Method For Direct Visualization Research Articles

Direct visualization of microwires in hybrid depth electrodes using high-resolution photon-counting CT.

Hybrid depth electrodes are increasingly being used for epilepsy monitoring and human neurophysiology research. Microwires extending from the tip of the Behnke-Fried (BF) electrode into (sub)cortical areas allow to isolate single neurons and perform microstimulation. Conventional CT or MRI visualize the entire microwire bundle as an artifact extending from the BF electrode tip with low resolution, without proper identification of individual microwires. We illustrate the first direct visualization method of individual microwires using high-resolution photon-counting CT (PCCT). Coregistration of the PCCT scan with a preoperative MRI can visualize individual wires directly in cortex, which is an advantage as it provides feedback on the accuracy of the implantation method and can guide future implantations. This PCCT technique allows for accurately depicting individual microwires which could be relevant for neuroscientific research through improved visualization and implantation of specific cortical and subcortical brain areas. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Researchers are using hybrid depth electrodes to study epilepsy and brain activity. These electrodes, called Behnke-Fried (BF) electrodes, have microwires at the tip that can record single neurons and stimulate brain areas. Regular CT or MRI scans do not show the individual microwires clearly. The authors use a new high-resolution photon-counting CT (PCCT) technique, which can show each individual microwire in the brain. By combining PCCT with MRI, the authors can precisely see where the microwires are located. This could improve future implantation surgeries and brain research.

Visualization of Pulpal Structures by SWIR in Endodontic Access Preparation

Endodontic access preparation is one of the initial steps in root canal treatments and can be hindered by the obliteration of pulp canals and formation of tertiary dentin. Until now, methods for direct intraoperative visualization of the 3-dimensional anatomy of teeth have been missing. Here, we evaluate the use of shortwave infrared radiation (SWIR) for navigation during stepwise access preparation. Nine teeth (3 anteriors, 3 premolars, and 3 molars) were explanted en bloc with intact periodontium including alveolar bone and mucosa from the upper or lower jaw of human body donors. Analysis was performed at baseline as well as at preparation depths of 5 mm, 7 mm, and 9 mm, respectively. For reflection, SWIR was used at a wavelength of 1,550 nm from the occlusal direction, whereas for transillumination, SWIR was passed through each sample at the marginal gingiva from the buccal as well as oral side at a wavelength of 1,300 nm. Pulpal structures could be identified as darker areas approximately 2 mm before reaching the pulp chamber using SWIR transillumination, although they were indistinguishable under normal circumstances. Furcation areas in molars appeared with higher intensity than areas with canals. The location of pulpal structures was confirmed by superimposition of segmented micro–computed tomography (µCT) images. By radiomic analysis, significant differences between pulpal and parapulpal areas could be detected in image features. With hierarchical cluster analysis, both segments could be confirmed and associated with specific clusters. The local thickness of µCTs was calculated and correlated with SWIR transillumination images, by which a linear dependency of thickness and intensity could be demonstrated. Lastly, by in silico simulations of light propagation, dentin tubules were shown to be a crucial factor for understanding the visibility of the pulp. In conclusion, SWIR transillumination may allow direct clinical live navigation during endodontic access preparation.

Unveiling Colorectal Cancer Biomarkers: Harnessing Biosensor Technology for Volatile Organic Compound Detection.

Conventional screening options for colorectal cancer (CRC) detection are mainly direct visualization and invasive methods including colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy, which must be performed in a clinical setting and may be linked to adverse effects for some patients. Non-invasive CRC diagnostic tests such as computed tomography colonography and stool tests are either too costly or less reliable than invasive ones. On the other hand, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are potentially ideal non-invasive biomarkers for CRC detection and monitoring. The present review is a comprehensive presentation of the current state-of-the-art VOC-based CRC diagnostics, with a specific focus on recent advancements in biosensor design and application. Among them, breath-based chromatography pattern analysis and sampling techniques are overviewed, along with nanoparticle-based optical and electrochemical biosensor approaches. Limitations of the currently available technologies are also discussed with an outlook for improvement in combination with big data analytics and advanced instrumentation, as well as expanding the scope and specificity of CRC-related volatile biomarkers.

An improved technique for direct visualization of plasmid patterns in strains of Paenibacillus larvae

American Foulbrood disease (AFB) caused by Paenibacillus larvae is the most devastating bacterial disease affecting honey bee brood worldwide. Beekeepers have been using oxytetracycline for decades to prevent and control AFB. In some countries with high disease incidence, antibiotics are still employed with the consequent risks of the appearance of tetracycline-resistant phenotypes associated with small plasmids carrying a tetracycline-resistance gene. Techniques for plasmid visualization in Gram-positive bacteria, particularly spore-forming, are not always successful. The present study aims to improve a method for direct visualization of plasmid patterns in P. larvae and other spore-forming bacteria isolated from apiarian sources. We tested 51 P. larvae strains from different geographical areas, including tetracycline-sensitive and resistant ones. The results revealed six different plasmid profiles, named I, II, III, IV, and V. Within tetracycline-resistant strains, four strains showed pattern IV with two plasmids of 5,000 and 8,000 bp, and two strains exhibited pattern V, with bands of about 5,000, 7,000, and 8,000 bp. The plasmid band of 5,000 bp present in the six resistant strains corresponds to the tetracycline-resistance mobilizable plasmid reported for P. larvae. Within the tetracycline-sensitive phenotypes, 33 strains showed no plasmids (pattern I); while two additional profiles were detected in the rest, i.e., pattern III with three plasmids in one strain and pattern VI showing two plasmids in six strains. Patterns II, III, and VI are probably related to the presence of cryptic plasmids. In conclusion, the improved technique allows us to identify plasmid patterns in P. larvae, ensuring their reproducibility and feasibility.

A comparative study on the cosmetic outcomes of ultrasound-guided versus palpation-guided conservative breast surgery in patients with early palpable breast cancer

Background In conservative breast surgery, a larger volume of resected breast tissue is associated with a poorer cosmetic outcomes. Therefore, the introduction of ultrasonography in the excision of palpable breast cancer aims to minimize the excision of healthy tissue ensuring oncologically safe excision, and hence, a better cosmetic outcome compared with palpation-guided surgery (PGS). Aim To compare ultrasound-guided surgery (UGS) for palpable breast cancer with PGS in terms of safety margin, re-excision rate, and cosmetic outcome. Patients and methods This is a prospective, randomized, controlled study conducted on 79 female patients with early palpable breast cancer. Patients were randomized to undergo either UGS or PGS. The mean distance between the tumor and the resection margin, re-excision rate, operative time, cosmetic outcome, and patient satisfaction were assessed. Statistical analysis used Data management and statistical analysis were done using SPSS, version 28. Quantitative data were assessed for normality using the Shapiro–Wilk test and direct data visualization methods. According to normality, quantitative data were summarized as means and SDs. Categorical data were summarized as numbers and percentages. Quantitative data were compared between the studied groups using independent t test. Categorical data were compared using the χ 2 test. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to predict good to excellent patient satisfaction. All statistical tests were two-sided. P values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results The UGS group showed significantly higher excellent panel evaluation (48.7 vs. 22.5%, P=0.028) and patient satisfaction (61.5 vs. 30%). The UGS group demonstrated significantly longer operative time but significantly lower re-resection rate and distance from tumor to resection margin (0.62±0.16 vs. 1.72±0.35 cm, P<0.001). The predictors of the outcomes were tumor T stage (T2 stages associated with less satisfaction), tumor to resection margin distance (the more distance the less satisfaction), and ultrasound use. Conclusion The UGS proves to be superior to PGS as it significantly decreases re-excision rates and improves overall cosmetic outcome and patient satisfaction.

Measurement of Droplet Diameter Distribution by Direct Visualization Method and Extension of the Analytical Model for SO2 Removal in a Small Jet Scrubber

Measurement of Droplet Diameter Distribution by Direct Visualization Method and Extension of the Analytical Model for SO₂ Removal in a Small Jet Scrubber

Colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer in Egypt: a nationwide cross-sectional study

BackgroundCurrent guidelines advocate for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in adults who are at risk by using direct visualization methods such as colonoscopy. However, in Egypt, there is a paucity of data regarding the current practice of colonoscopy screening. Moreover, more information is needed about the knowledge and attitudes of potential participants regarding the procedure and possible barriers that can limit their participation.MethodsWe conducted a nationwide cross-sectional study using an interview-based survey of patients aged 45 years or above who presented to outpatient clinics of nine university hospitals throughout Egypt. Participants were surveyed to assess their compliance with CRC colonoscopy screening guidelines, their knowledge of and attitude towards colonoscopy screening, and their perspective on potential barriers to colonoscopy screening.ResultsA total of 1,453 participants responded to our survey in the nine study centers. Only a minority of participants (2.3%) were referred for CRC screening. Referral rates were higher among those who knew someone with a history of CRC (5.3% vs 1.5%, p < 0.001) or had a discussion with their physician about CRC (25.8% vs 0.7%, p < 0.001). Few responders (3.2%) had good knowledge regarding CRC screening. After introducing the concept of CRC screening to all participants, most patients (66.7%) showed a positive attitude towards having the procedure. Financial burden and fear of results were the two most frequently cited barriers to undergoing CRC screening (81.1%; and 60.1%, respecteively).ConclusionsDespite the positive attitude, there is insufficient knowledge about CRC screening among eligible participants in Egypt. This has probably contributed to low compliance with current CRC screening guidelines and needs to be addressed at the national level.

Population trend of Grey and Purple Heron in National Chambal Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh, India

Data of two species of Herons were collected, during the annual census of major aquatic fauna in the National Chambal Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh, India, over a period of 23 monitoring seasons. The survey was conducted by direct visual observation method from 1985 to 2016. During the surveys all the relevant information about the current status of Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) and Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea) in different zone of the Chambal River was complied. A total of 5318 (Avg. 443.66±242.6) individuals of Grey Heron and 104 (Avg. 8.66±4.39) individuals of Purple Heron were sighted. The highest density of Grey Heron 22.32/km was observed in zone XI and Purple Heron 0.75/km in zone III. Similarly, the least density of Grey Heron 4.82/km was in zone I, VIII and that of Purple Heron 0.07/km was in zone X. The result of the present study indicates that Chambal River continues to be a good habitat for Heron population. The Heron shares similar habitat and similar level of anthropogenic pressure in the study area. This is the first attempt to document the population status and distribution of Heron in different habitat zone of the sanctuary.

Post-harvest pest population based on observation method at bulog warehouse

Postharvest pests are the biggest problem during storage, so it is necessary to monitor for control measures. This study aims to monitor the population using two systems of monitoring methods. This research was conducted in three regencies where Bulogs rice was stored. The monitoring using namely direct and indirect method. Direct monitoring was carried out by determining five sample points diagonally, each sample point measuring 1×1 m and then directly monitoring all of the insects pest found. While indirect monitoring were carried out by taking samples using a probe with three times at each sample point and the collected rice was weighed as much as 300 grams and then count the population in the rice. Monitoring were made on comodities that had been fumigated for two months. The results showed that the highest population of postharvest pests was found in the direct visual monitoring method and the pests with the highest population was Cryptolestes, then Tribolium, and the lowest was Rhyzopertha.

Effects of particle’s surface properties and aggregation modes on water vapor competition in heterogeneous nucleation of water vapor on the particles

Heterogeneous nucleation of water vapor on particles to promote particulate abatement is widely used in the fields of industrial dust removal pretreatment technology. Water vapor competition is a very important phenomenon in the process of particles nucleation, but due to the limitations of experimental methods, this phenomenon is difficult to observe and rarely received attention. Therefore, in order to reveal the influence of water vapor competition on particles nucleation, a direct visualization method based on the Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope (ESEM) is proposed in this work to obtain the water vapor competition process during particles nucleation at a microscopic scale. Firstly the effect of particle’s surface structure on water vapor competition in heterogeneous nucleation of water vapor on the particles is visualized by the ESEM. The results show that the embryo appears randomly at any edge of the smooth spherical particle because water vapor competition at each point on the particle’s surface is equal. While the embryo always appears on the protuberance of the convex spherical particle since water vapor competition is strongest there. Then the influence of particle’s surface energy on water vapor competition is also visualized. Water vapor preferentially nucleates on the particle with smaller contact angle, which means the higher the surface energy, the more conducive it is for water vapor competition to form embryos. Finally, the impact of particle’s aggregation modes on water vapor competition is also visualized by the ESEM. The results show that when the vapor supersaturation is constant, water vapor only nucleates on the two-close and three-circled particles while particles nucleation on the single particle is never observed. This is due to the strong water vapor competition at the particle’s junction, where the embryos will collide and coalesce to form an embryo larger than the critical size to activate particles nucleation. The results of this study will deepen the microscopic understanding of water vapor competition in the process of particles nucleation.

Possibilities of cholangioscopy in the diagnosis of primary sclerosing cholangitis

Diagnosis of the genesis of bile duct strictures is a complex task facing clinicians. The use of cholangioscopy, in particular, the SpyGlass system, is becoming increasingly relevant among oncological patients in case of unsuccessful attempts at previous morphological verification. The presented clinical case demonstrates the capabilities of cholangioscopy as a method of direct visualization of the duct system with the ability to perform a biopsy under vision control in the verification of such a pathology as primary sclerosing cholangitis. Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a rare disease of the biliary tract that requires a systematic approach to diagnosis. The primary task is to identify the etiology of strictures and early diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma.

Feasibility of maximum probable number method for the quantification of microplastics in environmental samples

This study introduces the maximum probable number (MPN) method for the quantification of microplastic items (MPI) using samples with dilute MPI concentrations. The MPN method does not rely on counting individual MPI in the sample; instead, it determines the maximum probable numbers of MPI based on the no MPI capture probability (NMCP) among replicated sampling from a dilute solution. The key parameters of MPN include the MPI concentration, the sampling volume (SV), the SV level (SVL) (the number of SV), and the number of replicates at each SV. The comparison of the results obtained from visual counting and the MPN test demonstrated that MPN is a reliable method for MPI quantification. The optimal NMCP range was determined to be between 0.7 to 0.95, which can be used as a control factor for the determination of the appropriate MPI concentration and SVs for the MPN quantification of MPI. The MPN method uses dilute solutions for MPN quantification, it accounts for random variation of sampling, and avoids direct number counting. Thus, it is a more reliable, simpler, and less laborious MPI quantification method compared to the direct visual number counting method.

Regular Flow Field Sparse Processing and Blue Finance of Ocean City Research Based on GIS System

In order to explore the development path of blue finance in ocean cities, this paper combines GIS to conduct blue finance research in ocean cities, draws on the traditional direct visualization method of point icons, and uses arrow symbols to render vector flow field data. Moreover, this paper uses GIS means to perform statistical analysis on flow field data, studies the adaptive sparse algorithm of flow field data spatial structure based on GIS, and proposes a program implementation method for regular flow field sparse processing suitable for the general flow of the sparse algorithm. The experimental research shows that the GIS technology proposed in this paper can play an important role in the research of blue finance in ocean cities and has a certain role in promoting the development of ocean blue finance.

Revealing the Adverse Effects of Trace Amount Broad‐Spectrum Antimicrobial: a Direct and Sensitive Visualization Method Based on Carbon Nanoprobe

AbstractThe widespread use of broad‐spectrum antimicrobials has accelerated their entry into aquatic environment, which in turn can adversely affect aquatic organisms and humans, especially in the COVID‐19 outbreak and the post‐pandemic era. For early detection and intervention of adverse effects, this study develops a new carbon nanoprobe (CNP) that can reveal the adverse effects of trace amount triclosan (TCS), a commonly used broad‐spectrum antimicrobial (BSA), through a direct visualization method. CNP has excellent fluorescent properties and strong positive charges, which can be applied as fluorescent indicator and trapped in mitochondria by electrostatic attraction. The highly sensitive responsiveness of CNP to mitochondrial membrane potential ensures the visualization method can be used for monitoring the adverse effects of TCS. The trace amount TCS monitoring is achieved according to the decrease of fluorescence signal in mitochondria and the change of mitochondrial morphological structure from lines to dots. Moreover, monitoring TCS level in aquatic organisms of zebrafish is further realized. Compared with the morphological toxicity test, this visualizing strategy reveals the adverse effects in organisms under low‐dose TCS exposure more sensitively. This developed highly sensitive nanoprobe is cruical for direct BSA monitoring and thus prevents the harm of BSA to aquatic organisms and humans.

Effect of different irrigation activation techniques on irrigation penetration into the simulated lateral canals.

This study, in which a hundred human teeth with single straight canal were used, focused on the evaluation of contrast solution penetration ability into the simulated lateral canals activated by XP-endo Finisher (XPF), EDDY, Nd:YAG, and Er:YAG laser systems with three different observation methods. The root canals were prepared up to X4 at working length using the ProTaper Next system. The teeth were decalcified and simulated lateral canals were created with #8K-file at 2, 4, and 6mm levels. Then the teeth were cleared using methyl salicylate and divided into 5 equal groups according to irrigation activation techniques (CSI, XPF, EDDY, Nd:YAG, and Er:YAG laser). After the contrast solution was activated, images of the simulated lateral canals were obtained by a dental microscope, digital radiography, and CBCT. The contrast solution penetration scores at the 2, 4, and 6mm levels according to irrigation activation techniques and observation methods were analyzed statistically using Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric analysis of variance Bonferroni test post hoc comparisons. With the other 2 parameters are ignored, the highest and lowest contrast solution penetration were observed at 6 and 2mm simulated lateral canal levels (p < 0.05), in Er:YAG irrigation activation and CSI technique (p < 0.05), and in direct visual and digital radiographic observation method (p < 0.05), respectively. Within the limits of this study, it was determined that the contrast solution penetration into the simulated lateral canals decreased from the coronal to the apical and achieved with the most effective Er:YAG laser activation technique. In addition, direct visual observation was found to be the best method for the assessment of contrast solution penetration.

Use of hydrogen bonded layer-by-layer assemblies for particle manipulation

With the constant progress in miniaturization of systems and devices, the manipulation of µ-objects is becoming increasingly important. Chemical functionalization is a promising way to improve this manipulation, in particular multilayer polymer films based on hydrogen bonds can allow to achieve reversible adhesion of µ-objects. To prepare such hydrogen-bonded Layer-by-Layer (LbL) films, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), Tannic acid (TA) and Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) carboxylic acid-terminated (PNIPAM) were selected due to their hydrogen donor or acceptor properties. The growth of these films was originally confirmed by in situ optical reflectometry. Their erasability was also investigated by exposure to an aqueous solution with a pH gradient. Depending on the polymer couple, the pH of disintegration was adjusted from an acidic to a basic medium. The surface roughness was also affected by the building block of the LbL architecture since a rougher surface was recorded for PEG/TA than for PEG/PAA. To mimic the manipulation of an object, adsorption and desorption of a model object (silica particles) was carried out onto a LbL film. Two approaches were employed: optical reflectometry as an indirect method and optical microscopy for direct visualization. For both analyses, particles of different sizes could be adsorbed onto a PEG/PAA or PAA/PNIPAM film. Finally, a complete desorption of the particles was recorded due to the disintegration of the LbL film when the pH was increased.

MAMÍFEROS DE MÉDIO E GRANDE PORTE EM FRAGMENTO DE CERRADO, MINAS GERAIS, BRASIL

The state of Minas Gerais has already lost more than half of the original Cerrado coverage. Mammals are among the beings most affected by this. Fauna inventories are essential for future conservation actions. In this sense, between July 2018 and December 2020, the richness and composition of medium and large mammals in a Cerrado fragment in the central-west of Minas Gerais were evaluated, using direct visualization methods (464 hours of searches) and camera traps (380 night traps). Were recorded 28 wild species, including seven threatened species, two of which are globally threatened. Carnivora was the most representative order (12 species), followed by Cingulata and Primates (4 each). The richness found was superior to other fragments and similar to nearby protected areas a dozen times larger. The fragment and the high species richness studied, including endangered species and large predators, suffer anthropic pressure, requiring short-term measures for their conservation

Quality and usability of clinical assessments of static standing and sitting posture: A systematic review.

A validated method to assess sitting and standing posture in a clinical setting is needed to guide diagnosis, treatment and evaluation of these postures. At present, no systematic overview of assessment methods, their clinimetric properties, and usability is available. The objective of this study was to provide such an overview and to interpret the results for clinical practice. A systematic literature review was performed according to international guidelines. Two independent reviewers assessed risk of bias, clinimetric values of the assessment methods, and their usability. Quality of evidence and strength of recommendations were determined according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation working group (GRADE). Out of 27,680 records, 41 eligible studies were included. Thirty-two assessment instruments were identified, clustered into five categories. The methodological quality of 27 (66%) of the articles was moderate to good. Reliability was most frequently studied. Little information was found about validity and none about responsiveness. Based on a moderate level of evidence, a tentative recommendation can be made to use a direct visual observation method with global posture recorded by a trained observer applying a rating scale.

Cover Image

The cover image is based on the Practice and Policy A novel computer‐aided method for direct measurements and visualization of gingival margin changes by Marko Kuralt et al., https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpe.13573. image

Avian Diversity and Their Feeding Guild Structure in Temperate Forests of Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India

The study on avian diversity and their feeding guild structure with relation to their habitat use in temperate forest of district Pauri Garhwal was carried out between April 2015 to March 2017. Lines transect and direct visual methods were used to record the bird species diversity, their feeding habit and habitats. Frequent surveys were made in the study area and birds were counted. During the study period, a total of 152 species of birds belonging to 9 order and 43 families were recorded. The highest diversity index was recorded at Kandoliya (H¯= 3.98±0.06) and Adwani was recorded with minimum diversity (H¯= 3.34±0.08). The average bird diversity index at all sites was recorded as (H¯= 3.57±0.11). Further, on the basis of their feeding guilds the recorded birds were categorized into the six major categories such as insectivore (55.92%), omnivore (13.81%), grainivores (5.92%), carnivore (9.21%), nectarivorous (1.31), frugivore (5.92%) and 7.91% species remained unidentified. The insectivore guild was dominant in all the guild structures.