bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AI chatbots show promise but limitations on UK medical exam questions: a comparative performance study
Authors: Sadeq Mohammed Ahmed , Ghorab Reem Mohamed Farouk , Ashry Mohamed Hady , Abozaid Ahmed Mohamed , Banihani Haneen A. , Salem Moustafa , Aisheh Mohammed Tawfiq Abu , Abuzahra Saad , Mourid Marina Ramzy , Assker Mohamad Monif , Ayyad Mohammed , Moawad Mostafa Hossam El Din
Published: August 2024

Large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT have potential applications in medical education such as helping students study for their licensing exams by discussing unclear questions with them. However, they require evaluation on these complex tasks. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how well publicly accessible LLMs performed on simulated UK medical board exam questions. 423 board-style questions from 9 UK exams (MRCS, MRCP, etc.) were answered by seven LLMs (ChatGPT-3.5, ChatGPT-4, Bard, Perplexity, Claude, Bing, Claude Instant). There were 406 multiple-choice, 13 true/false, and 4 "choose N" questions covering topics in surgery, pediatrics, and other disciplines. The accuracy of the output was graded. Statistics were used to analyze differences among LLMs. Leaked questions were excluded from the primary analysis. ChatGPT 4.0 scored (78.2%), Bing (67.2%), Claude (64.4%), and Claude Instant (62.9%). Perplexity scored the lowest (56.1%). Scores differed significantly between LLMs overall (p < 0.001) and in pairwise comparisons. All LLMs scored higher on multiple-choice vs true/false or “choose N” questions. LLMs demonstrated limitations in answering certain questions, indicating refinements needed before primary reliance in medical education. However, their expanding capabilities suggest a potential to improve training if thoughtfully implemented. Further research should explore specialty specific LLMs and optimal integration into medical curricula.
Classifying coherent versus nonsense speech perception from EEG using linguistic speech features
Authors: Puffay Corentin , Vanthornhout Jonas , Gillis Marlies , Clercq Pieter De , Accou Bernd , hamme Hugo Van , Francart Tom
Published: August 2024

When a person listens to natural speech, the relation between features of the speech signal and the corresponding evoked electroencephalogram (EEG) is indicative of neural processing of the speech signal. Using linguistic representations of speech, we investigate the differences in neural processing between speech in a native and foreign language that is not understood. We conducted experiments using three stimuli: a comprehensible language, an incomprehensible language, and randomly shuffled words from a comprehensible language, while recording the EEG signal of native Dutch-speaking participants. We modeled the neural tracking of linguistic features of the speech signals using a deep-learning model in a match-mismatch task that relates EEG signals to speech, while accounting for lexical segmentation features reflecting acoustic processing. The deep learning model effectively classifies coherent versus nonsense languages. We also observed significant differences in tracking patterns between comprehensible and incomprehensible speech stimuli within the same language. It demonstrates the potential of deep learning frameworks in measuring speech understanding objectively.
Machine learning analysis of serum cholesterol's impact on knee osteoarthritis progression
Authors: Li Hong-bo , Du Yong-jun , Kenmegne Guy Romeo , Kang Cheng-wei
Published: August 2024

The controversy surrounding whether serum total cholesterol is a risk factor for the graded progression of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) has prompted this study to develop an authentic prediction model using a machine learning (ML) algorithm. The objective was to investigate whether serum total cholesterol plays a significant role in the progression of KOA. This cross-sectional study utilized data from the public database DRYAD. LASSO regression was employed to identify risk factors associated with the graded progression of KOA. Additionally, six ML algorithms were utilized in conjunction with clinical features and relevant variables to construct a prediction model. The significance and ranking of variables were carefully analyzed. The variables incorporated in the model include JBS3, Diabetes, Hypertension, HDL, TC, BMI, SES, and AGE. Serum total cholesterol emerged as a significant risk factor for the graded progression of KOA in all six ML algorithms used for importance ranking. XGBoost algorithm was based on the combined best performance of the training and validation sets. The ML algorithm enables predictive modeling of risk factors for the progression of the KOA K–L classification and confirms that serum total cholesterol is an important risk factor for the progression of KOA.
Material engineering and application of hybrid biomimetic-de novo designed elastin-like polypeptides
Authors: Geng Zhuoran , Laakko Timo , Hokkanen Ari , Södergård Caj , Maasilta Ilari , Mohammadi Pezhman
Published: August 2024

The global concern over environmental consequences of petrochemical-derived plastics underscores the urgent need for sustainable and biodegradable polymers. In this context, elastin-like polypeptides emerge as a promising solution, offering multiple advantages, including remarkable mechanical properties, biocompatibility, customizable functionalities, and renewable sourcing through biosynthetic production in microbes, making them a compelling choice for various applications. We previously demonstrated accelerated engineering of a new class of elastin-like polypeptide‐based materials through hybrid biomimetic‐de novo predictive molecular design. The resulting variants exhibited enhanced molecular stability compared to their natural counterparts, catering to a range of technical applications that involve harsh downstream processing conditions. Here, we showcase the use of some of these previously discovered hybrid variants and illustrate the effective translation of the predicted molecular designs in structural and functional materials in several high-added-value applications. This includes multiscale drug-encapsulating vehicles with controlled release, multifunctional wound coverings, and all-aqueous-based biobased photoresists for creating 2D/3D microstructures.
Building machine learning prediction models for well-being using predictors from the exposome and genome in a population cohort
Authors: Pelt Dirk H. M. , Habets Philippe C. , Vinkers Christiaan H. , Ligthart Lannie , van Beijsterveldt Catharina E. M. , Pool René , Bartels Meike
Published: August 2024

Effective personalized well-being interventions require the ability to predict who will thrive or not, and the understanding of underlying mechanisms. Here, using longitudinal data of a large population cohort (the Netherlands Twin Register, collected 1991–2022), we aim to build machine learning prediction models for adult well-being from the exposome and genome, and identify the most predictive factors (N between 702 and 5874). The specific exposome was captured by parent and self-reports of psychosocial factors from childhood to adulthood, the genome was described by polygenic scores, and the general exposome was captured by linkage of participants’ postal codes to objective, registry-based exposures. Not the genome (R2 = −0.007 [−0.026–0.010]), but the general exposome (R2 = 0.047 [0.015–0.076]) and especially the specific exposome (R2 = 0.702 [0.637–0.753]) were predictive of well-being in an independent test set. Adding the genome (P = 0.334) and general exposome (P = 0.695) independently or jointly (P = 0.029) beyond the specific exposome did not improve prediction. Risk/protective factors such as optimism, personality, social support and neighborhood housing characteristics were most predictive. Our findings highlight the importance of longitudinal monitoring and promises of different data modalities for well-being prediction.
Lab-on-a-chip: A Road Map of Silicon Chemistry to Multipurpose Microfluidic Chips
Authors: Askarzadeh Neshat , Mohammadi Javad , Rabbani Hodjattallah , Hosseini Morteza
Published: August 2024

Microfluidics addresses the behavior, control, and manipulation of a small amount of fluids (10−6 to 10−12 L) through channels and wells. This interdisciplinary field comprises different applications in drug development, biosensors, environmental monitoring, micro-mixing, single-cell analysis, automated synthesis of nanoparticles, or Janus fibres, point-of-care testing, organ-on-a-chip, lab-on-a-chip, and more. Lab-on-a-chip devices can manage tiny fluid volumes, less than microliters, as they employ microfluidic channels and chambers to achieve automation and high-throughput screening in some applications, such as in vitro diagnostics. The success of microfluidic chip fabrication is mainly attributed to material research, which studies material properties such as transparency, biocompatibility, flexibility, gas permeability, cost, wettability, surface derivatization, manufacturing with high fidelity and simplicity, mechanical properties, and solvent compatibility to achieve the required functionality of the microfluidic chips. There are two sections in this chapter. The first section describes microfluidics, its multipurpose applications, and its evolution on a chip. The second part explains several available microfluidic chip fabrication materials, including glasses, polymers, papers, ceramics, hydrogels, and hybrids, and their application-oriented pros and cons. This section concludes with a description of silicon-based materials and their application in microfluidic chips, with examples.
When Earth Is Not Enough: Lab-on-a-chip Accelerating Space Research
Authors: Krakos A.
Published: August 2024

The popularity of lab-on-a-chip (LOC) instruments for space research has grown notably in recent times. The subject of space biology has become an especially interesting area in which the application of LOCs is expected to bring measurable benefits. The opportunity to investigate the behaviour of biological samples in microgravity and radiation conditions, utilizing reliable LOC instrumentation, provides new knowledge on specific and hitherto unknown cellular mechanisms. This, in turn, opens the way towards the development of novel biomedical methodologies and therapeutic strategies. This chapter reports on recent space-related research that has been conducted utilizing microfluidic technologies. The content covers investigations conducted on the International Space Station, as well as during satellites missions. Current knowledge regarding studies in simulated microgravity environments is also presented. The chapter ends with a discussion and provides perspectives for potential future applications of miniaturized LOC devices which corresponds to National Aeronautics and Space Administration and European Space Agency roadmaps.
Lab-on-a-chip: From Prototyping to Scale-up Production
Authors: Mathew Allen , Liu Dongsheng , Yu Mingzhi , Haasbroek Pieter , Wang Xinhui , Guan Tianyu , Zaki Sana , Su Quanliang , Li Jiaqi , Jagannath Akshaya , Chen Yixin , Kristiansen Per Magnus , Zhang Nan
Published: August 2024

This chapter focuses on the comprehensive overview of design, simulation, manufacturing, and scale-up techniques used in microfluidic chip fabrication. The chapter begins with an introduction to the lab-on-a-chip approach and explains the chip design and simulation methods. It also highlights the various software tools and methodologies used to optimize the chip performance, including computational fluid dynamics simulations. The next section focuses on prototyping techniques for translating designs into physical devices. Mainly, four crucial methods are addressed in detail: polydimethylsiloxane soft lithography, laser machining of polymers, hot embossing and 3D printing (especially Digital Light Processing). The benefits and drawbacks of each method for specific applications in microfluidic chip fabrication are detailed in this chapter. Different procedures related to the scale-up process are explained. These include electroforming, micromachining, tooling correction, micro injection molding, bonding techniques, surface treatment methods, and reagent storage strategies. Additionally, the integration of sensors and electrodes into the microfluidic chip is explored, presenting the importance of seamless integration for accomplishing enhanced performance. Quality control and performance validation are addressed at the end of the chapter. This book chapter serves as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and scientists working in the field of microfluidic chip fabrication.
Retraction: In situ construction of S-scheme heterojunction-conjugated polymer/g-C3N4 photocatalysts for enhanced H2 production and organic pollutant degradation
Authors: Mao Na
Published: August 2024

Retraction of ‘In situ construction of S-scheme heterojunction-conjugated polymer/g-C3N4 photocatalysts for enhanced H2 production and organic pollutant degradation’ by Na Mao, Catal. Sci. Technol., 2023, 13, 4197–4206, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3CY00248A.
Structural modification of nickel tetra(thiocyano)corroles during electrochemical water oxidation
Authors: Nayak Panisha , Singh Ajit Kumar , Nayak Manisha , Kar Subhajit , Sahu Kasturi , Meena Kiran , Topwal Dinesh , Indra Arindam , Kar Sanjib
Published: August 2024

Utilizing nickel(ii)-corrole@CC as an electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction in an alkaline medium reveals the coexistence of both the molecular complex and Ni(O)OH, achieving a turnover frequency of 3.32 × 10−2 s−1.
Optimizing post-synthetic metal incorporation in mixed-linker MOFs: insights from metalation studies on bipyridine-containing UiO-67 single crystals
Authors: Gschwind Wanja , Nagy Gyula , Primetzhofer Daniel , Ott Sascha
Published: August 2024

Linker ratios in mixed linker MOFs affect the distribution of post-synthetically introduced metal ions. Depth profiles of metalated UiO-67-bipyridine single crystals obtained by μ-RBS reveal that higher bipyridine ratios slow down metal diffusion.
An Au25 nanocluster/MoS2 vdWaals heterojunction phototransistor for chromamorphic visual-afterimage emulation
Authors: Huang Zhuohui , Tong Chuanjia , Zhao Yanbo , Jiang Leyong , Deng Lianwen , Gao Xiaohui , He Jun , Jiang Jie
Published: August 2024

An Au25 nanocluster/2D-MoS2 vdWaals heterojunction phototransistor achieves intriguing chromamorphic functions through a color spatiotemporal coupling approach, providing a fascinating opportunity for artificial visual color perception systems.
Modulating the bandgap of Cr-intercalated bilayer graphene via combining the 18-electron rule and the 2D superatomic-molecule theory
Authors: Li Dan , Gui Zaijun , Ling Mengxuan , Guo Lijiao , Wang Zhifang , Yuan Qinqin , Cheng Longjiu
Published: August 2024

The bandgap of Cr-intercalated bilayer graphene can be modulated via combined satisfaction of the 18-electron rule and the 2D superatomic-molecule theory.
Atomically precise alkynyl-protected Ag19Cu2 nanoclusters: synthesis, structure analysis, and electrocatalytic CO2 reduction application
Authors: Zhu Xin , Zhu Pan , Cong Xuzi , Ma Guanyu , Tang Qing , Wang Likai , Tang Zhenghua
Published: August 2024

We report the synthesis, structure analysis, and electrocatalytic CO2 reduction application of alkynyl-protected Ag19Cu2 nanoclusters, which exhibited high selectivity of CO formation and robust stability in eCO2RR.
Correction: Hybrid 2D perovskite and red emitting carbon dot composite for improved stability and efficiency of LEDs
Authors: Singh Pannu Amandeep , Sen Suvankar , Wang Xiaodong (Tony) , Jones Robert , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken) , Sonar Prashant
Published: August 2024

Correction for ‘Hybrid 2D perovskite and red emitting carbon dot composite for improved stability and efficiency of LEDs’ by Amandeep Singh Pannu et al., Nanoscale, 2023, 15, 2659–2666, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2NR06942C.
Chemical modulation of AIREIIICIVQVI4 family compounds for band gap and optical anisotropy enhancement
Authors: Wang Hongshan , Pan Xueting , Pan Shilie , Li Junjie
Published: August 2024

By introducing [AgS3] and [NaQ6] (Q = S, Se) into the AIREIIICIVQVI4 family, four new RE-based chalcogenides with wide band gaps and large birefringence have been rationally designed and fabricated.
Bi-Blatter diradicals: conformation and substituent dependent high-spin materials
Authors: Pomikło Dominika , Szamweber Patrycja , Pietrzak Anna , Kaszyński Piotr
Published: August 2024

A class of unusual triplet diradicals: two stable conformers in two regioisomers have different ΔES–T, which define their net magnetic behavior.
Nitrous oxide as diazo transfer reagent
Authors: Genoux Alexandre , Severin Kay
Published: August 2024

The review summarizes the use of nitrous oxide (N2O, ‘laughing gas’) as a diazo transfer reagent in synthetic chemistry.
Spatiotemporal control of structure and dynamics in a polar active fluid
Authors: Ghosh Saptorshi , Joshi Chaitanya , Baskaran Aparna , Hagan Michael F.
Published: August 2024

We apply optimal control theory to drive a polar active fluid into new behaviors: relocating asters, reorienting waves, and on-demand switching between states. This study reveals general principles to program active matter for useful functions.
Light-controllable liquid crystal platform for microparticle oscillations and transport
Authors: Shvetsov Sergey , Orlova Tetiana , Hayrapetyan Aleksandr , Vasil'ev Alexey , Rafayelyan Mushegh
Published: August 2024

Microparticles exhibit light-driven trapping, oscillation, rotation, and complex motions in free-surface liquid crystal films due to Marangoni convection and related director deformations.
Magnetic polyvinylpolypyrrolidone polymer composite-supported copper(i) catalyst: an efficient and easily reusable catalyst for sustainable synthesis of 1,2,3-triazoles in water
Authors: Aflak Noura , Essebbar Fatima-Ezzahraa , Bahsis Lahoucine , Ben El Ayouchia Hicham , Anane Hafid , Julve Miguel , Stiriba Salah-Eddine
Published: August 2024

Highlighting the efficiency and sustainable use of magnetic polyvinylpolypyrrolidone polymer composite-supported copper(i) catalyst for the synthesis of 1,4-disubstituted-1,2,3-triazoles in water.
Incorporating Parents' Lived Experiences Into the Pediatric Audiology Course: A Qualitative Analysis of Student Reflections
Authors: Alanazi Ahmad A. , Nicholson Nannette
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

This study explores the underutilized pedagogical approach of incorporating lived experiences of parents with children possessing diverse hearing profiles and their family characteristics into the audiology curriculum for students. The aim was to investigate the impact of integrating such experiences into the classroom as an andragogical learning experience through the qualitative analysis of written student reflections.

Method:

Twelve (
N
= 12) third-year female audiology students enrolled in a pediatric auditory (re)habilitation course attended a parent panel presentation during their regularly scheduled face-to-face class. Five parents of children with diverse hearing differences and diverse technology, communication, and educational choices participated on the panel as guest speakers via the Zoom platform. Students completed written reflections based on Rolfe's reflective framework. Written reflections were downloaded from Canvas and de-identified prior to uploading to NVivo software for coding, utilizing an inductive grounded theory coding strategy coupled with content analysis.

Findings:

This study underscores the effectiveness of written reflections as an effective andragogical learning model. Through reflective practice, students gained a deeper understanding of their experiences, values, and learning journeys, enhancing their competency in pediatric audiology and auditory (re)habilitation. Students articulated previous knowledge and learning experiences, utilized newfound insights from exposure to the parent panel of shared lived experiences, and connected this knowledge with future clinical applications.

Conclusions:

Key findings underscore the effectiveness of reflective practice as an andragogical learning model, facilitating the integration of prior experiences with new knowledge. Moreover, it aids the transition of the professional journey from the familiar to the unfamiliar, demonstrating the impact of combining real-world lived experiences to reinforce and highlight classroom topics. Additionally, reflective practice enhances professional efficacy by valuing patient/parent perspectives regarding clinical care and aligning with evidence-based principles.
Enabling artificial intelligence‐based scenario application in new type power systems
Authors: Fan Shixiong , Guo Jianbo , Ma Shicong , Wang Guozheng , Li Dongqi , Zhao Zening
Published: August 2024

At present, artificial intelligence (AI) technology, as a disruptive and frontier technology, is changing people's production and lifestyle with the cross combination of other scientific fields. Under the background of Green and low‐carbon transition in energy, the construction of new type power systems (NTPS) is the future direction of the transformation and development of the power industry. AI is an important supporting technology for the digital transformation of the power industry, which can accelerate the construction of NTPS and new energy systems. This article provides the author's viewpoints on application of AI technologies in NTPS, mainly involving the development of electric power AI and the main problems it currently faced. The discussion on the bottlenecks of AI application will be focused on data and models. Some future research directions are also presented.
Artificial intelligence driving perception, cognition, decision‐making and deduction in energy systems: State‐of‐the‐art and potential directions
Authors: Dong ZhaoYang , Wang Tianjing
Published: August 2024

In the context of energy systems, managing the complex interplay between diverse power sources and dynamic demands is crucial. With a focus on smart grid technology, continuously innovating artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, such as deep learning, reinforcement learning, and large language model technologies, have been or have the potential to be leveraged to predict energy consumption patterns, enhance grid operation, and manage distributed energy resources efficiently. These capabilities are essential to meet the requirements of perception, cognition, decision‐making, and deduction in energy systems. Nevertheless, there are some critical challenges in efficiency, interpretability, transferability, stability, economy, and robustness. To overcome these challenges, we propose critical potential directions in future research, including reasonable sample generation, training models with small datasets, enhancing transfer ability, combining with physics models, collective generative pre‐trained transformer‐agents, multiple foundation models, and improving system robustness, to make advancing AI technologies more suitable for practical engineering.
Transient stability of grid following inverters: The impacts of damping and fault ride‐through
Authors: Zhang Qi , Gu Yunjie , Liu Dong , Wang Chenxu , Yang Kehu , Chen Zhe
Published: August 2024

The interaction of grid following inverters with a weak grid raises risks of transient instability. The effects of damping and fault‐ride through (FRT) make the transient dynamics more complicated. To investigate the impact of FRT on the transient stability of converters, this paper first employs the switch system theory to construct a mathematical model for the synchronous mechanism of inverters. Secondly, the method of semi‐algebraic system real root classification is comprehensively used to analyse the existence of equilibrium points (EPs) and provide necessary and sufficient conditions for their existence. Finally, based on the theory of differential geometry, a method for computing the stability domain of converters is proposed. Compared with traditional methods, the results obtained from this approach are precise and non‐conservative. The study in this paper indicates that the equivalent damping effect from the proportional control in a phase‐locked loop significantly enlarges the stability region, whereas the active current injection shrinks the stability region. The reactive current droop characteristic also has impacts on the stability region, especially with active current injection. The switchover between the droop mode and constant current mode requires extra precaution in the calculation of the EPs and critical fault clearing time.
La biosécurité en élevage de bovins :
biosécurité et bio-prévention
Authors: Dufour Barbara , Payne Ariane , Grimaud Yannick , Cardinale Eric
Published: August 2024

La biosécurité se décline en deux grandes notions : la biosécurité externe correspondant à la protection de l’élevage vis-à-vis des risques de contamination provenant de l’extérieur, et la biosécurité interne correspondant à la limitation de la circulation des agents pathogènes au sein d’un même élevage.

Les agents pathogènes peuvent être introduits dans un élevage bovin par des animaux en provenance d’autres troupeaux (achat prêt, mise en pension, voisinage de pâtures), des contacts indirects avec d’autres troupeaux via du voisinage proche, du matériel commun ; des visiteurs ; des contacts avec la faune sauvage infectée ; et des insectes vecteurs pour certaines maladies.

La biosécurité externe consiste en la lutte contre ces voies d’introduction par des mesures adaptées et spécifiques pour chaque élevage.

La biosécurité interne générale consiste à éviter la dissémination au sein de l’élevage des pathogènes venants d’y être introduit, et à lutter contre la dissémination et la multiplication du microbisme déjà présent dans l’élevage.

La biosécurité interne spécifique a pour but de lutter contre la diffusion au sein d’un élevage d’un pathogène particulier qui vient d’y pénétrer. Les mesures prises doivent être alors adaptées au mode de transmission majoritaire de ces agents pathogènes.

La plupart des mesures à mettre en œuvre sont rappelées dans cet article qui présente également comment lutter contre les risques liés à la faune sauvage.

Le vétérinaire sanitaire, le mieux placé pour décliner avec chaque éleveur un véritable plan de biosécurité adapté à chaque élevage, doit jouer un rôle prépondérant dans l’amélioration de la biosécurité des élevages bovins : Son attitude et ses pratiques devraient témoigner quotidiennement de ses préoccupations en matière de biosécurité.
Thrombosehäufigkeit bei ambulanten Post-COVID-Patienten
Authors: Murena-Schmidt Laurenz , Murena-Schmidt Renate , Franzen Damian
Published: August 2024

Ziel der Studie Ziel dieser prospektiven Pilotstudie war es, im ambulanten Krankengut einer phlebologischen Schwerpunktpraxis zu ermitteln, ob im Intervall 2–4 Monate post-COVID mit einer erhöhten Inzidenz thromboembolischer Ereignisse zu rechnen ist.

Methodik Im Rahmen einer systematischen Nachuntersuchung von COVID-Folgeerkrankungen wurden 103 konsekutive Patienten zur Teilnahme an einer phlebologischen Untersuchung eingeschlossen. Diese umfasste nach einem standardisierten Untersuchungsprotokoll neben der Anamnese die Bestimmung der klinischen Wahrscheinlichkeit nach Wells, die komplette Kompressions- und Farbduplexsonografie und die laborchemische Bestimmung der D-Dimere.

Ergebnisse Insgesamt ließen sich 4 thrombotische Ereignisse nachweisen (3,9%). Davon betrafen 2 das tiefe (1,9%) und 2 das oberflächliche (1,9%) Beinvenensystem. In Bezug auf das durchschnittliche Patientengut der phlebologischen Schwerpunktpraxis (TVT-Häufigkeit von 1,48%) ergab sich jedoch keine signifikante TVT-Häufung in dem hier untersuchten Kollektiv (p=0,69).

Schlussfolgerung Die auffällige, aber insgesamt relativ niedrige Inzidenz von Thrombosen als Folge einer SARS-CoV-2-Infektion stützt die Annahme, dass Patienten mit erhöhtem Thromboserisikoprofil nicht nur in der Akutphase der COVID-Infektion, sondern auch noch nach 2–4 Monaten post-COVID einer vermehrten Aufmerksamkeit bedürfen.
Aneurysma spurium nach endovenöser Laserablation einer Rezidivvarikose der Vena saphena parva
Authors: Willenberg Torsten , Haine Axel , Ducommun Jean-Claude
Published: August 2024

Wir berichten über einen 70-jährigen Patienten, der aufgrund einer Rezidivvarikose der linken V. saphena parva einer endovenösen Laserablation mit 1470nm unterzogen wurde. Der Patient klagte bereits kurz nach der Behandlung über Schmerzen in der oberen Wadenregion. Die erste postinterventionelle Kontrolle 2 Tage später zeigte ein Aneurysma spurium am dorsalen Unterschenkel unterhalb der Fossa poplitea. Der Befund wurde zunächst mit einer Thrombininjektion versorgt, rezidivierte jedoch und musste schließlich mit einer intraarteriellen Coil-Embolisation behandelt werden. Diese Arbeit soll endovenöse Therapeuten auf eine sehr seltene Komplikation aufmerksam machen.
Use of peroral cholangiopancreatoscopy-assisted endoscopic mucosal resection for biliopancreatic intraductal lesions
Authors: Zhang Wengang , Zhai Yaqi , Shao Bozong , Wang Jiafeng , Wu Qingzhen , Chai Ningli , Linghu Enqiang
Published: August 2024

Background This study aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of performing cholangiopancreatoscopy-assisted endoscopic mucosal resection (CA-EMR) for biliopancreatic intraductal lesions.

Methods Special electrocautery snares and injection needles that can pass through the working channel of a single-operator cholangiopancreatoscope were developed. Between November 2023 and April 2024, we performed CA-EMR for two patients with gallbladder polyps, one patient with a neoplastic lesion in the common bile duct (CBD), and one patient with a neoplastic lesion in the main pancreatic duct. The technical success rate and adverse events were recorded.

Results All four CA-EMR procedures were performed successfully. Postoperative pathology revealed inflammatory gallbladder polyps in two patients, low grade intraepithelial neoplasia of the CBD in one patient, and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) in one patient. The patient with IPMN experienced mild postoperative pancreatitis and recovered after conservative treatment. No adverse events were encountered in the other three CA-EMR procedures.

Conclusion This study preliminarily confirmed the feasibility and safety of CA-EMR for treating biliopancreatic intraductal lesions.
Training in Public Health Informatics and Technology Leveraging a Multi-institutional Partnership Model and Emphasizing Experiential Learning
Authors: Rajamani Sripriya , Waterfield Kristie C. , Austin Robin , Singletary Vivian , Odowa Yasmin , Miles-Richardson Stephanie , Winters Tony , Powers Brenton , LaRoche Feather , Trachet Sarah , Fritz Jennifer , Leider Jonathon P. , Wurtz Rebecca , Shah Gulzar H.
Published: August 2024

Background and Objective Though public health is an information-intense profession, there is a paucity of workforce with Public Health Informatics and Technology (PHIT) skills, which was evident during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This need is addressed through the PHIT workforce program (2021–2025) by the Office of the National Coordinator for training and to increase racial and ethnic diversity in the PHIT workforce. The objective is to share details on the Training in Informatics for Underrepresented Minorities in Public Health (TRIUMPH) consortium, funded by the PHIT workforce program.

Methods The TRIUMPH consortium is a collaboration between academic and practice partners with a commitment to training 879 students in PHIT. The Schools of Public Health and Nursing at the University of Minnesota, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health at Georgia Southern University, Morehouse School of Medicine, and Public Health Informatics Institute offer PHIT training through various programs. Academic institutions focus on student recruitment, developing courses/curriculum, and granting degrees/certificates, and the role of practice partners is to support experiential learning through internships/practicums.

Results The TRIUMPH consortium is progressing toward its goals, with 692 students (79%) already trained in a PHIT modality as of December 2023. The learners comprise diverse race/ethnicity, including White (48%), Black/African American (32%), Asian (10%), White Hispanic (5%), American Indian/Alaska Native (2%), and Black Hispanic (1%). Numerous internships have been completed in settings ranging from state/local public health agencies to health care delivery systems. Diversity initiatives were supported by partnering with existing programs (e.g., the AMIA First Look program and the Nursing Knowledge Big Data Science conference).

Conclusion This consortium model is an excellent approach to informatics training and sharing expertise across partners. It provides scalability and broader geographic outreach while presenting opportunities to students from underrepresented backgrounds. Lessons learned have implications for overall informatics training (e.g., partnerships models, promoting racial/ethnic diversity).
Spectrum of Somatic Malignancy in Testicular Germ Cell Tumors—A Histopathological Review of 25 Cases with Clinical Outcome
Authors: Subramanian Priyadarsani , Arora Amandeep , Pal Mahendra , Prakash Gagan , Maitre Priyamvada , Murthy Vedang , Joshi Amit , Rane Swapnil , Desai Sangeeta , Menon Santosh
Published: August 2024

Introduction Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are the commonest testicular malignancy in young males. These tumors are highly chemoresponsive, however become resistant to conventional therapy when a somatic-type malignancy (SM) develops, which happens in ∼3 to 6% of the cases.

Methods We reviewed the histologic profile of all cases of testicular/retroperitoneal GCT with SM, diagnosed over a period of 12 years in our institute. Correlation of histologic profile with clinical outcome was done wherever feasible.

Results A total of 25 cases of testicular/retroperitoneal GCT with SM were identified for review. The histological spectrum of SMs included carcinoma (n = 9), sarcoma (n = 9), embryonic-type neuroectodermal tumor (ENET) (n = 4), and other rare histological types (n = 3). SMs were frequently seen at the resected metastatic sites (n = 13) and in postchemotherapy setting (n = 12); 14 cases had concurrent GCT and SM at the time of diagnosis/initial resection and 9 cases presented as late relapses (more than 2 years after initial presentation). Four patients were treated with metastasectomy and lymph node dissection, six patients were treated with combined resection and chemotherapy, and nine patients were treated with only adjuvant chemotherapy. The patients with SM confined to testis and those treated with multimodality approach had relatively better outcome.

Conclusion GCTs with SM are a highly heterogeneous group of tumors with varying histologic types and management strategies. Strict adherence to histological diagnostic criteria, differentiating these tumors from close mimics such as glandular and sarcomatoid yolk sac tumors, teratomatous overgrowth, and a new second primary somatic tumor are important due to implications in management and prognosis.
Imaging in Neurotuberculosis
Authors: Agarwal Sushant , Charan Bheru Dan , Shah Shariq Ahmad , Singh Ekamjot , Garg Ajay
Published: August 2024

Central nervous system tuberculosis can occur in various forms and carries high morbidity despite anti-tubercular treatment. Accurate and early diagnosis based on imaging can help improve prognosis and prevent complications. Confirmation of tubercular bacteria in CSF culture methods, and molecular analysis poses challenges due to invasive and time-consuming procedures. Advanced neuroimaging techniques are greatly helpful in making presumptive diagnoses. Here we described imaging features of multiple forms of CNS tuberculosis with advanced neuroimaging. This paper will help neuroradiologists to identify CNS TB and related imaging features.
Multiphasic Computed Tomography Enhancement Characteristics and Utility of Delayed Phase in Infiltrative Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Singh Tarvinder , Mehta Nandita , Gupta Pankaj , Gulati Ajay , Gulati Mudita , Kalra Naveen , Premkumar Madhumita , Taneja Sunil , Jearth Vaneet , Sharma Vishal , Duseja Ajay
Published: August 2024

Objective The aims of this study are to compare the multiphasic contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) characteristics of infiltrative hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with nodular HCC and to assess the conspicuity of infiltrative HCC on different phases of CECT.

Materials and Methods This retrospective study comprised consecutive treatment-naive cirrhotic patients diagnosed with infiltrative and nodular HCC between January 2020 and December 2021 based on a multiphasic CECT (comprising arterial, portal venous, and delayed phases). The diagnosis of HCC was based on the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) v2018 criteria (LR-4 and LR-5 lesions). Infiltrative HCCs are characterized by large, irregular, permeative lesions spread over multiple liver segments or lobes. Nodular HCCs comprise well-defined tumor nodules. Two radiologists independently reviewed all CT images. Additionally, lesion conspicuity on the arterial, portal venous, and delayed phases was assessed.

Results One hundred fifty-eight patients (117 nodular and 41 infiltrative HCCs; mean age: 55.6 ± 17.2 years; 90 [56.9%] males) were included. Arterial phase hyperenhancement, portal venous/delayed phase washout, and delayed phase enhancing capsule were significantly associated with nodular HCCs (p = 0.002, 0.0001, and <0.0001, respectively). Portal vein, hepatic vein thrombosis, biliary dilatation, and ascites were significantly associated with infiltrative HCCs (p < 0.0001, 0.004, <0.0001, and 0.003, respectively). The interobserver agreement for the conspicuity of infiltrative HCC was the highest for the delayed phase (weighted kappa = 0.611).

Conclusion Infiltrative HCCs show the major LI-RADS features less frequently compared with nodular HCCs, and venous thrombosis is an important clue to the diagnosis. The delayed phase of multiphasic CECT is critical to identifying these lesions.
Whiteness at the abyss: reflections on a scene of attack
Authors: Hook Derek
Published: August 2024

This paper focusses on a series of online attacks that the author was subjected to after comments he had made in a closed lecture on the topic of ‘white anxiety’ were cut from the zoom recording and distributed widely online with the clear intent of causing outrage. The analysis of the material, which combines thematic, discourse analytic and personal reflections, yielded a series of core themes: 1) the role of the messages in consolidating an identity, 2) performative offensiveness, 3) perverse intimidations, 4) accusations/denials/expressions of racism, 5) the race-traitor as ideological dilemma, 6) antisemitism and 7) aggressive cordiality. The paper closes with a few reflections on the author’s enunciative position in respect of the attacks.
Aid allocation across the humanitarian-development-peace nexus: the role of fragility as a donors’ motive
Authors: Yabe Kazuma , Opršal Zdeněk , Harmáček Jaromír , Syrovátka Miroslav
Published: August 2024

Fragility continues to present major challenges to achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). International aid, particularly the Official Development Assistance (ODA), is a critical source of finance to deliver humanitarian assistance, development projects, and peace operations in fragile contexts. This study analyses if and how donors are motivated by fragility in their aid allocation across the humanitarian-development-peace nexus. Employing the random-effect Tobit method, the role of fragility as a donors’ motive is analysed alongside three conventional categories of motives: self-interest, recipients’ needs, and merit. The empirical analysis demonstrates an association between aid allocation across the nexus and fragility, but also a great degree of heterogeneity depending on the donor and the pillar of the nexus. It also detects a significant difference between how the state of fragility correlates with aid allocation and how the degree of fragility does so.
In situ fabrication of perovskite nanocrystals with Dion–Jacobson phase for high-performance blue light-emitting diodes
Authors: Wang Yang , Zhu Xiaodong , Jia Haoran , Xu Donghui , Liu Xiangyang , Bai Yiming , Bian Xingming , Wang Fuzhi , Li Meicheng , Tan Zhan'ao
Published: August 2024

Blue perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) based on pure bromide compositions exhibit notable potential attributed to their stable performance and the absence of halogen phase separation. Nevertheless, a considerable challenge persists in the effective suppression of narrow-bandgap emission phases to ensure optimal color purity. In this investigation, we delve into the utilization of zwitterionic β-alanine (β-Ala) to facilitate the formation of nanocrystalline-structured perovskite. β-Ala, possessing both amino and carboxyl groups, is an effective passivating agent for various defect sites on the perovskite's surface, exhibiting versatility through multiple binding modes. This irregular passivation pattern strategically hinders the perovskite from adopting a conventional quasi-2D layered structure. Through the strategic implementation of diamine ligands and CsBr to modulate the growth process, we successfully engineered quasi-2D perovskite nanocrystals with Dion–Jacobson phase (Q-2D PNCs) via an in situ coordination process. The application of the PNCs as emitters in blue PeLEDs yielded promising outcomes. The pure blue PeLED with electroluminescent peak at 473 nm achieves a maximum brightness and external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 8005 cd/m2 and 8.91%, respectively. Additionally, PeLEDs with sky blue emission (479 nm) exhibited a maximum brightness and EQE of 9431 cd/m2 and 10.02%, respectively.
2D calculation method on global stability safety factor of diaphragm wall slurry trench based on minimum potential energy principle
Authors: Wang Lin , Shao Guojian , Fan Yuebo , Su Jingbo , Sun Yang , Guan Dawei , Yao Sen , Li Chunyu
Published: August 2024

In order to limit the phenomenon that the global stability safety factor (GSF) of the diaphragm wall slurry trench calculated by the two-dimensional (2D) wedge method is too small, the 2D calculation model on global instability of trench wall is established by assuming the whole critical failure surface (CFS) is a quarter elliptic cylindrical surface, and the determination method of CFS is given too. In view of the successful application of the minimum potential energy principle in slope stability checking calculation and on the basis of the new model established, the 2D minimum potential energy method for calculating the GSF is proposed according to the minimum potential energy principle. The correctness of the 2D calculation model built and the rationality of the 2D calculation method proposed are verified based on ten engineering cases, and the sensitivity of the GSF to various parameters is analyzed on the basis of six design examples. Finally, the new calculation method is applied to the global stability checking calculation of trench wall in practical engineering, and the result shows the new calculation method given in this paper is still conservative, so the result calculated by the new calculation method is advised to be multiplied by a modification factor of 1.67 in practical application.
Advances in InGaN-based RGB micro-light-emitting diodes for AR applications: Status and perspective
Authors: Li Panpan , Ewing Jacob , Wong Matthew S. , Yao Yifan , Li Hongjian , Gandrothula Srinivas , Smith Jordan M. , Iza Mike , Nakamura Shuji , DenBaars Steven P.
Published: August 2024

Micro-light-emitting diodes (µLEDs) are gathering significant interest as a technology for emerging micro-displays. However, µLEDs encounter numerous obstacles, including size-dependent efficiency loss, poor efficiency of red µLEDs, and challenges associated with the mass transfer and integration of full-color µLEDs. These issues become more acute in ultra-small µLEDs (<5 µm), which were required by the augmented reality (AR) displays. Here, we discuss the principal challenges faced by µLEDs and explore the possible solutions. We highlight recent advances in InGaN-based RGB µLEDs tailored for AR displays. In particular, we discuss the advancements in ultra-small InGaN µLEDs scaled down to 1 µm, the developments in InGaN red µLEDs, and the implementation of tunnel junction-based cascaded InGaN µLEDs for monolithic integration.
Scalar cosmological perturbations from quantum gravitational entanglement
Authors: Jercher Alexander F , Marchetti Luca , Pithis Andreas G A
Published: August 2024

A major challenge at the interface of quantum gravity (QG) and cosmology is to explain the emergence of the large-scale structure of the Universe from Planck scale physics. In this letter, we extract the dynamics of scalar isotropic cosmological perturbations from full QG, as described by the causally complete Barrett–Crane group field theory (GFT) model. From the perspective of the underlying QG theory, cosmological perturbations are represented as nearest-neighbor two-body entanglement of GFT quanta. Their effective dynamics is obtained via mean-field methods and described relationally with respect to a causally coupled physical Lorentz frame. We quantitatively study these effective dynamical equations and show that at low energies they are perfectly consistent with those of general relativity, while for trans-Planckian scales quantum effects become important. These results therefore not only provide crucial insights into the potentially purely quantum gravitational nature of cosmological perturbations, but also offer rich phenomenological implications for the physics of the early Universe.
Light-element and purely charge-based topological materials
Authors: Derriche Nassim , Franz Marcel , Sawatzky George
Published: August 2024

We examine a class of Hamiltonians characterized by interatomic, interorbital even–odd parity hybridization as a model for a family of topological insulators without the need for spin–orbit coupling. Non-trivial properties of these materials are exemplified by studying the topologically-protected edge states of s-p hybridized alkali and alkaline earth atoms in one and two-dimensional lattices. In 1D the topological features are analogous to the canonical Su–Schrieffer–Heeger model but, remarkably, occur in the absence of dimerization. Alkaline earth chains, with Be standing out due to its gap size and near particle-hole symmetry, are of particular experimental interest since their Fermi energy without doping lies directly at the level of topological edge states. Similar physics is demonstrated to occur in a 2D honeycomb lattice system of s-p bonded atoms, where dispersive edge states emerge. Lighter elements are predicted using this model to host topological states in contrast to spin–orbit coupling-induced band inversion favoring heavier atoms.