In a crowd density estimation dataset,the annotation of crowd locations is an extremely laborious task,and they are not taken into the evaluation metrics.In this paper,we aim to reduce the annotation cost of crowd dat...In a crowd density estimation dataset,the annotation of crowd locations is an extremely laborious task,and they are not taken into the evaluation metrics.In this paper,we aim to reduce the annotation cost of crowd datasets,and propose a crowd density estimation method based on weakly-supervised learning,in the absence of crowd position supervision information,which directly reduces the number of crowds by using the number of pedestrians in the image as the supervised information.For this purpose,we design a new training method,which exploits the correlation between global and local image features by incremental learning to train the network.Specifically,we design a parent-child network(PC-Net)focusing on the global and local image respectively,and propose a linear feature calibration structure to train the PC-Net simultaneously,and the child network learns feature transfer factors and feature bias weights,and uses the transfer factors and bias weights to linearly feature calibrate the features extracted from the Parent network,to improve the convergence of the network by using local features hidden in the crowd images.In addition,we use the pyramid vision transformer as the backbone of the PC-Net to extract crowd features at different levels,and design a global-local feature loss function(L2).We combine it with a crowd counting loss(LC)to enhance the sensitivity of the network to crowd features during the training process,which effectively improves the accuracy of crowd density estimation.The experimental results show that the PC-Net significantly reduces the gap between fullysupervised and weakly-supervised crowd density estimation,and outperforms the comparison methods on five datasets of Shanghai Tech Part A,ShanghaiTech Part B,UCF_CC_50,UCF_QNRF and JHU-CROWD++.展开更多
In healthy intervertebral discs(IVDs),nerves and blood vessels are present only in the outer annulus fibrosus,while in degenerative IVDs,a large amount of nerve and blood vessel tissue grows inward.Evidence supports t...In healthy intervertebral discs(IVDs),nerves and blood vessels are present only in the outer annulus fibrosus,while in degenerative IVDs,a large amount of nerve and blood vessel tissue grows inward.Evidence supports that neurogenic inflammation produced by neuropeptides such as substance P and calcitonin gene related peptide released by the nociceptive nerve fibers innervating the IVDs plays a crucial role in the process of IVD degeneration.Recently,non-neuronal cells,including IVD cells and infiltrating immune cells,have emerged as important players in neurogenic inflammation.IVD cells and infiltrating immune cells express functional receptors for neuropeptides through which they receive signals from the nervous system.In return,IVD cells and immune cells produce neuropeptides and nerve growth factor,which stimulate nerve fibers.This communication generates a positive bidirectional feedback loop that can enhance the inflammatory response of the IVD.Recently emerging transient receptor potential channels have been recognized as contributors to neurogenic inflammation in the degenerative IVDs.These findings suggest that neurogenic inflammation involves complex pathophysiological interactions between sensory nerves and multiple cell types in the degenerative IVDs.Clarifying the mechanism of neurogenic inflammation in IVD degeneration may provide in-depth understanding of the pathology of discogenic low back pain.展开更多
BACKGROUND The pedicle screw-laminar hook system has strong fixation and is conducive to bone graft fusion for lumbar spondylolysis.However,the current pedicle screwlaminar hook fixation system is not specifically des...BACKGROUND The pedicle screw-laminar hook system has strong fixation and is conducive to bone graft fusion for lumbar spondylolysis.However,the current pedicle screwlaminar hook fixation system is not specifically designed for lumbar spondylolysis.AIM To investigate the clinical effects of a new anatomical hook-rod-pedicle screw system in the treatment of lumbar spondylolysis in young adults.METHODS We designed a new anatomic hook-rod-pedicle screw system for young patients with lumbar spondylolysis.The isthmus and the corresponding pedicle screw entry point were exposed through the intermuscular approach.Autogenous iliac bone graft was obtained to bridge the isthmus defect,and then the anatomic hook-rod-pedicle screw system was used to fix the isthmus in 15 young patients.RESULTS At 24 mo follow-up,the visual analogue scale score of low back pain decreased from 6.73±0.88 to 0.73±0.59,and the Oswestry disability index score decreased from 58.20±8.99 to 7.87±4.97.Computed tomography showed bilateral isthmic bone healing in 14 cases and unilateral isthmic bone healing in 1 case.Magnetic resonance imaging showed that the lumbar disc signal of diseased segment and adjacent segments had no change compared with that before surgery.The pain visual analogue scale score of the donor site was 0.20±0.41 at the last follow-up.According to the Modified Macnab score,the excellent and good rate was 100%.CONCLUSION The application of this new anatomical hook-rod-pedicle screw system to treat young patients with lumbar spondylolysis has the advantages of less trauma,a simple operation and satisfactory clinical effects.展开更多
BACKGROUND In recent years,the mechanical concept of intervertebral disc regeneration has become more and more popular due to the increasing awareness of the importance of preservation of spine movement.Interestingly,...BACKGROUND In recent years,the mechanical concept of intervertebral disc regeneration has become more and more popular due to the increasing awareness of the importance of preservation of spine movement.Interestingly,there is increasing evidence,however,that dynamic stabilization systems may compensate nonphysiological loads,limit pathological movement,normalize disc height and intradiscal pressure,and provide an adaptive environment for disc regeneration.CASE SUMMARY The patient was a 54-year-old man,who presented with a 10-year history of mechanical back pain,which had become progressively serious and radiated into the left lower limb with numbness 3 mo prior.He had decreased muscle strength(class IV)of the left dorsal extensor and plantar flexor.Magnetic resonance imaging scans showed L3-S1 disc degeneration and L4-L5 disc herniation.Because the patient did not respond to various conservative treatments,he underwent a posterior L4-5 discectomy with fixation of the BioFlex dynamic stabilization system(Bio-Spine,Seoul,Korea).Preoperative symptoms were relieved and lumbar function was markedly improved after the operation.L4-L5 disc rehydration of instrumented segment was noted on magnetic resonance imaging at the 2-year follow-up.CONCLUSION Rehydration of the degenerated disc in our patient indicates that the BioFlex dynamic stabilization system may promote disc regeneration.Further research is needed to provide more evidence to support lumbar disc rehydration in the bridged segment using this system.展开更多
A new Hairless(Hr)gene mutant mouse line(SHJH^(hr))was identified,which showed hairless skin in adult individuals as reported in rhino mice.Through Hr gene mutant identification with polymerase chain reaction(PCR)ampl...A new Hairless(Hr)gene mutant mouse line(SHJH^(hr))was identified,which showed hairless skin in adult individuals as reported in rhino mice.Through Hr gene mutant identification with polymerase chain reaction(PCR)amplification and sequencing,seven mutants were identified,including nonsense mutant site 2134C→T(R467X),which produced a truncated Hr protein.Metabolic activity and heart rate were measured using a metabolic cage and blood pressure instrument,respectively.The SHJH^(hr) mice showed a strong metabolic rate,high heart rate,and low blood pressure.Histological analysis of the thyroid gland of SHJH^(hr) mice showed abnormal follicular structure and hypertrophic thyrocytes.Compared to ICR mice,thyroid function in 4-month-old SHJH^(hr) mice showed lower thyroid stimulating hormone(TSH)levels,and in 9-month-old SHJH^(hr) mice showed significantly higher TSH and thyroid hormone levels.These data indicate that SHJH^(hr) mice may be in a hyperthyroid state with increasing age.Thus,based on the above results,we successfully established a novel mouse model with thyroid dysfunction.展开更多
BACKGROUND Conventional plain X-ray images of rats,the most common animals used as degeneration models,exhibit unclear vertebral structure and blurry intervertebral disc spaces due to their small size,slender vertebra...BACKGROUND Conventional plain X-ray images of rats,the most common animals used as degeneration models,exhibit unclear vertebral structure and blurry intervertebral disc spaces due to their small size,slender vertebral bodies.AIM To apply molybdenum target X-ray photography in the evaluation of caudal intervertebral disc(IVD)degeneration in rat models.METHODS Two types of rat caudal IVD degeneration models(needle-punctured model and endplate-destructed model)were established,and their effectiveness was verified using nuclear magnetic resonance imaging.Molybdenum target inspection and routine plain X-ray were then performed on these models.Additionally,four observers were assigned to measure the intervertebral height of degenerated segments on molybdenum target plain X-ray images and routine plain X-ray images,respectively.The degeneration was evaluated and statistical analysis was subsequently conducted.RESULTS Nine rats in the needle-punctured model and 10 rats in the endplate-destructed model were effective.Compared with routine plain X-ray images,molybdenum target plain X-ray images showed higher clarity,stronger contrast,as well as clearer and more accurate structural development.The McNemar test confirmed that the difference was statistically significant(P=0.031).In the two models,the reliability of the intervertebral height measured by the four observers on routine plain X-ray images was poor(ICC<0.4),while the data obtained from the molybdenum target plain X-ray images were more reliable.CONCLUSIONMolybdenum target inspection can obtain clearer images and display fine calcification in the imaging evaluation of caudal IVD degeneration in rats,thus ensuring a more accurate evaluation of degeneration.展开更多
BACKGROUND Percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP)is an effective method for the treatment of neurologically intact Kümmell’s disease,but bone cement leakage during surgery is a problem that deserves attention.AIM To r...BACKGROUND Percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP)is an effective method for the treatment of neurologically intact Kümmell’s disease,but bone cement leakage during surgery is a problem that deserves attention.AIM To reduce bone cement leakage and evaluate the effect of the sequential infusion of bone cement during PVP for the treatment of stage I or II Kümmell’s disease.METHODS Patients with Kümmell’s disease treated in our hospital from September 2015 to September 2018 were retrospectively analyzed.Patients meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were divided into two groups:Traditional single infusion and sequential infusion(SI).The visual analog scale(VAS)and Oswestry disability index(ODI)were evaluated and compared,and duration of operation,bone cement content and complications were recorded.RESULTS Forty-five patients were included in this study;there were 24 in the traditional single infusion group and 21 in the SI group.The VAS and ODI were significantly different for both groups when compared pre-and postoperatively,whereas the differences between 1 wk postoperatively and at the final follow-up were not statistically.When the VAS and ODI of the two groups were compared,there were no significant differences at any time point.The leakage rate of bone cement was significantly lower in the SI group(14.3%,3 of 21)than that in the traditional single infusion group(41.7%,10 of 24).CONCLUSION SI in unipedicular PVP is a safe and effective procedure for neurologically intact Kümmell’s disease,and this technique could decrease the incidence of bone cement leakage.展开更多
The aims of this study were to explore whether laparoscopic surgical resections of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors （GISTs） would produce better perioperative and similar oncologic outcomes compared with open...The aims of this study were to explore whether laparoscopic surgical resections of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors （GISTs） would produce better perioperative and similar oncologic outcomes compared with open surgical resection in Chinese patients. Thirty-six gastric GISTs cases were divided into a minimally invasive laparoscopic group and open resection group, depending on the surgical approach that was used. The general preoperative information, operative time, incision length, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative time to first flatulence, postoperative complications, postoperative hospital stay, total hospitalization costs, and such follow-up data as recurrence, metastasis, and mortality rates were compared between two groups. Among the 36 gastric GISTs, 15 received laparoscopic surgical treatment （laparoscopy group, n=15）, and 21 received routine open resection treatment （open resection group, n=21）. The laparoscopy group and the open resection group showed statistically significant differences （P〈0.05） in incision length （7.8±2.3 vs. 16.9±3.8 cm）, postoperative time to first flatulence （3.8±1.3 vs. 5.1±2.1 d）, postoperative hospitalization time （7.6±2.5 vs. 11.3±3.7 d）, and total cost of hospitalization （RMB 28,239±5,521 vs. RMB 23,761±5,362）. There were no statistically significant differences （P〉0.05） between the laparoscopy group and the open resection group in operative time （147.8±59.3 vs. 139.2±62.1 min） and intraoperative blood loss （149.8±98.9 VS. 154.2±99.3 mL）. Both groups had no postoperative complications, no recurrence and metastasis, and no postoperative mortality. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in postoperative complications, postoperative recurrence and metastasis, and postoperative mortality. In conclusion, compared with open resection, the laparoscopic resection of gastric GISTs offers the advantages of less trauma, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stay.展开更多
BACKGROUND Many classification systems of thoracolumbar spinal fractures have been proposed to enhance treatment protocols,but none have achieved universal adoption.AIM To develop a new patient scoring system for case...BACKGROUND Many classification systems of thoracolumbar spinal fractures have been proposed to enhance treatment protocols,but none have achieved universal adoption.AIM To develop a new patient scoring system for cases with thoracolumbar injury classification and severity score(TLICS)=4,namely the load-sharing thoracolumbar injury score(LSTLIS).METHODS Based on thoracolumbar injury classification and severity score,this study proposes the use of the established load-sharing classification(LSC)to develop an improved classification system(LSTLIS).To prove the reliability and reproducibility of LSTLIS,a retrospective analysis for patients with thoracolumbar vertebral fractures has been conducted.RESULTS A total of 102 cases were enrolled in the study.The scoring trend of LSTLIS is roughly similar as the LSC scoring,however,the average deviation based on the former method is relatively smaller than that of the latter.Thus,the robustness of the LSTLIS scoring method is better than that of LSC.LSTLIS can further classify patients with TLICS=4,so as to assess more accurately this particular circumstance,and the majority of LSTLIS recommendations are consistent with actual clinical decisions.LSTLIS is a scoring system that combines LSC and TLICS to compensate for the lack of appropriate inclusion of anterior and middle column compression fractures with TLICS.Following preliminary clinical verification,LSTLIS has greater feasibility and reliability value,is more practical in comprehensively assessing certain clinical circumstances,and has better accuracy with clinically significant guidelines.展开更多
Introduction: Laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy (LAG) for early gastric cancer (EGC) was considered as a treatment with many advantages due to the application of laparoscopic equipment. The aim of this study was to com...Introduction: Laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy (LAG) for early gastric cancer (EGC) was considered as a treatment with many advantages due to the application of laparoscopic equipment. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of use of laparoscopic equipment in blood loss, the number of harvested lymph nodes (HLNs), and complications between LAG and open gastrectomy (OG) for EGC. Methods: Patients received surgical treatment for early distal gastric cancer (EDGC) were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were classified into three groups by different operation methods: traditional open distal gastrectomy (ODG) group, laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) group, and open distal gastrectomy with assistance of laparoscopic equipment (ODGA) group. Results: Altogether 65 patients with EDGC received surgical treatment, including 20 cases of ODG, 22 of LADG, and 23 of ODGA. No lymph node metastasis was found in all patients. 25 (38.5%) postoperative confirmed T2 were misdiagnosed as T1 preoperatively. Compared with ODG group, the blood loss was significantly reduced in LADG and ODGA groups (106.4 ± 46.0;and 73.3 ± 35.7 ml vs. 250.5 ± 65.1 ml respectively;P 0.01), but the operation time was significantly longer in these groups (231.0 ± 34.5, and 222.5 ± 42.6 min vs. 128.5 ± 22.3 min respectively;P 0.01). No difference was found in the blood loss, operation time, the number of harvested lymph nodes and the types of gastrointestinal continuity reconstruction between LADG and ODGA groups. No difference was found in the postoperative complications among the three groups. Conclusions: Laparoscopic equipment might be the key factor in the reduction of blood loss and the delay of operation time for LADG. Application of laparoscopic equipment in open gastrectomy can be used as a training method to shorten learning curve for LAG beginners.展开更多
BACKGROUND Postoperative unobstructed drainage is an important measure for avoiding hematoma formation and preventing complications from anterior cervical surgery.AIM To discuss the characteristics and key points of c...BACKGROUND Postoperative unobstructed drainage is an important measure for avoiding hematoma formation and preventing complications from anterior cervical surgery.AIM To discuss the characteristics and key points of clinical management of two types of commonly used negative pressure drainage systems in clinical settings.METHODS Two types of commonly used silica gel negative pressure drainage balls and a type of gastrointestinal decompression apparatus were fully emptied and then injected with different amounts of water and air.Following this,the negative pressure values of the three devices were measured.Meanwhile,we undertook a retrospective analysis of the clinical data of 1328 patients who had been treated with different negative pressure drainage apparatuses during their anterior cervical surgery in our department between January 2007 and January 2018.RESULTS As the amount of injected air or water increased,the negative pressure of the silica gel negative pressure drainage ball decreased rapidly,dropping to zero when 150 mL of water or air was injected.In contrast,the negative pressure of gastrointestinal decompression apparatus decreased slowly,maintaining an ideal value even when 300 mL of water or air was injected.And statistical analysis demonstrated that patients who had been treated with the gastrointestinal decompression apparatus were less likely to develop severe complications than those who had been treated with the silica gel negative pressure drainage ball(P<0.05).CONCLUSION This study showed that the gastrointestinal decompression apparatus has the advantages of large suction capacity,long duration of continuous negative pressure,and good drainage effect,all of which are the favorable factors for the use of this apparatus for negative pressure drainage in anterior cervical surgery.展开更多
Using the diluted S1813 UV photoresist as a sacrificial layer, we successfully fabricate a superconducting suspended parallel-plate capacitor, in which the top layer of aluminum film acts as a membrane mechanical reso...Using the diluted S1813 UV photoresist as a sacrificial layer, we successfully fabricate a superconducting suspended parallel-plate capacitor, in which the top layer of aluminum film acts as a membrane mechanical resonator. Together with a superconducting octagonal spiral inductor, this parallel-plate capacitor constitutes a superconducting microwave resonator. At m K temperature, the transmission characteristic and spectrum of the microwave resonator are measured.Sideband frequencies caused by the vibration of the membrane mechanical resonator are clearly demonstrated. By downconverting with a mixer, the dependence of fundamental frequency and its harmonics on the input microwave power are clearly demonstrated, which is consistent with the numerical simulation.展开更多
Dear Editor, Drought is the most devastating factor limiting the pro- ductivity and geographical distribution of rice （Oryza sativa）. Several drought-tolerant varieties have been developed from drought-tolerant ger...Dear Editor, Drought is the most devastating factor limiting the pro- ductivity and geographical distribution of rice （Oryza sativa）. Several drought-tolerant varieties have been developed from drought-tolerant germplasm. These varieties make it imper- ative to clarity the mechanism of drought responses at the genomic level, which will provide a foundation for future breeding and genetic engineering efforts （Zhou et al., 2007）. Yangdao6 （YD6） was used to breed many elite varieties in China, which was developed from Yangdao2 （YD2） through a series of crosses （Supplemental Figure 1）. Here, we veri- fied that YD6 seedlings showed better drought tolerance than YD2, Yangdao4 （YD4）, and 3021 seedlings （Figure 1A）. After drought treatment for 8 d, over 81.9% of YD2 plants were rolled, which is about three times that of YD6 plants. Recovering normal growth with water, the survival rates of YD6 and YD2 seedlings were 92.2% and 65.6%, respectively.展开更多
We report the recovery of a 7068-nt viral sequence from the ＂viral fossils＂ embedded in the genome of Alhagi sparsifolia, a typical desert plant. Although the full viral genome remains to be completed, the putative ...We report the recovery of a 7068-nt viral sequence from the ＂viral fossils＂ embedded in the genome of Alhagi sparsifolia, a typical desert plant. Although the full viral genome remains to be completed, the putative genome structure, the deduced amino acids and phylogenetic analysis unambiguously demonstrate that this viral sequence represents a novel species of the genus Badnavirus. The putative virus is tentatively termed Alhagi bacilliform virus （ABV）. Southern blotting and inverse polymerase chain reaction （PCR） data indicate that the ABV-related sequence is integrated into the A. sparsifolia genome, and probably does not give rise to functional episomal virus. Molecular evidence that the ABV sequence exists widely in A. sparsifolia is also presented. To our knowledge, this is the first endogenous badnavirus identified from plants in the Gobi desert, and may provide new clues on the evolution, geo- graphical distribution as well as the host range of the badnaviruses.展开更多
Background： Recent studies have suggested an association between elevated pelvic incidence （PI） and the development of lumbar spondylolysis. However, there is still lack of investigation for Hart Chinese people con...Background： Recent studies have suggested an association between elevated pelvic incidence （PI） and the development of lumbar spondylolysis. However, there is still lack of investigation for Hart Chinese people concerning the normal range ofspinopelvic parameters and relationship between abnormal sagittal parameters and lumbar diseases. The objective of the study was to investigate sagittal lumbosacral parameters of adult lumbar spondylolysis patients in Han Chinese population. Methods： A total of 52 adult patients with symptomatic lumbar spondylolysis treated in the General Hospital of Armed Police Force （Beijing, China） were identified as the spondylolysis group. All the 52 patients were divided into two subgroups, Subgroup A： 36 patients with simple lumbar spondylolysis, and Subgroup B： 16 patients with lumbar spondylolysis accompanying with mild lumbar spondylolisthesis （slip percentage 〈30%）. Altogether 207 healthy adults were chosen as the control group. All patients and the control group took lumbosacral lateral radiographs. Seven sagittal lumbosacral parameters, including PI, pelvic tilt （PT）, sacral slope （SS）, lumbar lordosis （LL）, L5 incidence, L5 slope, and sacral table angle （STA）, were measured in the lateral radiographs. All the parameters aforementioned were compared between the two subgroups and between the spondylolysis group and the control group with independent-sample t-test. Results： There were no statistically significant differences of all seven sagittal lumbosacral parameters between Subgroup A and Subgroup B. PI, PT, SS, and LL were higher （P 〈 0.05） in the spondylolysis group than those in the control group, but STA was lower （P 〈 0.001 ） in the spondylolysis group. Conclusions： Current study results suggest that increased PI and decreased STA may play important roles in the pathology of lumbar spondylolysis in Han Chinese population.展开更多
基金the Humanities and Social Science Fund of the Ministry of Education of China(21YJAZH077)。
文摘In a crowd density estimation dataset,the annotation of crowd locations is an extremely laborious task,and they are not taken into the evaluation metrics.In this paper,we aim to reduce the annotation cost of crowd datasets,and propose a crowd density estimation method based on weakly-supervised learning,in the absence of crowd position supervision information,which directly reduces the number of crowds by using the number of pedestrians in the image as the supervised information.For this purpose,we design a new training method,which exploits the correlation between global and local image features by incremental learning to train the network.Specifically,we design a parent-child network(PC-Net)focusing on the global and local image respectively,and propose a linear feature calibration structure to train the PC-Net simultaneously,and the child network learns feature transfer factors and feature bias weights,and uses the transfer factors and bias weights to linearly feature calibrate the features extracted from the Parent network,to improve the convergence of the network by using local features hidden in the crowd images.In addition,we use the pyramid vision transformer as the backbone of the PC-Net to extract crowd features at different levels,and design a global-local feature loss function(L2).We combine it with a crowd counting loss(LC)to enhance the sensitivity of the network to crowd features during the training process,which effectively improves the accuracy of crowd density estimation.The experimental results show that the PC-Net significantly reduces the gap between fullysupervised and weakly-supervised crowd density estimation,and outperforms the comparison methods on five datasets of Shanghai Tech Part A,ShanghaiTech Part B,UCF_CC_50,UCF_QNRF and JHU-CROWD++.
文摘In healthy intervertebral discs(IVDs),nerves and blood vessels are present only in the outer annulus fibrosus,while in degenerative IVDs,a large amount of nerve and blood vessel tissue grows inward.Evidence supports that neurogenic inflammation produced by neuropeptides such as substance P and calcitonin gene related peptide released by the nociceptive nerve fibers innervating the IVDs plays a crucial role in the process of IVD degeneration.Recently,non-neuronal cells,including IVD cells and infiltrating immune cells,have emerged as important players in neurogenic inflammation.IVD cells and infiltrating immune cells express functional receptors for neuropeptides through which they receive signals from the nervous system.In return,IVD cells and immune cells produce neuropeptides and nerve growth factor,which stimulate nerve fibers.This communication generates a positive bidirectional feedback loop that can enhance the inflammatory response of the IVD.Recently emerging transient receptor potential channels have been recognized as contributors to neurogenic inflammation in the degenerative IVDs.These findings suggest that neurogenic inflammation involves complex pathophysiological interactions between sensory nerves and multiple cell types in the degenerative IVDs.Clarifying the mechanism of neurogenic inflammation in IVD degeneration may provide in-depth understanding of the pathology of discogenic low back pain.
文摘BACKGROUND The pedicle screw-laminar hook system has strong fixation and is conducive to bone graft fusion for lumbar spondylolysis.However,the current pedicle screwlaminar hook fixation system is not specifically designed for lumbar spondylolysis.AIM To investigate the clinical effects of a new anatomical hook-rod-pedicle screw system in the treatment of lumbar spondylolysis in young adults.METHODS We designed a new anatomic hook-rod-pedicle screw system for young patients with lumbar spondylolysis.The isthmus and the corresponding pedicle screw entry point were exposed through the intermuscular approach.Autogenous iliac bone graft was obtained to bridge the isthmus defect,and then the anatomic hook-rod-pedicle screw system was used to fix the isthmus in 15 young patients.RESULTS At 24 mo follow-up,the visual analogue scale score of low back pain decreased from 6.73±0.88 to 0.73±0.59,and the Oswestry disability index score decreased from 58.20±8.99 to 7.87±4.97.Computed tomography showed bilateral isthmic bone healing in 14 cases and unilateral isthmic bone healing in 1 case.Magnetic resonance imaging showed that the lumbar disc signal of diseased segment and adjacent segments had no change compared with that before surgery.The pain visual analogue scale score of the donor site was 0.20±0.41 at the last follow-up.According to the Modified Macnab score,the excellent and good rate was 100%.CONCLUSION The application of this new anatomical hook-rod-pedicle screw system to treat young patients with lumbar spondylolysis has the advantages of less trauma,a simple operation and satisfactory clinical effects.
基金Supported by Foundation of Capital Medical Development,Beijing,China,No.2010026.
文摘BACKGROUND In recent years,the mechanical concept of intervertebral disc regeneration has become more and more popular due to the increasing awareness of the importance of preservation of spine movement.Interestingly,there is increasing evidence,however,that dynamic stabilization systems may compensate nonphysiological loads,limit pathological movement,normalize disc height and intradiscal pressure,and provide an adaptive environment for disc regeneration.CASE SUMMARY The patient was a 54-year-old man,who presented with a 10-year history of mechanical back pain,which had become progressively serious and radiated into the left lower limb with numbness 3 mo prior.He had decreased muscle strength(class IV)of the left dorsal extensor and plantar flexor.Magnetic resonance imaging scans showed L3-S1 disc degeneration and L4-L5 disc herniation.Because the patient did not respond to various conservative treatments,he underwent a posterior L4-5 discectomy with fixation of the BioFlex dynamic stabilization system(Bio-Spine,Seoul,Korea).Preoperative symptoms were relieved and lumbar function was markedly improved after the operation.L4-L5 disc rehydration of instrumented segment was noted on magnetic resonance imaging at the 2-year follow-up.CONCLUSION Rehydration of the degenerated disc in our patient indicates that the BioFlex dynamic stabilization system may promote disc regeneration.Further research is needed to provide more evidence to support lumbar disc rehydration in the bridged segment using this system.
基金This study was supported by the Postdoctoral Initiation Program of Guangzhou Economic&Technological Development District(PID2_20201102002)。
文摘A new Hairless(Hr)gene mutant mouse line(SHJH^(hr))was identified,which showed hairless skin in adult individuals as reported in rhino mice.Through Hr gene mutant identification with polymerase chain reaction(PCR)amplification and sequencing,seven mutants were identified,including nonsense mutant site 2134C→T(R467X),which produced a truncated Hr protein.Metabolic activity and heart rate were measured using a metabolic cage and blood pressure instrument,respectively.The SHJH^(hr) mice showed a strong metabolic rate,high heart rate,and low blood pressure.Histological analysis of the thyroid gland of SHJH^(hr) mice showed abnormal follicular structure and hypertrophic thyrocytes.Compared to ICR mice,thyroid function in 4-month-old SHJH^(hr) mice showed lower thyroid stimulating hormone(TSH)levels,and in 9-month-old SHJH^(hr) mice showed significantly higher TSH and thyroid hormone levels.These data indicate that SHJH^(hr) mice may be in a hyperthyroid state with increasing age.Thus,based on the above results,we successfully established a novel mouse model with thyroid dysfunction.
基金Supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2017YFA0105404。
文摘BACKGROUND Conventional plain X-ray images of rats,the most common animals used as degeneration models,exhibit unclear vertebral structure and blurry intervertebral disc spaces due to their small size,slender vertebral bodies.AIM To apply molybdenum target X-ray photography in the evaluation of caudal intervertebral disc(IVD)degeneration in rat models.METHODS Two types of rat caudal IVD degeneration models(needle-punctured model and endplate-destructed model)were established,and their effectiveness was verified using nuclear magnetic resonance imaging.Molybdenum target inspection and routine plain X-ray were then performed on these models.Additionally,four observers were assigned to measure the intervertebral height of degenerated segments on molybdenum target plain X-ray images and routine plain X-ray images,respectively.The degeneration was evaluated and statistical analysis was subsequently conducted.RESULTS Nine rats in the needle-punctured model and 10 rats in the endplate-destructed model were effective.Compared with routine plain X-ray images,molybdenum target plain X-ray images showed higher clarity,stronger contrast,as well as clearer and more accurate structural development.The McNemar test confirmed that the difference was statistically significant(P=0.031).In the two models,the reliability of the intervertebral height measured by the four observers on routine plain X-ray images was poor(ICC<0.4),while the data obtained from the molybdenum target plain X-ray images were more reliable.CONCLUSIONMolybdenum target inspection can obtain clearer images and display fine calcification in the imaging evaluation of caudal IVD degeneration in rats,thus ensuring a more accurate evaluation of degeneration.
文摘BACKGROUND Percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP)is an effective method for the treatment of neurologically intact Kümmell’s disease,but bone cement leakage during surgery is a problem that deserves attention.AIM To reduce bone cement leakage and evaluate the effect of the sequential infusion of bone cement during PVP for the treatment of stage I or II Kümmell’s disease.METHODS Patients with Kümmell’s disease treated in our hospital from September 2015 to September 2018 were retrospectively analyzed.Patients meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were divided into two groups:Traditional single infusion and sequential infusion(SI).The visual analog scale(VAS)and Oswestry disability index(ODI)were evaluated and compared,and duration of operation,bone cement content and complications were recorded.RESULTS Forty-five patients were included in this study;there were 24 in the traditional single infusion group and 21 in the SI group.The VAS and ODI were significantly different for both groups when compared pre-and postoperatively,whereas the differences between 1 wk postoperatively and at the final follow-up were not statistically.When the VAS and ODI of the two groups were compared,there were no significant differences at any time point.The leakage rate of bone cement was significantly lower in the SI group(14.3%,3 of 21)than that in the traditional single infusion group(41.7%,10 of 24).CONCLUSION SI in unipedicular PVP is a safe and effective procedure for neurologically intact Kümmell’s disease,and this technique could decrease the incidence of bone cement leakage.
文摘The aims of this study were to explore whether laparoscopic surgical resections of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors （GISTs） would produce better perioperative and similar oncologic outcomes compared with open surgical resection in Chinese patients. Thirty-six gastric GISTs cases were divided into a minimally invasive laparoscopic group and open resection group, depending on the surgical approach that was used. The general preoperative information, operative time, incision length, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative time to first flatulence, postoperative complications, postoperative hospital stay, total hospitalization costs, and such follow-up data as recurrence, metastasis, and mortality rates were compared between two groups. Among the 36 gastric GISTs, 15 received laparoscopic surgical treatment （laparoscopy group, n=15）, and 21 received routine open resection treatment （open resection group, n=21）. The laparoscopy group and the open resection group showed statistically significant differences （P〈0.05） in incision length （7.8±2.3 vs. 16.9±3.8 cm）, postoperative time to first flatulence （3.8±1.3 vs. 5.1±2.1 d）, postoperative hospitalization time （7.6±2.5 vs. 11.3±3.7 d）, and total cost of hospitalization （RMB 28,239±5,521 vs. RMB 23,761±5,362）. There were no statistically significant differences （P〉0.05） between the laparoscopy group and the open resection group in operative time （147.8±59.3 vs. 139.2±62.1 min） and intraoperative blood loss （149.8±98.9 VS. 154.2±99.3 mL）. Both groups had no postoperative complications, no recurrence and metastasis, and no postoperative mortality. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in postoperative complications, postoperative recurrence and metastasis, and postoperative mortality. In conclusion, compared with open resection, the laparoscopic resection of gastric GISTs offers the advantages of less trauma, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stay.
基金Supported by Multicenter Clinical Trial of hUC-MSCs in the Treatment of Late Chronic Spinal Cord Injury,No.2017YFA0105404the Project of Shanghai Science and Technology Commission,No.19441901702.
文摘BACKGROUND Many classification systems of thoracolumbar spinal fractures have been proposed to enhance treatment protocols,but none have achieved universal adoption.AIM To develop a new patient scoring system for cases with thoracolumbar injury classification and severity score(TLICS)=4,namely the load-sharing thoracolumbar injury score(LSTLIS).METHODS Based on thoracolumbar injury classification and severity score,this study proposes the use of the established load-sharing classification(LSC)to develop an improved classification system(LSTLIS).To prove the reliability and reproducibility of LSTLIS,a retrospective analysis for patients with thoracolumbar vertebral fractures has been conducted.RESULTS A total of 102 cases were enrolled in the study.The scoring trend of LSTLIS is roughly similar as the LSC scoring,however,the average deviation based on the former method is relatively smaller than that of the latter.Thus,the robustness of the LSTLIS scoring method is better than that of LSC.LSTLIS can further classify patients with TLICS=4,so as to assess more accurately this particular circumstance,and the majority of LSTLIS recommendations are consistent with actual clinical decisions.LSTLIS is a scoring system that combines LSC and TLICS to compensate for the lack of appropriate inclusion of anterior and middle column compression fractures with TLICS.Following preliminary clinical verification,LSTLIS has greater feasibility and reliability value,is more practical in comprehensively assessing certain clinical circumstances,and has better accuracy with clinically significant guidelines.
文摘Introduction: Laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy (LAG) for early gastric cancer (EGC) was considered as a treatment with many advantages due to the application of laparoscopic equipment. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of use of laparoscopic equipment in blood loss, the number of harvested lymph nodes (HLNs), and complications between LAG and open gastrectomy (OG) for EGC. Methods: Patients received surgical treatment for early distal gastric cancer (EDGC) were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were classified into three groups by different operation methods: traditional open distal gastrectomy (ODG) group, laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) group, and open distal gastrectomy with assistance of laparoscopic equipment (ODGA) group. Results: Altogether 65 patients with EDGC received surgical treatment, including 20 cases of ODG, 22 of LADG, and 23 of ODGA. No lymph node metastasis was found in all patients. 25 (38.5%) postoperative confirmed T2 were misdiagnosed as T1 preoperatively. Compared with ODG group, the blood loss was significantly reduced in LADG and ODGA groups (106.4 ± 46.0;and 73.3 ± 35.7 ml vs. 250.5 ± 65.1 ml respectively;P 0.01), but the operation time was significantly longer in these groups (231.0 ± 34.5, and 222.5 ± 42.6 min vs. 128.5 ± 22.3 min respectively;P 0.01). No difference was found in the blood loss, operation time, the number of harvested lymph nodes and the types of gastrointestinal continuity reconstruction between LADG and ODGA groups. No difference was found in the postoperative complications among the three groups. Conclusions: Laparoscopic equipment might be the key factor in the reduction of blood loss and the delay of operation time for LADG. Application of laparoscopic equipment in open gastrectomy can be used as a training method to shorten learning curve for LAG beginners.
基金Supported by the Multicenter Clinical Trial of hUC-MSCs in the Treatment of Late Chronic Spinal Cord Injury,No.2017YFA0105404the Key Discipline Construction Project of Pudong Health Bureau of Shanghai,No.PWZxk2017-08.
文摘BACKGROUND Postoperative unobstructed drainage is an important measure for avoiding hematoma formation and preventing complications from anterior cervical surgery.AIM To discuss the characteristics and key points of clinical management of two types of commonly used negative pressure drainage systems in clinical settings.METHODS Two types of commonly used silica gel negative pressure drainage balls and a type of gastrointestinal decompression apparatus were fully emptied and then injected with different amounts of water and air.Following this,the negative pressure values of the three devices were measured.Meanwhile,we undertook a retrospective analysis of the clinical data of 1328 patients who had been treated with different negative pressure drainage apparatuses during their anterior cervical surgery in our department between January 2007 and January 2018.RESULTS As the amount of injected air or water increased,the negative pressure of the silica gel negative pressure drainage ball decreased rapidly,dropping to zero when 150 mL of water or air was injected.In contrast,the negative pressure of gastrointestinal decompression apparatus decreased slowly,maintaining an ideal value even when 300 mL of water or air was injected.And statistical analysis demonstrated that patients who had been treated with the gastrointestinal decompression apparatus were less likely to develop severe complications than those who had been treated with the silica gel negative pressure drainage ball(P<0.05).CONCLUSION This study showed that the gastrointestinal decompression apparatus has the advantages of large suction capacity,long duration of continuous negative pressure,and good drainage effect,all of which are the favorable factors for the use of this apparatus for negative pressure drainage in anterior cervical surgery.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2016YFA0301801)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.11474154 and 61521001)the Priority Academic Development Program of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions and Dengfeng Project B of Nanjing University,China
文摘Using the diluted S1813 UV photoresist as a sacrificial layer, we successfully fabricate a superconducting suspended parallel-plate capacitor, in which the top layer of aluminum film acts as a membrane mechanical resonator. Together with a superconducting octagonal spiral inductor, this parallel-plate capacitor constitutes a superconducting microwave resonator. At m K temperature, the transmission characteristic and spectrum of the microwave resonator are measured.Sideband frequencies caused by the vibration of the membrane mechanical resonator are clearly demonstrated. By downconverting with a mixer, the dependence of fundamental frequency and its harmonics on the input microwave power are clearly demonstrated, which is consistent with the numerical simulation.
文摘Dear Editor, Drought is the most devastating factor limiting the pro- ductivity and geographical distribution of rice （Oryza sativa）. Several drought-tolerant varieties have been developed from drought-tolerant germplasm. These varieties make it imper- ative to clarity the mechanism of drought responses at the genomic level, which will provide a foundation for future breeding and genetic engineering efforts （Zhou et al., 2007）. Yangdao6 （YD6） was used to breed many elite varieties in China, which was developed from Yangdao2 （YD2） through a series of crosses （Supplemental Figure 1）. Here, we veri- fied that YD6 seedlings showed better drought tolerance than YD2, Yangdao4 （YD4）, and 3021 seedlings （Figure 1A）. After drought treatment for 8 d, over 81.9% of YD2 plants were rolled, which is about three times that of YD6 plants. Recovering normal growth with water, the survival rates of YD6 and YD2 seedlings were 92.2% and 65.6%, respectively.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.31370181 and 31570146)the Fujian Natural Science Funds for Distinguished Young Scholar(No.2014J06008),China
文摘We report the recovery of a 7068-nt viral sequence from the ＂viral fossils＂ embedded in the genome of Alhagi sparsifolia, a typical desert plant. Although the full viral genome remains to be completed, the putative genome structure, the deduced amino acids and phylogenetic analysis unambiguously demonstrate that this viral sequence represents a novel species of the genus Badnavirus. The putative virus is tentatively termed Alhagi bacilliform virus （ABV）. Southern blotting and inverse polymerase chain reaction （PCR） data indicate that the ABV-related sequence is integrated into the A. sparsifolia genome, and probably does not give rise to functional episomal virus. Molecular evidence that the ABV sequence exists widely in A. sparsifolia is also presented. To our knowledge, this is the first endogenous badnavirus identified from plants in the Gobi desert, and may provide new clues on the evolution, geo- graphical distribution as well as the host range of the badnaviruses.
文摘Background： Recent studies have suggested an association between elevated pelvic incidence （PI） and the development of lumbar spondylolysis. However, there is still lack of investigation for Hart Chinese people concerning the normal range ofspinopelvic parameters and relationship between abnormal sagittal parameters and lumbar diseases. The objective of the study was to investigate sagittal lumbosacral parameters of adult lumbar spondylolysis patients in Han Chinese population. Methods： A total of 52 adult patients with symptomatic lumbar spondylolysis treated in the General Hospital of Armed Police Force （Beijing, China） were identified as the spondylolysis group. All the 52 patients were divided into two subgroups, Subgroup A： 36 patients with simple lumbar spondylolysis, and Subgroup B： 16 patients with lumbar spondylolysis accompanying with mild lumbar spondylolisthesis （slip percentage 〈30%）. Altogether 207 healthy adults were chosen as the control group. All patients and the control group took lumbosacral lateral radiographs. Seven sagittal lumbosacral parameters, including PI, pelvic tilt （PT）, sacral slope （SS）, lumbar lordosis （LL）, L5 incidence, L5 slope, and sacral table angle （STA）, were measured in the lateral radiographs. All the parameters aforementioned were compared between the two subgroups and between the spondylolysis group and the control group with independent-sample t-test. Results： There were no statistically significant differences of all seven sagittal lumbosacral parameters between Subgroup A and Subgroup B. PI, PT, SS, and LL were higher （P 〈 0.05） in the spondylolysis group than those in the control group, but STA was lower （P 〈 0.001 ） in the spondylolysis group. Conclusions： Current study results suggest that increased PI and decreased STA may play important roles in the pathology of lumbar spondylolysis in Han Chinese population.
