Total Length Research Articles

Codon Usage Characteristics and Evolutionary Analysis of Mitochondrial Genome of Winter Squash (Cucurbita maxima Duch.)

Mitochondrial genomes are essential components of eukaryotic cells, understanding their structural characteristics and codon usage bias is critical. Winter squash (Cucurbita maxima Duch ex Poiret) is an economically important cucurbit crop. To clarify its structural characteristics and codon usage bias of mitochondrial genome, as well as the evolutionary characteristics in the Cucurbitaceae family, whole genome sequencing analysis of C. maxima mitochondrial genome was carried out. The results revealed that the total length of the C. maxima mitochondrial genome was 640,814 bp, containing 9,162,318,300 bp of bases. There were 68 annotated genes identified. The mitochondrial coding genes of C. maxima exhibited an average GCall content of 42.57%, with the last position enriched in A/T bases. Codon usage analysis indicated weak codon bias, with the effective codon number (ENC) ranging from 44.22 to 61.00. Correlation analysis and neutrality plot analysis demonstrated a nonsignificant correlation between GC3 and GC12. PR2-plot and ENC-plot analysis further supported the influence of natural selection on the codon preference in the C. maxima mitochondrial genome. Relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) analysis identified 19 optimal codons, with a preference for U or A as the final base. The analysis of scattered repeat sequences in the genome indicated a high frequency of forward and palindromic repeats in the C. maxima mitochondrial genome. Nucleic acid diversity analysis highlighted rpl5 as the gene with the highest variability. Comparative analysis of mitochondrial structure and phylogenetic tree analysis revealed a close evolutionary relationship between C. maxima and Cucurbita pepo, showing synteny in evolution. Homologous fragment analysis demonstrated a similarity of over 70% between the C. maxima mitochondrial genome and chloroplast genome fragments. These findings provide a foundation for C. maxima identification and phylogenetic studies.

EXPRESS: Cost Optimization in Cloud Computing: Capacity Reservation for Intermittent Random Demand Surges

The adoption of cloud computing has been accelerating over the last decade, while enterprise cloud users (“firms”) are struggling to manage their growing cloud expenditures in the face of intermittent digital demand surges caused by planned or random events. To deal with such challenges, a firm can employ reserved instances with the standard contract length (e.g., one year) to meet the stationary base demand, which we refer to as the base contracts, complemented by additional reserved instances with either standard or shorter contract lengths, which we refer to as the supplementary contracts, to cope with the demand surges. We first analyze a model whereby the surge and inter-surge durations are deterministic, demand magnitude is random, and cancellation of the reservations is allowed. We develop a capacity management plan for the firm including not only the optimal capacity levels, which follow a newsvendor-type solution, but also the optimal policy for managing the purchase, renewal, cancellation, or expiration of the supplementary contracts, which can be characterized as a two-threshold policy. Due to the complexity of the structure of the optimal policy, we also construct an effective heuristic policy by excluding the renewal option from the action space, which can be applied to a more general setting where the surge and inter-surge durations are random. We examine two model extensions: (1) when trades of reserved instances are allowed in a secondary marketplace; (2) when the firm does not have exact information about the distributions of the surge magnitude and duration while it can adjust the capacity levels as data unveils. Our analysis shows that the optimal policy for managing the supplementary contracts depends on the relative magnitude of the surge and inter-surge durations in relationship to the cancellation fee. Moreover, our numerical results show that cloud platforms that offer a secondary marketplace are more attractive to firms from a cost standpoint than those that allow cancellation only. The latter, without the secondary marketplace, however, can achieve parity with the former by offering a deeper discount rate for the reserved instances, thereby bypassing the cost of administering the secondary marketplace.

Size structure, age, and growth of the blue shark, Prionace glauca (Linnaeus, 1758) in southern Brazil.

The blue shark is a highly migratory species with a worldwide distribution, making it susceptible to multiple fishing fleets across the globe. In southern Brazil, it is an important target, comprising up to 40% of the total biomass landed by the commercial surface longline fleet. This study aims to contribute to a better understanding of how the species uses the region and to update its life-history information available for future assessments. Over five consecutive years (2018-2022) of landings and onboard monitoring, we gathered size data and vertebral samples to describe the species size composition in the region, as well as its seasonal and interannual variability and to update estimated life-history parameters. The results showed that southern Brazil is mainly inhabited by large juvenile males that arrive during winter (July-September) and stay until spring (October-December), when their frequency decreases. Small adult males are present throughout the year but in higher frequencies during summer. A small number of adult females are present with higher frequencies during spring and summer, which decreases during the austral autumn and winter. Some variability in the presence of each life stage was observed among years. The estimated life-history parameters were as follows: L∞: 255.02 cm fork length (FL), k: 0.20, L0:35.68 cm FL for males; L∞: 246.47 cm FL, k: 0.23, L0:36.77 cm FL for females; and L∞: 269.58 cm FL, k: 0.18, L0:36.19 cm FL for pooled sexes. However, the estimated values must be cautiously interpreted, as the obtained samples cannot be construed as representative of the entire harvested stock due to the lack of consistent presence of some life stages in the study region.

Establishment of Bull Trout in a previously fishless subalpine lake by translocation

AbstractObjectiveTranslocations have increased in recent years to aid in species recovery efforts. This includes translocations outside of species' historical distribution, where threats are less severe. One candidate species for translocation is the Bull Trout Salvelinus confluentus, but few examples of successful translocations (re‐establishment or range expansion) have been documented. Here, we describe an example in which 63 Bull Trout were translocated in 1987 to establish a population in fishless Marie Lake, Alberta.MethodsThe translocation was monitored through multiple sampling events over the course of 33 years. Sampling techniques included backpack electrofishing, angling, and water quality and habitat assessments.ResultA population estimate suggested that Bull Trout increased by at least fourfold over the first 12 years; fish reached large sizes (692 mm fork length) and old ages (13 years), and the population had multiple age‐ and length‐classes, including juveniles. Bull Trout also had become established within at least 13 km of river outside of Marie Lake by 2019.ConclusionAlthough a naturally reproducing population of this at‐risk species was established, numerous factors were not considered within this translocation initiative. Most importantly, nonadfluvial Bull Trout from a disparate source population located about 4000 river kilometers away were used for the translocation. Our case study represents a rare example of a successful Bull Trout translocation and highlights considerations that should occur prior to future translocations that are intended to aid in species recovery and preservation.

Equivalent revision rates and patient reported outcomes with routine use of a short (125mm) cemented stem for total hip arthroplasty compared to a standard length (150mm) cemented stem. A two surgeon series of 1335 patients.

Routine total hip arthroplasty (THA) using a short cemented stem as compared with a standard length cemented stem may have benefits in terms of stress distribution, bone preservation, stem subsidence and ease of revision surgery. Two senior arthroplasty surgeons transitioned their routine femoral implant from a standard 150mm Exeter V40 cemented stem to a short 125mm Exeter V40 cemented stem for all patients over the course of several years. We analysed revision rates, adjusted survival, and PROMS scores for patients who received a standard stem and a short stem in routine THA. All THAs performed by the two surgeons between January 2011 and December 2021 were included. All procedures were performed using either a 150mm or 125mm Exeter V40 stem. Demographic data, acetabular implant type, and outcome data including implant survival, reason for revision, and post-operative Oxford Hip Scores were obtained from the New Zealand Joint Registry (NZJR), and detailed survival analyses were performed. Primary outcome was revision for any reason. Reason for revision, including femoral or acetabular failure, and time to revision were also recorded. 1335 THAs were included. 516 using the 150mm stem and 819 using the 125mm stem. There were 4055.5 and 3227.8 component years analysed in the standard stem and short stem groups respectively due to a longer mean follow up in the 150mm group. Patient reported outcomes were comparable across all groups. Revision rates were comparable between the standard 150mm stem (0.44 revisions/100 component years) and the short 125mm stem (0.56 revisions/100 component years) with no statistically significant difference found (p = 0.240). Routine use of a short 125mm stem had no statistically significant impact on revision rate or PROMS scores when compared to a standard 150mm stem. There may be benefits to routine use of a short cemented femoral implant.

Heritability and predictive ability for the heterobothriosis resistance and growth performance in the tiger pufferfish Takifugu rubripes fed standard or low fishmeal diets

Heterobothriosis resistance and high growth performance are major concerns in the tiger pufferfish (Takifugu rubripes) farming. Our previous small-scale study suggested the feasibility of genomic selection (GS) for these traits but also identified an undesired genetic correlation between them, which could hamper simultaneous genetic improvement. Here, we sought to validate these initial findings through larger samples and crosses and also explore the potential of GS for the individuals fed a normal fishmeal diet and a low fishmeal (LFM) diet. We produced three populations: one was fed a normal diet (PopFM: 1100 individuals) and two were fed an LFM diet (PopLFM1: 993 individuals; PopLFM2: 1017 individuals); all three populations were artificially infected with Heterobothrium okamotoi, a monogenean parasite causing heterobothriosis. We recorded standard lengths of the fish after artificial infection (SLEAI) and the number of parasites on the gill cavity wall (HC) and genotyped genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using genotyping by random amplicon sequencing, direct (GRAS-Di) technology for each sample: PopFM, 12 K SNPs; PopLFM1, 19 K SNPs; PopLFM2, 21 K SNPs. Heritability and prediction ability for each trait were estimated for each population using genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP), Bayes C, and Bayesian ridge regression methods. SNP effects on each trait were estimated by Bayes C, Bayesian ridge regression, and genome-wide association analyses (GWAS) using the same data sets. We observed moderate to high levels of heritability for HC (0.16–0.57) and SLEAI (0.50–0.77), with predictive ability of 0.25–0.55 for HC and of 0.51–0.73 for SLEAI. These values were slightly larger in LFM diet groups. As reported previously, a weak undesired genetic correlation was observed between the traits, and the correlation was more pronounced in the LFM groups. In conclusion, our results indicate that genetic gain in growth and parasite resistance traits can be expected for the tiger pufferfish through GS, especially for individuals reared on an LFM diet. However, close attention should be paid to the extent of the undesirable genetic correlation between the two traits that may be amplified in the populations fed an LFM diet.

452 Leg Flexion to Overcome Gaps for Direct Sciatic Nerve Repair: An Anatomic Study

INTRODUCTION: Direct nerve repairs fare better than grafted nerves, especially for large caliber nerves. Numerous surgical techniques are used to achieve tension-free end-to-end repairs for large gaps in the sciatic nerve (SN) and common peroneal nerve (CPN), including distal nerve mobilization, transposition, side-branch neurectomy, or even shortening of the femur with distraction osteogenesis. However, leg flexion with serial distraction is the simplest, least morbid, and most easily implemented technique. METHODS: Eight fresh cadavers with pelvis intact were dissected to determine the relationship between degrees of knee flexion (ranged from 0 to 90-degree flexion) and the gap length overcome with nerve excursion. Additional excursion from SN side-branch neurectomy was also assessed. RESULTS: We found an approximately linear relationship between knee flexion and nerve excursion. In the mid-thigh there was 7-9 mm of SN excursion per 10 degrees of flexion, and 10-11 mm of SN excursion per 10 degrees of flexion with neurectomy. There was 11-13 mm of CPN excursion per 10 degrees of flexion in the distal half of the thigh. CONCLUSIONS: Knee flexion can significantly augment the ability to achieve an end-to-end repair of the SN and CPN. Simplified, each 10 degrees of knee flexion provides about 1 cm of additional length for both nerves, which is essentially constant throughout the arc of flexion. Neurectomy allows approximately 1-2 cm in total additional length at full flexion in fresh cadavers. Approximately 10 cm total excursion can be gained at 90-degree knee flexion with side-branch neurectomies. We recommend 45-90 days of progressive extension to respect the safe regeneration timing of 1-2 mm/day from a repair performed with 90-degree knee flexion.

Effects of structured protocolized physical therapy on the duration of mechanical ventilation in patients with prolonged weaning

Purpose20% of patients with mechanical ventilation (MV) have a prolonged, complex weaning process, often experiencing a condition of ICU-acquired weakness (ICUAW), with a severe decrease in muscle function and restricted long-term prognosis. We aimed to analyze a protocolized, systematic approach of physiotherapy in prolonged weaning patients and hypothesized that the duration of weaning from MV would be shortened. MethodsICU patients with prolonged weaning were included before (group 1) and after (group 2) introduction of a quality control measure of a structured and protocolized physiotherapy program. Primary endpoint was the tested dynamometric handgrip strength and the Surgical Intensive Care Unit Optimal Mobilization Score (SOMS). Secondary endpoints were weaning success rate, ventilator-free days, hospital mortality, the prevalence of ICUAW, infections and delirium. Results106 patients were included. Both the SOMS and the handgrip test were significantly improved after introducing the program. Despite no differences in weaning success rates at discharge, the total length of MV was significantly shorter in group 2, which also had lower prevalence of infection and higher probability of survival. ConclusionsProtocolized, systematic physiotherapy resulted in an improvement of the clinical outcome in patients with prolonged weaning. Results were objectifiable with the SOMS and the handgrip test.

A new loach species of the genus Oreonectes (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae) from Guangxi, China.

A new loach species, Oreonectesandongensissp. nov. is described from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. The new species can be differentiated from other members of the genus by combinations of characters: a developed posterior chamber of the swim bladder, 13-14 branched caudal-fin rays, 8-16 lateral-line pores, body width 12-15% of standard length (SL), interorbital width 42-47% of head length (HL), and caudal peduncle length 11-16% of SL. Bayesian inference phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial Cyt b provided strong support for validity of O.andongensissp. nov. (uncorrected p-distance 6.0-7.5%).

Adjusting Current Hemoglobin Thresholds: A Way to Improve Outcome in Women Undergoing Major Surgery.

Background/Objective: In the perioperative setting, a suboptimal total hemoglobin (Hb) mass puts women and men at an unreasonable disadvantage. Anemia is an independent risk factor for transfusion, postoperative complications, and mortality. The Hb cut-off value for women was set at <12.0 g/dL by the World Health Organization (WHO) and has been rigorously debated for decades. The aim of this study was to elucidate the risk for postoperative complications in female patients with Hb levels < 12.0, 12.0-12.9, and ≥13.0 g/dL. Material and Methods: Single-center retrospective analysis of female patients undergoing major surgery. Results: In total, 6,516 patients ≥18 years of age had major surgery between 2018 and 2019 and 2,446 female patients were included in analysis. Mean age was 67.4 ± 16.6, 66.4 ± 15.6, and 64.5 ± 15.5 years in female patients with preoperative Hb levels <12.0, 12.0-12.9 and ≥13.0 g/dL, respectively. The transfusion rate of red blood cells (RBCs) was significantly higher in female patients with Hb <12.0 g/dL (53%) and with Hb 12.0-12.9 g/dL (31%) compared to female patients ≥13.0 g/dL (22%). Rates of pneumonia, acute kidney injury, and sepsis were significantly higher in patients with Hb <12.0 and 12.0-12.9 g/dL compared to patients with Hb ≥13.0 g/dL. Total length of hospital stay was significantly longer in female patients with Hb <12.0 g/dL than patients with Hb 12.0-12.9 g/dL and Hb ≥13.0 g/dL (10 days vs. 8 days). Conclusion: Taken together, our data show that Hb values below 12.9 g/dL are associated with increased probability of RBC transfusions and increased risk of postoperative complications. In addition, our results indicate that postoperative outcomes for women might be optimized by increasing cut-off values for anemia. The call to revise the anemia threshold for women by the WHO can no longer be disregarded.

Size Variation Survey of the Family of Cichlids in Lower River Benue

This study was designed to determine the size variations of the family of Cichlids in lower river Benue. The fish samples were collected bimonthly in batches for a period of three months (September- November, 2023). A total of 120 fishes comprising 60 each of Tilapia zilli and Oreochromis niloticus were sampled from fishermen at the Wadata landing site during this period. The fish sampled were transported in an ice-parked plastic container to the Fisheries laboratory in order to keep the integrity of the sample intact prior to analysis. The species were identified using taxonomic keys and morphometric parameters recorded. The results obtained shows the parameters of Oreochromis niloticus and Tilapia zilli as the cichlids species caught. The mean weight (53.70±3.13), mean length (14.09±0.28) and the mean standard length (11.13±0.24) of Tilapia Zilli was observed to be greater than the mean weight (43.01±2.17), mean length (12.83±2.0.21) and mean standard length (10.17±0.81) of Oreochromis niloticus. The results obtained reveals that the morphometry of Tillapia zilli is higher in their Morphometric measurements as compared to Oreochromis niloticus.  This study therefore provides valuable information on the morphological characteristics in relation to the body weight of these two Cichlids for the sustainable management of fisheries in Lower River Benue, Makurdi and Nigeria at large.

Biological Parameters and Spermatogenesis in Razorfish (Pelecus cultratus) Population Inhabiting the Largest Shallow Lake of Central Europe (Lake Balaton): Studies for In Vitro Conservation Purposes

The study aimed to investigate body parameters and the process of spermatogenesis from April to September. In addition, it sought to test the applicability of sperm cryopreservation for conservation purposes in a razorfish (Pelecus cultratus) population of Lake Balaton, the largest shallow lake in Central Europe. During the aforementioned period, measurements were taken for the standard length (SL, cm) and body weight (BW, g), and the sex of specimens was determined. Cells at different stages of spermatogenesis (spermatogonia-SG, spermatocytes-SC, spermatids-ST, and spermatozoa-SZ) were quantified monthly for each male sample. Sperm samples collected at the end of May were cryopreserved using a method designed for common carp. No significant differences were found between males (SL: 25 ± 2 cm and BW: 146 ± 38 g) and females (SL: 26 ± 3 cm and BW: 168 ± 53 g) in terms of measured body parameters. No significant correlations were found between the sex, SL, and BW. High standard deviations were observed for all mean values in all sampling periods, possibly due to the low number of individual samples per month. A significantly higher proportion of SC compared to SZ was found in April. In May, no differences were observed between the four groups. Significantly more SG and SZ than SC and ST were observed in June. In August and September, a slight dominance in the number of SG was recorded, with no differences measured among the cells in different developmental stages. The males studied exhibited a low gonadosomatic index (0.92% ± 0.27%). A significant reduction was recorded in motility (MOT), progressive motility (pMOT), and in most of the kinetic parameters (distance curved line-DCL, curvilinear velocity-VCL, straight line velocity-VSL, and beat cross frequency-BCF). The spermiation of males could have started in May and conceivably lasted until the end of June. It is recommended to increase sperm quality and quantity before cryopreservation.

Abstract 5400: CD160 regulates angiogenesis in activated human endothelial cells

Abstract Angiogenesis, the process of forming new blood vessels from pre-existing ones, plays a pivotal role in various physiological and pathological conditions. CD160, a cell surface receptor known for its modulatory function in the immune response, has recently garnered attention as a surface marker for activated endothelial cells. In this study, we investigate the anti-angiogenic effects of a novel anti-CD160 antibody. Using the tube formation assay, we evaluated the novel anti-CD160 antibody's ability to inhibit neovascularization potential in activated Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in vitro. Our results revealed a significant reduction in total tube length, the number of branches, and closed networks, indicating the antibody's efficacy in impeding neovascularization. In addition, we explored the molecular mechanisms underlying CD160's anti-angiogenic properties, showing its ability to selectively decrease fibroblast growth factor-2-induced angiogenesis. Furthermore, we assessed the safety profile of our new anti-CD160 antibody by examining its impact on endothelial cell apoptosis. Encouragingly, our findings demonstrated no induction of apoptosis, suggesting the antibody's selective targeting of angiogenic processes without compromising endothelial cell viability, thus supporting CD160's vascular normalization properties. In conclusion, our research provides compelling evidence for the anti-angiogenic effects of the CD160 antibody, as evidenced by its inhibition of tube formation without inducing apoptosis in activated endothelial cells. These findings hold promising therapeutic implications for targeting angiogenesis in various pathological conditions, warranting further exploration for potential clinical applications. Keywords: CD160, Angiogenesis, Endothelial cells. HUVECs. Citation Format: Abdel-ilah AZIZ. CD160 regulates angiogenesis in activated human endothelial cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 5400.

Age and growth of larval Pacific flagfin mojarra (Eucinostomus currani) in coastal Ecuador based on otolith analysis

The flagfin mojarra (Eucinostomus currani) is an important subsistence fishery resource in local Ecuadorian markets; however, very little is known about the early life history and reproductive biology of this species. In 2016 and 2017, E. currani larvae were collected at 3 sandy beaches in the Gulf of Guayaquil, Ecuador, and identified using DNA barcoding. Standard lengths ranged from 4.00–15.78 mm. We also collected otoliths to better understand the early life history of E. currani. Otoliths were used to estimate the age, population growth rate (±SE), hatch dates, and reproductive period. On average, the fish were 16.5 ± 4.5 days old, while the average growth rate was 0.70 ± 0.05 and 0.22 ± 0.16 mm per day in March and May, respectively. In the Gulf of Guayaquil, most hatch dates and the presumed reproductive activity of E. currani occurred during the wet season (December–April) when warmer water prevailed. To our knowledge, this is the first study to estimate the hatch dates and larval growth rate for a species of the family Gerreidae in the Pacific Ocean.

Quantitative anatomy of the extensor digiti minimi muscle in the growing human fetus.

Introduction Age-specific reference intervals for the extensor digiti minimi muscle (EDMM) in the human fetus may be relevant in the detailed evaluation of the musculoskeletal systems with potential relevant aspects for surgical treatment. The aim of the study was to examine the age-specific reference intervals and growth dynamics of the EDMM in relation to its length, width, projection surface area and volume. Material and methods The examined material included 70 human formalin-fixed fetuses of both sexes (37♀, 33♂) aged from 17 to 29 weeks. With the use of anatomical dissection every EDMM was visualized, recorded in a form of JPG formats and analyzed by the digital image analysis system and statistical methods. Results No variability of the EDMM was found. All the morphometric parameters of the EDMM revealed neither sex nor laterality differences. With fetal age most linear parameters of the EDMM concerning its examined lengths and widths increased in accordance with natural logarithmic functions. The only two exceptions to this referred to the belly width of EDMM measured at its mid-length and the tendon width of EDMM measured proximal to the extensor retinaculum of wrist, which both followed square root functions. The projection surface areas of the EDMM followed natural logarithmic functions, while the volumetric growth of the EDMM was proportionate to fetal age. Conclusions The variability of the EDMM in the human fetus is minimal. The morphometric data of the EDMM represents age-specific reference intervals of clinical significance. Morphometric parameters of the EDMM reveal neither sex nor laterality differences. The EDMM displays three different growth dynamics: from gradual growth deceleration according to both natural logarithmic functions (total length of the muscle and its tendons, belly length, tendon lengths, belly width at its origin, tendon width at its insertion, and projection surface areas) and square root functions (belly width at its mid-length and tendon width in the pre-retinacular segment) to a proportionate growth (total volume).

Significant correlation between leaf vein length per unit area and stomatal density: evidence from Red Tip and Chinese photinias.

The vascular veins in photosynthetic leaves play an important role in transporting water and sugars throughout the plant body, and their venation pattern and vein density determine the hydraulic efficiency of the leaf. Likewise, stomatal density (SD) can influence photosynthetic gas exchange. However, the correlation between leaf vein density and SD is seldom reported. Herein, we examined 16 leaves from the hybrid Photinia × fraseri and 16 leaves from one of its parents, P. serratifolia, to explore the correlation between leaf vein density and SD. For each leaf, equidistant lamina quadrats were excised along two longitudinal transects (one along the midrib and another along the leaf margin). For each quadrat, micrographs of 1.2mm × 0.9mm stomatal imprints, and 2.51mm × 1.88mm micrographs of leaf veins were used to measure total vein area per leaf unit area (VAA) and total vein length per unit area (VLA), as indicators of leaf vein density, to determine the correlation between SD and leaf vein density. For each taxon, there was no significant correlation between SD and VAA, but there was a significant correlation between SD and VLA. The data indicate that SD is not positively correlated with VAA but positively correlated with VLA for both the hybrid and the parent species. This study indicates that future work should focus on the relationships between SD and total vein length per unit area rather than on total leaf vein area per unit area within and across species.

Effect of Light Intensity on Zebra Fish (Danio rerio) Cell Regeneration

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is one of the model animals in cell regeneration studies because it has a high ability to regenerate tissue structures, one of which is its caudal fin. This study was conducted to determine the different light interventions on the regeneration of the caudal fin of zebrafish. The research method used is an experimental study with the observed parameters, including specific growth, absolute weight gain, length increase, and survival. A total of 28 male wild-type zebrafish were used in this study at the age of 3 months. The amputated zebrafish on its caudal fin was placed at different light intensities (control, 0 lux, 60 lux, and 90 lux). Parameter measurements were carried out every two days. ANOVA analyzed the data obtained with a significance level of 95%. The results showed that at a light intensity of 90 lux, the zebrafish tail fin regeneration was the most significant based on an increase in total length of 0.10 mm. Using a light intensity of 90 lux is the best condition in the regeneration process of the zebrafish caudal fin. The research findings could be further applied in the healing process of external wounds.

Physiological, temporal, and environmental determinants of dry energy densities of low trophic-level fishes in the Gulf of Mexico

Low trophic-level fishes provide a link to higher trophic-level animals, including birds, mammals, and economically valuable fishes. Despite their role, the dry energy density (DED) of these fishes and its variability have not been described in the northern Gulf of Mexico (nGOM). To address this, we describe species-specific DED for four fish species in the nGOM: Atlantic Croaker (Micropogonias undulatus), Gulf Menhaden (Brevoortia patronus), White Trout (Cynoscion arenarius), and Bay Anchovy (Anchoa mitchilli). We investigated the impacts of body length, life stage (juvenile and adult), month of collection, and river discharge from the Mississippi River to determine the response of DED for Atlantic Croaker and Gulf Menhaden. Using bomb calorimetry, we found that the DED of Atlantic Croaker ranged from 3021 to 6445 calories/g (mean = 4524 ± 646 calories/g SD, n = 129), Gulf Menhaden DED ranged from 2578 to 6821 calories/g (mean = 5069 calories/g ± 794 SD, n = 193), White Trout DED ranged from 3118 to 4581 calories/g (mean = 4120 calories/g ± 358 SD, n = 30), and Bay Anchovy DED ranged from 3925 to 4387 calories/g (mean = 4261 ± 126 calories/g SD, n = 74). The mean DED of Gulf Menhaden and Atlantic Croaker varied and was at a minimum during the fall. The DED of Gulf Menhaden and Atlantic Croaker were linearly, positively, and significantly (α = 0.05) related to fork length (R2 = 0.23 and R2 = 0.32, respectively). The flow rate of the Mississippi River was not a significant predictor of the DED of juvenile or adult Gulf Menhaden but was a significant predictor of the DED of adult Atlantic Croaker (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.04). The species-specific energy density values and the variations due to the month of collection, environmental conditions, and physiological variation will serve to inform ecosystem models.

Surgical and medical outcomes in robotic compared to laparoscopic colectomy global prospective cohort from the American college of surgeons national surgical quality improvement program.

Evidence regarding the outcomes benefits of robotic approach, when compared to a laparoscopic approach, in colectomy remain limited. This study aimed to analyze the value of robotic approach compared to laparoscopic approach in minimally invasive colectomy. Cohort study of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP). This study included data from the NSQIP from 1/2016 to 12/2021. Adult patients undergoing minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) colorectal surgery. Robotic versus laparoscopic colectomy. Risk ratios for the incidence of medical and surgical morbidity and overall mortality. Compared to laparoscopic, robotic colectomy was associated with a significant decrease in postoperative morbidity [RR 0.84 (95%CI 0.72-0.96), P < 0.001], a significant reduction in postoperative mortality [RR 0.83 (95%CI 0.79-0.90), P 0.010)], and in post operative ileus [RR: 0.80 (95%CI 0.75-0.84), P < 0.001]. Yet, robotic approach was associated with a significant increase in total operative time despite a significant decrease in total length of stay. No benefit was observed regarding anastomotic leak. Observational nature of the study cannot exclude residual bias. In this prospective cohort from the NSQIP, robotic colectomy was associated with a significant reduction in postoperative ileus, unplanned conversion to open surgery, morbidity, and overall mortality when compared to laparoscopic colectomy.

Effects of installation depth and recording start time on fish count and mean fork length of &lt;i&gt;Seriola quinqueradiata&lt;/i&gt; measured by optical stereo cameras

Effects of installation depth and recording start time on fish count and mean fork length of &lt;i&gt;Seriola quinqueradiata&lt;/i&gt; measured by optical stereo cameras