bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Layered Porous Ring‐Like Carbon Network Protected FeNi Metal Atomic Pairs for Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalysis and Rechargeable Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Qin Tengteng , Pei Zhen , Qiu Jiahao , Wang Junzhang , Xu Zhou , Guo Xingzhong
Published: August 2024

Bimetallic atom catalysts exhibit ultra‐high oxygen electrocatalytic activity by harnessing mutual promotion and synergistic effects between adjacent metal active centers, surpassing the performance of single metal atomic catalysts. Herein, FeNi atom pairs protected by hierarchical porous annular carbon grids (P‐FeNi‐NPC) are introduced using a mediator‐assisted MOFs‐derived strategy. The introduction of the multi‐block copolymer P123 ensures the uniform confinement and dispersion of metal ions, followed by thermal decomposition to form a “planetary‐ring‐like” carbon framework that anchors the bimetallic atomic pairs in the active region. The homogeneous distribution of adjacent Fe‐N4 and Ni‐N4 active sites significantly enhances catalytic activity and stability. Leveraging unique electronic and geometric structures, the resulting P‐FeNi‐NPC catalyst demonstrates exceptional ORR and OER activities with an ΔE value of 0.705 (E1/2 = 0.845 V, Ej = 10 = 1.55 V). Theoretical calculations unveil that FeNi bimetallic sites loaded on nitrogen‐doped carbon frameworks with specific curvature effectively modulate the energy of d‐band centers, thus balancing the free energy of oxygen‐containing intermediates. This study presents a novel and versatile approach for synthesizing advanced bifunctional catalysts, poised to drive the future development of Zn‐air batteries.
A Deterministic Method to Construct a Common Supercell Between Two Similar Crystalline Surfaces
Authors: Lee Weon‐Gyu , Lee Jung‐Hoon
Published: August 2024

Here, a deterministic algorithm is proposed, that is capable of constructing a common supercell between two similar crystalline surfaces without scanning all possible cases. Using the complex plane, the 2D lattice is defined as the 2D complex vector. Then, the relationship between two surfaces becomes the eigenvector–eigenvalue relation where an operator corresponds to a transformation matrix. It is shown that this transformation matrix can be directly determined from the lattice parameters and rotation angle of the two given crystalline surfaces with O(log Nmax) time complexity, where Nmax is the maximum index of repetition matrix elements. This process is much faster than the conventional brute force approach (). By implementing the method in Python code, experimental 2D heterostructures and their moiré patterns and additionally find new moiré patterns that have not yet been reported are successfully generated. According to the density functional theory (DFT) calculations, some of the new moiré patterns are expected to be as stable as experimentally‐observed moiré patterns. Taken together, it is believed that the method can be widely applied as a useful tool for designing new heterostructures with interesting properties.
Heavy‐Atom‐Free Covalent Organic Frameworks for Organic Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence via Förster and Dexter Energy Transfer Mechanism
Authors: Tian Ye , Si Duanhui , Li Jingjun , Lin Wenlie , Yang Xue , Gao Shuiying , Cao Rong
Published: August 2024

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs), with their accessible nanoscale porosity, selectable building blocks, and precisely engineered topology, offer unique benefits in the design of room‐temperature phosphorescent (RTP) materials. However, their potential has been limited by phosphorescence quenching caused by interlayer π–π stacking interactions. This paper presents a novel strategy to enhance RTP in heavy‐atom‐free COFs by employing a donor–acceptor (D–A) system that leverages the Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and Dexter energy transfer (DET) mechanisms. Among the materials investigated, the best‐performing COF exhibits a phosphorescence lifetime of 4.35 ms at room temperature. Spectral analysis, structural analysis, and theoretical calculations indicate the presence of intralayer FRET processes as well as interlayer DET processes within the D–A COF system. Potential anti‐counterfeiting applications are explored by exploiting the unique phosphorescent properties of these materials. Additionally, the inherent permanent porosity of COFs presents new opportunities for future development and application. This strategy offers many promising prospects for advancing the RTP technology in COF materials and broadens their potential applications in various fields.
Correlation between Photoluminescence Features and Enhanced Performance in Formamidinium Lead Triiodide Quantum Dot Solar Cells by Replacement of Octadecene
Authors: Alessi Bruno , Svrcek Vladimir
Published: August 2024

In this study, an innovative approach is developed for fabricating formamidinium lead triiodide (FAPbI3) quantum dots (QDs) by substitution of octadecene (ODE). The results showcase the formation of superior‐quality FAPbI3 QD films, boasting enhanced photoluminescence (PL) and transport properties. Specifically, ODE has been replaced with octene (OCE), a shorter linear alpha olefin. Comparisons are drawn between the novel synthesis method and the conventional ODE‐based QD films, scrutinizing their optical properties and applicability in QD solar cells. The outcomes highlight distinctions in temperature‐dependent PL emission characteristics, revealing an unprecedented absolute PL QY of up to 84%, a notable improvement from the 70% achieved with ODE, along with enhanced transport properties. Furthermore, the performance of both systems in QD solar cells is evaluated for two values of layer thickness, 100 and 200 nm, to investigate the transport properties at the device level. The results exhibit a remarkable improvement from 200% to 150% in average power conversion efficiency (PCE) and consistently higher values for open‐circuit voltage and short‐circuit current density for the OCE‐based solar cell compared to an ODE‐based counterpart for both thickness values, reaching a striking 6.7% PCE for the best‐performing device despite the nonideal conditions.
Spatial and temporal variability of movements among sympatric salmonids in an unfragmented inland watershed
Authors: Lance Michael J. , Ritter T. David , Zale Alexander V. , Grisak Grant G. , Mullen Jason A. , Walsh Stephen J. , Heim Kurt C. , Al-Chokhachy Robert
Published: August 2024

Objective

Our aim was to determine the movement patterns of three abundant salmonids—Brown Trout Salmo trutta, Mountain Whitefish Prosopium williamsoni, and Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss—in the Smith River watershed of Montana.

Methods

We tagged 7172 fish with passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags, monitored their movements past 15 stationary PIT arrays over 4 years, and located tagged fish between arrays by conducting mobile surveys.

Result

Movement patterns varied seasonally, among species, and among locations. Movement was greatest in the middle portion of the watershed, which included a pristine main-stem canyon and lower reaches of major tributaries. Fish rarely left the canyon, but movement into the canyon from other regions was common. Mountain Whitefish were most likely to move, and Brown Trout were least likely to move. Most fish travelled less than 10 km, but some fish travelled over 100 km. Distinct movement patterns were not evident; rather, a continuous spectrum of movement behaviors was apparent. Movements by Mountain Whitefish and Rainbow Trout increased during their spawning periods. Movements peaked when mean daily water temperatures were between 11.3 and 17.1°C.

Conclusion

Movements were diverse and probably contributed to metapopulation dynamics, population resiliency, and species diversity. Fish movements along stream networks connect populations across diverse landscapes, and therefore, protecting and restoring stream connectivity along inland streams such as the Smith River is critical to maintaining productive fish assemblages.
Equivalent static wind load based on displacement mode and load combination for high‐rise buildings
Authors: Guan Haiwei , Tian Yuji , Chen Weihu , Qi Yuliang
Published: August 2024

Under the action of the fluctuating wind load, the low frequency part produces background response to the structures, while the high frequency part produces resonance response to the structures. In structural design, equivalent static wind load is usually used to equate the fluctuating wind load. Although there are various methods of evaluating the equivalent static wind load, they did not consider the correlation between modal responses or considered them insufficiently. Therefore, in this paper, the correlation between modal response is considered to evaluate the equivalent static wind load, the displacement response is decomposed by proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) method, the correlation between modal displacement is removed, the equivalent static wind load is expressed in the form of displacement mode, and then the correlation between modal response is fully considered in the extreme value combination. This paper combines the equivalent static wind loads in order to make the wind resistance design more reasonable for high‐rise buildings. First, the formulas of equivalent static wind loads expressed by displacement modes of background and resonant response are deduced based on modal decomposition and POD method. Second, the combination formulas of square‐root‐of‐sum‐square (SRSS) and complete‐quadratic‐combination (CQC) rules for the equivalent static wind loads considering the mean wind loads are proposed. Both the linear combination formula of SRSS for the equivalent static wind load and the weighting factor expressions of background and resonance equivalent static wind load are given. Third, the accuracy and validity of the formulas of equivalent static wind load are verified by a wind tunnel pressure test of a high‐rise building. Finally, the simplified combination coefficient formulas for the equivalent static wind loads are proposed, and the combination of the high‐rise building base's fluctuating equivalent static wind loads of along‐wind direction, across‐wind direction, and torsional direction is analyzed.
Psychedelika und Dissoziativa in der Psychiatrie: Herausforderungen in der Behandlung
Authors: Jungwirth Johannes , Bavato Francesco , Quednow Boris B.
Published: August 2024

Mit der Entdeckung der antidepressiven Effekte des Ketamins und dem zunehmenden Rückzug der Pharmaindustrie aus der Entwicklung neuer Psychopharmaka ist die psychiatrische Forschung zur klinischen Anwendung von Halluzinogenen in der Psychiatrie in den letzten zwei Dekaden geradezu erblüht. Vielversprechende Befunde zu verschiedenen Therapieansätzen mit Psychedelika, wie Lysergsäurediethylamid (LSD) und Psilocybin, und Dissoziativa, wie Ketamin und Esketamin, haben in den letzten Jahren bei Forscher:innen, Kliniker:innen und Patient:innen große Hoffnungen geweckt, sodass bereits von einer Zeitenwende in der Psychiatrie die Rede war. Als eine der ersten dieser Substanzen wurde intranasales Esketamin im Dezember 2019 in den USA und der EU für die Behandlung der therapieresistenten Depressionen zugelassen, die Schweiz zog 2020 nach. Psilocybin kann seit kurzem in Australien, Kanada und der Schweiz in Ausnahmefällen für die Depressionsbehandlung eingesetzt werden, während derzeit große Zulassungsstudien mit verschiedenen Psychedelika weltweit auf dem Weg sind. Psychedelika und Ketamin/Esketamin gelten in der medizinischen Anwendung als sicher. Doch wie bei jeder neuen Therapie ist es von entscheidender Bedeutung, neben den Hoffnungen auch die spezifischen Herausforderungen dieser neuen Therapieansätze sorgfältig zu betrachten und zu beurteilen. Überhöhte Erwartungen und eine unzureichende Risiko-Nutzen-Abschätzung schaden den Patient:innen und dem Ansehen der Behandelnden. Während bereits von einem möglichen Paradigmenwechsel in der psychischen Gesundheitsversorgung gesprochen wird, soll in dieser Überblicksarbeit der Fokus bewusst auf die möglichen Risiken der Behandlung und die methodischen Schwächen bisheriger Studien gerichtet werden.
Optimizing crash box design to meet injury criteria: a protocol for accurate simulation and material selection
Authors: Rostro-González Horacio , Puigoriol-Forcada Josep Maria , Pérez-Peña Armando , Menacho Joaquin , Garcia-Granada Andrés-Amador
Published: August 2024

The design of a deformation element or crash box that meets a given injury criterion based on deceleration requires careful consideration of physical properties and space requirements. Variations in material yield stress or geometry can result in statistical variations in the injury criterion output. Optimizing the crash box to fulfil two different injury criteria and two different energy levels may require more space than initially specified. In this study, we propose a protocol where the crash box is collapsed, and force–displacement is fitted to an equation. This fit is carried out with just two simulations and compared to 30 possible scenarios, obtaining a maximum error of 38.9%. With this initial fit, the appropriate thickness and yield stress can be chosen to perform crashes with two energy levels and monitor four injury values. With the ideal yield stress and sheet metal thickness, we introduce real statistical distributions using Monte Carlo design to perform 200 simulations and obtain 400 injury values for each design proposal. This technique ensures that the design will meet injury requirements for any possible combination of thickness and yield stress accepted by quality inspection. If only one simulation is performed, all designs meet the requirements, but only the last proposed design decreased the average injury to 9.2 g with a standard deviation of 2.68 g and a maximum value of 14.4 g, which is less than the required 15 g. This technique minimizes the risk of finding combinations of yield stress and thickness that produce an undesirable injury criterion.
Zum Heilpraktiker, zum Psychologischen Psychotherapeuten oder doch lieber zum Facharzt?
Authors: Pippig Jens , Meyer Jörn , Ehlers Jan P.
Published: August 2024

Hintergrund

In Deutschland besteht neben approbierten Psychotherapeut:innen auch die Möglichkeit für Heilpraktiker:innen, im Bereich der Psychotherapie tätig zu werden. Die z. T. unscharfen Berufsbezeichnungen führen häufig zu Unklarheiten und Verwechslungsgefahr bei Patient:innen bezüglich der Qualifikation der Anbieter:innen.

Ziel der Arbeit

Die Studie untersuchte, ob Patient:innen eine klare Präferenz für qualifizierte Psychotherapeut:innen gegenüber Heilpraktiker:innen haben, und ob die Bezeichnung sowie akademische Titel die Präferenz beeinflussen.

Material und Methoden

Es wurde eine Online-Befragung mit 2332 Teilnehmenden durchgeführt, die Erfahrung mit oder Interesse an Psychotherapie hatten. Den Teilnehmenden wurden Praxisschilder mit unterschiedlichen Berufsbezeichnungen, akademischen Titeln und Spezialisierungen präsentiert. Mittels Conjoint-Analyse wurden die Präferenzen analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Es konnte eine klare Präferenzhierarchie festgestellt werden: Approbierte Psychotherapeut:innen werden bevorzugt, gefolgt von Heilpraktiker:innen mit Psychologiestudium und schließlich Heilpraktiker:innen. Verschiedene Berufsbezeichnungen für Heilpraktiker:innen führen zu unterschiedlichen Präferenzen und werden durch Doktorgrade, Master-Abschlüsse und bestimmte Spezialisierungen aufgewertet, obwohl diese nicht zwangsläufig auf eine psychotherapeutische Qualifikation hinweisen.

Diskussion

Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die geschickte Wahl der Berufsbezeichnung zu einer positiveren Bewertung von Heilpraktiker:innen führt. Damit steigt das Risiko einer möglichen Verwechslung des Therapieangebots mit dem von approbierten Berufsgruppen. Die Lösung liegt sowohl in klarer Bezeichnungsregulierung als auch in der Etablierung von Ausbildungsstandards für ein niederschwelliges Angebot.
Comparative analysis of GPT-4-based ChatGPT’s diagnostic performance with radiologists using real-world radiology reports of brain tumors
Authors: Mitsuyama Yasuhito , Tatekawa Hiroyuki , Takita Hirotaka , Sasaki Fumi , Tashiro Akane , Oue Satoshi , Walston Shannon L. , Nonomiya Yuta , Shintani Ayumi , Miki Yukio , Ueda Daiju
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Large language models like GPT-4 have demonstrated potential for diagnosis in radiology. Previous studies investigating this potential primarily utilized quizzes from academic journals. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic capabilities of GPT-4-based Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT) using actual clinical radiology reports of brain tumors and compare its performance with that of neuroradiologists and general radiologists.

Methods

We collected brain MRI reports written in Japanese from preoperative brain tumor patients at two institutions from January 2017 to December 2021. The MRI reports were translated into English by radiologists. GPT-4 and five radiologists were presented with the same textual findings from the reports and asked to suggest differential and final diagnoses. The pathological diagnosis of the excised tumor served as the ground truth. McNemar’s test and Fisher’s exact test were used for statistical analysis.

Results

In a study analyzing 150 radiological reports, GPT-4 achieved a final diagnostic accuracy of 73%, while radiologists’ accuracy ranged from 65 to 79%. GPT-4’s final diagnostic accuracy using reports from neuroradiologists was higher at 80%, compared to 60% using those from general radiologists. In the realm of differential diagnoses, GPT-4’s accuracy was 94%, while radiologists’ fell between 73 and 89%. Notably, for these differential diagnoses, GPT-4’s accuracy remained consistent whether reports were from neuroradiologists or general radiologists.

Conclusion

GPT-4 exhibited good diagnostic capability, comparable to neuroradiologists in differentiating brain tumors from MRI reports. GPT-4 can be a second opinion for neuroradiologists on final diagnoses and a guidance tool for general radiologists and residents.

Clinical relevance statement

This study evaluated GPT-4-based ChatGPT’s diagnostic capabilities using real-world clinical MRI reports from brain tumor cases, revealing that its accuracy in interpreting brain tumors from MRI findings is competitive with radiologists.

Key Points

We investigated the diagnostic accuracy of GPT-4 using real-world clinical MRI reports of brain tumors.

GPT-4 achieved final and differential diagnostic accuracy that is comparable with neuroradiologists.

GPT-4 has the potential to improve the diagnostic process in clinical radiology.

Graphical Abstract
The influence of water turbulence on surface deformations and the gas transfer rate across an air–water interface
Authors: Bullee Pim A. , Weichert Stefan , Nore Astri , Li Leon , Ellingsen Simen Å. , Hearst R. Jason
Published: August 2024

We present experimental results of a study on oxygen transfer rates in a water channel facility with varying turbulence inflow conditions set by an active grid. We compare the change in gas transfer rate with different turbulence characteristics of the flow set by four different water channel and grid configurations. It was found that the change in gas transfer rate correlates best with the turbulence intensity in the vertical direction. The most turbulent cases increased the gas transfer rate by 30% compared to the low turbulence reference case. Between the two most turbulent cases studied here, the streamwise turbulence and largest length scales in the flow change, while the gas transfer rate is relatively unchanged. In contrast, for the two less turbulent cases where the magnitude of the fluctuations normal to the free surface are also smaller, the gas transfer rate is significantly reduced. Since the air–water interface plays an important role in the gas transfer process, special attention is given to the free-surface deformations. Despite taking measures to minimise it, the active grid also leaves a direct imprint on the free surface, and the majority of the waves on the surface originate from the grid itself. Surface deformations were, however, ruled out as a main driver for the increase in gas transfer because the increase in surface area is < 0.25%, which is two orders of magnitude smaller than the measured change in the gas transfer rate.
A New Merged Product Reveals Precipitation Features over Drylands in China
Authors: Luo Min , Liu Yuzhi , Gao Jie , Luo Run , Zhang Jinxia , Tan Ziyuan , Chen Siyu , Alam Khan
Published: August 2024

Due to the considerable uncertainties inherent in the datasets describing the spatiotemporal distributions of precipitation in the drylands of China, this study presents a new merged monthly precipitation product with a spatial resolution of approximately 0.2° × 0.2° during 1980–2019. The newly developed precipitation product was validated at different temporal scales (e.g., monthly, seasonally, and annually). The results show that the new product consistently aligns with the spatiotemporal distributions reported by the Chinese Meteorological Administration Land Data Assimilation System (CLDAS) product and Multi-Source Weighted Ensemble Precipitation (MSWEP). The merged product exhibits exceptional quality in describing the drylands of China, with a bias of −2.19 mm month−1 relative to MSWEP. In addition, the annual trend of the merged product (0.09 mm month−1 yr−1) also closely aligns with that of the MSWEP (0.11 mm month−1 yr−1) during 1980–2019. The increasing trend indicates that the water cycle and wetting process intensified in the drylands of China during this period. In particular, there was an increase in wetting during the period from 2001–2019. Generally, the merged product exhibits potential value for improving our understanding of the climate and water cycle in the drylands of China.
Dietary trajectories over 21 years and frailty in Norwegian older adults: the Tromsø Study 1994–2016
Authors: Konglevoll Dina M. , Andersen Lene F. , Thoresen Magne , Totland Torunn H. , Hopstock Laila A. , Hjartåker Anette , Carlsen Monica H.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To investigate the association between five dietary trajectories over 21 years and frailty in Norwegian older adults.

Methods

This study used data from three surveys of the Tromsø Study. Diet was measured using food frequency questionnaires at baseline (Tromsø4, 1994–95), after 7 years (Tromsø5, 2001) and at the end of follow-up (Tromsø7, 2015–16). Survey-specific diet scores were constructed based on the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023 and group-based trajectory modelling was used to derive dietary trajectories. At follow-up, frailty was assessed with a 41-item frailty index. Linear regression analysis was performed to assess the associations between dietary trajectories and frailty, adjusted for baseline variables.

Results

Among the 715 participants, 55% were women, with an average age of 54 years at baseline and 74 years at follow-up. The dietary trajectories ‘moderately healthy’ and ‘healthy increase’ were associated with a lower frailty index score at follow-up (β = −0.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.04, −0.002, β = −0.03, 95% CI = −0.06, −0.007), compared with the ‘unhealthy’ trajectory.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that maintaining a moderately healthy to very healthy diet from mid-life into older age is associated with a lower risk of frailty and supports the promotion of a healthy diet from adulthood to facilitate healthy ageing.
Proton pencil beam scanning radiotherapy in the postoperative treatment of p16 positive squamous cell tonsillar cancer – evaluation of toxicity and effectivity
Authors: Kubeš Jiří , Al-Hamami Sarah , Sláviková Silvia , Vítek Pavel , Haas Alexandra , Dědečková Kateřina , Ondrová Barbora , Andrlik Michal , Navrátil Matěj , Rotnáglová Eliška , Vondráček Vladimír
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Patients with p16 positive tonsillar cancer (p16 + TC) have an excellent prognosis and long-life expectancy. Deintensification of therapy is a prevalent topic of discussion. Proton radiotherapy is one way to reduce radiation exposure and thus reduce acute and late toxicity. The aim is to evaluate treatment outcomes and toxicity of postoperative treatment with intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT).

Methods

Between September 2013 and November 2021, 47 patients with p16 + TC were treated postoperatively with IMPT. Median age was 54.9 (38.2–74.9) years, 31 were males and 16 were females. All patients had squamous cell carcinoma and underwent surgery as a primary treatment. Median dose of radiotherapy was 66 GyE in 33 fractions. Bilateral neck irradiation was used in 39 patients and unilateral in 8. Concomitant chemotherapy was applied in 24 patients.

Results

Median follow-up time was 4.2 (0.15–9.64) years. Five-year overall survival, relapse free survival and local control were 95.7%, 97.8% and 100%. The most common acute toxicities were dermatitis and mucositis, with grade 2 + in 61.7% and 70.2% of patients. No acute percutaneous gastrostomy insertion was necessary and intravenous rehydration was used in 12.8% of patients. The most common late toxicity was grade 1 xerostomia in 70.2% of patients and grade 2 in 10.6% of patients. Subcutaneous fibrosis of grades 2 and 3 occurred in 17.0% and 2.1% of patients, respectively. One patient developed late severe dysphagia and became PEG-dependent.

Conclusion

IMPT for the postoperative treatment of p16 + TC is feasible with excellent efficiency and acceptable acute and late toxicity.
ERBB2/ ERBB3-mutated S100/ SOX10-positive unclassified high-grade uterine sarcoma: first detailed description of a novel entity
Authors: Agaimy Abbas , Dermawan Josephine K. , Haller Florian , Semrau Sabine , Meidenbauer Norbert , Stoehr Robert , Lax Sigurd , Hartmann Arndt , Zou Ying S. , Xing Deyin , Tögel Lars , Gross John M. , Michal Michael
Published: August 2024

With the increasing use of innovative next generation sequencing (NGS) platforms in routine diagnostic and research settings, the genetic landscape of uterine sarcomas has been dynamically evolving during the last two decades. Notably, the majority of recently recognized genotypes in uterine sarcomas represent gene fusions, while recurrent oncogene mutations of diagnostic and/ or therapeutic value have been rare. Recently, a distinctive aggressive uterine sarcoma expressing S100 and SOX10, but otherwise lacking diagnostic morphological, immunophenotypic and molecular features of other uterine malignancies has been presented in a scientific abstract form (USCAP, 2023), but detailed description and delineation of the entity is still missing. We herein describe two high-grade unclassified uterine sarcomas characterized by spindle to round cell morphology and diffuse expression of S100 and SOX10, originating in the uterine body and cervix of 53- and 45-year-old women and carrying an ERBB3 (p.Glu928Gly) and an ERBB2 (p.Val777Leu) mutation, respectively. Both tumors harbored in addition genomic HER2 amplification, ATRX mutation and CDKN2A deletion. Methylation studies revealed a methylome most similar to MPNST-like tumors, but distinct from melanoma, MPNST, clear cell sarcoma, and endometrial stromal sarcoma. Case 1 died of progressive peritoneal metastases after multiple trials of chemotherapy 47 months after diagnosis. Case 2 is a recent case who presented with a cervical mass, which was biopsied. This study defines a novel heretofore unrecognized aggressive uterine sarcoma with unique phenotypic and genotypic features. Given the potential value of targeting HER2, recognizing this tumor type is mandatory for appropriate therapeutic strategies and for better future delineation of the entity.
Dynamic causal modelling highlights the importance of decreased self-inhibition of the sensorimotor cortex in motor fatigability
Authors: Heimhofer Caroline , Bächinger Marc , Lehner Rea , Frässle Stefan , Henk Balsters Joshua , Wenderoth Nicole
Published: August 2024

Motor fatigability emerges when challenging motor tasks must be maintained over an extended period of time. It is frequently observed in everyday life and affects patients as well as healthy individuals. Motor fatigability can be measured using simple tasks like finger tapping at maximum speed for 30 s. This typically results in a rapid decrease of tapping frequency, a phenomenon called motor slowing. In a previous study (Bächinger et al, eLife, 8 (September), https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.46750, 2019), we showed that motor slowing goes hand in hand with a gradual increase in blood oxygen level dependent signal in the primary sensorimotor cortex (SM1), supplementary motor area (SMA), and dorsal premotor cortex (PMd). It is unclear what drives the activity increase in SM1 caused by motor slowing and whether motor fatigability affects the dynamic interactions between SM1, SMA, and PMd. Here, we performed dynamic causal modelling (DCM) on data of 24 healthy young participants collected during functional magnetic resonance imaging to answer this question. The regions of interest (ROI) were defined based on the peak activation within SM1, SMA, and PMd. The model space consisted of bilateral connections between all ROI, with intrinsic self-modulation as inhibitory, and driving inputs set to premotor areas. Our findings revealed that motor slowing was associated with a significant reduction in SM1 self-inhibition, as uncovered by testing the maximum à posteriori against 0 (t(23)=-4.51, p < 0.001). Additionally, the model revealed a significant decrease in the driving input to premotor areas (t(23) > 2.71, p < 0.05) suggesting that structures other than cortical motor areas may contribute to motor fatigability.
HER2 amplification subtype intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma exhibits high mutation burden and T cell exhaustion microenvironment
Authors: Pu Xiaohong , Li Lin , Xu Feng , Wang Ziyu , Fu Yao , Wu Hongyan , Ren Jun , Chen Jun , Sun Beicheng
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed to establish a uniform standard for the interpretation of HER2 gene and protein statuses in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). We also intended to explore the clinical pathological characteristics, molecular features, RNA expression and immune microenvironment of HER2-positive ICC.

Methods

We analyzed a cohort of 304 ICCs using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to identify HER2 status. Comprehensive analyses of the clinicopathological, molecular genetic, and RNA expression characterizations of ICCs with varying HER2 statuses were performed using next-generation sequencing. We further investigated the tumor microenvironment of ICCs with different HER2 statuses using IHC and multiplex immunofluorescence staining.

Results

HER2/CEP17 ratio of ≥ 2.0 and HER2 copy number ≥ 4.0; or HER2 copy number ≥ 6.0 were setup as FISH positive criteria. Based on this criterion, 13 (4.27%, 13/304) samples were classified as having HER2 amplification. The agreement between FISH and IHC results in ICC was poor. HER2-amplified cases demonstrated a higher tumor mutational burden compared to non-amplified cases. No significant differences were observed in immune markers between the two groups. However, an increased density of CD8 + CTLA4 + and CD8 + FOXP3 + cells was identified in HER2 gene-amplified cases.

Conclusion

FISH proves to be more appropriate as the gold standard for HER2 evaluation in ICC. HER2 gene-amplified ICCs exhibit poorer prognosis, higher mutational burden, and T cell exhaustion and immune suppressed microenvironment.
Oncology researchers’ and clinicians’ perceptions of complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine: an international, cross-sectional survey
Authors: Ng Jeremy Y. , Kochhar Jassimar , Cramer Holger
Published: August 2024

Background

Complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine (CAIM) has become an increasingly popular supportive therapy option for patients with cancer. The objective of this study was to investigate how researchers and clinicians in the oncology field perceive CAIM.

Methods

We conducted an online, anonymous, cross-sectional survey for researchers and clinicians who have published their work in oncology journals that are indexed in MEDLINE. The link to the survey was sent to 47, 991 researchers and clinicians whose contact information was extracted from their publications. The survey included various multiple-choice questions, and one open-ended question at the end to allow for any additional comments.

Results

751 respondents completed the survey, and they mostly identified themselves as researchers (n = 329, 45.13%), or as both researchers and clinicians (n = 332, 45.45%) in the field of oncology. Over half of the respondents perceive mind–body therapies (n = 354, 54.97%) to be the most promising CAIM category with regards to the prevention, treatment, and/or management of diseases related to oncology, and many respondents agreed that most CAIM therapies are safe (n = 218, 37.39%), and that clinicians should receive training on CAIM therapies via formal (n = 225, 38.59%) and supplemental education (n = 290, 49.83%). However, many respondents were unsure when asked if most CAIM therapies are effective (n = 202, 34.77%).

Conclusions

The findings from this study demonstrated great current interest in the use of CAIM in oncology. This information can serve as a foundation for conducting additional research and creating customized educational materials for researchers and clinicians in oncology.
Inclusivity in prostate cancer and exercise research: a systematic review
Authors: Ashton Ruth E. , Faghy Mark A. , Roscoe Clare M. P. , Aning Jonathan
Published: August 2024

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most prevalent type of cancer in men in the UK. Exercise has been shown to improve the health and quality of life of PCa patients. Exercise should be easily accessible to men with PCa regardless of socioeconomic group or ethnicity. There is a need to better understand whether the current evidence base for exercise interventions is representative and inclusive of racial and ethnic minority men with PCa.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines and prospectively registered via Prospero (ID: CRD42022384373). The MEDLINE Ovid, Cochrane Library and PubMed databases were searched from inception to December 2022. The search strategy keywords and MeSH terms used included the following: (1) exercise, (2) training, (3) prostate cancer, (4) ethnic and (5) diversity.

Results

A total of 778 records were retrieved from database searches, of which 15 records were duplicates. A further 649 were eliminated following the screening of titles and abstracts. After full-text screening of 186 articles, 28 manuscripts were included for review.

Conclusion

This systematic review highlights that there is high heterogeneity in the reporting of participants’ ethnicity and there are low numbers of ethnic minority men included in PCa and exercise studies in the UK. Further work is required to understand why representation is lacking within PCa exercise trials in the UK and strategies are needed to achieve representation from all ethnic groups.

Implications for cancer survivors

Improved representation and reporting of ethnicity in exercise trials is vital to ensure the results are applicable to all patients.
Median effective dose of spinal ropivacaine in combined spinal and epidural anesthesia for emergency cesarean delivery following failed vaginal delivery with epidural labor analgesia: a single-blind, sequential dose-finding study
Authors: Wei Yu , Ye Shanshan , Ma Rui , Xu Tao
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to estimate the median effective dose of intrathecal isobaric ropivacaine without opioid required for adequate cesarean delivery anesthesia after epidural labor analgesia.

Methods

Patients aged 20–40 years with American Society of Anesthesiology scores of I–II, body mass index ≤ 36, who underwent emergency cesarean delivery after failed vaginal delivery with epidural analgesia of a duration ≤ 6 h were included in the study. After removal of the epidural used for labor analgesia, a new combined spinal epidural was performed, and a dose of intrathecal isobaric ropivacaine without opioid was administered. The dose was determined using up–down methodology, with the starting patient's dose set to 12 mg. Adequate anesthesia, defined as a pinprick level no lower than T6 at 5 min after ropivacaine administration, resulted in the next patient receiving a dose of ropivacaine 1 mg higher, and inadequate anesthesia 1 mg lower. The primary outcome was the median (95% confidence interval (CI)) dose of spinal ropivacaine required for adequate cesarean delivery anesthesia.

Results

Of the 46 patients included in the study, 40 were analyzed. The median spinal ropivacaine dose was 8.11 mg (95% CI 7.29–8.93 mg) by the Dixon and Mood method and 8.06 mg (95% CI 6.93–9.00 mg) by isotonic regression. Two patients had high spinal anesthesia.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that for 50% of patients undergoing cesarean delivery after failed vaginal delivery with epidural analgesia, an 8-mg spinal dose of isobaric ropivacaine without opioid provides an anesthesia level no lower than T6 at 5 min.
Facial asymmetry outcome of orthognathic surgery in mild craniofacial microsomia compared to non-syndromic class II asymmetry
Authors: Chen Yun-Fang , Baan Frank , Bergé Stefaan , Liao Yu-Fang , Maal Thomas , Xi Tong
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To compare the facial asymmetry after bimaxillary surgery between mild craniofacial microsomia (CFM) and non-syndromic class II asymmetry.

Materials and methods

Cone-beam computed tomography scans of adults with Pruzansky-Kaban types I and IIA CFM (CFM groups, n = 20), non-syndromic skeletal class II asymmetry (Class II group, n = 20), and normal controls (control group, n = 20) were compared. The area asymmetry of lower face and jaw bones was quantified. Landmark-based method was used to evaluate the lower facial asymmetry regarding midline, cants, and contour.

Results

There were no significant postoperative differences in the hemi-facial and hemi-jaw area asymmetry between CFM and Class II groups, both of which were significantly larger than the control group. No significant difference was found in the midline deviation and lip and occlusal cants between CFM and Class II groups. The vertical contour asymmetry in CFM group became significantly larger than Class II group. Compared to the control group, the deviation of pronasale, subnasale, and soft-tissue menton, lip and occlusal cants, and sagittal and vertical contour asymmetry in CFM group were significantly larger, as were the deviation of subnasale and soft-tissue menton and vertical contour asymmetry in Class II group.

Conclusions

The vertical contour asymmetry of mild CFM was significantly larger than non-CFM class II after surgery, while the area asymmetry, midline deviation, cants, and sagittal contour asymmetry of lower face showed no significant difference.

Clinical relevance

Be aware that correcting vertical asymmetry of contour, lip, and dentition in CFM is still challenging.
A Place of Safety? Women, Crimmigration Control and a Stigmatised Identity
Authors: Cortvriend Amy
Published: August 2024

Asylum claimants’ experiences of crimmigration controls are shaped by gender, race, and class. This article seeks to show how intersecting identities of women seeking asylum interact with stigma. The article draws from research with 16 asylum seekers in the UK which incorporated narrative interviews, ethnography, and the use of text messaging as a diary method. The article finds that intersecting identities are impacted by crimmigration controls to develop a stigmatised identity. Despite attempts to hide their immigration status, the stigma associated with ‘being’ an asylum seeker was internalised and this became women’s dominant identity, resulting in a series of harms including social isolation.
Has a dedicated biodiversity offsets policy improved the environmental and social compensation outcomes of development in Australia?
Authors: Abdo Linda J. , Griffin Sandy , Kemp Annabeth , Coupland Grey
Published: August 2024

Biodiversity offsets are used worldwide to provide environmental compensation for the impacts of development and to meet the goals of sustainable development. Australia has embraced the use of offsets and its offset methodologies have been used as models by other jurisdictions. However, the maturity of offset requirements in Australia is unknown. To understand this, development referrals submitted under the Australian Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth) between October 2011 and September 2017 were reviewed to determine if offset requirements in Australia were improving in complexity, transparency and/or environmental outcomes (termed maturity) over time. Despite the implementation of dedicated policy in Australia in 2012, our analysis showed that offset requirements were not on a trajectory towards improvement (maturity) over the 6-year period examined. There was no evidence to suggest the type of offsets required and compensation for impacts to specific species and habitats increased in complexity over time. The level of detail included for offset requirements, mandatory commencement dates and requirements for ecological outcomes similarly did not increase over time. Consequently, dedicated legislation for offsets is recommended to remedy these omissions and enable effective functionality for biodiversity offsets through the protection of the environment and conservation of biodiversity, ecosystem function and ecosystem services.
Are a Child’s Autistic Traits, Behavioural Difficulties, Prosocial Behaviour and Temperament Predictors of Parental Self-Efficacy and Satisfaction? A Study on Parents of Autistic and Neurotypical Children Aged 7–11 Years
Authors: Omelańczuk Iwona , Pisula Ewa
Published: August 2024

The aim of the study was to evaluate the significance of the severity of autistic traits, behavioural difficulties, prosocial behaviour and temperamental characteristics in children for parental self-efficacy and parental satisfaction in two groups of parents: parents of autistic children, and parents of neurotypical children. Data come from 145 parents of autistic children and 239 parents of neurotypical children. Using hierarchical multiple regression analyses, the analysis explored the role of child characteristics in prediction of parental self-efficacy and parental satisfaction. The regression model tested explained 21% variation in parental self-efficacy and 27% variation in parental satisfaction in parents of autistic children and 3% of variation of results with respect to parental self-efficacy and 17% variation in parental satisfaction in parents of neurotypical children. In both groups, parental self-efficacy and parental satisfaction were negatively correlated with such child characteristics as severity of behavioural difficulties, severity of autistic traits and emotionality as also positively related to the child’s prosocial behaviour. These findings may suggest that particularly useful mental health prevention programs for parents should combine two elements: developing parents’ abilities of effectively coping with children’s behavioural difficulties and working on attribution processes and negative convictions about parenthood.
Exploring the Intersection of Autism, Theory of Mind, and Driving Performance in Novice Drivers
Authors: Plunk Abigale , Weitlauf Amy S. , Warren Zachary , Levin Daniel , Sarkar Nilanjan
Published: August 2024

This study explores the intersection of Theory of Mind (ToM) abilities and driving performance among novice drivers, with a focus on autistic individuals. The purpose is to investigate how ToM deficits may impact driving behaviors and decision-making, ultimately informing the development of tailored interventions and training programs for autistic drivers. We conducted a series of driving simulations using a custom-built driving simulator, capturing multimodal data including driving performance metrics, attention allocation, and physiological responses. Participants were categorized based on NEPSY scores, which assess ToM abilities, and self-reported autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. Driving tasks were designed to simulate real-world scenarios, particularly focusing on intersections and merging, where ToM skills are crucial for safe navigation. Our analysis revealed differences in driving behaviors among participants with varying ToM abilities as determined through the NEPSY. Participants with lower NEPSY scores exhibited less smooth driving behaviors, increased risk-taking tendencies, and differences in attention allocation compared to those with higher scores. Alternatively, individuals with ASD displayed comparable driving patterns overall. ToM abilities influence driving behaviors and decision-making, particularly in complex social driving scenarios. Tailored interventions addressing ToM deficits and stress management could improve driving safety and accessibility for autistic individuals. This study underscores the importance of considering social cognitive factors in driving education and licensure pathways, aiming for greater inclusivity and accessibility in transportation systems.
Unveiling the human-like similarities of automatic facial expression recognition: An empirical exploration through explainable ai
Authors: Gaya-Morey F. Xavier , Ramis-Guarinos Silvia , Manresa-Yee Cristina , Buades-Rubio José M.
Published: August 2024

Facial expression recognition is vital for human behavior analysis, and deep learning has enabled models that can outperform humans. However, it is unclear how closely they mimic human processing. This study aims to explore the similarity between deep neural networks and human perception by comparing twelve different networks, including both general object classifiers and FER-specific models. We employ an innovative global explainable AI method to generate heatmaps, revealing crucial facial regions for the twelve networks trained on six facial expressions. We assess these results both quantitatively and qualitatively, comparing them to ground truth masks based on Friesen and Ekman’s description and among them. We use Intersection over Union (IoU) and normalized correlation coefficients for comparisons. We generate 72 heatmaps to highlight critical regions for each expression and architecture. Qualitatively, models with pre-trained weights show more similarity in heatmaps compared to those without pre-training. Specifically, eye and nose areas influence certain facial expressions, while the mouth is consistently important across all models and expressions. Quantitatively, we find low average IoU values (avg. 0.2702) across all expressions and architectures. The best-performing architecture averages 0.3269, while the worst-performing one averages 0.2066. Dendrograms, built with the normalized correlation coefficient, reveal two main clusters for most expressions: models with pre-training and models without pre-training. Findings suggest limited alignment between human and AI facial expression recognition, with network architectures influencing the similarity, as similar architectures prioritize similar facial regions.