bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic surface geometry inversion of Kimberlites in Botswana
Authors: Vatankhah Saeed , Lelièvre Peter G. , Matende Kitso , Mickus Kevin
Published: August 2024

Surface geometry inversion of geophysical data has recently been introduced as an effective approach for generating surface‐based geological models. The models obtained through surface geometry inversion clearly delineate the contacts between distinct rock units, making them easily interpretable by geologists. Surface geometry inversion has shown promising preliminary results in other works, but the practical application of surface geometry inversion on real geophysical data has not been thoroughly investigated. To move towards a better understanding of the practicalities involved, we applied surface geometry inversion to a real magnetic dataset acquired over two kimberlite pipes located in north‐central Botswana. The objective was to assess the effectiveness and limitations of the surface geometry inversion approach in accurately characterizing the subsurface geometry and identifying the boundaries of the kimberlite pipes. We first perform an anomaly separation approach to isolate the magnetic anomalies associated with the kimberlite pipes. A surface geometry inversion algorithm was applied to the original and separated datasets using various initial models and other control parameters. Several tests were performed to investigate the effects that data processing, initial models, and other parameter choices have on the surface geometry inversion results. We successfully recover the geometry, extension and dip of the two kimberlite pipes. We discuss the results of our various tests and provide advice for practitioners interested in applying surface geometry inversion methods to their data. Our work indicates that surface geometry inversion can be used as a complementary approach to voxel inversion, and we propose an iterative surface geometry inversion algorithm as a possible alternative approach to voxel inversion for simple geological scenarios. This work provides valuable insights into the appropriate application of surface geometry inversion on real geophysical datasets.
Decoupled approximate qP‐ and qSV‐wave equations in attenuated transversely isotropic media
Authors: Huang Rong , Wang Zhiliang , Song Guojie , Xiang Yanjin , Zhao Lei , Chen Puchun
Published: August 2024

Accurate seismic models with anisotropy and attenuation characteristics are crucial to accurately imaging subsurface structures. However, the anisotropic viscoelastic equations are complex and require significant computational resources. In addition, the single‐mode waves have been sufficient for most practical exploration needs. However, separating the qP‐ and qSV‐waves in anisotropic viscoelastic wavefields is challenging. Thus, we propose a new method to approximate and efficiently separate the qP‐ and qSV‐waves in attenuated transversely isotropic media. First, we obtain the decoupled approximate phase velocities of qP‐ and qSV‐waves by a curve‐fitting method. Consequently, based on the average and maximum relative error analysis, our approximate qP‐ and qSV‐wave phase velocities are more accurate than the existing approximations. Additionally, our approximations have broader applicability, resulting in acceptable errors during their application. Second, based on the approximate qP‐ and qSV‐wave phase velocities, we derive the corresponding qP‐ and qSV‐wave equations for a complete decoupling of the qP‐ and qSV‐wave components in transversely isotropic media. Third, to combine the attenuation and anisotropy characteristics, we incorporate the Kelvin–Voigt attenuation model and obtain the decoupled qP‐ and qSV‐wave equations in attenuated transversely isotropic media. Then, we use an efficient and stable hybrid finite‐difference and pseudo‐spectral method to solve the new decoupled qP‐ and qSV‐wave equations. Finally, several numerical examples demonstrate the separability and high accuracy of the proposed qP‐ and qSV‐wave equations. We obtain a qP‐wave wavefield entirely devoid of SV‐wave artefacts. In addition, the decoupled approximate qP‐ and qSV‐wave equations are accurate and stable in heterogeneous media with different velocities and attenuation. The decoupled, approximated qP‐wave and qSV‐wave equations proposed in this paper can effectively separate the qP‐wave and qSV‐wave components, resulting in fully decoupled qP‐ and qSV‐wave wavefields in attenuated transversely isotropic media.
The Scandinavian states' staffing of the United Nations‐system
Authors: Pugh Jonathan
Published: August 2024

This paper examines the Scandinavian states' staffing of middle and senior‐ranking positions within the United Nations (UN)‐system, in comparison to other members of the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). It is true that the Scandinavian states are overrepresented per the size of their population in both staffing categories; however, when it comes to a comparison of financial contributions to the UN regular budget, the three states are underrepresented compared to the rest of the OECD in staffing funded by that mechanism. Yet, the strong reputation of the Scandinavian states and their practitioners has still enabled them to disproportionately staff senior UN positions. To explain this, this paper utilises Pierre Bourdieu's concepts of capital, field, and habitus to explain how the three states' reputation within the UN‐system gives them an advantage in staffing senior positions.
Fabrication and characterisation of stable ternary complexes based on bovine lactoferrin, pectin and chlorogenic acid
Authors: He Yuxin , Lu Yingcong , Liu Yilin , Zhao Ru , Xia Boxue , Zhang Yuanyuan , Huang Xin , Wang Cuina
Published: August 2024

Stable ternary complexes of lactoferrin (LF), high methoxyl pectin (HMP) and chlorogenic acid (CGA) were synthesised and characterised. Soluble LF–HMP complexes were prepared at pH 5, 6 and 7 using established phase diagram. CGA bound to ternary complexes at moderate binding strength (Ka: 103–105 L/M). LF, HMP and CGA interacted via noncovalent interactions like hydrophobic interaction. Ternary complexes showed particle size of 135–462 nm (except for 0.05% CGA at pH 5) and zeta‐potential from −17 to −22 mV. Ternary complexes had superior antioxidant capacity over binary ones (P < 0.05). The ternary complexes may find application in functional beverages.
Effects of Medicaid Accountable Care Organizations on children's access to and utilization of health services
Authors: Constantin Joanne , Wehby George L.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effects of Medicaid Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) on children's access to and utilization of health services.

Study Setting and Design

This study employs difference‐in‐differences models comparing ACO and non‐ACO states from 2018 through 2021. Access measures are indicators for preventive and sick care sources, unmet healthcare needs, and having a personal doctor or nurse. Utilization measures are preventive and dental care, mental healthcare, specialist visits, emergency department visits, and hospital admissions.

Data Sources and Analytic Sample

Secondary, de‐identified data come from the 2016–2021 National Survey of Children's Health. The sample includes children with public insurance and ranges between 21,452 and 37,177 depending on the outcome.

Principal Findings

Medicaid ACO implementation was associated with an increase in children's likelihood of having a personal doctor or nurse by about 4 percentage‐points concentrated among states that implemented ACOs in 2018. Medicaid ACOs were also associated with an increase in specialist care use and decline in emergency visits by about 5 percentage‐points (the latter being concentrated among states that implemented ACOs in 2020). There were no discernable or robust associations with other pediatric outcomes.

Conclusions

There is mixed evidence on the associations of Medicaid ACOs with pediatric access and utilization outcomes. Examining effects over longer periods post‐ACO implementation is important.
Frond and mesophyll traits related to photosynthetic capacity and water‐use efficiency in ferns with different life‐forms ex situ
Authors: Ivanova Larissa A. , Tretyakova Alyona S. , Savitsky Evgeniy , Yudina Polina K. , Ivanov Leonid A.
Published: August 2024

Leaf traits are known as indicative of species functional properties in angiosperms. Fern fronds are little studied in this concern, especially ex situ. We studied leaf mesophyll structure, pigments and gas exchange in four fern species grown in a glasshouse—Sphaeropteris cooperi (terrestrial tree fern), Phlebodium aureum (semi‐epiphytic herbaceous), Asplenium australasicum (epiphytic shrubby) and Platycerium bifurcatum (epiphytic herbaceous). Saturated assimilation rate (Asat) decreased and intrinsic water use efficiency (iWUE) increased from a terrestrial tree fern to epiphytic ferns. Asat positively correlated with chloroplast number (Nchl/A) and their surface area per leaf area (Achl/A). iWUE negatively related to Nchl/A and chlorophyll/carotenoid ratio. Most differences between species were found in the mesophyll thickness (MT) and mesophyll cell volume (Vcell) with the smallest values in S. cooperi and the largest ones in P. bifurcatum. We found that photosynthetic limitations in ferns were related to the chloroplast photosynthetic activity rather than to Nchl/A or pigment content which did not differ from most angiosperms. Epiphytic ferns showed larger values of Vcell per cell and per chloroplast compared to angiosperms and tree ferns. We concluded that an increase in MT and Vcell in the studied ferns was not associated with photosynthetic performance, but was related to volumetric cytoplasm–chloroplast ratio meaningful to light absorption and the water‐storage function of fern fronds.
Acoustic features from speech as markers of depressive and manic symptoms in bipolar disorder: A prospective study
Authors: Kaczmarek‐Majer Katarzyna , Dominiak Monika , Antosik Anna Z. , Hryniewicz Olgierd , Kamińska Olga , Opara Karol , Owsiński Jan , Radziszewska Weronika , Sochacka Małgorzata , Święcicki Łukasz
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Voice features could be a sensitive marker of affective state in bipolar disorder (BD). Smartphone apps offer an excellent opportunity to collect voice data in the natural setting and become a useful tool in phase prediction in BD.

Aims of the Study

We investigate the relations between the symptoms of BD, evaluated by psychiatrists, and patients' voice characteristics. A smartphone app extracted acoustic parameters from the daily phone calls of n = 51 patients. We show how the prosodic, spectral, and voice quality features correlate with clinically assessed affective states and explore their usefulness in predicting the BD phase.

Methods

A smartphone app (BDmon) was developed to collect the voice signal and extract its physical features. BD patients used the application on average for 208 days. Psychiatrists assessed the severity of BD symptoms using the Hamilton depression rating scale −17 and the Young Mania rating scale. We analyze the relations between acoustic features of speech and patients' mental states using linear generalized mixed‐effect models.

Results

The prosodic, spectral, and voice quality parameters, are valid markers in assessing the severity of manic and depressive symptoms. The accuracy of the predictive generalized mixed‐effect model is 70.9%–71.4%. Significant differences in the effect sizes and directions are observed between female and male subgroups. The greater the severity of mania in males, the louder (β = 1.6) and higher the tone of voice (β = 0.71), more clearly (β = 1.35), and more sharply they speak (β = 0.95), and their conversations are longer (β = 1.64). For females, the observations are either exactly the opposite—the greater the severity of mania, the quieter (β = −0.27) and lower the tone of voice (β = −0.21) and less clearly (β = −0.25) they speak — or no correlations are found (length of speech). On the other hand, the greater the severity of bipolar depression in males, the quieter (β = −1.07) and less clearly they speak (β = −1.00). In females, no distinct correlations between the severity of depressive symptoms and the change in voice parameters are found.

Conclusions

Speech analysis provides physiological markers of affective symptoms in BD and acoustic features extracted from speech are effective in predicting BD phases. This could personalize monitoring and care for BD patients, helping to decide whether a specialist should be consulted.
Diagnostic and demographic factors of pediatric and adult catatonia hospitalizations: A 2016–2020 National Inpatient Sample Study
Authors: Luccarelli James , Kalinich Mark , Fricchione Gregory , Smith Felicia , Beach Scott R. , Smith Joshua R.
Published: August 2024

Objective

Catatonia is a neuropsychiatric disorder that can occur in patients of any age, but it is uncertain whether patient demographics or underlying diagnoses differ between pediatric and adult patients. This study investigates patients of all ages diagnosed with catatonia during acute care hospitalizations in the United States over a 5‐year period.

Method

The National Inpatient Sample, an all‐payors database of acute care hospital discharges, was queried for patients with a discharge diagnosis of catatonia between 2016 and 2020 with patients stratified by age as pediatric (≤18 years) or adult (>18 years).

Results

Among 174,776,205 hospitalizations recorded in the NIS from 2016 to 2020, 61,990 (95% CI: 60,257 to 63,723; 0.035%) involved a diagnosis of catatonia. Of these, 3255 were for pediatric patients and 58,735 were for adult patients. Compared with adult patients, pediatric catatonia patients were more likely to be male and non‐White. Diagnostically, psychotic disorders, encephalitis, and neurodevelopmental disorders were more common primary discharge diagnoses in pediatric patients, while adult patients more frequently were diagnosed with mood disorders. Length of stay was not significantly different between pediatric and adult catatonia hospitalizations. Physical restraints were commonly applied for patients with catatonia.

Conclusion

Pediatric and adult catatonia patients differed in sex, race, and diagnosis, although hospital length of stay was not different between pediatric and adult catatonia hospitalizations. These results may inform catatonia diagnosis in the hospital setting and point to disparities that could be targets of quality improvement efforts.
Trends and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes associated with stimulant‐related disorder diagnosis
Authors: Pippard Nicole S. , Bandoli Gretchen , Baer Rebecca J.
Published: August 2024

Background and aims

Stimulant‐related disorders (SRD), or the continued misuse of illicit or prescribed stimulants, during pregnancy can have adverse health effects for mothers and infants. This study aimed to measure prevalence and trends of SRD diagnosis in pregnancy, and associations between SRD diagnosis and adverse maternal and infant health outcomes, among pregnant individuals in California.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

California, USA.

Participants

Pregnant individuals from the Study of Outcomes in Mothers and Infants (SOMI) with singleton live births between 2012 and 2020 (n = 3 740 079).

Measurements

SRD diagnosis (excluding cocaine) and maternal (gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension [gHTN], severe maternal morbidity [SMM]) and infant (very preterm birth [gestational age <32 weeks], preterm birth [gestational age 32–37 weeks], neonatal intensive care unit [NICU] admission, small for gestational age [SGA]) outcomes were classified using International Classification of Disease (ICD) codes and vital statistics. Risk ratios were estimated with modified Poisson log linear regression that accounted for sibling pregnancies. Covariates included maternal sociodemographic characteristics, mental and physical health problems, nicotine use and co‐occurrence of other diagnosed substance use disorders. Bias analyses were conducted to address unmeasured confounding and exposure misclassification.

Findings

SRD diagnosis among pregnant individuals increased from 2012 to 2020 (554 to 748 per 100 000 births). SRD diagnosis was associated with an increased risk of SMM (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] = 2.3; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.2–2.5), gHTN (aRR = 1.8; 95% CI = 1.7–1.9), very preterm birth (aRR = 2.2, 95% CI = 2.0–2.5), preterm birth (aRR = 2.1, 95% CI = 2.1–2.2) and NICU admission (aRR = 2.0, 95%CI = 1.9–2.0), and a decreased risk of gestational diabetes (aRR = 0.8; 95% CI = 0.8–0.9). SRD diagnosis was not associated with infants born SGA. Findings were generally robust to unmeasured confounding and misclassification of diagnosis.

Conclusions

Stimulant‐related disorder diagnosis during pregnancy appears to be associated with an increased risk for select adverse maternal and infant health outcomes including severe maternal morbidity, gestational hypertension, very preterm birth, preterm birth and neonatal intensive care unit admission.
A cross‐cultural study on countries' environmental performance: The influence of religion
Authors: Di Pillo Francesca , Rossi Fabrizio
Published: August 2024

Although numerous scientific studies have extensively analyzed religion's impact on environmental performance at the firm level, the literature on environmental effects at a country level is relatively poor. This paper aims to fill this gap by studying how the dimensions of national culture, including religion, impact a country's sustainability performance in 96 countries. We apply Geert Hofstede's cross‐cultural dimensions and evaluate countries' sustainability performance using the EPI indicator, which provides a comprehensive environmental overview, including indicators such as climate change, environmental health, and ecosystem vitality. Additionally, to provide a more comprehensive framework for the sustainability performance of countries, we conducted a comparative analysis using the SDG index scores encompassing 1056 country‐year observations. Our findings suggest that the impact on a country's environmental performance varies according to the cultural dimension, mainly, the Christian religion positively influences national sustainability performance.
Predictors of successful expectant and medical management of miscarriage: A systematic review
Authors: Murugesu Sughashini , Braun Emily , Saso Srdjan , Bourne Tom
Published: August 2024

Introduction

15.3% of pregnancies result in miscarriage, management options include expectant, medical, or surgical. However, each patient has a range of variables, which makes navigating the available literature challenging when supporting individual patient decision‐making. This systematic review aims to investigate whether there are any specific predictors for miscarriage management outcome.

Material and Methods

The following databases were searched, from the start of each database up to April 2023: PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria were studies interrogating defined predictors for expectant or medical management of miscarriage success. Exclusion criteria were poor quality, review articles, trial protocols, and congress abstracts. Data collection was carried as per PRISMA guidelines. Quality assessment for each study was assessed using the QUIPS proforma.

Results

Relevant predictors include demographics, ultrasound features, presenting symptoms, and biochemical markers. Across the 24 studies there is heterogeneity in miscarriage definition, predictors reported, and management outcomes used. Associations with certain variables and miscarriage management outcomes are described. Ten studies assessed the impact of miscarriage type on expectant and/or medical management. The majority found that a diagnosis of incomplete miscarriage had a higher success rate following expectant or medical management compared to missed miscarriage or anembryonic pregnancy.

Conclusions

We conclude that there is evidence supporting the possibility to offer personalized miscarriage management advice with case specific predictors. Further larger studies with consistent definitions of predictors, management, and outcomes are needed in order to better support women through the decision‐making of miscarriage management.
Editorial: Tracking the course of Wilson's disease: Authors' reply
Authors: Burghart Lukas , Reiberger Thomas , Staettermayer Albert Friedrich
Published: August 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Burghart et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18060 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18153
Principles for delivering transformative co‐design methodologies with multiple stakeholders for achieving nature recovery in England
Authors: Barkley Lucy , Chivers Charlotte‐Anne , Short Chris , Bloxham Hannah
Published: August 2024

Achieving successful multi‐stakeholder collaboration for sustainable outcomes is complex. This paper provides key principles for future co‐design projects aimed at fostering an inclusive approach to research. These have been developed based on a novel methodology that co‐designed the essential components of a long‐term, collaborative agreement for a nature recovery scheme in England. Using an assortment of iterative, deliberative participatory methods, this research engaged a wide variety of stakeholders to produce a template agreement for an agri‐environmental policy. We demonstrate that a flexible, highly reflective approach resulted in positive engagement with previously marginalised stakeholders. The approach also successfully navigated the unequal power dynamics seen both within and between groups. Finally, multiple feedback loops allowed participants to continually build on previous interactions as they developed and reviewed the agreement. By drawing out the complexities of the co‐design process, this paper explains how co‐design efforts can produce potentially transformative outputs. We hope that the principles introduced here offer a useful starting point for those planning to undertake multi‐stakeholder co‐design.
Increases in sense of purpose predict future positive changes in personality traits
Authors: Joshanloo Mohsen
Published: August 2024

This longitudinal study examined the reciprocal relationship between the Big Five personality traits and sense of purpose over a 13‐year period using a nationally representative sample of American adults (N = 11,010). The random intercept cross‐lagged panel model revealed unidirectional effects: increases in sense of purpose predicted subsequent increases in openness, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and extraversion, as well as decreases in neuroticism. Conversely, changes in personality traits did not predict future changes in sense of purpose. One potential mechanism underlying this effect might involve the link between sense of purpose and optimal self‐regulatory processes and outcomes, such as successful planning, goal‐directed behaviour, and self‐control, which promote gradual positive changes in personality traits. Another plausible mechanism may be the association between purpose and improved subjective well‐being and reduced psychological distress, which have been found to predict positive changes in personality traits. These findings challenge previous research that has interpreted cross‐sectional associations as evidence that personality traits are predictive of purpose, rather than the other way around. The findings that intentionally cultivating a strong sense of purpose may facilitate positive personality change in adulthood.
The protein disulfide isomerase A3 and osteopontin axis promotes influenza‐induced lung remodelling
Authors: Kumar Amit , Mark Zoe F. , Carbajal Morgan P. , DeLima Dhemerson Souza , Chamberlain Nicolas , Walzer Joseph , Ruban Mona , Chandrasekaran Ravishankar , Daphtary Nirav , Aliyeva Minara , Poynter Matthew E. , Janssen‐Heininger Yvonne M. W. , Bates Jason H. , Alcorn John F. , Britto Clemente J. , Dela Cruz Charles S. , Jegga Anil G. , Anathy Vikas
Published: August 2024

Background and Purpose

Fibrotic lung remodelling after a respiratory viral infection represents a debilitating clinical sequela. Studying or managing viral–fibrotic sequela remains challenging, due to limited therapeutic options and lack of understanding of mechanisms. This study determined whether protein disulfide isomerase A3 (PDIA3) and secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1), which are associated with pulmonary fibrosis, can promote influenza‐induced lung fibrotic remodelling and whether inhibition of PDIA3 or SPP1 can resolve viral‐mediated fibrotic remodelling.

Experimental Approach

A retrospective analysis of TriNetX data sets was conducted. Serum from healthy controls and influenza A virus (IAV)‐infected patients was analysed. An inhibitor of PDIA3, punicalagin, and a neutralizing antibody for SPP1 were administered in mice. Macrophage cells treated with macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF) were used as a cell culture model.

Key Results

The TriNetX data set showed an increase in lung fibrosis and decline in lung function in flu‐infected acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients compared with non‐ARDS patients. Serum samples revealed a significant increase in SPP1 and PDIA3 in influenza‐infected patients. Lung PDIA3 and SPP1 expression increased following viral infection in mouse models. Punicalagin administration 2 weeks after IAV infection in mice caused a significant decrease in lung fibrosis and improved oxygen saturation. Administration of neutralizing SPP1 antibody decreased lung fibrosis. Inhibition of PDIA3 decreased SPP1secretion from macrophages, in association with diminished disulfide bonds in SPP1.

Conclusion and Implications

The PDIA3–SPP1 axis promotes post‐influenza lung fibrosis in mice and that pharmacological inhibition of PDIA3 or SPP1 can treat virus‐induced lung fibrotic sequela.
Newly developed humanized anti‐CKAP4 antibody suppresses pancreatic cancer growth by inhibiting DKK1‐CKAP4 signaling
Authors: Sada Ryota , Yamamoto Hideki , Matsumoto Shinji , Harada Akikazu , Kikuchi Akira
Published: August 2024

Cytoskeleton‐associated protein 4 (CKAP4) is a cell surface receptor for Dickkopf 1 (DKK1), a secreted protein. The DKK1–CKAP4 pathway is activated in various malignant tumors, including pancreatic, lung, esophageal, and liver cancers, to promote tumor growth. Thus, CKAP4 has been expected to represent a novel molecular target of cancer therapy. Recombinant mouse anti‐CKAP4 antibodies were generated based on an original mouse antibody (3F11‐2B10) and inhibited DKK1–CKAP4 signaling and xenograft tumor formation induced by pancreatic cancer cells, which was comparable with 3F11‐2B10. From the 3F11‐2B10 nucleotide sequence, humanized anti‐CKAP4 antibody (Hv1Lt1) was subsequently developed. The binding affinity of Hv1Lt1 for CKAP4 was superior to that of 3F11‐2B10. Hv1Lt1 inhibited DKK1 binding to CKAP4, AKT activity, and sphere formation of pancreatic cancer cells, which was comparable with 3F11‐2B10. Hv1Lt1 also suppressed xenograft tumor formation induced by human pancreatic cancer cells and tumor growth in murine cancer models, in which murine pancreatic cancer organoids were orthotopically transplanted into the pancreas. In resected tumor samples from mice treated with Hv1Lt1, anti‐tumor immune reactions were modulated and cytotoxic T cells were highly infiltrated in the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, combination of Hv1Lt1 and other chemotherapy drugs exhibited stronger effects compared with monotherapy. These results suggest that Hv1Lt1 represents a promising anti‐cancer therapy.
Overcoming immunotherapy resistance and inducing abscopal effects with boron neutron immunotherapy (B‐NIT)
Authors: Fujimoto Takuya , Yamasaki Osamu , Kanehira Noriyuki , Matsushita Hirokazu , Sakurai Yoshinori , Kenmotsu Naoya , Mizuta Ryo , Kondo Natsuko , Takata Takushi , Kitamatsu Mizuki , Igawa Kazuyo , Fujimura Atsushi , Otani Yoshihiro , Shirakawa Makoto , Shigeyasu Kunitoshi , Teraishi Fuminori , Togashi Yosuke , Suzuki Minoru , Fujiwara Toshiyoshi , Michiue Hiroyuki
Published: August 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are effective against many advanced malignancies. However, many patients are nonresponders to immunotherapy, and overcoming this resistance to treatment is important. Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a local chemoradiation therapy with the combination of boron drugs that accumulate selectively in cancer and the neutron irradiation of the cancer site. Here, we report the first boron neutron immunotherapy (B‐NIT), combining BNCT and ICI immunotherapy, which was performed on a radioresistant and immunotherapy‐resistant advanced‐stage B16F10 melanoma mouse model. The BNCT group showed localized tumor suppression, but the anti‐PD‐1 antibody immunotherapy group did not show tumor suppression. Only the B‐NIT group showed strong tumor growth inhibition at both BNCT‐treated and shielded distant sites. Intratumoral CD8+ T‐cell infiltration and serum high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) levels were higher in the B‐NIT group. Analysis of CD8+ T cells in tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) showed that CD62L‐ CD44+ effector memory T cells and CD69+ early‐activated T cells were predominantly increased in the B‐NIT group. Administration of CD8‐depleting mAb to the B‐NIT group completely suppressed the augmented therapeutic effects. This indicated that B‐NIT has a potent immune‐induced abscopal effect, directly destroying tumors with BNCT, inducing antigen‐spreading effects, and protecting normal tissue. B‐NIT, immunotherapy combined with BNCT, is the first treatment to overcome immunotherapy resistance in malignant melanoma. In the future, as its therapeutic efficacy is demonstrated not only in melanoma but also in other immunotherapy‐resistant malignancies, B‐NIT can become a new treatment candidate for advanced‐stage cancers.
A multicenter study on deep learning for glioblastoma auto‐segmentation with prior knowledge in multimodal imaging
Authors: Tian Suqing , Liu Yinglong , Mao Xinhui , Xu Xin , He Shumeng , Jia Lecheng , Zhang Wei , Peng Peng , Wang Junjie
Published: August 2024

A precise radiotherapy plan is crucial to ensure accurate segmentation of glioblastomas (GBMs) for radiation therapy. However, the traditional manual segmentation process is labor‐intensive and heavily reliant on the experience of radiation oncologists. In this retrospective study, a novel auto‐segmentation method is proposed to address these problems. To assess the method's applicability across diverse scenarios, we conducted its development and evaluation using a cohort of 148 eligible patients drawn from four multicenter datasets and retrospective data collection including noncontrast CT, multisequence MRI scans, and corresponding medical records. All patients were diagnosed with histologically confirmed high‐grade glioma (HGG). A deep learning‐based method (PKMI‐Net) for automatically segmenting gross tumor volume (GTV) and clinical target volumes (CTV1 and CTV2) of GBMs was proposed by leveraging prior knowledge from multimodal imaging. The proposed PKMI‐Net demonstrated high accuracy in segmenting, respectively, GTV, CTV1, and CTV2 in an 11‐patient test set, achieving Dice similarity coefficients (DSC) of 0.94, 0.95, and 0.92; 95% Hausdorff distances (HD95) of 2.07, 1.18, and 3.95 mm; average surface distances (ASD) of 0.69, 0.39, and 1.17 mm; and relative volume differences (RVD) of 5.50%, 9.68%, and 3.97%. Moreover, the vast majority of GTV, CTV1, and CTV2 produced by PKMI‐Net are clinically acceptable and require no revision for clinical practice. In our multicenter evaluation, the PKMI‐Net exhibited consistent and robust generalizability across the various datasets, demonstrating its effectiveness in automatically segmenting GBMs. The proposed method using prior knowledge in multimodal imaging can improve the contouring accuracy of GBMs, which holds the potential to improve the quality and efficiency of GBMs' radiotherapy.
Cognitive enhancement through technology: A review of transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) interventions in children and adolescents with specific learning disabilities
Authors: Fathi Azar Elahe , Hejazi‐Shirmard Mahnaz , Mirzaie Hooshang
Published: August 2024

Background

In recent years, the exploration of innovative interventions for addressing problems of children and adolescents with specific learning disabilities (SLD) has garnered significant attention within the realm of neurocognitive research. Transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) has emerged as a promising tool for enhancing cognitive skills in children, offering a non‐invasive and safe method that may particularly benefit those with learning difficulties. We aimed to appraise the extent and the quality of studies about impact of TES on cognitive skills including academic skills in children and adolescents with SLD.

Methods

A literature search was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Articles published between January 2000 and January 2024 were searched in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. The study eligibility criteria were previously established according to the PICO model. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale and Cochrane Collaboration tool (ROB2) were used to assess the methodological quality and the risk of bias of the included studies, respectively.

Results

The initial search yielded 1571 studies among which 30 studies were systematically reviewed. The total number of participants was 224 individuals (intervention: 114; control: 110). Findings showed significant improvements in reading skills such as text reading, high‐frequency word reading speed and efficiency and mathematical skills. Conversely, other cognitive skills such as working memory were not improved in people with dyslexia and dyscalculia.

Discussion

TES interventions can positively affect cognitive skills in children and adolescents with SLD; However, due to the small number of studies, medium methodological quality and high risk of bias, caution should be taken when interpreting the results.
The clinical and genetic spectrum of mitochondrial diseases in China: A multicenter retrospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhao Yang , Zhao Xutong , Ji Kunqian , Wang Junling , Zhao Yuying , Lin Jie , Gang Qiang , Yu Meng , Yuan Yun , Jiang Haishan , Sun Chong , Fang Fang , Yan Chuanzhu , Wang Zhaoxia
Published: August 2024

Mitochondrial diseases (MtDs) present diverse clinical phenotypes, yet large‐scale studies are hindered by their rarity. This retrospective, multicenter study, conducted across five Chinese hospitals' neurology departments from 2009 to 2019, aimed to address this gap. Nationwide, 1351 patients were enrolled, with a median onset age of 14.0 (18.5) years. The predominant phenotype was mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke‐like episodes (MELAS) (45.0%). Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations were prevalent (87.4%), with m.3243A>G being the most common locus (48.7%). Meanwhile, POLG mutations in nuclear DNA (nDNA) accounted for 16.5%. Comparative analysis based on age groups (with a cut‐off at 14 years) revealed the highest prevalence of MELAS, with Leigh syndrome (LS) and chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia (CPEO) being the second most common phenotypes in junior and senior groups, respectively. Notably, the most commonly mutated nuclear genes varied across age groups. In conclusion, MELAS predominated in this Chinese MtD cohort, underscored by m.3243A>G and POLG as principal mtDNA mutations and pathogenic nuclear genes. The phenotypic and genotypic disparities observed among different age cohorts highlight the complex nature of MtDs.
Unraveling multi‐scale neuroimaging biomarkers and molecular foundations for schizophrenia: A combined multivariate pattern analysis and transcriptome‐neuroimaging association study
Authors: Peng Yanmin , Chai Chao , Xue Kaizhong , Tang Jie , Wang Sijia , Su Qian , Liao Chongjian , Zhao Guoshu , Wang Shaoying , Zhang Nannan , Zhang Zhihui , Lei Minghuan , Liu Feng , Liang Meng
Published: August 2024

Aims

Schizophrenia is characterized by alterations in resting‐state spontaneous brain activity; however, it remains uncertain whether variations at diverse spatial scales are capable of effectively distinguishing patients from healthy controls. Additionally, the genetic underpinnings of these alterations remain poorly elucidated. We aimed to address these questions in this study to gain better understanding of brain alterations and their underlying genetic factors in schizophrenia.

Methods

A cohort of 103 individuals with diagnosed schizophrenia and 110 healthy controls underwent resting‐state functional MRI scans. Spontaneous brain activity was assessed using the regional homogeneity (ReHo) metric at four spatial scales: voxel‐level (Scale 1) and regional‐level (Scales 2–4: 272, 53, 17 regions, respectively). For each spatial scale, multivariate pattern analysis was performed to classify schizophrenia patients from healthy controls, and a transcriptome‐neuroimaging association analysis was performed to establish connections between gene expression data and ReHo alterations in schizophrenia.

Results

The ReHo metrics at all spatial scales effectively discriminated schizophrenia from healthy controls. Scale 2 showed the highest classification accuracy at 84.6%, followed by Scale 1 (83.1%) and Scale 3 (78.5%), while Scale 4 exhibited the lowest accuracy (74.2%). Furthermore, the transcriptome‐neuroimaging association analysis showed that there were not only shared but also unique enriched biological processes across the four spatial scales. These related biological processes were mainly linked to immune responses, inflammation, synaptic signaling, ion channels, cellular development, myelination, and transporter activity.

Conclusions

This study highlights the potential of multi‐scale ReHo as a valuable neuroimaging biomarker in the diagnosis of schizophrenia. By elucidating the complex molecular basis underlying the ReHo alterations of this disorder, this study not only enhances our understanding of its pathophysiology, but also pave the way for future advancements in genetic diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia.
Based on Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing to Construct and Validate Nomogram of Long‐Term Prognosis Within 12 Months for NSCLC
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Li Jin , Zhou Jingjie , Gao Min , Wang Bin , Tong Yiman , Cao Yuhan , Chen Wei
Published: August 2024

Objective

Construction nomogram was to effectively predict long‐term prognosis in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Materials and Methods

The nomogram is developed by a retrospective study of 347 patients with NSCLC who underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) before surgery from May 2019 to February 2022. Cross‐validation divided the data into a training cohort and validation cohort. The discrimination and accuracy ability of the nomogram were proofed by concordance index (C‐index), calibration curve, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the area under the curve (AUC), and time‐dependent ROC in validation cohort.

Results

Age, intraoperative blood loss, VO2 peak, and VE/VCO2 slope were included in the model of nomogram. The model demonstrated good discrimination and accuracy with C‐index of 0.770 (95% CI: 0.712–0.822). AUC of 6 (AUC: 0.789, 95% CI: 0.726–0.851) and 12 months (AUC: 0.787, 95% CI: 0.724–0.850) were shown in ROC. Time‐independent ROC maintains a good effect within 12 months.

Conclusion

We developed a nomogram based on CPET. This model has a good ability of discrimination and accuracy. It could help clinicians to make treatment decision in clinical decision.
Dental floss clip traction‐assisted endoscopic ultrasound‐guided hepaticogastrostomy for transluminal intrahepatic bile duct stone fragmentation and removal
Authors: Ma Jia‐Yi , Jin Zhen‐Dong , Wang Kai‐Xuan
Published: August 2024

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Perceptions, attitudes and barriers to effective obesity care among people living with obesity and healthcare professionals in China: The ACTION‐China study
Authors: Ji Linong , Mu Yiming , Chang Cuiqing , Wang Huali , Zhao Di , Liu Dongmei , Shen Zewei , Chen Wei
Published: August 2024

Aims

To identify perceptions, attitudes, behaviours and barriers to effective obesity care among people living with obesity (PLwO) and healthcare professionals (HCPs) across mainland China.

Materials and Methods

ACTION‐China (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05428501) was a cross‐sectional, observational, descriptive, online survey‐based study of 7000 PLwO and 1000 HCPs (conducted between August and November 2022).

Results

The majority of PLwO (76.8% [5374/7000]) and HCPs (94.6% [946/1000]) agreed that obesity is a chronic disease. Only 40.8% of PLwO (2853/7000) had discussed their weight or talked about losing weight with an HCP in the past 5 years. The most frequent reason given by PLwO for not discussing weight management with an HCP was believing it was their responsibility to manage their weight (34.7% [2430/7000]), whereas the most frequent reason HCPs gave for not discussing obesity with their patients with obesity was having more important health issues to discuss (72.1% [721/1000]). A smaller proportion of PLwO (19.1%) than HCPs (53.6%) felt that weight management discussions with an HCP would be very or extremely helpful for the patient, and 30.7% of PLwO experienced negative feelings after their most recent discussion. Overall, 34.8% (2438/7000) of PLwO had been diagnosed with obesity by an HCP, while 30.0% (2101/7000) of PLwO did not recognize that they had obesity.

Conclusions

This large, national survey conducted among PLwO and HCPs highlights key barriers to effective obesity care in China, including underestimation of weight status by PLwO and the need for increased communication between HCPs and PLwO regarding weight management.
Cystic fibrosis‐related diabetes develops from a combination of insulin secretion defects and insulin resistance
Authors: Bolduc Marie‐Ève , Potter Kathryn J. , Olmos Maxime , Bonhoure Anne , Coriati Adèle , Alexandre‐Heymann Laure , Tremblay François , Lavoie Annick , Carricart Maité , Senior Peter A. , Boudreau Valérie , Rabasa‐Lhoret Rémi
Published: August 2024

Aim

The relative contributions of insulin secretory defects and possible additional contribution of insulin resistance for the development of cystic fibrosis (CF)‐related diabetes (CFRD) are poorly understood. We aimed to (a) determine which indices of insulin resistance predict progression to CFRD, and (b) to model the relative contributions of insulin secretory function and insulin resistance to predict the risk of CFRD.

Materials and Methods

Three hundred and three individuals living with CF underwent a 2‐h oral glucose tolerance test with blood sampling every 30 min at 12–24‐month intervals until they developed CFRD or until the end of follow‐up (up to 15 years). Indices of insulin resistance (e.g. Stumvoll) and insulin secretion were calculated from oral glucose tolerance test glucose and insulin measurements. CFRD‐free survival was assessed by survival analysis.

Results

Estimated insulin resistance showed associations with glucose homeostasis and risk of progression to CFRD. The CFRD‐free survival was significantly different between quartiles of insulin resistance (p < 0.0001). When patients were subdivided according to both insulin resistance and insulin secretion (insulinogenic index), CFRD‐free survival was significantly lower in those with combined lowest insulin secretion and highest insulin resistance (Stumvoll) indices (hazard ratio: 11.2; p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference when the same analysis was performed for the nine other indices.

Conclusions

Insulin resistance is correlated with glucose homeostasis and the risk of progression to CFRD. Patients combining low insulin secretion and high insulin resistance had the greatest odds of developing CFRD over a 15‐year period.
Activity‐based funding reform and the performance of public hospitals: The case of Queensland, Australia
Authors: Nguyen Bao Hoang , Grosskopf Shawna , Yong Jongsay , Zelenyuk Valentin
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the impact of activity‐based funding (ABF) on the performance of hospitals by exploiting a natural experiment that happened in the state of Queensland, Australia. To examine the outcome of the reform, the performance of hospitals is measured by the technical efficiency estimated from data envelopment analysis (DEA) models. We try to identify the causal effect of ABF on the technical efficiency of hospitals by incorporating difference‐in‐differences approach in the popular two‐stage DEA framework. We find empirical evidence that ABF improves the technical efficiency of hospitals.
Bait type affects the diversity assessment of cetoniid beetles in the Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Evangelista Juliane , Blassioli‐Moraes Maria Carolina , Laumann Raúl Alberto , Borges Miguel , de Oliveira Charles Martins , Frizzas Marina Regina
Published: August 2024

Cetoniidae (Coleoptera), known as flower and fruit beetles, form a diverse group, feed on nectar, pollen, plant exudates, and are highly attracted to fermented fruits. To evaluate their diversity in natural and agricultural areas, traps baited with fermented fruits are used. The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of various types of fruit used as bait, with or without the addition of sugarcane juice to accelerate fruit fermentation, on the assessment of Cetoniidae diversity in the Brazilian Cerrado. The study was conducted in two conservation units in Brasília (DF, Brazil). Two experiments were conducted, the first aiming to select the most attractive fruits (banana, pineapple, mango, grape, or cagaita), and the second to verify whether there is interference of sugarcane juice in the fruit fermentation process and, consequently, in the attractiveness to Cetoniidae. The chemical profiles of the types of bait were evaluated by identifying and quantifying the main volatile organic compounds released by the fruit traps. Insect collections were conducted weekly using fruit‐baited traps for 1 month, without interruption. We found that the diversity estimate of Cetoniidae was higher for banana‐based baits relative to grape and cagaita fruit, but not relative to pineapple, mango, and sugarcane juice. Additionally, no increase in attractiveness was observed with the addition of sugarcane juice to banana, pineapple, and mango bait. Most compounds in the fruit extracts belong to alcohol, ester, and terpene functional groups. Our results suggest that banana, pineapple, mango, and sugarcane juice, used alone, may be used for Cetoniidae diversity studies, and that banana bait seems to be the most suitable for Cetoniidae collection in the Cerrado, because it enables the collection of a high diversity of species and also of species considered rare.