bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing role of counterincision for high submuscular penile prosthesis reservoir placement
Authors: VanDyke Maia E , Kavoussi Mehraban , Langford Brian T , Badkhshan Shervin , Nealon Samantha W , Franzen Bryce P , Sanders Sarah C , Morey Allen F
Published: January 2023

Background

Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) reservoir placement into the high submuscular (HSM) space is safe and well tolerated. Recent studies have proposed that reservoirs placed via an abdominal counterincision (CI) may offer more precise and durable positioning as compared with a transinguinal (TI) approach.

Aim

Herein we compare the CI-HSM and TI-HSM techniques with respect to operative time, pain control, and postoperative complications.

Methods

We reviewed our penile prosthesis database at a large single-surgeon tertiary referral center from 2014 to 2021 to compare those who underwent virgin reservoir placement via the CI-HSM technique vs the TI-HSM technique. Statistical analysis was performed with the Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables and the chi-square test and Fisher exact test for discrete variables.

Outcomes

Operative time, postoperative complications, morphine milligram equivalents prescribed, and postoperative correspondence were compared between patients undergoing the CI-HSM and TI-HSM techniques.

Results

Among 456 virgin IPP implants, the CI-HSM technique was used in 34 cases (7.5%) and the TI-HSM technique in 422 cases (92.5%). Of these 456 cases, 92 (20.2%) were combined with ancillary procedures such as artificial urinary sphincter, urethral sling, or penile plication (6/34, CI; 86/422, TI). Cases employing the CI-HSM technique had a 19.9% greater median operative time: 81.5 minutes (IQR, 69.3-106.5) vs 68 minutes (IQR, 57.8-80.3; P < .01). A similar proportion of patients in the CI-HSM group (2/34, 5.9%) were treated for infection as in the TI-HSM group (17/422, 4.0%; P = .64). Reservoir herniation was seen in 12 patients in the TI-HSM group (2.8%) and in none of the CI-HSM group, but this did not reach significance (P > .99). No differences were identified between patients in the TI-HSM and CI-HSM groups with regard to postoperative morphine milligram equivalents prescribed, narcotic medication refills, or postoperative correspondence.

Clinical Implications

CI-HSM reservoir placement was associated with similar surgical outcomes to TI-HSM without increased infection risk or need for narcotic pain management.

Strengths and Limitations

Although this study is a large contemporary series addressing a clinically important subject, it is limited by its retrospective preliminary nature and nonrandomized unmatched design. Patient pain regimens were assessed via discharge prescriptions, although data regarding narcotic consumption were not available in the medical record.

Conclusions

IPP reservoir placement via the CI-HSM technique is safe and well tolerated. Increased operative time of the CI-HSM technique as compared with the TI-HSM technique is clinically negligible given its potential safety benefits of direct visualization of reservoir placement.
QUIJOTE scientific results – V. The microwave intensity and polarization spectra of the Galactic regions W49, W51 and IC443
Authors: Tramonte D , Génova-Santos R T , Rubiño-Martín J A , Vielva P , Poidevin F , López-Caraballo C H , Peel M W , Ashdown M , Artal E , Barreiro R B , Casas F J , de la Hoz E , Fernández-Torreiro M , Guidi F , Herranz D , Hoyland R J , Lasenby A N , Martinez-Gonzalez E , Piccirillo L , Rebolo R , Ruiz-Granados B , Vansyngel F , Watson R A
Published: January 2023

We present new intensity and polarization maps obtained with the QUIJOTE experiment towards the Galactic regions W49, W51 and IC443, covering the frequency range from 10 to 20 GHz at $\sim 1\, \text{deg}$ angular resolution, with a sensitivity in the range 35–79 $\mu \text{K}\, \text{beam}^{-1}$ for total intensity and 13–23 $\mu \text{K}\, \text{beam}^{-1}$ for polarization. For each region, we combine QUIJOTE maps with ancillary data at frequencies ranging from 0.4 to 3000 GHz, reconstruct the spectral energy distribution and model it with a combination of known foregrounds. We detect anomalous microwave emission (AME) in total intensity towards W49 at 4.7σ and W51 at 4.0σ with peak frequencies $\nu _{\rm AME}=(20.0\pm 1.4)\, \text{GHz}$ and $\nu _{\rm AME}=(17.7\pm 3.6)\, \text{GHz}$, respectively; this is the first detection of AME towards W51. The contamination from ultracompact H ii regions to the residual AME flux density is estimated at 10 per cent in W49 and 5 per cent in W51, and does not rule out the AME detection. The polarized SEDs reveal a synchrotron contribution with spectral indices αs = −0.67 ± 0.10 in W49 and αs = −0.51 ± 0.07 in W51, ascribed to the diffuse Galactic emission and to the local supernova remnant, respectively. Towards IC443 in total intensity we measure a broken power-law synchrotron spectrum with cut-off frequency $\nu _{\rm 0,s}=(114\pm 73)\, \text{GHz}$, in agreement with previous studies; our analysis, however, rules out any AME contribution which had been previously claimed towards IC443. No evidence of polarized AME emission is detected in this study.
Core-collapse supernovae in the Dark Energy Survey: luminosity functions and host galaxy demographics
Authors: Grayling M , Gutiérrez C P , Sullivan M , Wiseman P , Vincenzi M , Galbany L , Möller A , Brout D , Davis T M , Frohmaier C , Graur O , Kelsey L , Lidman C , Popovic B , Smith M , Toy M , Tucker B E , Zontos Z , Abbott T M C , Aguena M , Allam S , Andrade-Oliveira F , Annis J , Asorey J , Bacon D , Bertin E , Bocquet S , Brooks D , Carnero Rosell A , Carollo D , Carrasco Kind M , Carretero J , Costanzi M , da Costa L N , Pereira M E S , De Vicente J , Desai S , Diehl H T , Doel P , Everett S , Ferrero I , Friedel D , Frieman J , García-Bellido J , Gatti M , Gruen D , Gschwend J , Gutierrez G , Hinton S R , Hollowood D L , Honscheid K , James D J , Kuehn K , Kuropatkin N , Lewis G F , Malik U , March M , Menanteau F , Miquel R , Morgan R , Ogando R L C , Palmese A , Paz-Chinchón F , Pieres A , Plazas Malagón A A , Rodriguez-Monroy M , Romer A K , Roodman A , Sanchez E , Scarpine V , Sevilla-Noarbe I , Suchyta E , Tarle G , To C , Tucker D L , Varga T N ,   DES Collaboration
Published: January 2023

We present the luminosity functions and host galaxy properties of the Dark Energy Survey (DES) core-collapse supernova (CCSN) sample, consisting of 69 Type II and 50 Type Ibc spectroscopically and photometrically confirmed supernovae over a redshift range 0.045 < z < 0.25. We fit the observed DES griz CCSN light curves and K-correct to produce rest-frame R-band light curves. We compare the sample with lower redshift CCSN samples from Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) and Lick Observatory Supernova Search (LOSS). Comparing luminosity functions, the DES and ZTF samples of SNe II are brighter than that of LOSS with significances of 3.0σ and 2.5σ, respectively. While this difference could be caused by redshift evolution in the luminosity function, simpler explanations such as differing levels of host extinction remain a possibility. We find that the host galaxies of SNe II in DES are on average bluer than in ZTF, despite having consistent stellar mass distributions. We consider a number of possibilities to explain this – including galaxy evolution with redshift, selection biases in either the DES or ZTF samples, and systematic differences due to the different photometric bands available – but find that none can easily reconcile the differences in host colour between the two samples and thus its cause remains uncertain.
A unique, ring-like radio source with quadrilateral structure detected with machine learning
Authors: Lochner M , Rudnick L , Heywood I , Knowles K , Shabala S S
Published: January 2023

We report the discovery of a unique object in the MeerKAT Galaxy Cluster Legacy Survey (MGCLS) using the machine learning anomaly detection framework astronomaly. This strange, ring-like source is 30′ from the MGCLS field centred on Abell 209, and is not readily explained by simple physical models. With an assumed host galaxy at redshift 0.55, the luminosity (1025 W Hz−1) is comparable to powerful radio galaxies. The source consists of a ring of emission 175 kpc across, quadrilateral enhanced brightness regions bearing resemblance to radio jets, two ‘ears’ separated by 368 kpc, and a diffuse envelope. All of the structures appear spectrally steep, ranging from −1.0 to −1.5. The ring has high polarization (25 per cent) except on the bright patches (<10 per cent). We compare this source to the Odd Radio Circles recently discovered in ASKAP data and discuss several possible physical models, including a termination shock from starburst activity, an end-on radio galaxy, and a supermassive black hole merger event. No simple model can easily explain the observed structure of the source. This work, as well as other recent discoveries, demonstrates the power of unsupervised machine learning in mining large data sets for scientifically interesting sources.
Constraints on the X-ray luminosity function of AGN at z = 5.7–6.4 with the Extragalactic Serendipitous Swift Survey
Authors: Barlow-Hall C L , Delaney J , Aird J , Evans P A , Osborne J P , Watson M G
Published: January 2023

X-ray luminosity functions (XLFs) of active galactic nuclei (AGNs) trace the growth and evolution of supermassive black hole populations across cosmic time. However, current XLF models are poorly constrained at redshifts of z > 6, with a lack of spectroscopic constraints at these high redshifts. In this work, we place limits on the bright-end of the XLF at z = 5.7–6.4 using high-redshift AGN identified within the Extragalactic Serendipitous Swift Survey (ExSeSS) catalogue. Within ExSeSS, we find one serendipitously X-ray detected z > 6 AGN, ATLAS J025.6821-33.4627, with an X-ray luminosity of $L_\mathrm{X}=8.47^{+3.40}_{-3.13}\times 10^{44}\mathrm{erg.s^{-1}}$ and z = 6.31 ± 0.03, making it the highest redshift, spectroscopically confirmed, serendipitously X-ray detected quasar known to date. We also calculate an upper limit on the space density at higher luminosities where no additional sources are found, enabling us to place constraints on the shape of the XLF. Our results are consistent with the rapid decline in the space densities of high-luminosity AGN towards high redshift as predicted by extrapolations of existing parametric models of the XLF. We also find that our X-ray based measurements are consistent with estimates of the bolometric quasar luminosity function based on UV measurements at z ≳ 6, although they require a large X-ray to bolometric correction factor at these high luminosities.
Transition of latitudinal differential rotation as a possible cause of weakened magnetic braking of solar-type stars
Authors: Tokuno Takato , Suzuki Takeru K , Shoda Munehito
Published: January 2023

We investigate the role of latitudinal differential rotation (DR) in the spin evolution of solar-type stars. Recent asteroseismic observation detected the strong equator-fast DR in some solar-type stars. Numerical simulations show that the strong equator-fast DR is a typical feature of young fast-rotating stars and that this tendency is gradually reduced with stellar age. Incorporating these properties, we develop a model for the long-term evolution of stellar rotation. The magnetic braking is assumed to be regulated dominantly by the rotation rate in the low-latitude region. Therefore, in our model, stars with the equator-fast DR spin down more efficiently than those with the rigid-body rotation. We calculate the evolution of stellar rotation in ranges of stellar mass, $0.9 \, \mathrm{M}_{\odot } \le M \le 1.2\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$, and metallicity, $0.5\, \mathrm{Z}_{\odot } \le Z \le 2\, \mathrm{Z}_{\odot }$, where M⊙ and Z⊙ are the solar mass and metallicity, respectively. Our model, using the observed torque in the present solar wind, nicely explains both the current solar rotation and the average trend of the rotation of solar-type stars, including the dependence on metallicity. In addition, our model naturally reproduces the observed trend of the weakened magnetic braking in old slowly rotating solar-type stars because strong equator-fast DR becomes reduced. Our results indicate that latitudinal DR and its transition are essential factors that control the stellar spin down.
Real and counterfeit cores: how feedback expands haloes and disrupts tracers of inner gravitational potential in dwarf galaxies
Authors: Jahn Ethan D , Sales Laura V , Marinacci Federico , Vogelsberger Mark , Torrey Paul , Qi Jia , Smith Aaron , Li Hui , Kannan Rahul , Burger Jan D , Zavala Jesús
Published: January 2023

The tension between the diverging density profiles in Lambda cold dark matter simulations and the constant-density inner regions of observed galaxies is a long-standing challenge known as the ‘core–cusp’ problem. We demonstrate that the SMUGGLE galaxy formation model implemented in the arepo moving mesh code forms constant-density cores in idealized dwarf galaxies of M⋆ ≈ 8 × 107 Msun with initially cuspy dark matter (DM) haloes of M200 ≈ 1010 Msun. Identical initial conditions run with an effective equation of state interstellar medium model preserve cuspiness. Literature on the subject has pointed to the low density threshold for star formation, ρth, in such effective models as an obstacle to baryon-induced core formation. Using a SMUGGLE run with equal ρth, we demonstrate that core formation can proceed at low density thresholds, indicating that ρth is insufficient on its own to determine whether a galaxy develops a core. We reaffirm that the ability to resolve a multiphase interstellar medium at sufficiently high densities is a more reliable indicator of core formation than any individual model parameter. In SMUGGLE, core formation is accompanied by large degrees of non-circular motion, with gas rotational velocity profiles that consistently fall below the circular velocity $v_\text{circ} = \sqrt{GM/R}$ out to ∼2 kpc. Asymmetric drift corrections help recover the average underlying DM potential for some of our less efficient feedback runs, but time-variations in the instantaneous azimuthal gas velocity component are substantial, highlighting the need for careful modelling in the inner regions of dwarfs to infer the true distribution of DM.
Inclination dependence of warm coronal flux in high-accretion-rate AGNs
Authors: Tang Ze-Yuan , Feng Jun-Jie , Fan Jun-Hui
Published: January 2023

Most active galactic nucleus (AGN) spectra show a soft X-ray excess above the 2–10 keV power law extrapolation. A warm corona has been widely used to explain the excess, but its observed radiation flux in the actually physical environment has yet to be further studied. For the first time, we calculate the relativistic warm coronal flux under the finite disc-corona thickness in high-accretion-rate systems. The numerical results show that the warm coronal flux generally rises first and then drops with increasing inclination. The flux rise is more significant for a compact and low-temperature warm corona and can reach 1–2 dexes. Meanwhile, the flux drop is significant if and only if the warm corona is heavily obscured due to the finite thickness. Our model can successfully explain the soft excess variance and the X-ray weak fraction in a high-accretion-rate AGN sample. In conclusion, our study indicates that when fitting the soft X-ray spectra of AGNs, the relativistic inclination dependence of warm coronal flux is essential, especially for the high-accretion-rate systems with thick warm coronae.
Investigating the impact of reactions of C and CH with molecular hydrogen on a glycine gas-grain network
Authors: Heyl Johannes , Lamberts Thanja , Viti Serena , Holdship Jonathan
Published: January 2023

The impact of including the reactions of C and CH with molecular hydrogen in a gas-grain network is assessed via a sensitivity analysis. To this end, we vary three parameters, namely, the efficiency for the reaction ${\rm C} + {\rm H}_2 \longrightarrow {\rm CH}_{2}$, and the cosmic ray ionization rate, with the third parameter being the final density of the collapsing dark cloud. A grid of 12 models is run to investigate the effect of all parameters on the final molecular abundances of the chemical network. We find that including reactions with molecular hydrogen alters the hydrogen economy of the network; since some species are hydrogenated by molecular hydrogen, atomic hydrogen is freed up. The abundances of simple molecules produced from hydrogenation, such as CH4, CH3OH, and NH3, increase, and at the same time, more complex species such as glycine and its precursors see a significant decrease in their final abundances. We find that the precursors of glycine are being preferentially hydrogenated, and therefore glycine itself is produced less efficiently.
Dust processing in protoplanetary envelopes as the origin of hot minerals in comets
Authors: Ali-Dib Mohamad
Published: January 2023

Crystalline silicates are found in a large number of comets. These pose a long-standing conundrum for Solar system formation models as they can only be created in the inner hot disc at temperatures higher than 800 K, and there is no obvious mechanism to transport them out into the comets formation region. Here, we propose that these particles could have formed inside the hydrostatic envelopes surrounding young protoplanets still embedded in the protoplanetary disc. Using a simplified 1D model we investigate the thermal structure of these envelopes, and find that for core masses ranging from 0.08 to 1.5 M⊕, located anywhere between 1 and 30 au, the temperature and pressure at the base of the envelopes are high enough to quickly vapourize silicate particles of various sizes. Moreover, if the grain abundance is atleast solar, these envelopes become fully convective, allowing for dust ejection across the Bondi radius back into the disc. Amorphous silicates are hence thermally processed into crystalline particles in these envelopes, and then transported back to disc through convective diffusion to be finally incorporated into the cometary building blocks.
The homeodomain of Oct4 is a dimeric binder of methylated CpG elements
Authors: Tan Daisylyn Senna , Cheung Shun Lai , Gao Ya , Weinbuch Maike , Hu Haoqing , Shi Liyang , Ti Shih-Chieh , Hutchins Andrew P , Cojocaru Vlad , Jauch Ralf
Published: January 2023

Oct4 is essential to maintain pluripotency and has a pivotal role in establishing the germline. Its DNA-binding POU domain was recently found to bind motifs with methylated CpG elements normally associated with epigenetic silencing. However, the mode of binding and the consequences of this capability has remained unclear. Here, we show that Oct4 binds to a compact palindromic DNA element with a methylated CpG core (CpGpal) in alternative states of pluripotency and during cellular reprogramming towards induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). During cellular reprogramming, typical Oct4 bound enhancers are uniformly demethylated, with the prominent exception of the CpGpal sites where DNA methylation is often maintained. We demonstrate that Oct4 cooperatively binds the CpGpal element as a homodimer, which contrasts with the ectoderm-expressed POU factor Brn2. Indeed, binding to CpGpal is Oct4-specific as other POU factors expressed in somatic cells avoid this element. Binding assays combined with structural analyses and molecular dynamic simulations show that dimeric Oct4-binding to CpGpal is driven by the POU-homeodomain whilst the POU-specific domain is detached from DNA. Collectively, we report that Oct4 exerts parts of its regulatory function in the context of methylated DNA through a DNA recognition mechanism that solely relies on its homeodomain.
Operative Management of Stress-Positive Minimally Displaced Lateral Compression Type 1 (LC1) Pelvic Ring Injuries: Analysis of Outcomes Before and After Implementation of a Departmental Stress Protocol
Authors: Tucker Nicholas J. , Scott Bryan L. , Heare Austin , Stacey Stephen C. , Mauffrey Cyril , Parry Joshua A.
Published: January 2023

Objectives:

To compare the hospital course of patients with minimally displaced (<1 cm) lateral compression type 1 injuries treated before and after implementation of lateral stress radiographs (LSRs) to determine management.

Design:

Retrospective comparative cohort.

Setting:

Urban level 1 trauma center.

Patients/Participants:

Isolated lateral compression type 1 injuries managed before (n = 33) and after implementation of LSRs (n = 40) to determine management.

Intervention:

Patients in a prestress cohort managed nonoperatively versus patients in an LSR cohort managed operatively if stress positive (≥1 cm displacement on LSRs).

Main Outcome Measurements:

Physical therapy clearance before discharge, discharge location, hospital length of stay, and inpatient opioid morphine milligram equivalents were measured.

Results:

The prestress and LSR protocol groups were similar in demographic/injury characteristics (age, sex, mechanism, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, Nakatani classification, bilateral/unilateral injury, Denis zone, sacral fracture completeness, and sacral comminution). Forty-five percent of LSR protocol patients were stress-positive (n = 18) and managed operatively. The LSR protocol group was more likely to clear physical therapy by discharge (97.5% vs. 75.8%, PD: 21.7%, 95% CI: 5.1%–36.8%, P = 0.009), less likely to discharge to a rehabilitation facility (2.5% vs. 18.2%, PD: −15.7%, CI: −30.0% to −0.5%, P = 0.04), and had no difference in length of stay (MD: 0.0, CI:-1.0 to 1.0, P = 0.57) or inpatient opioid morphine milligram equivalents (MD: 9.0, CI: −60.0 to 101.0, P = 0.71).

Conclusion:

Implementation of an LSR protocol to determine management of minimally displaced stress-positive lateral compression type 1 injuries was associated with increased rates of operative management, physical therapy clearance by discharge, and a reduction in the number of patients discharging to rehabilitation facilities.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Role of hemoperfusion combined with hemodialysis in acute severe organophosphorus pesticide poisoning: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zeng Siyao , Ma Lei , Yang Lishan , Hu Xiaodong , Wang Cheng , Gou Yi , Li Yi
Published: January 2023

Background

Acute severe organophosphorus pesticide poisoning is a common severe emergency in developing countries. Our meta-analysis aimed to clarify the efficacy of hemoperfusion combined with hemodialysis on acute severe organophosphorus pesticide poisoning.

Methods

Several databases were searched. After formulating relevant inclusion and exclusion criteria, qualified studies were included, and the data were extracted. The outcome indicators were the success rate of rescue, the time of hospitalization, the incidence of complications, the time for the cholinesterase level to return to normal, the coma time, and the atropine dosage. The results were analyzed using risk ratios, weighted mean difference, standard mean difference, and 95% confidence interval. The Cochrane Collaboration tool was used to assess the risk of bias in all the included studies. In terms of statistical methods, we used RevMan software (version 5.3; The Nordic Cochrane Centre, The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark) and Stata (versions 14 and 16; StataCorp, College Station, TX, USA) for the data analysis.

Results

We included 92 randomized controlled trials with 6899 participants. Compared with the conventional emergency treatment group (CET group), the hemoperfusion group (HP + CET group), and the hemodialysis group (HD + CET group), the use of hemoperfusion combined with hemodialysis based on CET (HP + HD + CET group) significantly increased the success rate of rescue and reduced hospitalization time, the incidence of complications, time for cholinesterase level to return to normal, coma time, and atropine dosage.

Conclusion

Hemoperfusion combined with hemodialysis is effective in the treatment of acute severe organophosphorus pesticide poisoning. In the future, more scientifically designed, large-scale, high-quality, multicenter randomized controlled trials are needed to validate this study further.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura with neurological impairment: A Review
Authors: Zhu Hui , Liu Jing-Yao
Published: January 2023

The last 2 decades have witnessed considerable advances in our understanding of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). However, there is still some ambiguity regarding the precise nature of this disease, especially with respect to nervous system involvement and the correct nomenclature. This article seeks to summarize the clinical manifestations of TTP and the associated diseases. We describe TTP complicated with cerebrovascular disease, spinal cord injury, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), anxious-depressive symptoms, and cognitive decline. TTP with spinal cord injury is rarely reported. For better clarity, we discuss the case of a 57-year-old woman who was diagnosed with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease (NMOSD) with atypical TTP. The concurrent occurrence of NMOSD and TTP in this patient is consistent with the characteristics of acquired autoimmunity. We highlight the importance of early recognition of TTP in patients with atypical presentation who may not have the expected clinical or laboratory findings. This is particularly important in TTP patients with other concomitant autoimmune diseases or age-related comorbid conditions.
Overexpression of fatty acid desaturase 3 predicts poor prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Su Kuiwei , Wang Ying , Gu Hefeng , Ma Lan , Xuan Guihong
Published: January 2023

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, because its discovery time is in the late stage of the disease, so it is important to develop HNSCC biomarkers to achieve the purpose of early detection and treatment. Fatty acid desaturase 3 (FADS3), the third member of the FADS family, is involved in sphingolipid biosynthesis. Here, we for the first time investigated FADS3 expression in HNSCC, as well as its potential biological function, prognostic value and its impact on the immune system. In this study, we used bioinformatics for gene expression analysis, clinicopathological analysis, enrichment analysis, and immune infiltration analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets. Statistical analysis was done using R. Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource (TIMER) and CIBERSORT were used to analyze the effect of FADS3 on immune responses in HNSCC. Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), Kaplan–Meier (KM) survival analysis, and the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) data were used to validate the results from bioinformatics analysis. Our findings indicate that FADS3 influences HNSCC prognosis. High expression of FADS3 is related to higher lymphatic metastasis, histologic grade, and lymphovascular invasion. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that FADS3 is related to inhibition of amino acid metabolism. CIBERSORT analysis showed high FADS3 expression correlates with reduced levels of B cells. FADS3 is a marker of HNSCC, and high expression of FADS3 is associated with poor prognosis of HNSCC.
Use of proton pump inhibitors for the risk of gastric cancer
Authors: Gao Huiqin , Li Lunan , Geng Ke , Teng Changzheng , Chen Yuanyuan , Chu Fei , Zhao Yi
Published: January 2023

Background:

This study aimed to systematically analyze the association between long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and the risk of gastric cancer (GC).

Methods:

We performed a systematic search of articles on the relationship between long-term use of PPIs and the risk of GC from PubMed and EMBASE. We calculated the pooled odds ratio of GC in PPI users compared to non-PPI users using random-effects models.

Results:

This meta-analysis included 18 studies from 20 different databases with 4348,905 patients enrolled. In the random effects model, we found that an increased risk of GC among PPI users (OR = 1.94; 95% CI [1.43, 2.64]). The long-term use of PPIs compared with histamine-2 receptor antagonist users did not increase the risk of GC (OR = 1.65; 95% CI [0.92, 2.97]). Stratified analysis showed that PPI users had a significantly increased risk of noncardia GC (OR = 2.53; 95% CI [2.03, 3.15]), but had a relatively small relationship with the risk of gastric cardia cancer. (OR = 1.79; 95% CI [1.06, 3.03]). With the extension of PPI use time, the estimated risk value decreases (<1 year: OR = 6.33, 95% CI [3.76, 10.65]; 1–3 years: OR = 1.82, 95% CI [1.30, 2.55]; >3 years: OR = 1.25, 95% CI [1.00, 1.56]). Despite Helicobacter pylori eradication, the long-term use of PPIs did not alter the increased risk of GC (OR = 2.29; 95% CI [1.57, 3.33]).

Conclusion:

Our meta-analysis found that PPI use may be associated with an increased risk of GC. Further research on the causal relationship between these factors is necessary.
Ortner syndrome caused by aberrant right subclavian artery: A case report
Authors: Chen Yen-Wen , Chang Shih-Lun , Wu Nan-Chun , Shih Yun-Ju
Published: January 2023

Introduction:

Ortner syndrome (cardiovocal hoarseness) is characterized by recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis secondary to a cardiovascular abnormality. Ortner syndrome caused by an aberrant right subclavian artery following a retroesophageal course without aneurysm formation is rare, with only 1 case reported in the literature. Cardiovascular abnormalities could be life-threatening and require early diagnosis and treatment. However, such abnormalities are not often considered by clinical practitioners when patients initially present with hoarseness.

Patient concerns:

A 34-year-old woman without any medical history presented to our outpatient department with hoarseness and mild dysphagia for 1 month.

Diagnosis:

Upon stroboscopic examination, left vocal cord incomplete paralysis was noted. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed an aberrant right subclavian artery arising from the left aortic arch, causing focal compression of the esophagus and, potentially, compression of the left recurrent laryngeal nerve compression. The patient was diagnosed as left recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis caused by an aberrant right subclavian artery following a retroesophageal course without aneurysm formation.

Interventions:

The patient was referred to a cardiovascular surgeon for resection and bypass surgery. Both the dysphagia and the hoarseness improved after the surgery.

Outcomes:

Significant improvement of the left vocal cord paralysis and no vocal cord adduction were seen upon stroboscopic examination after 3 months. During the 5-year follow-up period, the patient remained well, and no signs of recurrence were noted.

Conclusion:

This case can increase otolaryngologists’ awareness of this etiology of hoarseness and consider it in their differential diagnosis.
Development and Implementation of a New Model of Care for Patients With Stroke, Acute Hospital Rehabilitation Intensive SErvices
Authors: Langton-Frost Nicole , Orient Stephanie , Adeyemo Jessica , Bahouth Mona N. , Daley Kelly , Ye Bingqing , Lavezza Annette , Pruski April
Published: January 2023

The optimal timing and intensity of early rehabilitation remain uncertain. The literature has stated that too early high-intensity mobility within 24 hours can result in poor outcomes as compared with the 24- to 48-hour poststroke (Stroke 2012;43:2389–94. Stroke 2004;35:1005–9). However, few studies have shown that mobilizing patients a few times per day can have positive results (Stroke 2004;35:1005–9. Cerebrovasc Dis 2010;29:352–60). In addition to mobility impairments, many patients after stroke have dysphagia, aphasia, and cognitive-linguistic deficits. To date, there is limited literature on early rehabilitation in these areas. Here, we describe a program of enhanced rehabilitation in the acute care hospital. In this enhanced model of care, our team delivers up to six sessions of therapy per day focused on the patient’s deficits. A patient can receive up to two sessions of each discipline daily to include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech language pathology. The model emphasizes team collaboration between therapy disciplines, physiatry, nursing, and neurology accomplished through a daily therapy schedule, rehabilitation huddle, and direct communication before and after therapy sessions. With this model, we aim to enhance coordination of care resulting in improved patient satisfaction and, ultimately, recovery.
A Unified Model for Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation
Authors: Raghavan Preeti
Published: January 2023

The current model of stroke care delivery in the United States and in many parts of the world is fragmented, resulting in lack of continuity of care, inability to track recovery meaningfully across the continuum, and lack of access to the frequency, intensity, and duration of high-quality rehabilitation necessary to optimally harness recovery processes. The process of recovery itself has been overshadowed by a focus on length of stay and the movement of patients across levels of care. Here, we describe the rationale behind the recent efforts at the Johns Hopkins Sheikh Khalifa Stroke Institute to define and coordinate an intensive, strategic effort to develop effective stroke systems of care across the continuum through the development of a unified Sheikh Khalifa Stroke Institute model of recovery and rehabilitation.
The Smoldering Pandemic: Self-Reported Prevalence Assessment of Prolonged Grief Disorder. A cross sectional study of bereaving adults during the Covid Pandemic in Pakistan
Authors: Siddiqua Ayesha , Ahmad Shaaf , Nawaz Iqra , Zeeshan Muhammad , Rao Amina
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The Covid-19 pandemic brought forward unprecedented psycho-social challenges for the world. The devastating loss of human lives created a burden of grief throughout the world. The bereaved were put at a greater risk of grief complications with high death tolls, strict social isolation guidelines and a halt to communal funeral practices. Prolonged Grief Disorder is a young psychiatric condition which refers to an abnormal grief reaction that exceeds the normal cultural, social and religious norms. In this study, we assessed the prevalence of Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD), as mentioned in ICD-11 in Pakistan, along with its correlation to anxiety, depression and psychological distress. Severity of grief reactions were compared with the place of death and relationship with the deceased.

Methods

A cross sectional online survey was conducted during the month of October 2021. Sample size was calculated using OpenEpi and data was collected through non probability sampling. The questionnaire was validated and shared through multiple social forums. A total of 737 participants residing in Lahore Pakistan, who had lost a close one due to Covid-19 participated in the study. Demographics, loss related information, and self-reported symptoms measured by 13-item Prolonged Grief Disorder Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire-4 and Kessler-6 scales were obtained.

Results

The prevalence of Prolonged Grief Disorder was found to be 15.4%. There was a significant correlation of grief intensity with depression and anxiety.Prolonged Grief Disorder puts individuals at greater risk of suffering from serious mental illnesses. People who were closely related to the deceased were more likely to experience severe Prolonged Grief Disorder symptoms.

Conclusion

Early detection and treatment of high risk individuals is necessary to mitigate the burden of grief and associated risk of anxiety and depression. Overall we conclude that discussions pertaining to grief and measures to curb the psychological effects are crucial in the post-pandemic world.
Molecular Mechanocytometry Using Tension-activated Cell Tagging (TaCT)
Authors: Ma Rong , Velusamy Arventh , Rashid Sk Aysha , Deal Brendan R. , Chen Wenchun , Petrich Brian , Li Renhao , Salaita Khalid
Published: January 2023

Flow cytometry is routinely used to measure single-cell gene expression by staining cells with fluorescent antibodies and nucleic acids. Here we present Tension-activated Cell Tagging (TaCT) to fluorescently label cells based on the magnitude of molecular force transmitted through cell adhesion receptors. As a proof-of-concept, we analyzed fibroblasts and mouse platelets after TaCT using conventional flow cytometry.
Safety and Efficacy of Oral administrated Cepharanthine in Non-hospitalized, asymptomatic or mild COVID-19 patients: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Trial
Authors: Wei Jianyi , Pan Shuming , Liu Shupeng , Qian Biyun , Shen Zixuan , Zhang Yan , Bian Yuexiang , ABuduaini ADila , Dong Fuchen , Zhang Xin , Li Jinhui , Yu Yongpei , Zhang Weituo , Wang Jun , Zhai Wei , Song Qixiang , Zheng Yu , Li Lei , Pan Weihua , Yu Lanlan , Zhan Qimin , Zhang Ning , Zheng Junhua , Yao Chen , Li Hai
Published: January 2023

Cepharanthine (CEP) is a natural remedy that potently inhibits SARS-CoV-2 activity both in vitro and in vivo. We conducted a proof-of-concept, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial among adults with asymptomatic or mild coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Patients were stratified randomly to de novo infection or viral rebound, and assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive 60 mg/day or 120 mg/day of CEP or placebo. Primary outcome the time from randomization to negative nasopharyngeal swab, and safety were evaluated. A total of 262 de novo infected and 124 viral rebound patients underwent randomization. In the 188 de novo patients included in modified intention-to-treat (mITT) population, when compared with placebo, 60 mg/day CEP slightly shortened the time to negative (difference=-0.77 days, hazard ratio (HR)=1.40, 95% CI 0.97 to 2.01, p=0.072), and 120 mg/day CEP did not show the trend. Among de novo patients in the per-protocol set (PPS), 60 mg/day CEP significantly shortened the time to negative (difference=-0.87 days, HR=1.56, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.37, p=0.035). Among viral rebound patients in the mITT population, neither 120 mg/day nor 60 mg/day CEP significantly shortened the time to negative compared to placebo. Adverse events were not different among the three groups, and no serious adverse events occurred. Treatment of asymptomatic or mild Covid-19 with 120 mg/day or 60 mg/day CEP did not shorten the time to negative compared with placebo, without evident safety concerns. Among de novo infected patients with good compliance, 60 mg/day CEP significantly shortened the time to negative compared with placebo (NCT05398705).
Bottlenose dolphins’ broadband clicks are structured for communication
Authors: Stepanov Arthur , Zhivomirov Hristo , Nedelchev Ivaylo , Stateva Penka
Published: January 2023

Bottlenose dolphins’ broadband click vocalizations are well studied in the literature with respect to their echolocation function. Their use for communication among conspecifics has long been speculated, but not conclusively established so far. In this study we categorize dolphins’ click productions into types on the basis of their amplitude contour and analyze the distribution of individual clicks and click sequences against their duration and length. We demonstrate that the repertoire and composition of clicks and click sequences follow three key linguistic laws of efficient communication, namely, Zipf’s rank-frequency law, the law of brevity and Menzerath-Altmann law. Conforming to the rank-frequency law suggests that clicks may form a linguistic code that is subject to selective pressures for unification, on the one hand, and diversification, on the other. Conforming to the other two laws also implies that dolphins use clicks in accord with the compression criterion, or minimization of code length without loss of information. Our results furnish novel evidence for conformity to the linguistic laws in this type of dolphins’ signal and in the realm of animal vocalizations more generally.
Insulin determines the effects of TGF-β on HNF4α transcription and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in hepatocytes
Authors: Feng Rilu , Tong Chenhao , Lin Tao , Liu Hui , Shao Chen , Li Yujia , Sticht Carsten , Kan Kejia , Li Xiaofeng , Liu Rui , Wang Sai , Wang Shanshan , Munker Stefan , Niess Hanno , Meyer Christoph , Liebe Roman , Ebert Matthias P , Dooley Steven , Wang Hua , Ding Huiguo , Weng Hong-Lei
Published: January 2023

To date, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been observed in cultured hepatocytes, but notin vivo. TGF-β is supposed to initiate EMT in hepatocytes by inhibiting HNF4αthrough the SMAD2/3 complex. We report that TGF-βdoes not directly inhibit HNF4α, but contributes to its transcriptional regulation by SMAD2/3 recruiting acetyltransferase CBP/p300 to the HNF4αpromoter. The recruitment of CBP/p300 is indispensable for C/EBPabinding, another essential requirement for constitutive HNF4αexpression in hepatocytes. In contrast to the observed induction of HNF4α, SMAD2/3 inhibits C/EBPαtranscription. Therefore, long-term TGF-βincubation results in C/EBPαdepletion, which abrogates HNF4αexpression. Intriguingly, SMAD2/3 inhibitory binding to the C/EBPαpromoter is abolished by insulin. Thus, maintaining a high insulin concentration in culture medium ensures constitutive HNF4αand thereby prevents TGF-β-induced hepatocyte EMT. Furthermore, insulin inhibits TGF-β-induced SMAD2/3 binding to the promoters of core EMT transcription factors e.g., SNAI1. SNAI1 transcription requires both SMAD2/3 and FOXO1 in nuclei. Insulin inhibits SNAI1 transcription through impeding SMAD2/3 binding to its promoter and inducing FOXO1 phosphorylation. Hence, insulin is the key factor that prevents TGF-β-induced EMT in hepatocytes.
What housing characteristics support seniors? Seniors’ experiences of housing and home in New Zealand during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: James B.L.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore what can be learned from the COVID-19 pandemic about adaptable, functional housing design that supports seniors’ resilience. This paper considers how physical and design features enable seniors to stay safe, develop coping strategies, give and receive care and maintain social connections.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research strategy incorporating thematic analysis was used, involving interviews and one focus group with seniors and interviews with housing providers and community organisations supporting seniors. Forty-eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with 54 seniors aged over 60 years living independently, not in aged care. Interviewees were selected to cover a range of ages and housing circumstances. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with 20 organisations.

Findings

The physical, amenity and design aspects of the living environment that support seniors’ well-being and resilience during a pandemic are: the ability to receive essential goods and services in the home; sufficient space and storage; flexible and adaptable living spaces; access to private indoor and outdoor space; ability to garden and grow food; having an outlook or view; functional heating, ventilation and appliances; and dwelling location allowing access to green spaces, food stores and services. The ability of housing to facilitate social connections is a fundamental enabler of seniors’ resilience.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to knowledge about physical and design aspects of the dwelling that enable protection and care in a pandemic and how that can help to future-proof housing. Its focus on enabling seniors’ resilience through housing recognises the growing significance of structural population ageing for housing design and delivery and the central role of housing to ageing-in-place policies that underpin health and welfare provision.
Accept or reject a ride? This is the problem
Authors: Fatemi Pour Elaheh , Madnanizdeh Seyed Ali , Joshaghani Hosein
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Online ride-hailing platforms match drivers with passengers by receiving ride requests from passengers and forwarding them to the nearest driver. In this context, the low acceptance rate of offers by drivers leads to friction in the process of driver and passenger matching. What policies by the platform may increase the acceptance rate and by how much? What factors influence drivers' decisions to accept or reject offers and how much? Are drivers more likely to turn down a ride offer because they know that by rejecting it, they can quickly receive another offer, or do they reject offers due to the availability of outside options? This paper aims to answer such questions using a novel dataset from Tapsi, a ride-hailing platform located in Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors specify a structural discrete dynamic programming model to evaluate how drivers decide whether to accept or reject a ride offer. Using this model, the authors quantitatively measure the effect of different policies that increase the acceptance rate. In this model, drivers compare the value of each ride offer with the value of outside options and the value of waiting for better offers before making a decision. The authors use the simulated method of moments (SMM) method to match the dynamic model with the data from Tapsi and estimate the model's parameters.

Findings

The authors find that the low driver acceptance rate is mainly due to the availability of a variety of outside options. Therefore, even hiding information from or imposing fines on drivers who reject ride offers cannot motivate drivers to accept more offers and does not affect drivers' welfare by a large amount. The results show that by hiding the information, the average acceptance rate increases by about 1.81 percentage point; while, it is 4.5 percentage points if there were no outside options. Moreover, results show that the imposition of a 10-min delay penalty increases acceptance rate by only 0.07 percentage points.

Originality/value

To answer the questions of the paper, the authors use a novel and new dataset from a ride-hailing company, Tapsi, located in a Middle East country, Iran and specify a structural discrete dynamic programming model to evaluate how drivers decide whether to accept or reject a ride offer. Using this model, the authors quantitatively measure the effect of different policies that could potentially increase the acceptance rate.