Unusual Type Research Articles

Risk factors associated with senile cataract causes blindness and management practices in humans: An overview

Cataract is a condition in which lens visualization decreases. In Pulverulent cataract nuclear opaqueness varies among individuals. Blue dot cataract is non-hereditary and extends in earlier stage. Ralliform is an unusual type, like corals, show finger like projections. In severe cataract, methionine, about 60% or more have been originated in membrane in form of methionine sulfoxide and ionine sulfone. Cortical and posterior subcapsular cataracts are strongly associated with the environment, for example, UV exposures, diabetes, and use of medicines. Nuclear cataract is linked with smoking. In normal and cataractous lens, oxidation of methionine and cysteine was described. Cataract is caused by different abnormalities during development, metabolic disorders, and variations by taking drugs and trauma. Age is the main factor contributing to cataract in developed countries. Education, blood pressure, sex, tobacco usage, alcohol consumption, nutrition, UV exposure, diarrhea, diabetes and some medications are some age-related factors. Cataract increases as the age progresses. Light and oxygen is vital to regulate functions of eye. The only cure is the removal of lens by surgery. Globally, intraocular lens (IOL) surgery is used. Cataracts threat can be reduced by avoiding smoking and limiting exposure to UV-B radiations. It is concluded that some risk factors in cataract includes education, blood pressure, sex, tobacco usage, alcohol consumption, nutrition, UV radiations exposure, diarrhea, diabetes and medications. There is no an effective treatment for cataract. Currently, lens surgery is the main treatment included (IOL).

Does the unusual phenomenon of sustained force circumvent the speed-endurance trade off in the jaw muscle of the southern alligator lizard (Elgaria multicarinata)?

The jaw muscles of the southern alligator lizard, Elgaria multicarinata, are used in prolonged mate-holding behavior, and also to catch fast prey. In both males and females, these muscles exhibit an unusual type of high endurance known as sustained force in which contractile force does not return to baseline between subsequent contractions. This phenomenon is assumed to facilitate the prolonged mate-holding observed in this species. Skeletal muscle is often subject to a speed-endurance trade off. Here we determine the isometric twitch, tetanic, and isotonic force-velocity properties of the jaw muscles at ∼24°C as metrics of contractile speed and compare these properties to a more typical thigh locomotory muscle, to determine whether endurance by sustained force allows for circumvention of the speed-endurance trade-off. The specialized jaw muscle is generally slower than the more typical thigh muscle; time to peak twitch force, twitch 90% relaxation time (p<0.01), and tetanic 90% and 50% relaxation times (p<0.001) are significantly longer, and force-velocity properties are significantly slower (p<0.001), in the jaw than the thigh muscle. However, there seem to be greater effects on relaxation rates and shortening velocity that on force rise times; there was no effect of muscle on time to peak, or 50% of tetanic force. Hence, the jaw muscle of the southern alligator lizard does not seem to circumvent the speed-endurance trade-off. However, the maintenance of force rise times despite slow relaxation, potentially enabled by the presence of hybrid fibers, may allow this muscle to meet the functional demand of prey capture.

Update on management of cerebral venous thrombosis.

This review intends to systematize the diagnostic and treatment approach to cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), highlighting key studies that have been recently published. In light of the recent pandemic, new risk factors for CVT have emerged. Contrast-enhanced MRI and susceptibility-weighted imaging have been shown to offer increased sensitivity for detecting cortical vein thrombosis.Dabigatran seems to be as effective and well tolerated as warfarin for long-term anticoagulation. Partial venous recanalization often occurs in patients treated with anticoagulation only, as early as 8 days after treatment onset. For patients with CVT and impending brain herniation, two-thirds of those who undergo decompressive craniectomy survive, with one-third being functionally independent 6 months after diagnosis. CVT is an unusual type of cerebrovascular disease that mostly affects women of fertile age. Risk factors should be identified and addressed. Diagnosis relies on confirmation of venous sinus and/or vein thrombosis, usually by CT venography or MRI. Anticoagulation is the cornerstone of treatment. Despite the lack of high-quality evidence, endovascular treatment is often considered in severe cases. Special populations require tailored approaches. About 80% achieve mRS 0-1, but residual symptoms often affect quality of life and the ability to return to work.

The fast rise of the unusual type IIL/IIb SN 2018ivc

We present an analysis of the photometric and spectroscopic dataset of the type II supernova (SN) 2018ivc in the nearby (10 Mpc) galaxy Messier 77. Thanks to our high-cadence data, we observed the SN rising very rapidly by nearly three magnitudes in five hours (or 18 mag d$^ $). The $r$-band light curve presents four distinct phases: the maximum light, which was reached in just one day, followed by a first, rapid linear decline and a short-duration plateau. Finally, the long, slower linear decline lasted for one year. Thanks to the ensuing radio re-brightening, we were able to detect SN 2018ivc four years after the explosion. The early spectra show a blue, nearly featureless continuum, but the spectra go on to evolve rapidly; after about ten days, a prominent Halpha line starts to emerge, characterised by a peculiar profile. However, the spectra are heavily contaminated by emission lines from the host galaxy. The He I lines, namely $ are also strong. In addition, strong absorption from the Na I doublet is evident and indicative of a non-negligible internal reddening. From its equivalent width, we derived a lower limit on the host reddening of $A_V mag. From the Balmer decrement and a match of the $B-V$ colour curve of SN 2018ivc to that of the comparison objects, we obtained a host reddening of $A_V mag. The spectra are similar to those of SNe II, but with strong He lines. Given the peculiar light curve and spectral features, we suggest SN 2018ivc could be a transitional object between the type IIL and type IIb SNe classes. In addition, we found signs of an interaction with the circum-stellar medium (CSM) in the light curve, also making SN 2018ivc an interacting event. Finally, we modelled the early multi-band light curves and photospheric velocity of SN 2018ivc to estimate the physical parameters of the explosion and CSM.

Unique seismic and eruption precursors to the 1996 and ongoing magmatic eruptions of Popocatépetl: Coupled and fluidized bed events

We describe three unique types of seismicity at Popocatépetl volcano that accompanied the initial vent-clearing eruptive activity in December 1994 through the eruption of the first two domes in 1996. We identify and describe two types of coupled events, 1) spasmodic burst coupled events, a burst of volcano tectonic (VT) events coupled with a large eruptive explosion (21 December 1994 and 5 March 1996), and 2) explosion-couplet coupled events, a pair of events with a deeper first event and whose second event correlates with a small gas emission or explosion. Explosion-couplets occurred with the onset of magmatic ash dominated eruptions and their properties are very useful for forecasting magmatic eruptions at Popocatépetl volcano. Measurable quantities including the time between the first and second phase, daily numbers of events, and the amplitude ratio between the second and first phase systematically changed as the first two domes approached the surface between March and June 1996. Interevent times decreased from many tens of seconds to a few seconds, while amplitude ratios increased from about 2 to 10 or more. Event numbers increased prior to and during initial dome extrusion. These changes were used to forecast the eruption of the first two domes. We also report on another unusual type of low frequency seismicity that accompanied emissions called fluidized bed events. Fluidized bed events occurred following the initial eruption on 21 December 1994, beginning mid-January 1995, when SO2 emissions were initially elevated, and the conduit was open. Fluidized bed events began to wane in late March through the end of May 1995 as did SO2 emissions. Consistent gas, visual and seismic observations by Centro Nacional de Prevención de Desastres (CENAPRED) enabled the direct correlation of the gas, magma, and seismic phenomena.

Mulberry lesion: Fibro-epithelial hyperplasia with an unusual clinical presentation

Fibro-epithelial hyperplasia comes under the category of reactive lesions which are basically progressive fibrous overgrowths which arise from the gingival connective tissue and periodontal ligament fibres and are presented in the oral cavity due to long standing local irritation which are not neoplastic and/or may cause esthetic and functional problems. Following case is presented describing an unusual type of clinical presentation of a long standing fibro-epithelial hyperplasia in a 55 year old female with a history of 3 years which was excised using a scalpel and was sent for a histopathogical analysis.

Cytologic and Clinicopathologic Features of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma with Prominent Hobnail Features on FNAC.

The hobnail variation of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is an uncommon, aggressive variety with hobnail characteristics on more than 30% of the tumour cells. Because of the entity's rarity, the clinical behaviour and pathologic characteristics of these tumours are still unknown. The purpose of this case study was to look at the cytologic, clinical, and pathological aspects of the hobnail variant of PTC, because of its severe clinicopathologic features and poor outcome, the unusual hobnail type of PTC may necessitate more aggressive treatment than traditional PTCs. The cytologic features of the hobnail variety are distinctive, and FNAC specimens can be used to provide a preoperative diagnosis. Diagnostic parameters for proportion of hobnail morphology need to be refined further. More research is needed to understand how detection of this high-risk variation affects clinical treatment.

An unusual type of diabetes “not 1” and “not 2”

Type 3c diabetes mellitus (T3cDM) is a secondary form of diabetes caused by pancreatic disease, such as chronic pancreatitis, that impairs insulin and glucagon secretion and results in poor glycemic control. Often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes, this pancreatic diabetes requires specific management due to elevated hemoglobin A1c levels, early insulin requirements, and increased risk of hypoglycemia. This case report discusses a 24-year-old man with hereditary chronic pancreatitis associated with the PRSS1 mutation, without typical symp­toms of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, who presented with early insulin therapy and increased glycemic variability. The complexity of diagnosing this type of diabetes highlights the importance of diabetes screening in patients with chronic pancreatitis and the risk of inappropriate diagnosis and medical treatment.

Small bowel adenocarcinoma of the jejunum

Jejunal adenocarcinoma is an unusual type of gastrointestinal malignancy. The symptoms are vague, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and, in some cases, weight loss. Due to this vague presentation as well as lack of definitive imaging techniques, diagnosis tends to be delayed and patients typically present at later stages. We present a case of a patient who presented with acute onset abdominal pain. Imaging revealed the presence of a suspicious lesion of the jejunum, with a 3,6 extension. The patient underwent a laparoscopy segmental intestinal resection and omental lymph node resection. The lesion was a 3-cm mass at proximal jejunum. The jejunum adenocarcinoma is a rare neoplasm of the small bowel. The curative resection at the early stages is still the best treatment.

An unusual Ogden type V tibial tubercle avulsion fracture: a case report and literature review

BackgroundOgden type V tibial tubercle avulsion fracture is an unusual type of physial injury. Thus, little is known about its mechanism of injury and treatment. The type of osteosynthesis is variable and depends on the experience of the surgeon. We commonly used cancellous screws fixation combined with tension band wiring for displaced fracture of the anterior tibial tuberosity.Case presentationThe present manuscript describes a case of a Han nationality 13-year-old boy who presented with severe pain of the left knee, which began after landing following a high jump. He had no significant past medical history apart from a high body mass index of 30.3. Radiographs revealed that he had an unusual Ogden type V tibial tubercle avulsion fracture. He was treated by open reduction and combined fixation with cannulated screws and tension-band wiring. After 3 months, the fracture healed without any complications or knee symptoms with full range of motion. He underwent reoperation for symptomatic hardware, which was removed at 5 months after initial surgery, and returned to his prior level of sporting activity at 1 year follow-up.ConclusionOur case suggests that excellent functional outcome could be achievable by open reduction with the combination of internal fixation and tension-band wiring for Ogden type V tibial tubercle avulsion fracture. This type of osteosynthesis could not only achieve anatomical reduction and stable fixation for such fractures, but also avoid further damage to the proximal tibial epiphysis, which prevents serious complications, such difference in leg length.

Unusual spinel in the “Verde Prato” serpentinized peridotite

A petrographic study of “Verde Prato” (trade name of an ophiolitic serpentinised peridotite quarried in Tuscany) revealed, next to a relict Cr-spinel, another opaque ore mineral apparently containing ca.17 wt% SiO2. In order to unveil the origin of this anomalous composition, detailed SEM-EDS, μ-Raman spectroscopy and X-ray μ-diffraction investigations were undertaken, which provided useful but somehow contrasting indications. Therefore, in order to definitely unveil the nature of the unusual opaque mineral, a specific TEM study was undertaken. This showed the presence of submicroscopic euhedral Mn-Cr-Fe-spinels in a matrix of a 7 Å layer-silicate (Al-lizardite). Interesting, all the submicroscopic spinel grains were found to share the same crystallographic orientation, suggesting an origin from a single, larger, former crystal. This unusual type of alteration of the mantle spinel probably occurred on the ocean floor during the pervasive polyphase process of hydrothermal peridotite serpentinization. Overall, by mapping the different serpentinite microstructures and compositions, a polyphase serpentinization history consisting of at least eight different cycles has been suggested. Moreover, the spinel composition indicates that the alteration was accompanied by Mn-metasomatism, made possible by the close proximity of Mn-rich hydrothermal vents, such as “black smokers”.

Thallium-Fluorides Revisited: Crystal Chemistry of TlHF2, Tl2[MF6]·2TlF, and Tl2[MF6]·TlCl (M = Si and Ge).

Although the formation of thallium hydrogen fluorides TlHxFx+1 (x = 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 5, 6.5, and 7) from TlF and HF was reported in the 1970s, little is known about the corresponding crystal structures. To shed light on the crystal chemistry of the thallium fluorides, we reinvestigated the structure of α-TlHF2, which was obtained by crystallization of TlF from 50% HF at room temperature. We disclose that β-TlHF2 is isostructural with α-MHF2 (M = K, Rb, and Cs), γ-TlHF2 is isostructural with β-MHF2 (M = K and Rb), whereas α-TlHF2 crystallizes in an unusual structure type. During the reaction of TlHF2 with the glass of the microscope slide, crystals of the previously unknown compound Tl2[SiF6]·2TlF were formed. We disclose that the related Tl2[GeF6]·2TlF can be obtained by the crystallization of stoichiometric amounts of Tl2[GeF6] with TlF from water at room temperature. The crystal structures of α-TlHF2, Tl2[SiF6]·2TlF, Tl2[SiF6]·TlCl, Tl2[GeF6]·2TlF, Tl2[GeF6]·TlCl, and Tl2[GeF6] were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The crystal structures of α-TlF and Tl2[SiF6]·xTlF (x = 0, 1) were redetermined at low temperatures.

Cardamom (Amomum tsaoko) agroforest is important habitat for skywalker hoolock gibbon (Hoolock tianxing) in Mt. Gaoligong, Yunnan, China

Understory plantation of cardamom (genus Amomum) is an ancient and widespread agroforestry practice in the eastern Himalayas and Southeast Asia, an area that supports high regional biodiversity. Cardamom provides an important cash income to rural people, and governments encourage cardamom cultivation as a replacement for slash-and-burn agriculture to alleviate poverty, aligning with the principles of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) program initiated by the FAO. This program recognizes and supports traditional agricultural practices that contributes to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. In this context, cardamom agroforestry not only supports local economies but also provides crucial habitat for animals, including the newly described skywalker hoolock gibbon (Hoolock tianxing). Nearly half of the remnant population of the skywalker hoolock gibbon lives in cardamom agroforest. In order to evaluate if gibbons could survive in cardamom agroforest for a relatively long term, we compared foraging behavior of gibbons over a year living in cardamom agroforests (group NA) and well-preserved forests (group BB) in Mt. Gaoligong, Yunnan, China. In response to habitat degradation caused by cardamom plantation, group NA increased feeding time and spent more time feeding on leaves. Notably, they consumed nuts of Castanopsis hystrix which is an unusual food type for gibbons. On the contrary, members of group BB rarely ate nuts though Castanopsis hystrix is abundant within its home range. However, group NA did not occupy a large home range, or travel longer in time or distance than group BB. We also monitored female reproduction of five groups for 5–13 years. Two adult females living in agroforests successfully reared two or three offspring with an inter-birth interval of five years. In addition, we surveyed group size of 16 groups (9 in agroforest vs. 7 in well preserved forests) from 2017 to 2023, and we found no significant difference in group size between habitats. Our results suggested that cardamom agroforest can sustain skywalker hoolock gibbons provided it is not too fragmented and hunting is prohibited.

Lentil aspiration pneumonitis

This patient has a complex medical history that includes intellectual disability, blindness, deafness, seizure disorder, tracheomalacia, and recurrent aspiration. He had a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in place for tube feeding. He again presented with acute respiratory distress, hypoxemia, fever, and leukocytosis. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed bilateral infiltrates and nodular densities. A previous chest CT done 6 years prior to admission revealed multiple micronodules scattered throughout both lung fields. The patient had had a previous lung biopsy 20 years prior to admission which revealed lentil starch material in bronchioles and multifocal foreign body giant cell reactions. The patient was treated with an empiric antibiotic regimen and improved. This case demonstrates the radiographic and histologic changes associated with lentil pneumonia which is an unusual type of aspiration pneumonia. Keywords: Lentil pneumonia, granulomas, aspiration, nodules

Solar Azo-Switches for Effective E→Z Photoisomerization by Sunlight.

Natural photoactive systems have evolved to harness broad-spectrum light from solar radiation for critical functions such as light perception and photosynthetic energy conversion. Molecular photoswitches, which undergo structural changes upon light absorption, are artificial photoactive tools widely used for developing photoresponsive systems and converting light energy. However, photoswitches generally need to be activated by light of specific narrow wavelength ranges for effective photoconversion, which limits their ability to directly work under sunlight and to efficiently harvest solar energy. Here, focusing on azo-switches-the most extensively studied photoswitches, we demonstrate effective solar E→Z photoisomerization with photoconversions exceeding 80 % under unfiltered sunlight. These sunlight-driven azo-switches are developed by rendering the absorption of E isomers overwhelmingly stronger than that of Z isomers across a broad ultraviolet to visible spectrum. This unusual type of spectral profile is realized by a simple yet highly adjustable molecular design strategy, enabling the fine-tuning of spectral window that extends light absorption beyond 600 nm. Notably, back-photoconversion can be achieved without impairing the forward solar isomerization, resulting in unique light-reversible solar switches. Such exceptional solar chemistry of photoswitches provides unprecedented opportunities for developing sustainable light-driven systems and efficient solar energy technologies.

Solar Azo‐Switches for Effective E→Z Photoisomerization by Sunlight

AbstractNatural photoactive systems have evolved to harness broad‐spectrum light from solar radiation for critical functions such as light perception and photosynthetic energy conversion. Molecular photoswitches, which undergo structural changes upon light absorption, are artificial photoactive tools widely used for developing photoresponsive systems and converting light energy. However, photoswitches generally need to be activated by light of specific narrow wavelength ranges for effective photoconversion, which limits their ability to directly work under sunlight and to efficiently harvest solar energy. Here, focusing on azo‐switches—the most extensively studied photoswitches, we demonstrate effective solar E→Z photoisomerization with photoconversions exceeding 80 % under unfiltered sunlight. These sunlight‐driven azo‐switches are developed by rendering the absorption of E isomers overwhelmingly stronger than that of Z isomers across a broad ultraviolet to visible spectrum. This unusual type of spectral profile is realized by a simple yet highly adjustable molecular design strategy, enabling the fine‐tuning of spectral window that extends light absorption beyond 600 nm. Notably, back‐photoconversion can be achieved without impairing the forward solar isomerization, resulting in unique light‐reversible solar switches. Such exceptional solar chemistry of photoswitches provides unprecedented opportunities for developing sustainable light‐driven systems and efficient solar energy technologies.

A Critical Examination of the Clinical Diagnosis of Functional Tic-like Behaviors.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, movement disorder clinics have seen an increase in patients with an unusual type of tic-like symptoms: young adults with abrupt onset complex behaviors. It was quickly suspected that these patients suffered from functional neurological symptoms, later named Functional Tic-Like Behaviors (FTLB). Subsequent research on the differential diagnosis between FTLB and tics has been substantial and led to the development of diagnostic checklists. We conducted a theoretical reappraisal of the FTLB literature to clarify the validity of the concept and its diagnostic implications. This paper addresses several key aspects of the current FTLB literature: circular reasoning, the complications of the FTLB phenomenology and demographics, the impact of FTLB on tic literature at large, and issues with alignment of the FTLB concept with the diagnostic criteria for functional disorders. The clinical approach to FTLB might involve circular reasoning due to a lack of clinical benchmarks. The FTLB phenomenology and demographics may need more work to ensure a lack of bias and a proper description of this patient group including a clear distinction from tics. The impact of the FTLB discussion on the wider literature needs consideration. The validation of positive signs may help with both these endeavors and pave way to the inclusion of FTLB within psychiatric classification systems. Furthermore, the coexistence of FTLB and tics within the same patient needs to be addressed. More research may be needed to fully establish the diagnosis of FTLB and differentiate it from tics.

Enrichment of Phosphates, Lead, and Mixed Soil‐Organic Particles in INPs at the Southern Great Plains Site

AbstractIce nucleating particles (INPs) are rare particles that initiate primary ice formation, a critical step required for subsequent important cloud microphysical processes that ultimately govern cloud phase and cloud radiative properties. Laboratory studies have found that organic‐rich dusts, such as those found in soils, are more efficient INPs compared to mineral dust. However, the atmospheric relevance of these organic‐rich dusts are not well understood, particularly in regions with significant agricultural activity. The Agricultural Ice nuclei at the Southern Great Plains field campaign (AGINSGP) was conducted in rural Oklahoma to investigate how soil dusts contribute to INP populations in the Great Plains. We present chemical characterization of ambient and ice crystal residual particles from a single day of sampling, using single particle mass spectrometry (SPMS) and scanning microscopy. Ambient particles were primarily carbonaceous or secondary aerosol, while the fraction of dust particles was higher in the residual particles. We also observed an unusual particle type consisting of a carbonaceous core mixed with dust fragments on the surface, which was found in higher proportion in residuals. Dust particles measured during residual sampling contained greater proportions of phosphate (63 and 79) and lead (206Pb+). Strong sulfate signals were not seen in the residual dust particles measured by the SPMS, while nitrate was slightly depleted relative to ambient dust. This study shows that organic‐rich soils may be important contributors to the ambient INP population in agricultural regions.

A programmable seekRNA guides target selection by IS1111 and IS110 type insertion sequences

IS1111 and IS110 insertion sequence (IS) family members encode an unusual DEDD transposase type and exhibit specific target site selection. The IS1111 group include identifiable subterminal inverted repeats (sTIR) not found in the IS110 type1. IS in both families include a noncoding region (NCR) of significant length and, as each individual IS or group of closely related IS selects a different site, we had previously proposed that an NCR-derived RNA was involved in target selection2. Here, we find that the NCR is usually downstream of the transposase gene in IS1111 family IS and upstream in the IS110 type. Four IS1111 and one IS110 family members that target different sequences are used to demonstrate that the NCR determines a short seeker RNA (seekRNA) that co-purified with the transposase. The seekRNA is essential for transposition of the IS or a cargo flanked by IS ends from and to the preferred target. Short sequences matching both top and bottom strands of the target are present in the seekRNA but their order in IS1111 and IS110 family IS is reversed. Reprogramming the seekRNA and donor flank to target a different site is demonstrated, indicating future biotechnological potential for these systems.

A previously unknown variant of the calcaneofibular ligament.

The lateral ankle joint is composed of three ligaments: the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL). The ATFL and CFL demonstrate morphological variation, especially regarding their shape and number of bands. During standard anatomical dissection, an unusual type of triple CFL was observed: the CFL was composed of two bands originating on the lateral malleolus, and the presence of a lateral talocalcaneal ligament (LTC) originating on the talus bone. The insertion point of each band was located on the calcaneal bone. An understanding of these anatomical patterns provides a clearer view of ankle joint biomechanics, and improved the planning and performance of surgical treatment.