bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Newly proposed quantitative criteria can assess chronic atrophic gastritis via probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE): a pilot study
Authors: Robles-Medranda Carlos , Puga-Tejada Miguel , Oleas Roberto , Baquerizo-Burgos Jorge , Alcívar-Vásquez Juan , Del Valle Raquel , Cifuentes-Gordillo Carlos , Alvarado-Escobar Haydee , Ponce-Velez Daniel , Ospina-Arboleda Jesenia , Pitanga-Lukashok Hannah
Published: April 2022

Background and study aims Probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) can provide high magnification to evaluate chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG), but the current pCLE criteria are qualitative and prone to variability. We aimed to propose a quantitative CAG criterion based on pCLE to distinguish non-atrophic gastritis (NAG) from CAG.

Patients and methods This observational, exploratory pilot study included patients with NAG and CAG evaluated via esophagogastroduodenoscopy, pCLE, and histology. We measured the gastric glands density, gastric gland area, and inter-glandular distance during pCLE.

Results Thirty-nine patients (30/39 with CAG) were included. In total, 194 glands were measured by pCLE, and 18301 were measured by histology, with a median of five glands per NAG patient and 4.5 per CAG patient; pCLE moderately correlate with histology (rho = 0.307; P = 0.087). A gland area of 1890–9105 µm2 and an inter-glandular distance of 12 to 72 µm based on the values observed in the NAG patients were considered normal. The proposed pCLE-based CAG criteria were as follows: a) glands density < 5; b) gland area < 1/16 the pCLE field area (< 1890 µm2) or > 1/4 the pCLE field area (> 9105 µm2); or c) inter-glandular distance < 12 or > 72 µm; CAG was diagnosed by the presence of at least one criterion. The proposed criteria discriminated CAG with a ranged sensitivity of 76.9 % to 92.3 %, a negative predictive value of 66.6 % to 80.0 %, and 69.6 % to 73.9% accuracy.

Conclusions The proposed pCLE criteria offer an accurate quantitative measurement of CAG with high sensitivity and excellent interobserver agreement. Larger studies are needed to validate the proposed criteria.
Hospital compound-level endoscopy training quality performance: scoping the spectrum
Authors: Eley Catherine , Brown Chris , Hawkes Neil D. , Egan Richard J. , Lewis Wyn G.
Published: April 2022

Background and study aims This study aimed to assess the quality of endoscopy training in a UK Statutory Educational Body compared with Joint Advisory Group on Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Training standards (JETS).

Methods A total of 28,298 training procedures recorded by 211 consecutive cross-specialty trainee endoscopists registered with JETS in 18 hospitals during 2019 were analyzed. Data included trainer and trainee numbers, training list frequency, procedures, direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS) completion, and key performance indicators.

Results Annual median training procedures per hospital were 1395 (interquartile range (IQR) 465–2365). Median trainers and trainees per unit were 11 (6–18) and 12 (7–16), respectively, (ratio 0.8 [0.7–1.3]). Annual training list frequency per trainee was 13 (10–17), 35.0 % short of Joint Advisory Group (JAG) standard (n = 20, P = 0.001, effect size –0.56). Median points per adjusted training list were 11 (5–18). Median DOPS per trainee and trainer were three (1–6) and four (1–7) respectively; completing 0.2 DOPS (0.1–0.4) per list and amounting to six (2–12) per 200 procedures: fewer than half of the JAG standard (20 per 200) (P < 0.001, –0.61). Esophagogastroduodenoscopy median KPI: J maneuver 94 % (90–96), D2 intubation 93 % (91–96); Colonoscopy KPI: cecal intubation 82 % (72–90), polyp detection rate 25 % (18–34). Compound hospital score ranged from nine to 26 (median 17 [14–20]).

Conclusions Important performance disparity emerged with three-fold variation in compound hospital training quality and most units underperforming compared with JAG standards. Trainees and training program directors should be aware of such metrics to improve quality endoscopy educational programs and consider formal adjuncts to optimize training.
Cumulative sum learning curves guiding multicenter multidisciplinary quality improvement of EUS-guided tissue acquisition of solid pancreatic lesions
Authors: Schutz Hannah M. , Quispel Rutger , Veldt Bart J. , Smedts Frank M.M. , Anten Marie-Paule G.F. , Hoogduin Klaas J. , Honkoop Pieter , van Nederveen Francien H. , Hol Lieke , Kliffen Mike , Fitzpatrick Claire E. , Erler Nicole S. , Bruno Marco J. , van Driel Lydi M.J.W. ,   on behalf of QUEST
Published: April 2022

Background and study aims In this study, we evaluated the performance of community hospitals involved in the Dutch quality in endosonography team regarding yield of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided tissue acquisition (TA) of solid pancreatic lesions using cumulative sum (CUSUM) learning curves. The aims were to assess trends in quality over time and explore potential benefits of CUSUM as a feedback-tool.

Patients and methods All consecutive EUS-guided TA procedures for solid pancreatic lesions were registered in five community hospitals between 2015 and  2018. CUSUM learning curves were plotted for overall performance and for performance per center. The American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy-defined key performance indicators, rate of adequate sample (RAS), and diagnostic yield of malignancy (DYM) were used for this purpose. Feedback regarding performance was provided on multiple occasions at regional interest group meetings during the study period.

Results A total of 431 EUS-guided TA procedures in 403 patients were included in this study. The overall and per center CUSUM curves for RAS improved over time. CUSUM curves for DYM revealed gradual improvement, reaching the predefined performance target (70 %) overall, and in three of five contributing centers in 2018. Analysis of a sudden downslope development in the CUSUM curve of DYM in one center revealed temporary absence of a senior cytopathologist to have had a temporary negative impact on performance.

Conclusions CUSUM-derived learning curves allow for assessment of best practices by comparison among peers in a multidisciplinary multicenter quality improvement initiative and proved to be a valuable and easy-to-interpret means to evaluate EUS performance over time.
Preservation of terminal branches of the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve in open carpal tunnel release
Authors: Montanari Sara , Corzani Marco , Luchetti Riccardo , Atzei Andrea
Published: April 2022

Purpose Post-operative pain in the palm and scar area is the most common complication after carpal tunnel release and injury to the terminal branches of the palmar cutaneous nerve is generally considered one of the causes for this complication. The Authors performed an intraoperative study preserving the terminal branches of the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve and verifying the frequency, location and direction of the branches that cross an interthenar incision.

Method and Material Eighty-five consecutive patients (57 F – 28 M, mean age 66 y) underwent carpal tunnel release between February and June 2021. The cutaneous branches crossing the incision were identified and preserved by careful dissection. Subsequently they were counted and classified by their direction and distance from the proximal border of the transverse carpal ligament.

Results Sensory branches were found in 40 % of cases (34/85) and their origin was observed at an average of 1.05 cm (0–1.8 cm) distal from the proximal border of the carpal tunnel. A total of 44 branches were observed of which 23 branches crossed the incision with a transverse course and 21 with an oblique, generally proximal-distal radio-ulnar course. The subcutaneous layer overlying the distal third of the transverse carpal ligament was found to be devoid of sensory branches, therefore it can be considered a relatively safe area.

Conclusion Isolation and protection of palmar sensory branches is important for improving carpal tunnel release results. This goal can be more easily achieved by locating the skin incision on the distal third of the transverse carpal ligament, where the sensory branches have a lower frequency, possibly associated with a second proximal incision (biportal technique) to better visualize the proximal portion of the ligament and antebrachial fascia.
Durchführung und Befundung der 123I-mIBG-Szintigraphie bei Kindern und Jugendlichen mit Neuroblastom (Version 3) – DGN-Handlungsempfehlung (S1-Leitlinie), Stand: 2/2020 – AWMF-Registernummer: 031-040
Authors: Schmidt Matthias , Decarolis Boris , Franzius Christiane , Hero Barbara , Pfluger Thomas , Rogasch Julian Manuel Michael , Simon Thorsten
Published: April 2022

Zusammenfasssung

Die aktualisierte 3. Fassung der 123I-mIBG-Szintigrafie bei Kindern und Jugendlichen berücksichtigt folgende aktuelle Entwicklungen: Die Leitlinie fokussiert auf die diagnostische Anwendung von 123I-mIBG beim Neuroblastom. 131I-mIBG kommt bei der Radionuklidtherapie zum Einsatz. An wenigen Stellen wird auf Besonderheiten des 131I-mIBG bei der Befundung von Posttherapie-Szintigrammen eingegangen. Es werden aktuelle Entwicklungen in der Patientenvorbereitung bei den Medikamenteninterferenzen und Empfehlungen zur Schilddrüsenblockade berücksichtigt. Neue Empfehlungen der zu applizierenden Aktivität werden genannt und die damit assoziierten Probleme diskutiert. Die Bildakquisition unter Berücksichtigung von SPECT bzw. SPECT/CT des Körperstammes inkl. des Kopfes wird berücksichtigt. Die Befundung unter Verwendung des SIOPEN-Scores wird neu aufgenommen. Auf PET bzw. PET/CT mit 18F-DOPA bzw. 68Ga-DotaTATE wird verwiesen.
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gastroenterostomy versus surgical gastrojejunostomy in treatment of malignant gastric outlet obstruction: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bomman Shivanand , Ghafoor Adil , Sanders David J. , Jayaraj Mahendran , Chandra Shruti , Krishnamoorthi Rajesh
Published: April 2022

Background and study aims Palliative treatment of malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) has conventionally been with surgical gastrojejunostomy (SGJ). Advent of devices like lumen apposing metal stents has made endoscopic ultrasound-guided gastroenterostomy (EUS-GE) a potential alternative to SGJ for these patients. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that compared outcomes of EUS-GE versus SGJ.

Methods We performed a comprehensive systematic search of multiple electronic databases and conference proceedings through January 2021 and identified six studies that compared outcomes of EUS-GE versus SGJ in the management of malignant GOO. The rates of technical success, clinical success, and AEs were analyzed, and pooled odds ratios were calculated using random effects model.

Results Six studies were included in our analysis with a total of 484 patients, of which 291 underwent EUS-GE and 193 underwent SGJ. The technical success rate of SGJ was superior to EUS-GE (OR = 0.195; 95 %CI:0.054–0.702; P = 0.012; I2 = 0). The clinical success of EUS-GE was statistically similar to SGJ (OR = 1.566; 95 %CI:0.585–4.197; P = 0.372; I2 = 46.68 %). EUS-GE had significantly fewer AEs compared to SGJ (OR = 0.295; 95 %CI:0.172–0.506; P < 0.005; I2 = 0). Among studies which reported reintervention rates, EUS-GE was statistically similar to SGJ (OR = 0.587; 95 %CI:0.174–1.979; P = 0.390, I2 = 54.91). Minimal to moderate heterogeneity was noted in the analyses.

Conclusions EUS-GE has equivalent clinical success and reintervention rates, but significantly lower adverse events compared to SGJ. When feasible, EUS-GE appears to be an effective and safe alternative to SGJ for palliative management of malignant GOO.
Performance status of targeted biopsy alone versus Sydney protocol by non-NBI expert gastroenterologist in gastric intestinal metaplasia diagnosis
Authors: Faknak Natee , Pittayanon Rapat , Tiankanon Kasenee , Lerttanatum Nathawadee , Sanpavat Anapat , Klaikaew Naruemon , Rerknimitr Rungsun
Published: April 2022

Background and study aims According to a recent guideline, patients with gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM) should have at least five biopsies performed under the Sydney protocol to evaluate for risk of extensive GIM. However, only narrow-band imaging (NBI)-targeted biopsy may be adequate to diagnose extensive GIM.

Patients and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2019 and October 2020. Patients with histology-proven GIM were enrolled. All patients underwent standard esophagogastroduodenoscopy performed by a gastroenterology trainee. The performing endoscopists took biopsies from either a suspected GIM area (NBI-targeted biopsy) or randomly (if negative for GIM read by NBI) to complete five areas of the stomach as per the Sydney protocol. The gold standard for GIM diagnosis was pathology read by two gastrointestinal pathologists with unanimous agreement.

Results A total of 95 patients with GIM were enrolled and 50 (52.6%) were men with a mean age of 64 years. Extensive GIM was diagnosed in 43 patients (45.3%). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of NBI-targeted biopsy vs. the Sydney protocol were 88.4% vs.100 %, 90.3% vs. 90.3%, 88.4% vs. 89.6%, 90.3% vs. 100%, and 89.5% vs. 94.7%, respectively. The number of specimens from NBI-targeted biopsy was significantly lower than that from Sydney protocol (311vs.475, P < 0.001).

Conclusions Both NBI-targeted biopsy and Sydney protocol by a gastroenterologist who was not an expert in NBI and who has experience with diagnosis of at least 60 cases of GIM provided an NPV higher than 90%. Thus, targeted biopsy alone with NBI, which requires fewer specimens, is an alternative option for extensive GIM diagnosis.
Comparison of endoscopic ultrasound-directed transgastric endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography outcomes using various technical approaches
Authors: Bahdi Firas , George Rollin , Paneerselvam Kavea , Nguyen Dang , Abidi Wasif M. , Othman Mohamed O. , Raijman Isaac
Published: April 2022

Background and study aims Roux-en-Y gastric bypass presents an anatomic challenge for patients needing ERCP. EUS-directed transgastric ERCP (EDGE) offers high clinical success but carries considerable risk of adverse events (AEs) with no standardized technical approach. In our study, we review the safety and efficacy of our various EDGE technical approaches.

Patients and methods A retrospective single-center study of all patients who underwent EDGE procedures between February 2018 and November 2019. Primary outcomes included comparing the technical and clinical success, AEs, and lumen-apposing metal stent (LAMS) migration rates per access route (gastrogastric vs jejuno-gastric), number of procedure stages (single-stage vs two-stage), and stent size (15 mm vs 20 mm). Secondary outcomes included LAMS migration characteristics and management.

Results Thirty-two EDGE procedures were performed in 29 patients, including 17 single-stage and 15 two-stage procedures, 23 gastrogastric, and nine jejuno-gastric routes, fourteen 15-mm and 17 20-mm LAMS. Overall technical and clinical success rates were 96.9 % and 87.1 %, respectively, without any significant difference between groups. The overall AE rate was (34.4 %) and was significantly lower in the 20-mm LAMS group compared to the 15-mm group (17.6 % vs 57.1 %, P = 0.03). Compared to two-stage procedures, there was no significant difference in AEs with single-stage procedures (35.3 % vs 33.3 %, P = 0.33). The LAMS migration rate was (25 %) with no significant difference between groups. Most migrations were around the index procedure and managed endoscopically (62.5 %).

Conclusions EDGE offers high clinical success rates but AE rates remain significant. In our series, a 20-mm LAMS resulted in a significantly lower AE rate than the 15-mm LAMS. Large multicenter studies are recommended to identify technical factors leading to an optimal EDGE procedure.
Intra-sphincteric botulinum toxin in the management of functional biliary pain
Authors: Menon Shyam , Holt Andrew , Farmer Adam D.
Published: April 2022

Background and study aims The management of functional biliary-type pain remains a clinical challenge. Intra sphincteric botulinum toxin putatively exerts an anti-spasmodic and anti-nociceptive effect. The objective of this study was to examine the clinical response to intra sphincteric botulinum toxin in patients with functional biliary-type pain.

Patients and methods This was a cross-sectional (hypothesis-generating) study of prospectively collected data from patients referred to a tertiary center from 2014 to 2019. The efficacy of ampullary botulinum toxin injection for relief of pain was recorded at post-procedure outpatient review. Opioid analgesia, neuromodulatory medication, and frequency of hospital admissions were recorded.

Results A total of 119 consecutive patients (109 women, 10 men, mean age 45 years; range 17–77) underwent 411 intra-sphincteric botulinum toxin injection procedures (mean 2 procedures; range 1–15). A total of 103 patients (87 %) had a significant improvement in pain on post-procedure review and 77 % and 76 % of patients were opioid and admission free, respectively. Of the patients, 59 % were prescribed tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline), 18 % duloxetine, 13 % pregabalin, and 3 % mirtazapine. Loss of response with the initial dose of botulinum toxin occurred in 56 % of patients. Pain control was reestablished in 80 % of patients in this cohort following botulinum toxin injection at a higher dose.

Conclusions These data suggest that botulinum toxin may improve outcomes in patients with functional biliary pain. Further controlled studies are needed to clarify the role of Botox and neuromodulatory agents.
Verdacht auf artifizielle Störung – Automutilation im chirurgischen Alltag erkennen
Authors: Steubing Yonca , Goertz Ole , Lehnhardt Marcus
Published: April 2022

Hintergrund Im Rahmen artifizieller Störungen werden Symptome oder Krankheiten künstlich erzeugt, verstärkt oder vorgetäuscht, was in Folge zu schwerwiegenden körperlichen Schäden und erheblichem Missbrauch medizinischer Ressourcen führen kann. Die klinische Symptomatik ist gekennzeichnet durch protrahierte Krankheitsverläufe mit häufigen Klinikwechseln und multiplen invasiven Eingriffen aufgrund von ungewöhnlichen, meist chronischen Befunden. Differenzierte Symptomdarstellungen, fehlende Kenntnis der Krankheitsmerkmale und der schnelllebige Klinikalltag können zur Aufrechterhaltung der Erkrankung durch Nichterkennen oder Fehlbehandlung führen.

Methode Anhand klinischer Falldarstellungen aus einer Universitätsklinik für Plastische Chirurgie und auf Grundlage von selektiver Literaturrecherche soll ein Überblick über das Krankheitsbild der artifiziellen Störung und mögliche Handlungsstrategien gegeben werden.

Ergebnisse Ergibt sich klinisch der Verdacht auf das Bestehen einer artifiziellen Störung, sollten invasive Therapien begrenzt und psychosomatische oder psychiatrische Expertise eingeholt werden. Im Rahmen einer empathischen Arzt-Patienten-Beziehung und psychotherapeutischer Begleitung können Betroffene sukzessive an die Diagnose und Therapie herangeführt werden und Behandlungsabbrüche vermieden werden.

Schlussfolgerung Kenntnis über mögliche Indizien, die sich in der Anamnese, den Befunden und dem Verhalten der Patienten darstellen können, kann zur erfolgreichen Identifizierung und adäquaten Therapieeinleitung Betroffener führen. Dafür sollte die artifizielle Störung auch in primär somatischen Bereichen der Medizin in differenzialdiagnostische Überlegungen miteinbezogen werden. Da die Diagnose häufig auf Indizien basiert und durch vorenthaltene Informationen oder die ärztliche Schweigepflicht erschwert ist, könnte perspektivisch das Einführen eines zentralen Melderegisters zu einer schnelleren Diagnose und verbesserten Therapie führen
Surgical Treatment of Dynamic Nasal Collapse
Authors: Ji Keven Seung Yong , Krane Natalie A.
Published: April 2022

Nasal obstruction is a prevalent issue that significantly impacts patient quality of life and contributes to a large-scale financial burden. Internal or external nasal valve collapse may play a role in nasal obstruction, with varying etiologies. Surgical correction of nasal valve collapse is indicated when septal and/or turbinate surgery alone are not sufficient in correcting the nasal obstruction. The choice of how to address nasal valve repair depends on presenting findings, associated aesthetic concerns, particularly of the nasal tip, patient anatomy, and surgeon preference. This article provides a methodical approach to the diagnosis of nasal valve collapse, indications for repair, and provides detailed explanation of the operative techniques used to address nasal valve collapse, while also discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.
Enrichment of Complement, Immunoglobulins, and Autoantibody Targets in the Proteome of Platelets from Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Linge Carl Petrus , Jern Andreas , Tydén Helena , Gullstrand Birgitta , Yan Hong , Welinder Charlotte , Kahn Robin , Jönsen Andreas , Semple John W. , Bengtsson Anders A.
Published: April 2022

Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex disease characterized by autoimmunity toward apoptotic cells, excessive amounts of circulating immune complexes, and complement activation. A decreased platelet size has been observed in SLE and their nonhemostatic functions may play an active role in the disease. The main objective of this study was to find clues that could explain their decreased size and functional role, analyzing the entire platelet proteome.

Methods Platelets were isolated from 23 patients with SLE. The five individuals with the highest and lowest average platelet forward scatter were selected for further analysis. Platelet protein content was analyzed using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and compared with platelets from five healthy controls. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD031202.

Results Out of 2,572 proteins identified, 396 had significantly different levels (ANOVA q-value ≤ 0.01). Forty proteins, including immunoglobulin-, complement- and phosphatidylserine-binding proteins had higher abundance in platelets from SLE patients, largely independent of size (fold difference of ≥1.5 and a t-test p-value of ≤0.05 as cut-off). Functional characterization revealed increased degranulation and skewed hemostatic balance in platelets from SLE patients. In the SLE proteome, immunoglobulin proteins were negatively correlated to serum complement C3 and C4 and the highest relative levels were detected in platelets of normal size.

Conclusion Platelets from SLE patients shared a specific protein profile, including immunoglobulins, complement proteins, and autoantigens, largely independent of the platelet size and in agreement with an integrated role for platelets in SLE.
Hearing Aid Benefit in Patients with High-Frequency Hearing Loss
Authors: Beamer Sharon L. , Grant Ken W. , Walden Brian E.
Published: April 2022

Patients with hearing loss limited to frequencies above 2 kHz are often considered borderline candidates for hearing aids. In this study, we used the Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit to access 134 patients' perceived benefit with a variety of linear hearing aids, some more capable than others at achieving prescribed frequency gain targets. We also sought to explore various audiologic and subject factors that might have led patients to report different degrees of success or failure with their hearing aids. Results demonstrate that subjects with hearing loss limited to frequencies above 2 kHz benefit significantly from amplification. However, the amount of benefit reported is mostly unrelated to the hearing aid gain and frequency response. Of numerous audiologic and demographic factors explored in the present study, the number of hours of hearing aid use per day turned out to be the most important single factor that was significantly related to the amount of reported hearing aid benefit. However, the predictive value of knowing how many hours per day subjects wore their aids, or any other combination of factors explored, was quite limited and only accounted for a small amount of the variability observed in user benefit.

Abbreviations: AASC = Army Audiology and Speech Center, ANOVA = analysis of variance, AR = aural rehabilitation, AV = PHAB subscale Aversiveness, BN = PHAB subscale Background Noise, BTE = behind-the-ear hearing aid, DS = PHAB subscale Distortion, EC = PHAB subscale Ease of Communication, FT = PHAB subscale Familiar Talker, ITE = in-the-ear hearing aid, NAL-R = National Acoustic Laboratories-Revised presciptive hearing aid fitting formula, PHAB = Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit, RC = PHAB subscale Reduced Cues, RV = PHAB subscale Reverberation
Early-Onset Sensorineural Hearing Loss in a Child with Turner Syndrome
Authors: Roush Jackson , Davenport Marsha L. , Carlson-Smith Connie
Published: April 2022

Turner syndrome is among the more common but less familiar syndromes that include sensorineural hearing loss and middle ear disease. This article provides a review of the syndrome, an illustrative case, and a review of specific issues relevant to audiologic management of patients with Turner syndrome.

Abbreviations: GH = growth hormone, TS = Turner syndrome
Speech Recognition Ability in Noise and Its Relationship to Perceived Hearing Aid Benefit
Authors: Cord Mary T. , Leek Marjorie R. , Walden Brian E.
Published: April 2022

Hearing-impaired listeners with similar hearing losses may differ widely in their ability to understand speech in noise. Such individual susceptibility to noise may explain why patients obtain varying degrees of benefit from hearing aids. The chief purpose of this study was to determine if adaptive measures of unaided speech recognition in noise were related to hearing aid benefit. Additionally, the relationship between perceived hearing handicap and benefit from amplification was explored. Before being fit with hearing aids, 47 new hearing aid users completed a self-assessment measure of hearing handicap Then, unaided speech recognition ability was measured in quiet and in noise. Three months later, subjects completed a hearing aid benefit questionnaire. A weak relationship was observed between perceived hearing handicap and hearing aid benefit. There were no significant relationships between speech-in-noise measures and hearing aid benefit, suggesting that speech recognition ability in noise is not a major determinant of the benefit derived from amplification.

Abbreviations: CPHI = Communication Profile for the Hearing Impaired, HAPI = Hearing Aid Performance Inventory, HINT = Hearing in Noise Test, NAL-R = National Acoustic Laboratories-Revised procedure, S/N = signal-to-noise ratio, SRT = speech recognition threshold
Auditory Temporal Processing and Lexical/Nonlexical Reading in Developmental Dyslexics
Authors: Cestnick Laurie , Jerger James
Published: April 2022

Relationships between lexical/nonlexical reading and auditory temporal processing were examined. Poor nonlexical readers (poor nonword readers, phonologic dyslexics) had difficulty across tone tasks irrespective of speed of presentation or mode of recall. Poor lexical readers (poor irregular word readers, surface dyslexics) had difficulty recalling tones in a sequence only when they were presented rapidly. Covariate analysis supported these findings, revealing that nonlexical (nonword) reading performance is associated with general auditory performance, but lexical (irregular word) reading is particularly associated with auditory sequencing. These findings suggest that phonologic and surface dyslexics perform differently on nonspeech auditory tasks. Because the two different types of poor readers did not differ significantly on tests of memory and learning but did differ on auditory tasks, we suggest that their performance on the auditory tasks may reflect auditory processing abnormalities as opposed to more general learning or memory difficulties. In addition to these observed qualitative differences between groups on the tone tasks, collapsing groups (all readers) revealed significant correlations between nonword reading and the Same-Different tone tasks in particular, whereas irregular word reading was not associated with any tone tasks; there also appears to be a quantitative relationship between nonlexical reading and Same-Different tone task performance as better or worse nonword reading predicts better or worse performance on the Same-Different tone tasks. In particular, it is conceivable that an auditory temporal processing deficit might contribute to poor nonword reading.

Abbreviations: c-v = consonant-vowel, g-p = grapheme to phoneme, ISI = interstimulus interval, MMF = magnetic mismatch field, TOMAL = Test of Memory and Learning
Acquired Bilateral Peripheral Vestibular System Impairment: Rehabilitative Options and Potential Outcomes
Authors: Calder Jaynee H. , Jacobson Gary P.
Published: April 2022

Acquired bilateral vestibular impairment can be a devastating disorder that is most frequently the result of aminoglycoside-induced toxicity. The presenting complaints are typically oscillopsia and gait and balance disturbances. These patients can be excellent candidates for vestibular rehabilitation therapy that focuses on facilitating maximal use of any remaining vestibular function, improving gaze and postural stability through the use of visual and somatosensory cues, and improving home and workplace safety. The prognosis for recovery is determined by the extent of the loss and the presence of other progressive disorders that may affect vision or somatosensation, coexisting illnesses, and the patient's compliance with the therapy program. Two cases are presented to illustrate the salient aspects of vestibular rehabilitation for patients with acquired bilateral vestibular system loss, including factors affecting patient progress and final outcome.

Abbreviations: COR = cervico-ocular reflex, DHI = Dizziness Handicap Inventory, ENG = electronystagmography, IV = intravenous, VOR = vestibulo-ocular reflex
Workplace mistreatment for US women: best practices for counselors
Authors: Burns Stephanie T.
Published: April 2022

Workplace mistreatment for women increases depression, anxiety, burnout, low self-esteem, low life satisfaction, and psychological distress, and decreases work productivity. Additionally, victims and bystanders of workplace mistreatment are likely to leave an organization. To fulfill the objective of documenting the current best practices that could assist counselors working with and advocating for US women experiencing workplace mistreatment, a systematic literature review (SLR) of materials published in the past 15 years was conducted. The 21 articles found resulted in two major themes. The first theme, Addressing Female Mistreatment in the Workplace, had three sub-themes. Four materials discussed Workplace Interventions, eight discussed Workplace Training, and three discussed the Reporting of Workplace Mistreatment. The second theme, Counseling Women Experiencing Workplace Mistreatment, was supported by 11 articles. When working with employers, counselors can encourage year-round improvements in workplace recruitment, orientation, and inclusion of culturally diverse employees; offer bystander training; and create a comprehensive program to report and resolve workplace mistreatment concerns. Counselors working directly with women experiencing workplace mistreatment will want to help the client focus on productive cognitive processes, obtain social support, directly confront the workplace mistreatment, and negotiate the unfortunate realities of workplace mistreatment.
Hydrodynamic manipulation cloak for redirecting fluid flow
Authors: Pang Haixiang , You Yunxiang , Feng Aichun , Chen Ke
Published: April 2022

Due to fluid viscosity, marine vehicles and structures immersed in fluids are inevitably affected by various fluid resistances. To obtain an effective method to eliminate drag and achieve hydrodynamic invisibility, we propose an innovative theory, called arbitrary space transformation (AST) theory, to design hydrodynamic cloaks. This AST theory provides a strategy that enables spatial transformation between different coordinate systems, compressing arbitrary geometric space into a shell-shaped space, thereby realizing the hydrodynamic concealment and excellent drag reduction effect of arbitrary shaped target objects. The flow manipulation cloak shows outstanding performance for eliminating drag and cloaking aquatic and submerged objects under different inflow conditions. In addition, it can reduce the risk of erosion and blockage that cloaked arbitrary shaped objects or organs may encounter by shifting the angles between the inflow and the frontal surface of structures. This investigation enables a powerful means of fluid design, which will make it possible for complex geometries to be undetectable by an external observer and remain hidden in an environment filled with fluid forces.
Resonantly enhanced polariton wave mixing and parametric instability in a Floquet medium
Authors: Sugiura Sho , Demler Eugene A. , Lukin Mikhail , Podolsky Daniel
Published: April 2022

We introduce a new theoretical approach for analyzing pump and probe experiments in non-linear systems of optical phonons. In our approach, the effect of coherently pumped polaritons is modeled as providing time-periodic modulation of the system parameters. Within this framework, propagation of the probe pulse is described by the Floquet version of Maxwell’s equations and leads to phenomena such as frequency mixing and resonant parametric production of polariton pairs. We analyze light reflection from a slab of insulating material with a strongly excited phonon-polariton mode and obtain analytic expressions for the frequency-dependent reflection coefficient for the probe pulse. Our results are in agreement with recent experiments by Cartella et al. [Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 115, 12148 (2018)], which demonstrated light amplification in a resonantly excited SiC insulator. We show that, beyond a critical pumping strength, such systems should exhibit Floquet parametric instability, which corresponds to resonant scattering of pump polaritons into pairs of finite momentum polaritons. We find that the parametric instability should be achievable in SiC using current experimental techniques and discuss its signatures, including the non-analytic frequency dependence of the reflection coefficient and the probe pulse afterglow. We discuss possible applications of the parametric instability phenomenon and suggest that similar types of instabilities can be present in other photoexcited non-linear systems.
Self-affine $2$-attractors and tiles
Authors: Zaitseva Tatyana Ivanovna , Protasov Vladimir Yur'evich
Published: April 2022

We study two-digit attractors (2-attractors) in $\mathbb{R}^d$, which are self-affine compact sets defined by two affine contractions with the same linear part. They have widely been studied in the literature under various names (integer self-affine 2-tiles, twindragons, two-digit tiles, 2-reptiles and so on) due to many applications in approximation theory, in the construction of multivariate Haar systems and other wavelet bases, in discrete geometry and in number theory. We obtain a complete classification of isotropic 2-attractors in $\mathbb{R}^d$ and show that all of them are pairwise homeomorphic but not diffeomorphic. In the general, nonisotropic, case we
prove that a 2-attractor is uniquely defined by the spectrum of the dilation matrix up to affine similarity. We estimate the number of different 2-attractors in $\mathbb{R}^d$ by analysing integer unitary expanding polynomials with free coefficient $\pm2$. The total number of such polynomials is estimated using the Mahler measure. We present several infinite series of such polynomials. For some 2-attractors their Hölder exponents are found. Some of our results are extended to attractors with an arbitrary number of digits.
Bibliography: 63 titles.
Improving access to conservation detection dogs: identifying motivations and understanding satisfaction in volunteer handlers
Authors: Rutter Nicholas J. , Stukas Arthur A. , Howell Tiffani J. , Pascoe Jack H. , Bennett Pauleen C.
Published: April 2022

Context The use of conservation detection dogs (CDDs) is an established, highly efficient means by which data on cryptic and low-density plant and animal species can be collected in a relatively cost-effective way. Nonetheless, the time and resource costs associated with purchasing, training, and maintaining CDDs can be prohibitive, particularly for smaller organisations seeking to contribute to environmental work. A volunteer-based model of CDD training and deployment could make highly skilled teams more accessible to such groups, but little is known about why volunteers might choose to participate in such a program or what factors might maintain their motivation. Aims We previously reported on the effectiveness of a volunteer-based model of CDD training that began with 19 dog-handler teams. In the current study, we identify owner-reported motivations for, and satisfaction with, engaging in this 3 year program. Methods We used a combination of quantitative data from established questionnaires and qualitative data from semi-structured interviews to explore functional motivational themes among volunteers. Key results We identified six functional motivational themes in participants. Overall, volunteers tended to be initially motivated by a desire to engage in a meaningful activity with their dog. Handlers often reported engaging in iterative goal-setting and attainment through successive project stages, a strengthening of the dog–owner relationship and a growing tendency to place more emphasis on environmental/conservation-related goals as the program developed. Conclusions Suitable volunteers and their pet dogs can be trained as skilled CDD-handler teams. Importantly, teams can continue to participate in a volunteer-based program and contribute to conservation efforts for up to 4 years or longer, if their motivations and goals of participation can be facilitated through participation. Implications This is important information as training volunteer CCDs requires a substantial investment in terms of time and other resources. Only by focusing on factors which foster an optimal recruitment strategy and then enhance program satisfaction and participant retention, are such programs likely to be cost-effective in the longer term.
Remote sensor camera traps provide the first density estimate for the largest natural population of the numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus)
Authors: Thorn Sian , Maxwell Marika , Ward Colin , Wayne Adrian
Published: April 2022

Context Accurate estimates of population size is fundamentally important for effective conservation management of threatened species. Remote sensor camera traps often capture cryptic species that are difficult to sight or capture. When animals are individually identifiable, camera traps can be used in conjunction with mark–recapture methods to provide a robust estimate of density. This has been effective for medium and large mammals such as felid and quoll species. Less is known about whether this may be an effective approach for smaller species. The numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus), a small diurnal marsupial once widespread across southern Australia, is now highly restricted. Low densities and crypsis make them challenging to survey, and current population monitoring methods (driving transects and sign surveys) do not provide accurate density estimates. Aims This study aimed to: (1) assess whether numbats can be individually identified using camera trap images; and (2) use spatial and non-spatial capture–recapture methods to investigate whether camera trapping is a viable population monitoring tool for numbats in the largest extant population. Methods We conducted spatial and non-spatial population modelling using images captured incidentally during a large camera-trapping project. Key results We found numbats could be individually identified by stripe patterns from camera images that, in conjunction with capture–recapture modelling, could provide a density estimate. From 6950 trap nights there were 116 numbat detections on 57 of 250 cameras. Of these, 61 detections were used to identify 29 individuals and provide a density estimate of 0.017 ha−1 ± 0.004 (CV = 0.26). This density applied across the estimated extent of distribution suggests a substantially larger numbat population in the Upper Warren, Western Australia (~1900 adults) than previously assumed. Conclusions Camera trapping is a potential method for monitoring the population density of small uniquely marked species, such as the numbat, and for monitoring population trends in response to conservation efforts such as introduced predator control and translocations, as well as management actions such as prescribed burning and timber harvesting. Implications This study contributes to the understanding of situations where camera traps can be utilised to survey small, cryptic species. To provide a more reliable density estimate, and to develop an optimal sampling layout for numbats, further studies would be required.
Optogenetic activators of apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis
Authors: Shkarina Kateryna , Hasel de Carvalho Eva , Santos José Carlos , Ramos Saray , Leptin Maria , Broz Petr
Published: April 2022

Targeted and specific induction of cell death in an individual or groups of cells hold the potential for new insights into the response of tissues or organisms to different forms of death. Here, we report the development of optogenetically controlled cell death effectors (optoCDEs), a novel class of optogenetic tools that enables light-mediated induction of three types of programmed cell death (PCD)—apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis—using Arabidopsis thaliana photosensitive protein Cryptochrome-2. OptoCDEs enable a rapid and highly specific induction of PCD in human, mouse, and zebrafish cells and are suitable for a wide range of applications, such as sub-lethal cell death induction or precise elimination of single cells or cell populations in vitro and in vivo. As the proof-of-concept, we utilize optoCDEs to assess the differences in neighboring cell responses to apoptotic or necrotic PCD, revealing a new role for shingosine-1-phosphate signaling in regulating the efferocytosis of the apoptotic cell by epithelia.
Telomere dysfunction implicates POT1 in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Kelich Joseph , Aramburu Tomas , van der Vis Joanne J. , Showe Louise , Kossenkov Andrew , van der Smagt Jasper , Massink Maarten , Schoemaker Angela , Hennekam Eric , Veltkamp Marcel , van Moorsel Coline H.M. , Skordalakes Emmanuel
Published: April 2022

Exonic sequencing identified a family with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) containing a previously unreported heterozygous mutation in POT1 p.(L259S). The family displays short telomeres and genetic anticipation. We found that POT1(L259S) is defective in binding the telomeric overhang, nuclear accumulation, negative regulation of telomerase, and lagging strand maintenance. Patient cells containing the mutation display telomere loss, lagging strand defects, telomere-induced DNA damage, and premature senescence with G1 arrest. Our data suggest POT1(L259S) is a pathogenic driver of IPF and provide insights into gene therapy options.
Ascribing quantum system to Schwarzschild spacetime with naked singularity
Authors: Góźdź Andrzej , Pȩdrak Aleksandra , Piechocki Włodzimierz
Published: April 2022

We quantize the Schwarzschild spacetime with naked singularity using the affine coherent states quantization method. The novelty of our approach is quantization of both temporal and spatial coordinates. Quantization smears the gravitational singularity indicated by the Kretschmann invariant avoiding its localization in the configuration space. This way we resolve the singularity problem of considered spacetime at quantum level.
Electron ionisation of cyanoacetylene: ionisation cross sections and dication formation
Authors: Ellis-Gibbings Lilian K , Cooper Bridgette , Tennyson Jonathan , Price Stephen D
Published: April 2022

Cyanoacetylene (HC3N) is an important trace species in the atmosphere of Titan. We report, for the first time, absolute partial electron ionisation cross sections and absolute precursor-specific partial electron ionisation cross sections for cyanoacetylene, following an experimental and computational investigation. Our methodology involves using 2D ion–ion coincidence mass spectrometry to generate relative cross sections, over the electron energy range 50–200 eV. These relative values are then normalised to an absolute scale, using a binary encounter-Bethe (BEB) calculation of the total ionisation cross section. The BEB calculation agrees well with previous determinations in the literature. The mass spectrometric observations of HC2N+ and HCN+, ions with a connectivity markedly different to that of the neutral molecule, point towards a rich cationic energy landscape possessing several local minima. Indeed, [HC3N]2+ minima involving a variety of cyclic configurations are revealed by a preliminary computational investigation, along with two minima with linear and bent geometries involving H atom migration (CCCNH2+). Determination of the energy of a transition state between these local minima indicates that the dication is able to explore the majority of this rich conformational landscape at our experimental energies. This investigation of the energetics also determines an adiabatic double ionisation energy of 30.3 eV for the lowest lying singlet state of HCCCN2+, and 30.1 eV for the lowest-lying triplet state. The bulk of the cation pairs detected in the coincidence experiment appear to originate from markedly excited dication states, not the ground state. We observe 5 two-body dissociations of HCCCN2+, and subsequent decay of one of the ions generated in such two-body processes accounts for the majority of three-body dissociations we observe.
Enhanced ferromagnetic ordering of a Mn trimer symmetrically and fully exposed on iridium-doped graphene
Authors: Han Yan , Gao Junfeng , Jiang Yanhu , Wan Xiaodan , Wan Jian-Guo , Zhao Jijun
Published: April 2022

The structure and magnetism of a Mn trimer adsorbed on iridium-doped graphene are studied using density functional theory calculations. Our calculation results show that the Mn trimer prefers to locate on top of the Ir atom and forms a fully exposed high-symmetry configuration with large binding energy and hardness of rotation. The ferromagnetic ordering of the Mn trimer fully exposed the on iridium-doped graphene is enhanced five times compared to a free Mn trimer. Our study shows that the enhancement originates from the fixed long bond and the C
3v
symmetry of the Mn trimer constrained by the iridium-doped graphene.
Confronting Vegard’s rule in Ge1−x
Sn
x
epilayers: from fundamentals to the effect of defects
Authors: Magalhães S , Dias M , Nunes B , Oliveira F , Cerqueira M F , Alves E
Published: April 2022

Comprehensive and systematic study challenging the application of Vegard’s rule to germanium tin solid solutions grown on germanium buffer layers and 100 silicon substrates is presented. The binary’s lattice parameters, composition and respective uncertainties are determined through x-ray diffraction via reciprocal space mapping technique employing newly developed software. The tin content is confirmed by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. The statistical agreement between the tin contents derived by the different structural characterization techniques suggests the binary to follow generically the Vegard’s rule in the range of low Sn molar fractions (<5%). Phase separation, Sn segregation, point defects, post-growing oxygen impurities, and deteriorated surface morphology are found to be relevant within the ∼200 nm germanium tin films. Although, complex mechanisms triggering composition/strain heterogeneities are found in the analysed Ge1−x
Sn
x
compounds, the deviation from the perfect crystals is suggested to be not enough to distort the in- and out-of-plane lattice parameters away from its empirical linear combination.