bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constructing an oxygen vacancy- and hydroxyl-rich TiO2-supported Pd catalyst with improved Pd dispersion and catalytic stability
Authors: Liu Huimin , Yuan Chenyi , Wu Shipeng , Sun Chao , Huang Zhen , Xu Hualong , Shen Wei
Published: September 2023

Surface property modification of catalyst support is a straightforward approach to optimize the performance of supported noble metal catalysts. In particular, oxygen vacancies and hydroxyl groups play significant roles in promoting noble metal dispersion on catalysts as well as catalytic stability. In this study, we developed a nanoflower-like TiO2-supported Pd catalyst that has a higher concentration of oxygen vacancies and surface hydroxyl groups compared to that of commercial anatase and P25 support. Notably, due to the distinctive structure of the nanoflower-like TiO2, our catalyst exhibited improved dispersion and stabilization of Pd species and the formation of abundant reactive oxygen species, thereby facilitating the activation of CO and O2 molecules. As a result, the catalyst showed remarkable efficiency in catalyzing the low-temperature CO oxidation reaction with a complete CO conversion at 80 °C and stability for over 100 h.
Molecular ecology of the Javanese ricefish, Oryzias javanicus (Bleeker): genetic divergence along the Indonesian Archipelago
Authors: Hardianto Eko , Hirayama Mio , Wijayanti Diah Permata , Imai Hideyuki
Published: September 2023

Context Investigating the patterns of genetic diversity and population structure of the Javanese ricefish, Oryzias javanicus, is instrumental in identifying their dispersal patterns and demographics in response to ecological changes and biogeographical barriers. Aims To acquire a better understanding of the evolutionary history of Javanese ricefish. Methods We sequenced part of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region in 335 individuals and genotyped 280 individuals for four microsatellite loci from seven Indonesian sites. Key results Both genetic diversity (h = 0.19–0.86 and DIVGene = 0.10–0.43) and nucleotide diversity (π = 0.06–0.61%) were low compared with other fish taxa. The analysis of molecular variance showed considerable genetic differences (P < 0.0001) for both genetic markers across all sampled locations. These results suggest that there has been a historical restriction on gene flow. Conclusion The observed population-structure pattern reflects a short pelagic larval development, which is closely linked to a restricted dispersal potential. This ultimately leads to isolation by distance, potentially allowing local adaptation to sites that augment any oceanographic, geographic, or biological barriers to gene flow. Implications The results presented in this study can be used to create more effective ways to protect the species in question.
Signatures of Cooper pair dynamics and quantum-critical superconductivity in tunable carrier bands
Authors: Dong Zhiyu , Lee Patrick A. , Levitov Leonid S.
Published: September 2023

Different superconducting pairing mechanisms are markedly distinct in the underlying Cooper pair kinematics. Quantum-critical soft modes drive pairing interactions in which the pair scattering processes are highly collinear and can be classified into two categories: forward scattering and backscattering. Conversely, in conventional phonon mechanisms, Cooper pair scattering is of a generic noncollinear character. In this study, we present a method to discern the kinematic type by observing the evolution of superconductivity while adjusting the Fermi surface geometry. To demonstrate our approach, we utilize the recently reported phase diagrams of untwisted graphene multilayers. Our analysis connects the emergence of superconductivity at “ghost crossings” of Fermi surfaces in distinct valleys to the pair kinematics of a backscattering type. Together with the observed nonmonotonic behavior of superconductivity near its onset (sharp rise followed by a drop), it lends strong support to a particular quantum-critical superconductivity scenario in which pairing is driven by intervalley coherence fluctuations. These findings offer direct insights into the genesis of pairing in these systems, providing compelling evidence for the electron–electron interactions driving superconductivity. More broadly, our work highlights the potential of tuning bands via ghost crossings as a promising means of boosting superconductivity.
Pedal Power to the People? Cycle Tourism and Local Economic Development in Cuba
Authors: Sharpe Erin
Published: September 2023

Cycle tourism is a rapidly growing niche sector of the tourism industry and has been highlighted for its potential as a tool for socio-economic development, particularly in rural communities. Although tourism is well established in Cuba, it is primarily beach-based and massively controlled by state entities. However, Cuba has recently made a series of legislative changes intended to grow private sector small business opportunities. These changes open up the possibility for Cuban people to play a greater economic role in tourism than previously, if opportunities can be identified and challenges overcome. This case study considers the potential of cycle tourism as a form of people-powering tourism in Cuba. Using interview, field-based, and textual data, this case study maps the current state of cycle tourism, its actors and their interactions, and the opportunities, current challenges, and requirements to grow people-powering cycling tourism in Cuba.

Information

© The Author 2023
Peroxisomal ROS control cytosolic Mycobacterium tuberculosis replication in human macrophages
Authors: Pellegrino Enrica , Aylan Beren , Bussi Claudio , Fearns Antony , Bernard Elliott M. , Athanasiadi Natalia , Santucci Pierre , Botella Laure , Gutierrez Maximiliano G.
Published: September 2023

Peroxisomes are organelles involved in many metabolic processes including lipid metabolism, reactive oxygen species (ROS) turnover, and antimicrobial immune responses. However, the cellular mechanisms by which peroxisomes contribute to bacterial elimination in macrophages remain elusive. Here, we investigated peroxisome function in iPSC-derived human macrophages (iPSDM) during infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). We discovered that Mtb-triggered peroxisome biogenesis requires the ESX-1 type 7 secretion system, critical for cytosolic access. iPSDM lacking peroxisomes were permissive to Mtb wild-type (WT) replication but were able to restrict an Mtb mutant missing functional ESX-1, suggesting a role for peroxisomes in the control of cytosolic but not phagosomal Mtb. Using genetically encoded localization-dependent ROS probes, we found peroxisomes increased ROS levels during Mtb WT infection. Thus, human macrophages respond to the infection by increasing peroxisomes that generate ROS primarily to restrict cytosolic Mtb. Our data uncover a peroxisome-controlled, ROS-mediated mechanism that contributes to the restriction of cytosolic bacteria.
Angular dependence of the magnetization relaxation in Co/Pt multilayers
Authors: Adhikari Anil , Herrington Bryce , Nguyen Nhat , Zielinski Ruthi , Mahmood Ather , Adenwalla Shireen , Streubel Robert
Published: September 2023

We study the influence of defects in Co/Pt multilayers on the room-temperature magnetization reversal and relaxation mechanisms via angle-dependent magnetic viscosity and coercive field measurements. The data reveal a transition from pinning-dominated domain wall propagation to a sequence of pinning-dominated and uniform switching, with increasing tilt away from the normal direction. The leading role of the dendritic domain wall propagation in the nanogranular exchange-coupled films is corroborated by the scaling of relaxation times, the angular dependence of the coercive field, and Kerr microscopy.
High-mobility spin-polarized two-dimensional electron gas at the interface of EuTiO3/SrTiO3 heterostructures
Authors: Wang Zhao-Cai , Zhang Ying , Li Zheng-Nan , Li Shuang-Shuang , Ying Jing-Shi , Yan Wei , Chen Lei , Zhang Shu-Juan , Luo Fu-Sheng , Zhao Weiyao , Ye Mao , Zheng Ren-Kui
Published: September 2023

Spin polarization of two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at the interface of EuTiO3/SrTiO3(STO) heterostructures has been theoretical predicted and experimentally observed via x-ray magnetic circular dichroism and polarized x-ray absorption spectroscopy, which, however, is lack of magnetotransport evidence. Here, we report the fabrication of high-quality EuTiO3/STO heterostructures by depositing antiferromagnetic insulating EuTiO3 thin films onto STO substrates. Shubnikov-de Haas oscillation, Hall, and magnetoresistance (MR) measurements show that the interface is not only highly conducting, with electron mobility up to

5.5
×

10
3

cm2V−1s−1 at 1.8 K, but also shows low-field hysteretic MR effects. MR of ∼9% is observed at 1.8 K and 20 Oe, which is one order of magnitude higher than those observed in other spin-polarized 2DEG oxide systems. Moreover, the heterostructures show ferromagnetic hysteresis loops. These results demonstrate that the high-mobility 2DEG is spin polarized, whose origin is attributed to the interfacial Ti3+-3d states due to oxygen deficiency and the exchange interactions between interfacial Eu spins and itinerant Ti-3d electrons.
An enhanced outlier processing approach based on the resilient mathematical model compensation in GNSS precise positioning and navigation
Authors: Zhang Zhetao , Li Xuezhen , Yuan Haijun , Luo Yiran
Published: September 2023

The abnormal measurements are widely existent in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) precise positioning and navigation mainly because of the diffraction, reflection, refraction, and even non-line-of-sight reception. However, when multiple outliers exist in GNSS measurements, traditional methods including test procedure or robust estimation usually cannot work well. This study proposed an enhanced outlier processing approach based on the resilient mathematical model compensation. Specifically, first, to avoid excessive deletion, the total number of measurements is considered in the adaptive test procedure with the help of a scale factor. Second, in adaptive robust estimation, the total number of remaining measurements is also considered, thus making it more compatible with the adaptive test procedure. In addition, to overcome the potential inappropriate reweighting operator, different shrinking factors are adopted for code and phase measurements according to their precision, respectively. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, one static monitoring experiment and one kinematic vehicle experiment were conducted, where the method without outlier processing, traditional test procedure, traditional robust estimation, and the proposed method were all used. For the static experiment, the ambiguity resolution and positioning solutions of the proposed method perform best. The positioning accuracy of the float and fixed solutions can be improved by approximately 67.4% and 77.6% on average under challenging environments, respectively. For the kinematic experiment, the performance is also the best in terms of positioning availability and accuracy by using the proposed method.
The characterisation of a phase micro-stepper
Authors: Křen Petr
Published: September 2023

The frequency steering of the local standard time is a common procedure for the timekeeping. The local radiofrequency reference output is modified by a phase and frequency offset generator to corresponds to the global timescales such as the International Atomic Time and Coordinated Universal Time timescales. The phase and frequency offset generator, also known as the phase micro-stepper, is used for such timescales for many years but it has not been very well characterized. It will be shown for a particular type of the phase micro-stepper that its phase delay error can exceed 10 ps and its frequency offset error can be relatively more than 10−16 of the reference frequency.
Large-view x-ray imaging for medical applications using the world’s only vertically polarized synchrotron radiation beam and a single asymmetric Si crystal
Authors: Kamezawa Chika , Hyodo Kazuyuki , Tokunaga Chiho , Tsukada Toru , Matushita Shonosuke
Published: September 2023

Objective. X-ray microangiography provides detailed information on the internal structure and function of a biological subject. Its ability to evaluate the microvasculature of small animals is useful for acquiring basic and clinical medical knowledge. The following three conditions are necessary to attain detailed knowledge of biological functions: (1) high temporal resolution with sufficient x-ray intensity, (2) high spatial resolution, and (3) a wide field of view. Because synchrotron radiation microangiography systems provide high sapatial resolution and high temporal resolution as a result of their high x-ray intensity, such systems have been developed at various synchrotron radiation facilities, starting with the photon factory, leading to numerous medical discoveries. However, the three aforementioned functions are incompatible with the use of synchrotron radiation because the x-ray intensity decreases when a wide field of view is obtained. To overcome these problems, we developed a new x-ray optical system for microangiography in rats using synchrotron radiation x-rays. Approach. Instead of using monochromatic synchrotron radiation x-rays with a conventional double-crystal monochromator, we used white synchrotron radiation x-rays and an asymmetric Si crystal to simultaneously monochromatize the beam and widen the field of view. Main results. The intensity profile and spatial resolution of the x-ray images were then evaluated. The proposed x-ray optics increased the x-ray intensity and beam width by factors of 1.3 and 2.7, respectively, compared with those of conventional monochromatic x-rays. In addition, in vivo studies on microangiography in rats were performed to confirm that the images had sufficient intensity, spatial resolution, and field of view. One of a series of images taken at 50 ms frame−1 was shown as an example. Significance. This x-ray optics provides sufficient x-ray intensity, high spatial resolution, and a wide field of view. This technique is expected providing new insights into the evaluation of the vascular system.
Description of bandgaps opening in chiral phononic crystals by analogy with Thomson scattering
Authors: Ding Wei , Chen Tianning , Chen Chen , Chronopoulos Dimitrios , Assouar Badreddine , Wen Yongzheng , Zhu Jian
Published: September 2023

Chiral phononic crystals (PnCs) provide unique properties not offered by conventional metamaterial based on classic Bragg scattering and local resonance. However, it is insufficient to only consider the inertial amplification effect to describe its bandgap mechanism due to the absence of the bandgap caused by the chirality in some specific chiral structures. Here, we theoretically and experimentally introduce an analogy with Thomson scattering in electromagnetic waves to characterize the bandgap phenomena in chiral PnCs with translation–rotation coupling. Another phononic structures with translation–translation coupling are proposed to illustrate the universality of the analogy. We evidence that the coupling motion in chiral unit cells is similar to the result of Thomson scattering, which quantitatively formulizing as inertial amplification in theory and, twice elastic Thomson scattering allows the waves in the same polarization mode to superpose in antiphase, which is essence of the bandgap formation. This finding sheds a new light on the physics of the elastodynamic wave manipulation in chiral PnCs, thus opening a definite route for the pragmatic exploitation of chiral PnCs as well as other structures with motion coupling in achieving low-frequency and broad bandgaps.
Ice rule breakdown and frustrated antiferrotoroidicity in an artificial colloidal Cairo ice
Authors: Rodríguez-Gallo Carolina , Ortiz-Ambriz Antonio , Nisoli Cristiano , Tierno Pietro
Published: September 2023

We combine experiments and numerical simulations to investigate the low energy states and the emergence of topological defects in an artificial colloidal ice in the Cairo geometry. This type of geometry is characterized by a mixed coordination (z), with coexistence of both z = 3 and z = 4 vertices. We realize this particle ice by confining field tunable paramagnetic colloidal particles within a lattice of topographic double wells at a one to one filling using optical tweezers. By raising the interaction strength via an applied magnetic field, we find that the ice rule breaks down, and positive monopoles with charge

q
=
+
2

accumulate in the z = 4 vertices and are screened by negative ones (

q
=
−
1

) in the z = 3. The resulting, strongly coupled state remains disordered. Further, via analysis of the mean chirality associated to each pentagonal plaquette, we find that the disordered ensemble for this geometry is massively degenerate and it corresponds to a frustrated antiferrotoroid.
Federated quanvolutional neural network: a new paradigm for collaborative quantum learning
Authors: Bhatia Amandeep Singh , Kais Sabre , Alam Muhammad Ashraful
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the concept of federated machine learning has been actively driven by scientists to ease the privacy concerns of data owners. Currently, the combination of machine learning and quantum computing technologies is a hot industry topic and is positioned to be a major disruptor. It has become an effective new tool for reshaping several industries ranging from healthcare to finance. Data sharing poses a significant hurdle for large-scale machine learning in numerous industries. It is a natural goal to study the advanced quantum computing ecosystem, which will be comprised of heterogeneous federated resources. In this work, the problem of data governance and privacy is handled by developing a quantum federated learning approach, that can be efficiently executed on quantum hardware in the noisy intermediate-scale quantum era. We present the federated hybrid quantum–classical algorithm called a quanvolutional neural network with distributed training on different sites without exchanging data. The hybrid algorithm requires small quantum circuits to produce meaningful features for image classification tasks, which makes it ideal for near-term quantum computing. The primary goal of this work is to evaluate the potential benefits of hybrid quantum–classical and classical-quantum convolutional neural networks on non-independently and non-identically partitioned (Non-IID) and real-world data partitioned datasets among several healthcare institutions/clients. We investigated the performance of a collaborative quanvolutional neural network on two medical machine learning datasets, COVID-19 and MedNIST. Extensive experiments are carried out to validate the robustness and feasibility of the proposed quantum federated learning framework. Our findings demonstrate a decrease of 2%–39% times in necessary communication rounds compared to the federated stochastic gradient descent approach. The hybrid federated framework maintained a high classification testing accuracy and generalizability, even in scenarios where the medical data is unevenly distributed among clients.
Performance and degradation analysis for different solar photovoltaic technologies under hot and humid environment: a review
Authors: Makhija Amandeep Singh , Bohra Shabbir S
Published: September 2023

Solar photovoltaic (SPV) systems installed on water bodies, i.e. floating solar PV (FSPV) and canal top solar PV (CTSPV), have gained significant propulsion in recent years, not only because of their enormous potential but also because of other additional co-benefits. This review article discusses the scope and potential of FSPV and CTSPV, an ambitious plan, and various upcoming FSPV projects in India. The review focuses on different degradation modes, failure mechanisms, characterization techniques and distinct factors influencing the degradation of SPVs operating in tropical climates. It was explored that potential induced degradation and materialistic degradation have a significant impact on the performance of SPV. The paper provides an overview of the test procedures outlined in IEC-61215 and IEC-62804 that pertain to SPV performance under hot and humid conditions. Additionally, it presents a comprehensive review of the various methodologies adopted for accelerated damp heat testing to predict the life of PV systems in such conditions, and their significant quantitative and visual outcomes is elucidated. Also, till date, no simulation tool has been available to assess the long-term performance of SPV in a humid environment. As this energy generation technique is still in its infancy, this study will help many researchers and solar power developers recognize the impact of elevated and prolonged exposure to temperature and humidity on generation, degradation, and mode of failure for different SPV technologies.
Evaluating the elastic behaviour of boron nitride nanotube (BNNT) reinforced phenolic nanocomposites
Authors: Sinha Sumit Kumar , Kumar Dinesh , Goel Saurav , Patnaik Amar
Published: September 2023

The present analysis concerns investigation of the elastic behavior of boron nitride nanotube (BNNT)-reinforced phenolic nanocomposite using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. In the investigation, an armchair BNNT with chiral vectors (10, 10) was used as reinforcement and novolac-type phenolic chains and formaldehyde mixture was used as a matrix. The crosslinking of phenolic chains and formaldehyde mixture was achieved to obtain the three-dimensional crosslinked structure reinforced with BNNT. In addition to the tensile elastic modulus, the glass transition temperature was evaluated for the bulk phenolic resin and the nanocomposite using the density-temperature relationship. Based on the results, it was concluded that 6.8% (volume fraction) of BNNT can enhance the elastic modulus of the composite by ∼15 times. Poisson’s ratio was found to be independent of the mixing ratio. It was also observed that reinforcement with BNNT can enhance the glass transition temperature of the nanocomposite. Continuum-based rule of mixture showed a good correlation with the MD predictions.
Grounding the Moral Force of Socially Constructed Norms
Authors: Valentini Laura
Published: September 2023

This chapter asks whether we can ever be morally obligated to perform a given action because the action is mandated by socially constructed norms. Answering this question requires identifying a plausible moral principle P lending moral significance to the fact that certain actions are norm-mandated. After casting doubt on the “deflationary view”—which denies that such a principle exists—the chapter considers four candidate principles, each corresponding to a distinctive view of the moral normativity of socially constructed norms. These are: the “established practices view”, the “conventionalist view”, the “normative-interests view”, and the “joint commitments view”. The chapter discusses the strengths and weaknesses of each view and concludes that none of them is fully satisfactory.
Incontinence during and following hospitalisation: a prospective study of prevalence, incidence and association with clinical outcomes
Authors: Campbell Jill , Hubbard Ruth , Ostaszkiewicz Joan , Green Theresa , Coyer Fiona , Mudge Alison
Published: September 2023

Background

Incontinence is common in hospitalised older adults but few studies report new incidence during or following hospitalisation.

Objective

To describe prevalence and incidence of incontinence in older inpatients and associations with clinical outcomes.

Design

Secondary analysis of prospectively collected data from consecutive consenting inpatients age 65 years and older on medical and surgical wards in four Australian public hospitals.

Methods

Participants self-reported urinary and faecal incontinence 2 weeks prior to admission, at hospital discharge and 30 days after discharge as part of comprehensive assessment by a trained research assistant. Outcomes were length of stay, facility discharge, 30-day readmission and 6-month mortality.

Results

Analysis included 970 participants (mean age 76.7 years, 48.9% female). Urinary and/or faecal incontinence was self-reported in 310/970 (32.0%, [95% confidence interval (CI) 29.0–35.0]) participants 2 weeks before admission, 201/834 (24.1% [95% CI 21.2–27.2]) at discharge and 193/776 (24.9% [95% CI 21.9–28.1]) 30 days after discharge. Continence patterns were dynamic within the peri-hospital period. Of participants without pre-hospital incontinence, 74/567 (13.1% [95% CI 10.4–16.1) reported incontinence at discharge and 85/537 (15.8% [95% CI 12.8–19.2]) reported incontinence at 30 days follow-up. Median hospital stay was longer in participants with pre-hospital incontinence (7 vs. 6 days, P = 0.02) even in adjusted analyses and pre-hospital incontinence was significantly associated with mortality in unadjusted but not adjusted analyses.

Conclusion

Pre-hospital, hospital-acquired and new post-hospital incontinence are common in older inpatients. Better understanding of incontinence patterns may help target interventions to reduce this complication.
Exposure–response relation for vibration-induced white finger: effect of different methods for predicting prevalence
Authors: Scholz Magdalena F , Brammer Anthony J , Marburg Steffen
Published: September 2023

A pooled analysis of vibration-induced white finger (VWF) in population groups of workers has been performed using the results of a published meta-analysis as source material (Nilsson T, Wahlström J, Burström L. Hand-arm vibration and the risk of vascular and neurological diseases a systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2017:12(7):e0180795. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180795). The methods of data selection follow those described previously by Scholz et al. (in Scholz MF, Brammer AJ, Marburg S. Exposure-response relation for vibration-induced white finger: inferences from a published meta-analysis of population groups. Int Arch Occup Environ Health. 2023a:96(5):757–770. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00420-023-01965-w) to enable comparison with the results of the present work. The analyzed epidemiologic studies contain different prevalences of VWF observed after different durations of employment involving exposure to the vibration of power tools and machines. These prevalences are transformed to 10% prevalence by either linear or polynomial (i.e. “S”-shaped curvilinear) interpolation in order to compare with the exposure–response relation contained in the relevant international standard (ISO 5349-1:2001). An exposure–response relation is constructed using regression analysis for the time (in years) to reach 10% prevalence in a population group, when subjected to a daily vibration exposure calculated according to the procedures specified in the standard, A(8). Good fits to the data are obtained when polynomial and linear prevalence interpolation is used. The 95-percentile confidence intervals (CIs) of the exposure–response relation predicted by polynomial prevalence interpolation lie at somewhat larger lifetime exposures than those obtained by linear prevalence interpolation. Uncertainty in the precision of polynomial prevalence interpolation is mitigated by giving equal weight to linear interpolation when interpreting the results. When the 95-percentile CIs of the exposure–response models obtained by linear and polynomial prevalence interpolation are used to define the most probable exposure–response relation, the resulting common range of values includes the ISO exposure–response relation. It is proposed that an exposure–response relation for the onset of VWF derived from a regression analysis is specified in terms of the lower limit of its CI. Hence, when exposure measures are constructed according to the ISO standard and equal weight is given to the results of the 2 methods for interpolating prevalence described here, the ISO exposure–response relation would be considered to provide a conservative estimate for a 10% prevalence of VWF to develop in a population group, at least for A(8) > 4 m/s2. It thus remains the relation to use for assessing exposure to hand-transmitted vibration in the workplace. Additional research is needed to resolve inconsistencies in the ISO method for calculating daily exposures.
Preferred Nasolabial Angle in Rhinoplasty: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Alshawaf Solaiman M , McGuire Connor , ElAbd Rawan , Fakih-Gomez Nabil , Williams Jason , AlYouha Sarah , Samargandi Osama A
Published: September 2023

Background

The perception of an ideal nose is influenced by a variety of factors, with demographic characteristics playing a significant role in what is considered an ideal nose. The nasolabial angle (NLA) is considered one of the defining features shaping the nose.

Objectives

In this study we set out to capture the perception of the ideal nasolabial angle among Canadian, Saudi, Kuwaiti, and Lebanese populations.

Methods

An online questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the ideal nasolabial angle among Canadian, Saudi, Kuwaiti, and Lebanese populations (n = 197). Participants were patients attending outpatient clinics, plastic surgery residents, and medical students. The questionnaire included demographics and the perception of respondents of the ideal NLA for each gender: male (85°, 90°, 95°, 100°, 110°) and females (95°, 100°, 110°, 115°).

Results

The majority of respondents were female (81.2%), ages between 20 and 39 (84.3%). The mean and standard deviation of ideal NLA choices in both male and female models were 97.1 ± 6.39 and 109.5 ± 5.32, respectively. The ideal male NLA choices were found to correlate significantly with age (P = .044) and work status (P = .019). In choosing the ideal female NLA, age was a significant factor (P = .012).

Conclusions

Identifying the ideal NLA is essential to establishing aesthetic goals for patient and surgeon alike. It is important to understand the effects of demographics on the choice of the ideal NLA, which ultimately influences the planning and outcome of the rhinoplasty procedure.

Level of Evidence: 5
The Brazilian Butt Lift Remains the Deadliest Aesthetic Surgery Procedure: Are Plastic Surgeons Adjusting Their Surgical Practice to Promote Safety?
Authors: Finkelstein Emily R , Wo Luccie , Garcia Onelio , Kassira Wrood
Published: September 2023

Background

The number of Brazilian butt lift (BBL) fatalities remains high in the United States despite numerous practice advisories geared towards patient safety and reducing the incidence of fatal pulmonary fat emboli.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate US board-certified plastic surgeons’ opinions, understanding of BBL-related mortality, and current risk-reducing surgical practices for BBL procedures.

Methods

An online 18-question survey was distributed via email by the Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation to national board-certified plastic surgeon members of the The Aesthetic Society. Survey responses were collected over 21 days on the Qualtrics platform.

Results

The survey response rate was 10% (n = 178). Of the 77% who performed BBL procedures, 48% (n = 80) did not use ultrasound. Approximately 60% (n = 102) of all respondents disagreed with imposing regulations to require ultrasound, with the most frequent reason being that it was unnecessary with adequate surgeon experience (45%). Plastic surgeons thought that high-volume budget clinics (n = 64) and a lack of regulations imposed on individual surgeons by boards of medicine (n = 31) were the greatest contributors to BBL mortality.

Conclusions

Most US plastic surgeons did not use ultrasound for BBL procedures and did not agree that ultrasound should be required, which may partially be the result of unsuccessful educational outreach for risk-reducing practices and training for ultrasound. Regulations by the boards of medicine imposed on individual surgeons, in combination with new legislation targeted at ownership of high-volume clinics, are strongly backed by surgeon respondents as measures that may improve patient safety.

Level of Evidence: 5
Patient-Reported Outcomes Following Breast Reconstruction With the Transverse Myocutaneous Gracilis Flap Using the BREAST-Q and Lower Extremity Function Scale
Authors: Mahrhofer Maximilian , Schwaiger Karl , Fierdel Frederic , Russe Elisabeth , Hitzl Wolfgang , Schoeller Thomas , Wechselberger Gottfried , Weitgasser Laurenz
Published: September 2023

Background

The transverse myocutaneous gracilis (TMG) flap is a viable and safe option for breast reconstruction in patients with limited abdominal tissue or other contraindications for abdominal-based flaps. Although it is one of the most common flaps employed for breast reconstruction, data on patient-reported outcomes is limited.

Objectives

The authors seek to evaluate patient satisfaction and aesthetic outcome after breast reconstruction with the TMG flap.

Methods

All patients who underwent breast reconstruction with a TMG flap between March 2010 and October 2020 were identified. Invitation to a digital version of the BREAST-Q reconstructive module and the Lower Extremity Function Scale (LEFS) was sent to 105 patients. Patient demographics, complications, and surgical details were collected and retrospectively analyzed. BREAST-Q and LEFS scores were calculated and compared to the literature.

Results

Eighty-two patients participated in the study. Median follow-up was 5.9 years, with a mean patient age of 45.7 years. Most patients (90.2%) received treatment due to previous cancer of the breast, and 17.1% underwent immediate reconstruction. The mean score for “Satisfaction with Breast” was 66/100. Postoperative lower extremity function was high, with a median LEFS score of 78/80. A LEFS score below the median value was found to be significantly associated with active smoking (P = .049). Patients also reported high satisfaction with donor sites (8/11).

Conclusions

Patient satisfaction and aesthetic outcome after breast reconstruction with TMG flaps is high and comparable to other common techniques. Lower extremity function is not impaired after flap harvest.

Level of Evidence: 3
Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in a Facial Reconstruction Case Series Following the Implementation of an Integrated Craniofacial Multidisciplinary Team Clinic, Three-Dimensional Photography, and Computer Modeling
Authors: Singh Prateush , Chan Kayen , Dhar Shivani , Ashby Imogen , Krumhuber Eva , Mosahebi Afshin , Ponniah Allan
Published: September 2023

Background

Facial reconstruction surgery is often a complex and staged process, leading to lengthy reconstructive journeys for patients. The integration of a clinical pathway can give patients a clearer understanding of what to expect at each stage of their reconstructive journey.

Objectives

The authors demonstrate how the incorporation of multidisciplinary team clinics, three-dimensional (3D) photography, and 3D modeling into an integrated pathway can streamline the process for patients undergoing facial reconstructive surgeries and aid their understanding of their surgeries.

Methods

A novel clinical pathway was developed for patients undergoing facial reconstructive surgery at a tertiary reconstructive unit in London. A case series was collated of 35 patients who had been through the integrated pathway. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were assessed using FACE-Q scales, Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, Self-Perception of Age score, and Ordinal Rank change in facial aesthetic appearance, determined subjectively and objectively. Statistical analysis was performed to calculate mean averages for each scale and PROM.

Results

High patient satisfaction with overall facial appearance, aging appearance, and the decision-making process was demonstrated. The average perceived improvement in age-related facial appearance was −7.7 years postreconstruction compared with prereconstruction. The Ordinal Rank improvement on facial aesthetic appearance showed considerable improvement, both subjectively and objectively.

Conclusions

The authors advocate the implementation of an integrated clinical pathway for facial reconstruction, with positive impacts observed in terms of patient satisfaction and objective assessments of facial appearance. Similar principles can be extrapolated to other aspects of reconstructive surgery.

Level of Evidence: 3
HQAlign: aligning nanopore reads for SV detection using current-level modeling
Authors: Joshi Dhaivat , Diggavi Suhas , Chaisson Mark J P , Kannan Sreeram
Published: September 2023

Motivation

Detection of structural variants (SVs) from the alignment of sample DNA reads to the reference genome is an important problem in understanding human diseases. Long reads that can span repeat regions, along with an accurate alignment of these long reads play an important role in identifying novel SVs. Long-read sequencers, such as nanopore sequencing, can address this problem by providing very long reads but with high error rates, making accurate alignment challenging. Many errors induced by nanopore sequencing have a bias because of the physics of the sequencing process and proper utilization of these error characteristics can play an important role in designing a robust aligner for SV detection problems. In this article, we design and evaluate HQAlign, an aligner for SV detection using nanopore sequenced reads. The key ideas of HQAlign include (i) using base-called nanopore reads along with the nanopore physics to improve alignments for SVs, (ii) incorporating SV-specific changes to the alignment pipeline, and (iii) adapting these into existing state-of-the-art long-read aligner pipeline, minimap2 (v2.24), for efficient alignments.

Results

We show that HQAlign captures about 4%–6% complementary SVs across different datasets, which are missed by minimap2 alignments while having a standalone performance at par with minimap2 for real nanopore reads data. For the common SV calls between HQAlign and minimap2, HQAlign improves the start and the end breakpoint accuracy by about 10%–50% for SVs across different datasets. Moreover, HQAlign improves the alignment rate to 89.35% from minimap2 85.64% for nanopore reads alignment to recent telomere-to-telomere CHM13 assembly, and it improves to 86.65% from 83.48% for nanopore reads alignment to GRCh37 human genome.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/joshidhaivat/HQAlign.git.
East is East? Beyond the Global North and Global South in Criminology
Authors: Piacentini Laura , Slade Gavin
Published: September 2023

This paper identifies an absence in currently constituted criminological discourse on the Global North and Global South. This absence is the Global East. The Global East is not a defined region but a relation of betweenness, geographically and geo-politically, within and between the South and North, representing peoples from countries and societies which fit imperfectly into a North/South binary. We focus on the Eastern European and Eurasian regions to demonstrate this point, concentrating specifically on its omission in punishment and society studies. Our paper makes a positive argument for the Global East concept, disrupting the assumed categories of North and South and producing a strategic essentialism to help better represent peoples thus far overlooked in southern criminology.
One transgene, two myopathies: an MTM1 ‘cross gene therapy’ for BIN1 deficiency?
Authors: Asgarian Zeinab , Siam Ala’a , Counsell John R
Published: September 2023

This scientific commentary refers to ‘MTM1 overexpression prevents and reverts BIN1-related centronuclear myopathy’ by Giraud et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awad251).
Bedside Intestinal Ultrasound Performed in an Inflammatory Bowel Disease Urgent Assessment Clinic Improves Clinical Decision-Making and Resource Utilization
Authors: St-Pierre Joëlle , Delisle Maxime , Kheirkhahrahimabadi Hengameh , Goodsall Thomas M , Bryant Robert V , Christensen Britt , Vaughan Rose , Al-Ani Aysha , Ingram Richard J M , Heatherington Joan , Carter Dan , Lu Cathy , Ma Christopher , Novak Kerri L
Published: September 2023

Background

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) require accessible, timely, and noninvasive strategies to monitor disease. The aim was to assess the integration of intestinal ultrasound (IUS) on decision-making and endoscopy utilization in a standardized care pathway.

Methods

This prospective, multicenter, international, observational cohort study included patients seen within a centralized model for IBD care was conducted during the COVID pandemic. Patients were evaluated with IUS alone or in combination with an in-clinic, unsedated sigmoidoscopy. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, and imaging data, clinical decisions, and need for urgent endoscopy, hospitalization, and surgeries were recorded.

Results

Of the 158 patients included, the majority had an established diagnosis of Crohn’s disease (n = 123, 78%), and 47% (n = 75) of patients were on biologic therapy. IUS identified active inflammation in 65% (n = 102) of patients, and strictures in 14% (n = 22). Fecal calprotectin levels correlated with inflammation detected on IUS (median of 50 μg/g [Q1–Q3: 26–107 μg/g] without inflammation and 270 μg/g [Q1–Q3: 61–556 μg/g] with inflammation; p = 0.0271). In the majority of patients, clinical assessment with IUS led to an acute change in IBD-specific medications (57%, n = 90) and avoided or delayed the need for urgent endoscopy (85%, n = 134). Four patients were referred for urgent surgical consultation.

Conclusions

Point-of-care IUS used in a flare clinic pathway is a useful strategy to improve effective IBD care delivery and to assist in therapeutic management decisions, in many cases avoiding the acute need for endoscopy.
Prevalence and severity of abdominal bloating in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Shacker Mark , Latorre-Rodríguez Andrés R , Mittal Sumeet K
Published: September 2023

Abdominal bloating (AB) is a common symptom among patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, in clinical practice, its prevalence is likely underestimated due to the lack of objective tools to measure its frequency and severity. It is associated with dissatisfaction and worse quality of life, but data on its prevalence before and after mechanical control of GERD (i.e. fundoplication, magnetic sphincter augmentation, and antireflux mucosectomy) are lacking. To assess and determine the pre- and postoperative prevalence and severity of AB among patients with GERD, we conducted a structured literature search using MeSH and free-text terms in MEDLINE (via Pubmed), EMBASE, and Taylor & Francis Online between January 1977 and October 2022. Fifteen articles reporting the prevalence or severity of AB using quality-of-life questionnaires before or after antireflux surgery (ARS) were included. Overall, a high prevalence of AB before ARS was found. A decline in the prevalence and severity of AB was documented postoperatively in most cases independent of the surgical approach. Among surgical approaches, a complete fundoplication had the highest reported postoperative AB. Overall, patients reported less severe and less frequent AB after ARS than before. The traditional belief that postoperative bloating is a sequela of ARS should be reevaluated.
A multimodality approach to a rare case of ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm with tricuspid valve involvement: a case report
Authors: Wilson Vindhya C , Jacob Anita , van der Walt Liezl M , Sasse Alexander
Published: September 2023

Background

Ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm is a rare disease entity that is potentially life-threatening if left untreated. While imaging is the mainstay of diagnosis, resultant tricuspid valve involvement may mask typical findings providing a diagnostic challenge. Disruption of the tricuspid valve during ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm with consequent tricuspid regurgitation is rare and infrequently described in the literature. Description of the utility and limitations of multimodality imaging in this scenario is equally scarce.

Case summary

We review the case of a young patient presenting with acute ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm and involvement of the tricuspid valve on a background of severe aortic regurgitation requiring multimodality imaging for diagnostic and pre-surgical assessment.

Discussion

In young patients presenting with acute decompensation and pre-existing bicuspid aortic valve regurgitation, an increased clinical suspicion of a sinus of Valsalva aneurysm rupture is imperative. Doppler and 3D transoesophageal echocardiographic assessment should be pursued to characterize abnormal flows and clarify aetiology in the context of tricuspid involvement and resultant tricuspid regurgitation. A large-volume left–right shunt in proximity to the tricuspid annulus may result in disproportionately severe tricuspid regurgitation in the absence of annular disruption due to forced systolic opening of the leaflets by shunt flow and ‘windsock’ prolapse. Multimodality imaging can be essential in these cases to adequately assess the extent of the ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm and overcome limitations of single modality imaging.
Usefulness of catheter pressure measurement using the Navvus RXi system to determine left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and aortic stenosis severity: a case report
Authors: Yashige Masaki , Zen Kan , Kataoka Eisuke , Matoba Satoaki
Published: September 2023

Background

Left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) sometimes presents with aortic stenosis (AS). Echocardiography is used to assess the diagnosis and severity of LVOTO or AS. However, LVOTO is one of the conditions that makes AS assessment difficult, and catheter pressure measurement is frequently useful in such cases.

Case summary

An 84-year-old female patient presented with New York Heart Association functional Class III dyspnoea. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed LVOTO caused by upper septal hypertrophy, mitral valve systolic anterior motion with moderate mitral regurgitation, and a highly calcified aortic valve, which suggested the possibility of severe AS. The continuous Doppler echocardiography revealed a late-systolic peaking dagger-shaped profile with a peak jet velocity of 5.6 m/s. Cardiac catheterization was performed to determine the contribution of AS or LVOTO to her symptoms. Catheter pressures were measured at the ascending aorta (using a coronary catheter) and the LV (using the Navvus RXi system). The initial mean pressure gradient between the apex of the LV, just below the aortic valve and aorta, was measured at 65 and 25 mmHg, respectively. The mean pressure gradient between the apex and the aorta decreased from 65 to 40 mmHg after a 50 mg disopyramide administration. Oral medication therapy effectively stabilized her symptom after catheterization.

Discussion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of assessing the severity of LVOTO and AS using the Navvus RXi system. Catheter pressure measurement using the Navvus RXi system is a useful method of determining the severity of LVOTO and AS.
Unintended Consequences of Central Bank Lending in Financial Crises
Authors: van der Kwaak Christiaan
Published: September 2023

I investigate the macroeconomic impact of central bank funding becoming a more attractive funding source to financial intermediaries in times of crisis. I show that the requirement to pledge collateral has a contractionary effect on private credit, everything else equal, and thereby reduces the expansionary effect that such lending otherwise has. I use an estimated New Keynesian model with financial frictions to show that the collateral effect explains the limited growth of Italian banks’ private credit in response to the European Central Bank’s three-year longer-term refinancing operations. Finally, I explore whether changes in lending policy can offset the cumulative negative effects from the collateral effect.