilities in two-isotopic plasma in the gas-dynamic trap magnetic mirror

A fusion neutron source (FNS) based on the gas-dynamic trap (GDT, Budker Institute, Novosibirsk) is considered for confinement of two-species plasma heated by neutral beam injection in a regime where the fast ion distribution function is far from Maxwellian. Kinetic instabilities are expected to develop in this regime, and in this paper we investigate the ion-cyclotron instability evolving in moderate densities of pure hydrogen and mixed deuterium–hydrogen target plasmas. The properties of the studied unstable mode, such as its azimuthal wavenumbers, propagation direction and its being affected by changes in the bulk plasma density and composition, allow us to identify it as the drift cyclotron loss cone (DCLC) instability. This mode scatters fast ions and thereby leads to drops in diamagnetic flux signals and increases longitudinal energy and particle losses, with the average energy of the lost ions estimated to be far above the temperature of warm Maxwellian ions. Our interpretation is that the unstable wave grows due to interaction with the fast ions located near the loss cone in the velocity space and scatters them. Applying the method of suppressing the DCLC instability by filling the loss cone with warm plasma, we have determined the values of plasma density and deuterium percentage that allow us to suppress the DCLC instability in the GDT. These findings justify using mixed bulk plasmas in fusion neutron source operation.

Hippocampal exosomes from stroke aggravate post-stroke depression by regulating the expression of proBDNF and p75NTR and altering spine density.

Post-stroke depression (PSD) affects millions of patients who suffer cerebral stroke. However, the molecular mechanisms and pathophysiology are poorly understood. Previous studies have shown that exosomes have been proven to be involved in neuropsychiatric disorders such as stroke and post-stroke depression in neurotransmitter release, neuronal remodeling, and neuron angiogenesis. Here we extracted and purified hippocampal exosomes from stroke mouse model to investigate mechanisms of hippocampal exocytosis in PSD assessed by using behavioral tests and biochemical methods. Aiming at the effect of hippocampal exosomes from stroke on the development of PSD, behavioral test was compared including sugar water preference experiment, open fields, forced swimming test, to explore it in depth. Further, the expression of depression-related protein (proBDNF and p75NTR) and synapse-associated proteins (Synaptotagmin and PSD95) was evaluated by Western blotting, RT-qPCR or immunofluorescence staining. Density of dendritic protrusions of neurons was assessed by Golgi staining to measure changes in spine density after the treatment of hippocampal exosomes from stroke. Our results revealed that injection of exosomes from stroke models significantly aggravated depressive-like behaviors, increase of depression-related protein (proBDNF and p75NTR) expression and deficiency of synapse-associated proteins (Synaptotagmin and PSD95) expression, and the decreased number of spin density. Our findings together suggest that hippocampal exosomes from stroke cause exacerbation of depressive-like behavior in mice, possibly resulting from the regulation of neurogenesis by its depression-associated proteins (proBDNF and p75NTR). Therefore, hippocampal exosomes from stroke are promising targets for the diagnosis and treatment of PSD.

Analysis of the relationship between cutting forces and local structural properties of Scots pine wood aided by computed tomography

AbstractX-ray computed tomography (CT) is utilised in some sawmills today, primarily for enhancing value yield and for process automation, which includes log sorting and sawing optimisation. Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of recent research utilising CT to assess the local cutting process. As a preliminary study, this paper addresses this gap by using CT to investigate the connections between local cutting force and local wood properties including density, knots, and annual ring width. Workpieces of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), from Sweden and Poland, were CT-scanned in laboratory conditions. Quasi-linear cutting tests were then performed on both clear and knotty regions of the workpieces using a custom-made laboratory stand with a Stellite-tipped tooth mounted on piezoelectric sensors. It was found that density influences cutting forces for both clear and knotty wood, and this effect increased noticeably with increasing uncut chip thickness. Changes in wood density, such as between sapwood and heartwood or between clear wood and knot, caused dynamic changes in cutting forces and temporary disturbances to the stability of the system. Normalisation of cutting forces by local density allowed the conclusion that density is not the only property affecting cutting forces. Other structural properties, e.g. annual ring width and latewood–earlywood proportion may affect the cutting process as well, which requires deeper analysis in the future research. This preliminary study demonstrates the feasibility and usefulness of coupling CT data with cutting force measurements and suggests further research on the relationship between cutting force and wood properties.

VEGFC Overexpression in Kidney Progenitor Cells Is a Model of Renal Lymphangiectasia.

Lymphangiogenesis is believed to be a protective response in the setting of multiple forms of kidney injury and mitigates the progression of interstitial fibrosis. To augment this protective response, promoting kidney lymphangiogenesis is being investigated as a potential treatment to slow the progression of kidney disease. As injury-related lymphangiogenesis is driven by signaling from the receptor VEGFR3 (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3) in response to the cognate growth factor VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor)-C released by tubular epithelial cells, this signaling pathway is a candidate for future kidney therapeutics. However, the consequences to kidney development and function to targeting this signaling pathway remain poorly defined. We generated a new mouse model expressing Vegfc under regulation of the nephron progenitor Six2Cre driver strain (Six2Vegfc). Mice underwent a detailed phenotypic evaluation. Whole kidneys were processed for histology and 3-dimensional imaging. Six2Vegfc mice had reduced body weight and kidney function compared with littermate controls. Six2Vegfc kidneys demonstrated large peripelvic fluid-filled lesions with distortion of the pelvicalcyceal system which progressed in severity with age. Three-dimensional imaging showed a 3-fold increase in total cortical vascular density. Histology confirmed a substantial increase in LYVE1+ (lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor-1)/PDPN+ (podoplanin)/VEGFR3+ lymphatic capillaries extending alongside EMCN+ (endomucin) peritubular capillaries. There was no change in EMCN+ peritubular capillary density. Kidney lymphatic density was robustly increased in the Six2Vegfc mice. There were no changes in peritubular blood capillary density despite these endothelial cells also expressing VEGFR3. The model resulted in malformation of the lymphatic hilar plexus, resulting in severe hydronephrosis that resembled a human condition termed renal lymphangiectasia. This study defines the vascular consequences of augmenting VEGFC signaling during kidney development and provides new insight into human renal lymphatic malformations.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RETINAL PERFUSION AND FUNCTIONAL RECOVERING OF FOVEA IN DIFFERENT TYPES OF SURGICAL CLOSURE OF FULL-THICKNESS MACULAR HOLES

Rationale: The effect of retinal perfusion on functional recovery of the fovea, as well as the value of quantitative perfusion parameters as predictors of functional outcome in the surgical treatment of full-thickness macular holes (FTMH) remains poorly understood.Objective: To study the relationship between changes in retinal perfusion and functional parameters of the fovea in the postoperative period at 1 and 2 types of FTMH closure.Methods: A prospective study including 93 patients (93 eyes) with idiopathic FTMH stage 2-4 according to D. Gass after surgical treatment. In subgroups with type 1 and type 2 of FTMH closure, changes in the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area and vessel density in the superficial and deep capillary plexuses (SCP and DCP) in the fovea, changes in BCVA, retinal sensitivity (RS) at the fixation point, and P1 amplitude in the fovea were studied. Studies were performed preoperatively, 1 and 6 months after surgery. A significant correlation was found between the changes in BCVA, RS at the fixation point, P1 amplitude in the fovea, and changes in vessel density in the SCP and DCP, which was more pronounced in the period from 1 to 6 months after surgery. The correlation of the changes in the parameters is higher in type 2 of FTMH closure than in type 1 of FTMH closure.Results:. Subgroups with type 1 and type 2 FTMH closure included 67 and 26 eyes, respectively. Type 2 FTMH closure showed lower vascular density in the DCP before (p=0.02) and 6 months after surgery (p=0.03), lower BCVA before surgery (p=0.03), 1 and 6 months after surgery (p <0.001), lower RS at the fixation point before and after surgery (p<0.002).Conclusion. In type 2 macular hole closure, postoperative changes in retinal perfusion have a more pronounced impact on functional recovery of the fovea, especially in the late postoperative period.

ISWI1 complex proteins facilitate developmental genome editing in Paramecium.

One of the most extensive forms of natural genome editing occurs in ciliates, a group of microbial eukaryotes. Ciliate germline and somatic genomes are contained in distinct nuclei within the same cell. During the massive reorganization process of somatic genome development, ciliates eliminate tens of thousands of DNA sequences from a germline genome copy. Recently, we showed that the chromatin remodeler ISWI1 is required for somatic genome development in the ciliate Paramecium tetraurelia Here, we describe two high similarity paralogous proteins, ICOPa and ICOPb, essential for their genome editing. ICOPa and ICOPb are highly divergent from known proteins; the only domain detected showed distant homology to the WSD (WHIM2+WHIM3) motif. We show that both ICOPa and ICOPb interact with the chromatin remodeler ISWI1. Upon ICOP knockdown, changes in alternative DNA excision boundaries and nucleosome densities are similar to those observed for ISWI1 knockdown. We thus propose that a complex comprising ISWI1 and either or both ICOPa and ICOPb are needed for Paramecium's precise genome editing.

Melt Expansion and Thermal Transitions of Semiconducting Polymers in Thin Films

AbstractThe molecular self‐organization and reorganization and thus volumetric and density changes during structural relaxation and melting of modern organic semi‐conducting materials remains largely unknown, particularly in the device relevant thin film geometry where the initial state may be structurally quenched away from equilibrium. Here, the apparent mass‐thickness of a range of semi‐conducting polymeric or molecular model materials systems is measured through in situ ellipsometry. Surprisingly, the volume changes upon melting correlate inversely, with a few exceptions, to the quality of crystallinity found via x‐ray methods (i.e., directly correlate with the paracrystalline g‐parameter) rather than the melting enthalpy that is possibly a proxy for the degree of crystallinity. This study also observes changes in orientation and/or density due to segmental relaxation during the first heat, thus complementing other characterization methods that measure relaxation or reorganization transitions. Semiconducting materials exhibit very large melt expansion and a richer phase‐behavior compared to commodity polymers, presumably due to their complex chemical structure. The results delineate an important and novel structure‐function relation that, together with simulations constrained by these results, will lead to better rational design of semi‐conducting materials.

Comparing Alternative Non-Selective Herbicides in Oregon and New Mexico

Abstract Municipalities are considering alternatives to traditional herbicides for suppressing weeds and vegetation in areas frequented by the public. Two field experiments were conducted to test the efficacy of alternative non-selective herbicides: one in Corvallis, Oregon, on a mixed lawn of perennial ryegrass, annual bluegrass, and broadleaf weeds, and another experiment in Las Cruces, New Mexico, on a predominantly bermudagrass lawn with broadleaf weeds. The experimental objective was to quantify and compare the effects of repeated applications of ten non-selective herbicides to terminate a lawn with mixed vegetation. Applications were made every two weeks for four applications starting on 15 April 2022 in Corvallis and 26 May 2022 in Las Cruces. Data collected included the percent green cover over time calculated using an area under the percent green cover progress curve (AUPGCPC), the percent green cover at the conclusion of the experiment, and the change in monocot and dicot density over the course of the experiment. All treatments resulted in a lower AUPGCPC compared to water only except for mint oil + sodium lauryl sulfate + potassium sorbate. The only treatments with an average percent green cover less than 50% was a combination of ammoniated soap of fatty acids + maleic hydrazide (47% green cover) in Corvallis and pelargonic acid (38%) in Las Cruces, suggesting that more applications would be needed to terminate the lawn under similar circumstances. At the conclusion of the experiment, the water only plots averaged 90% and 93% green cover in Corvallis and Las Cruces, respectively. The change of monocot and dicot densities over the course of the experiment indicated that some of the products tested may be more sensitive to dicots, or in some cases monocots, suggesting a potential for future selective herbicide research in certain locations and climates.

Corrugated veneer panel thermophysical properties

The article substantiates the need to develop new mechanisms for the hardwood use in modern conditions of Republic of Karelia timber industry. One of the potential uses of birch wood in wooden house construction is building materials production from veneer and slab materials based on it. A large amount of associated waste from processing birch wood into veneer stands out as one of the key problems. A new slab joinery and construction material made of corrugated birch veneer is considered. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the thermophysical properties of a corrugated board made of birch wood. To achieve this goal, the tasks and methods of research are defined. An experimental device has been developed to conduct an experiment to determine the values of thermophysical characteristics. DS18B20 temperature sensors were used to measure the surface temperature, as well as to monitor device operation and the room air temperature. The sensors are connected to the Arduino microcontroller platform, which was used to record and transmit sensor readings. Additionally, the course of the experiment was monitored using a thermal imager Testo 875-1i. During the experiment, more than 1000 measurements were carried out. As a result of data processing, a diagram of the dependence of the density of the heat flux passing through the sample on time, as well as diagrams of the dependence of thermal conductivity and thermal resistance on the temperature difference on the sample surfaces, was obtained. The diagrams show the regression dependences of changes in heat flux density, thermal conductivity and thermal resistance during measurements. The values of the heat flux density, thermal conductivity coefficient and thermal resistance calculated on the basis of regression equations and the values obtained experimentally are determined. The directions of further research of the material under consideration are determined.

Abstract B073: Leveraging micronuclei DNA from erythrocytes for early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of liver cancer and accounts for ∼90% of cases globally. Detection of early-stage HCC is vital as it allows for potentially curative treatment, yet remains a significant challenge. Micronuclei (MN) are a hallmark of genomic instability. An increased frequency of MN is commonly observed in tumor cells as well as other somatic cells, including erythrocytes, in cancer patients. Here, we have established a technique (WO2021/228246 A1), for the isolation and analysis of micronuclei DNA (MN-DNA) in erythrocytes from peripheral blood. Significant changes in read densities at specific genomic locations within MN-DNA were identified in patients, termed as tumor- associated MN-DNA (taMN-DNA) features. This study evaluates the potential of these taMN- DNA features for early-stage HCC detection across human and murine model. Methods: To explore the potential of MN-DNA in cancer detection, we first collected 1-2 mL of whole blood from HDs (N = 53) and HCC patients (N = 53). MN-DNA was isolated and purified from erythrocytes, followed by whole-genome sequencing. Participants were randomly divided into training, test cohorts in an 8:2 ratio. We applied machine learning algorithms to leverage these features for cancer detection in the human model. Additionally, to investigate the formation of taMN-DNA features, we employed a well-established mouse model that mimics HCC development. Mice were injected with the genotoxic agent diethylnitrosamine (DEN) 2 weeks after birth, and developed malignant macroscopic liver nodules at approximately 40 weeks of age. Results: In the human cohort, we enrolled 106 participants, with more than half of the HCC cases were diagnosed at early-stage (stage 0-II). The cancer detection model utilizing taMN- DNA features achieved an overall accuracy of 86.3%, with a sensitivity of 81.8% and specificity of 90.9%. For early-stage, the model demonstrated sensitivities of 54.5% at a specificity of 90.9%. In the DEN-induced HCC mouse model, unsupervised hierarchical clustering based on these selected taMN-DNA features clearly separated WT and tumor mice into two distinct groups. Notably, mice that were not tumorigenic at 36 weeks post-treatment in the DEN-treated group fell into the WT group when classified by the same taMN-DNA features, indicating that the formation of taMN-DNA signatures is associated with the presence of tumors specifically. Conclusions: This pilot study highlights the potential of MN-DNA as a promising tool for early HCC detection. Leveraging these taMN-DNA features can accurately distinguish early-stage HCC patients from HDs with high sensitivity. In both human and murine models, there is a significant relationship between these signatures and tumor presence, suggesting that taMN- DNA features might reflect the diseased state across mammalian species. Research sponsor: Timing Biotech. Citation Format: Hui Lin, Haobo Sun, Xingyun Yao, Xiaoxiao Fan, Fei Meng, Honghao Liang, Xiaofei Gao. Leveraging micronuclei DNA from erythrocytes for early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Liquid Biopsy: From Discovery to Clinical Implementation; 2024 Nov 13-16; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2024;30(21_Suppl):Abstract nr B073.

Abstract A041: Detection of early-stage gastrointestinal cancers using micronuclei DNA from erythrocytes

Abstract Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers account for over a third of cancer deaths. However, their early detection remains a challenge. Micronuclei (MN) are cytoplasm-resident subcellular structures, containing damaged chromosome segments that indicative of genomic instability. Increased MN frequency in hematopoietic cells is observed in patients with solid tumors. Our developed technique (WO2021/228246 A1) enables the purification and characterization of micronuclei DNA in erythrocytes from peripheral blood. By comparing MN-DNA from healthy donors (HDs) and GI cancer patients, we identified significant changes in read densities at specific genomic locations in patients, which were termed as tumor-associated MN-DNA (taMN- DNA) features. Here, we evaluated the potential of these features for early-stage GI cancer detection, including colorectal (CC), gastric (GC) and esophageal (EC) cancers. Methods: Peripheral blood (1-2 mL) was collected from healthy donors (HD) and cancer patients MN-DNA isolation and purification from erythrocytes. Participants were randomly divided into training, validation and independent test cohorts in a 7:2:1 ratio, maintaining similar cancer types, gender and age distribution. Distinct MN-DNA features between cancer patients and HDs were identified using sequencing data. Machine learning algorithms were applied using these features for cancer detection. Results: The study enrolled 1753 participants, including 987 HDs, 420 CC, 282 GC and 64 EC cases. Of these, over half were diagnosed with early-stage diseases; TNM stage 0-I accounted for 40.57%, stage II for 23.32%, stage III for 29.25% and stage IV for 6.87%. The pan-cancer model achieved 88.2% sensitivity with an overall specificity of 95.4%. Patients in individual caner types were detected from the tissue of origin classification with an overall accuracy of 91.9% based on pan-cancer at 95.4% specificity. Sensitivity was 90.8% for CC, 91.7% for GC and 100% for EC. For early- stage (stage 0-II) CC, GC and EC, the model demonstrated sensitivities of 97.4%, 94.7% and 100.00%, respectively, at 95.4% specificity. Conclusions: Unlike cell-free DNA, MN-DNA are chromosomal fragments in the cytoplasm. The abundance of erythrocytes in peripheral blood provides an easily accessible source for MN-DNA enrichment. This pilot study illustrates the potential of MN-DNA as a tool for early GI cancer detection, contributing to large-scale efforts towards developing an effective GI cancer screening test. Research sponsor: Timing Biotech. Citation Format: Haobo Sun, Xingyun Yao, Yuehua Han, Yurong Jiao, Xiangxing Kong, Chengcheng Liu, Qingqu Guo, Fei Meng, Honghao Liang, Hongbo Li, Xiuqin Fan, Jun Li, Xiaofei Gao. Detection of early-stage gastrointestinal cancers using micronuclei DNA from erythrocytes [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Liquid Biopsy: From Discovery to Clinical Implementation; 2024 Nov 13-16; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2024;30(21_Suppl):Abstract nr A041.

A non-intrusive reduced-order model for finite element analysis of implant positioning in total hip replacements.

Sophisticated high-fidelity simulations can predict bone mass density (BMD) changes around a hip implant after implantation. However, these models currently have high computational demands, rendering them impractical for clinical settings. Model order reduction techniques offer a remedy by enabling fast evaluations. In this work, a non-intrusive reduced-order model, combining proper orthogonal decomposition with radial basis function interpolation (POD-RBF), is established to predict BMD distributions for varying implant positions. A parameterised finite element mesh is morphed using Laplace's equation, which eliminates tedious remeshing and projection of the BMD results on a common mesh in the offline stage. In the online stage, the surrogate model can predict BMD distributions for new implant positions and the results are visualised on the parameterised reference mesh. The computational time for evaluating the final BMD distribution around a new implant position is reduced from minutes to milliseconds by the surrogate model compared to the high-fidelity model. The snapshot data, the surrogate model parameters and the accuracy of the surrogate model are analysed. The presented non-intrusive surrogate model paves the way for on-the-fly evaluations in clinical practice, offering a promising tool for planning and monitoring of total hip replacements.

Status of Redband Trout and Nonnative Trout in the Wood River Basin, Idaho

Abstract The Wood River Basin in central Idaho has been isolated from the surrounding Snake River Basin by Malad Gorge Falls for at least 50,000 years, and recent genetic analyses suggest that Redband Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri in the basin represent a previously undescribed lineage. To assess their contemporary status, we electrofished 22 study reaches in 2021-2022 previously occupied by Redband Trout when originally surveyed in 2003. Our objective was to assess changes in the occurrence and density of Redband Trout, Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis, and Brown Trout Salmo trutta. In 2021-2022, Redband Trout were absent in 5 of the 22 originally occupied reaches with Brook Trout as the only salmonid species present at all extirpated reaches. Brook Trout have now been extirpated from two reaches previously occupied with Redband Trout as the only salmonid species present at both reaches. Brown Trout colonized one new reach since 2003 and are now present at all study reaches (n = 3) which exceed 10 m average stream wetted width. Average fish density increased from 2003 to 2021-2022 across all study reaches for total trout (all species combined) and at nearly all study reaches for each individual trout species. Changes in Redband Trout density were unrelated to changes in nonnative trout density. On average Redband Trout composition (of all trout at each reach) across all study reaches decreased by 13% while Brook Trout and Brown Trout increased by 8% and 4%, respectively from 2003 to 2021-2022. Nevertheless, Brook Trout are increasingly present in headwater streams while Brown Trout occupy larger, lower elevation rivers, potentially threatening the long-term conservation of Redband Trout in the Wood River Basin. Although additional data is warranted to more completely understand the distribution of trout, these preliminary results suggest that management activities may be necessary to control the further spread of nonnative salmonids in the basin.

Size Matters: A Comparative Study on Midday Fogging and Lens Settling in Patients With Keratoconus Wearing Mini-Scleral Lenses With Two Different Diameters

Purpose: The objective of this study was to compare the changes in postlens fluid optical density, timing and quantity of lens settling, and the clinical performance between two different mini-scleral lenses. Methods: Seventeen eyes of 10 patients with keratoconus were fitted with a 15-mm mini-scleral lens (AirKone Scleral Lenses; Laboratoire LCS, Normandy, France), and 15 eyes of 10 patients with keratoconus were fitted with 16.5-mm mini-scleral lenses (Misa Lenses; Microlens Contactlens Technology, Arnhem, The Netherlands). The lens fit was evaluated with biomicroscopy and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). At 0, 2, and 4 hrs, corneal clearances were measured with AS-OCT, and optical density measurements were made by Scheimpflug tomography. High-contrast visual acuity (HCVA) and contrast sensitivity (CS) were assessed at each time point. At the end of the 4th hour, participants' comfort, visual quality, and general satisfaction were evaluated with a 5-point Likert scale and 100-mm Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scale. Results: The mean age (24.4 ± 5.4 vs. 21.7 ± 4.5, P = 0.145) and best spectacle-corrected HCVA (0.36 ± 0.15 vs. 0.35 ± 0.20, P = 0.984) were similar in both groups. The mean Snellen HCVA significantly improved with dispensing both mini-scleral lenses and remained stable at 4 hrs in both groups. In comparison, CS significantly decreased at 4 hrs in both groups (P = 0.02). Both groups' optical density significantly increased over time (P = 0.003). In the 15-mm mini-scleral lens group, the settling amount was 62.2 ± 11.9 μm (62.6%) and 99.5 ± 14.2 μm (100%) at 2 and 4 hrs, respectively; in the 16.5-mm mini-scleral lens group, it was 46.4 ± 22.3 μm (56.4%) and 82.1 ± 37.3 μm (100%) at 2 and 4 hrs, respectively. More than 50% of settling occurred in the first 2 hrs in both groups. No significant difference was observed between the two groups with regard to visual acuity, CS, optical density, and total settling amount at 4 hrs (P > 0.05). Patient in the 15-mm mini-scleral lens group scored higher in comfort (4.65 ± 0.7 vs. 3.60 ± 0.9), visual quality (4.76 ± 0.4 vs. 3.73 ± 0.7), and overall satisfaction (95.7 ± 6.0 vs. 65.3 ± 20.3) (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Patients reported a heightened level of contentment with the smaller-diameter lens; however, it is crucial to emphasize that both diameter scleral lenses showcase comparable clinical efficacy, midday fogging, and settling.

Mechanical and surface characterisation of additively manufactured polyetheretherketone for the tribo test

Purpose The additive manufacturing process, such as fused filament fabrication based on material extrusion, fabricates the samples layer-by-layer. The various parameters in the process significantly affect the dimensions, structure and mechanical properties of the fabricated parts. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the surface and mechanical properties that can affect the contact characteristics with other materials during tribological tests. Design/methodology/approach The investigation of 3D-printed Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) includes the measurement of dimensions, microhardness, surface roughness, surface energy and tensile strength to define material characteristics. The crystallinity is measured using an X-ray diffractometer to understand the hardness behaviour. Findings The printing parameters affect its surface roughness, hardness and crystallinity. This change in parameters such as layer thickness and infill density impacts mechanical properties such as hardness and surface roughness, which will influence the contact mechanism with the counter body during any tribological test. The change in a single parameter during the sample fabrication and the change in the surface and mechanical properties are observed. Research limitations/implications The material cost plays an important role in conducting numerous destructive tests, which is a major limitation to conducting parameter optimisation by varying more parameters. The study is limited to the as-fabricated samples rather than finished samples and without any heat treatment. Achieving optimal parameters is integral to the success of additive manufacturing, ensuring the production of components with consistent performance. Practical implications The study aims at the application of 3D-printed PEEK for bush or journal bearings that can be directly used in practice. The mechanical properties discussed in this paper can fill the gap between theory and practice. Social implications The research provides all fundamental properties, including the printing parameters and their effect on the dimensions and surface structure, which are required to understand the material and its use. The results are consistent as at least four samples were tested for tribological behaviour. The conclusion is updated as per suggestions. Originality/value The study outlines the relationship between the change in layer thickness and infill density with changes in surface energy, surface roughness, hardness and tensile strength. The deformation and adhesion during the friction test depend on these properties.

Using micro-CT to explore bone density variations in the skulls of the vulnerable Opsariichthys uncirostris uncirostris (Three-lips fish) during reproductive migration to a Lake Biwa tributary.

Not much is known about the changes in bone density due to fish reproductive migration. We used micro-CT and inferential statistics to determine whether the relative bone density in the skulls of adult Three-lips fish, that seasonally upstream migrated to a Lake Biwa tributary, changed across their known reproductive season. The relative bone density significantly decreased as standard length and condition factor (K) increased in both sexes. This negative relationship is likely due to age and hormonal effects in the fish. Results from the bone density analysis also revealed that male Three-lips fish had potentially lower relative bone density (although not significantly different) than females during peak reproductive migration, i.e., July to August. On average, male Three-lips fish are larger in length and weight than females, and in many species, females prefer larger males to smaller males, viewing their size as an indicator of genetic fitness and their ability to provide protection. Resources in the skulls of Three-lips males may be distributed in such a way that increases reproductive success, i.e., size at the expense of quality. In addition, individuals with slightly less dense bones, particularly males, appeared later than those with denser bones during the peak of the reproductive season. The high energy demands involved with aggression in males, often requires resource mobilization from various tissue compartments and could explain the slightly lower density in the latter half of the peak migration. Furthermore, Three-lips individuals that migrated earlier and later during the reproductive season may have more energy reserves than those that had been in the river for some time, hence the variable bone density between individuals. This study serves as a foundation for future studies on the effects of migration, changes in physiology and age on bone density analysis of Three-lips fish and other species in various ecosystems.

Posterior mediastinal extralobar pulmonary sequestration in a neonate with pulmonary artery supply: a case report

This paper reports a rare case of extralobar pulmonary sequestration in the posterior mediastinum of a neonate with arterial supply from the pulmonary artery. A 3-day-old male neonate was diagnosed with type II congenital pulmonary airway malformation after prenatal color Doppler ultrasonography showed a lesion with blood supply from the pulmonary artery in the left lung. Post-birth chest computed tomography(CT) showed that the lesion was located in the posterior mediastinum with low density change, mild stripe enhancement after contrast, and no obvious blood supply vessels. A neurogenic tumor was considered for the preoperative diagnosis. The mass was removed by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. During the surgery, the mass was observed to be a dark red solid lump with a feeding vessel originating from the pulmonary artery. The postoperative histopathological diagnosis was extralobar pulmonary sequestration. Combined with the preoperative imaging results, it was considered that the nourishing vessels might have intermittent torsion. The patient recovered well after surgery, and no recurrence was observed after 6 months of follow-up. Therefore, the possibility of extralobar pulmonary sequestration cannot be ruled out for posterior mediastinal masses that are not supplied by the descending aorta or without identified feeding vessels.