bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Approximate message passing from random initialization with applications to
Z
2
synchronization
Authors: Li Gen , Fan Wei , Wei Yuting
Published: July 2023

This paper is concerned with the problem of reconstructing an unknown rank-one matrix with prior structural information from noisy observations. While computing the Bayes optimal estimator is intractable in general due to the requirement of computing high-dimensional integrations/summations, Approximate Message Passing (AMP) emerges as an efficient first-order method to approximate the Bayes optimal estimator. However, the theoretical underpinnings of AMP remain largely unavailable when it starts from random initialization, a scheme of critical practical utility. Focusing on a prototypical model called

Z
2

synchronization, we characterize the finite-sample dynamics of AMP from random initialization, uncovering its rapid global convergence. Our theory—which is nonasymptotic in nature—in this model unveils the non-necessity of a careful initialization for the success of AMP.
Optically controlled single-valley exciton doublet states with tunable internal spin structures and spin magnetization generation
Authors: Ruan Jiawei , Li Zhenglu , Ong Chin Shen , Louie Steven G.
Published: July 2023

Manipulating quantum states through light–matter interactions has been actively pursued in two-dimensional materials research. Significant progress has been made toward the optical control of the valley degrees of freedom in semiconducting monolayer transition-metal dichalcogenides, based on doubly degenerate excitons from their two distinct valleys in reciprocal space. Here, we introduce a type of optically controllable doubly degenerate exciton states that come from a single valley, dubbed as single-valley exciton doublet (SVXD) states. They are unique in that their constituent holes originate from the same valence band, making possible the direct optical control of the spin structure of the excited constituent electrons. Combining ab initio
GW
plus Bethe–Salpeter equation (
GW
-BSE) calculations and a theoretical analysis method, we demonstrate such SVXD in substrate-supported monolayer bismuthene—which has been successfully grown using molecular beam epitaxy. In each of the two distinct valleys in the Brillouin zone, strong spin–orbit coupling and

C

3
v

symmetry lead to a pair of degenerate 1s exciton states (the SVXD states) with opposite spin configurations. Any coherent linear combinations of the SVXD in a single valley can be excited by light with a specific polarization, enabling full manipulation of their internal spin configurations. In particular, a controllable net spin magnetization can be generated through light excitation. Our findings open routes to control quantum degrees of freedom, paving the way for applications in spintronics and quantum information science.
Top-down meets bottom-up
Authors: Kleinke Sonja
Published: July 2023

With their new patterns of participation and interaction in political discourse, Opinion sections of online newspapers played an important role in the dissemination and critical public discussion of governmental crisis communication during the pandemic. Scrutinizing above-the-line and below-the-line commenting in the Opinion section of The Guardian online, the current study focuses on the complexities of the mediation and reception of politicians’ Covid-19 communication at the interface of institutionalized political and participatory online discourses. It carves out different, but interwoven dimensions of this mediation to detail the specific framing conditions of the reception process. Focusing on quotations as an important connecting link between these different discourse domains, it examines firstly, how a(bove) t(he) l(ine)-commenters use quotations to position themselves critically vis-à-vis governmental discourses; secondly, which overall verbal strategies are evident in governmental discourses that address the public indicated/targeted in the atl-comments? and thirdly, whether and how users respond to atl-quotations of politicians in their respective b(elow)t(he)l(ine)-comments.
Trump’s framing of Covid-19 as a war and conspiracy theories
Authors: Musolff Andreas
Published: July 2023

The use of war-related metaphors by Western political leaders to frame the COVID19 pandemic has drawn strong criticism, both in the media and among critical discourse analysts. A particular reference point in such criticisms has been the long-standing critique of the illness-as war metaphor because it frames patients’ bodies as battlegrounds and favours ‘radical cure’ solutions that prioritize elimination of the illness as an enemy. This paper investigates the links between the pandemic as war metaphor scenario and Covid-19-related conspiracy theories in the sense of flawed, i.e. empirically and/or logically unwarranted theories (UCTs), with special reference to the anti-Chinese Covid-19-UCT that was used by the former US President Trump and other conspiracists who pretended to be in a situation of self-defense that entitled them to commit acts of resistance against a perceived war enemy.

It is, however, important to distinguish routine uses of the war-metaphor from narratively elaborated, ideologically invested metaphor scenarios such as Trump’s appeal to fight the “China virus”. It is the latter that can best be exploited in conspiracy theories for their implications, e.g. the identification of supposed ‘culprits’ and ‘traitors’ and the legitimacy of ‘fighting back’ against them. For this reason, “reframing” efforts, which have been proposed for Covid-19 in terms of the pandemic as war metaphor, should not target whole source domains but concentrate specifically on critiquing those scenarios that lead to the stigmatization of social/national groups.
Insertable cardiac monitoring results in higher rates of atrial fibrillation diagnosis and oral anticoagulation prescription after ischaemic stroke
Authors: Boriani Giuseppe , Auricchio Angelo , Botto Giovanni Luca , Joseph Jennifer M , Roberts Gregory J , Grammatico Andrea , Nabutovsky Yelena , Piccini Jonathan P
Published: July 2023

Aims

After an ischaemic stroke, atrial fibrillation (AF) detection allows for improved secondary prevention strategies. This study aimed to compare AF detection and oral anticoagulant (OAC) initiation in patients with an insertable cardiac monitor (ICM) vs. external cardiac monitor (ECM) after ischaemic stroke.

Methods and results

Medicare Fee-for-Service (FFS) insurance claims and Abbott Labs device registration data were used to identify patients hospitalized with an ischaemic stroke in 2017–2019 who received an ICM or ECM within 3 months. Patients with continuous Medicare FFS insurance and prescription drug enrolment in the prior year were included. Patients with prior AF, atrial flutter, cardiac devices, or OAC were excluded. Insertable cardiac monitor and ECM patients were propensity score matched 1:4 on demographics, comorbidities, and stroke hospitalization characteristics. The outcomes of interest were AF detection and OAC initiation evaluated with Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional hazard regression analyses. A total of 5702 Medicare beneficiaries (ICM, n = 444; ECM, n = 5258) met inclusion criteria. The matched cohort consisted of 2210 Medicare beneficiaries (ICM, n = 442; ECM, n = 1768) with 53% female, mean age 75 years, and mean CHA₂DS₂-VASc score 4.6 (1.6). Insertable cardiac monitor use was associated with a higher probability of AF detection [(hazard ratio (HR) 2.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) (2.31, 3.59)] and OAC initiation [HR 2.91, CI (2.28, 3.72)] compared to patients monitored only with ECM.

Conclusion

Patients with an ischaemic stroke monitored with an ICM were almost three times more likely to be diagnosed with AF and to be prescribed OAC compared to patients who received ECM only.
Knowledge production on peace: actors, hierarchies and policy relevance
Authors: Hellmüller Sara , Goetschel Laurent , Lidén Kristoffer
Published: July 2023

This special section focuses on knowledge production on peace by asking three inter-related questions: who produces knowledge on peace, what knowledge is prioritized and how does it feed into policy and practice. The articles of the section provide a critical perspective on the actors, dynamics and hierarchies in peace studies and offer insights into how current biases may be addressed. The special section contributes to peace research and broader International Relations in three ways. First, it speaks to the core of debates about the original purpose of the disciplines and their proximity to policy debates. Second, it is embedded in current debates about gendering and decolonializing the disciplines and the need to ensure more diversity. Third, it is part of an emerging research agenda on what types of knowledge influence which types of actors and institutions. Overall, the special section shows that especially in times of tectonic changes in world politics that lead to a revisiting of our thinking about peace and conflict, it is crucial to understand what knowledge is privileged, whose knowledge this is and how the knowledge relates to the practices it seeks to inform. Only then can built-in biases, hierarchies and practical disconnects be overcome.
Women in Combat Need a Collaborative Culture Shift
Authors: Brady Elise , Keller Margaux F
Published: July 2023

The 2021 Women in Combat (WIC) Symposium brought together hundreds of service members, researchers, and multidisciplinary leaders for 3 days of virtual education and interactive discussion regarding female leadership, operational performance, and physical health and well-being. Three days of presentations were followed by virtual face-to-face breakout room sessions that aimed to identify gaps currently impacting military servicewomen, mirroring the inaugural WIC Symposium held in 2014. Keynote speakers revisited old recommendations and redefined these in the context of new research and policy changes within the Department of Defense (DoD), making it apparent that although much work has been done, policy and practice are yet to fully integrate the research recommendations that will improve the health and wellness of servicewomen. Originally planned as an in-person meeting, the WIC Symposium was held completely online because of the sustained threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. This event was collectively attended by nearly 10,000 people, reflecting an attendance of over ten times the number of registered attendees. The 2021 WIC Symposium was successful in part because of the groundwork laid by previous researchers who laid out virtual meeting best practices and in part because of the increased accessibility of an online event.
Target selection for the DESI Peculiar Velocity Survey
Authors: Saulder Christoph , Howlett Cullan , Douglass Kelly A , Said Khaled , BenZvi Segev , Ahlen Steven , Aldering Greg , Bailey Stephen , Brooks David , Davis Tamara M , de la Macorra Axel , Dey Arjun , Font-Ribera Andreu , Forero-Romero Jaime E , Gontcho A. Gontcho Satya , Honscheid Klaus , Kim Alex G , Kisner Theodore , Kremin Anthony , Landriau Martin , Levi Michael E , Lucey John , Meisner Aaron M , Miquel Ramon , Moustakas John , Myers Adam D , Palanque-Delabrouille Nathalie , Percival Will , Poppett Claire , Prada Francisco , Qin Fei , Schubnell Michael , Tarlé Gregory , Vargas Magaña Mariana , Weaver Benjamin Alan , Zhou Rongpu , Zhou Zhimin , Zou Hu
Published: July 2023

We describe the target selection and characteristics of the DESI Peculiar Velocity Survey, the largest survey of peculiar velocities (PVs) using both the fundamental plane (FP) and the Tully–Fisher (TF) relationship planned to date. We detail how we identify suitable early-type galaxies (ETGs) for the FP and suitable late-type galaxies (LTGs) for the TF relation using the photometric data provided by the DESI Legacy Imaging Survey DR9. Subsequently, we provide targets for 373 533 ETGs and 118 637 LTGs within the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) 5-yr footprint. We validate these photometric selections using existing morphological classifications. Furthermore, we demonstrate using survey validation data that DESI is able to measure the spectroscopic properties to sufficient precision to obtain PVs for our targets. Based on realistic DESI fibre assignment simulations and spectroscopic success rates, we predict the final DESI PV Survey will obtain ∼133 000 FP-based and ∼53 000 TF-based PV measurements over an area of 14 000 deg2. We forecast the ability of using these data to measure the clustering of galaxy positions and PVs from the combined DESI PV and Bright Galaxy Surveys (BGS), which allows for cancellation of cosmic variance at low redshifts. With these forecasts, we anticipate a 4 per cent statistical measurement on the growth rate of structure at z < 0.15. This is over two times better than achievable with redshifts from the BGS alone. The combined DESI PV and BGS will enable the most precise tests to date of the time and scale dependence of large-scale structure growth at z < 0.15.
Inferring the impact of feedback on the matter distribution using the Sunyaev Zel’dovich effect: insights from CAMELS simulations and ACT + DES data
Authors: Pandey Shivam , Lehman Kai , Baxter Eric J , Ni Yueying , Anglés-Alcázar Daniel , Genel Shy , Villaescusa-Navarro Francisco , Delgado Ana Maria , di Matteo Tiziana
Published: July 2023

Feedback from active galactic nuclei and stellar processes changes the matter distribution on small scales, leading to significant systematic uncertainty in weak lensing constraints on cosmology. We investigate how the observable properties of group-scale haloes can constrain feedback’s impact on the matter distribution using Cosmology and Astrophysics with MachinE Learning Simulations (CAMELS). Extending the results of previous work to smaller halo masses and higher wavenumber, k, we find that the baryon fraction in haloes contains significant information about the impact of feedback on the matter power spectrum. We explore how the thermal Sunyaev Zel’dovich (tSZ) signal from group-scale haloes contains similar information. Using recent Dark Energy Survey weak lensing and Atacama Cosmology Telescope tSZ cross-correlation measurements and models trained on CAMELS, we obtain 10 per cent constraints on feedback effects on the power spectrum at $k \sim 5\, h\, {\rm Mpc}^{-1}$. We show that with future surveys, it will be possible to constrain baryonic effects on the power spectrum to $\mathcal {O}(\lt 1~{{\ \rm per\ cent}})$ at $k = 1\, h\, {\rm Mpc}^{-1}$ and $\mathcal {O}(3~{{\ \rm per\ cent}})$ at $k = 5\, h\, {\rm Mpc}^{-1}$ using the methods that we introduce here. Finally, we investigate the impact of feedback on the matter bispectrum, finding that tSZ observables are highly informative in this case.
STE20‐type kinases MST3 and MST4 promote the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma: Evidence from human cell culture and expression profiling of liver biopsies
Authors: Caputo Mara , Xia Ying , Anand Sumit Kumar , Cansby Emmelie , Andersson Emma , Marschall Hanns‐Ulrich , Königsrainer Alfred , Peter Andreas , Mahlapuu Margit
Published: July 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most fatal and fastest growing malignancies. Recently, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), characterized by liver steatosis, inflammation, cell injury (hepatocyte ballooning), and different stages of fibrosis, has emerged as a major catalyst for HCC. Because the STE20‐type kinases, MST3 and MST4, have been described as critical molecular regulators of NASH pathophysiology, we here focused on determining the relevance of these proteins in human HCC. By analyzing public datasets and in‐house cohorts, we found that hepatic MST3 and MST4 expression was positively correlated with the incidence and severity of HCC. We also found that the silencing of both MST3 and MST4, but also either of them individually, markedly suppressed the tumorigenesis of human HCC cells including attenuated proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. Mechanistic investigations revealed lower activation of STAT3 signaling in MST3/MST4‐deficient hepatocytes and identified GOLGA2 and STRIPAK complex as the binding partners of both MST3 and MST4. These findings reveal that MST3 and MST4 play a critical role in promoting the progression of HCC and suggest that targeting these kinases may provide a novel strategy for the treatment of liver cancer.
The role ofSMURFsin non‐cancerous diseases
Authors: Wang Dong , Zou Yuanming , Huang Xinyue , Yin Zeyu , Li Mohan , Xu Jiaqi , Wu Boquan , Li Da , Zhang Ying , Sun Yingxian , Zhang Xingang , Zhang Naijin
Published: July 2023

The ubiquitin‐proteasome system is a crucial mechanism for regulating protein levels in cells, with substrate‐specific E3 ubiquitin ligases serving as an integral component of this system. Among these ligases are SMAD‐specific E3 ubiquitin‐protein ligase 1 (SMURF1) and SMAD‐specific E3 ubiquitin‐protein ligase 2 (SMURF2), which belong to the neural precursor cell‐expressed developmentally downregulated 4 (NEDD4) subfamily of Homologous to E6‐AP COOH terminus (HECT)‐type E3 ligases. As E3 ligases, SMURFs have critical functions in regulating the stability of multiple proteins, thereby maintaining physiological processes such as cell migration, proliferation, and apoptosis. The occurrence of many diseases is attributed to abnormal cell physiology and an imbalance in cell homeostasis. It is noteworthy that SMURFs play pivotal roles in disease progression, with the regulatory functions being complex and either facilitative or inhibitory. In this review, we elucidate the mechanisms by which SMURF1 and SMURF2 can regulate disease progression in non‐cancerous diseases. These significant findings offer potential novel therapeutic targets for various diseases and new avenues for research on SMURF proteins.
Ocular surface inflammation and ectatic corneal disorders
Authors: Erdinest Nir , Wajnsztajn Denise , London Naomi , Solomon Abraham
Published: July 2023

Purpose of review

Inflammatory mediators are a focus of recent corneal ectasia (CE) research and are a profound, modifiable contributor to CE in general and keratoconus (KC) in particular, opening a path to explore new methods of control. As advanced imaging technology and expanded population screening allow for earlier detection, the possibility of early intervention can profoundly change the prognosis of CE.

Recent findings

Significant increases in the inflammatory mediators and immune components have been observed in the cornea, tear fluid, and blood of ectasia patients, while inflammation dampeners such as vitamin D and their receptors are reduced. Atopy and allergy have a strong association with KC, known to increase itch factors and stimulate eye rubbing, a risk factor in ectasia pathogenesis. Management of atopy or allergic conditions and topical anti-inflammatories has helped stabilize CE disease.

Strategies such as monitoring inflammatory factors and using immune or inflammatory modulators, including managing subclinical inflammation, may be clinically beneficial in stabilizing the disease and improving outcomes. The detected factors are biomarkers, but as yet unproven to be sensitive or specific enough to be considered biomarkers for early detection of CE. The establishment of such biomarkers could improve the therapeutic outcome.
Real-world pharmacogenetics of statin intolerance: effects of SLCO1B1, ABCG2, and CYP2C9 variants
Authors: Lönnberg K. Ivar , Tornio Aleksi , Hirvensalo Päivi , Keskitalo Jenni , Mustaniemi Anna-Liina , Kiiski Johanna I. , Filppula Anne M. , Niemi Mikko
Published: July 2023

Objective

The association of SLCO1B1 c.521T>C with simvastatin-induced muscle toxicity is well characterized. However, different statins are subject to metabolism and transport also by other proteins exhibiting clinically meaningful genetic variation. Our aim was to investigate associations of SLCO1B1 c.521T>C with intolerance to atorvastatin, fluvastatin, pravastatin, rosuvastatin, or simvastatin, those of ABCG2 c.421C>A with intolerance to atorvastatin, fluvastatin, or rosuvastatin, and that of CYP2C9*2 and *3 alleles with intolerance to fluvastatin.

Methods

We studied the associations of these variants with statin intolerance in 2042 patients initiating statin therapy by combining genetic data from samples from the Helsinki Biobank to clinical chemistry and statin purchase data.

Results

We confirmed the association of SLCO1B1 c.521C/C genotype with simvastatin intolerance both by using phenotype of switching initial statin to another as a marker of statin intolerance [hazard ratio (HR) 1.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08–3.25, P = 0.025] and statin switching along with creatine kinase measurement (HR 5.44, 95% CI 1.49–19.9, P = 0.011). No significant association was observed with atorvastatin and rosuvastatin. The sample sizes for fluvastatin and pravastatin were relatively small, but SLCO1B1 c.521T>C carriers had an increased risk of pravastatin intolerance defined by statin switching when compared to homozygous reference T/T genotype (HR 2.11, 95% CI 1.01–4.39, P = 0.047).

Conclusion

The current results can inform pharmacogenetic statin prescribing guidelines and show feasibility for the methodology to be used in larger future studies.
Nurse support for pain and anxiety control in women undergoing diagnostic hysteroscopy: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: de Campos Belisa Franco , Benetti-Pinto Cristina Laguna , Yela Daniela Angerame
Published: July 2023

Objective

The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of nurse support for controlling pain and anxiety in women undergoing diagnostic hysteroscopy.

Methods

This randomized clinical trial included 192 women who underwent diagnostic hysteroscopy at an academic hospital. Women were divided into two groups: those who received nurse support (n = 95) as the intervention group and those who did not (n = 97) as the control group.

Results

The mean age of women was 54.24 ± 13.91 years and 53.47 ± 13.24 years (P = 0.670) in the intervention and control groups, respectively. There were no differences in clinical and sociodemographic variables between the groups. The mean pain score during examination was 6.62 ± 2.60 and 7.05 ± 2.30 (P = 0.327) for the intervention and control groups, respectively. Most women in both groups were satisfied with the examination (P = 0.777). There was a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure and heart rate during the examination in the intervention group (P = 0.029 and P < 0.001, respectively) and an increase in anxiety scores in the control group (P = 0.009).

Conclusions

There was no reduction in pain scores during hysteroscopy with nurse support. However, the control group showed an increase in anxiety scores after the hysteroscopy.
PNEUMATIC DISPLACEMENT OF HEMORRHAGIC BACILLARY LAYER DETACHMENT
Authors: Alderman David R. B. , Bracha Peter
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to describe the management of a hemorrhagic bacillary layer detachment (BALAD) in a patient with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

Methods:

The clinical records and imaging were reviewed.

Results:

A 74-year-old woman presented with acute-onset hemorrhagic neovascular age-related macular degeneration with a large hemorrhagic BALAD. The intra-BALAD hemorrhage was amenable to displacement with SF6 pneumatic displacement with subsequent VA recovery.

Conclusion:

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) pneumatic displacement in combination with aflibercept injection is a viable means by which to manage a hemorrhagic BALAD in the context of neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Displacement of large intra-BALAD hemorrhages can result in good visual recovery.
Impact of Hurricane Harvey on Inpatient Asthma Hospitalization Visits Within Southeast Texas, 2016–2019
Authors: Li Yiyao , Buendia Justin , Sears Sabeena , Ibrahimovic Mirela , Bertero Heather , Wiseman Rachel , Bhakta Nimisha
Published: July 2023

Objective

The aim of the study is to estimate inpatient asthma hospital visit rates among impacted Texans in Public Health Region 6/5S during the year of and after Hurricane Harvey.

Methods

Asthma inpatient hospitalization discharges were collected from the Texas Health Care Information Collection database (2016–2019).

Results

Females (age-adjusted rates [AARs] = 4.8–5.0) and Black Texans (AARs = 5.0–8.1) experienced significantly higher AARs compared with males and White Texans during the year of and after Harvey. During the year of Hurricane Harvey, females were 1.49 times as likely to have an inpatient asthma visit compared with males, while Black Texans were 2.78 times as likely to have an inpatient asthma hospitalization compared with White Texans.

Conclusions

Findings from this study may assist public health professionals and local officials to allocate future resources to the most impacted subgroups as well as establish effective processes to mitigate consequences.
Nutritional and feeding challenges in aerodigestive patients
Authors: Chen Charles B.
Published: July 2023

Purpose of review

Aerodigestive disorders encompass conditions that affect both the airway and gastrointestinal tract. These include conditions such as acquired and congenital defects of the airway and esophagus as well as neuromuscular disorders. Patients often suffer from dysphagia, aspiration, and respiratory disorders. This article will provide a review of current practices in the management of feeding disorders, oropharyngeal dysphagia, and nutritional support in the aerodigestive population.

Recent findings

Oral aversion, aspiration, and feeding-tube dependence are all commonly encountered problems in the aerodigestive population. Intensive inpatient and outpatient programs along with use of appetite stimulants and psychotropic medications may help to improve feeding-related disorders. Aspiration affects many patients and requires close monitoring of clinical symptoms along with routine assessment with video fluoroscopy. Developments in blenderized feeds and formula supplementation have also provided new options for patients with feeding intolerance.

Patients with aerodigestive disorders require complex medical care, and multidisciplinary teams are the most effective in addressing their medical needs. Advances in feeding, occupational, and pharmacologic therapy have allowed healthcare providers to better address the needs of these patients.
Screening for mental health problems in childhood cancer survivorship: a systematic review
Authors: Holmer Pauline , Bolliger Céline , Vokinger Anna Katharina , Dyntar Daniela , Michel Gisela
Published: July 2023

Many survivors of childhood cancer suffer from psychological late effects. Therefore, regular psychological screening is strongly advised. Experts recommend screening for mental disorders and symptoms for all survivors at every follow-up visit, regardless of age. However, there is little practical guidance on screening for mental health problems in childhood cancer survivorship care. The aims of this systematic review were to (a) collect comprehensive information on available screening tools, (b) determine which health care professionals performed the screening, and (c) identify practical considerations regarding the timing of screening. The databases PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL were systematically searched for peer-reviewed publications concerning childhood cancer, mental health problems, survivorship, and screening published between January 1990 and January 2023. The search yielded 2268 potentially relevant articles, of which 32 were included in the narrative synthesis. We found that (a) many suitable screening tools are available for the target population, of which the Distress Thermometer, Brief Symptom Inventory-18, Symptom Checklist-90, and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory were the most commonly used in all studies; (b) professionals of different disciplines were involved in screening, and examples include clinical nurse specialists and psychologists; and (c) early onset, regular, and long-term screening are recommended if resources are available. In conclusion, selecting a screening tool in a clinical setting depends on various factors such as time and cost. However, many brief screening tools can be easily implemented without a large investment of resources. Furthermore, professionals from various disciplines can perform the screening. If they have no background in psychology, training is recommended to give them confidence in dealing with mental health issues. In conclusion, consistent and regular mental health screening is crucial for childhood cancer survivors, and we believe that the benefits outweigh the costs.
Reconstruction of Finger Soft Tissue Defects With a Thinned Free Anterolateral Thigh Flap
Authors: Sơn Trần Thiết , Việt Dung Phạm Thị , Nghĩa Phan Tuấn , Hồng Thúy Tạ Thị
Published: July 2023

Background

Reconstructing complex soft tissue defects of the finger requires both functional and aesthetic aspects. There are many free tissue transfers as suitable options for digital resurfacing. The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is not the first choice for reconstruction of this area because it has the disadvantage that the subcutaneous tissue is too thick; however, its use as a thinned form has yet to be described much. This study presents the flap thinning technique in the small-sized ALT flap for the finger soft tissue defect.

Method

From May 2009 to March 2018, 10 patients with complete circumferential or semicircumcision defects in the fingers underwent reconstructive procedures that included thinned ALT flap transfer. Finger soft tissue damage due to contusion trauma includes loss of skin and exposure of the bone and tendon. The flap is thinned in 2 different ways: peripheral thinning and total microsurgical thinning, which is selected based on the perforator vessel structure of the flap.

Result

The ALT flap sizes, averaging 4–9 cm wide and 6–12 cm long, were thinned to 4–7 mm. One perforator was included in the flaps with a pedicle length average of 6.1 cm. The flaps survived entirely in all patients except one with a 30% area in the distal part of the thinned ALT flap that became necrotic because of venous occlusion. Donor sites were closed primarily for all patients. No patients required secondary flap defatting.

Conclusions

The small thinned ALT perforator flap can be an excellent option for full circumferential or semicircumferential soft tissue defects of the finger. Follow-up showed this as an excellent alternative for finger reconstruction in terms of aesthetic appearance and functional outcome.
The Innovation Press
Authors: Kirloskar Kunal M. , Haffner Zoë K. , Abadeer Andrew , Yosaitis John , Baker Stephen B. ,   MI2 Innovations
Published: July 2023

Three-dimensional (3D) printing continues to revolutionize the field of plastic surgery, allowing surgeons to adapt to the needs of individual patients and innovate, plan, or refine operative techniques. The utility of this manufacturing modality spans from surgical planning, medical education, and effective patient communication to tissue engineering and device prototyping and has valuable implications in every facet of plastic surgery. Three-dimensional printing is more accessible than ever to the surgical community, regardless of previous background in engineering or biotechnology. As such, the onus falls on the surgeon-innovator to have a functional understanding of the fundamental pipeline and processes in actualizing such innovation. We review the broad range of reported uses for 3D printing in plastic surgery, the process from conceptualization to production, and the considerations a physician must make when using 3D printing for clinical applications. We additionally discuss the role of computer-assisted design and manufacturing and virtual and augmented reality, as well as the ability to digitally modify devices using this software. Finally, a discussion of 3D printing logistics, printer types, and materials is included. With innovation and problem solving comprising key tenets of plastic surgery, 3D printing can be a vital tool in the surgeon's intellectual and digital arsenal to span the gap between concept and reality.
Impact of Dynamic Tongue Reconstruction on Sequential Changes of Swallowing Function in Patients Undergoing Total or Near-Total Glossectomy
Authors: Kim Young Chul , Woo Soo Hyun , Jeong Woo Shik , Oh Tae Suk , Choi Jong Woo
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the effects of motor-innervated free flap on sequential changes of swallowing function in patients undergoing total or near-total glossectomy with laryngeal preservation.

Materials and Methods

The medical charts of 21 patients who underwent tongue reconstruction after total or near-total glossectomy between April 2015 and December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into groups by reconstruction type: conventional, reconstruction using an anterolateral thigh free flap (n = 11), and dynamic, reconstruction using an anterolateral thigh with innervated vastus lateralis flap (n = 10). Demographics, surgical details, and survival outcomes were investigated. A videofluoroscopic penetration-aspiration scale and functional outcome swallowing scale were analyzed according to postoperative time courses, classified as within 6 months, 6 to 12 months, and after 12 months postoperative. A time-to-event analysis was performed for gastrostomy tube status.

Results

The dynamic group showed improved swallowing outcomes at 6 to 12 months postoperative (dynamic vs conventional group, penetration-aspiration scale: 3 ± 1.51 vs 6 ± 1.63, P = 0.024; functional outcome swallowing scale: 1.89 ± 1.36 vs 4 ± 1.41, P = 0.009). In the multivariate analysis, the dynamic group showed a decreased probability of decompensated swallowing function at 6 to 12 months postoperative (odds ratio, 0.062; 95% confidence interval, 0.004–1.084; P = 0.057). A time-to-event analysis revealed no significant difference in gastrostomy tube status between the dynamic and the conventional group.

Conclusions

Considering higher mortality in patients subjected to total or near-total glossectomy, dynamic reconstruction with motor-innervated free flap is worth to perform in terms of enhancing the swallowing function within 1-year postoperative period, thereby improving the quality of life.
Wide Awake Trigger Finger Releases Performed in the United States
Authors: Mookerjee Vikram G. , Kammien Alexander J. , Prsic Adnan , Grauer Jonathan N. , Colen David L.
Published: July 2023

Background

Trigger finger release (TFR) has traditionally been performed in outpatient operating rooms. More recently, TFR may be performed in the office setting to achieve greater efficiency and cost savings.

Methods

The 2010–2020 Q2 PearlDiver M91Ortho data set was analyzed for cases of TFR. Exclusion criteria were age less than 18 years, <30 days of postoperative records, concomitant hand surgery, monitored anesthesia use, and inpatient surgery. Age, sex, and Elixhauser comorbidity index were recorded. Operating room and office procedures were matched 4:1 based on patient characteristics. Total and physician reimbursement for the day of surgery, as well as 30-day narcotics prescriptions, emergency department (ED) visits, and surgical site infections (SSI) were determined.

Results

Before matching, TFRs were found to be increasingly performed in the office (from 7.9% in 2010 to 14.6% in 2020). Matched cohorts consisted of 63,951 operating room and 15,992 office procedures. Office procedures had lower mean total reimbursements ($435 vs $752,P< 0.001), slightly lower mean physician reimbursements ($420 vs $460,P< 0.001), and lower rates of narcotic prescriptions (30.5% vs 50.5%,P< 0.001) and 30-day ED visits (2.2% vs 2.9%,P< 0.05). There was no difference in 30-day SSI (0.5% vs 0.6%,P= 0.374).

Conclusions

In-office TFR is becoming increasingly prevalent. After matching, in-office TFRs were associated with lesser costs to the system, lower narcotic prescriptions, and fewer postoperative ED visits, without increased SSI. Although it is important to perform procedures in the best location for the patient, physician, and system, the current study supports the increased value offered by in-office TFR.
Asticcacaulis aquaticus sp. nov., Asticcacaulis currens sp. nov. and Asticcacaulis machinosus sp. nov., isolated from streams in PR China
Authors: Lu Huibin , Chen Li , Kong Lingyang , Huang Linpei , Chen Guangjie
Published: July 2023

Three Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, rod-shaped, stalked and motile strains with a polar flagellum (BYS171WT, DXS10WT and LKC15WT) were isolated from streams in PR China. Comparisons based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strains BYS171WT and DXS10WT had the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities (98.1 and 98.6 %, respectively) to

Asticcacaulis excentricus

CB 48T, and strain LKC15WT showed 99.6 % similarity to

Asticcacaulis endophyticus

ZFGT-14T. These three strains showed 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities of less than 96.9 % to other species of the genus

Asticcacaulis

. A phylogenetic tree reconstructed based on 16S rRNA gene sequences also showed that strains BYS171WT and DXS10WT took

A. excentricus

CB 48T as their closest neighbour, and strain LKC15WT formed a tight cluster with

A. endophyticus

ZFGT-14T. The phylogenomic tree also showed that these three strains belong to the genus

Asticcacaulis

and form a distinct clade with the species of the genus

Asticcacaulis

. The major cellular fatty acids of these three strains were summed feature 3 (C16 : 1
 ω7c and/or C16 : 1
 ω6c), summed feature 8 (C18 : 1
 ω7c and/or C18 : 1
 ω6c), C16 : 0 and 11-methyl C18 : 1
 ω7c. Their polar lipids mainly consisted of phosphatidylglycerol, unidentified glycolipids and nitrogen-containing phosphoglycolipids. The calculated OrthoANIu and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values among strains BYS171WT, DXS10WT, LKC15WT and other related strains were less than 87.2 % and 34.0 %, respectively, indicating that these three strains should represent three independent novel species of the genus

Asticcacaulis

, for which the names Asticcacaulis aquaticus sp. nov. (type strain BYS171WT=GDMCC 1.3226T=KCTC 92612T), Asticcacaulis currens sp. nov. (type strain DXS10WT=GDMCC 1.3224T=KCTC 92543T) and Asticcacaulis machinosus sp. nov. (type strain LKC15WT=GDMCC 1.3225T=KCTC 92544T) are proposed.
Interactions between the representations of pain and reward suggest dynamic shifts in reference point
Authors: Hoskin R , Pernet C , Talmi D
Published: July 2023

With an aim to understand how brains compute the expected utility of mixed prospects, namely those associated with both negative and positive attributes, we designed a task which equated the opportunity to learn about these attributes and their hedonic value. Participants underwent fMRI scanning while they experienced a classical conditioning paradigm where emotionally-neutral faces predicted a probability of pain and reward conforming to a 2 (Electric Pain: high, low) x 2 (Monetary Reward: high, low) factorial design. We found a robust interaction between the anticipation of pain and reward in the BOLD signal. Analysis of simple effects revealed that sensitivity to each attribute increased under high levels of the other attribute. In the bilateral insula and mid-cingulate gyrus sensitivity to pain was greater under high reward, and in the OFC, caudate, ventral striatum and VTA sensitivity to reward was greater under high pain. We speculate that this pattern is due to dynamic shifts in the reference point participants considered to evaluate each attribute.
Cortical Responses Time-Locked to Continuous Speech in the High-Gamma Band Depend on Selective Attention
Authors: Commuri Vrishab , Kulasingham Joshua P. , Simon Jonathan Z.
Published: July 2023

Auditory cortical responses to speech obtained by magnetoencephalography (MEG) show robust speech tracking to the speaker’s fundamental frequency in the high-gamma band (70-200 Hz), but little is currently known about whether such responses depend on the focus of selective attention. In this study 22 human subjects listened to concurrent, fixed-rate, speech from male and female speakers, and were asked to selectively attend to one speaker at a time, while their neural responses were recorded with MEG. The male speaker’s pitch range coincided with the lower range of the high-gamma band, whereas the female speaker’s higher pitch range had much less overlap, and only at the upper end of the high-gamma band. Neural responses were analyzed using the temporal response function (TRF) framework. As expected, the responses demonstrate robust speech tracking of the fundamental frequency in the high-gamma band, but only to the male’s speech, with a peak latency of approximately 40 ms. Critically, the response magnitude depends on selective attention: the response to the male speech is significantly greater when male speech is attended than when it is not attended, under acoustically identical conditions. This is a clear demonstration that even very early cortical auditory responses are influenced by top-down, cognitive, neural processing mechanisms.
Higher general intelligence is linked to stable, efficient, and typical dynamic functional brain connectivity patterns
Authors: Ng Justin , Yu Ju-Chi , Feusner Jamie D. , Hawco Colin
Published: July 2023

General intelligence, referred to as g, is hypothesized to emerge from the capacity to dynamically and adaptively reorganize macroscale brain connectivity. Temporal reconfiguration can be assessed using dynamic functional connectivity (dFC), which captures the propensity of brain connectivity to transition between a recurring repertoire of distinct states. Conventional dFC metrics commonly focus on categorical state switching frequencies which do not fully assess individual variation in continuous connectivity reconfiguration. Here, we supplement frequency measures by quantifying within-state connectivity consistency, dissimilarity between connectivity across states, and conformity of individual connectivity to group-average state connectivity. We utilized resting-state fMRI data from the large-scale Human Connectome Project and applied data-driven multivariate Partial Least Squares Correlation to explore emergent associations between dynamic network properties and cognitive ability. Our findings reveal a positive association between g and the stable maintenance of states characterized by distinct connectivity between higher-order networks, efficient reconfiguration (i.e., minimal connectivity changes during transitions between similar states, large connectivity changes between dissimilar states), and ability to sustain connectivity close to group-average state connectivity. This hints at fundamental properties of brain-behavior organization, suggesting that general cognitive processing capacity is supported by the ability to efficiently reconfigure between stable and population-typical connectivity patterns.

Impact Statement

Novel evidence for an association between the stability, efficiency, and typicality of macro-scale dynamic functional connectivity patterns of the brain and higher general intelligence.
Interhemispheric inhibition between dorsal premotor and primary motor cortices is released during preparation of unimanual but not bimanual movements
Authors: Denyer Ronan , Greeley Brian , Greenhouse Ian , Boyd Lara A.
Published: July 2023

Previous research applying transcranial magnetic stimulation during unimanual reaction time tasks indicates a transient change in the inhibitory influence of dorsal premotor cortex over contralateral primary motor cortex shortly after the presentation of an imperative stimulus. Interhemispheric inhibition from the dorsal premotor cortex to the contralateral primary motor cortex shifts depending on whether the targeted effector representation in the primary motor cortex is selected for movement. Further, the timing of changes in inhibition covaries with the selection demands of the reaction time task. Less is known about modulation of dorsal premotor to primary motor cortex interhemispheric inhibition during the preparation of bimanual movements. In this study, we used a dual coil transcranial magnetic stimulation to measure dorsal premotor to primary motor cortex interhemispheric inhibition between both hemispheres during unimanual and bimanual simple reaction time trials. Interhemispheric inhibition was measured early and late in the “pre-movement period” (defined as the period immediately after the onset of the imperative stimulus and before the beginning of voluntary muscle activity). We discovered that interhemispheric inhibition was more facilitatory early in the pre-movement period compared to late in the pre-movement period during unimanual reaction time trials. In contrast, interhemispheric inhibition was unchanged throughout the pre-movement period during symmetrical bimanual reaction time trials. These results suggest that there is greater interaction between the dorsal premotor cortex and contralateral primary motor cortex during preparation of unimanual actions compared to bimanual actions.
Human and chimpanzee-similar primates have distinct language gene polymorphism patterns
Authors: Xia Wei , Zhang Zhizhou
Published: July 2023

The difference in language gene polymorphism pattern (LGPP) between human and other primates may help to provide novel useful knowledge for language learning. One of important findings from many years’ worldwide research is that the primates like chimpanzee cannot easily recognize language grammars (even words). In this study, 189 SNPs (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) in 13 language genes were scanned in 29 whole genomes from different human and primates populations. The 19 distinct SNPs in primates genomes were pointed out in several language genes including TPK1 that correlates with human’s syntactic and lexical ability. PCA analysis found that LGPPs for primates were highly aggregated together but they are distant from human’s LGPPs; representative human samples displayed high dispersion levels from each other in the context of LGPP. The above results may highlight a possibility that the LGPP should have more intermediate forms between human and chimpanzee-like primates.
Ethanol Drives Evolution of Hsp90-Dependent Robustness by Redundancy in Yeast Domestication
Authors: Patel Dipak , Amiji Hatim , Shropshire William , Condic Natalia , Lermi Nejla Ozirmak , Sabha Youssef , John Beryl , Hanson Blake , Karras Georgios Ioannis
Published: July 2023

Protein folding promotes and constrains adaptive evolution. We uncover this surprising duality in the role the protein-folding chaperone Hsp90 plays in mediating the interplay between proteome and the genome which acts to maintain the integrity of yeast metabolism in the face of proteotoxic stressors in anthropic niches. Of great industrial relevance, ethanol concentrations generated by fermentation in the making of beer and bread disrupt critical Hsp90-dependent nodes of metabolism and exert strong selective pressure for increased copy number of key genes encoding components of these nodes, yielding the classical genetic signatures of beer and bread domestication. This work establishes a mechanism of adaptive canalization in an ecology of major economic significance and highlights Hsp90-contingent variation as an important source of phantom heritability in complex traits.