bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
C. Difficile Infection within 6 Months before TKA Is Associated with Increased Short-Term Complications
Authors: Sax Oliver C. , Douglas Scott J. , Chen Zhongming , Bains Sandeep S. , Remily Ethan A. , Delanois Ronald E.
Published: July 2023

A history of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) before total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may be a marker for poor patient health and could be used to identify patients with higher risks for complications after TKA. We compared the frequency of 90-day postoperative CDI, complications, readmissions, and associated risk factors in (1) patients experiencing CDIs more than 6 months before TKA, (2) patients experiencing CDIs in the 6 months before TKA, and (3) patients without a history of CDI. We identified patients who underwent primary TKAs from 2010 to 2019 and had a history of CDI before TKA (n = 7,195) using a national, all-payer database. Patients were stratified into two groups: those with CDIs > 6 months before TKA (n = 6,027) and those experiencing CDIs ≤ 6 months before TKA (n = 1,168). These patients were compared with the remaining 1.4 million patients without a history of CDI before TKA. Chi-square and unadjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to compare complication frequencies. Prior CDI during either timespan was associated with higher unadjusted odds for postoperative CDI (CDI > 6 months before TKA: OR 8.03 [95% CI 6.68–9.63]; p < 0.001; CDI ≤ 6 months before TKA: OR 59.05 [95% CI 49.66–70.21]; p < 0.001). Patients with a history of CDI before TKA were associated with higher unadjusted odds for 90-day complications and readmission compared with patients without a history of CDI before TKA. Other comorbidities and health metrics were not found to be associated with postoperative CDI (i.e., age, obesity, smoking, antibiotic use, etc.).

Conclusion CDI before TKA was associated with higher odds of postoperative CDI compared with patients without a history of CDI. CDI ≤ 6 months before TKA was associated with the highest odds for postoperative complications and readmissions. Providers should consider delaying TKA after CDI, if possible, to allow for patient recovery and eradication of infection.
2.7 Cobalt-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reactions
Authors: Schiltz P. , Gao M. , Gosmini C.
Published: July 2023

Transition-metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions have been an essential strategy for the construction of C—C bonds, including in the syntheses of pharmaceuticals and natural products, since the pioneering work of Heck, Negishi, and Suzuki, among others. Of the widely applied catalysts based on group 8–10 metals, economical cobalt salts have been shown to be advantageous as an alternative to other commonly used expensive and/or toxic catalysts. In this review, cobalt-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions of organometallic reagents, such as organomagnesium or organozinc derivatives, to achieve the formation of C—C bonds, are summarized. Furthermore, various methods for the cobalt-catalyzed reductive cross coupling of C—X/C—O electrophiles have also been reported for selective C—C bond formation, and these are also discussed.
2.8 Iron-Catalyzed C—H Functionalization
Authors: Banerjee S. , Ilies L.
Published: July 2023

The direct functionalization of an organic substrate via transition-metal-catalyzed C—H bond activation is a powerful tool for building molecular complexity. Despite the abundance, low cost, and low toxicity of iron, which make it an ideal metal for sustainable catalysis, iron-catalyzed C—H activation has been less investigated compared with catalysis based on precious metals such as palladium or iridium. In this chapter, selected examples of iron-catalyzed activation of a C—H bond to create a new C—C bond are described. Arylation, hetarylation, alkenylation, and alkylation of C(sp2)—H and C(sp3)—H bonds is discussed. Most of the substrates require a directing group, but several examples of non-directed reactions are also presented. The functionalization of a C—H bond has been achieved by using organometallic reagents, organic halides and pseudohalides, multiple bonds such as alkenes and alkynes, and arenes or hetarenes as the reaction partner.
2.14 Manganese-, Iron-, and Cobalt-Catalyzed Radical Alkene Hydrofunctionalization
Authors: van der Puyl V. , Shenvi R. A.
Published: July 2023

This review highlights select methods from the synthetic organic metal hydride hydrogen-atom transfer (MHAT) literature. Following MHAT to an alkene, carbon-centered radicals are captured to forge bonds between carbon and hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, the metal center itself, or other atoms. Isomerization is also known, proceeding via abstraction of an adjacent hydrogen atom. Oxidation or reduction of the MHAT-generated carbon-centered radical allows for coupling with two-electron nucleophiles or electrophiles in radical–polar crossover methods. Cross-coupling-type transformations have also emerged, enabled by secondary metal capture of the radical intermediate. The field is evolving from classical catalytic turnover (oxidation/hydride reduction) to other modes of reductive turnover, primarily represented by photocatalytic and electrochemical methods. Opportunities for novel modes of turnover, enantioselective synthesis, and mechanism interrogation promise to drive the MHAT field forward.
2.16 Chromium-Catalyzed Cross Coupling and C—H Functionalization
Authors: Zeng X.
Published: July 2023

The use of the earth-abundant group 6 metal chromium as a cost-effective alternative to precious metal catalysts has emerged as a useful tool in modern synthetic chemistry. Significant advances in the field of cross coupling and C—H functionalization with chromium catalysis have been achieved, providing cost-effective and selective strategies to form C—C bonds, usually under mild conditions. This chapter aims to highlight recent achievements in the arena of cross coupling and C—H functionalization that are catalyzed by chromium. It is organized based on the type of bond (chemically unactivated C—heteroatom and C—H bonds) involved in the catalytic coupling, and there is a focus on the discussion of possible mechanisms for insight into the design of robust chromium catalysts for the development of new coupling models and strategies.
Optimization of continuous particle separation in a symmetric sharp corner microchannel
Authors: Mahani Moheb Amir , Naserifar Naser
Published: July 2023

The separation of circulating tumor cells from the bloodstream with high purity plays a crucial role in the treatment of cancer. Design and fabrication of cell sorters based on numerical models can lead to optimized cell sorters in terms of throughput, purity, and size. Based on a numerical model, a symmetric sharp corner microchannel was developed and optimized in this study to achieve a more compact cell sorter with high-purity output. Sharp corners in the microchannel generate centrifugal and inertial lift forces that cause particles (7.32 and 15.5 μm) to separate. The proposed numerical model was validated using experimental data. The proposed method reduced the device size by up to 19% while retaining a purity level of 95.45%. These results will have an impact on designing compact cell sorters with high purity output for implantable applications.
A visible light-sensitive argentous oxide/calcium aluminate nanocomposite photocatalyst
Authors: Sun Zizhan , Cong Qianmin , Wang Xiaoyu , Cui Jiayin , Cai Zhengyu , Fan Chuangang , Pei Lizhai
Published: July 2023

A photo-deposition method was developed to synthesise argentous oxide/calcium aluminate nanocomposites (Ag2O-CAONCS) with orthorhombic Ca5Al6O14 and cubic Ag2O phases. Micro-morphology, micro-structure, optical, and visible-light catalytic properties were investigated via different techniques. Ag2O enhances visible-light absorption performance and decreases the band gap of the Ag2O-CAONCS. About 20 mL crystal violet (CV) dye (10 mgL–1) is totally degraded using 20 mg Ag2O-CAONCS under sunlight irradiation for 20 min. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of the Ag2O-CAONCS towards CV under sunlight irradiation is ascribed to the reduction of the band gap, improvement in visible-light absorption and inhibitation role of carriers recombination by Ag2O. The high, stable visible-light catalytic activity makes Ag2O-CAONCS promising photocatalysts for removing organic pollutants.
The Neutron Star to Black Hole Mass Gap in the Frame of the Jittering Jets Explosion Mechanism (JJEM)
Authors: Soker Noam
Published: July 2023

I build a toy model in the frame of the jittering jets explosion mechanism (JJEM) of core collapse supernovae that incorporates both the stochastically varying angular momentum component of the material that the newly born neutron star (NS) accretes and the constant angular momentum component, and show that the JJEM can account for the ≃2.5–5M
⊙ mass gap between NSs and black holes (BHs). The random component of the angular momentum results from pre-collapse core convection fluctuations that are amplified by post-collapse instabilities. The fixed angular momentum component results from pre-collapse core rotation. For slowly rotating pre-collapse cores the stochastic angular momentum fluctuations form intermittent accretion disks (or belts) around the NS with varying angular momentum axes in all directions. The intermittent accretion disk/belt launches jets in all directions that expel the core material in all directions early on, hence leaving an NS remnant. Rapidly rotating pre-collapse cores form an accretion disk with angular momentum axis that is about the same as the pre-collapse core rotation. The NS launches jets along this axis and hence the jets avoid the equatorial plane region. Inflowing core material continues to feed the central object from the equatorial plane increasing the NS mass to form a BH. The narrow transition from slow to rapid pre-collapse core rotation, i.e., from an efficient to inefficient jet feedback mechanism, accounts for the sparsely populated mass gap.
Understanding the heating mechanism of the solar active region atmosphere in chromosphere
Authors: Yalim Mehmet Sarp , Zank Gary , Beck Christian , Choudhary Debi Prasad , Prasad Avijeet , Hu Qiang , Frisse Makayla
Published: July 2023

Understanding the mechanisms underlying the heating of the solar atmosphere is a fundamental problem in solar physics. In this paper, we present an overview of our research on understanding the heating mechanism of the solar active region atmosphere in chromosphere. We investigate Joule heating due to the dissipation of currents perpendicular to the magnetic field by the Cowling resistivity using a data-constrained analysis based on observational and tabulated theoretical/semi-empirical solar atmosphere model data. As target region, we focus on a sunspot umbral light bridge where we find that this heating mechanism plays an important role and is also highly dynamic.
Effect of Compression Garments on the Ventilatory Function After Abdominoplasty
Authors: Kosloski Fabiane Regina , Barbosa Marcus Vinicius Jardini , Rodrigues Maria Amélia , Martins Maria Roberta Cardoso , Ferreira Lydia Masako , Nahas Fábio Xerfan
Published: July 2023

Background

The use of compression garments in the postoperative period of abdominoplasty seems to be a consensus, but the incidents of complications arising from this have been described, related to an increase in intraabdominal pressure and reduction of the femoral vein blood flow that may facilitate thromboembolic events. There are no studies that have evaluated the isolated effect of postoperative compression garments on respiratory function.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of compression garments on respiratory function after abdominoplasty.

Methods

Thirty-four female patients who underwent standard abdominoplasty were divided into 2 groups, the garment group (n = 18) and the no garment group (n = 16). Respiratory function assessment (with spirometry and manovacuometry) was performed in the preoperative and postoperative periods.

Results

Forced vital capacity assessment revealed a greater ventilatory restriction in the garment group. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) showed differences between the evaluation time points in the garment group; the intergroup comparisons showed that the no garment group had a lower FEV1. Slow vital capacity was evaluated with no significant differences found on both intergroup comparisons. The inspiratory capacity was reduced in the garment group, representing ventilatory restriction. Measurements of the maximum inspiratory pressure showed no significant differences between the groups. The maximum expiratory pressure showed significantly lower values on postoperative day 7 in the garment group.

Conclusions

The use of compression garments after abdominoplasty impairs ventilatory function. Not wearing this type of garment can improve ventilation, decreasing the risk of pulmonary complications.

Level of Evidence: 3
Deep Back Liposuction: Ultrasound-Guided Deep Fat Liposuction of the Subiliac Crest
Authors: Durán Vega Héctor César , Manzaneda Raul , Flores Emmanuel , Manfrim Carlos , Morelli Humberto
Published: July 2023

In the past 5 years, aesthetic surgery of the buttock has changed a lot with the use of technologies like imaging ultrasound to get safer and more beautiful results. These techniques are not only used to make a safer fat infiltration in the buttock, but also for modeling it. The aim of this study was to describe ultrasound-guided subiliac crest deep fat liposuction for contouring the buttock-back region. This area is often overlooked in gluteal frame management because of the depth at which it is located. Healthy patients were chosen for whom this deep back ultrasound technique was performed to improve the gluteal frame. The technique involved making a small incision in the iliac crest of the ilium, followed by identification of the area of deep posterior fat below the iliac crest under ultrasonographic control. A cannula was positioned to deliver static tumescent infiltration and liposuction was performed. This study included 16 female patients aged 20 to 45 years old who underwent this procedure. The area was infiltrated with 150 to 200 mL of tumescent solution per side, and 175 to 200 mL of fat was obtained. The depth of the study area varied but was observed to be generally located between 3 and 5 cm from the skin. This study indicates that this technique is safe and effective in achieving aspiration of the subiliac crest deep fat, which enhances the frame for buttock-back contouring. Ultrasound was indispensable for locating the fat and infiltrating the area for subsequent liposuction.

See the abstract translated into Hindi, Portuguese, Korean, German, Italian, Arabic, Chinese, and Taiwanese online here: https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjad236.

Level of Evidence: 4
AtlasXplore: a web platform for visualizing and sharing spatial epigenome data
Authors: Barnett Joshua , Sotudeh Noori , Rao Poorvi , Silverman Jonah , Jafar Tamara , Wang Liya
Published: July 2023

Motivation

In recent years, a growing number of spatial epigenome datasets have been generated, presenting rich opportunities for studying the regulation mechanisms in solid tissue sections. However, visual exploration of these datasets requires extensive computational processing of raw data, presenting a challenge for researchers without advanced computational skills to fully explore and analyze such datasets.

Results

Here, we introduce AtlasXplore, a web-based platform that enables scientists to interactively navigate a growing collection of spatial epigenome data using an expanding set of tools.

Availability and implementation

https://web.atlasxomics.com
Prevalence of pericardial effusion in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Jost Johanna Sophia , Kaireit Till Frederik , Auber Bernd , Beller Johannes , Schmidt-Ott Kai Martin , Schmitt Roland , Wulfmeyer Vera Christine
Published: July 2023

Background

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) has numerous extrarenal manifestations. Pericardial effusion (PE) may be an underrecognized complication with a reported prevalence of up to 35%. Our study is the first to systematically evaluate the prevalence of PE and associated risk factors in an ADPKD cohort outside the USA.

Methods

Clinically stable ADPKD patients from a specialized outpatient clinic were evaluated retrospectively. Magnetic resonance tomography and computed tomography scans were analysed regarding the presence of PE (≥4 mm). Imaging results were linked to clinical characteristics.

Results

Of 286 ADPKD patients, 208 had computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging suitable for evaluation of PE. In this group we detected PE in 17 patients (8.2%). The overall prevalence of PE was 6.3%, with more females being affected (prevalence of PE was 7.8% in females and 3.8% in males). The PE mean size was 6.8 ± 3.3 mm. The prevalence of autoimmune diseases was higher in the patients with PE (11.8% versus 2.1%, P = .022), while the presence and size of PE was not associated with signs of rapid progressive disease, ADPKD genotype, patient age, body mass index and other clinical parameters. Exploratory investigation of individual characteristics of PE patients by regression tree analysis suggested renal functional impairment, sex and proteinuria as candidate variables.

Conclusions

PE prevalence in our cohort was lower than previously reported and showed a clear female preponderance. Our data suggest that patients with PEs >10 mm deserve further attention, as they may have additional non-ADPKD-related pathologies.
Reference Interval Harmonization: Harnessing the Power of Big Data Analytics to Derive Common Reference Intervals across Populations and Testing Platforms
Authors: Bohn Mary Kathryn , Bailey Dana , Balion Cynthia , Cembrowski George , Collier Christine , De Guire Vincent , Higgins Victoria , Jung Benjamin , Ali Zahraa Mohammed , Seccombe David , Taher Jennifer , Tsui Albert K Y , Venner Allison , Adeli Khosrow
Published: July 2023

Background

Harmonization in laboratory medicine is essential for consistent and accurate clinical decision-making. There is significant and unwarranted variation in reference intervals (RIs) used by laboratories for assays with established analytical traceability. The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists (CSCC) Working Group on Reference Interval Harmonization (hRI-WG) aims to establish harmonized RIs (hRIs) for laboratory tests and support implementation.

Methods

Harnessing the power of big data, laboratory results were collected across populations and testing platforms to derive common adult RIs for 16 biochemical markers. A novel comprehensive approach was established, including: (a) analysis of big data from community laboratories across Canada; (b) statistical evaluation of age, sex, and analytical differences; (c) derivation of hRIs using the refineR method; and (d) verification of proposed hRIs across 9 laboratories with different instrumentation using serum and plasma samples collected from healthy Canadian adults.

Results

Harmonized RIs were calculated for all assays using the refineR method, except free thyroxine. Derived hRIs met proposed verification criterion across 9 laboratories and 5 manufacturers for alkaline phosphatase, albumin (bromocresol green), chloride, lactate dehydrogenase, magnesium, phosphate, potassium (serum), and total protein (serum). Further investigation is needed for some analytes due to failure to meet verification criteria in one or more laboratories (albumin [bromocresol purple], calcium, total carbon dioxide, total bilirubin, and sodium) or concern regarding excessively wide hRIs (alanine aminotransferase, creatinine, and thyroid stimulating hormone).

Conclusions

We report a novel data-driven approach for RI harmonization. Findings support feasibility of RI harmonization for several analytes; however, some presented challenges, highlighting limitations that need to be considered in harmonization and big data analytics.
Acoustic complexity of pup isolation calls in Mongolian hamsters: 3-frequency phenomena and chaos
Authors: Rutovskaya Marina V , Volodin Ilya A , Feoktistova Natalia Y , Surov Alexey V , Gureeva Anna V , Volodina Elena V
Published: July 2023

Studying pup isolation calls of wild rodents provides background for developing new early-life animal models for biomedical research and drug testing. This study discovered a highly complex acoustic phenotype of pup isolation calls in 4–5-day-old Mongolian hamsters Allocricetulus curtatus. We analyzed the acoustic structure of 5,010 isolation calls emitted in the broad range of frequencies (sonic, below 20 kHz, and ultrasonic, from 20 to 128 kHz) by 23 pups during 2-min isolation test trials, 1 trial per pup. In addition, we measured 5 body size parameters and the body weight of each pup. The calls could contain up to 3 independent fundamental frequencies in their spectra, the low (f0), the medium (g0), and the high (h0), or purely consisted of chaos in which the fundamental frequency could not be tracked. By presence/absence of the 3 fundamental frequencies or their combinations and chaos, we classified calls into 6 distinctive categories (low-frequency [LF]-f0, LF-chaos, high-frequency [HF]-g0, HF-h0, HF-g0 + h0, and HF-chaos) and estimated the relative abundance of calls in each category. Between categories, we compared acoustic parameters and estimated their relationship with pup body size index. We discuss the results of this study with data on the acoustics of pup isolation calls reported for other species of rodents. We conclude that such high complexity of Mongolian hamster pup isolation calls is unusual for rodents. Decreased acoustic complexity serves as a good indicator of autism spectrum disorders in knockout mouse models, which makes knockout hamster models prospective new wild animal model of neurodevelopmental disorders.
The added value of abnormal regional myocardial function for risk prediction in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kirkels Feddo P , Rootwelt-Norberg Christine , Bosman Laurens P , Aabel Eivind W , Muller Steven A , Castrini Anna I , Taha Karim , van Osta Nick , Lie Øyvind H , Asselbergs Folkert W , Lumens Joost , te Riele Anneline S J M , Hasselberg Nina E , Cramer Maarten J , Haugaa Kristina H , Teske Arco J
Published: July 2023

Aims

A risk calculator for individualized prediction of first-time sustained ventricular arrhythmia (VA) in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) patients has recently been developed and validated (www.ARVCrisk.com). This study aimed to investigate whether regional functional abnormalities, measured by echocardiographic deformation imaging, can provide additional prognostic value.

Methods and results

From two referral centres, 150 consecutive patients with a definite ARVC diagnosis, no prior sustained VA, and an echocardiogram suitable for deformation analysis were included (aged 41 ± 17 years, 50% female). During a median follow-up of 6.3 (interquartile range 3.1–9.8) years, 37 (25%) experienced a first-time sustained VA. All tested left and right ventricular (LV and RV) deformation parameters were univariate predictors for first-time VA. While LV function did not add predictive value in multivariate analysis, two RV deformation parameters did; RV free wall longitudinal strain and regional RV deformation patterns remained independent predictors after adjusting for the calculator-predicted risk [hazard ratio 1.07 (95% CI 1.02–1.11); P = 0.004 and 4.45 (95% CI 1.07–18.57); P = 0.040, respectively] and improved its discriminative value (from C-statistic 0.78 to 0.82 in both; Akaike information criterion change > 2). Importantly, all patients who experienced VA within 5 years from the echocardiographic assessment had abnormal regional RV deformation patterns at baseline.

Conclusions

This study showed that regional functional abnormalities measured by echocardiographic deformation imaging can further refine personalized arrhythmic risk prediction when added to the ARVC risk calculator. The excellent negative predictive value of normal RV deformation could support clinicians considering the timing of implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation in patients with intermediate arrhythmic risk.
Genetics of evolved load resistance in the skeletons of unusually large mice from Gough Island
Authors: Payseur Bret A , Anderson Sara , James Roy T , Parmenter Michelle D , Gray Melissa M , Vinyard Christopher J
Published: July 2023

A primary function of the skeleton is to resist the loads imparted by body weight. Genetic analyses have identified genomic regions that contribute to differences in skeletal load resistance between laboratory strains of mice, but these studies are usually restricted to 1 or 2 bones and leave open the question of how load resistance evolves in natural populations. To address these challenges, we examined the genetics of bone structure using the largest wild house mice on record, which live on Gough Island (GI). We measured structural traits connected to load resistance in the femur, tibia, scapula, humerus, radius, ulna, and mandible of GI mice, a smaller-bodied reference strain from the mainland, and 760 of their F2s. GI mice have bone geometries indicative of greater load resistance abilities but show no increase in bone mineral density compared to the mainland strain. Across traits and bones, we identified a total of 153 quantitative trait loci (QTL) that span all but one of the autosomes. The breadth of QTL detection ranges from a single bone to all 7 bones. Additive effects of QTL are modest. QTL for bone structure show limited overlap with QTL for bone length and width and QTL for body weight mapped in the same cross, suggesting a distinct genetic architecture for load resistance. Our findings provide a rare genetic portrait of the evolution of load resistance in a natural population with extreme body size.
Houpo paiqi mixture promotes intestinal motility in constipated rats by modulating gut microbiota and activating 5-HT-cAMP-PKA signal pathway
Authors: Wang Ruixin , Lu Xiaofang , Zhao Luqing , Zhang Weixi , Zhang Shengsheng
Published: July 2023

Aims

Constipation is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder, which needs more effective treatment approaches. Houpo Paiqi Mixture (HPPQM) is a type of Chinese patent medicine developed from a classical formula that has been widely applied to the treatment of intestinal motility disorder. Here we aim to assess the effectiveness of HPPQM in the treatment of constipation in rat models and its potential mechanism.

Methods and Results

UPLC-MS/MS was performed to investigate the chemical component of HPPQM. Rats were randomly divided into normal control, constipation model (CM), HPPQM (low, middle and high dose) and mosapride groups. Loperamide 8 mg/kg was given orally to induce CM. The small intestine motility, colonic contraction, rectum propulsion, and histological feature of the colon were significantly improved in HPPQM group, compared with CM group (P < 0.05). Results of 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that HPPQM treatment strikingly restructured intestinal microbiota in constipated rats by increasing the relative abundances of Bacteroides and Akkermansia and decreasing the relative abundances of Prevotella and Lactobacillus. The levels of GPR43, 5-HT, 5-HT4R, cAMP, PKA were decreased while SERT was increased in constipated rats (P < 0.05), which could be restored to normal levels by treatment with HPPQM (P < 0.05). Differences in amplitude between experimental CLSMs (with HPPQM added) and control CLSMs were discovered, starting at the concentration of 40 nL/mL (P < 0.05). It was found that GLPG0974 and GR113808 could significantly reduce this reactivity (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

HPPQM manifested a curative effect in constipated rats by promoting intestinal motility. The underlying mechanisms might be related to modulating gut microbiota and activating 5-HT-cAMP-PKA signal pathway.
Is the patient speaking or the nurse? Automatic speaker type identification in patient–nurse audio recordings
Authors: Zolnoori Maryam , Vergez Sasha , Sridharan Sridevi , Zolnour Ali , Bowles Kathryn , Kostic Zoran , Topaz Maxim
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Patient–clinician communication provides valuable explicit and implicit information that may indicate adverse medical conditions and outcomes. However, practical and analytical approaches for audio-recording and analyzing this data stream remain underexplored. This study aimed to 1) analyze patients’ and nurses’ speech in audio-recorded verbal communication, and 2) develop machine learning (ML) classifiers to effectively differentiate between patient and nurse language.

Materials and Methods

Pilot studies were conducted at VNS Health, the largest not-for-profit home healthcare agency in the United States, to optimize audio-recording patient–nurse interactions. We recorded and transcribed 46 interactions, resulting in 3494 “utterances” that were annotated to identify the speaker. We employed natural language processing techniques to generate linguistic features and built various ML classifiers to distinguish between patient and nurse language at both individual and encounter levels.

Results

A support vector machine classifier trained on selected linguistic features from term frequency-inverse document frequency, Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count, Word2Vec, and Medical Concepts in the Unified Medical Language System achieved the highest performance with an AUC-ROC = 99.01 ± 1.97 and an F1-score = 96.82 ± 4.1. The analysis revealed patients’ tendency to use informal language and keywords related to “religion,” “home,” and “money,” while nurses utilized more complex sentences focusing on health-related matters and medical issues and were more likely to ask questions.

Conclusion

The methods and analytical approach we developed to differentiate patient and nurse language is an important precursor for downstream tasks that aim to analyze patient speech to identify patients at risk of disease and negative health outcomes.
Characterization and fitness cost of bifenthrin resistance in Rhopalosiphum padi (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Liu Lang , Wang Suji , Zuo Junfeng , Zhang Xiaohe , Peng Xiong , Wang Kang , Chen Maohua
Published: July 2023

Rhopalosiphum padi is an important global wheat pest. The pyrethroid insecticide bifenthrin is widely used in the control R. padi. We explored the resistance potential, cross-resistance, adaptive costs, and resistance mechanism of R. padi to bifenthrin using a bifenthrin-resistant strain (Rp-BIF) established in laboratory. The Rp-BIF strain developed extremely high resistance against bifenthrin (1033.036-fold). Cross-resistance analyses showed that the Rp-BIF strain had an extremely high level of cross-resistance to deltamethrin (974.483-fold), moderate levels of cross-resistance to chlorfenapyr (34.051-fold), isoprocarb (27.415-fold), imidacloprid (14.819-fold), and thiamethoxam (11.228-fold), whereas negative cross-resistance was observed to chlorpyrifos (0.379-fold). The enzymatic activity results suggested that P450 played an important role in bifenthrin resistance. A super-kdr mutation (M918L) of voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) was found in the bifenthrin-resistant individuals. When compared with the susceptible strain (Rp-SS), the Rp-BIF strain was significantly inferior in multiple life table parameters, exhibiting a relative fitness of 0.69. Our toxicological and biochemical studies indicated that multiple mechanisms of resistance might be involved in the resistance trait. Our results provide insight into the bifenthrin resistance of R. padi and can contribute to improve management of bifenthrin-resistant R. padi in the field.
Making it Work: Closing the Inclusion Gap for Persons with Disabilities in Humanitarian Crises
Authors: Funke Carolin
Published: July 2023

Disability inclusion has been firmly established as a human rights issue in humanitarian action. Numerous stakeholders have entered into commitments and designed policies to make their services inclusive and accessible for persons with disabilities. In practice, however, persons with disabilities are still excluded from participating in humanitarian action and cannot access the services they need. Drawing on evidence from the Rohingya refugee response in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh and the civil war in South Sudan, this policy and practice note shows that humanitarians often lack the knowledge and confidence to make their services inclusive for persons with different types of impairments. To anchor disability inclusion in all programmes and operations, it should be treated as a strategic issue. It requires sustainable and reliable funding, capacity development at the individual, organizational and strategic level of the humanitarian response, better coordination, robust and reliable data collection based on quantitative and qualitative assessments, and meaningful participation with organizations of persons with disabilities that represent the diversity of persons with disabilities.
Reasons patients cite to their health-care professional for not initiating or completing human papillomavirus vaccination
Authors: Chido-Amajuoyi Onyema Greg , Osaghae Ikponmwosa , Shete Sanjay
Published: July 2023

Background

Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) is critical to the prevention of HPV-associated cancers. This study aimed to describe the reasons patients cited for not initiating or completing the HPV vaccination series, as reported by health-care professionals.

Methods

Study data were obtained from a University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center population-based cross-sectional survey of health-care professionals practicing in Texas. Prevalence estimates of reasons cited for not initiating or completing HPV vaccination were estimated by patient population (parents of children and adult patients).

Results

The study included 973 primary care clinicians, of whom 45.53% were physicians and 54.47% were midlevel care professionals. For parents who did not initiate HPV vaccination for their child, the most commonly cited reasons were the belief that the vaccine was not needed (52.54%, 95% CI = 48.90% to 56.15%), that the child was not sexually active (52.54%, 95% CI = 48.90% to 56.15%), and safety concerns/side effects (47.05%, 95% CI = 43.44% to 50.69%). Among age-eligible adults who did not initiate HPV vaccination, lack of knowledge and awareness was the most commonly cited reason (30.52%, 95% CI = 27.71% to 33.50%). For noncompletion of the HPV vaccine series, parents most commonly cited competing priorities (41.29%, 95% CI = 37.76% to 44.91%), followed by adverse reactions after the first dose (16.05%, 95% CI = 13.56% to 18.90%). Similarly, for noncompletion of the HPV vaccine series among adults, competing priorities was the most cited reason (31.04%, 95% CI = 28.20% to 34.02%).

Conclusion

These findings highlight the importance of addressing misconceptions and improving education about HPV vaccination to increase vaccination uptake rates and prevent HPV-related cancers.
A coupled finite element scheme to study the grinding force and warpage of silicon wafers during the backside grinding process
Authors: Wu Mei-Ling , Wong Wei-Jhih , Lan Jia-Shen
Published: July 2023

In this study, a finite element model is developed to analyse the grinding force and warpage of silicon wafers during the backside grinding process. Due to the decreasing size of consumer electronic devices, such as smartphones, notebooks and portable electronics, it is necessary to address the issues pertaining to grinding silicon wafers. The backside grinding process is a mature technology that is widely used for silicon wafers. However, for ultrathin silicon wafers, warpage is a critical issue. Wafer warpage is induced by the residual stress and surface damage that arises during the backside grinding process. To analyse the grinding stress on silicon wafers during the backside grinding process, a finite element model is established by setting dynamic loads and contact conditions. An explicit dynamic model is used to simulate the relationship between the grinding wheel and the silicon wafer. A static model is incorporated with the explicit dynamic model to predict wafer warpage. The simulation results for the residual stress are in good agreement with the experimental results. The results indicate that the wheel rotational speed, wafer rotational speed and feed rate effectively control wafer warpage. Hence, the warpage of ultrathin silicon wafers can be decreased by adjusting the manufacturing process parameters. Furthermore, the developed simulation model can also be used to analyse warpage in fan-out wafers during the backside grinding process.
Instant Volume Microscopy of Organoids with SOLIS
Authors: Ströhl Florian
Published: July 2023

Advancements in microscopy techniques have revolutionized our ability to explore the intricacies of biological systems, with engineered human heart tissue (EHT) being a particularly challenging target. In this article, we will provide an in-depth look at the award-winning SOLIS technique (scanned oblique light-sheet instant-volume sectioning), a new twist on multifocus fluorescence microscopy. Through its unique capabilities, SOLIS offers a new approach to organoid and tissue imaging, providing unprecedented insights into the cellular architecture of these complex artificial samples. By being able to record optically sectioned volumes during single-camera exposures, SOLIS demonstrates remarkable advantages over traditional multifocus microscopy, underscoring its potential to transform our understanding of developmental biology, disease mechanisms, and potential therapeutic interventions.
Ultra diffuse galaxies in the Hydra I cluster from the LEWISProject: Phase-Space distribution and globular cluster richness
Authors: Forbes Duncan A , Gannon Jonah , Iodice Enrichetta , Hilker Michael , Doll Goran , Buttitta Chiara , Marca Antonio La , Arnaboldi Magda , Cantiello Michele , D’Ago G , Falcon Barroso Jesus , Greggio Laura , Gullieuszik Marco , Hartke Johanna , Mieske Steffen , Mirabile Marco , Rampazzo Roberto , Rejkuba Marina , Spavone Marilena , Spiniello Chiara , Capasso Giulio
Published: July 2023

Although ultra diffuse galaxies (UDGs) are found in large numbers in clusters of galaxies, the role of the cluster environment in shaping their low surface brightness and large sizes is still uncertain. Here, we examine a sample of UDGs in the Hydra I cluster (D = 51 Mpc) with new radial velocities obtained as part of the LEWIS (Looking into the faintest with MUSE) project using VLT/MUSE data. Using a phase-space, or infall diagnostic, diagram we compare the UDGs to other known galaxies in the Hydra I cluster and to UDGs in other clusters. The UDGs, along with the bulk of regular Hydra I galaxies, have low relative velocities and are located near the cluster core, and thus consistent with very early infall into the cluster. Combining with literature data, we do not find the expected trend of GC-rich UDGs associated with earlier infall times. This result suggests that quenching mechanisms other than cluster infall should be further considered, e.g. quenching by strong feedback or in cosmic sheets and filaments. Tidal stripping of GCs in the cluster environment also warrants further modelling.
The evolution of strictly monofunctional naphthoquinol C-methyltransferases is vital in cyanobacteria and plastids
Authors: Stutts Lauren , Latimer Scott , Batyrshina Zhaniya , Dickinson Gabriella , Alborn Hans , Block Anna K , Basset Gilles J
Published: July 2023

Prenylated quinones are membrane-associated metabolites that serve as vital electron carriers for respiration and photosynthesis. The UbiE (EC 2.1.1.201)/MenG (EC 2.1.1.163) C-methyltransferases catalyze pivotal ring methylations in the biosynthetic pathways of many of these quinones. In a puzzling evolutionary pattern, prokaryotic and eukaryotic UbiE/MenG homologs segregate into 2 clades. Clade 1 members occur universally in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, excluding cyanobacteria, and include mitochondrial COQ5 enzymes required for ubiquinone biosynthesis; Clade 2 members are specific to cyanobacteria and plastids. Functional complementation of an Escherichia coli ubiE/menG mutant indicated that Clade 1 members display activity with both demethylbenzoquinols and demethylnaphthoquinols, independently of the quinone profile of their original taxa, while Clade 2 members have evolved strict substrate specificity for demethylnaphthoquinols. Expression of the gene-encoding bifunctional Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) COQ5 in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis or its retargeting to Arabidopsis plastids resulted in synthesis of a methylated variant of plastoquinone-9 that does not occur in nature. Accumulation of methylplastoquinone-9 was acutely cytotoxic, leading to the emergence of suppressor mutations in Synechocystis and seedling lethality in Arabidopsis. These data demonstrate that in cyanobacteria and plastids, co-occurrence of phylloquinone and plastoquinone-9 has driven the evolution of monofunctional demethylnaphthoquinol methyltransferases and explains why plants cannot capture the intrinsic bifunctionality of UbiE/MenG to simultaneously synthesize their respiratory and photosynthetic quinones.
Resolving the Delusion Paradox
Authors: Petrovic Predrag , Sterzer Philipp
Published: July 2023

Background and Hypothesis

The neurocomputational framework of predictive processing (PP) provides a promising approach to explaining delusions, a key symptom of psychotic disorders. According to PP, the brain makes inferences about the world by weighing prior beliefs against the available sensory data. Mismatches between prior beliefs and sensory data result in prediction errors that may update the brain’s model of the world. Psychosis has been associated with reduced weighting of priors relative to the sensory data. However, delusional beliefs are highly resistant to change, suggesting increased rather than decreased weighting of priors. We propose that this “delusion paradox” can be resolved within a hierarchical PP model: Reduced weighting of prior beliefs at low hierarchical levels may be compensated by an increased influence of higher-order beliefs represented at high hierarchical levels, including delusional beliefs. This may sculpt perceptual processing into conformity with delusions and foster their resistance to contradictory evidence.

Study Design

We review several lines of experimental evidence on low- and high-level processes, and their neurocognitive underpinnings in delusion-related phenotypes and link them to predicted processing.

Study Results

The reviewed evidence supports the notion of decreased weighting of low-level priors and increased weighting of high-level priors, in both delusional and delusion-prone individuals. Moreover, we highlight the role of prefrontal cortex as a neural basis for the increased weighting of high-level prior beliefs and discuss possible clinical implications of the proposed hierarchical predictive-processing model.

Conclusions

Our review suggests the delusion paradox can be resolved within a hierarchical PP model.
Use of NovoSorb Biodegradable Temporizing Matrix in the Management of Complex Scalp Defects
Authors: Shariatmadari Isla , Kiely John , Kelemen Noemi
Published: July 2023

Dermal substitutes have emerged as a potential option in complex wound management. PolyNovo NovoSorb Biodegradable Temporizing Matrix has shown promise in managing partial and full-thickness wounds. We discuss here the successful use of this product in the management of a scalp defect complicated by exposed bone, following wide local excision of a desmoplastic melanoma of the scalp.
Surgical Technique Preserving the Interdigital Web for Polydactyly of the Foot
Authors: Yoshida Eriko , Hirota Yuka , Kino Hiromi , Fujiwara Kurumi , Ishimoto Yuki , Ueda Koichi
Published: July 2023

We devised a new method to transfer the web as a local flap in polydactyly. Our technique aims to preserve the web space, which is indicated for polydactyly to remove the interposed toe at the metatarsal bone level. The interdigital web flap is created on one lateral side of the toe to be removed. The extra toe and metatarsal bone are removed after elevating the flap. The flap is then sutured onto the side of the remaining toe.
Functional Flow-through Vascularized Lymph Node Flap with Two End-to-Side Arterial Anastomoses: A Technical Report
Authors: Mella-Catinchi Juan , Finkelstein Emily R. , Xu Kyle Y.
Published: July 2023

Vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) is a reliable treatment for patients with chronic lymphedema. Capillary networks in VLNT are less robust than those in traditional free tissue transfers, possibly contributing to venous congestion when a single arterial and venous anastomosis is performed. This technical report describes a novel operative technique and associated advantages to a functional flow-through VLNT with two end-to-side arterial anastomoses. Six consecutive patients with upper or lower extremity lymphedema received buried supraclavicular or submental VLNT with two end-to-side arterial anastomoses and at least one venous anastomosis. Recipient arteries in the anastomoses were the brachial artery for patients with upper extremity lymphedema (n = 4), and the posterior tibial vasculature in patients with lower extremity lymphedema (n = 2). Five patients simultaneously underwent lymphovenous bypass. Mean patient follow-up was 14 months. Average preoperative Lymphedema Life Impact Score and L-DEX (bioimpedance spectroscopy measurement) were 25 points and 31.4 units, with a mean greatest decrease of 20 points and 9.4 units postoperatively (n = 5). The loop configuration created by flow-through VLNT with two end-to-side arterial anastomoses may reduce pressure gradients within the flap by limiting arterial inflow and thus, mitigate the risk of venous hypertension. Additional benefits of this approach include elimination of mismatch caliber discrepancies often appreciated in end-to-end arterial anastomosis between the lymph node flap and the recipient artery, and preservation of the recipient artery anatomy.
“I felt uncertain about my whole future”—a qualitative investigation of people's experiences of navigating uncertainty when seeking care for their low back pain
Authors: Costa Nathalia , Butler Prudence , Dillon Miriam , Mescouto Karime , Olson Rebecca , Forbes Roma , Setchell Jenny
Published: July 2023

Uncertainty pervades low back pain (LBP). This study aimed to explore individuals' experiences of navigating uncertainty when seeking care for their LBP, with a view to better understanding the contexts in which they experience uncertainty and gaining insight into how uncertainty may be better navigated during clinical encounters. We conducted 15 semistructured interviews with people who have experienced LBP. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Analysis produced 4 themes. To reflect the unsettled nature of participants' discussions of navigating uncertainty, themes are framed as questions: (1) What will happen over time?; (2) Can clinicians help me? Are they willing to?; (3) What are clinicians talking about?; and (4) Am I being taken seriously? Participants also discussed how clinicians could better navigate these uncertainties. Suggestions included making time to (actively) listen to, and acknowledge, patients' concerns; asking open-ended questions; being honest about uncertainty; creating management plans and returning to them; challenging assumptions; remaining curious about patients' context; and providing guidance on how to manage LBP rather than simply giving certainty that symptoms will worsen, lessen, or continue. These findings indicate that many of the uncertainties individuals with LBP experience are intertwined with relational aspects of their interactions with clinicians. Clinicians therefore may need to consider these broader and relational aspects of care when navigating uncertainty with people who experience LBP, bringing attention to the importance of drawing from knowledge produced outside of the usual hierarchy of evidence (eg, systematic reviews and randomised controlled trials).