bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Op Koers Online, an online group intervention for parents of children with cancer: Results of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Joosten M. M. H. , Maurice‐Stam H. , van Gorp M. , Beek L. R. , Stremler‐van Holten D. , Scholten L. , Grootenhuis M. A.
Published: January 2024

Objective

Parents of children with cancer are at risk for developing psychosocial problems. The present study aims to evaluate the effect of an online group intervention (Op Koers Online, in English: On Track Online) on psychosocial wellbeing and coping skills.

Methods

Parents of a child with cancer (diagnosis <5 years ago) participated in a randomized controlled trial. In six consecutive (and one booster‐) protocolled sessions in an online chatroom, trained psychologists and social workers taught coping skills using cognitive behavioral and acceptance and commitment techniques. Questionnaires assessed anxiety, depression, distress, situation‐specific emotional reactions and coping skills (Op Koers Questionnaire/Cognitive Coping Strategies Scale Parent Form) and evaluated the intervention. Linear mixed‐model analyses were performed to detect differences between the conditions in changes over time; T0–T1 and T0–T2 (6‐week and 6‐month follow‐up), and to detect changes in scores T2–T3 (12‐month follow‐up) for the intervention group only.

Results

89 parents were included in analyses (mean age 41.9 years, 86% female, 62%/38% post/during treatment of their child). Beneficial intervention effects (p < 0.05) were found at T1 for anxiety, depression, distress, loneliness and relaxation, and at T2 for anxiety, uncertainty and relaxation. In the intervention condition, scores did not change from T2 to T3, except loneliness that decreased and relaxation that improved. All effect sizes were small to medium (β = −0.21 to 0.46). Parents were generally positive about the intervention.

Conclusions

Op Koers Online for parents of children with cancer has a positive effect on psychosocial wellbeing and the coping skill relaxation. Implementation is recommended to prevent psychosocial problems.

Clinical Trial Registration

Dutch Trial Register https://onderzoekmetmensen.nl/en NL73763.041.20.
Auxetic System Based on Rotating Hexagons and Triangles
Authors: Lim Teik‐Cheng
Published: January 2024

An auxetic metamaterial that exhibits isotropic in‐plane deformation is introduced herein in the form of rotating rigid units, consisting of regular hexagons and equilateral triangles, that are connected at their vertices. By inspection, the in‐plane Poisson's ratio is at a constant value of ν = −1. The size descriptor of this metamaterial can be expressed as a function of rotating unit sizes and their internal angle by means of geometrical construction. By energy method, the effective in‐plane Young's modulus of this metamaterial has been established and shown to be governed by the rotational stiffness at the connecting hinges in addition to the relative sizes of the rotating units and their internal angle. Results indicate that the in‐plane Young's modulus is linearly proportional to the rotational stiffness at the connecting hinges and inversely proportional to the rigid unit size. In addition, the Young's modulus is governed by the ratio of the hexagon‐to‐triangle size for small internal angle, and rapidly approaches extreme value as the internal angle approaches right angle. The characteristics of the proposed metamaterial would allow its use as a sieve that not only controls the filtering of particles by size but also by the aspect ratio of rod‐like particles.
The narrative teacher: Narrative nonfiction as a teaching tool in the primary history classroom
Authors: Browning Emma , Hohenstein Jill
Published: January 2024

Narrative is fundamental to human thought, yet in many classrooms, expository texts are commonly used to support learning in content‐based subjects, such as history. Given the importance of narrative, it might be harnessed as a powerful tool to support learning. This research compares the impact of narrative nonfiction (NNF) and expository text (ET) on the development and retention of conceptual understanding relating to World War I (WWI). In an experiment involving 78 participants (mean age = 10.2 years, standard deviation = 0.29), pupils were placed into one of two conditions: in one, information about WWI was conveyed primarily through NNF texts, and in the other, through ETs. Participants completed written pre‐, post‐ and delayed post‐assessments to assess development and retention of conceptual understanding. It was found that participants in the NNF condition showed greater chronological and causal thinking skills. In addition, participants in the NNF condition retained significantly more conceptual understanding at delayed post‐assessments than those in the ET condition. Overall, these findings suggest that narrative texts have the potential to be powerful learning tools. Implications for how texts are selected and utilised to support learning in the primary, history classroom are discussed.
Joint synthesis of trajectory and controlled invariant funnel for discrete‐time systems with locally Lipschitz nonlinearities
Authors: Kim Taewan , Elango Purnanand , Açıkmeşe Behçet
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a joint synthesis algorithm of trajectory and controlled invariant funnel (CIF) for locally Lipschitz nonlinear systems subject to bounded disturbances. The CIF synthesis refers to a procedure of computing controlled invariance sets and corresponding feedback gains. In contrast to existing CIF synthesis methods that compute the CIF with a predefined nominal trajectory, our work aims to optimize the nominal trajectory and the CIF jointly to satisfy feasibility conditions without the relaxation of constraints and obtain a more cost‐optimal nominal trajectory. The proposed work has a recursive scheme that mainly optimize trajectory update and funnel update. The trajectory update step optimizes the nominal trajectory while ensuring the feasibility of the CIF. Then, the funnel update step computes the funnel around the nominal trajectory so that the CIF guarantees an invariance property. As a result, with the optimized trajectory and CIF, any resulting trajectory propagated from an initial set by the control law with the computed feedback gain remains within the feasible region around the nominal trajectory under the presence of bounded disturbances. We validate the proposed method via two applications from robotics.
Adaptive terminal sliding mode trajectory tracking control with fixed‐time prescribed performance considering rollover stability of autonomous vehicles
Authors: Lu Linying , Jiao Xiaohong , Zhang Ting
Published: January 2024

In the face of external disturbances, the autonomous vehicle with a high center of gravity is exposed to the risk of roll instability during trajectory tracking. To this end, this paper aims to propose a vector‐extended‐state‐observer (VESO)‐based adaptive fixed‐time terminal sliding mode prescribed performance control strategy, which coordinates the front wheel steering angle and external roll moment to ensure the roll stability of the high center of gravity autonomous vehicle while improving the tracking dynamic and steady state performances. The VESO for estimating the external disturbance is designed to enhance the robustness outside the sliding mode surface, based on which the adaptive updating laws compensate the estimation errors to provide the control system's dynamic performance. A fixed‐time sliding mode control with prescribed performance is proposed, which combines a fixed‐time prescribed performance control method to further improve the transient performance and steady‐state accuracy. The double lane‐changing reference trajectory tracking conditions under different vehicle driving speeds and initial errors settings are verified by simulation in MATLAB/Simulink environment, and the results show that the proposed control strategy can ensure the rolling stability of the vehicle, can track the reference trajectory accurately and quickly, and has strong robustness.
Enhanced Broadband Manipulation of Acoustic Vortex Beams Using 3‐bit Coding Metasurfaces through Topological Optimization
Authors: Zhao Sheng‐Dong , Zhang Na‐Li , Han Ping , Gu Yan , Dong Hao‐Wen
Published: January 2024

The acoustic coding metasurfaces (ACMs) have the ability to manipulate complex acoustic behavior by reconstructing the coding sequence. In particular, the design of broadband coding enhances the versatility of ACMs. ACMs offer significant advantages over traditional metasurfaces, including a limited number of units and flexible wave control performance. The unit quantity is determined by 2n, with 1‐bit utilizing 2 units, 2‐bit using 4 units, and 3‐bit employing 8 units. Utilizing multiple bits allows for precise control over the phase of sound waves and enables the realization of more intricate acoustic functions. To address the requirements of broadband multi‐bit applications, this paper presents the development of novel 3‐bit broadband reflected acoustic coding metasurfaces (BACMs) with eight coding units. These metasurfaces are systematically designed using the bottom‐up topology optimization method. A constant phase difference of 45° can be achieved across all eight coding units within a broad frequency range. Additionally, the spiral distribution of phase differences enables the construction of an acoustic vortex metasurface. Moreover, by combining the convolution method, the strategies are outlined for constructing vortex‐focusing metasurfaces and vortex beam manipulation metasurfaces. These 3‐bit coding metasurfaces possess significant potential in the fields of acoustic particle suspension and acoustic communication.
Ni Single‐Atom Bual Catalytic Electrodes for Long Life and High Energy Efficiency Zinc‐Iodine Batteries
Authors: Qu Wentao , Zhu Jian , Cao Guozhong , Chen Shulin , Tan Yongwen , Chen Baohui , Zhang Ming
Published: January 2024

Zinc‐iodine batteries (Zn‐I2) are extremely attractive as the safe and cost‐effective scalable energy storage system in the stationary applications. However, the inefficient redox kinetics and “shuttling effect” of iodine species result in unsatisfactory energy efficiency and short cycle life, hindering their commercialization. In this work, Ni single atoms highly dispersed on carbon fibers is designed and synthesized as iodine anchoring sites and dual catalysts for Zn‐I2 batteries, and successfully inhibit the iodine species shuttling and boost dual reaction kinetics. Theoretical calculations indicate that the reinforced d‐p orbital hybridization and charge interaction between Ni single‐atoms and iodine species effectively enhance the confinement of iodine species. Ni single‐atoms also accelerate the iodine conversion reactions with tailored bonding structure of I─I bonds and reduced energy barrier for the dual conversion of iodine species. Consequently, the high‐rate performance (180 mAh g−1 at 3 A g−1), cycling stability (capacity retention of 74% after 5900 cycles) and high energy efficiency (90% at 3 A g−1) are achieved. The work provides an effective strategy for the development of iodine hosts with high catalytic activity for Zn‐I2 batteries.
Modification of the Electron‐Deficient Core on Unfused‐Ring Acceptors Enabling High Open‐Circuit Voltage of Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Ha Kyung , Ng Ho Ming , Pan Mingao , Lai Joshua Yuk Lin , Li Xingye , Li Yuhao , Ding Kan , Lu Xinhui , Ade Harald , Cui Bo , Yan He , Yu Han
Published: January 2024

Unfused‐ring acceptors with different electron‐deficient central units, dithieno[3,2‐f:2′,3′‐h]quinoxaline (KS40) and dithieno[3,2‐e:2′,3′‐g]‐2,1,3‐benzoxadiazole (KS41) are synthesized and characterized. When blended with PM6, KS40 with a weaker electron‐accepting quinoxaline exhibits a much higher open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 0.945 V. As a result, the KS40‐based device achieves a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.2%. PM6:KS41‐based devices, in contrast, afford improved charge mobilities as well as suppressed recombination behavior, which eventually leads to an improvement in the fill factor (72.4%). Consequently, the device is able to achieve a PCE of 11.6%.
Bimetal‐Substituted Polyanion Cathode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries: Less Vanadium and Boosted Low‐Temperature Kinetics
Authors: Xu Shitan , Zhu Wensun , Yang Yang , Yao Yu , Ali Ghulam , Zhang Xianghua , Rui Xianhong , Yu Yan
Published: January 2024

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have emerged as an attractive alternative for large‐scale energy storage due to their low cost and high safety. The selection of cathode materials, which determine SIB performance, becomes a crucial aspect. Vanadium‐based phosphates are known for their multielectron transfer properties and stable structure, but their intrinsic electronic conductivity is limited. In this regard, bimetallic substitution is an excellent modification method for improving the conductivity property. Herein, a novel Na4VMn0.7Ni0.3(PO4)3@C (NVMNP@C) cathode with less vanadium is designed for SIBs, which exhibits outstanding electrochemical performance at 25 °C, delivering rate capacity of 67 mA h g−1 at 3 A g−1, and long‐term cyclability of remaining 74.6% after 4800 cycles at 2 A g−1. Furthermore, excellent low‐temperature adaptability (82 mA h g−1 at 20 mA g−1, 60 mA h g−1 at 400 mA g−1, and 90.4% capacity retention after 230 cycles at 100 mA g−1) at −40 °C is also achieved. This unique work has broken a feasible pathway for high‐performance SIB cathode at low temperature.
The Arousa Island bridge. Complete refurbishment and 10 years analysis description
Authors: Becerra‐Mosquera José Antonio , Carro‐López Diego , Herrador Manuel F.
Published: January 2024

The Isla de Arousa Bridge, 1980 m long, is the only road access to Isla de Arousa. Built in 1985, this single‐cell box girder divided into 40 spans runs entirely over the sea. In response to corrosion damage, the local government decided to make an intervention with an ambitious repair project in 2009. The repair, carried out with three different techniques, aims to collect data for future repairs. In this research the results of rehabilitation and comparison of the evolution of the repairs are described, together with the data on the progression of corrosion and its effect on the life cycle. At the moment, with data from 10 years of protection, both hybrid and galvanic anodes installation have shown effectiveness. Bridge Health index analysis shows that after reparation, the bridge presented a very good condition, and even after 10 years the condition is still good, except for some damaged bearings.
TTA‐Rapid for treating the canine cruciate deficient stifle: Medium to long‐term outcome and analysis of risk factors
Authors: Butterworth Steven J. , Schofield Imogen
Published: January 2024

Background

This study aimed to evaluate medium to long‐term outcomes following treatment of lameness associated with cranial cruciate ligament insufficiency using the tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA)‐Rapid technique and to investigate risk factors associated with outcome, including tibial plateau angle (TPA).

Methods

Patient records for cases treated over an 80‐month period were examined retrospectively. An owner postal questionnaire using a clinical metrology instrument (Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs) evaluated the outcome at least 6 months after surgery.

Results

A total of 149 procedures were carried out in 120 dogs. Questionnaires were received for 64 dogs (53.3%), with a median follow‐up time of 37.5 months. Outcome was judged to be satisfactory, based on frequency of lameness, in 63 (98.4%), while satisfactory outcomes were achieved in 61 (95.3%) based on severity of lameness and in 50 (78.1%) based on mobility score. Statistical analysis showed that age, bodyweight, TPA, meniscal injury and concurrent patellar surgery did not influence outcome, but time to follow‐up positively correlated with mobility score.

Limitations

This study involved one surgeon in one centre with outcome data based on the completion of an owner questionnaire, although this used a validated clinical metrology instrument.

Conclusion

TTA‐Rapid offers a treatment option for cranial cruciate‐deficient stifles with a good medium to long‐term outcome, and no risk factors were identified to suggest any limitations to its use.
Increasing access to pediatric surgical care: Assessing district hospital readiness in rural Rwanda
Authors: Nuss Sarah R. , Nkurunziza Jonathan , Mugabo Carol , Kubwimana Marthe , Benimana Fanny , Uwera Cynthia , Nyirasabwa Theodette , Nyirimanzi Naphtal , Forbes Callum , Majyambere Jean Paul , Kateera Fredrick , Hedt‐Gauthier Bethany L. , Cubaka Vincent K.
Published: January 2024

Introduction/Background

Safe and quality surgery is crucial for child health. In Rwanda, district hospitals serve as primary entry points for pediatric patients needing surgical care. This paper reports on the organizational readiness and facility capacity to provide pediatric surgery in three district hospitals in rural Rwanda.

Methods

We administered the Children's Surgical Assessment Tool, adapted for a Rwandan district hospital, to assess facility readiness across 5 domains (infrastructure, workforce, service delivery, financing, and training) at three Partners in Health supported district hospitals (Kirehe, Rwinkwavu, and Butaro District Hospitals). We used the Safe Surgery Organizational Readiness Tool (SSORT) to measure perceived individual and team readiness to implement surgical quality improvement interventions across 14 domains.

Results

None of the facilities had a dedicated pediatric surgeon, and the most common barriers to pediatric surgery were lack of surgeon (68%), lack of physician anesthesiologists (19%), and inadequate infrastructure (17%). There were gaps in operating and recovery room infrastructure and information management for pediatric outpatients and referrals. In SSORT interviews (n = 47), the highest barriers to increasing pediatric surgery capacity were facility capacity (mean score = 2.6 out of 5), psychological safety (median score = 3.0 out of 5), and resistance to change (mean score = 1.5 out of 5 with 5 = no resistance).

Conclusions

This study highlights challenges in providing safe and high‐quality surgical care to pediatric patients in three rural district hospitals in Rwanda. It underscores the need for targeted interventions to address facility and organizational barriers prior to implementing interventions to expand pediatric surgical capacity.
Analysis of radiative heat transfer on electro‐osmotic magneto nanofluid flow through ciliary propulsion
Authors: Imran Ali , Raja Muhammad Asif Zahoor , Awan Saeed Ehsan , Shoaib Muhammad
Published: January 2024

A novel mathematical investigation is carried out to reveal the significance of thermal radiation on the dissipative magneto hydrodynamic electroosmotic ciliary propulsion of a Newtonian nanofluid (DMHECP‐NNF) in an symmetric micro‐channel by implementing the impact of an axial electrical as well as transverse magnetic fields. The ciliary transport model is explored by using conservation of mass and momentum, heat, nanoparticle concentration, and electric potential expressions along with associated boundary conditions. The pertinent system for the proposed flow problem DMHECP‐NNF consisting of partial differential equations are converted into ordinary differential equations system by incorporating the strengths dimensionless mechanism. Then analytical expressions are found for electrical potential, axial velocity, stream function, pressure gradient, temperature and concentration profiles. Whereas numerical computations are carried out to study transverse velocity and rise of pressure as per wavelength. The impacts of significant physical quantities of DMHECP‐NNF are investigated with the help of graphical manipulations. It is observed in this novel study that axial velocity rises initially and then decline with increase in the magnitude of electro‐osmotic parameter and Helmholtz‐Smoluchowski velocity. Also, it is seen that with the rising value of electric‐osmotic parameter the complexion of the trapped bolus is inflated and surrounded by few streamlines.
Mentalization-Oriented Metacognitive Theory of Psychodrama
Authors: Krüger Reinhard T.
Published: January 2024

Psychodrama therapists need to explainbetterwhat they do in therapy when they do what they do (Marineau 2011, p. 43). Therole theoriesare not sufficient to justify thespecific therapeutic effects of psychodrama therapy. The cross-analytical concept of mentalizing gives anew scientific basisto the profound emotional experiences inclassical psychodrama:Psychodrama is inner mentalizing through external play in the as-if mode.

1. The therapistintuitivelyuses the patient’s metacognitive tools of inner mentalizing as external action modes. Doing this, inner representing, interacting, rehearsing mentally, and integrating become external scene construction, role play, role reversal, and scene change. This knowledge helps to treat the patient's disturbedmetacognitiveprocessesdirectlyin adisorder-specific mannerwith a lot of timein the right place.

2. The psychodramaticexternal action in the as-if modecompletes the associated neuronal resonance circuits between the various memory centerswith new elements. According to Moreno (1970, p. 77), this gives rise to the “true second time, which liberates from the first”. The concept of mentalizing explains why psychodrama therapy is not only used in groups, butalso in individual settings. Behavioral therapy, systemic therapy, and depth psychological therapy are increasingly integrating the disorder-specific psychodramaticaction methodsinto their own therapeutic work.
Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Krüger Reinhard T.
Published: January 2024

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorders in developed countries. They include valid real fears, neurotic fears, and fears of structural disorders. The type of anxiety is the guiding principle for the disorder-specific psychodramatic approach. Panic attacks are caused by the imminent collapse of an old self-protection through perfectionism. The therapist therefore places chairs next to the patient to externally symbolize the patient’s symptoms in everyday life and also his self-protection through perfectionism (ego-state), which threatens to collapse in anxiety provoking situations. In disorder-specific psychodrama therapy, the patient traces his dysfunctional self-regulation in his symptom production in the as-if mode of play. In doing so, he understands himself for the first time. He gains ego control over his symptom production and spontaneously finds alternative courses of action. Thus, the therapist first works directly on the metacognitive processes that cause the panic and the dysfunctional thought content. This opens up access to the patient’s underlying conflicts.
Beweggründe von Patienten, die sich selbständig in der Notaufnahme vorstellen – eine prospektive monozentrische Beobachtungsstudie
Authors: Sitter Katharina , Braunstein Mareen , Wörnle Markus
Published: January 2024

Hintergrund

In der aktuellen fachlichen, gesellschaftlichen und politischen Diskussion wird immer wieder die These aufgestellt, dass ein Großteil der Patienten, die selbständig die Notaufnahme aufsuchen, auch in anderen Versorgungsbereichen wie beim Hausarzt, dem kassenärztlichen Bereitschaftsdienst oder in Notfallpraxen behandelt werden könnte. Verschiedene Gründe werden aufgeführt, warum diese alternativen Versorgungsbereiche in diesen Fällen nicht genutzt werden.

Ziel der Arbeit

In unserer Arbeit untersuchten wir die Beweggründe von Patienten, die sich selbständig in der Notaufnahme vorstellten, sowie soziodemografische Parameter dieses Studienkollektivs.

Material und Methoden

Die Erhebung erfolgte im Rahmen einer prospektiven monozentrischen Beobachtungsstudie an internistischen Patienten einer universitären Notaufnahme in Innenstadtlage.

Ergebnisse

1086 Patienten konnten in die Studie eingeschlossen werden. 33 % der Studienteilnehmer besuchten die Notaufnahme aufgrund einer ärztlichen Empfehlung bzw. Einweisung anstelle einer alternativen Versorgungsmöglichkeit. Der Hauptgrund für den Besuch der Notaufnahme war die subjektiv beurteilte Dringlichkeit der Beschwerden. 28 % der Patienten, die sich selbständig in der Notaufnahme vorstellten, mussten im Verlauf stationär weiterversorgt werden. Die Kenntnis von alternativen Versorgungswegen wie einer Inanspruchnahme des Rettungsdiensts, der Vorstellung beim kassenärztlichen Bereitschaftsdienst oder dem Besuch von Notfallpraxen war gering.

Diskussion

Die Notaufnahmen sind nach wie vor eine wichtige Anlaufstelle für Patienten, die sich dort selbständig und ohne Einlieferung mit dem Rettungsdienst vorstellen. Die Beweggründe, warum die Patienten einen Besuch der Notaufnahme einer Behandlung in einer alternativen Versorgungsstruktur vorziehen, sind unterschiedlich. Wenn Alternativen anstatt Notaufnahmen genutzt werden sollen, so müssen hier erst Strukturen aufgebaut bzw. erweitert werden.
Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells obstruct AML-targeting CD8+ clonal effector and CAR T-cell function while promoting a senescence-associated phenotype
Authors: Towers Russell , Trombello Lidia , Fusenig Maximilian , Tunger Antje , Baumann Anna-Lena , Savoldelli Roberto , Wehner Rebekka , Fasslrinner Frederick , Arndt Claudia , Dazzi Francesco , Von Bonin Malte , Feldmann Anja , Bachmann Michael P. , Wobus Manja , Schmitz Marc , Bornhäuser Martin
Published: January 2024

Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been described as potent regulators of T-cell function, though whether they could impede the effectiveness of immunotherapy against acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is still under investigation. We examine whether they could interfere with the activity of leukemia-specific clonal cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, as well as whether the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs could be associated with the induction of T-cell senescence. Co-cultures of leukemia-associated Wilm’s tumor protein 1 (WT1) and tyrosine-protein kinase transmembrane receptor 1 (ROR1)-reactive CTLs and of CD123-redirected switchable CAR T cells were prepared in the presence of MSCs and assessed for cytotoxic potential, cytokine secretion, and expansion. T-cell senescence within functional memory sub-compartments was investigated for the senescence-associated phenotype CD28−CD57+ using unmodified peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We describe inhibition of expansion of AML-redirected switchable CAR T cells by MSCs via indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO-1) activity, as well as reduction of interferon gamma (IFNγ) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) release. In addition, MSCs interfered with the secretory potential of leukemia-associated WT1- and ROR1-targeting CTL clones, inhibiting the release of IFNγ, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and IL-2. Abrogated T cells were shown to retain their cytolytic activity. Moreover, we demonstrate induction of a CD28loCD27loCD57+KLRG1+ senescent T-cell phenotype by MSCs. In summary, we show that MSCs are potent modulators of anti-leukemic T cells, and targeting their modes of action would likely be beneficial in a combinatorial approach with AML-directed immunotherapy.
HDAC6 inhibitor ACY-1215 enhances STAT1 acetylation to block PD-L1 for colorectal cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Wen Yuqing , Ye Shuyu , Li Zhengshuo , Zhang Xiaoyue , Liu Can , Wu Yangge , Zheng Run , Xu Chenxiao , Tian Junrui , Shu Lanjun , Yan Qun , Ai Feiyan , Ma Jian
Published: January 2024

The search for effective combination therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) has become important for cancer patients who do not respond to the ICI well. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) inhibitors have attracted wide attention as anti-tumor agents. ACY-1215 is a selective inhibitor of HDAC6, which can inhibit the growth of a variety of tumor. We previously revealed that HDAC family is highly expressed in colorectal cancer specimens and mouse models. In this study, ACY-1215 was combined with anti-PD1 to treat tumor-bearing mice associated with colorectal cancer. ACY-1215 combined with anti-PD1 effectively inhibited the colorectal tumor growth. The expression of PD-L1 in tumor of mice were inhibited by ACY-1215 and anti-PD1 combination treatment, whereas some biomarkers reflecting T cell activation were upregulated. In a co-culture system of T cells and tumor cells, ACY-1215 helped T cells to kill tumor cells. Mechanically, HDAC6 enhanced the acetylation of STAT1 and inhibited the phosphorylation of STAT1, thus preventing STAT1 from entering the nucleus to activate PD-L1 transcription. This study reveals a novel regulatory mechanism of HDAC6 on non-histone substrates, especially on protein acetylation. HDAC6 inhibitors may be of great significance in tumor immunotherapy and related combination strategies.
H3 K27M mutation in rosette-forming glioneuronal tumors: a potential diagnostic pitfall
Authors: Marastoni Elena , Ammendola Serena , Rossi Sabrina , Giovannoni Isabella , Broggi Giuseppe , Masotto Barbara , Feletti Alberto , Barresi Valeria
Published: January 2024

According to the fifth edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of tumors of the central nervous system (CNS), diffuse midline glioma H3 K27-altered is a grade 4 infiltrative glioma that arises from midline anatomical structures and is characterized by the loss of H3 K27me3 and co-occurring H3 K27M mutation or EZHIP overexpression. However, the H3 K27M mutation has also been observed in circumscribed gliomas and glioneuronal tumors arising in midline anatomical structures, which may result in diagnostic pitfalls.

Rosette-forming glioneuronal tumor (RGNT) is a CNS WHO grade 1 neoplasm that histologically features neurocytic and glial components and originates in midline anatomical structures.

This study aimed to assess whether RGNTs, similar to other midline tumors, may exhibit immunohistochemical loss of H3 K27me3 and harbor the H3 K27M mutation.

All seven analyzed RGNTs displayed immunohistochemical loss of H3 K27me3 in all tumor cells or H3 K27me3 mosaic immunostaining. In one case, H3 K27me3 loss was associated with the H3 K27M mutation, whereas the other six cases did not exhibit any H3 mutations or EZHIP overexpression. During a follow-up period of 23 months, the H3 K27M-mutant case remained unchanged in size despite partial resection, indicating that the H3 mutation may not confer higher biological aggressiveness to RGNT.

The immunohistochemical loss of H3 K27me3 co-occurring with the H3 K27M mutation may result in the potential misdiagnosis of RGNT, especially in cases of small biopsy specimens consisting of only the glial component.
Influence of carbon structure/porosity on the electrochemical performance in Li–sulfur batteries
Authors: Pitňa Lásková Barbora , Zukalová Markéta , Vinarčíková Monika , Kavan Ladislav
Published: January 2024

The porous structure of three different, commercially available porous carbonaceous materials is investigated by the αS-plot method and by the t-plot method. Subsequently, the electrochemical properties of sulfur-free porous carbon electrodes from inspected materials are studied by cyclic voltammetry. The comparison of double-layer capacitances with the corresponding adsorption isotherms of N2 reveals the role of micropores during the capacitive charging of carbons by Li+. The studied carbons are added to the sulfur cathodes and evaluated. The cyclic voltammograms show no contribution of micropores in the carbon structure to the electrochemical processes taking place in the lithium–sulfur coin cell. The highest specific capacity of 816 mAh/g is observed for material with the lowest content of micropores in the structure (14%). The partially mesoporous and partially microporous (65%) sample and the predominantly microporous one (87%), show specific capacities of 664 mAh/g and 560 mAh/g, respectively. The galvanostatic cycling of lithium–sulfur coin cells with carbonaceous additives reveals that the mesopores and macropores in the carbon structure increase the specific charge capacity of the lithium–sulfur batteries and that the micropores improve the cycling stability of these batteries.

Graphical abstract
Mixed reality holograms for percutaneous lead extraction of cardiac implantable electronic devices
Authors: Valverde Israel , Gomez Gorka , de Alarcón González Arístides , Sierra Antonio , Perez Adriano , Hussain Tarique , Pushparajah Kuberan , Ordoñez Antonio , Gutiérrez Carretero Encarnación
Published: January 2024

To assess the potential of mixed reality holograms (MixR) based on CT images to improve percutaneous lead extraction (PLE) planning and intraoperative assistance. This was a prospective, controlled, single-centre study. Five patients with CIED infection for PLE were included in the study. Conventional imaging (chest radiograph and CT) and MixR holograms were evaluated for preoperative planning to identify common complications such as vascular thrombosis, broken leads, loops, kinking, fibrosis along the wires, and perforation of cardiovascular structures. The degree of difficulty of the procedure was estimated based on potential complications. After the PLE procedure, the level of concordance between conventional imaging and MixR holograms with intraoperative findings was evaluated. The utility of MixR intraoperative guidance was also assessed. MixR holograms demonstrated a very high correlation in predicting the presence of loops, kinking, and fibrosis compared to conventional imaging, which showed a low-to-high correlation. MixR also showed a high correlation in estimating the degree of difficulty of the procedure compared to conventional imaging, which tended to underestimate it. The surgeon who performed the PLE agreed that MixR was helpful during intraoperative assistance. MixR holograms based on CT images are an effective tool for understanding cardiovascular anatomy and detecting potential areas of complications. MixR may be used as a complementary tool for both preoperative planning and intraoperative assistance in PLE procedures.

Graphical abstract

Mixed reality holograms for intraprocedural intervention assistance.
Validation of the Italian version of the Questionnaire for Impulsive-Compulsive Disorders in Parkinson’s Disease-Rating Scale (QUIP-RS) in an Italian Parkinson’s disease cohort
Authors: Maggi Gianpaolo , Vitale Carmine , Giacobbe Chiara , Barone Angelo , Mastromarino Clara , Iannotta Federica , Amboni Marianna , Weintraub Daniel , Santangelo Gabriella
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Impulse control disorders (ICDs) frequently occur in Parkinson’s disease (PD), and an early identification is essential to prevent severe psychosocial consequences. The Questionnaire for Impulsive-Compulsive Disorders in Parkinson’s Disease–Rating Scale (QUIP-RS) has been developed to evaluate the severity of ICDs along with a range of impulsive-compulsive behaviors (ICBs) in PD; however, its Italian version has not yet been validated.

Methods

One hundred consecutive outpatients with PD were administered an Italian version of the QUIP-RS and a brief neuropsychological assessment to evaluate global cognitive status and scales to measure depression, apathy and impulsive disorders. We evaluated the internal consistency, convergent and divergent validity, and factorial structure of QUIP-RS. We also explored the possible association between QUIP-RS scores and clinical factors and dopaminergic medication.

Results

Subsyndromal ICDs manifestations were observed in 54% of the patients, and one in four (22%) reported two or more ICDs or related behaviors. The QUIP-RS demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.806) and construct validity, and its factorial structure reflected different ICDs and ICBs domains. No association emerged between QUIP-RS scores and the clinical aspects of PD and dopaminergic medication.

Conclusion

We provided, for the first time, an Italian translation of the QUIP-RS and demonstrated its feasibility in clinical and research settings. Severity of ICDs was independent of clinical factors and dopaminergic medication, underlining the need to adopt a broader perspective on their etiopathology in PD.
The effects of high intensity interval training on quality of life: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Griffiths M. , Edwards J. J. , McNamara J. , Galbraith A. , Bruce-Low S. , O’Driscoll J. M.
Published: January 2024

Aim

This study aimed to ascertain the impact of high intensity interval training (HIIT) on physical, mental, and overall quality of life (QoL) through a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis.

Subject and methods

A systematic search for relevant trials was performed via PubMed, the Cochrane Library and Web of science as well as the manual screening of prior meta-analyses and their respective reference lists (PROSPERO reference: CRD42022326576). Adult controlled trials investigating the effects of a >2-week HIIT intervention with an eligible non-intervention control group were considered. As the primary outcome, studies were required to include at least one measure of physical and/or mental and/or overall QoL, on any validated QoL domain, pre and post intervention.

Results

Twenty-two studies with twenty-four effect sizes were included; seventeen comparing HIIT and overall QoL, fourteen comparing HIIT and physical QoL and thirteen studies comparing HIIT and mental QoL. There was a statistically significant improvement in physical (SMD= 0.405, 95% CI: 0.110- 0.700, p= 0.007), mental (SMD= 0.473, 95% CI: 0.043 –0.902, p=0.031) and overall QoL (SMD= 0.554, 95% CI 0.210-0.898, p=0.002) following a program of HIIT. Secondary analysis of 5 studies comparing HIIT against moderate intensity continuous training demonstrated no significant difference in improvement between the two modes (SMD= -0.094, CI= -0.506-0.318, p=0.655).

Conclusion

Engaging in HIIT produces statistically significant improvements in physical, mental, and overall quality of life in clinical and non-clinical populations at a small to moderate effect size. Furthermore, HIIT appears as effective as MICT in improving overall QoL, offering a more time-efficient exercise option.
Generation schemes for the resource-constrained project scheduling problem with partially renewable resources and generalized precedence constraints
Authors: Karnebogen Mareike , Zimmermann Jürgen
Published: January 2024

In recent years, new resource types have been established in project scheduling. These include so-called partially renewable resources, whose total capacity applies only to a subset of periods in the planning horizon. In this paper, we consider the extension of the resource-constrained project scheduling problem with those partially renewable resources as well as generalized precedence constraints with the objective of minimizing the project duration (RCPSP/max-$$\pi $$
π
). For this problem it is known that already the determination of a feasible solution is NP-hard in the strong sense. Hence, we present two different generation schemes that are able to find good feasible solutions in short time for most tested instances. The first one is a construction-based heuristic wherein the activities of the project are scheduled iteratively time- and resource-feasibly. The second one is a relaxation-based generation scheme, in which—starting from the schedule consisting of the earliest start times—resource conflicts are identified and resolved by inserting additional resource constraints.
Links between Aggressive Sexual Fantasies and Sexual Coercion: A Replication and Extension of a Multifactorial Model
Authors: Birke Joseph Bernhard , Jern Patrick , Johansson Ada , Bondü Rebecca
Published: January 2024

Current research indicates that aggressive sexual fantasies (ASF) are related to sexual aggression, above and beyond other risk factors for this behavior. There have, however, rarely been explicitly considered in multifactor models aiming to explain sexual aggression. One exception is the multifactorial Revised Confluence Model of Sexual Aggression that was replicated in two samples of male individuals who were convicted of sexual offenses and a small sample of men from the general population and evidenced a high relevance of ASF, respectively. There were, however, no further attempts to replicate the model in larger samples from the general population. We, therefore, used a subsample from the Finnish Genetics of Sexuality and Aggression project including 3269 men (age: M = 26.17 years, SD = 4.76) to do so. Cross-sectional latent structural equation models corroborated previous research and the assumption that ASF are a central component in multifactor models that aim to explain sexual aggression: ASF and antisocial behavior/aggression were equally important associates of sexual coercion when also considering adverse childhood experiences, hypersexuality, and callous-unemotional traits. Additionally, ASF mediated the links between hypersexuality, callous-unemotional traits, as well as childhood sexual abuse and sexual coercion. These links held stable when entering further risk factors, that is, distorted perceptions, rape-supportive attitudes, and violent pornography consumption into the model. Contrasting assumptions, alcohol consumption and antisocial behavior/aggression did not interact. These results illustrate the potential importance of ASF for sexual aggression. They indicate that ASF require consideration by research on sexual aggression as well as in the treatment and risk assessment of sexual perpetrators.
The state diagram of $$\chi $$
Authors: Schoone Jan , Daemen Joan
Published: January 2024

In symmetric cryptography, block ciphers, stream ciphers and permutations often make use of a round function and many round functions consist of a linear and a non-linear layer. One that is often used is based on the cellular automaton that is denoted by$$\chi $$χas a Boolean map on bi-infinite sequences,$${\mathbb {F}}_2^{{\mathbb {Z}}}$$F2Z. It is defined by$$\sigma \mapsto \nu $$σ↦νwhere each$$\nu _i = \sigma _i + (\sigma _{i+1}+1)\sigma _{i+2}$$νi=σi+(σi+1+1)σi+2. A map$$\chi _n$$χnis a map that operates onn-bit arrays with periodic boundary conditions. This corresponds with$$\chi $$χrestricted to periodic infinite sequences with period that dividesn. This map$$\chi _n$$χnis used in various permutations, e.g.,Keccak-f (the permutation in SHA-3), ASCON (the NIST standard for lightweight cryptography), Xoodoo, Rasta and Subterranean (2.0). In this paper, we characterize the graph of$$\chi $$χon periodic sequences. It turns out that$$\chi $$χis surjective on the set ofallperiodic sequences. We will show what sequences will give collisions after one application of$$\chi $$χ. We prove that, for oddn, the order of$$\chi _n$$χn(in the group of bijective maps on$${\mathbb {F}}_2^n$$F2n) is$$2^{\lceil {\text {lg}}(\frac{n+1}{2})\rceil }$$2⌈lg(n+12)⌉. A given periodic sequence lies on a cycle in the graph of$$\chi $$χ, or it can be represented as a polynomial. By regarding the divisors of such a polynomial one can see whether it lies in a cycle, or after how many iterations of$$\chi $$χit will. Furthermore, we can see, for a given$$\sigma $$σ, the length of the cycle in its component in the state diagram. Finally, we extend the surjectivity of$$\chi $$χto$${\mathbb {F}}_2^{{\mathbb {Z}}}$$F2Z, thus to include non-periodic sequences.
Knowledge-based circular economics model for sustainable competitiveness: framework development and analysis
Authors: Van Luu Thanh , Chromjaková Felicita
Published: January 2024

Given the numerous changes in global consumption and production models that have occurred in recent years, promoting the development of a circular economy and a knowledge economy would appear to be an appropriate shift for sustainable development and competitiveness, yet no previous studies have integrated their adoption for sustainable competitiveness from the business aspects. This study aims to integrate knowledge-based circular economics adoption for sustainable competitiveness. The research conducts a comprehensive literature review and a critical analysis of secondary data from a real-world case. The main results are a framework development of knowledge-based circular economics and a critical analysis of a modified model toward sustainable competitiveness, that addresses the above gap and derives the originality and novelty of the paper. Future research is proposed in which statistical software, such as SPSS and SmartPLS-SEM, would be applied to validate hypotheses.
Effect of SILAR cycle on gas sensing properties of In2O3 thin films for CO gas sensor
Authors: Horoz Banu , Tuna Yıldırım Sümeyra , Soltabayev Baktiyar , Ateş Aytunç , Acar Selim , Yıldırım M. Ali
Published: January 2024

In2O3 thin films were deposited via Successive Ionic Layer Adsorption and Reaction (SILAR) method on glass substrates at 20, 30, 40, and 50 SILAR cycles. The effect of SILAR cycle on the general and CO gas sensing properties of the films was investigated. The GIXRD and FE-SEM results indicated that the films had cubic phase and porous morphology. As a function of temperature and gas concentration, CO gas sensing measurements of In2O3 thin film-based sensors were made, and the detection limit and operating temperature values were determined. The optimal operating temperature was found to be 222 °C for all sensors. The CO sensing results demonstrated that the sensor with 30 SILAR cycle had higher sensitivity for 1–100-ppm gas concentration values at 222 °C operating temperature than the others. The sensing responses of the sensors increased from 12 to 29% for 1-ppm CO gas and from 52 to 91% for 100-ppm CO gas at 222 °C, depending on the SILAR cycle. The detection limit of the sensors toward CO gas at 222 °C reached 1 ppm, and the response and recovery times of the sensor with 30 SILAR cycle were found to be 54.2 s and 49 s for 1-ppm CO, and 47.4 and 62.5 s for 100-ppm CO gas at 222 °C, respectively. The activation energy (Ea) values of the sensors were found to change between 0.08 and 0.15 eV in the temperature range of 300–340 K and between 0.700 and 0.749 eV in the temperature range of 350–520 K, with SILAR cycle number. Finally, in this study, it was revealed that SILAR cycle number changed the structural, morphological, and CO gas sensing properties of the In2O3 thin films, and SILAR cycle optimization was performed for the highly sensitive In2O3 thin film-based CO gas sensor.
Methods and tools to screen and assess risks for intimate partner violence among women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in six high-income countries: A scoping review
Authors: Lock Eliza , Reeves Karina , Vujcich Daniel
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this review is to collate literature on approaches to screening women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) backgrounds for experiences of intimate partner violence (IPV) and assessing risks, with a view to identifying examples of best practice and research gaps.

Methods

A scoping review methodology was adopted. Medline (Ovid), Embase, CINALH and CENTRAL databases were searched, with supplementary searches for grey literature. Results were independently screened by two reviewers. Studies were included if they focused on women from CaLD backgrounds living in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom or United States of America being screened/assessed in a health setting in relation to IPV. Data on study characteristics and key findings were extracted and critical appraisal of study quality was performed.

Results

A total of n = 1,320 results were yielded. After deduplication, the titles and abstracts of n = 846 studies were screened. A total of n = 5 studies were included in the final analysis, and four screening or risk assessment tools/methods were assessed (Danger Assessment for Immigrant Women, Safe Start, Index of Spouse Abuse and Southern Asian Violence Screen).

Conclusions

Given the documented barriers to migrant help-seeking, screening and risk assessment has an important role to play in ensuring that women from CaLD backgrounds are linked into appropriate IPV support services in a timely manner. However, there is very limited evidence to demonstrate that existing screening/risk assessment tools and strategies meet the specific needs of CaLD populations, and more attention needs to be given to intersectional experiences of violence.