bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Packing-based branch-and-bound for discrete malleable task scheduling
Authors: Braune Roland
Published: September 2022

This paper addresses the problem of scheduling chain-like structures of tasks on a single multiprocessor resource. In fact, sub-tasks of unit-time length and predefined size are aggregated to composite tasks that have to be scheduled without preemption, but subject to flexibility concerning resource allocation. This setting most closely resembles the problem of malleable task scheduling, with sub-tasks being the smallest atomic unit of allocation. The specific type of malleability is realized using precedence constraints with minimum and maximum time lags. A bin packing model is established for this scheduling problem and a corresponding, dedicated branch-and-bound algorithm is devised, alongside problem-specific bound tightening, symmetry breaking and dominance concepts. The efficacy of the solution approach is demonstrated based on extensive computational experiments, including randomized instances, adapted benchmark instances from the literature, and a small real-world data set. In comparison to mixed-integer and constraint programming formulations, the new method is able to achieve a considerably higher percentage of optimal solutions at computation times that are up to orders of magnitude smaller.
Pyramiding wheat pre-harvest sprouting resistance genes in triticale breeding
Authors: Moullet Odile , Díaz Bermúdez Gemma , Fossati Dario , Brabant Cécile , Mascher Fabio , Schori Arnold
Published: September 2022

Pre -harvest sprouting (PHS) is an important problem in cereal production reducing yield and grain quality. After decades of improvement, triticale remains particularly susceptible to PHS but no resistance genes or QTLs were identified so far in this species. As wheat shares the A and B genomes with triticale, wheat PHS resistance genes can be introgressed into triticale genome by recombination after interspecific crosses. In this project, three PHS resistance genes have been transferred from wheat to triticale by marker-assisted interspecific crosses, followed by four backcrosses. The geneTaPHS1from the 3AS chromosome of cultivar Zenkoujikomugi (Zen) and theTaMKK3andTaQsd1, respectively located on the 4AL and 5BL chromosomes derived both from cultivar Aus1408, were pyramided in the triticale cultivar Cosinus. Only theTaPHS1gene increases consistently the PHS resistance in triticale. The lack of efficacy of the other two genes, especiallyTaQsd1, could be the result of an imperfect linkage between the marker and the gene of interest. The introduction of PHS resistance genes did not alter agronomic nor disease resistance performances of triticale. This approach leads to two new, agronomically performant and PHS-resistant triticale cultivars. Today, two breeding triticale lines are ready to enter the official registration process.
A Role for Visual Memory in Vocabulary Development: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pickering Hayley E. , Peters Jessica L. , Crewther Sheila G.
Published: September 2022

Although attention and early associative learning in preverbal children is predominantly driven by rapid eye-movements in response to moving visual stimuli and sounds/words (e.g., associating the word “bottle” with the object), the literature examining the role of visual attention and memory in ongoing vocabulary development across childhood is limited. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis examined the association between visual memory and vocabulary development, including moderators such as age and task selection, in neurotypical children aged 2-to-12 years, from the brain-based perspective of cognitive neuroscience. Visual memory tasks were classified according to the visual characteristics of the stimuli and the neural networks known to preferentially process such information, including consideration of the distinction between the ventral visual stream (processing more static visuo-perceptual details, such as form or colour) and the more dynamic dorsal visual stream (processing spatial temporal action-driven information). Final classifications included spatio-temporal span tasks, visuo-perceptual or spatial concurrent array tasks, and executive judgment tasks. Visuo-perceptual concurrent array tasks, reliant on ventral stream processing, were moderately associated with vocabulary, while tasks measuring spatio-temporal spans, associated with dorsal stream processing, and executive judgment tasks (central executive), showed only weak correlations with vocabulary. These findings have important implications for health professionals and researchers interested in language, as they advocate for the development of more targeted language learning interventions that include specific and relevant aspects of visual processing and memory, such as ventral stream visuo-perceptual details (i.e., shape or colour).
Disagreement and inconsistency: a problem for orthodox expressivism
Authors: Eriksson John
Published: September 2022

What makes two sentences inconsistent? Expressivists understand the meaning of a sentence in terms of the mental state it expresses. In order to explain the inconsistency between two sentences, the expressivist must appeal to some inconsistency feature of the mental states expressed. A simple explanation is that two sentences, e.g., “murder is wrong” and “murder is not wrong” are inconsistent by virtue of expressing mental states that disagree. Schroeder (2008) argues that the expressivist lacks a plausible explanation of the disagreement. Baker & Woods (2015) argue that Schroeder is wrong. With these authors, I agree that expressivists have an explanation of disagreement, but this does not adequately explain why two sentences are inconsistent. The reason is that two intuitively inconsistent sentences do not necessarily express mental states that disagree. Moreover, assuming that the expressivist gives a structurally identical explanation for moral and non-moral language, the problem generalizes to non-moral language. It is also argued that the problem extends to thought. How expressivists can and should conceive of inconsistency thus remains a challenge.
Prevention of Hepatitis B Reactivation in Patients Receiving Immunosuppressive Therapy: a Case Series and Appraisal of Society Guidelines
Authors: Etienne Samuel , Vosbeck Jürg , Bernsmeier Christine , Osthoff Michael
Published: September 2022

Hepatitis B (HBV) reactivation (HBVr) is a potentially fatal complication in patients with past HBV exposure receiving immunosuppressive therapy. HBVr can occur in patients with chronic HBV infection as well as in patients with resolved HBV infection. In this article, we present the cases of four patients with resolved hepatitis B who presented with HBVr during or after immunosuppressive treatment, of whom two died as a consequence of HBVr. We then reflect on and summarize the recommendations of four major societies for the screening and management of previously HBV-exposed patients planned to receive immunosuppressive treatment. Current guidelines recommend screening for HBV in all patients planned to receive immunosuppressive therapy. Risk of HBVr is assessed based on the serological status of the patient and the planned immunosuppressive drug regimen. For patients considered to be at low risk of HBVr, management consists of serological monitoring for HBVr and immediate preemptive antiviral therapy in the case of HBVr. For patients considered to be at intermediate or high risk for HBVr, antiviral prophylaxis should be initiated concordantly with the immunosuppressive therapy and continued for up to 18 months after cessation of the immunosuppressive regimen. Areas of uncertainty include the risk of novel and emerging immunosuppressive and immune modulatory drugs and the exact duration of antiviral prophylaxis. Greater awareness is needed among clinicians regarding the risk of HBVr in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy, especially in low-endemicity settings. Implementation of screening and management programs and decision support tools based on the presented guidelines may improve the management of these patients.
Endoscopic Kehr’s T-Tube Placement to Treat Persistent Large Gastro-cutaneous Fistula After One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass: Video Demonstration
Authors: Liagre Arnaud , Queralto Michel , Combis Jean Marc , Peireira Paulo , Buchwald Jane N. , Martini Francesco , Petrucciani Niccolo
Published: September 2022

Background

We aim to show the endoscopic placement of a T-tube to treat a persistent large gastro-cutaneous fistula after OAGB.

Methods

We present the case of a 46-year-old woman with BMI of 48 kg/m2, who underwent OAGB and was re-operated on the 2nd postoperative day (POD) for leakage. Washing and drainage of the abdominal cavity was performed, and no fistulous orifice was identified. An upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy was performed at POD 20 for the persistence of leakage of 150 ml/day by the drain and a gastric fistulous orifice of 2 cm was detected.

Results

At POD 22, under general anesthesia, upper GI endoscopy was performed and a T-tube was placed in the fistulous orifice with a “rendez-vous” technique (as demonstrated in the Video), placing the T branch in the digestive lumen pressed against the wall and the long part of the T exiting at the cutaneous orifice. The T-tube was clamped after 3 days and the patient could be gradually re-fed. The patient was discharged 8 days after the procedure, with perfect clinical tolerance and no complications. The ablation of the tube one was performed on POD 84. No relapse occurred during a follow-up of 48 months.

Conclusion

Persistent large gastro-cutaneous fistulas with an orifice bigger than 1 cm in diameter are difficult to manage. The endoscopic placement of a T-tube seems a useful option, which may facilitate the healing of the fistula. Further studies are needed to better define the role of this procedure.
Spatial variations and trend analysis of groundwater salinity along coastal aquifers of Mundra-Kachchh over a decade—using thematic maps and GIS mapping
Authors: Shah Yash , Bhimani Sazina , Thacker Hemashri , Borah Akshay Jyoti , Jadeja Yogendrasinh , Thakkar Mahesh , Chauhan Gaurav , Kothyari Girish Ch , Taloor Ajay Kumar
Published: September 2022

Water is one of the most basic entities, especially in semiarid regions where low precipitation and limited surface water resources bring more emphasis on the use of groundwater leading to endangering and overexploitation. Therefore, quantity with monitoring of groundwater quality at regular intervals becomes of utmost importance for understanding its suitability for drinking and irrigation. This study aims in understanding spatial variations and their trend in terms of quality over a decade (2010–2020) using different hydrochemical parameters in the vicinity of the coastal tracts of the Mundra block. Samples were analyzed for TDS, pH, EC, TH, major cations, and anions. Drinking suitability was identified by correlating parameters with WHO, BIS standards and by preparing WQI maps. Irrigational suitability was found by SAR, RSC, KI, Na %, MH, and PI. Reduced water level (RWL) values represented a further increase in the reversal flow of groundwater in a decade leading to an increment in salinity and seawater intrusion. The study area in most of the analysis is possessing much higher values above safer limits when compared to 2010 and 2020, making the water very much unacceptable for drinking and irrigation. The major cause in the area is overexploitation and unconditional deeper drilling, resulting in an increase in coastal salinity and seawater intrusion. The use of such water tends to harm agriculture, soil condition as well as human health.
Minds in the Metaverse: Extended Cognition Meets Mixed Reality
Authors: Smart Paul
Published: September 2022

Examples of extended cognition typically involve the use of technologically low-grade bio-external resources (e.g., the use of pen and paper to solve long multiplication problems). The present paper describes a putative case of extended cognizing based around a technologically advanced mixed reality device, namely, the Microsoft HoloLens. The case is evaluated from the standpoint of a mechanistic perspective. In particular, it is suggested that a combination of organismic (e.g., the human individual) and extra-organismic (e.g., the HoloLens) resources form part of a common mechanism that realizes a bona fide cognitive routine. In addition to demonstrating how the theoretical resources of neo-mechanical philosophy might be used to evaluate extended cognitive systems, the present paper illustrates one of the ways in which mixed reality devices, virtual objects (i.e., holograms), and online (Internet-accessible) computational routines might be incorporated into human cognitive processes. This, it is suggested, speaks to the recent interest in mixed/virtual reality technologies across a number of disciplines. It also introduces us to issues that cross-cut disparate fields of philosophical research, such as the philosophy of science and the philosophy of technology.
Managing the Costs of Routine Follow-up Care After Living Kidney Donation: a Review and Survey of Contemporary Experience, Practices, and Challenges
Authors: Lentine Krista L. , Sarabu Nagaraju , McNatt Gwen , Howey Robert , Hays Rebecca , Thomas Christie P. , Lebron-Banks Ursula , Ohler Linda , Wooley Cody , Wisniewski Addie , Xiao Huiling , Tietjen Andrea
Published: September 2022

Purpose of Review

While living organ donor follow-up is mandated for 2 years in the USA, formal guidance on recovering associated costs of follow-up care is lacking. In this review, we discuss current billing practices of transplant programs for living kidney donor follow-up, and propose future directions for managing follow-up costs and supporting cost neutrality in donor care.

Recent Findings

Living donors may incur costs and financial risks in the donation process, including travel, lost time from work, and dependent care. In addition, adherence to the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) mandate for US transplant programs to submit 6-, 12-, and 24-month postdonation follow-up data to the national registry may incur out-of-pocket medical costs for donors. Notably, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has explicitly disallowed transplant programs to bill routine, mandated follow-up costs to the organ acquisition cost center or to the recipient’s Medicare insurance. We conducted a survey of transplant staff in the USA (distributed October 22, 2020–March 15, 2021), which identified that the mechanisms for recovering or covering the costs of mandated routine postdonation follow-up at responding programs commonly include billing recipients’ private insurance (40%), while 41% bill recipients’ Medicare insurance. Many programs reported utilizing institutional allowancing (up to 50%), and some programs billed the organ acquisition cost center (25%). A small percentage (11%) reported billing donors or donors’ insurance.

To maintain a high level of adherence to living donor follow-up without financially burdening donors, up-to-date resources are needed on handling routine donor follow-up costs in ways that are policy-compliant and effective for donors and programs. Development of a government-supported national living donor follow-up registry like the Living Donor Collective may provide solutions for aspects of postdonation follow-up, but requires transplant program commitment to register donors and donor candidates as well as donor engagement with follow-up outreach contacts after donation.
A study of sparse representation-based classification for biometric verification based on both handcrafted and deep learning features
Authors: Huang Zengxi , Wang Jie , Wang Xiaoming , Song Xiaoning , Chen Mingjin
Published: September 2022

Biometric verification is generally considered a one-to-one matching task. In contrast, in this paper, we argue that the one-to-many competitive matching via sparse representation-based classification (SRC) can bring enhanced verification security and accuracy. SRC-based verification introduces non-target subjects to construct dynamic dictionary together with the client claimed and encodes the submitted feature. Owing to the sparsity constraint, a client can only be accepted when it defeats almost all non-target classes and wins a convincing sparsity-based matching score. This will make the verification more secure than those using one-to-one matching. However, intense competition may also lead to extremely inferior genuine scores when data degeneration occurs. Motivated by the latent benefits and concerns, we study SRC-based verification using two sparsity-based matching measures, three biometric modalities (i.e., face, palmprint, and ear) and their multimodal combinations based on both handcrafted and deep learning features. We finally approach a comprehensive study of SRC-based verification, including its methodology, characteristics, merits, challenges and the directions to resolve. Extensive experimental results demonstrate the superiority of SRC-based verification, especially when using multimodal fusion and advanced deep learning features. The concerns about its efficiency in large-scale user applications can be readily solved using a simple dictionary shrinkage strategy based on cluster analysis and random selection of non-target subjects.
Spontaneous imbibition characteristics of shale oil reservoir under the influence of osmosis
Authors: Su Yuliang , Sun Qinghao , Wang Wendong , Guo Xincheng , Xu Jilong , Li Guanqun , Pu Xiugang , Han Wenzhong , Shi Zhannan
Published: September 2022

The spontaneous imbibition (SI) process in shale oil reservoirs is not only influenced by capillary force, but also by the osmotic pressure between the fracturing fluid and formation water in the nanopores media. In this study, experimental methods are used to investigate the mechanisms of osmosis in the SI, taking into account the presence of initial formation water in shale oil reservoirs. To investigate the effect of osmosis, SI experiments were performed on the fine-grained felsic shale of the Qikou sag of Dagang oilfield. Low-field NMR testers and high-precision electronic balances are utilized for the measuring of oil–water migration. The results show that, when Sw ≠ 0, high-salinity fluid SI can be divided into four stages: initial imbibition stage, drainage stage, secondary imbibition stage and stationary stage; when Sw = 0, there is no drainage stage of high-salinity fluid SI; when Sw ≠ 0 or Sw = 0, low-salinity fluid SI can be called the “osmosis-enhanced SI”; and we have found that “newly formed pores or microfractures” as well as reducing salinity can promote SI. This article presents a systematic study of SI of shale oil reservoirs under the influence of osmosis, which provide useful information for reservoir numerical simulation and development program design.
Nonlinear generalized thermoelasticity: theory and application
Authors: Youssef Hamdy M. , Abbas Ibrahim A.
Published: September 2022

In this work, the hypothesis of nonlinear thermoelasticity has been arranged for anisotropic thermoelastic materials to analyze the thermal effect caused by mechanical deformation. The stress–strain equation to be nonlinear form is more important than the non-linearity in the geometrical structure. A common and fundamental formalization of the energy equilibrium to enclose the execution has been revolved. The governing equations of the nonlinear thermoelasticity model with one relaxation time have been constructed and solved for an isotropic one-dimensional thermoelastic and homogeneous half-space. This new model nonlinear thermoelasticity with one relaxation time generates thermal and mechanical waves propagating with finite speeds.
Penile and Scrotal Skin Measurements to Predict Final Vaginal Depth With Penile Inversion Vaginoplasty
Authors: Smith Shannon M. , Yuan Nance , Stelmar Jenna , Zaliznyak Michael , Lee Grace , Bresee Catherine , Garcia Maurice M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

No nomogram exists to predict maximum achievable neovaginal depth before penile inversion vaginoplasty (PIV) based on available penile & scrotal skin (SS). Maximal depth is important to patients and is determined by available skin and available anatomic space within the pelvis and varies with surgical technique.

Aim

We endeavored to create a nomogram to predict expected postoperative vaginal depth.

Methods

Retrospective review of all patients undergoing primary PIV at a single institution from June 2017 to February 2020 (n = 60). Pre-op: Dorsal penile and midline scrotal skin length were measured. Intra-op: Tubularized scrotal skin length measured on a dilator. Immediate post-op: Final vaginal depth measured with a dilator.

Outcomes

The amount of available penile and scrotal skin was not associated with vaginal depth. The only variable that did significantly increase depth was the use of penile + scrotal skin, as compared to penile skin alone. (P < .001)

Results

In patients who underwent PIV-SS, the final vaginal depth (13.3 ± 1.9 cm) was 87% of pre-op measured penile skin length (15.3 ±- 3.0 cm). In patients who underwent PIV+SS, pre-op penile skin length was 11.1 ± 4.7±cm and pre-op midline scrotal length was 22.8 ± 2.6 cm. with a final post-op vaginal canal depth of 15.2 ± 1.3 cm. In 45/46 (98%) surgeries utilizing SS grafts, SS tube length exceeded the length necessary to achieve maximal vaginal depth, and required trimming and discard. Given that in most cases there was an excess of SS, final post-op depth equaled the maximal vaginal depth that could be surgically dissected, and was not limited by the amount of available skin.

Clinical Implications

Our findings suggest that for most patients it should not be necessary to include additional tissue sources (eg, peritoneum) to create a vaginal canal during primary vaginoplasty.

Strengths and Limitations

Any penile skin that was discarded due to poor quality (eg, tight phimosis, poor viability) was not measured and accounted for. This likely resulted in a slight overestimation of the contribution of the penile skin to the final vaginal depth, but did not change the overall finding that final depth was not limited by available skin.

Conclusion

SS grafts, when harvested and tubularized using optimized technique, supplied an excess of skin necessary to line a vaginal canal space of maximal achievable depth. We found that additional tissue sources can, instead, be reserved for future salvage surgery if it becomes necessary to augment depth.
Pathographies of Mental Illness
Authors: Carlin Nathan
Published: September 2022

This Element is a survey of the field of pathographies of mental illness. It explores classic texts in the field as well as other selected contemporary memoirs. In doing so, the reader is introduced to psychiatric information about various mental illnesses through a narrative lens, emphasizing experience. Because clinical research is evidenced-based and aims to produce generalizable knowledge (i.e., trends), the reading of pathographies can complement these findings with practical experiential insights. By pairing psychiatric information with pathographies, certain personal themes become apparent that are different from the empirical trends identified by scientific and medical researchers. Based on the survey presented here, this Element identifies seven such themes, laying the foundation for future research, inquiry, practice, and policy.
Nanoscale Hydrodynamics of Simple Systems
Authors: Hansen Jesper Schmidt
Published: September 2022

Written for graduate students and researchers, Nanoscale Hydrodynamics of Simple Systems covers fundamental aspects of nanoscale hydrodynamics and extends this basis to examples. Covering classical, generalised and extended hydrodynamic theories, the title also discusses their limitations. It introduces the reader to nanoscale fluid phenomena and explores how fluid dynamics on this extreme length scale can be understood using hydrodynamic theory and detailed atomistic simulations. It also comes with additional resources including a series of explanatory videos on the installation of the code package, as well as discussion, analysis and visualisations of simulations. This title primarily focusses on training the reader to identify when classical theory breaks down, how to extend and generalise the theory, as well as assimilate how simulations and theory together can be used to gain fundamental knowledge about the fluid dynamics of small-scale systems.
Legal Reasoning
Authors: Eisenberg Melvin A.
Published: September 2022

The common law, which is made by courts, consists of rules that govern relations between individuals, such as torts (the law of private wrongs) and contracts. Legal Reasoning explains and analyzes the modes of reasoning utilized by the courts in making and applying common law rules. These modes include reasoning from binding precedents (prior cases that are binding on the deciding court); reasoning from authoritative although not binding sources, such as leading treatises; reasoning from analogy; reasoning from propositions of morality, policy, and experience; making exceptions; drawing distinctions; and overruling. The book further examines and explains the roles of logic, deduction, and good judgment in legal reasoning. With accessible prose and full descriptions of illustrative cases, this book is a valuable resource for anyone who wishes to get a hands-on grasp of legal reasoning.
Principles of Data Assimilation
Authors: Park Seon Ki , Zupanski Milija
Published: September 2022

Data assimilation is theoretically founded on probability, statistics, control theory, information theory, linear algebra, and functional analysis. At the same time, data assimilation is a very practical subject, given its goal of estimating the posterior probability density function in realistic high-dimensional applications. This puts data assimilation at the intersection between the contrasting requirements of theory and practice. Based on over twenty years of teaching courses in data assimilation, Principles of Data Assimilation introduces a unique perspective that is firmly based on mathematical theories, but also acknowledges practical limitations of the theory. With the inclusion of numerous examples and practical case studies throughout, this new perspective will help students and researchers to competently interpret data assimilation results and to identify critical challenges of developing data assimilation algorithms. The benefit of information theory also introduces new pathways for further development, understanding, and improvement of data assimilation methods.
ON THE EUCLIDEAN ALGORITHM: RHYTHM WITHOUT RECURSION
Authors: MORRILL THOMAS
Published: September 2022

A modified form of Euclid’s algorithm has gained popularity among musical composers following Toussaint’s 2005 survey of so-called Euclidean rhythms in world music. We offer a method to easily calculate Euclid’s algorithm by hand as a modification of Bresenham’s line-drawing algorithm. Notably, this modified algorithm is a nonrecursive matrix construction, using only modular arithmetic and combinatorics. This construction does not outperform the traditional divide-with-remainder method; it is presented for combinatorial interest and ease of hand computation.
Consumption of low-calorie sweeteners: findings from the Campinas Nutrition and Health Survey
Authors: Fagundes Grilo Mariana , Marinho Duarte Larissa , Crispim Sandra Patricia , de Azevedo Barros Filho Antonio , Duran Ana Clara
Published: September 2022

We used data from the Campinas Health Survey (ISACamp 2014/15) and the Food Consumption and Nutritional Status Survey (ISACamp-Nutri 2015/16) to estimate the prevalence of the consumption of foods and beverages that contain low-calorie sweeteners (LCS) by individuals ≥ 10 years to estimate the dietary exposure of the population to high levels of LCS. We first estimated the prevalence of consuming LCS-containing foods and beverages and identified the top sources of LCS consumption. We then verified whether the prevalence of consumption varied according to individual-level characteristics or the presence of obesity and diabetes. Finally, we estimated the population dietary exposure to high levels of LCS and compared it with the acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels. Over 40 % of the study population consumed at least one LCS-containing food or beverage. Sweetened beverages, tabletop sweeteners and dairy beverages were the top contributors to the consumption of LCS. Among all age groups, education levels, and income levels, the consumption of LCS-containing foods and beverages ranged from 35 % to 55 %. The prevalence was only slightly greater among higher income 40–59-year-olds than among other income groups and was not higher among individuals with obesity or diabetes. Although dietary exposure to LCS did not exceed the ADI levels, we identified several limitations in our ability to measure exposure to high levels of LCS. Because of these challenges and the unclear evidence linking LCS to better health outcomes, the consumption of LCS-containing foods and beverages should be closely monitored.
The plasma of violence: Towards a preventive medicine for political evil
Authors: Austin Jonathan Luke
Published: September 2022

How do people know how – very practically speaking – to be violent? This article explores that question through a Science and Technology Studies perspective. It does so in order to go beyond the usual location of global political violence at a structural level that attributes its emergence principally to hierarchical orders, formal training, or deep cultural, political, or ideological factors. The alternative explanation offered here draws on Bruno Latour's concept of ‘plasma’ to sketch a theory of how practices of violence are embedded at a distributed ontological level through the historical accumulation of (popular) cultural, textual, technological, and other epistemic objects. In making that claim, I seek to stress how violent knowledge circulates outside the formal domains associated with it (the military, police) and is instead preconsciously accessible to each and every person. To support this argument, the article draws on empirical examples of the use of torture, including interviews conducted with Syrian perpetrators of torture, as well as by tracing the paradoxical entanglements between scientific practice and the practice of torture. I conclude by engaging the field of preventive medicine to speculate on the need to develop modes of violence prevention that appreciate political violence as a population-level sociopolitical problem.
Do follicle-stimulating hormone receptor polymorphisms in infertile men influence intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes? A prospective cohort study
Authors: Fakih Chadi , Raad Georges , Ghamloush Mona , Bazzi Marwa , Fakih Ibrahim , Safi Neemtallah , Costantine Claira , Mourad Youmna , Fakih Fadi
Published: September 2022

The follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and its receptor regulate the quantity and quality of spermatozoa production. Several studies have analyzed the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in exon 10 of the FSH receptor (FSHR) on basic semen parameters without yet reaching a firm consensus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of p.Thr307Ala and p.Asn680Ser polymorphisms in exon 10 of the FSHR gene, in infertile men, on intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes. This study was conducted between March 2019 and February 2020 on infertile couples undergoing ICSI at Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Center, Lebanon. Couples with severe infertility factors that may impair gametogenesis/embryogenesis (e.g. advanced maternal age, premature ovarian failure, underwent gonadotoxic treatments, etc.) were excluded from the study. Semen and blood samples were collected from infertile men on the day of oocyte collection. Infertile men (n = 173) were screened for FSHR variants using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Moreover, fertilization rates, embryo quality, and pregnancy outcomes were evaluated. Higher sperm concentrations were found in the p.Thr307Ala group than the p.Thr307Thr (P < 0.01) and p.Ala307Ala (P < 0.05) groups. Furthermore, fertilization rate was significantly lower in the p.Ala307Ala genotype than in the p.Thr307Thr genotype (P < 0.05). We showed that FSHR variants in infertile men undergoing ICSI could affect sperm concentration, motility, and fertilization rates. Therefore, it will be important to confirm these results in further studies using a larger sample size.
Task shifting from general practitioners to practice assistants and nurses in primary care: a cross-sectional survey in 34 countries
Authors: Groenewegen Peter , Boerma Wienke G.W. , Spreeuwenberg Peter , Seifert Bohumil , Schäfer Willemijn , Batenburg Ronald , van Tuyl Lilian
Published: September 2022

Aim:

To describe variation in task shifting from GPs to practice assistants/nurses in 34 countries and to explain differences by analysing associations with characteristics of the GPs and their practices and features of the health care systems.

Background:

Redistribution of tasks and responsibilities in primary care are driven by changes in demand, such as the growing number of patients with chronic conditions, and workforce developments, including staff shortage. The need to manage an expanding range of services has led to adaptations in the skill-mix of primary care teams. These developments are hampered by barriers between professional domains.

Methods:

Data were collected between 2011 and 2013 through a cross-sectional survey among approximately 7,200 general practitioners (GPs) in 34 countries. Task shifting is measured through a composite score of GPs’ self-reported shifting of tasks. Independent variables at GP and practice level are as follows: innovativeness; part-time working; availability of staff; location and population of the practice. Country-level independent variables are as follows: demand for and supply of care, nurse prescribing, and professionalisation of practice assistants/nurses. Multilevel analysis is used to account for clustering of GPs in countries.

Findings:

Countries vary in the degree of task shifting. Regarding GP and practice characteristics, use of electronic health records and availability of support staff in the practice are positively associated with task shifting and GPs’ working hours negatively, in line with our hypotheses. Age of the GPs is, contrary to our hypothesis, positively related to task shifting. These variables explain 11% of the variance at GP level. Two country variables are related to task shifting: a lower percentage of practices without support staff in a country and nurse prescribing rights coincide with more task shifting. The percentage of practices without support staff has the strongest relationship, explaining 73% of the country variation.
Intracranial pressure and veins
Authors: Stolz Erwin
Published: September 2022

Summary: This review summarizes the relationship between intracranial pressure and the venous system as far as ultrasound methods are concerned. Although the pressure in cortical veins is tightly and linearly coupled to the intracranial pressure, venous flow velocities in the basal veins are not. However, venous flow velocities reflect better the local cerebral blood flow than measurements in arteries. Therefore, they correlate better with clinical outcome in head trauma and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Transorbital sonography with measurement of the optic nerve sheath diameter and optic disk elevation has evolved to a valuable point of care diagnostic tool in idiopathic intracranial hypertension. In cerebral vein and sinus thrombosis ultrasound is at best a supplementary diagnostic tool, which may have a value in patient follow-up.
Peripheral artery disease and the risk of venous	thromboembolism
Authors: Sykora Daniel , Firth Christine , Girardo Marlene , Bhatt Shubhang , Tseng Andrew , Chamberlain Alanna , Liedl David , Wennberg Paul , Shamoun Fadi Elias
Published: September 2022

Summary: Background: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) impacts 3–12% of patients worldwide and is characterized by endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory pathways which are also common to venous thromboembolism (VTE), but there is a paucity of evidence regarding VTE risk in PAD patients. We investigated whether PAD is an independent risk factor for VTE. Patients and methods: We reviewed medical records of patients undergoing ABI studies at Mayo Clinic from 01/1996-02/2020. We classified patients by ABI (low [<1.0], normal [1.0–1.4], or elevated [>1.4]), as well as by specific low ABI subgroup: severely reduced (ABI: 0.00–0.39), moderately reduced (0.40–0.69), mildly reduced (0.70–0.90), and borderline reduced (0.91–0.99). The primary outcome was incident VTE event (acute lower extremity deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) after ABI measurement. Multivariable Cox proportional regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) after adjusting for age, sex, active smoking, cancer, previous VTE, thrombophilia, anticoagulation, and revascularization. Results: 39,834 unique patients (mean age 66.3±14.3 years, median follow-up 34 months) were identified. 2,305 VTE events occurred in patients without PAD (13.0%), 2,218 in low ABI patients (13.0%), and 751 in elevated ABI patients (14.8%). After risk factor adjustment, VTE risk was modestly increased for PAD overall (HR: 1.12, 95% CI [1.06, 1.18]), including low ABI (HR: 1.11, 95% CI [1.04, 1.18]) and elevated ABI groups (HR: 1.15, 95% CI [1.04, 1.26]), compared to patients without PAD. The greatest VTE risk was in severely low ABI patients (HR: 1.46, 95% CI [1.31, 1.64]). Conclusions: In a large longitudinal cohort, we present strong clinical evidence of PAD, with low and elevated ABI, as an independent VTE risk factor, with the highest risk seen in patients with severely low ABI. Continued research is required to further investigate this relationship and its intersection with functional performance status to optimize VTE risk reduction or anticoagulation strategies in the PAD population.
Investigating the Efficiency of Deep Learning Methods in Estimating GPS Geodetic Velocity
Authors: Sorkhabi Omid Memarian , Milani Muhammed , Seyed Alizadeh Seyed Mehdi
Published: September 2022

Geodetic velocity (GV) has many applications in tectonic motion determination and geodynamic studies. Due to the high cost of global navigation satellite system stations, deep learning methods have been investigated to estimate GV. In this research, four methods of convolutional neural networks (CNNs), deep Boltzmann machines, deep belief net and recurrent neural networks have been applied. The GV of 42 global positioning system stations is entered the deep learning methods. The outputs of the four methods have successfully passed the normality test. The results show that the CNN method has a lower goodness of fit and root mean square error (RMSE). CNN can learn different dependencies and extract features.
Observed Evidence That Subsidence Process Stabilizes the Boundary Layer and Increases the Ground Concentration of Secondary Pollutants
Authors: Shi Yu , Zeng Qingcun , Liu Lei , Huo Juntao , Zhang Zhe , Ding Weichen , Hu Fei
Published: September 2022

Subsidence in atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) appears to be rare and short‐lived, so it is very difficult to observe. In this paper, field experimental data from a large tethered balloon (1,900 m3) synchronously measuring meteorological parameters and air pollutants, a ground‐based aerosol lidar, a Doppler wind lidar, and some other ground observations were used to analyze the formation mechanism of subsidence and its influences on the variation of meteorological parameters and pollutant concentrations of the ABL. Results show that the occurrence of subsidence was closely correlated with the cold advection accompanied by cold front. Pollutants were horizontally transported to the observation site driven by southwest low‐level jet. Under the influence of subsidence behind the cold front and turbulent kinetic energy transported toward the surface, the vertical downward transport of pollutants aloft lasted for nearly 5 hr. The observation data of the tethered balloon suspending at 500 m show that the concentrations of PM2.5, NO3−, SO42−, and NH4+ increased simultaneously. O3 concentration in the lower atmosphere also increased. Subsidence had significant effects on the secondary inorganic aerosol concentrations but the concentration of organic aerosols was not affected. Subsidence led to a stronger inversion layer, further suppressing the vertical dispersion of pollutants. Both the stronger subsidence‐induced inversion layer and the downward transport of pollutants have led to an increase in the ground PM2.5 concentration. Our findings demonstrate the close connection between subsidence and air pollution process and may provide the scientific reference for air quality potential forecast.
Preferential Formation of Chlorite Over Talc During Si‐Metasomatism of Ultramafic Rocks in Subduction Zones
Authors: Codillo E. A. , Klein F. , Marschall H. R.
Published: September 2022

Talc formation via silica‐metasomatism of ultramafic rocks is believed to play key roles in subduction zone processes. Yet, the conditions of talc formation remain poorly constrained. We used thermodynamic reaction‐path models to assess the formation of talc at the slab‐mantle interface and show that it is restricted to a limited set of pressure–temperature conditions, protolith, and fluid compositions. In contrast, our models predict that chlorite formation is ubiquitous at conditions relevant to the slab‐mantle interface of subduction zones. The scarcity of talc and abundance of chlorite is evident in the rock record of exhumed subduction zone terranes. Talc formation during Si‐metasomatism may thus play a more limited role in volatile cycling, strain localization, and in controlling the decoupling‐coupling transition of the plate interface. Conversely, the observed and predicted ubiquity of chlorite corroborates its prominent role in slab‐mantle interface processes that previous studies attributed to talc.
Shelf Ecosystems Along the U.S. Atlantic Coastal Plain Prior to and During the Paleocene‐Eocene Thermal Maximum: Insights Into the Stratigraphic Architecture
Authors: Doubrawa Monika , Stassen Peter , Robinson Marci M. , Babila Tali L. , Zachos James C. , Speijer Robert P.
Published: September 2022

The Paleocene‐Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) is the most pronounced global warming event of the early Paleogene related to atmospheric CO2 increases. It is characterized by negative δ18O and δ13C excursions recorded in sedimentary archives and a transient disruption of the marine biosphere. Sites from the U.S. Atlantic Coastal Plain show an additional small, but distinct δ13C excursion below the onset of the PETM, coined the “pre‐onset excursion” (POE), mimicking the PETM‐forced environmental perturbations. This study focuses on the South Dover Bridge core in Maryland, where the Paleocene‐Eocene transition is stratigraphically constrained by calcareous nannoplankton and stable isotope data, and in which the POE is well‐expressed. The site was situated in a middle neritic marine shelf setting near a major outflow of the paleo‐Potomac River system. We generated high‐resolution benthic foraminiferal assemblage, stable isotope, trace‐metal, grain‐size and clay mineralogy data. The resulting stratigraphic subdivision of this Paleocene‐Eocene transition is placed within a depth transect across the paleoshelf, highlighting that the PETM sequence is relatively expanded. The geochemical records provide detailed insights into the paleoenvironment, developing from a well‐oxygenated water column in latest Paleocene to a PETM‐ecosystem under severe biotic stress‐conditions, with shifts in food supply and temperature, and under dysoxic bottom waters in a more river‐dominated setting. Environmental changes started in the latest Paleocene and culminated atthe onset of the PETM, hinting to an intensifying trigger rather than to an instantaneous event at the Paleocene‐Eocene boundary toppling the global system.
Supporting and Advocating for Transgender and Gender Diverse Youth and Their Families Within the Sociopolitical Context of Widespread Discriminatory Legislation and Policies
Authors: Kuper Laura E. , Cooper M. Brett , Mooney Megan A.
Published: September 2022

Objective: The aims of this commentary are to: (a) provide an overview of the current sociopolitical context experienced by transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth and caregivers, (b) summarize the research that has been conducted about how the sociopolitical context impacts the mental health and wellbeing of TGD youth and caregivers, (c) discuss the clinical implications of these findings, and (d) identify steps mental health providers can take to be advocates for TGD youth and their families. Methods: Authors include a psychologist and adolescent medicine physician working within a multidisciplinary gender program for youth and a psychologist in independent practice who specializes in working with LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer) youth, especially TGD youth. Clinical implications and advocacy steps were informed by our synthesis of the research literature as well as our own experiences working within the field of TGD health. Results: TGD youth and families have identified a range of stressors and coping strategies associated with the sociopolitical climate. Existing guides to clinical practice with TGD people can be adapted to incorporate these findings. We propose a “menu” of advocacy steps for providers to consider. Conclusions: Awareness of the larger sociopolitical context is crucial to providing high quality care to TGD youth and their families. By participating in advocacy efforts, mental health providers can have a unique and meaningful impact on the social and structural factors that impact the mental health and wellbeing of this population. Ethical principles within the field of psychology highlight how advocacy efforts are an important component of practice.

Implications for Impact Statement

The health and wellbeing of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth and their families is negatively impacted by the discriminatory legislation and state and federal policies that have expanded over the past decade. In addition to supporting families engaging in advocacy, a number of avenues exist for mental health providers to engage in professional, organizational, community, media, and political based advocacy.
The updated role of exosomal proteins in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of cancer
Authors: Wang Xinyi , Huang Jing , Chen Wenjie , Li Genpeng , Li Zhihui , Lei Jianyong
Published: September 2022

Exosomes are vesicles encompassed by a lipid bilayer that are released by various living cells. Exosomal proteins are encapsulated within the membrane or embedded on the surface. As an important type of exosome cargo, exosomal proteins can reflect the physiological status of the parent cell and play an essential role in cell–cell communication. Exosomal proteins can regulate tumor development, including tumor-related immune regulation, microenvironment reconstruction, angiogenesis, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, metastasis, etc. The features of exosomal proteins can provide insight into exosome generation, targeting, and biological function and are potential sources of markers for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Here, we summarize the effects of exosomal proteins on cancer biology, the latest progress in the application of exosomal proteins in cancer diagnosis and prognosis, and the potential contribution of exosomal proteins in cancer therapeutics and vaccines.