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Improving the catalytic performance of materials based on cerium oxide (CeO2) for the activation of methane (CH4) can be achieved through the following strategies: mixture of CeO2 with different oxides (e.g., CeO2–La2O3) and the use of particles with different sizes. In this study, we present a theoretical investigation of the initial CH4 dehydrogenation on (La2Ce2O7)n clusters, where n = 2, 4, and 6. Our framework relies on density functional theory calculations combined with the unity bond index–quadratic exponential potential approximation. Our results indicate that chemical species arising from the first dehydrogenation of CH4, that is, CH3 and H, bind through the formation of C–O and H–O bonds with the clusters, respectively. The coordination of the adsorption site and the chemical environment plays a crucial role in the magnitude of the adsorption energy; for example, species adsorb more strongly in the low-coordinated topO sites located close to the La atoms. Thus, it affects the activation energy barrier, which tends to be lower in configurations where the adsorption of the chemical species is stronger. During CH4 dehydrogenation, the CH3 radical can be present in a planar or tetrahedral configuration. Its conformation changes as a function of the charge transference between the molecule and the cluster, which depends on the CH3-cluster distance. Finally, we analyze the effects of the Hubbard effective parameter (Ueff) on adsorption properties, as the magnitude of localization of Ce f-states affects the hybridization of the interaction between the molecule and the clusters and hence the magnitude of the adsorption energies. We obtained a linear decrease in the adsorption energies by increasing the Ueff parameter; however, the activation energy is only slightly affected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A photochemical synthesis of biologically relevant benzyl oxindoles is presented via electron‐donor acceptor (EDA) complex strategy. This exogenous photocatalyst‐free method describes the formation of a new electron donor‐acceptor complex based on potassium carbonate and thianthrenium salts for C(sp2)−C(sp3) bond formation. This transition‐metal free reaction allows a rapid increase in oxindoles molecular complexity chemical space, tolerating different functional groups as well as sophisticated biomolecules. The scalability and sustainability of this method is highlighted by an important waste recovery protocol. Mechanistic investigations support the formation of an EDA complex that induces a radical chain, and the applicability of this method is showcased by straightforward derivatization reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper adds to existing knowledge about flood management in Accra and contributes insights into emergency responses to major flood events in a geospatial context. The study identifies and analyses the specific routes from the facilities of emergency responders to designated flood-prone areas within four sites in the peripheral areas of the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area. Flood hotspots were ascertained from several sources including local knowledge and bluespot maps derived from a 10 m resolution elevation model. GIS-based network analysis was used to determine the fastest routes from emergency responder facilities to flood hotspots, based on OpenStreetMap data. Interviews revealed that the computed routes are unsuitable for emergency services due to narrow passages and prevailing conditions during the floods. It is necessary to incorporate the individual responder’s knowledge gained through familiarization with the local terrain to identify the optimal routes. The study further analysed the accessibility of emergency response services using indicative service area maps that present an account of time-distance from various emergency responders’ bases. Finally, the study recommends the need for better planning of the expanding areas of the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area, in terms of accessibility for emergency responders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep learning has emerged as a promising paradigm to give access to highly accurate predictions of molecular and material properties. A common short-coming shared by current approaches, however, is that neural networks only give point estimates of their predictions and do not come with predictive uncertainties associated with these estimates. Existing uncertainty quantification efforts have primarily leveraged the standard deviation of predictions across an ensemble of independently trained neural networks. This incurs a large computational overhead in both training and prediction, resulting in order-of-magnitude more expensive predictions. Here, we propose a method to estimate the predictive uncertainty based on a single neural network without the need for an ensemble. This allows us to obtain uncertainty estimates with virtually no additional computational overhead over standard training and inference. We demonstrate that the quality of the uncertainty estimates matches those obtained from deep ensembles. We further examine the uncertainty estimates of our methods and deep ensembles across the configuration space of our test system and compare the uncertainties to the potential energy surface. Finally, we study the efficacy of the method in an active learning setting and find the results to match an ensemble-based strategy at order-of-magnitude reduced computational cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change seriously threatens human systems, properties and livelihoods. Global projections suggest a continuous increase in the frequency and severity of weather events, with severe outcomes. Although the trends and impacts are highly variable depending on location, most studies tend to concentrate on either the urban or rural areas, with little focus on peri-urban areas. Yet, in Sub-Saharan Africa, peri-urban areas display unique characteristics: inadequate infrastructure, unplanned development, weak governance, and environmental degradation, all of which exacerbate flood impact and thus need academic attention. This study contributes to filling this gap by assessing the flood vulnerability of roads in peri-urban Accra and its implications for mobility. Based on the fieldwork, the study delineated and analysed potential zones within the research locations. The researchers calculated roads' absolute and relative lengths, using a spatial overlay (intersection) of potentially flooded roads with the total road network within the grid cells of 500 m by 500 m. These measures were adopted and used as exposure measures. The findings revealed that over 80% of roads with lengths between 100 m and 500 m were exposed to floods. Some areas had higher exposure indices, with absolute road lengths ranging from 1.5 km to 3.2 km and relative road lengths between 0.8 and 1.0. There were significant variations in road exposure between and within neighbourhoods. Depending on the depth and duration of the floodwater, residents may be unable to access their homes or carry out their daily activities. In conclusion, this study highlights the differential vulnerability of peri-urban areas to road flooding and recommends targeted provision of flood-resilient infrastructure to promote sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroxytrifluoroethyl and trifluoroacetyl groups are of utmost importance in biologically active compounds, but methods to tether these motifs to organic architectures have been limited. Typically, the preparation of these compounds relied on the use of strong bases or multistep routes. The renaissance of radical chemistry in photocatalytic, transition metal mediated, and hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) processes have allowed the installation of these medicinally relevant fluorinated motifs. This review provides an overview of the methods available for the direct synthesis of hydroxytrifluoroethyl‐ and trifluoroacetyl‐derived compounds governed by single‐electron transfer processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To analyse the nature of medical or technical emergency issues of ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients calling a nurse-provided emergency PD support service of a reference centre that is provided all year in the after-hours. Methods: We retrospectively analysed patients' chief complaint, urgency, resolution of and association to current PD treatment and modality directed to an on-call nurse-provided PD support service from 2015–2021 based on routinely collected health data. Calls were systematically categorized being technical/procedural-, medical-, material-related or type of correspondence. Call urgency was categorized to have "immediate consequence", inquiry was eligible for "processing next working day" or whether there was "no need for further action". Call outcomes were classified according to whether patients were able to initiate, resume or finalize their treatments or whether additional interventions were required. Unexpected adverse events such as patients' acute hospitalization or need for nurses' home visits were evaluated and quantified. Results: In total 753 calls were documented. Most calls were made around 7:30 a.m. (5:00–9:00; median, 25-75th CI) and 6:30 p.m. (5:00–8:15). 645 calls were assigned to continuous ambulatory- (CAPD) or automated PD (APD). Of those, 430 calls (66.7%) had an "immediate consequence". Of those 77% (N = 331) were technical/procedural-, 12.8% (N = 55) medical- and 6.3% (N = 27) material related issues. 4% (N = 17) were categorized as other correspondence. Issues disrupting the course of PD were identified in 413 cases. In 77.5% (N = 320) patients were able to initiate, resume or finalize their treatment after phone consultation. Last-bag exchange was used in 6.1% enabling continued therapy in 83.6%. In 35 cases a nurse visit at patients' home or patients' visit to the practice at the earliest possible date were required, while hospitalization was required in seven medical category cases (5.4% and 1.09% of total assessed calls, respectively). Conclusion: The on-call PD-nurse provides patient support for acute and imminent issues enabling them to successfully initiate, resume or finalize their prescribed treatment. Nurses triage of acute conditions facilitated rapid diagnostics and therapy. Maintaining quality PD homecare, the provision of trained personnel is indispensable. The information gathered in this study may therefore be used as a foundation to tailor educational programs for nephrology nurses and doctors to further develop their competencies in PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Hepatic steatosis is a common finding in liver histopathology and the hallmark of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), whose global prevalence is rising. Aims: To review the histopathology of hepatic steatosis and its mechanisms of development and to identify common and rare disease associations. Methods: We reviewed literature on the basic science of lipid droplet (LD) biology and clinical research on acute and chronic liver diseases associated with hepatic steatosis using the PubMed database. Results: A variety of genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of chronic hepatic steatosis or steatotic liver disease, which typically appears macrovesicular. Microvesicular steatosis is associated with acute mitochondrial dysfunction and liver failure. Fat metabolic processes in hepatocytes whose dysregulation leads to the development of steatosis include secretion of lipoprotein particles, uptake of remnant lipoprotein particles or free fatty acids from blood, de novo lipogenesis, oxidation of fatty acids, lipolysis and lipophagy. Hepatic insulin resistance is a key feature of MASLD. Seipin is a polyfunctional protein that facilitates LD biogenesis. Assembly of hepatitis C virus takes place on LD surfaces. LDs make important, functional contact with the endoplasmic reticulum and other organelles. Conclusions: Diverse liver pathologies are associated with hepatic steatosis, with MASLD being the most important contributor. The biogenesis and dynamics of LDs in hepatocytes are complex and warrant further investigation. Organellar interfaces permit co‐regulation of lipid metabolism to match generation of potentially toxic lipid species with their LD depot storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method for the radiosynthesis of 18F-labelled aryl trifluoromethyl ketones starting from widely available Weinreb amides using [18F]fluoroform is presented. The method uses potassium hexamethyldisilazane as base and delivers products in high molar activity (up to 24 GBq μmol−1) and excellent radiochemical conversions. The applicability for PET tracer synthesis is demonstrated by the radiosynthesis of ten (hetero)aryl trifluoromethylketones, bearing electron-withdrawing and -donating substituents including a derivative of bioactive probenecid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainable, integrated, and representative management of water is one of the main challenges faced by governments worldwide, especially where water resources are not abundant, such as the Ebro River basin in Spain. The Spanish state has granted powers in matters related to water that has adhered river basins. The main objective of this study is to examine the specific case of water management in Catalonia, a region within the Ebro basin, through literature review and interviews conducted with key informants in water organizations operating in Catalonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we discuss several key issues in the recent microplastic risk assessment conducted by Hataley et al. (2023. Can. J. Fish. Aquat. Scie 80 (10): 1669-1678) for the Great Lakes ecosystem. First, we note that the risk characterizations are incorrect due to errors in parameterizations of the calculations necessary to align exposure and effects data, as well as the corrections for bioaccessibility cutoffs. Second, the lack of quantification of uncertainty in the risk assessment raises concerns. Previous assessments that employed similar methods addressed uncertainties arising from the calculations, revealing that the probabilistic uncertainty inherent in risk characterization can span significant magnitudes. Third, we highlight the problematic use of species sensitivity distributions (SSDs) designed for marine systems in a freshwater context. We emphasize the importance of utilizing SSDs that incorporate relevant freshwater species data, and identify recent studies that provide such data for use in future risk assessments. Based on a previously published assessment, we suggest initiating measures to reduce the release of plastic debris into the watershed and advise research, monitoring, and mitigative strategies to address potential threats to water quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Private insurers are declining to issue or renew homeowner policies in California, Colorado, Florida, and Louisiana following massive payouts due to hurricane and wildfire damage in recent years. As climate change worsens, more private insurers will withdraw from property insurance markets. Governments, particularly at the state level, will likely expand their insurance programs to fill the gap. Just as the federal government now underwrites most flood insurance policies, public insurers will come to dominate the fire and wind insurance markets. Property insurance can generate price signals reflecting the risks of living in climate-vulnerable areas. However, public insurance programs often prioritize insurance availability and affordability while muting or eliminating accurate price signals. Because premiums collected by public insurance programs usually do not cover the payouts that follow a catastrophic event, expanding these programs could prove financially disastrous. Unfortunately, by offering underpriced coverage, such programs have encouraged development in climate-vulnerable areas, such as floodplains and the wildland-urban interface. Managed retreat policies aim to move people and communities out of climate-vulnerable areas. Typically involving public buyouts of private property, managed retreat can mitigate the damage associated with climate change, counter inefficient building practices, and facilitate disaster recovery. Yet managed retreat is logistically and politically challenging, and buyout programs thus far have had limited impact. Linking public insurance with buyouts can promote access to insurance coverage, break the disaster-rebuild cycle, and jump-start the relocation of people and communities from climate-vulnerable areas. This Article proposes that public insurance coverage in climate-vulnerable areas be made contingent on insureds agreeing to buyouts if property damage exceeds a predetermined threshold amount. If a covered event causes property damage above the threshold, the government will choose between paying on the insurance policy or purchasing the property. The government's choice would depend on funding availability, the value of the property as open space, the presence of other buyout properties nearby, the history of repetitive loss, and other relevant factors. The proposed mechanism, which can be incorporated into federal or state-backed insurance programs, would make the most of disaster-caused damage by compelling retreat after such damage has occurred. It would also sidestep some of the difficulties that have hampered voluntary buyout programs. Part I of this Article discusses the growing reluctance of private insurers to offer policies in climate-vulnerable areas, the accompanying rise of state-backed insurance, and ongoing managed retreat efforts. Part II considers the objectives of public insurance programs. Part III shows how governments might try to advance these objectives as climate change worsens. In the context of a dramatically expanded government role as an insurer of last resort, the proposal can facilitate managed retreat without compromising these objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we study essential hereditary undecidability. Theories with this property are a convenient tool to prove undecidability of other theories. The paper develops the basic facts concerning essentially hereditary undecidability and provides salient examples, like a construction of essentially hereditarily undecidable theories due to Hanf and an example of a rather natural essentially hereditarily undecidable theory strictly below R. We discuss the (non-)interaction of essential hereditary undecidability with recursive boolean isomorphism. We develop a reduction relation essential tolerance, or, in the converse direction, lax interpretability that interacts in a good way with essential hereditary undecidability. We introduce the class of Σ 1 0 -friendly theories and show that Σ 1 0 -friendliness is sufficient but not necessary for essential hereditary undecidability. Finally, we adapt an argument due to Pakhomov, Murwanashyaka and Visser to show that there is no interpretability minimal essentially hereditarily undecidable theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positron emission tomography (PET) is becoming increasingly important in nuclear medicine and drug discovery. To date, the development of many potential PET tracers is hampered by the lack of suitable synthetic pathways for their preparation. This is particularly true for the highly desired radiolabeling of compounds bearing [18F]CF3‐groups. For instance, S(O)nCF3‐groups (n=0, 1, 2) serve as structural motif in a range of biologically active compounds, but their radiosynthesis remains largely unprecedented (for n=1, 2). Herein, we describe general methods for the radiosynthesis of 18F‐labeled aryl trifluoromethyl sulfones, ‐sulfoxides, and ‐sulfides. All three methods are operationally straightforward, start from widely available precursors, i.e., sulfonyl fluorides and thiophenols, and make use of the recently established [18F]Ruppert‐Prakash reagent. Further, the syntheses display good functional group tolerance as demonstrated by the 18F‐labeling of more than 40 compounds. The applicability of the new method is demonstrated by the radiolabeling of three bioactive molecules, optionally to be used as PET tracers. In a broader context, this work presents a substantial expansion of the chemical space of radiofluorinated structural motifs to be used for the development of new PET tracers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The feasibility to discriminate potentially asbestos‐containing components from asbestos‐free concrete based on camera images using the example of wall demolition waste is investigated. For this, three types of asbestos substitute materials and two types of concrete are crushed and photographed. The classification of the fragment images is carried out with a) morphological and texture features and b) with features automatically extracted by the pretrained MobileNetV3 network. Feret diameters, circularity, and others served as morphological descriptors. The texture was described by measures of grey‐level intensity, as obtained from the grey‐level co‐occurrence matrix. Support vector machines are found to achieve classification accuracies above 99 % based on the automatically extracted features. The presented identification approach is promising to automate the treatment process of asbestos‐containing materials from construction and demolition waste, which is effortful and requires expert knowledge to this day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) functional rating scale‐revised (ALSFRS‐R) has become the most widely utilized measure of disease severity in patients with ALS, with change in ALSFRS‐R from baseline being a trusted primary outcome measure in ALS clinical trials. This is despite the scale having several established limitations, and although alternative scales have been proposed, it is unlikely that these will displace ALSFRS‐R in the foreseeable future. Here, we discuss the merits of delta FS (ΔFS), the slope or rate of ALSFRS‐R decline over time, as a relevant tool for innovative ALS study design, with an as yet untapped potential for optimization of drug effectiveness and patient management. In our view, categorization of the ALS population via the clinical determinant of post‐onset ΔFS is an important study design consideration. It serves not only as a critical stratification factor and basis for patient enrichment but also as a tool to explore differences in treatment response across the overall population; thereby, facilitating identification of responder subgroups. Moreover, because post‐onset ΔFS is derived from information routinely collected as part of standard patient care and monitoring, it provides a suitable patient selection tool for treating physicians. Overall, post‐onset ΔFS is a very attractive enrichment tool that is, can and should be regularly incorporated into ALS trial design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background and Objective: The aim was assessing a short training for healthcare providers on patient‐focused counselling to treat childhood obesity in primary care, along with dietitian‐led workshops and educational materials. Methods: Randomized clustered trial conducted with paediatrician‐nurse pairs (Basic Care Units [BCU]) in primary care centres from Tarragona (Spain). BCUs were randomized to intervention (MI) (motivational interview, dietitian‐led education, and educational materials) or control group (SC, standard care). Participants were 8–14‐year‐old children with obesity, undergoing 1–11 monthly treatment visits during 1 year at primary care centres. The primary outcome was BMI z‐score reduction. Results: The study included 44 clusters (23 MI). Out of 303 allocated children, 201 (n = 106 MI) completed baseline, final visits, and at least one treatment visit and were included in the analysis. BMI z‐score reduction was −0.27 (±0.31) in SC, versus −0.36 (±0.35) in MI (p = 0.036). Mixed models with centres as random effects showed greater reductions in BMI in MI than SC; differences were B = −0.11 (95% CI: −0.20, −0.01, p = 0.025) for BMI z‐score, and B = −2.06 (95% CI: −3.89, −0.23, p = 0.028) for BMI %. No severe adverse events related to the study were notified. Conclusion: Training primary care professionals on motivational interviewing supported by dietitians and educational materials, enhanced the efficacy of childhood obesity therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xanthelasma palpebrarum (XP) is the predominant form of cutaneous xanthoma, as it accounts for greater than 95% of cases. It is characterized by the presence of foam cell clusters containing a large amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which are located in the connective tissue of skin, tendons, and fascia. XP lesions commonly present as distinctive yellow-orange macules, papules, or nodules, and are primarily on the upper eyelids as well as the inner canthus. Women are affected twice as often as men, with lesions typically emerging between the ages of 35 and 55. The pathophysiology of XP involves abnormal lipid metabolism and is often associated with hyperlipidemic states like Type II and IV hyperlipidemia, hypothyroidism, weight gain, and fatty diet. Despite the availability of various treatment methods, current XP management lacks standardization, particularly due to limited comparative research. To address this gap, we conducted an extensive literature review of 45 studies published between 2012 to 2023, which provides an updated overview of current XP treatment modalities. This comprehensive analysis will inform researchers and clinicians on the evolving landscape of XP management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated bilingualism effects on the production of focus in 5- to 9-year-old Cantonese–English bilingual autistic children's L1 Cantonese, compared to their monolingual autistic peers as well as monolingual and bilingual typically developing children matched in nonverbal IQ, working memory, receptive vocabulary and maternal education. The results from an elicitation task showed that monolingual autistic children had significantly lower accuracy than typically developing children in producing focus in subject and object positions. Bilingual autistic children in general performed similarly to monolingual autistic children but outperformed their monolingual autistic peers in the production of object focus with a significantly higher accuracy. The total amount of English exposure did not relate to the accuracy of focus production in autistic and typically developing children. Our results also revealed autistic children's tendency to make use of less prosodic means to produce focus. The overall findings indicate that bilingual exposure has no detrimental effect on the language skills of autistic children but might enhance the production of focus in bilingual autistic children's L1 Cantonese. It is commonly believed among professionals and parents that exposure to two languages imposes an additional burden on children with autism spectrum disorder. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence to support or reject this belief. With the prevalence of autism and an increasing number of children growing up bilingual, it is urgent to understand how bilingual exposure interacts with autism. Bilingual autistic children from Hong Kong, with Cantonese as their first language and English as their second language, took part in the study. We used a production game to test how bilingual autistic children use different levels of linguistic knowledge to produce contrastive information in real conversations, compared to their monolingual autistic peers and typically developing children matched in language abilities, nonverbal IQ, working memory and maternal education. We found that bilingual autistic children performed as good as typically developing children in general, and they even performed better than monolingual autistic children. Our findings suggest a bilingual advantage in autistic children in conveying constative information in sentences. We thus encourage parents to engage their children in rich bilingual environments. Clinicians, educators and other professionals may also consider adding bilingual aspects in training programmes to support families raising bilingual autistic children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This commentary reviews total aquatic food supply from aquaculture and capture fisheries from 2010 to 2020 at global, regional, and national levels within main producing countries; aquatic animal foods include fish, crustaceans, molluscs, and other invertebrate animals destined for direct human consumption or as fish and seafood by the FAO. Whilst total combined aquatic animal food supply from aquaculture and capture fisheries has increased on a global basis from 18.59 to 20.49 kg/capita over the past decade, the global supply has not kept up with population growth over the same period. Of particular concern was the decrease in fish and seafood food supply within the African region, decreasing from 10.40 to 9.58 kg/capita, whilst population growth increased by 3.12%/year over the same period. Moreover, the Asian region was the only region where per capita fish and seafood food supply exceeded population growth; the bulk of fish and seafood supply being sourced from increased aquaculture production of primarily freshwater fish species, compared with other regions where marine wild fisheries still dominated fish and seafood supply. Fish and seafood supply in leading aquaculture and capture fisheries producing countries between 2010 and 2020, including China, Indonesia, India, Viet Nam, Bangladesh, South Korea, Japan, and USA are presented and demonstrate growth in per capita fish and seafood supply being lower than human population growth in Ecuador, Philippines, Turkey, Chile, Norway, Brazil, Myanmar, the South Korea, and Japan. If aquatic food supplies from aquaculture and inland/marine capture fisheries are to make an increasing global contribution to healthy diets, then the increased production and market availability of these products needs to be promoted by governments and actively encouraged and stimulated, particularly within the African continent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a 60-day daily e-diary tool, 117 women undergraduate students reported sexual harassment on a Canadian university campus (4,283 diary surveys, collectively). Participants reported 181 incidents of both ambient sexual harassment (witnessing 40 incidents, hearing 106 unwelcomed sexual jokes/remarks) and targeted personal experiences of non-physical sexual harassment (35 incidents). Qualitative data document students' descriptions of these encounters and contextualize how these are part of everyday student life. Findings show that students experience this harassment almost daily—in an ongoing, persistent, and normalized way—and that university can be a hostile environment where the possibility of daily unwanted sexual experiences is a lived, endemic reality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the use of the horse as an image of the body and of passion in the Alexandrian theological tradition. It started with Philo, who regarded the horse as a symbol of passion. Clement and Origen adopted the Philonic interpretation. Origen, who exploited the image most, saw the horse as representing the body, bodily things, irrational passions and desires of the flesh. Finally, following in Origen's footsteps, Didymus also interpreted the horse as a figure of the body. In addition, both Origen and Didymus distinguished between the image of the horseman and that of the rider, following the example of a predecessor, whom they did not mention by name: Philo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For aging‐related research, there is a pressing need to attend to the dissemination and implementation of evidence‐based interventions. Some aging‐related interventions with established effectiveness may be poorly disseminated and implemented due to behavioral, organizational, payment, or other constraints. To provide insight into the beginning to end process of translation and implementation, we present a case history of the three‐decade progression of Hospital at Home (HaH) now nearing national dissemination. We summarize research at various phases with particular attention to implementation considerations. Reviewing over three decades of HaH‐related research dating from initial discovery to translation and implementation, we found that the content and importance of different constructs (e.g., inner practice vs. outer environmental setting) and the choice of implementation strategies differed depending on implementation context (testing of effectiveness, scaling, or sustainability). Early effectiveness studies mostly examined implementation issues related to the intervention, the practice setting, and the individuals involved. However, explicit and early consideration of scale and sustainment was not the primary focus. For example, HaH program intake is primarily through hospital emergency departments (ED). Initial efforts would have benefited from incorporating strategies (e.g., incorporating ED leadership into program leadership) to address night and weekend admissions. Many regulatory barriers did not surface during initial considerations. Considering implementation issues late may contribute to delay in bringing discoveries to population impact. The experience with HaH suggests that scale and sustainability bear earlier consideration because barriers and facilitators to implementation are likely to be different in content and importance at different phases of implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasma‐derived medicinal products (PDMPs) are recognized internationally as essential medicines required to treat various acute and chronic conditions including congenital deficiencies of plasma proteins in haemophilia and primary immune deficiency. Global provision of these medicines is dominated by a small number of commercial companies, influencing the price and availability of the products. Achieving a level of strategic independence from this dominance is now seen as a public health priority in many countries. During the Regional Congress of the International Society for Blood Transfusion (ISBT) in Cape Town, South Africa, in November 2023, around 50 delegates from 24 countries participated in a workshop (WS) organized jointly by the International Plasma and Fractionation Association (IPFA) and the ISBT Working Party on Global Blood Safety on pathways towards provision of PDMPs from domestic plasma independent of commercial purchase in the open market. The WS was structured around three themes, each addressed by a separate group: Quality/safety requirements for plasma for fractionation (PfF) Stepwise access for safe plasma proteins Approaching contract fractionation A synthesis of conclusions from these groups included the following: The need to acquire support from government authorities for a national plasma policy, recognizing the difficulties posed by unstable political and bureaucratic environments. The value of embedding plasma and PDMPs within a patient blood management (PBM) paradigm to promote optimal clinical use of PDMPs. Training of blood/plasma collection personnel in the relevant principles of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), coupled with regulatory oversight of plasma product production in the engaged jurisdictions. Appreciation that limited access to contract fractionation may necessitate a stepwise approach, which may include small‐scale preparation of versions of essential plasma proteins as an intermediate phase towards the manufacture of industrial‐scale PDMPs from domestic plasma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the germination requirements of 12 plant species native to the Argyle region of the east Kimberley, a biodiverse monsoonal tropical region characterized by high temperatures, high evaporation, and episodic seasonal rainfall. The research involved quality assessment of mature seeds, followed by dormancy alleviation and laboratory‐based germination to determine the responses of seeds to a range of temperatures (5–40°C) in terms of germination speed (T10), mean germination time, and maximum germination proportion. Data were then modeled to calculate the optimal temperature to support germination for each species. The results showed that germination rapidly commences in response to a wide range of temperatures typical of the wet season (November–February) in the east Kimberley, though germination for most species was still high (>50%) after exposure to temperatures as low as 15°C. Mean optimal temperature for germination across all species was 25.8 ± 1.5°C, with minimal variation between most species, the exception being Dodonaea physocarpa, which preferred cooler temperatures (Topt = 14.0°C). The speed of germination was also rapid (T10 = 1–3 days) across all species at the optimal germination temperature. The findings suggest that temperature is not a limiting factor for germination in this region and that the onset and intensity of the wet season are the most significant factors determining successful germination, emergence, and seedling establishment. The study underscores the importance of species‐specific understanding of environmental temperatures required for seed germination in seed‐based restoration efforts and informs the planning of direct seeding works, thus enhancing restoration outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ras is a small GTPase that is central to important functional decisions in diverse cell types. An important aspect of Ras signaling is its ability to exhibit bimodal or switch-like activity. We describe the total reconstitution of a receptor-mediated Ras activation-deactivation reaction catalyzed by SOS and p120-RasGAP on supported lipid membrane microarrays. The results reveal a bimodal Ras activation response, which is not a result of deterministic bistability but is rather driven by the distinct processivity of the Ras activator, SOS. Furthermore, the bimodal response is controlled by the condensation state of the scaffold protein, LAT, to which SOS is recruited. Processivity-driven bimodality leads to stochastic bursts of Ras activation even under strongly deactivating conditions. This behavior contrasts deterministic bistability and may be more resistant to pharmacological inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron delocalization and aromaticity was comparatively evaluated in recently synthesized figure‐eight molecules made of two condensed U‐shaped polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon moieties connected either by two single bonds or by two para‐phenylene groups. The selected examples include molecules that incorporate eight‐membered and sixteen‐membered rings, as well as a doubly [5]helicene‐bridged (1,4)cyclophane. We probe whether some electron delocalization could occur through the stereogenic single bonds in these molecules: Is aromaticity purely (semi‐)local, or possibly also global in these molecules? It was concluded that the situation can go from a purely (semi‐)local character when the dihedral angle at the connecting single bonds is large, such as in biphenyl, to a predominantly (semi‐)local character with a minor global contribution when the dihedral angle is small, such as in the para‐phenylene connectors of the [5] helicene‐bridged cyclophane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is defined as organ protrusion from the abdominal to the thoracic cavity. The Hadlock formula is the most commonly used tool for calculating estimated fetal weight (EFW). The anatomical nature of CDH usually leads to underestimation of the abdominal circumference, resulting in underestimation of fetal weight. Accurate weight estimation is essential before birth for counselling, preparation before surgery and ECMO. The research is made to compare the accuracy of Hadlock's formula and Faschingbauer's formula for fetal weight estimation in CDH fetuses population. Methods: In our study, we investigated differences between EFW and actual birthweight in 42 fetuses with CDH as compared to 80 healthy matched controls. EFW was calculated using the Hadlock formula and a recently introduced formula described by Faschingbauer et al., which was tailored for fetuses with CDH. Additionally, both of the formulas were adjusted for the interval between the ultrasound and delivery for both of the groups. Results: The majority of hernias were left-sided (92.8% vs. 7.2%). EFW adjusted for the interval between the ultrasound and delivery had the highest correlation with the actual birthweight in both, study group and controls. We compared the results for both tools and found the Hadlock formula to predict birthweight in CDH children with a 7.8 ± 5.5% error as compared to 7.9 ± 6.5% error for the Faschingbauer's formula. Conclusions: The Hadlock formula adjusted for the interval between the ultrasound and delivery is a more precise method of calculating EFW in fetuses with CDH. Routine biometry scan using Hadlock's formula remains reliable for predicting birthweight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Chronic use of totally implantable venous access devices (TIVADs) in pediatric oncology patients can be challenging in terms of pain and anxiety. Our aim is to evaluate the usefulness of virtual reality (VR) goggles to reduce anxiety and pain in children and to facilitate the work of the nursing team. We conducted a clinical trial with two groups randomized to use the goggles or not, and for the intervention group we used a relaxation video in the Raja Ampat environment (Ecosphere app by Phoria®) for Oculus Quest 2 goggles (Meta Platforms®, Menlo Park, CA, USA). Our results highlighted that the use of VR goggles could be a simple addition to clinical practice to reduce anxiety and pain in oncology children using TIVADs, and could also facilitate the work of the nursing team, helping to achieve a more efficient use of time. Introduction: Pediatric oncology patients use totally implantable venous access devices (TIVADs) to enable central venous access. Anxiety, pain and/or discomfort are common despite anesthesia. Virtual reality (VR) is a non-pharmacological approach that may reduce pain and anxiety in these patients. We aimed to assess the use of VR for reducing anxiety/pain in patients with TIVADs while facilitating the task of healthcare providers when accessing a TIVAD. Methods: patients 4–18 years old with a TIVAD were prospectively randomized to an intervention group (IG) or a control group (CG). In the IG, VR goggles (Oculus Quest 2, Meta Platforms®, Menlo Park, CA, USA) were used displaying a relaxing video in the Raja Ampat environment (Ecosphere app from Phoria®) while the TIVAD was accessed. The CG was managed as per standard of care. Satisfaction and pain were measured by FPS-R and STAIC scales, respectively. Results: this is the report of a prospective, randomized (60 per group)—unblinded—, single institution study of 120 pediatric oncology patients enrolled from January to April 2022. Median ages for IG and CG were 9.22 and 10.52 years, respectively. Satisfaction was higher in the IG (4.80) compared to the CG (3.92), p ≤ 0.0001. Regarding pain, mean FPS-R scores were 1.79 for the CG and 0.83 for the IG. Significantly different scores were found in the 12 to 18 years group, p ≤ 0.05. The healthcare professionals index of satisfaction was high (4.50 mean Likert score) for the IG compared to accessing the TIVAD without VR (3.73 mean Likert score). Conclusion: The use of VR helped reduce pain and/or discomfort in pediatric oncology patients, mainly in the older age group as they can better interact with VR. Healthcare providers were satisfied with the help of VR for TIVAD management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the implementation of sliding mode control algorithms for the case of power grid current regulation in a T-type bidirectional inverter system connected via an LCL filter to the power grid is proposed and presented. A mathematical model of such a system has been proposed, which was then implemented in a simulation environment. The method of designing sliding controllers using the Lyapunov method to conduct a stability proof is presented. The article includes a comparative analysis of two sliding mode control algorithms: the classic one, which includes equivalent control, discontinuous part, and proportional reaching law, and the hybrid one, in which the discontinuous part and reaching law were modified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a mathematical model of fluid flows in a convective thermal system is developed, and a five-dimensional dynamical system is developed for the investigation of the convective fluid dynamics. The analytical solutions of periodic motions to chaos of the convective fluid flows are developed for steady-state vortex flows, and the corresponding stability and bifurcations of periodic motions in the five-dimensional dynamical system are studied. The harmonic frequency-amplitude characteristics for periodic flows are obtained, which provide energy distribution in the parameter space. Analytical homoclinic orbits for the convective fluid flow systems are developed for the asymptotic convection through the infinite-many homoclinic orbits in the five-dimensional dynamical system. The dynamics of fluid flows in the convective thermal systems are revealed, and one can use such methodology to predict atmospheric and oceanic phenomena through thermal convections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Multiagent chemoimmunotherapy remains the standard of care treatment for Burkitt lymphoma leading to a cure in the majority of cases. However, frontline treatment regimens are associated with a significant risk of treatment related toxicity especially in elderly and immunocompromised patients. Additionally, prognosis remains dismal in refractory/relapsed Burkitt lymphoma. Thus, novel therapies are required to not only improve outcomes in relapsed/refractory Burkitt lymphoma but also minimize frontline treatment related toxicities. Recurrent genomic changes and signalling pathway alterations that have been implicated in the Burkitt lymphomagenesis include cell cycle dysregulation, cell proliferation, inhibition of apoptosis, epigenetic dysregulation and tonic B‐cell receptor‐phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (BCR‐PI3K) signalling. Here, we will discuss novel targeted therapy approaches using small molecule inhibitors that could pave the way to the future treatment landscape based on the understanding of recurrent genomic changes and signalling pathway alterations in the lymphomagenesis of adult Burkitt lymphoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There has been a substantial increase in the use of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) to treat morbid obesity despite observational evidence demonstrating the superiority of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) for reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. The main aim was to ascertain whether high LDL cholesterol levels should be considered when selecting the most appropriate surgical procedure for each patient (RYGB or SG). Methods: In this single-center, randomized clinical trial using intention-to-treat analysis, 38 patients with severe obesity and elevated levels of LDL cholesterol were randomly assigned to undergo RYGB or SG. The primary outcome was LDL cholesterol remission at 12 months, defined as LDL cholesterol < 3.36 nmol/l without lipid-lowering medications. Secondary outcomes included changes in weight, other comorbidities, qualitative lipoprotein traits, cholesterol esters, glycoproteins, cholesterol absorption and synthesis metabolites and complications. Results: Intention-to-treat analysis revealed that LDL cholesterol remission occurred in 66.6% of RYGB patients compared to 27.8% of SG patients (p = 0.019). Among patients completing follow-up, RYGB demonstrated superior remission (80.0% vs. 29.4%, p = 0.005). Exclusive benefits of RYGB included a reduction in large, medium, and small LDL particles. Cholesterol absorption markers showed differential behavior after both techniques: campesterol (Δ −15.2 µg/mg, 95% CI −30.2 to −0.1) decreased after RYGB, and sitosterol (Δ 21.1 µg/mg, 95% CI 0.9 to 41.2), cholestanol (Δ 30.6 µg/mg, 95% CI 14.8 to 57.9) and campesterol (Δ 18.4 µg/mg, 95% CI 4.4 to 32.3) increased after SG. No differences in weight loss, cholesterol esters, glycoproteins, cholesterol synthesis metabolites or postoperative complications were observed between techniques. Conclusion: In conclusion, RYGB is superior to SG in terms of short-term of high LDL cholesterol remission. Furthermore, RYGB also led to a greater improvement in lipoprotein parameters that confer an atherogenic profile. Therefore, the presence of elevated levels of LDL cholesterol should be considered when determining the optimal bariatric surgery procedure for each patient. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov number, NCT03975478). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is much excitement about the opportunity to harness the power of large language models (LLMs) when building problem-solving assistants. However, the standard methodology of evaluating LLMs relies on static pairs of inputs and outputs; this is insufficient for making an informed decision about which LLMs are best to use in an interactive setting, and how that varies by setting. Static assessment therefore limits how we understand language model capabilities. We introduce CheckMate, an adaptable prototype platform for humans to interact with and evaluate LLMs. We conduct a study with CheckMate to evaluate three language models (InstructGPT, ChatGPT, and GPT-4) as assistants in proving undergraduate-level mathematics, with a mixed cohort of participants from undergraduate students to professors of mathematics. We release the resulting interaction and rating dataset, MathConverse. By analyzing MathConverse, we derive a taxonomy of human query behaviors and uncover that despite a generally positive correlation, there are notable instances of divergence between correctness and perceived helpfulness inLLMgenerations, among other findings. Further, we garner a more granular understanding of GPT-4 mathematical problemsolving through a series of case studies, contributed by experienced mathematicians. We conclude with actionable takeaways for ML practitioners and mathematicians: models that communicate uncertainty, respond well to user corrections, and can provide a concise rationale for their recommendations, may constitute better assistants. Humans should inspect LLM output carefully given their current shortcomings and potential for surprising fallibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Methods and Results Conclusions Recommendations for surveillance after colonoscopy are based on risk factors for metachronous advanced colorectal neoplasia (AN) and colorectal cancer (CRC). The value of these risk factors remains unclear in populations enriched by individuals with a positive faecal immunochemical test and were investigated in a modern setting.This population‐based cohort study included all individuals in the Netherlands of ≥55 years old with a first adenoma diagnosis in 2015. A total of 22,471 patients were included. Data were retrieved from the Dutch Nationwide Pathology Databank (Palga). Primary outcomes were metachronous AN and CRC. Patient and polyp characteristics were evaluated by multivariable Cox regression analyses. During follow‐up, 2416 (10.8%) patients were diagnosed with AN, of which 557 (2.5% from the total population) were CRC. Adenomas with high‐grade dysplasia (hazard ratio [HR] 1.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.40–1.83), villous histology (HR 1.91, 95% CI 1.59–2.28), size ≥10 mm (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.02–1.23), proximal location (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.02–1.23), two or more adenomas (HR 1.28, 95% CI 1.16–1.41), and serrated polyps ≥10 mm (HR 1.67, 95% CI 1.42–1.97) were independent risk factors for metachronous AN. In contrast, only adenomas with high‐grade dysplasia (HR 2.49, 95% CI 1.92–3.24) were an independent risk factor for metachronous CRC.Risk factors for metachronous AN and CRC were identified for populations with access to a faecal immunochemical test (FIT)‐based screening programme. If only risk factors for metachronous CRC are considered, a reduction in criteria for surveillance seems reasonable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inheritance of epigenetic information is critical for maintaining cell identity. The transfer of parental histone H3-H4 tetramers, the primary carrier of epigenetic modifications on histone proteins, represents a crucial yet poorly understood step in the inheritance of epigenetic information. Here, we show the lagging strand DNA polymerase, Pol δ, interacts directly with H3-H4 and that the interaction between Pol δ and the sliding clamp PCNA regulates parental histone transfer to lagging strands, most likely independent of their roles in DNA synthesis. When combined, mutations at Pol δ and Mcm² that compromise parental histone transfer result in a greater reduction in nucleosome occupancy at nascent chromatin than mutations in either alone. Last, PCNA contributes to nucleosome positioning on nascent chromatin. On the basis of these results, we suggest that the PCNA-Pol δ complex couples lagging strand DNA synthesis to parental H3-H4 transfer, facilitating epigenetic inheritance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current density–voltage characteristic (J–V) is a critical tool for understanding the behavior of solar cells. This study presents an overview of the key aspects of J–V analysis and introduces a user‐friendly flowchart that facilitates the swift identification of the most probable limiting process in a solar cell, based mainly on the outcomes of light‐intensity‐dependent J–V measurements. The flowchart is developed through extensive drift‐diffusion simulations and a rigorous review of the literature, with a specific focus on perovskite and organic solar cells. Moreover, the flowchart proposes supplementary experiments that can be conducted to obtain a more precise prediction of the primary performance losses. It therefore serves as an optimal starting point to analyse performance losses of solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The prevalence of syphilis in Zambia remains high and is a critical public health concern. The Zambian Ministry of Health recommends universal screening and same-day treatment for syphilis in pregnancy, yet the syphilis screening rate is low, and treatment is poorly documented. The goal of this study was to document syphilis treatment rates and associated factors among pregnant women in care in Zambia. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included pregnant women diagnosed with syphilis according to rapid plasma reagin (RPR) screening during routine antenatal care (ANC) in Lusaka, Zambia in 2018–2019. The main outcome of interest was lack of documented BPG treatment during pregnancy. Additional information about pregnancy and neonatal outcomes, partner referral for therapy, and facility level stockout data were included. Patient characteristics were compared by treatment status using Pearson Chi-Square Test and logistic regression models were created to estimate the association between individual level-factors, facility type, and lack of BPG treatment. A Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test was used to evaluate facility-level data with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Among 1,231 pregnant women who screened positive for syphilis at clinic, 643 (52%) lacked documented antibiotic treatment at the facility. BPG was the only antibiotic used to treat syphilis in the cohort and 8% of sex partners had evidence of referral for therapy. Preterm delivery rates were higher in women without documented BPG (43% vs 32%; p = 0.003). In adjusted models, only calendar year and hospital facility type were associated with lack of treatment. At the facility level, annual syphilis screening rates ranged from 37–65% and most (7/10) clinics reported at least one stockout of BPG. Conclusion: Treatment rates for syphilis in pregnancy in Zambia were low and BPG medication stockouts at the facility level were common. A consistent supply of BPG at all ANC facilities is needed to facilitate timely treatment and improve birth outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent complexity of the university system, with diverse academic trajectories and varying socio‐demographic characteristics of students, has led to increased access for historically underrepresented students. This has resulted in a rising number of adult learners, students with external responsibilities and individuals returning to education. However, despite this enhanced access, it remains unclear whether it has improved graduation. This uncertainty stems from the fact that students' social circumstances and external responsibilities differ significantly based on when they enter university. From a life course perspective, the aim of this paper is to explore the interactive effects of age at university entrance and employment status on the probability of graduating of an entire cohort of new students who entered the Catalan Higher Education System in 2012 (N = 29,463). The results show an interaction effect between age and employment status on the probability of graduation where working decreases the probability of graduation among students younger than 42 years old. Conversely, the negative impact of employment on university graduation diminishes among students entering university at an older age. This underscores the importance of adopting a life course perspective to comprehend students' educational experiences and outcomes within higher education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This combined experimental and theoretical study illustrates the profound consequences of non‐planarity on the electronic properties of polycyclic arenes. Three isomeric [10]fibonacene tetraesters were synthesized through a robust and regiocontrolled Perkin/Mallory approach: a nearly planar [10]phenacene derivative, a moderately twisted [10]semicircle derivative, and a 3D non‐planar [10]helicene derivative. The photophysical properties of the 3D [10]helicene isomer were found to be dramatically different from the comparable ones of the [10]phenacene and [10]semicircle isomers. The aromatic properties of the [10]phenacene and [10]semicircle isomers conform well with their predictive Kekulé and Clar analyses, but the [10]helicene isomer deviates from these general topological rules, which appears to be a general phenomenon for [n]fibonacenes with n≥9. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research shows that relationship marketing and customer loyalty are significantly correlated without considering the time or intensity dimension of the relationship. So, this study investigates whether relationship duration, strength, and intensity moderate the association between relationship marketing and customer loyalty in an emerging market. We adopt a quantitative research approach and a cross-sectional survey design to collect the data from 500 customers in the fund management industry of Ghana. We analyze the data using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and hierarchical regression model. The results reveal that the four relationship marketing dimensions (i.e. trust, commitment, communication, and conflict handling) have a significant positive association with customer loyalty. Furthermore, relationship strength and intensity significantly augment and moderate the association between relationship marketing dimensions and customer loyalty. However, relationship duration could neither augment nor moderate the association between the relationship marketing dimensions and customer loyalty. We have made a significant contribution to literature by establishing the effectiveness of relationship strength and intensity as moderators on the association between relationship marketing dimensions and customer loyalty in the fund management industry of an emerging market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This combined experimental and theoretical study illustrates the profound consequences of non‐planarity on the electronic properties of polycyclic arenes. Three isomeric [10]fibonacene tetraesters were synthesized through a robust and regiocontrolled Perkin/Mallory approach: a nearly planar [10]phenacene derivative, a moderately twisted [10]semicircle derivative, and a 3D non‐planar [10]helicene derivative. The photophysical properties of the 3D [10]helicene isomer were found to be dramatically different from the comparable ones of the [10]phenacene and [10]semicircle isomers. The aromatic properties of the [10]phenacene and [10]semicircle isomers conform well with their predictive Kekulé and Clar analyses, but the [10]helicene isomer deviates from these general topological rules, which appears to be a general phenomenon for [n]fibonacenes with n≥9. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geometric shape models often help to extract specific contours in digital images (the segmentation process) with major precision. Motivated by this idea, we introduce two models for the representation of prostate shape in the axial plane of magnetic resonance images. In more detail, the models are two parametric closed curves of the plane. The analytic study of the models includes the geometric role of the parameters describing the curves, symmetries, invariants, special cases, elliptic Fourier descriptors, conditions for simple curves and area of the enclosed surfaces. The models were validated for prostate shapes by fitting the curves to prostate contours delineated by a radiologist and measuring the errors with the mean distance, the Hausdorff distance and the Dice similarity coefficient. Validation was also conducted by comparing our models with the deformed superellipse model used in literature. Our models are equivalent in fitting metrics to the deformed superellipse model; however, they have the advantage of a more straightforward formulation and they depend on fewer parameters, implying a reduced computational time for the fitting process. Due to the validation, our models may be applied for developing innovative and performing segmentation methods or improving existing ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Central metatarsal pressure is increased in patients with hallux valgus, but the pedographic outcomes after hallux valgus (HV) correction are inconclusive. No known literature has reported the pedographic outcomes after HV correction with Minimally Invasive Chevron and Akin Osteotomy (MICA). Methods: A prospective cohort of 31 feet from 25 patients with moderate-to-severe symptomatic HV but without metatarsalgia underwent MICA and was evaluated using radiographic parameters and pedographic measurements (Footscan®, RSscan International, Olen, Belgium). Data were collected preoperatively and 3 months after surgery. Results: The radiographic parameters of the hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle, distal metatarsal articular angle, first metatarsal head lateral shape, and lateral sesamoid grade significantly improved after MICA. The corrected first metatarsal length was significantly shortened by 2.3 mm, with consistent second metatarsal protrusion distance, lateral Meary's angle, and calcaneal pitch angle. Max force, max pressure, cumulative force, and cumulative pressure on the central metatarsals did not show significant changes between pre- and post-operative measurements, while these parameters significantly decreased in the hallux and first metatarsal area. Conclusion: MICA effectively corrects radiographic parameters but does not reduce central metatarsal loading in patients with moderate-to-severe HV without metatarsalgia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the role of radiomics in preoperative outcome prediction in cirrhotic patients who underwent transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) using "controlled expansion covered stents". Materials and Methods: This retrospective institutional review board-approved study included cirrhotic patients undergoing TIPS with controlled expansion covered stent placement. From preoperative CT images, the whole liver was segmented into Volumes of Interest (VOIs) at the unenhanced and portal venous phase. Radiomics features were extracted, collected, and analyzed. Subsequently, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn to assess which features could predict patients' outcomes. The endpoints studied were 6-month overall survival (OS), development of hepatic encephalopathy (HE), grade II or higher HE according to West Haven Criteria, and clinical response, defined as the absence of rebleeding or ascites. A radiomic model for outcome prediction was then designed. Results: A total of 76 consecutive cirrhotic patients undergoing TIPS creation were enrolled. The highest performances in terms of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) were observed for the "clinical response" and "survival at 6 months" outcome with 0.755 and 0.767, at the unenhanced and portal venous phase, respectively. Specifically, on basal scans, accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity were 66.42%, 63.93%, and 73.75%, respectively. At the portal venous phase, an accuracy of 65.34%, a specificity of 62.38%, and a sensitivity of 74.00% were demonstrated. Conclusions: A pre-interventional machine learning-based CT radiomics algorithm could be useful in predicting survival and clinical response after TIPS creation in cirrhotic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Spinal surgery, particularly for cervical pathologies such as myelopathy and radiculopathy, requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skill. The complexity of these conditions, often necessitating surgical intervention, underscores the need for intricate understanding and precision in execution. Advancements in neurosurgical training, especially with the use of low-cost 3D models for simulating cervical spine tumor removal, are revolutionizing this field. These models provide the realistic and hands-on experience crucial for mastering complex neurosurgical techniques, filling gaps left by traditional educational methods. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of 3D-printed cervical vertebrae models in enhancing surgical skills, focusing on tumor removal, and involving 20 young neurosurgery residents. These models, featuring silicone materials to simulate the spinal cord and tumor tissues, provided a realistic training experience. The training protocol included a laminectomy, dural incision, and tumor resection, using a range of microsurgical tools, focusing on steps usually performed by senior surgeons. Results: The training program received high satisfaction rates, with 85% of participants extremely satisfied and 15% satisfied. The 3D models were deemed very realistic by 85% of participants, effectively replicating real-life scenarios. A total of 80% found that the simulated pathologies were varied and accurate, and 90% appreciated the models' accurate tactile feedback. The training was extremely useful for 85% of the participants in developing surgical skills, with significant post-training confidence boosts and a strong willingness to recommend the program to peers. Conclusions: Continuing laboratory training for residents is crucial. Our model offers essential, accessible training for all hospitals, regardless of their resources, promising improved surgical quality and patient outcomes across various pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research in security studies contends that information warfare (IW) is becoming a critical element in states' overall security strategies. Additionally, many researchers posit that artificial intelligence (AI) is quickly emerging as an important component of digital communications and states' military applications worldwide. However, less is known regarding how states are incorporating AI in their information warfare and influence operations (IWIO). Thus, given the growing importance of AI and IW in global security, this paper examines how the United States, China, and Russia are incorporating AI in their IWIO strategies and tactics. We find that the US, China, and Russia are utilizing AI in their IWIO approaches in significant ways depending on each state's overall IW strategy, with important implications for international security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]