bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Eco‐Friendly Passivation Strategy of Resveratrol for Highly Efficient and Antioxidative Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wu Xianhu , Bi Jieyu , Cui Guanglei , Liu Nian , Xia Gaojie , Sun Jilong , Jiang Jiaxin , Lu Ning , Li Ping , Zhao Chunyi , Zuo Zewen , Gu Min
Published: October 2024

The stability of perovskite solar cells is closely related to the defects in perovskite crystals, and a large number of crystal defects are caused by the solution method. In this study, resveratrol (RES), a green natural antioxidant abundant in knotweed and grape leaves, is introduced into perovskite films to passivate the defect. RES achieves defect passivation by interacting with uncoordinated Pb2+ in perovskite films. The defect formation energy of VPb and PbI on the surface of perovskite thin films is increased by RES doping, as calculated by density functional theory. The results show that the quality of the perovskite film is significantly improved, and the energy level structure of the device is optimized, and the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the device is increased from 21.62% to 23.44%. RES can hinder the degradation of perovskite structures by O2− free radicals, and the device retained 88% of its initial PCE after over 1000 h in pure oxygen environment. The device retains 91% of the initial PCE after >1000 h at 25 °C and 50 ± 5% relative humidity. This work provides an idea for the use of natural and environmentally friendly additives to improve the efficiency and stability of devices.
GenAI for Scientific Discovery in Electrochemical Energy Storage: State‐of‐the‐Art and Perspectives from Nano‐ and Micro‐Scale
Authors: Li Shuangqi , You Fengqi
Published: October 2024

The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and the increased reliance on renewable energy sources necessitate significant advancements in electrochemical energy storage systems. Fuel cells, lithium‐ion batteries, and flow batteries play a key role in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of energy usage in transportation and storage. Despite their potential, these technologies face limitations such as high costs, material scarcity, and efficiency challenges. This research introduces a novel integration of Generative AI (GenAI) within electrochemical energy storage systems to address these issues. By leveraging advanced GenAI techniques like Generative Adversarial Networks, autoencoders, diffusion and flow‐based models, and multimodal large language models, this paper demonstrates significant improvements in material discovery, battery design, performance prediction, and lifecycle management across different types of electrochemical storage systems. The research further emphasizes the importance of nano‐ and micro‐scale interactions, providing detailed insights into optimizing these interactions for improved efficiency and longevity. Additionally, the paper discusses the challenges and future directions for integrating GenAI in energy storage research, highlighting the importance of data quality, model transparency, workflow integration, scalability, and ethical considerations. By addressing these aspects, this research sets a new benchmark for the use of GenAI in battery development, promoting sustainable, efficient, and safer energy solutions.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation Performance by Micropore‐Confined Charge Transfer in Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Framework‐Like Cocrystals
Authors: Wang Lingsong , Deng Jingheng , Bai Shuming , Wu Yunxin , Zhu Weigang
Published: October 2024

Carrier utilization in organic photocatalytic materials is unsatisfactory due to the large exciton binding energy and short exciton diffusion length. Both donor–acceptor (D–A) strategies and porous designs are promising approaches to improve carrier utilization in photocatalysts. However, a more efficient way is to shorten the distance of exciton migration to the catalyst surface by the charge transfer (CT) process. Herein, hydrogen‐bonded organic framework‐like cocrystal (NDI‐Cor HOF‐cocrystal) is prepared with novel structures serving as a proof of concept for the approach, using N, N'‐bis (5‐isophthalate) naphthalimide (NDI‐COOH) as the porous framework and acceptor, and Coronene (Cor) as the donor unit. CT and porous engineering are integrated through cocrystal strategy. Under light irradiation, photogenerated excitons transfer and dissociate from the inner surface of the micropores on a hundred‐picosecond time scale, where efficient radical transformation and further redox reactions with adsorbed phenol molecules occur. NDI‐Cor HOF‐cocrystal photocatalytic degradation of phenol is 15 times higher than that of original HOFs, and achieves near 90% deep mineralization of phenol. Significantly, this work has designed novel HOF‐cocrystal and also provides new modification strategies for high performance organic photocatalysts.
Polar Covalent Triazine Frameworks as High‐Performance Potassium Metal Battery Cathodes
Authors: Yang Hongyan , Chen Xiaokang , Mou Yujin , Li Qi , Liu Jiaojiao , Sun Lanju , Zhai Shengliang , Deng Wei‐Qiao , Wu Hao
Published: October 2024

The exploration of potassium metal batteries (PMBs) has been intensified, leveraging potassium's abundant availability, low redox potential, and small Stokes radius. Covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) stand out for their accessible nitrogen sites and customizable structures, making them attractive electrode materials. Nonetheless, there is a lack of established design principles to guide the development of high‐performance PMBs using CTFs. In this work, CTFs consisting of different monomers are used as PMB cathodes to investigate the structure‐performance correlation. The electronic structure analysis reveals the polar characteristic of a CTF derived from the tetracyanoquinodimethane monomer, setting it apart with superior capacity (161 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1), rate performance (85 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1), and stability (capacity retention of 81% after 1000 cycles) over three non‐polar counterparts in PMBs. Calculations based on density functional theory support the exceptional performance with increased K+ adsorption energy. Ultimately, among multifaceted factors, the polarity of CTF is the leading element that determines the K+ storage capability. These findings pave the way for the development of prudent CTF electrodes for high‐performance PMBs.
First Outbreak of African Swine Fever in Wild Boar in Nepal
Authors: Thakur Sameer , Rana Chandrakala , Joshi Naresh Prasad , Neupane Lokendra , Pokhrel Tirtha Raj , Shrestha Avash , Subedi Deepak
Published: October 2024

This case report documents the first confirmed outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) in a wild boar (Sus scrofa) in Nepal. The case was identified in a wild boar carcass found in Shuklaphanta National Park in February 2023. Post‐mortem findings, including splenomegaly, haemorrhagic lymph nodes and congested organs, were suggestive of ASF, which was confirmed by real‐time PCR. Epidemiological evidence indicates potential transmission from nearby ASF‐infected domestic pigs. This case underscores the critical need for rigorous biosecurity protocols, comprehensive surveillance and targeted wildlife management strategies to prevent further transmission between domestic pig and wild boar populations.
Working Memory Is as Working Memory Does: A Pluralist Take on the Center of the Mind
Authors: Gomez‐Lavin Javier
Published: October 2024

Working memory is thought to be the psychological capacity that enables us to maintain or manipulate information no longer in our environment for goal‐directed action. Recent work argues that working memory is not a so‐called natural kind and in turn cannot explain the cognitive processes attributed to it. This paper first clarifies the scope of this earlier critique and argues for a pluralist account of working memory. Under this account, working memory is variously realized by many mechanisms that contribute to the maintenance and manipulation of information across tasks. This view in effect updates one of the earliest pluralist formulations of working memory. Juxtaposing this view against deflationary descriptions allows us to delineate two gradients that help us chart various accounts of working memory and identify their respective theoretical commitments. In turn, we can isolate those accounts that fail to accord with the evidence supporting a pluralist view, and we can begin to rehabilitate working memory as a pluralist, and ultimately more informative, construct.
Explainable artificial intelligence for the interpretation of ensemble learning performance in algal bloom estimation
Authors: Park Jungsu , Seong Byeongchan , Park Yeonjeong , Lee Woo Hyoung , Heo Tae‐Young
Published: October 2024

Chlorophyll‐a (Chl‐a) concentrations, a key indicator of algal blooms, were estimated using the XGBoost machine learning model with 23 variables, including water quality and meteorological factors. The model performance was evaluated using three indices: root mean square error (RMSE), RMSE‐observation standard deviation ratio (RSR), and Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency. Nine datasets were created by averaging 1 hour data to cover time frequencies ranging from 1 hour to 1 month. The dataset with relatively high observation frequencies (1–24 h) maintained stability, with an RSR ranging between 0.61 and 0.65. However, the model's performance declined significantly for datasets with weekly and monthly intervals. The Shapley value (SHAP) analysis, an explainable artificial intelligence method, was further applied to provide a quantitative understanding of how environmental factors in the watershed impact the model's performance and is also utilized to enhance the practical applicability of the model in the field. The number of input variables for model construction increased sequentially from 1 to 23, starting from the variable with the highest SHAP value to that with the lowest. The model's performance plateaued after considering five or more variables, demonstrating that stable performance could be achieved using only a small number of variables, including relatively easily measured data collected by real‐time sensors, such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity. This result highlights the practicality of employing machine learning models and real‐time sensor‐based measurements for effective on‐site water quality management.

Practitioner Points

XAI quantifies the effects of environmental factors on algal bloom prediction models

The effects of input variable frequency and seasonality were analyzed using XAI

XAI analysis on key variables ensures cost‐effective model development
Is there still a place for ECCO2R?
Authors: Staudinger Thomas
Published: October 2024

The therapeutic target of extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal (ECCO2R) is the elimination of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the blood across a gas exchange membrane without influencing oxygenation to a clinically relevant extent. In acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), ECCO2R has been used to reduce tidal volume, plateau pressure, and driving pressure (“ultraprotective ventilation”). Despite achieving these goals, no benefits in outcome could be shown. Thus, in ARDS, the use of ECCO2R to achieve ultraprotective ventilation can no longer be recommended. Furthermore, ECCO2R has also been used to avoid intubation or facilitate weaning in obstructive lung failure as well as to avoid mechanical ventilation in patients during bridging to lung transplantation. Although these goals can be achieved in many patients, the effects on outcome still remain unclear due to lack of evidence. Despite involving less blood flow, smaller cannulas, and smaller gas exchange membranes compared with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, ECCO2R bears a comparable risk of complications, especially bleeding. Trials to define indications and analyze the risk–benefit balance are needed prior to implementation of ECCO2R as a standard therapy. Consequently, until then, ECCO2R should be used in clinical studies and experienced centers only. This article is freely available.
Deutschlands erste roboterassistierte postmortale Nierentransplantation: eine gute Option bei Adipositas permagna – wenn das Team stimmt
Authors: Reimold Philipp , Groeben Christer , Keil Christian , Kormann Fabian , Peters Liliane , Volberg Christian , Kortus-Götze Birgit , Wild Johannes , Hoyer Joachim , Flegar Luka , Huber Johannes
Published: October 2024

Roboterassistierte Nierentransplantationen werden in Europa seit 2015 durchgeführt. In Deutschland verbreitet sich die Technik langsam – zuletzt führten 3 urologische Zentren diese Art der Eingriffe durch. Im Folgenden präsentieren wir den ersten Fall einer postmortalen, roboterassistierten Nierentransplantation in Deutschland bei einem 60-jährigen Patienten. Neben der OP-Technik und dem klinischen Verlauf wird insbesondere auf Chancen dieser OP-Technik und auch deren Herausforderungen eingegangen. Zusammenfassend deckt sich die Erfahrung an unserem Zentrum mit den Erkenntnissen aus der Literatur, dass die roboterassistierte postmortale Nierentransplantation eine sichere Methode ist, um die Prinzipien der offenen Transplantationschirurgie um die Vorteile der minimal-invasiven Methodik zu ergänzen.
What is generative in generative artificial intelligence? A design-based perspective
Authors: Bordas Antoine , Le Masson Pascal , Thomas Maxime , Weil Benoit
Published: October 2024

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) models have attracted tremendous interest since the advent of ChatGPT, raising numerous opportunities and challenges. However, their generative power has not yet been studied, leaving open the question of what is truly generated by these tools. This paper addresses this question and precisely characterizes the generativity behind GenAI models. Owing to the latest advancements in engineering design, we first propose a framework for uncovering the various types of generativity. Then, we consider the main families of GenAI models and systematically analyze them to characterize their generativity within this framework. By doing so, we highlight the existence of two distinct generative levels in GenAI: one leading to the generation of new artifacts and the other leading to the generation of GenAI models themselves. We are also able to characterize the generativity of both of these levels, thus specifically confirming the generative power of GenAI and opening research avenues toward human-GenAI collaboration.
ESR Essentials: staging and restaging with FDG-PET/CT in oncology—practice recommendations by the European Society for Hybrid, Molecular and Translational Imaging
Authors: Ebner Ricarda , Sheikh Gabriel T. , Brendel Matthias , Ricke Jens , Cyran Clemens C.
Published: October 2024

Positron emission tomography (PET) stands as the paramount clinical molecular imaging modality, especially in oncology. Unlike conventional anatomical-morphological imaging methods such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), PET provides detailed visualizations of internal activity at the molecular and cellular levels.

18-fluorine-fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG)-PET combined with contrast-enhanced CT (ceCT) significantly improves the detection of various cancers. Appropriate patient selection is crucial, and physicians should carefully assess the appropriateness of [18F]FDG-PET/CT based on specific clinical criteria and evidence. Due to its high diagnostic accuracy, [18F]FDG-PET/CT is indispensable for evaluating the extent of disease, staging, and restaging known malignancies, and assessing the response to therapy. PET/CT imaging offers significant advantages in patient management, particularly by identifying occult metastases that might otherwise go undetected. This can help prevent unnecessary surgeries, allowing many patients to be redirected to systemic chemotherapy instead. However, it is important to note that the gold standard for surgical planning remains CT and/or MRI, depending on the body region. These imaging modalities, with or without associated angiography, provide superior contrast and spatial resolution, essential for detailed surgical preparation and planning.

[18F]FDG-PET/CT has a central role in the precise and early diagnosis of cancer, contributing significantly to personalized treatment plans. However, it has limitations, including non-tumor-specific uptake and the potential to inaccurately capture the metabolic activity of certain tumor types due to low uptake in some well-differentiated tumor cell lines. Therefore, it should be utilized in clinical scenarios where it offers crucial diagnostic insights not readily available with other imaging modalities.

Key Points

Use [18F]FDG-PET/CT selectively based on clinical appropriateness criteria and existing evidence to optimize resource utilization and minimize patient exposure.

Employ [18F]FDG-PET/CT in treatment planning and monitoring, particularly for assessing chemotherapy or radiotherapy response in FDG-avid lymphoma and solid tumors.

When available, [18F]FDG-PET/CT can be integrated with other diagnostic tools, such as MRI, to enhance overall diagnostic accuracy.
Epigenetic landscape reorganisation and reactivation of embryonic development genes are associated with malignancy in IDH-mutant astrocytoma
Authors: Ghisai Santoesha A. , van Hijfte Levi , Vallentgoed Wies R. , Tesileanu C. Mircea S. , de Heer Iris , Kros Johan M. , Sanson Marc , Gorlia Thierry , Wick Wolfgang , Vogelbaum Michael A. , Brandes Alba A. , Franceschi Enrico , Clement Paul M. , Nowak Anna K. , Golfinopoulos Vassilis , van den Bent Martin J. , French Pim J. , Hoogstrate Youri
Published: October 2024

Accurate grading of IDH-mutant gliomas defines patient prognosis and guides the treatment path. Histological grading is challenging, and aside from CDKN2A/B homozygous deletions in IDH-mutant astrocytomas, there are no other objective molecular markers used for grading. RNA-sequencing was conducted on primary IDH-mutant astrocytomas (n = 138) included in the prospective CATNON trial, which was performed to assess the prognostic effect of adjuvant and concurrent temozolomide. We integrated the RNA-sequencing data with matched DNA-methylation and NGS data. We also used multi-omics data from IDH-mutant astrocytomas included in the TCGA dataset and validated results on matched primary and recurrent samples from the GLASS-NL study. Since discrete classes do not adequately capture grading of these tumours, we utilised DNA-methylation profiles to generate a Continuous Grading Coefficient (CGC) based on classification scores from a CNS-tumour classifier. CGC was an independent predictor of survival outperforming current WHO-CNS5 and methylation-based classification. Our RNA-sequencing analysis revealed four distinct transcription clusters that were associated with (i) upregulation of cell cycling genes; (ii) downregulation of glial differentiation genes; (iii) upregulation of embryonic development genes (e.g. HOX, PAX, and TBX) and (iv) upregulation of extracellular matrix genes. The upregulation of embryonic development genes was associated with a specific increase of CpG island methylation near these genes. Higher grade IDH-mutant astrocytomas have DNA-methylation signatures that, on the RNA level, are associated with increased cell cycling, tumour cell de-differentiation and extracellular matrix remodelling. These combined molecular signatures can serve as an objective marker for grading of IDH-mutant astrocytomas.
ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in human kidney tissue and urine extracellular vesicles with age, sex, and COVID-19
Authors: Bach Marie Lykke , Laftih Sara , Andresen Jesper K. , Pedersen Rune M. , Andersen Thomas Emil , Madsen Lone W. , Madsen Kirsten , Hinrichs Gitte R. , Zachar Rikke , Svenningsen Per , Lund Lars , Johansen Isik S. , Hansen Lennart Friis , Palarasah Yaseelan , Jensen Boye L.
Published: October 2024

SARS-CoV-2 virus infects cells by engaging with ACE2 requiring protease TMPRSS2. ACE2 is highly expressed in kidneys. Predictors for severe disease are high age and male sex. We hypothesized that ACE2 and TMPRSS2 proteins are more abundant (1) in males and with increasing age in kidney and (2) in urine and extracellular vesicles (EVs) from male patients with COVID-19 and (3) SARS-CoV-2 is present in urine and EVs during infection. Kidney cortex samples from patients subjected to cancer nephrectomy (male/female; < 50 years/˃75 years, n = 24; ˃80 years, n = 15) were analyzed for ACE2 and TMPRSS2 protein levels. Urine from patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection was analyzed for ACE2 and TMPRSS2. uEVs were used for immunoblotting and SARS-CoV-2 mRNA and antigen detection. Tissue ACE2 and TMPRSS2 protein levels did not change with age. ACE2 was not more abundant in male kidneys in any age group. ACE2 protein was associated with proximal tubule apical membranes in cortex. TMPRSS2 was observed predominantly in the medulla. ACE2 was elevated significantly in uEVs and urine from patients with COVID-19 with no sex difference compared with urine from controls w/wo albuminuria. TMPRSS2 was elevated in uEVs from males compared to female. ACE2 and TMPRSS2 did not co-localize in uEVs/apical membranes. SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein and mRNA were not detected in urine. Higher kidney ACE2 protein abundance is unlikely to explain higher susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection in males. Kidney tubular cells appear not highly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Loss of ACE2 into urine in COVID could impact susceptibility and angiotensin metabolism.
Characterization of human placental fetal vessels in gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Carstens Philine S. , Brendel Heike , Villar-Ballesteros M. Leyre , Mittag Jennifer , Hengst Clara , Brunssen Coy , Birdir Cahit , Taylor Paul D. , Poston Lucilla , Morawietz Henning
Published: October 2024

Gestational diabetes mellitus is one of the most common complications during pregnancy. Its prevalence is rapidly increasing worldwide. Gestational diabetes mellitus is leading to an elevated risk for the development of endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular diseases both in the mother and the child in later life. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are not well-understood. Therefore, we aimed to characterize the endothelial function in fetal placental vessels from mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus. In this study, we distinguished between insulin-treated and diet-controlled gestational diabetes mothers and compared them to a normoglycemic control group. The clinical data confirmed pre-conceptional overweight as a risk factor in women with insulin-treated gestational diabetes mellitus. The insulin-treated gestational diabetes group was also characterized by a recent family history of diabetes compared to mothers of the control or diet-controlled gestational diabetes group. Analyses of blood serum from umbilical cords suggested a reduced fetal insulin metabolism in the insulin-treated gestational diabetes group. Vascular function analysis in fetal placental vessels revealed an altered substance P-induced vasorelaxation in vessels from patients with insulin-dependent gestational diabetes. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase affected only fetal vessel segments from the control group or diet-controlled gestational diabetes group, but not from insulin-dependent gestational diabetes. Finally, we found a significantly decreased substance P receptor (TACR1) mRNA expression in fetal vessel segments from patients with insulin-treated gestational diabetes. In conclusion, we provide evidence that different pathophysiological mechanisms might be responsible for the development of insulin-treated versus diet-controlled gestational diabetes. Only in fetal vessels from patients with insulin-treated gestational diabetes were we able to detect an endothelial dysfunction and a reduced fetal insulin conversion. This provides novel insights into the pathophysiology of the subtypes of gestational diabetes.
The contribution of the sphingosine 1-phosphate signaling pathway to chronic kidney diseases: recent findings and new perspectives
Authors: Schwalm Stephanie , Manaila Roxana , Oftring Anke , Schaefer Liliana , von Gunten Stephan , Pfeilschifter Josef
Published: October 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a multifactorial condition with diverse etiologies, such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and genetic disorders, often culminating in end-stage renal disease (ESRD). A hallmark of CKD progression is kidney fibrosis, characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components, for which there is currently no effective anti-fibrotic therapy. Recent literature highlights the critical role of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) signaling in CKD pathogenesis and renal fibrosis. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the latest findings on S1P metabolism and signaling in renal fibrosis and in specific CKDs, including diabetic nephropathy (DN), lupus nephritis (LN), focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), Fabry disease (FD), and IgA nephropathy (IgAN). Emerging studies underscore the therapeutic potential of modulating S1P signaling with receptor modulators and inhibitors, such as fingolimod (FTY720) and more selective agents like ozanimod and cenerimod. Additionally, the current knowledge about the effects of established kidney protective therapies such as glucocorticoids and SGLT2 and ACE inhibitors on S1P signaling will be summarized. Furthermore, the review highlights the potential role of S1P as a biomarker for disease progression in CKD models, particularly in Fabry disease and diabetic nephropathy. Advanced technologies, including spatial transcriptomics, are further refining our understanding of S1P’s role within specific kidney compartments. Collectively, these insights emphasize the need for continued research into S1P signaling pathways as promising targets for CKD treatment strategies.
Endoscopic or combined management of post-surgical biliary leaks: a two-center recent experience
Authors: Quintini Dario , Rizzo Giacomo Emanuele Maria , Tarantino Ilaria , Sarzo Giacomo , Fantin Alberto , Miraglia Roberto , Maruzzelli Luigi , Ligresti Dario , Carrozza Lucio , Rancatore Gabriele , Gruttadauria Salvatore , Cillo Umberto , Ferrara Francesco , Traina Mario
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Post-surgical biliary leaks (PSBL) are one of the most prevalent and significant adverse events emerging after liver or biliary tract surgeries. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) alone or combined with another approach (Rendez Vous) as treatment of PSBL obtains optimal outcomes due to the possibility of modifying the resistances in the biliary tree.

Methods

A retrospective double-center study was conducted in two tertiary centers. Consecutive patients who underwent at least one attempt of PSBL correction by ERCP or Rendez Vous procedure between January 2018 and August 2023 were included. The primary outcome was overall endoscopic clinical success. In contrast, the secondary outcomes were hospital stay exceeding five days and endoscopic clinical success with the first endoscopic procedure at the tertiary center. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess outcomes.

Results

65 patients were included. Patients with one or multiple) leaks had more possibility to achieve the endoscopic clinical success compared to those affected by the association of leaks and stricture (96% vs 67%, p value 0.005). Leaks occurring in the main biliary duct had less probability (67%) to achieve the overall endoscopic clinical success compared to those in the end-to-end anastomosis (90%), in the resection plane or biliary stump (96%) or first or secondary order biliary branches (100%, p value 0.038). A leak-bridging stent positioning had more probability of achieving the endoscopic clinical success than a not leak-bridging stent (91% vs 53%, p value 0.005).

Conclusions

ERCP and Rendez Vous procedures are safe and effective for treating PSBL, regardless of the type of preceding surgery, even if technical or clinical success was not achieved on the first attempt. A stent should be placed, if feasible, leak-bridging to enhance treatment efficacy.

Graphical abstract
Exploring perceived relationships between weather, climate and mental health: biometeorological perspectives of healthcare practitioners
Authors: Waja Mukhtaar , Fitchett Jennifer M.
Published: October 2024

Over the last decade, there has been an increase in research examining the influence of weather and climate in mental health caseloads. Variations in temperature, sunshine hours, cloud cover, precipitation and extreme weather events have been statistically linked to diagnoses and increases in hospital admissions for several mental health conditions. This study aimed to explore whether mental health practitioners perceive there to be a link between mental health and daily, seasonal, or inter-annual shifts in various climate variables in South Africa, and the timing and causal mechanisms thereof. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 50 practicing healthcare practitioners, and the data was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings of this research show that all 50 participants were aware of the link between weather, climate and mental health, primarily through their awareness of seasonal affective disorder. Of the 50 participants, 38 participants could explain the aetiology of seasonal affective disorder. Participants perceived sunlight and temperature to exert an influence on mental health. All 50 participants perceived exposure to sunlight to exert a positive influence on several mental health conditions. Of the 50 participants, 36 participants perceived increases in temperature to exert an adverse effect on mental health symptomology. A minority of 11 participants perceived precipitation to influence mental health conditions such as seasonal affective disorder, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse disorder. Participants’ perceptions of the influence of precipitation on mental health provided a unique potential explanation of this relationship, which, at the time of writing, has not been discussed in formal research.
VISTA: vision improvement via split and reconstruct deep neural network for fundus image quality assessment
Authors: Khalid Saif , Abdulwahab Saddam , Stanchi Oscar Agustín , Quiroga Facundo Manuel , Ronchetti Franco , Puig Domenec , Rashwan Hatem A.
Published: October 2024

Widespread eye conditions such as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma impact people worldwide. Ophthalmology uses fundus photography for diagnosing these retinal disorders, but fundus images are prone to image quality challenges. Accurate diagnosis hinges on high-quality fundus images. Therefore, there is a need for image quality assessment methods to evaluate fundus images before diagnosis. Consequently, this paper introduces a deep learning model tailored for fundus images that supports large images. Our division method centres on preserving the original image’s high-resolution features while maintaining low computing and high accuracy. The proposed approach encompasses two fundamental components: an autoencoder model for input image reconstruction and image classification to classify the image quality based on the latent features extracted by the autoencoder, all performed at the original image size, without alteration, before reassembly for decoding networks. Through post hoc interpretability methods, we verified that our model focuses on key elements of fundus image quality. Additionally, an intrinsic interpretability module has been designed into the network that allows decomposing class scores into underlying concepts quality such as brightness or presence of anatomical structures. Experimental results in our model with EyeQ, a fundus image dataset with three categories (Good, Usable, and Rejected) demonstrate that our approach produces competitive outcomes compared to other deep learning-based methods with an overall accuracy of 0.9066, a precision of 0.8843, a recall of 0.8905, and an impressive F1-score of 0.8868. The code is publicly available at https://github.com/saifalkhaldiurv/VISTA_-Image-Quality-Assessment.
Defining a core outcome set for hypermobility spectrum disorders and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A Delphi consensus study
Authors: Clark Natalie L. , Johnson Melissa , Rangan Amar , Kottam Lucksy , Hogarth Andrea , Scott Sarah , Swainston Katherine
Published: October 2024

The reported prevalence of hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) is unclear due to complex presentations and lack of awareness amongst professionals, contributing to diagnostic and management uncertainties. Standardising an outcome measure to assess symptoms most important to patients should help determine the impact of interventions. This Delphi study aims to reach a consensus with stakeholders on the core outcome set for children and adults with HSD/hEDS. A three-round modified Delphi consensus study with a follow-up consensus meeting was used. Stakeholder groups consisted of (1) individuals with HSD/hEDS; (2) family/friends/carers and (3) healthcare professionals. Participants could belong to more than one stakeholder group. They rated 74 symptoms using a 9-point Likert scale: 1 “not important to 9 “critically important”. Symptoms achieving a consensus rating of ≥ 70.0% critical importance across all groups were included. In Round 1, 766 responses were received from 600 participants, reducing to 566 responses from 438 participants by Round 3, with 53 participating in the consensus meeting. Overall, 30 symptoms met the ≥ 70.0% critically important threshold to be included in the final core outcome set. These were categorised under the specialties of musculoskeletal and orthopaedics, social, pain, gynaecology and urology, negative affect, neurological, gastrointestinal and “other”. This study is the first to identify by consensus the core outcome set to be measured for patients with HSD/hEDS. The importance of these outcomes was confirmed by individuals living with the condition, their family, friends, carers and relevant healthcare professionals. Trial registration: IRAS ID: 326,855; East Midlands — Leicester South REC (reference: 23/EM/0143); Protocol registered with the COMET Initiative.

Key Points• There is a lack of standardised outcome measure for HSD/hEDS research studies due to the heterogeneity of symptom presentations.• Symptoms across musculoskeletal and orthopaedics, social, pain, gynaecology and urology, negative affect, neurological, gastrointestinal and “other” specialties were identified as the core outcome set defined as ≥ 70.0% critically important to measure for individuals with HSD/hEDS.• There were a significant number of symptoms, widely recognised in the literature to be comorbid to HSD/hEDS, that reached a critical importance threshold of 50.0–69.9%, restricting the core outcome set to only those that met 70% or above may be limiting.
Multi-Modal Pose Representations for 6-DOF Object Tracking
Authors: Majcher Mateusz , Kwolek Bogdan
Published: October 2024

Pose estimation methods for robotics should return a distribution of poses rather than just a single pose estimate. Motivated by this, in this work we investigate multi-modal pose representations for reliable 6-DoF object tracking. A neural network architecture for simultaneous object segmentation and estimation of fiducial points of the object on RGB images is proposed. Given a priori probability distribution of object poses a particle filter is employed to estimate the posterior probability distribution of object poses. An advanced observation model relying on matching the projected 3D model with the segmented object and a distance transform-based object representation is used to weight samples representing the probability distribution. Afterwards, the object pose determined by the PnP algorithm is included in the probability distribution via replacing a particle with the smallest weight. Next, a k-means++ algorithm is executed to determine modes in a multi-modal probability distribution. A multi-swarm particle swarm optimization is then executed to determine the finest modes in the probability distribution. A subset of particles for final pose optimization is found in a multi-criteria analysis using the TOPSIS algorithm. They are verified using conflicting criteria that are determined on the basis of object keypoints, segmented object, and the distance transform. On the challenging YCB-Video dataset it outperforms recent algorithms for both object pose estimation and object pose tracking.
Up-conversion materials for solid-state lighting
Authors: Almeida Rui M. , Alves E. , Santos Luís F.
Published: October 2024

Conventional phosphor-converted white LEDs (WLEDs), using (Stokes) down-conversion light emission, suffer from a red deficiency that increases the Color Temperature towards “cool white light” above 5000 K. The present work describes a phosphor-Up-converted WLED approach that wishes to overcome this issue by achieving white light generation (WLG) through Up-conversion photoluminescence (UCPL), without energy losses due to Stokes shift and excited by a 980 nm LED instead of the more expensive blue LEDs. The UC materials include thin films of lanthanide (Ln)-doped aluminosilicate glass multilayers, alternating (Ln)-doped aluminosilicate and titania films in the form of 1-D photonic crystals and Ln ion-implanted materials. Sol-gel (SG) processing has been used as a low-cost high purity processing method to prepare titania, as well as aluminosilicate films containing Er3+, Tm3+ and Yb3+, for WLG and possible application as WLED materials. The total Ln content varied from a high of 22 mol% to as low as 5.8 mol%. The materials prepared have been characterized by UV-Vis-NIR (using a variable angle specular reflection accessory), plus FTIR and UCPL spectroscopies. The UC light emission was analyzed with the help of CIE chromaticity diagrams.

Graphical abstract
The psychology of entrepreneurial performance—theoretical and applied: Robert A. Baron and Michael Frese, co-recipients of the 2024 Global Award for Entrepreneurship Research
Authors: McMullen Jeffery S. , Henrekson Magnus , Naldi Lucia , Stenkula Mikael , Thorburn Karin , Wigren-Kristoferson Caroline , Wincent Joakim , Zander Ivo
Published: October 2024

Professors Robert A. Baron and Michael Frese are the joint recipients of the 2024 Global Award for Entrepreneurship Research. Their research contributions have helped establish the disciplinary foundation necessary to explore entrepreneurship from theoretical and applied psychological perspectives. From a theoretical psychological perspective, Professor Baron has repeatedly introduced a disciplinary scaffolding from cognitive psychology, social psychology, and judgment and decision-making psychology to develop the field’s socio-cognitive perspective. He has examined entrepreneurship’s basic “why” questions: (1) Why do some persons but not others choose to become entrepreneurs? (2) Why do some persons but not others recognize opportunities for new products or services that can be profitably exploited? (3) Why are some entrepreneurs so much more successful than others? From an applied psychological perspective, Professor Frese has examined entrepreneurship as the epitome of a proactive approach to work, advocating the benefits of personal initiative and the need for a self-regulatory approach to performance among both small business owners and employees in transition economies. Continually taking stock of what is known about the psychology of entrepreneurship through reviews and meta-analysis, he and his students have advanced an evidence-based approach to entrepreneurial training and performance in challenging contexts. Together, Professors Baron and Frese have served as ambassadors for the field of entrepreneurship, welcoming an entire generation of micro scholars to explore the entrepreneurial process and the psychology of the entrepreneurs who enact it.
Transcervical Fibroid Ablation (TFA): Current Status and New Developments
Authors: Roy K. H. , Lindner Leslie Hansen , Gill Tasha L. , Hurst Bradley S.
Published: October 2024

Aim

Transcervical fibroid ablation offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical options for the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids using real-time visualization using intrauterine ultrasound guidance.

Purpose of Review

To review the recent clinical literature on transcervical fibroid ablation (TFA) with the Sonata® System and discuss new developments in the use of such technology.

Recent Findings

Nearly six years since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in the United States (2018) and 14 years since receiving CE Mark in Europe, TFA with the Sonata system has been used to treat over 30,000 myomas in more than 10,000 procedures world-wide. Data regarding pregnancy outcomes, timing of pregnancy, route of delivery, neoadjuvant use of GnRH analogues and whether TFA is an effective treatment for adenomyosis remain fertile areas for investigation. Significant complications have been rarely reported.
Urban Patterns from Space: A Remote Sensing Based Comparison Between France and Germany
Authors: Schmitt Andreas , Haselmayr Teresa , Taubenböck Hannes
Published: October 2024

This article presents two novel methods on how to derive and visualise settlement patterns from space: a non-parametric approach called multi-scale homogeneity and a parametric, unsupervised approach known as hierarchical multi-scale clustering that models the urban clusters with the help of Gaussian bell curves. The main advantage of remote sensing based acquisition and fully automated evaluation methods is their consistency over large coverages. The Global Urban Footprint-Density (GUF-DenS) indicating the degree of impervious surfaces worldwide serves as database. The geographical focus lies on the neighbouring central-European countries France and Germany. Assuming that the centralist and federal administrative systems resulting from the individual history show a certain impact on the urban patterns, both countries are first examined separately, then together as union. The numerical comparison proofs the expected differences: the settlement pattern of the capital Paris as the largest metropolitan region in France is dominating, whereas several economic clusters of more of less similar size like Rhine–Ruhr and Rhine–Main characterise the German urban landscape. The most interesting and unexpected findings are located along the border, where neighbouring urban ellipses overlay in the separate processing and form transnational clusters when processed as union. One can interpret that the national border does not play a role in the urban development (any longer). The temporal change of the settlement patterns as effect of the regional planning strategies or the opening of the inner-European border cannot be derived from the mono-temporal GUF-DenS and thus, will be subject to future studies.
The –WIND RISK project: nowcast and simulation of thunderstorm outflows
Authors: Burlando Massimiliano , Miglietta Mario Marcello , Avolio Elenio , Bechini Renzo , Cassola Federico , De Martin Francesco , Lagasio Martina , Milelli Massimo , Parodi Antonio , Romanic Djordje
Published: October 2024

–WIND RISK is a research project dealing with measurement and modelling of wind fields within thunderstorm cumulonimbus clouds and outflows at the ground (i.e., downbursts and gust fronts). The general objective of the project is to advance the knowledge about the processes occurring inside thunderstorm clouds responsible for strong outflows, and the identification of the environmental (synoptic and meso-scale) conditions favourable to their development. The area under investigation is Northwestern Italy and the Ligurian Sea, which are among the most exposed regions to strong thunderstorms in Europe. Two measurement campaigns using Doppler weather radars and remote-sensing ground-based anemometry, and ad-hoc simulations using the WRF model are carried out to build a database of thunderstorm wind fields with special focus on downdraft and downburst characterization. All measurements and simulations are shared within the scientific community after the end of the project through datasets published on open access platforms.
Let’s Be Honest: Adolescents Speak Up on How to Better Protect Young People from Gambling Harm
Authors: Lole Lisa , Hing Nerilee , Thorne Hannah , Sproston Kerry , Hodge Nicole , Rockloff Matthew
Published: October 2024

The importance of safeguarding young people from harmful gambling is widely acknowledged, but limited research has sought adolescents’ perspectives on strategies to provide this protection. The current study addresses this gap in understanding. Eighty-nine Australians aged 12–17 years, classed as either at-risk/problem gamblers, non-problem gamblers or non-gamblers, participated in qualitative interview and/or online community conditions. Themes extracted from the data on the things participants believe should be implemented to achieve this aim include open and honest advice from parents; schools-based education that is meaningful, authentic and based on lived experience; truth and transparency in advertising; social marketing that reaches and informs youth; and governments to regulate the gambling and gaming industries into acting ethically and not exploiting young people. At-risk/problem gambler adolescents were able to offer more detailed suggestions on strategies that would protect young people from gambling harm, frequently drawing on their own personal experiences or the stories they heard from others. Multifaceted strategies are required to help adolescents make informed decisions about gambling. Developing and implementing such strategies to protect minors from gambling harm requires a cohesive effort and commitment to addressing this public health issue. Recommendations on how regulators, industry, parents and other stakeholders may contribute to this effort are discussed.