bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case of adrenal metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration
Authors: Ueda Tsuyoshi , Oe Shinji , Yoneda Akitoshi , Koya Yudai , Nebuya Satoru , Miyagawa Koichiro , Honma Yuichi , Shibata Michihiko , Shimajiri Shohei , Harada Masaru
Published: April 2024

An 82‐year‐old man had been treated for lung adenocarcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography examination showed swelling of the left adrenal gland, suggesting metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma, HCC, or primary adrenal tumor. Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) was performed for the pathological diagnosis, and adrenal metastasis of HCC was diagnosed. No notable complications due to EUS‐FNA were found. There have been reports of adrenal metastasis due to various cancers, but there are few reports that can confirm the diagnosis of adrenal metastasis of HCC using EUS‐FNA. Adrenal metastasis of HCC is not a rare condition, but it may be difficult to diagnose in the case of multiple cancer complications. We experienced a case in which EUS‐FNA was useful for the diagnosis of adrenal metastasis of HCC.
Response of diademed sifaka (Propithecus diadema) to fosa (Cryptoprocta ferox) predation in the Betampona Strict Nature Reserve, Madagascar
Authors: Bonadonna G. , Ramilijaona O. M. , Raharivololona B. M. , Andrianarimisa A. , Razafindraibe H. , Freeman K. , Rasambainarivo F. , Wroblewski E. E. , Milich K. M.
Published: April 2024

Large‐bodied mammals living in fragmented habitats are at higher risk of extinction, and such risk can be influenced by ecological factors such as predator–prey system dynamics. These dynamics can be particularly complex for conservation management when one endangered species preys on another endangered species in an isolated or poor‐quality habitat. Here we describe predation events observed over 19 months that involved two threatened species: the largest carnivore in Madagascar, the fosa (Cryptoprocta ferox), and three groups of diademed sifaka (Propithecus diadema) in the Betampona Strict Nature Reserve. This site is a 22 km2 low‐altitude rainforest that is surrounded by agricultural land and isolated from larger forest corridors. We aim to (1) assess the behavioral changes of P. diadema in response to fosa attacks and identify any antipredator strategies that they adopted, and (2) quantify the frequency of fosa attacks and the predation impact on the sifaka population. We report five direct observations of fosa predation attempts (one successful), the discovery of a dead sifaka with evidence of fosa predation, and the disappearance of three individuals. We describe the observed attacks and compare the sifaka activity budgets and movement patterns before and after the events. To escape the predator, sifakas fled short distances, hid, and remained vigilant. The impact of predation, combined with low reproductive rates and potentially high inbreeding of this isolated diademed sifaka population, could affect the survival of this species in Betampona. Given the compounding effects of habitat isolation and high hunting pressure, community‐specific conservation strategies should incorporate predator–prey dynamics via longitudinal monitoring of predator and prey population densities and quantifying the predation pressure between them.
Governing sustainable corridor development: A case study of the Gilimanuk–Denpasar–Padang Bai corridor in Indonesia
Authors: Djais Gitasanti , Fransen Jan , Koppenjan Joop
Published: April 2024

In regional planning, and more specifically transport corridor development, sustainability is often overshadowed by economic ambitions and prospects. This contribution explores how the governance of corridor development processes can enhance sustainability. It presents findings from the planning process for the Gilimanuk–Denpasar–Padang Bai (GDP) Corridor in Bali, Indonesia. The analysis is guided by a theoretical framework that builds on literature on regional development, corridor development, sustainability and governance. Using process tracing, the analysis investigates the influence of five governance factors on the process of sustainable corridor development and its outcomes, notably the presence of a sustainability vision, the governance mode, the actor constellation, the available knowledge, and the institutional setting. Whereas literature on sustainable corridors suggests that governance structures and corridor management are needed, this contribution analysis how and under what conditions these structures in practice contribute to sustainable outcomes. The findings show how the original economic focus of the corridor gradually evolved into a more sustainable one, although not all potentials were realized. These illustrate that sustainable corridors require governance of interaction processes, involving a dynamic and contextualized constellation of governance factors, that co‐evolves during the planning process. Despite that the GDP corridor gradually developed into a more sustainable direction, the presence of a sustainability rather than an economic focus from the onset would have increased the potentials of realizing sustainability ambitions.
Spillover effects on the relationship with the partner of a mentalization‐based intervention for pregnant women
Authors: Berthelot Nicolas , Larouche Karl , Garon‐Bissonnette Julia , Deschênes Kim , Drouin‐Maziade Christine , Lemieux Roxanne
Published: April 2024

The birth of a child has been associated with a decline in couple satisfaction, which has implications for the child's social‐emotional development. This study investigated the potential spillover effect on pregnant women's perceptions of their relationships with their partners of the Supporting the Transition to and Engagement in Parenthood (STEP) program, a brief trauma‐informed mentalization‐based prenatal group intervention. Participants (94% White) were recruited in prenatal clinics and through online advertisements in Quebec, Canada. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected from participants assigned to the STEP program (n = 42) and those receiving treatment‐as‐usual (TAU; n = 125). Women participating in STEP reported significant improvements in their relationships with their partners compared to those assigned to TAU. More precisely, they reported higher couple satisfaction, enhanced communication, and increased interest in their partners’ emotional experience. The qualitative analysis further substantiated these results, with participants reporting having involved their partners in their pregnancy, shared their insights about themselves with their partners and gained fresh perspectives on their relationships. Participants in STEP also expressed sharing program materials with their partners and considered that such interventions should be extended to expecting fathers. This study underscores the potential of mentalization‐based interventions to indirectly contribute to couple relationships, which may have positive implications for parenting and the infant.
ICTs for Afghan women's empowerment in the pre‐ and new‐Taliban era: Roles of gender, education, and crises
Authors: Hussain Faheem , Amin Sara N. , Rezaie Razia
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we explore women's use of ICTs in urban Afghanistan in the period between 2015 and 2022 to examine the changing gender dynamics of ICT access and usage in the context of expanding opportunities for women's education and employment (2015–2020) and different forms of crises, including the COVID19 pandemic (2020–2021) and political takeover by the fundamentalist and violent Taliban regime (2021–2022). Drawing on feminist theorization of empowerment and using a mixed methods study of 817 questionnaires (2015) and observation data (2015–2022) allows us to make visible the contingent and unintended dynamics of the relationship between women's empowerment and ICTs, especially in conflict zones. These findings contribute to ongoing debates on gender, empowerment and ICTs by emphasizing the multifaceted nature of technology adoption and usage, the significance of education in overcoming barriers, and the evolving role of ICTs, especially for women, in the face of radical political changes and crises.
The dilution evaluation as a corrective measure for interference in the white blood cell scattergram in Beckman Coulter DxH 900
Authors: Freitas Filipa P. , Reis Jorge , Oliveira Joana , Veiga Pedro Mota , Raquel Paiva Ana , Soares Rui
Published: April 2024

Background

The Beckman Coulter DxH 900 is a haematological analyser capable of counting and sizing blood cells, and obtaining a complete blood cell count (CBC). This analyses different parameters of red blood cells (RBC), platelets and white blood cells/leukocytes. Some automated CBC counters present limitations due to specimen characteristics, abnormal cells or both factors. In the presence of abnormalities, the DxH 900 has a flagging system, warning the laboratory technician that something needs to be verified. In the present work, we evaluated samples from oncologic patients, presenting a population erroneously perceived as being lymphocytes. The most common explanations for this situation are RBC resistant to lysis or serum hyperbilirubinaemia.

Methods

In an attempt to solve and understand what the cause of this problem might be, we diluted our samples (1:3) and analysed the serum total bilirubin. To identify cells' abnormalities, the samples were also analysed by manual DLC counts. During the study, we also checked the different flags presented by the equipment.

Results

The results evidenced that the major interference was due to RBC lysis resistance, corresponding to 94.7% of the cases, while hyperbilirubinaemia was only present in 73.4%. Besides, we determined that some samples with normal bilirubin levels also presented interference, suggesting that hyperbilirubinaemia was not the main cause of the error. The most recurrent flag observed was “High event rate”.

Conclusion

The dilution solved all of the observed interferences. The results between diluted and manual counts showed a strong correlation, leading us to introduce dilution in our laboratory routine.
Exploring the interaction of a potent anti‐cancer drug Selumetinib with bovine serum albumin: Spectral and computational attributes
Authors: Jalan Ankita , Sangeet Satyam , Pradhan Amit Kumar , Moyon N. Shaemningwar
Published: April 2024

The binding of drugs to plasma proteins determines its fate within the physiological system, hence profound understanding of its interaction within the bloodstream is important to understand its pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics and thereby its therapeutic potential. In this regard, our work delineates the mechanism of interaction of Selumetinib (SEL), a potent anti‐cancer drug showing excellent effect against multiple solid tumors, with plasma protein bovine serum albumin (BSA), using methods such as absorption, steady‐state fluorescence, time‐resolved, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), circular dichroism (CD), synchronous and 3D‐fluorescence, salt fluorescence, molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations. The BSA fluorescence intensity was quenched with increasing concentration of SEL which indicates interactions of SEL with BSA. Stern–Volmer quenching analysis and lifetime studies indicate the involvement of dynamic quenching. However, some contributions from the static quenching mechanism could not be ruled out unambiguously. The association constant was found to be 5.34 × 105 M−1 and it has a single binding site. The Förster distance (r) indicated probable energy transmission between the BSA and SEL. The positive entropy changes and enthalpy change indicate that the main interacting forces are hydrophobic forces, also evidenced by the results of molecular modeling studies. Conformation change in protein framework was revealed from FTIR, synchronous and 3D fluorescence and CD studies. Competitive binding experiments as well as docking studies suggest that SEL attaches itself to site I (subdomain IIA) of BSA where warfarin binds. Molecular dynamic simulations indicate the stability of the SEL–BSA complex. The association energy between BSA and SEL is affected in the presence of different metals differently.
When do part‐time workers increase effectiveness? A study of food banks and the SNAP program outreach
Authors: Sharma Luv , Pekgün Pelin , Öztürk Orgül D. , Ahire Sanjay L.
Published: April 2024

The use of part‐time employees to support operations has been a contentious topic in the literature. While part‐time employees add cost‐effective flexibility to operations, their impact on operational outcomes has largely been documented as negative. However, there are a number of sectors (e.g., non‐profit) which rely heavily on part‐time employees, with anecdotal evidence supporting their role in improving outcomes. Through this research, we seek to shed light on these contradicting perspectives. We do so by investigating the impact of the percentage of part‐time employees in the workforce dedicated to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) outreach efforts at United States (U.S.) food banks on the effectiveness of this initiative. SNAP is the largest domestic hunger program in the U.S., assisting over 42 million individuals, and food banks play a critical role in outreach and enrollment for SNAP. We utilize data on the operational characteristics and SNAP activities of food banks that are members of the Feeding America network and U.S. Census data on the demographic characteristics of their service area. We find that an increased percentage of part‐time FTEs (full‐time equivalent) in a food bank's workforce dedicated to SNAP outreach efforts increases its effectiveness, particularly in relation to operational and contextual factors that can benefit from a more flexible workforce. Based on these findings and our review of the literature, we propose a conceptual framework on the effectiveness of part‐time employees in different settings.
Comparison of nonlinear trends and influencing factors of carbon sinks in four ecological restoration projects in China
Authors: Xu Xiaojuan , Liu Jing , Qiu Jie , Zhang Kun , Jiao Fusheng , Lin Dayi , Yang Yue , Lin Naifeng , Zou Changxin
Published: April 2024

China's ecological restoration projects aim to safeguard natural forests, improve the ecological environment, and achieve carbon neutrality. Previous studies at multiple scales have reported that the ecological projects contributed to enhancing carbon sinks. However, the effect of these projects on the carbon sinks has remained uncertain. Thus, we conducted a comparative analysis of nonlinear trends and influencing factors of carbon sink trends in the four ecological restoration project areas. Our findings suggested that the Pearl River shelterbelt program and middle reaches of the Yellow River shelterbelt program areas have experienced significant enhancements in ecosystem carbon sinks. The carbon sink exhibiting monotonically increasing trends and decreasing to increasing trends (positive shifts) accounted for 74.48% and 71.76% in these two shelterbelt program areas, respectively. However, less than half of the carbon sinks (41.38% and 31.80%, respectively) demonstrated monotonically increasing trends or positive shifts in the Yangtze River and Three North Shelterbelt program areas. The high background value of carbon sinks played a crucial role in the monotonically increasing trends of carbon sinks in the four ecological restoration projects. Additionally, in the Pearl River program areas, economic development and urban greening promoted the monotonically increasing trends of carbon sink. In the Yellow River program areas, CO2 fertilization, appropriate warming, and increased precipitation were helpful to promote the carbon sink with monotonically increasing trends. Moreover, the positive shifts of the carbon sinks were attributed to the implementation of these two ecological restoration projects. However, the low temperature and drought hindered the enhancement of carbon sinks in the Three North program areas, and extreme climate (flood and drought) hindered it in the Yangtze River program areas. These findings can provide a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of ecological restoration projects on terrestrial ecosystems and offer practical guidelines to achieve carbon neutrality.
Bio‐Polyethylene and Polyethylene Biocomposites: An Alternative toward a Sustainable Future
Authors: Soo Xiang Yun Debbie , Muiruri Joseph Kinyanjui , Wu Wen‐Ya , Yeo Jayven Chee Chuan , Wang Suxi , Tomczak Nikodem , Thitsartarn Warintorn , Tan Beng Hoon , Wang Pei , Wei Fengxia , Suwardi Ady , Xu Jianwei , Loh Xian Jun , Yan Qingyu , Zhu Qiang
Published: April 2024

Polyethylene (PE), a highly prevalent non‐biodegradable polymer in the field of plastics, presents a waste management issue. To alleviate this issue, bio‐based PE (bio‐PE), derived from renewable resources like corn and sugarcane, offers an environmentally friendly alternative. This review discusses various production methods of bio‐PE, including fermentation, gasification, and catalytic conversion of biomass. Interestingly, the bio‐PE production volumes and market are expanding due to the growing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures. Additionally, the production of PE and bio‐PE biocomposites using agricultural waste as filler materials, highlights the growing demand for sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. According to previous studies, addition of ≈50% defibrillated corn and abaca fibers into bio‐PE matrix and a compatibilizer, results in the highest Young's modulus of 4.61 and 5.81 GPa, respectively. These biocomposites have potential applications in automotive, building construction, and furniture industries. Moreover, the advancement made in abiotic and biotic degradation of PE and PE biocomposites is elucidated to address their environmental impacts. Finally, the paper concludes with insights into the opportunities, challenges, and future perspectives in the sustainable production and utilization of PE and bio‐PE biocomposites. In summary, production of PE and bio‐PE biocomposites can contribute to a cleaner and sustainable future.
Debunking Myths
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: April 2024

Given the opportunity on a Saturday night, what would the average moviegoer prefer to see: an historically accurate accounting of World War I or a science‐fiction epic about a galactic war? At the front of the local bookstore, which book is more likely to be prominently displayed: a history of the British monarchy or a saga of medieval times featuring dragons, elves, and magic? Sure, some people will opt for the austerity of factual accounts. However, many more are likely to opt for the mythology and escapism inherent in stories of how things might be, rather than remain in the stark reality of the present.
Ultrasonic surface acoustic wave elastography: A review of basic theories, technical developments, and medical applications
Authors: Masud Abdullah Al , Liu Jingfei
Published: April 2024

Physiological and pathological changes in tissues often cause changes in tissue mechanical properties, making tissue elastography an effective modality in medical imaging. Among the existing elastography methods, ultrasound elastography is of great interest due to the inherent advantages of ultrasound imaging technology, such as low cost, portability, safety, and wide availability. However, most current ultrasound elastography methods are based on the bulk shear wave; they can image deep tissues but cannot image superficial tissues. To address this challenge, ultrasonic elastography methods based on surface acoustic waves have been proposed. In this paper, we present a comprehensive review of ultrasound‐based surface acoustic wave elastography techniques, including their theoretical foundations, technical implementations, and existing medical applications. The goal is to provide a concise summary of the state‐of‐the‐art of this field, hoping to offer a reliable reference for the further development of these techniques and foster the expansion of their medical applications.
Does ejaculation have an effect on urinary flow rates?
Authors: Erkan Erbay M. , Tarhan Fatih
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The primary objective of this investigation is to explore the impact of ejaculation on urinary flow rates in men experiencing lower urinary tract symptoms.

Materials and Methods

This study involved the enrollment of 55 male patients who presented with lower urinary tract symptoms. An assessment encompassed components, including medical history, questionnaires related to sexual activity and lower urinary tract symptoms, bladder diary, physical examination, urinalysis, urine culture, ultrasound examination and measurements of serum prostate‐specific antigen, free flow uroflowmetry, and post‐void residual urine volume. All participants were instructed to abstain from ejaculation for 3 days before undergoing uroflowmetry (UF1). Subsequently, they were required to ejaculate. Subsequent uroflowmetry assessments were conducted at 2 to 4 h (UF2) and 48 to 50 h (UF3) after ejaculation. No further ejaculations were permitted during this timeframe.

Results

The patients had a mean age of 50.97 ± 1.47 years. Statistically significant differences were observed in the mean values of Qmax and corrected Qmax (cQmax) between UF1 and UF2 measurements (p < 0.05). These differences were only in patients with benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the number of patients with Qmax <15 mL/s showed a statistically significant difference between UF1 and UF2 measurements, specifically in the BPE group (p = 0.016).

Conclusions

In this study, we have observed a significant and temporary increase in the Qmax following ejaculation, particularly among patients with BPE. This indicates that ejaculation can potentially complicate the interpretation of uroflowmetry results. Therefore, further research is necessary to gain a more comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon.
Insight into the autoproteolysis mechanism of the RsgI9 anti‐σ factor from Clostridium thermocellum
Authors: Takayesu Allen , Mahoney Brendan J. , Goring Andrew K. , Jessup Tobie , Ogorzalek Loo Rachel R. , Loo Joseph A. , Clubb Robert T.
Published: April 2024

Clostridium thermocellum is a potential microbial platform to convert abundant plant biomass to biofuels and other renewable chemicals. It efficiently degrades lignocellulosic biomass using a surface displayed cellulosome, a megadalton sized multienzyme containing complex. The enzymatic composition and architecture of the cellulosome is controlled by several transmembrane biomass‐sensing RsgI‐type anti‐σ factors. Recent studies suggest that these factors transduce signals from the cell surface via a conserved RsgI extracellular (CRE) domain (also called a periplasmic domain) that undergoes autoproteolysis through an incompletely understood mechanism. Here we report the structure of the autoproteolyzed CRE domain from the C. thermocellum RsgI9 anti‐σ factor, revealing that the cleaved fragments forming this domain associate to form a stable α/β/α sandwich fold. Based on AlphaFold2 modeling, molecular dynamics simulations, and tandem mass spectrometry, we propose that a conserved Asn‐Pro bond in RsgI9 autoproteolyzes via a succinimide intermediate whose formation is promoted by a conserved hydrogen bond network holding the scissile peptide bond in a strained conformation. As other RsgI anti‐σ factors share sequence homology to RsgI9, they likely autoproteolyze through a similar mechanism.
An Optimized Grid‐Forming Control Strategy for the Flexible Interconnection System in Distribution Transformer Areas
Authors: Yu Gaole , Xu Jianyuan , Yan Zheng , Ren Wenlong
Published: April 2024

The flexible interconnection system (FIS) in distribution transformer areas can improve the local consumption capacity of high penetration rate distributed photovoltaics and solve the problem of the high loading rate of distribution transformers. This paper presents an optimized grid‐forming control strategy for the FIS in distribution transformer areas. First, the DC side impedance small signal model of the FIS is built, and the reason for the stability difference of the FIS is analyzed when the active power flows in different directions. An optimized control structure is then presented based on the conventional grid‐forming control strategy. The theoretical analysis shows that the optimized grid‐forming control strategy can improve the stability of the FIS. Finally, the controller hardware‐in‐the‐loop experiments based on RT‐LAB confirm the effectiveness of the presented optimized control strategy. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Bacterial Infections
Authors: Averbuch Dina
Published: April 2024

HCT patients are at risk for severe bacterial infection, the most frequent of them are bloodstream infections (BSI). The majority occur at the pre-engraftment period. Primary BSIs are mainly central line catheter-related (CRBSI) or mucosal barrier injury-associated. Secondary BSI accompanies site-specific infection (e.g.,Pseudomonas aeruginosapneumonia and BSI). GNB has become an increasingly common cause of BSI, and are associated with high mortality. Specifically, an increase in infections due to resistant GNB, such as ESBL Enterobacterales, carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE), MDR GNB, or difficult-to-treat (DTR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa, leads to delay in appropriate therapy and increases mortality. Empirical antibiotic therapy should be started immediately when bacterial infection is suspected. It should be based on escalation/de-escalation principles reflecting the patient’s clinical condition, prior colonization or infection with resistant bacteria, and local epidemiology. Main targeted therapy options for severe infections caused by resistant GNB include: carbapenems for ESBL Enterobacterales; meropenem-vaborbactam or ceftazidime-avibactam for KPC-producing Enterobacterales; ceftazidime-avibactam for OXA-48-like-producing Enterobacterales; aztreonam plus ceftazidime–avibactam, or cefiderocol for Metallo-β-lactamases-producing Enterobacterales; ceftolozane-tazobactam for DTRPseudomonas aeruginosa. Routine combination therapy of β-lactams with aminoglycosides/fluoroquinolone (FQ)/polymyxins for infection due to MDR GNB susceptible to β-lactam is not recommended (with a possible exception of a severe infections due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in neutropenic patients). High-dose prolonged β-lactam infusion can maximize efficacy. Source control with CVC removal is important. Antibiotic treatment should be continued for at least 7 days until the infection is microbiologically eradicated and all clinical signs resolved, with the patient afebrile for at least 4 days. Antimicrobial stewardship aims to individualize an empirical approach to patients with suspected infection, limiting unnecessary antibiotic use, and optimizing treatment based on pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic principles. Infection control is crucial to limit the spread of MDR pathogens. Fluoroquinolone prophylaxis is controversial. Encapsulated bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae) cause infection during the late post-engraftment period. Preventive measures include oral prophylaxis, IVIg, and vaccinations.
Statistical Methods in HCT and Cellular Therapies
Authors: Iacobelli Simona , de Wreede Liesbeth C.
Published: April 2024

The analysis of data describing the outcomes of patients who have received an HCT is not only fundamental to assessing the effectiveness of the treatment but can provide invaluable information on the prognostic role of disease and patient factors. Thus, the appropriate analysis and understanding of such data are of paramount importance. This document provides an overview of the main and well-established statistical methods, as well as a brief introduction of more novel techniques. More insight is provided in theEBMT Statistical Guidelines(Iacobelli 2013). Additionally, the paper by de Wreede et al. (2022) explains the most important concepts and related pitfalls in the analysis of HCT studies.
Population parameters of Drosophila larval cooperative foraging
Authors: Liao Amy , Qian Christy , Abdi Sepideh , Yee Peyton , Cursain Sean Michael , Condron Niav , Condron Barry
Published: April 2024

Cooperative foraging behavior can be advantageous when there is a common exploitable resource. By cooperating, members of the group can take advantage of the potential of increased efficiency of working together as well as equitable distribution of the product. An experimental signature of cooperative foraging is an Allee effect where at a certain number of individuals, there is a peak of fitness. What happens when there are intruders especially ones that do not contribute to any work required for foraging? Drosophila larvae secrete digestive enzymes and exodigest food. Under crowded conditions in liquid food these larvae form synchronized feeding clusters which provides a fitness benefit. A key for this synchronized feeding behavior is the visually guided alignment between adjacent larvae in a feeding cluster. Larvae who do not align their movements are excluded from the groups and subsequently lose the benefit. This may be a way of editing the group to include only known members. To test the model, the fitness benefit from cooperative behavior was further investigated to establish an Allee effect for a number of strains including those who cannot exodigest or cluster. In a standard lab vial, about 40 larvae is the optimal number for fitness. Combinations of these larvae were also examined. The expectation was that larvae who do not contribute to exodigestion are obligate cheaters and would be expelled. Indeed, obligate cheaters gain greatly from the hosts but paradoxically, so do the hosts. Clusters that include cheaters are more stable. Therefore, clustering and the benefits from it are dependent on more than just the contribution to exodigestion. This experimental system should provide a rich future model to understand the metrics of cooperative behavior.
Impact of concurrent medications on clinical outcomes of cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: analysis of Health Insurance Review and Assessment data
Authors: Hong Soojung , Lee Ju Hyun , Heo Ja Yoon , Suh Koung Jin , Kim Se Hyun , Kim Yu Jung , Kim Jee Hyun
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Medications regulating immune homeostasis and gut microbiota could affect the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). This study aimed to investigate the impact of concurrent medications on the clinical outcomes of patients with cancer receiving ICI therapy in South Korea.

Methods

We identified patients newly treated with ICI for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), urothelial carcinoma (UC), and malignant melanoma (MM) between August 2017 and June 2020 from a nationwide database in Korea. The effect of concurrent antibiotics (ATBs), corticosteroids (CSs), proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), and opioids prescribed within 30 days before ICI initiation on the treatment duration and survival was assessed.

Results

In all, 8870 patients were included in the ICI cohort (NSCLC, 7,128; UC, 960; MM, 782). The patients were prescribed ATBs (33.8%), CSs (47.8%), PPIs (28.5%), and opioids (53.1%) at the baseline. The median overall survival durations were 11.1, 12.2, and 22.1 months in NSCLC, UC, and MM subgroups, respectively, since starting the ICI mostly as second-line (NSCLC and UC) and first-line (MM) therapy. Early progression was observed in 34.2% of the patients. Opioids and CS were strongly associated with poor survival across all cancer types. A high number of concurrent medications was associated with early progression and short survival. Opioid and CS use was associated with poor prognosis in all patients treated with ICIs. However, ATBs and PPIs had a cancer-specific effect on survival.

Conclusion

A high number of concurrent medications was associated with poor clinical outcomes.
Simon’s bounded rationality
Authors: Giarlotta Alfio , Petralia Angelo
Published: April 2024

This note in the Milestones series is dedicated to the paper “A Behavioral Model of Rational Choice”, written by Herbert Simon and published in 1955 on the Quarterly Journal of Economics.
Studies About the Effect of Halogenated Solvents on the Fluorescence Properties of 9-Aryl-Substituted Isoquinolinium Derivatives – A Case Study
Authors: Groß Philipp , Ihmels Heiko
Published: April 2024

It was demonstrated that 9-aryl-substituted isoquinolinium derivatives have significantly increased fluorescence quantum yields in halogenated solvents, mostly pronounced in chloroalkanes, which appears to be specific for this type of solvents. Further analysis with selected halogenated solvents revealed that the type and number of halogen substituents and the dielectric constant of the solvent have a distinct impact on the emission quantum yield. The solvent effect is explained by a solvation of the charge shift (CS) state by attractive halogen–π interactions (halogen bond), which impedes the torsional relaxation of the excited state.
‘Born Free’ Dreams: South African Township Youth Discuss Their Hopes for a Better Life in Future
Authors: Møller Valerie , Roberts Benjamin J. , Zani Dalindyebo
Published: April 2024

The advent of democracy in 1994 promised South Africans a ‘better life for all’ and the so-called ‘born free’ generation hoped for better education and job opportunities than those of their parents and grandparents, who had lived under apartheid. In focus group discussions, township youth living in a small university town in the country’s poorest Eastern Cape Province had the opportunity to express what hopes they had for their future in the post-Covid-19 era and confirmed the important role of hope in their lives as a useful tool that motivated them to aspire to fulfil their dreams. In response to select items from the Snyder hope scales, youth discussed their life goals, optimism, agency, and pathway thinking to realise their dreams. Youth recognised hope could be both harmful as well as useful. The discussions provided an opportunity for youth to share and compare with others their experiences of disappointment and failure, of times when they had felt hopeless, with the worst cases of hopelessness resulting in alcohol and substance abuse, which was reportedly widespread among township youth. Family, neighbours and significant others provided support and advice that assisted youth to recover from hopelessness, and to find new direction in life. Results from this qualitative study point to the importance of providing township youth with a platform to share their experiences of hopelessness. Policy and practical interventions are needed to support and guide hopeless youth to regain their mental health, well-being, and hope for the future.
FF-ViT: probe orientation regression for robot-assisted endomicroscopy tissue scanning
Authors: Xu Chi , Roddan Alfie , Xu Haozheng , Stamatia Giannarou
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) enables visualization of cellular tissue morphology during surgical procedures. To capture high-quality pCLE images during tissue scanning, it is important to maintain close contact between the probe and the tissue, while also keeping the probe perpendicular to the tissue surface. Existing robotic pCLE tissue scanning systems, which rely on macroscopic vision, struggle to accurately place the probe at the optimal position on the tissue surface. As a result, the need arises for regression of longitudinal distance and orientation via endomicroscopic vision.

Method

This paper introduces a novel method for automatically regressing the orientation between a pCLE probe and the tissue surface during robotic scanning, utilizing the fast Fourier vision transformer (FF-ViT) to extract local frequency representations and use them for probe orientation regression. Additionally, the FF-ViT incorporates a blur mapping attention (BMA) module to refine latent representations, which is combined with the pyramid angle regressor (PAR) to precisely estimate probe orientation.

Result

A first of its kind dataset for pCLE probe-tissue orientation (pCLE-PTO) has been created. The performance evaluation demonstrates that our proposed network surpasses other top regression networks in accuracy, stability, and generalizability, while maintaining low computational complexity (1.8G FLOPs) and high inference speed (90 fps).

Conclusion

The performance evaluation study verifies the clinical value of the proposed framework and its potential to be integrated into surgical robotic platforms for intraoperative tissue scanning.
A time-domain SGFD-FK hybrid method for 2D teleseismic elastic wave modeling and inversion
Authors: del Valle-Rosales Mauricio , Chávez-García Francisco José
Published: April 2024

Full waveform inversion (FWI) has proved to be a reliable tool for high-resolution imaging of lithospheric structures at various depths down to the upper mantle. However, when the size of the model is large, the computational burden is significative and applications are restricted to low frequencies. To tackle this issue, we developed a new 2D time-domain hybrid method to simulate high-frequency teleseismic body waves propagating through a local heterogeneous elastic Earth model: The frequency-wavenumber (FK) integration method is coupled with the staggered grid finite difference method (SGFD). The FK method is used to compute the wavefield due to obliquely incident plane P and SV waves in a 1D multilayered half space that excites a local heterogeneous region. Inside this region, the velocity-stress staggered grid FD method (SGFD) is used to accurately deal with wave propagation in heterogeneous media. Spurious waves that might be generated at the boundaries of the local region are avoided using convolutional perfectly matched layers (CPML). This new hybrid method inherits the low-memory requirements of the FK method and the accuracy, efficiency and easy implementation of the SGFD. The new hybrid method is benchmarked against the analytical FK method for some canonical models and shows good agreement with analytical solutions. Subsequently, our modeling tool is incorporated into a full waveform inversion algorithm adapted for teleseismic configurations to invert the incident P wave and its coda. The inversion is carried out using a gradient approach that is efficiently implemented via the adjoint-state method. The results suggest that our hybrid method and FWI algorithm represent a valuable tool for 2D forward and inverse regional applications using teleseismic data sets.
Cognitive Impairment Detection Based on Frontal Camera Scene While Performing Handwriting Tasks
Authors: Candela Federico , Romeo Santina , Faundez-Zanuy Marcos , Ferrer-Ramos Pau
Published: April 2024

Diagnosing cognitive impairment is an ongoing field of research especially in the elderly. Assessing the health status of the elderly can be a complex process that requires both subjective and objective measures. Subjective measures, such as self-reported responses to questions, can provide valuable information about a person’s experiences, feelings, and beliefs. However, from a scientific point of view, objective measures, based on quantifiable data that can be used to assess a person’s physical and cognitive functioning, are more appropriate and rigorous. The proposed system is based on the use of non-invasive instrumentation, which includes video images acquired with a frontal camera while the user performs different handwriting tasks on a Wacom tablet. We have acquired a new multimodal database of 191 elder subjects, which has been classified by human experts into healthy and cognitive impairment users by means of the standard pentagon copying test. The automatic classification was carried out using a video segmentation algorithm through the technique of shot boundary detection, in conjunction with a Transformer neural network. We obtain a multiclass classification accuracy of 77% and two-class accuracy of 83% based on frontal camera images, which basically detects head movements during handwriting tasks. Our automatic system can replicate human classification of handwritten pentagon copying test, opening a new method for cognitive impairment detection based on head movements. We also demonstrate the possibility to identifying the handwritten task performed by the user, based on frontal camera images and a Transformer neural network.
Pseudo datasets explain artificial neural networks
Authors: Chu Yi-Chi , Chen Yi-Hau , Guo Chao-Yu
Published: April 2024

Machine learning enhances predictive ability in various research compared to conventional statistical approaches. However, the advantage of the regression model is that it can effortlessly interpret the effect of each predictor. Therefore, interpretable machine-learning models are desirable as the deep-learning technique advances. Although many studies have proposed ways to explain neural networks, this research suggests an intuitive and feasible algorithm to interpret any set of input features of artificial neural networks at the population-mean level changes. The new algorithm provides a novel concept of generating pseudo datasets and evaluating the impact due to changes in the input features. Our approach can accurately obtain the effect estimate from single to multiple input neurons and depict the association between the predictive and outcome variables. According to computer simulation studies, the explanatory effects of the predictors derived by the neural network as a particular case could approximate the general linear model estimates. Besides, we applied the new method to three real-life analyzes. The results demonstrated that the new algorithm could obtain similar effect estimates from the neural networks and regression models. Besides, it yields better predictive errors than the conventional regression models. Again, it is worth noting that the new pipeline is much less computationally intensive than the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP), which could not simultaneously measure the impact due to two or more inputs while adjusting for other features.
Fighting for the soul of coal: Colliery closures and the moral economy of nationalization in Britain, 1947–1994
Authors: Perchard Andrew , Gildart Keith , Curtis Ben , Millar Grace
Published: April 2024

In this article, we explore the impact of colliery closure programs across the nationalized British coal industry. We chart the regional disparities in these and the mobilization of community opposition to national protests, leading to the national miners’ strikes of 1972, 1974, and 1984–5. This article demonstrates how closures have changed the industrial politics of mining unions for miners, junior officials, and managers and have increasingly alienated NCB officials and mining communities. We demonstrate how this undermined the ideals of nationalization. This is examined through moral economic frameworks and within the context of changes to the UK’s energy mix, with implications for contemporary deliberations on public ownership, energy transitions, and regional development.
The role of physical activity and sport in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Authors: Zborowska Agata Małgorzata
Published: April 2024

Abstract: Background: Various health-related benefits of physical activity (PA) in children and adolescents have been reported, with suggestions that PA could effectively address certain deficits found in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, there remains insufficient engagement in PA among individuals with ASD, and barriers to accessing PA persist. Objective: This study aims to review PA interventions (types, frequencies, and durations) in ASD over the last five years and discuss their effects. Methods: Searches were conducted in the PubMed database from October to December 2022 using Mesh Terms: “adolescent” OR “children” AND “sport” OR “physical activity” AND “mental health” AND/OR “autism.” Results were critically appraised using PEDro and Cochrane’s ROB-2, categorized into five stages to assess potential bias. Results: A total of ten papers were included and appraised, examining various types of PA. Primary benefits observed in children and adolescents included the development of social skills, reduction of autistic traits, regulation of emotions, and management of behaviour and cognition. Conclusions: Evidence indicates that PA can effectively address some neuropsychological deficits in ASD. Additionally, managing and protecting against metabolic conditions through PA can significantly enhance overall health.
Die Entwicklung des Psychologiestudiums in Deutschland
Authors: Weber Hannelore , Erdfelder Edgar , Gundlach Horst , Spinath Birgit
Published: April 2024

Zusammenfassung: Dieser psychologiehistorische Beitrag zeichnet die Entwicklung des Psychologiestudiums und dessen Vorläufer seit Beginn des 19. Jahrhunderts nach, identifiziert die wesentlichen Entwicklungsschübe sowie deren Ursachen und betrachtet die Rolle der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Psychologie im Verlaufe dieses Prozesses. Analyseschwerpunkte bilden die Entwicklung des Diplomstudienganges Psychologie einschließlich der Rahmenprüfungsordnungen bis zum Ende des 20. Jahrhunderts, die Konsequenzen der Bologna-Reform für das Psychologiestudium Anfang des 21. Jahrhunderts und die jüngsten Entwicklungen im Zusammenhang mit der Reform der Psychotherapieausbildung.
Öffentlichkeitsarbeit der DGPs
Authors: Silbereisen Rainer K. , Hasselhorn Marcus
Published: April 2024

Zusammenfassung: Auf der Grundlage zahlreicher Dokumente zur Arbeit der DGPs im Zentrum für Geschichte der Psychologie an der Universität Würzburg, im Nachrichtenteil der Psychologischen Rundschau (Organ der DGPs) sowie der Website der DGPs ( https://www.dgps.de/ ) zum Stichwort „Öffentlichkeitsarbeit“ wird die Entwicklung der Öffentlichkeitsarbeit der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Psychologie (D‍G‍P‍s) rekonstruiert. Die Darstellung erfolgt systematisch anhand folgender Facetten: (1) Öffentlichkeitsarbeit und Wissenschaftskommunikation im Wandel, (2) Veränderungen der Öffentlichkeitsarbeit der DGPs zwischen 1980 und 2020, (3) Herausgehobene Aktivitätscluster der DGPs Öffentlichkeitsarbeit, und (4) Wünschenswerte Weiterentwicklungen. Der Berichtszeitraum beginnt in den 80er Jahren des vergangenen Jahrhunderts und reicht bis Ende 2020. Identifiziert werden drei Perioden, deren Aktivitäten sich deutlich unterscheiden. Es zeigt sich, dass die Öffentlichkeitsarbeit der DGPs in den letzten Jahrzehnten in strategischer und methodischer Hinsicht professionalisiert wurde. Zu den Desideraten künftiger Arbeit gehört die wirksame Vermittlung fachlicher Beiträge der Psychologie zur Bewältigung persönlicher und zur Gestaltung gesellschaftlicher Herausforderungen.