julilili42/papers huggingface dataset:
Construction or updating? Event model processes during visual narrative comprehension
2024-02-15

Abstract The plot of a narrative is represented in the form of event models in working memory. Because only parts of the plot are actually presented and information is continually changing, comprehenders have to infer a good portion of a narrative and keep their mental representation updated. Research has identified two related processes (e.g., Gernsbacher, 1997): During model construction (shifting, laying a foundation) at large coherence breaks an event model is completely built anew. During model updating (mapping ) at smaller omissions, however, the current event model is preserved, and only changed parts are updated through inference processes. Thus far, reliably distinguishing those two processes in visual narratives like comics was difficult. We report a study ( N = 80) that aimed to map the differences between constructing and updating event models in visual narratives by combining measures from narrative comprehension and event cognition research and manipulating event structure. Participants watched short visual narratives designed to (not) contain event boundaries at larger coherence breaks and elicit inferences through small omissions, while we collected viewing time measures as well as event segmentation and comprehensibility data. Viewing time, segmentation, and comprehensibility data were in line with the assumption of two distinct comprehension processes. We thus found converging evidence across multiple measures for distinct model construction and updating processes in visual narratives.
Basic principles of artificial intelligence in dermatology explained using melanoma
2024-02-15

Summary The use of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to establish itself in the most diverse areas of medicine at an increasingly fast pace. Nevertheless, many healthcare professionals lack the basic technical understanding of how this technology works, which severely limits its application in clinical settings and research. Thus, we would like to discuss the functioning and classification of AI using melanoma as an example in this review to build an understanding of the technology behind AI. For this purpose, elaborate illustrations are used that quickly reveal the technology involved. Previous reviews tend to focus on the potential applications of AI, thereby missing the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter that is so important for clinical application. Malignant melanoma has become a significant burden for healthcare systems. If discovered early, a better prognosis can be expected, which is why skin cancer screening has become increasingly popular and is supported by health insurance. The number of experts remains finite, reducing their availability and leading to longer waiting times. Therefore, innovative ideas need to be implemented to provide the necessary care. Thus, machine learning offers the ability to recognize melanomas from images at a level comparable to experienced dermatologists under optimized conditions.
Coupled otolith and foraminifera oxygen and carbon stable isotopes evidence paleoceanographic changes and fish metabolic responses
2024-02-15

Abstract. Capturing the mechanisms leading to the local extirpation of a species in deep-time is a challenge. Combining stable oxygen and carbon isotopic analyses on benthic and planktonic foraminifera and the otoliths of pelagic and benthic fish species, we reveal here the paleoceanographic regime shifts changes that took place in the Eastern Mediterranean from 7.2 to 6.5 Ma, in the precursor phase to the Messinian Salinity Crisis, and discuss the fishes’ response to these events. The step-wise restriction of the Mediterranean–Atlantic gateway impacted the Mediterranean fishes’ metabolisms, particularly those dwelling in the sea bottom. An important shift in the Mediterranean paleoceanographic conditions took place between 6.951 and 6.882 Ma, from predominantly temperature to salinity control, which was probably related to stratification of the water column. A regime shift at 6.814 Ma due to change in the influx amount, source and/or preservation of organic matter led a pelagic–benthic decoupling of the fish fauna. The oxygen isotopic composition of the benthic fish otoliths expresses higher salinity of the lower part of the water column at that time, and is accompanied by a rapid increase and then drop in the carbon isotopic compositions of the otoliths (which is metabolic rate proxy) of the benthic fish, ultimately leading to the local extirpation of the species. Overall, our results confirm that otolith stable oxygen and carbon isotopes are promising proxies for paleoceanographic studies and, when combined with those of foraminifera, can reveal changes in the life history and migration patterns of teleost fishes in deep time.
Why Shot Noise Does Not Generally Detect Pairing in Mesoscopic Superconducting Tunnel Junctions
2024-02-15

The shot noise in tunneling experiments reflects the Poissonian nature of the tunneling process. The shot-noise power is proportional to both the magnitude of the current and the effective charge of the carrier. Shot-noise spectroscopy thus enables us, in principle, to determine the effective charge <a:math xmlns:a="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" display="inline"><a:mi>q</a:mi></a:math> of the charge carriers of that tunnel. This can be used to detect electron pairing in superconductors: In the normal state, the noise corresponds to single electron tunneling (<c:math xmlns:c="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" display="inline"><c:mrow><c:mi>q</c:mi><c:mo>=</c:mo><c:mn>1</c:mn><c:mi>e</c:mi></c:mrow></c:math>), while in the paired state, the noise corresponds to <e:math xmlns:e="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" display="inline"><e:mrow><e:mi>q</e:mi><e:mo>=</e:mo><e:mn>2</e:mn><e:mi>e</e:mi></e:mrow></e:math>. Here, we use a newly developed amplifier to reveal that in typical mesoscopic superconducting junctions, the shot noise does not reflect the signatures of pairing and instead stays at a level corresponding to <g:math xmlns:g="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" display="inline"><g:mrow><g:mi>q</g:mi><g:mo>=</g:mo><g:mn>1</g:mn><g:mi>e</g:mi></g:mrow></g:math>. We show that transparency can control the shot noise, and this <i:math xmlns:i="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" display="inline"><i:mrow><i:mi>q</i:mi><i:mo>=</i:mo><i:mn>1</i:mn><i:mi>e</i:mi></i:mrow></i:math> is due to the large number of tunneling channels with each having very low transparency. Our results indicate that in typical mesoscopic superconducting junctions, one should expect <k:math xmlns:k="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" display="inline"><k:mrow><k:mi>q</k:mi><k:mo>=</k:mo><k:mn>1</k:mn><k:mi>e</k:mi></k:mrow></k:math> noise and lead to design guidelines for junctions that allow the detection of electron pairing. Published by the American Physical Society 2024
Parkin mRNA Expression Levels in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Parkin‐Related Parkinson's Disease
2024-02-15

Abstract Introduction Pathogenic variants in parkin (PRKN gene) are the second most prevalent known monogenic cause of Parkinson's disease (PD). How monoallelic or biallelic pathogenic variants in the PRKN gene may affect its transcription in patient‐derived biological material has not been systematically studied. Methods PRKN mRNA expression levels were measured with real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). PBMCs were derived from PRKN‐mutated PD patients (PRKN‐PD) (n = 12), sporadic PD (sPD) (n = 21) and healthy controls (n = 21). Six of the PRKN‐PD patients were heterozygous, four were compound heterozygous, and two were homozygous for PRKN variants. Results A statistically significant decrease in PRKN expression levels was present, compared to healthy controls and sPD, in heterozygous ( P = 0.019 and 0.031 respectively) and biallelic ( P &lt; 0.001 for both) PRKN‐PD. PRKN expression levels in biallelic PD patients were uniformly very low and were reduced, albeit not significantly, compared to heterozygotes. Based on receiver operating characteristic analysis, low PRKN expression levels were a sensitive and extremely specific indicator for the presence of PRKN pathogenic variants. Conclusions Assessment of PRKN mRNA levels in PBMCs may be a useful way to screen for biallelic pathogenic variants in the PRKN gene. Suspicion for certain variants in a heterozygous state may also be raised based on low PRKN mRNA levels. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Preoperative Assessment of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Using [18F]fluoride Positron Emission Tomography (PET)/CT and [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose PET/MRI in Correlation with Histomorphometry and Micro-CT—A Prospective Comparative Study
2024-02-15

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the imaging characteristics of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) using [18F]fluoride positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) and [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for preoperative assessment and to correlate them with microarchitectural and histomorphometric data with respect to clinical findings. Methods: Twelve patients (five female; mean age 75 ± 7.6 yr) with symptomatic MRONJ underwent both scans on the same day, and imaging findings were used to plan surgical interventions for seven patients. Bone tracer uptake was classified as high, medium, or low, and surgical samples were evaluated using Micro-CT and histomorphometric analysis. Results: CT showed medullary sclerosis in all patients, and MRI revealed gadolinium enhancement in four patients. PET imaging revealed remarkably elevated [18F]fluoride uptake and moderately increased [18F]FDG uptake in MRONJ compared to healthy jawbones, with both differences being statistically significant. [18F]fluoride uptake was associated with necrosis, bacteria, and inflammatory tissue. Micro-CT data did not show significant differences, but histomorphometric analysis revealed higher osteocyte and lacunae densities in the high [18F]fluoride uptake group, and more necrotic bone in the medium [18F]fluoride uptake group. Bacteria were observed in all areas. Conclusions: In summary, [18F]fluoride PET accurately identified MRONJ extent, revealing functional changes in jawbone remodeling not visible on CT. [18F]FDG PET showed differences in bone and soft tissue, though less pronounced. This method aids in evaluating disease activity and guiding treatment planning, requiring further research for optimal surgical approaches based on tracer uptake.
Symmetrical Bispyridinium Compounds Act as Open Channel Blockers of Cation-Selective Ion Channels
2024-02-15

Current treatments against organophosphate poisoning (OPP) do not directly address effects mediated by the overstimulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR). Non-oxime bispyridinium compounds (BPC) promote acetylcholine esterase-independent recovery of organophosphate-induced paralysis. Here, we test the hypothesis that they act by positive modulatory action on nAChRs. Using two-electrode voltage clamp analysis in combination with mutagenesis and molecular docking analysis, the potency and molecular mode of action of a series of nine BPCs was investigated on human α7 and muscle-type nAChRs expressed in <i>Xenopus laevis</i> oocytes. The investigated BPCs inhibited α7 and/or muscle-type nAChRs with IC<sub>50</sub> values in the high nanomolar to high micromolar range. Further analysis of the most potent analogues revealed a noncompetitive, voltage-dependent inhibition. Co-application with the α7-selective positive allosteric modulator PNU120596 and generation of α7/5HT3 receptor chimeras excluded direct interaction with the PNU120596 binding site and binding to the extracellular domain of the α7 nAChR, suggesting that they act as open channel blockers (OCBs). Molecular docking supported by mutagenesis localized the BPC binding area in the outer channel vestibule between the extracellular and transmembrane domains. Analysis of BPC action on other cation-selective channels suggests a rather nonspecific inhibition of pentameric cation channels. BPCs have been shown to ameliorate organophosphate-induced paralysis <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>. Our data support molecular action as OCBs at α7 and muscle-type nAChRs and suggest that their positive physiological effects are more complex than anticipated and require further investigation.
A modified pull-through approach with a pedicled bone flap for oral and oropharyngeal cancer resection: a feasibility study
2024-02-15

Abstract Purpose Compromised swallowing, speaking, and local complications are the major disadvantages of established approaches to the posterior tongue and oropharynx. The mandibular split involves an esthetically unpleasant bipartition of the lower lip and is prone to bony non-union or sequestration. The conventional pull-through technique on the other hand lacks the secure reattachment of the lingually released soft tissues. Methods The feasibility of a new modified pull-through approach was tested on three anatomical specimens. CAD/CAM cutting guides were used to design a retentive bone flap to properly refixate the genioglossus and geniohyoid muscles after the procedure. The radiographic assessment and treatment planning was performed on 12 cadavers. The entire procedure was tested surgically via dissection in three of those cases. This procedure was then applied in a clinical case. Results Precise repositioning and dynamic compression of bony segments was possible reproducibly and without injury to adjacent structures. In all dissected cases, a median lingual foramen was found and in two cases vessels entering it could be dissected Radiologic anatomical landmarks were sufficient in all 12 cases to perform the clinical planning procedure. Clinically, the osteotomized segment demonstrated good blood supply and plateless repositioning was verified postoperatively via cone beam scan. Conclusion The method presented is safe and easy to perform. Individual cutting guides improve the safety and accuracy of the procedure, potentially eliminating the need for osteosynthesis. We provide the anatomical and radiologic basis for clinical evaluation of this pedicled bone flap procedure and present the clinical application of this modified pull-through approach.
Comment on egusphere-2023-3121
2024-02-15

<strong class="journal-contentHeaderColor">Abstract.</strong> Science communication is an important part of research, including in the geosciences, as it can benefit society, science, and make science more publicly accountable. However, much of this work takes place in &ldquo;shadowlands&rdquo; that are neither fully seen nor understood. These shadowlands are spaces, aspects, and practices of science communication which are not clearly defined and may be harmful with respect to the science being communicated or for the science communicators themselves. With the increasing expectation in academia that researchers should participate in science communication, there is a need to address some of the major issues that lurk in these shadowlands. Here the editorial team of <em>Geoscience Communication</em> seeks to shine a light on the shadowlands of geoscience communication and suggest some solutions and examples of effective practice. The issues broadly fall under three categories: 1) harmful or unclear objectives; 2) poor quality and lack of rigor; and 3) exploitation of science communicators working within academia. Ameliorating these will require: 1) clarifying objectives and audiences; 2) adequately training science communicators; and 3) giving science communication equivalent recognition to other professional activities. By shining a light on the shadowlands of science communication in academia and proposing potential remedies, our aim is to cultivate a more transparent and responsible landscape for geoscience communication&mdash;a transformation that will ultimately benefit the progress of science, the welfare of scientists, and more broadly society at large.
On multi-type Cannings models and multi-type exchangeable coalescents
2024-02-15

A multi-type neutral Cannings population model with migration and fixed subpopulation sizes is analyzed. Under appropriate conditions, as all subpopulation sizes tend to infinity, the ancestral process, properly time-scaled, converges to a multi-type coalescent sharing the exchangeability and consistency property. The proof gains from coalescent theory for single-type Cannings models and from decompositions of transition probabilities into parts concerning reproduction and migration respectively. The following section deals with a different but closely related multi-type Cannings model with mutation and fixed total population size but stochastically varying subpopulation sizes. The latter model is analyzed forward and backward in time with an emphasis on its behavior as the total population size tends to infinity. Forward in time, multi-type limiting branching processes arise for large population size. Its backward structure and related open problems are briefly discussed.
Coronary artery disease evaluation during transcatheter aortic valve replacement work-up using photon-counting CT and artificial intelligence
2024-02-16

Deep learning-based photon-counting FFRai evaluation improves the accuracy of PC-CCTA ≥ 50% stenosis detection, reduces the need for ICA, and may be incorporated into the clinical TAVR work-up for the assessment of CAD.
Sleep promotes T-cell migration towards CCL19 via growth hormone and prolactin signaling in humans
2024-02-16

Sleep strongly supports the formation of adaptive immunity, e.g., after vaccination. However, the underlying mechanisms remain largely obscure. Here we show in healthy humans that sleep compared to nocturnal wakefulness specifically promotes the migration of various T-cell subsets towards the chemokine CCL19, which is essential for lymph-node homing and, thus, for the initiation and maintenance of adaptive immune responses. Migration towards the inflammatory chemokine CCL5 remained unaffected. Incubating the cells with plasma from sleeping participants likewise increased CCL19-directed migration, an effect that was dependent on growth hormone and prolactin signaling. These findings show that sleep selectively promotes the lymph node homing potential of T cells by increasing hormonal release, and thus reveal a causal mechanism underlying the supporting effect of sleep on adaptive immunity in humans.
Sequential neuronal processing of number values, abstract decision, and action in the primate prefrontal cortex
2024-02-16

Decision-making requires processing of sensory information, comparing the gathered evidence to make a judgment, and performing the action to communicate it. How neuronal representations transform during this cascade of representations remains a matter of debate. Here, we studied the succession of neuronal representations in the primate prefrontal cortex (PFC). We trained monkeys to judge whether a pair of sequentially presented displays had the same number of items. We used a combination of single neuron and population-level analyses and discovered a sequential transformation of represented information with trial progression. While numerical values were initially represented with high precision and in conjunction with detailed information such as order, the decision was encoded in a low-dimensional subspace of neural activity. This decision encoding was invariant to both retrospective numerical values and prospective motor plans, representing only the binary judgment of “same number” versus “different number,” thus facilitating the generalization of decisions to novel number pairs. We conclude that this transformation of neuronal codes within the prefrontal cortex supports cognitive flexibility and generalizability of decisions to new conditions.
Trend of measles-rubella vaccination coverage and impact on measles epidemiology in the Savannah Region, Ghana; 2018–2022: A secondary data analysis
2024-02-16

The MR vaccination coverage in the Savannah Region declined probably due to pre-existing weaknesses in the immunization programme accentuated by impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The lowered population immunity likely contributed to occurrence of the measles outbreak in 2022. Pragmatic actions are needed to catch-up on missed children, restore coverage to pre-pandemic levels, and strengthen the immunization programme as part of global efforts towards achieving the Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030) trajectory.
Phage susceptibility determinants of the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus epidermidis
2024-02-16

Staphylococcus epidermidis is a common member of the human skin and nose microbiomes and a frequent cause of invasive infections. Transducing phages accomplish the horizontal transfer of resistance and virulence genes by mispackaging of mobile-genetic elements, contributing to severe, therapy-refractory S. epidermidis infections. Lytic phages on the other hand can be interesting candidates for new anti-S. epidermidis phage therapies. Despite the importance of phages, we are only beginning to unravel S. epidermidis phage interactions. Recent studies shed new light on S. epidermidis phage diversity, host range, and receptor specificities. Modulation of cell wall teichoic acids, the major phage receptor structures, along with other phage defense mechanisms, are crucial determinants for S. epidermidis susceptibility to different phage groups.
Synthesis and Investigation of a Soluble Distannene with no Trans‐Bent Angle or Twisting in the Solid‐State
2024-02-16

Abstract By treating KSi i Pr 3 with Sn[N(SiMe 3 ) 2 ] 2 the distannene Sn 2 (TIPS) 4 (TIPS=Si i Pr 3 ) is formed in a metathesis reaction. The crystal structure analysis of Sn 2 (TIPS) 4 reveals a planar arrangement of the substituents in the solid‐state and hence the second planar alkene like distannene of its kind. Due to the TIPS substituents, Sn 2 (TIPS) 4 is well soluble in all commonly used organic solvents, opening the door for various analytics and reactivity studies. Due to its stability in solution, various reactions can be performed such as cycloaddition reactions with 2,3‐dimethyl‐1,3‐butadiene (DMBD) and TMS‐azide.