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Centralising soft tissue sarcoma (STS) treatment in expert centres and implementing comprehensive therapy concepts through interdisciplinary tumour boards (ITB) has led to significant treatment progress. However, our knowledge on the implementation of the ITB recommendations and its impact on patient outcome is limited. In this retrospective analysis, we examined a cohort of 222 adult patients (pts) with primary STS who were presented to the ITB of the Charité Comprehensive Cancer Centre between 2015 and 2020. In localised disease (n = 188), resection was recommended in 71% (n = 134) of pts. The treatment modalities chemotherapy with or without regional deep hyperthermia, and radiotherapy were recommended in 37% (n = 69), 26% (n = 48) and 52% (n = 97), respectively. Complex multidisciplinary concepts were established in 29% (n = 54) including ≥3 treatment modalities. Only partial adherence, either by choice of patient or treating physician, was associated with a higher risk of both progression (HR 4.0 95%‐CI 1.6–9.7 p <.01) and mortality (HR 5.3 95%‐CI 1.7–16.4 p <.01). Pts inable to follow the ITB recommendations due to complications or rapid progression showed a high‐risk profile with increased mortality and progression rates (HR 18.1 95%‐CI 8.5–38.2 p <.001; HR 21.5 95%‐CI 8.5–54.7 p <.001). To our knowledge, this represents the first German Comprehensive Cancer Centre analysis of therapy adherence in STS. It provides further real‐world evidence that full adherence to ITB recommendations and the ability to adhere to them are of prognostic value for patient outcome and underlines the importance of interdisciplinary decision‐making and treatment planning for STS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non‐coplanarity and mixed beam modality could be combined to further enhance dosimetric treatment plan quality. We introduce dynamic mixed beam arc therapy (DYMBARC) as an innovative technique that combines non‐coplanar photon and electron arcs, dynamic gantry and collimator rotations, and intensity modulation with photon multileaf collimator (MLC). However, finding favorable beam directions for DYMBARC is challenging due to the large solution space, machine component constraints, and optimization parameters, posing a highly non‐convex optimization problem. Purpose: To establish DYMBARC and solve the pathfinding challenge by employing direct aperture optimization (DAO) to determine the table angles and gantry angle ranges of photon and electron arcs for different clinically motivated cases. Methods: The method starts by generating a grid of beam directions based on user‐defined resolutions along the gantry and table angle axes for each beam quality considered. Beam directions causing collisions or entering through the end of CT are excluded. For electrons, a fixed source‐to‐surface distance of 80 cm is used to reduce in‐air scatter. Electron beam energies with insufficient range to reach the target or beam directions impinging on the table before reaching the patient are excluded. The remaining beam directions form the pathfinding solution space. Promising photon and electron MLC‐defined apertures, with associated monitor unit (MU) weights, are iteratively added using a hybrid‐DAO algorithm. This algorithm combines column generation to add apertures and simulated annealing to further refine aperture shapes and weights. Apertures are added until the requested number of paths are formed and the user‐defined maximum total gantry angle range is reached. Paths are resampled to a finer gantry angle resolution and subject to DAO for simultaneous optimization of beam intensities along the photon/electron arcs. Subsequent final dose calculation and MU weight reoptimization result in a deliverable DYMBARC plan. DYMBARC plans are created for three clinically motivated cases (brain, breast, and pelvis) and compared to DYMBARC variants: colli‐DTRT (dynamic collimator trajectory radiotherapy) using non‐coplanar photon arcs; and Arc‐MBRT (mixed beam radiotherapy) using photons and electrons but restricted to coplanar setup. Additionally, a manually defined volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) setup serves as a reference clinical technique. Dose distributions, dose‐volume histograms, and dosimetric endpoints are evaluated. Dosimetric validation with radiochromic film measurements (gamma evaluation, 3% / 2 mm (global), 10% dose threshold) is performed on a TrueBeam system in developer mode for one case. Results: While maintaining similar target coverage and homogeneity, DYMBARC reduced mean doses to organs‐at‐risk compared to VMAT by an average of 3.2, 0.5, and 2.9 Gy for the brain, breast, and pelvis cases, respectively. Similar or smaller mean dose reductions were observed for Arc‐MBRT or colli‐DTRT, compared to VMAT. Electron contributions to the mean planning target volume dose ranged from 2% to 34% for DYMBARC and from 11% to 40% for Arc‐MBRT. Measurement validation showed >99.7% gamma passing rate. Conclusions: DYMBARC was successfully established using a dosimetrically optimized pathfinding approach, combining non‐coplanarity with mixed beam modality. DYMBARC facilitated the determination of photon and electron contributions on a case‐by‐case basis, enhancing more personalized treatment modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In systematic reviews (SRs), geographical limitations in literature searches can aid in focussing research efforts. A methodological review published in 2016 examined the approaches SR authors use to identify studies about Germany, analysing 36 SRs. Objective: The aim of this study was to update the original review. Methods: We conducted a literature search on PubMed for SRs synthesising evidence from studies about Germany published between 22 January 2016 and 7 June 2022. Two reviewers independently performed study selection and data extraction. We evaluated the application of search syntax for restricting studies to those about Germany using the peer review of electronic search strategies criteria. The updated findings were reported and summarised alongside those of the original review. Results: Thirty‐two additional SRs were newly included (total = 68). Geographic restrictions were applied in 57 SRs, representing 72% in the original review and increasing to 97% in the newly included SRs. Moreover, there was an increased use of truncations and field tags. Conclusion: Although geographical restriction methods are increasingly utilised, additional tools are necessary to enhance the robustness of search strategies. The development of a dedicated geographical search filter would facilitate the identification of studies about Germany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global change stressors can modify ecological niches of species, thereby altering ecological interactions within communities and food webs. Yet, some species might take advantage of a fast‐changing environment, allowing species with high niche plasticity to thrive under climate change.We used natural CO2 vents to test the effects of ocean acidification on niche modifications of a temperate rocky reef fish assemblage. We quantified three ecological niche traits (overlap, shift and breadth) across three key niche dimensions (trophic, habitat and behavioural).Only one species increased its niche width along multiple niche dimensions (trophic and behavioural), shifted its niche in the remaining (habitat) was the only species to experience a highly increased density (i.e. doubling) at vents. The other three species that showed slightly increased or declining densities at vents only displayed a niche width increase in one (habitat niche) out of seven niche metrics considered. This niche modification was likely in response to habitat simplification (transition to a system dominated by turf algae) under ocean acidification.We further showed that, at the vents, the less abundant fishes had a negligible competitive impact on the most abundant and common species. This species appeared to expand its niche space, overlapping with other species, which likely led to lower abundances of the latter under elevated CO2.We conclude that niche plasticity across multiple dimensions could be a potential adaptation in fishes to benefit from a changing environment in a high‐CO2 world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores defect engineering in 2D materials using ion beam irradiation to modify the electrical and optical properties with potential in advancing quantum electronics and photonics. Helium and neon ions ranging from 5 to 7.5 keV are employed to manipulate charge transport in monolayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2). In situ electrical characterization occurs without vacuum breakage post‐irradiation. Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy quantify ion irradiation's impact on MoS2. Small doses of helium ion irradiation enhance monolayer MoS2 conductivity in field‐effect transistor geometry by inducing doping and substrate charging. Findings reveal a strong correlation between the electrical properties of MoS2 and the primary ion used, as well as the substrate on which the irradiation occurred. Using hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) as a buffer layer between MoS2 flake and SiO2 substrate yields distinct alterations in electrical behavior subsequent to ion irradiation compared to the MoS2 layer directly interfacing with SiO2. Molecular dynamics simulations and density functional theory provide insight into experimental results, emphasizing substrate influence on measured electrical properties post‐ion irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The accurate documentation of a medical history interview is an important goal in medical education. As students' documentation of medical history interviews is mostly decentralised on the wards, a systematic assessment of documentation quality is missing. We therefore evaluated the extent of details missed in students' medical history reports in a standardised setting. Methods: In this prospective, observational study, 123 of 380 students (32.4%) participated in an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) regarding history taking and documentation. Based on the interviews and nine deductively selected main categories, a categorical system was established using a summarising qualitative content analysis. The items in the transcripts (defined as ground truth) and in students' reports were labelled and assigned to the correct subcategory. The ground truth and students' reports were compared to quantify students' documentation completeness. Results: Next to the nine deductively selected main categories, 61 subcategories were defined. A total of 8943 items were labelled in the 123 interview transcripts (ground truth), compared with 5870 items labelled in students' reports (65.6% completeness of students' reports compared with ground truth). The main category personal details overlapped with 94.2% between students' report and ground truth in contrast to the main category with the highest discrepancy, allergy, with 41.1% overlap. Pertinent negative items and non‐numerical quantifications were often missed. Conclusions: Medical students show incomplete documentation of medical history interviews. Therefore, accurate documentation should be taught as an important goal in medical education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patient‐Specific Surgical Guides (PSSGs) are advocated for reducing radiation exposure, operation time and enhancing precision in surgery. However, existing accuracy assessments are limited to specific surgeries, leaving uncertainties about variations in accuracy across different anatomical sites, three‐dimensional (3D) printing technologies and manufacturers (traditional vs. printed at the point of care). This study aimed to evaluate PSSGs accuracy in traumatology and orthopaedic surgery, considering anatomical regions, printing methods and manufacturers. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis guidelines. Studies were eligible if they (1) assessed the accuracy of PSSGs by comparing preoperative planning and postoperative results in at least two different planes (2) used either computer tomography or magnetic resonance imaging (3) covered the field of orthopaedic surgery or traumatology and (4) were available in English or German language. The 'Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies' was used for methodological quality assessment. Descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, and ranges, are presented. A random effects meta‐analysis was performed to determine the pooled mean absolute deviation between preoperative plan and postoperative result for each anatomic region (shoulder, hip, spine, and knee). Results: Of 4212 initially eligible studies, 33 were included in the final analysis (8 for shoulder, 5 for hip, 5 for spine, 14 for knee and 1 for trauma). Pooled mean deviation (95% confidence interval) for total knee arthroplasty (TKA), total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), total hip arthroplasty (THA) and spine surgery (pedicle screw placement during spondylodesis) were 1.82° (1.48, 2.15), 2.52° (1.9, 3.13), 3.49° (3.04, 3.93) and 2.67° (1.64, 3.69), respectively. Accuracy varied between TKA and THA and between TKA and TSA. Conclusion: Accuracy of PSSGs depends on the type of surgery but averages around 2–3° deviation from the plan. The use of PSSGs might be considered for selected complex cases. Level of Evidence: Level 3 (meta‐analysis including Level 3 studies). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the perspective of orthopaedic surgeons on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and to evaluate the influence of experience, workplace setting and familiarity with digital solutions on views on AI. Methods: Orthopaedic surgeons of the AGA Society for Arthroscopy and Joint Surgery were invited to participate in an online, cross‐sectional survey designed to gather information on professional background, subjective AI knowledge, opinion on the future impact of AI, openness towards different applications of AI, and perceived advantages and disadvantages of AI. Subgroup analyses were performed to examine the influence of experience, workplace setting and openness towards digital solutions on perspectives towards AI. Results: Overall, 360 orthopaedic surgeons participated. The majority indicated average (43.6%) or rudimentary (38.1%) AI knowledge. Most (54.5%) expected AI to substantially influence orthopaedics within 5–10 years, predominantly as a complementary tool (91.1%). Preoperative planning (83.8%) was identified as the most likely clinical use case. A lack of consensus was observed regarding acceptable error levels. Time savings in preoperative planning (62.5%) and improved documentation (81%) were identified as notable advantages while declining skills of the next generation (64.5%) were rated as the most substantial drawback. There were significant differences in subjective AI knowledge depending on participants' experience (p = 0.021) and familiarity with digital solutions (p < 0.001), acceptable error levels depending on workplace setting (p = 0.004), and prediction of AI impact depending on familiarity with digital solutions (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The majority of orthopaedic surgeons in this survey anticipated a notable positive impact of AI on their field, primarily as an assistive technology. A lack of consensus on acceptable error levels of AI and concerns about declining skills among future surgeons were observed. Level of Evidence: Level IV, cross‐sectional study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ocean warming and species exploitation have already caused large‐scale reorganization of biological communities across the world. Accurate projections of future biodiversity change require a comprehensive understanding of how entire communities respond to global change. We combined a time‐dynamic integrated food web modeling approach (Ecosim) with previous data from community‐level mesocosm experiments to determine the independent and combined effects of ocean warming, ocean acidification and fisheries exploitation on a well‐managed temperate coastal ecosystem. The mesocosm parameters enabled important physiological and behavioral responses to climate stressors to be projected for trophic levels ranging from primary producers to top predators, including sharks. Through model simulations, we show that under sustainable rates of fisheries exploitation, near‐future warming or ocean acidification in isolation could benefit species biomass at higher trophic levels (e.g., mammals, birds, and demersal finfish) in their current climate ranges, with the exception of small pelagic fishes. However, under warming and acidification combined, biomass increases at higher trophic levels will be lower or absent, while in the longer term reduced productivity of prey species is unlikely to support the increased biomass at the top of the food web. We also show that increases in exploitation will suppress any positive effects of human‐driven climate change, causing individual species biomass to decrease at higher trophic levels. Nevertheless, total future potential biomass of some fisheries species in temperate areas might remain high, particularly under acidification, because unharvested opportunistic species will likely benefit from decreased competition and show an increase in biomass. Ecological indicators of species composition such as the Shannon diversity index decline under all climate change scenarios, suggesting a trade‐off between biomass gain and functional diversity. By coupling parameters from multilevel mesocosm food web experiments with dynamic food web models, we were able to simulate the generative mechanisms that drive complex responses of temperate marine ecosystems to global change. This approach, which blends theory with experimental data, provides new prospects for forecasting climate‐driven biodiversity change and its effects on ecosystem processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the manifold challenges solid electrolytes (SE) do face in NMC‖Lithium metal batteries, we demonstrate that these can be overcome by converting a commercial Celgard 2500 separator into a jack of all trades hybrid solid electrolyte (HSE). This approach follows a multi‐layer electrolyte strategy, to better cope with the very different chemistries of the cathode, the bulk electrolyte material, and the Li metal anode. A cathode‐facing electrolyte layer based on lithium aluminum titanium phosphate (LATP) provides a high voltage stability of ≥4.5 V. High mechanical strength of the overall thin film electrolyte (≤50 μm) is achieved with a middle layer based on Celgard 2500. The layer on the anode side, based on polyethylene oxide (PEO), allows stable cycling of the lithium metal. High Coulombic efficiencies in NMC622‖Li metal cells (99.9 %) and LFP‖Li metal cells (99.9 %) enable long term cycling with high‐capacity retention of 46 % and 52 % after 1,000 cycles, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non‐coplanar techniques have shown to improve the achievable dose distribution compared to standard coplanar techniques for multiple treatment sites but finding optimal beam directions is challenging. Dynamic collimator trajectory radiotherapy (colli‐DTRT) is a new intensity modulated radiotherapy technique that uses non‐coplanar partial arcs and dynamic collimator rotation. Purpose: To solve the beam angle optimization (BAO) problem for colli‐DTRT and non‐coplanar VMAT (NC‐VMAT) by determining the table‐angle and the gantry‐angle ranges of the partial arcs through iterative 4π fluence map optimization (FMO) and beam direction elimination. Methods: BAO considers all available beam directions sampled on a gantry‐table map with the collimator angle aligned to the superior‐inferior axis (colli‐DTRT) or static (NC‐VMAT). First, FMO is performed, and beam directions are scored based on their contributions to the objective function. The map is thresholded to remove the least contributing beam directions, and arc candidates are formed by adjacent beam directions with the same table angle. Next, FMO and arc candidate trimming, based on objective function penalty score, is performed iteratively until a desired total gantry angle range is reached. Direct aperture optimization on the final set of colli‐DTRT or NC‐VMAT arcs generates deliverable plans. colli‐DTRT and NC‐VMAT plans were created for seven clinically‐motivated cases with targets in the head and neck (two cases), brain, esophagus, lung, breast, and prostate. colli‐DTRT and NC‐VMAT were compared to coplanar VMAT plans as well as to class‐solution non‐coplanar VMAT plans for the brain and head and neck cases. Dosimetric validation was performed for one colli‐DTRT (head and neck) and one NC‐VMAT (breast) plan using film measurements. Results: Target coverage and conformity was similar for all techniques. colli‐DTRT and NC‐VMAT plans had improved dosimetric performance compared to coplanar VMAT for all treatment sites except prostate where all techniques were equivalent. For the head and neck and brain cases, mean dose reduction—in percentage of the prescription dose—to parallel organs was on average 0.7% (colli‐DTRT), 0.8% (NC‐VMAT) and 0.4% (class‐solution) compared to VMAT. The reduction in D2% for the serial organs was on average 1.7% (colli‐DTRT), 2.0% (NC‐VMAT) and 0.9% (class‐solution). For the esophagus, lung, and breast cases, mean dose reduction to parallel organs was on average 0.2% (colli‐DTRT) and 0.3% (NC‐VMAT) compared to VMAT. The reduction in D2% for the serial organs was on average 1.3% (colli‐DTRT) and 0.9% (NC‐VMAT). Estimated delivery times for colli‐DTRT and NC‐VMAT were below 4 min for a full gantry angle range of 720°, including transitions between arcs, except for the brain case where multiple arcs covered the whole table angle range. These times are in the same order as the class‐solution for the head and neck and brain cases. Total optimization times were 25%–107% longer for colli‐DTRT, including BAO, compared to VMAT. Conclusions: We successfully developed dosimetrically motivated BAO for colli‐DTRT and NC‐VMAT treatment planning. colli‐DTRT and NC‐VMAT are applicable to multiple treatment sites, including body sites, with beneficial or equivalent dosimetric performances compared to coplanar VMAT and reasonable delivery times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the performance of risk calculators (RCs) predicting lymph node invasion (LNI) and extraprostatic extension (EPE) in men undergoing transperineal magnetic resonance imaging/transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)‐fusion template saturation biopsy (TTSB) and conventional systematic TRUS‐guided biopsy (SB). Patients and Methods: The RCs were tested in a consecutive cohort of 645 men undergoing radical prostatectomy with extended pelvic LN dissection between 2005 and 2019. TTSB was performed in 230 (35.7%) and SB in 415 (64.3%) men. Risk of LNI and EPE was calculated using the available RCs. Discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness stratified by different biopsy techniques were assessed. Results: Lymph node invasion was observed in 23 (10%) and EPE in 73 (31.8%) of cases with TTSB and 53 (12.8%) and 158 (38%) with SB, respectively. RCs showed an excellent discrimination and acceptable calibration for prediction of LNI based on TTSB (area under the curve [AUC]/risk estimation: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center [MSKCC]‐RC 0.79/−4%, Briganti (2012)‐RC 0.82/−4%, Gandaglia‐RC 0.81/+6%). These were comparable in SB (MSKCC‐RC 0.78/+2%; Briganti (2012)‐RC 0.77/−3%). Decision curve analysis (DCA) revealed a net benefit at threshold probabilities between 3% and 6% when TTSB was used. For prediction of EPE based on TTSB an inferior discrimination and variable calibration were observed (AUC/risk estimation: MSKCC‐RC 0.71/+8% and Martini (2018)‐RC 0.69/+2%) achieving a net benefit on DCA only at risk thresholds of >17%. Performance of RCs for prediction of LNI and EPE based on SB showed comparable results with a better performance in the DCA for LNI (risk thresholds 1–2%) and poorer performance for EPE (risk threshold >20%). This study is limited by its retrospective single‐institution design. Conclusions: The potentially more accurate grading ability of TTSB did not result in improved performance of preoperative RCs. Prediction tools for LNI proved clinical usefulness while RCs for EPE did not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multilayered ternary solid polymer electrolyte (TSPE) is presented. First, the influence of polyethylene oxide degradation on cell failure, development of subsequent volatile degradation products, and cell impedance is analyzed. The low electrochemical stability window/oxidative stability (≥3.8 V) results in side‐chain oxidation and loss of active material. Subsequently, electrolyte stability is improved and a thin‐film (≤50 μm) TSPE with three functional layers is developed to match the wide‐ranging electrolyte requirements toward Li metal anodes and different cathode materials like LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2O2 and LiFePO4 (NCM622, LFP). The high‐voltage stability of ≥4.75 V makes the TSPE a promising candidate in high‐voltage applications. Because of high Coulombic efficiencies in NMC622‖Li metal (99.7%) and LFP‖Li metal (99.9%) cells, the presented electrolyte enables stable long‐term cycling with great capacity retention of 86% and 94%, respectively. The temperature stability of >300 °C and the capability to prevent high surface area Li and dendrite formation (even at an areal capacity utilization of >40 mAh cm−2) contribute to high safety under a wide range of conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To improve organ at risk (OAR) sparing, dynamic trajectory radiotherapy (DTRT) extends VMAT by dynamic table and collimator rotation during beam‐on. However, comprehensive investigations regarding the impact of the gantry‐table (GT) rotation gradient on the DTRT plan quality have not been conducted. Purpose: To investigate the impact of a user‐defined GT rotation gradient on plan quality of DTRT plans in terms of dosimetric plan quality, dosimetric robustness, deliverability, and delivery time. Methods: The dynamic trajectories of DTRT are described by GT and gantry‐collimator paths. The GT path is determined by minimizing the overlap of OARs with planning target volume (PTV). This approach is extended to consider a GT rotation gradient by means of a maximum gradient of the path (Gmax${G}_{max}$) between two adjacent control points (G=|Δtableangle/Δgantryangle|$G = | \Delta {{\mathrm{table\ angle}}/\Delta {\mathrm{gantry\ angle}}} |$) and maximum absolute change of G (ΔGmax${{\Delta}}{G}_{max}$). Four DTRT plans are created with different maximum G&∆G: Gmax${G}_{max}$&ΔGmax${{\Delta}}{G}_{max}$ = 0.5&0.125 (DTRT‐1), 1&0.125 (DTRT‐2), 3&0.125 (DTRT‐3) and 3&1‍(DTRT‐4), including 3–4 dynamic trajectories, for three clinically motivated cases in the head and neck and brain region (A, B, and C). A reference VMAT plan for each case is created. For all plans, plan quality is assessed and compared. Dosimetric plan quality is evaluated by target coverage, conformity, and OAR sparing. Dosimetric robustness is evaluated against systematic and random patient‐setup uncertainties between ±3mm$ \pm 3\ {\mathrm{mm}}$ in the lateral, longitudinal, and vertical directions, and machine uncertainties between ±4∘$ \pm 4^\circ \ $in the dynamically rotating machine components (gantry, table, collimator rotation). Delivery time is recorded. Deliverability and delivery accuracy on a TrueBeam are assessed by logfile analysis for all plans and additionally verified by film measurements for one case. All dose calculations are Monte Carlo based. Results: The extension of the DTRT planning process with user‐defined Gmax&ΔGmax${G}_{max}\& {{\Delta}}{G}_{max}$ to investigate the impact of the GT rotation gradient on plan quality is successfully demonstrated. With increasing Gmax&ΔGmax${G}_{max}\& {{\Delta}}{G}_{max}$, slight (case C, Dmean,parotidl.${D}_{mean,\ parotid\ l.}$: up to‍−1‍Gy) and substantial (case A, D0.03cm3,opticnerver.${D}_{0.03c{m}^3,\ optic\ nerve\ r.}$: up to −9.3 Gy, case‍B,Dmean,brain$\ {D}_{mean,\ brain}$: up to −4.7‍Gy) improvements in OAR sparing are observed compared to VMAT, while maintaining similar target coverage. All plans are delivered on the TrueBeam. Expected and actual machine position values recorded in the logfiles deviated by <0.2° for gantry, table and collimator rotation. The film measurements agreed by >96% (2%‍global/2 mm Gamma passing rate) with the dose calculation. With increasing Gmax&ΔGmax${G}_{max}\& {{\Delta}}{G}_{max}$, delivery time is prolonged by <2 min/trajectory (DTRT‐4) compared to VMAT and DTRT‐1. The DTRT plans for case A and B and the VMAT plan for case C plan reveal the best dosimetric robustness for the considered uncertainties. Conclusion: The impact of the GT rotation gradient on DTRT plan quality is comprehensively investigated for three cases in the head and neck and brain region. Increasing freedom in this gradient improves dosimetric plan quality at the cost of increased delivery time for the investigated cases. No clear dependency of GT rotation gradient on dosimetric robustness is observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron transfer to peat particulate organic matter (POM) as terminal electron acceptor (TEA) in anaerobic respiration has been hypothesized to lower methane emissions from peatlands by competitively suppressing methanogenesis and/or allowing for anaerobic oxidation of methane. We herein provide evidence for two critical aspects of this hypothesis: (a) peat POM is present in a reduced state in situ in the anoxic peat subsurface, and (b) reduced POM at the oxic‐anoxic interface in peat soils can be oxidized by dissolved oxygen (DO), restoring its TEA capacity. We reacted reduced POM from three ombrotrophic bogs in Sweden with DO in soil‐packed column‐breakthrough experiments (CBEs), mimicking oxidation reactions at the oxic‐anoxic interface. Breakthrough of DO was substantially retarded relative to the inert tracer bromide, consistent with DO reduction by POM. Control experiments confirmed abiotic DO reduction and excluded DO consumption through aerobic respiration. Modeling DO breakthrough revealed fast and slowly reacting POM moieties with reaction times spanning minutes to days. Complementary push‐pull tests (PPTs) in the anoxic subsurface of one bog confirmed results from laboratory CBEs: lower recoveries of injected DO compared with bromide supported DO reduction by reduced POM. Rates of reduction of injected DO decreased with increasing number of injections, consistent with continuous oxidation of reduced POM. Electron‐donating capacities of POM to DO in CBEs and PPTs were comparable at 40–130 μmol e−/g dry POM. Our results substantiate that POM is a regenerable TEA at oxic‐anoxic interfaces in peat soils and, thereby, may substantially lower CH4 emissions from peatlands. Plain Language Summary: Northern peatland soils contain large amounts of carbon stored as peat particulate organic matter (POM). Understanding how microorganisms turn over this carbon is important because turnover can release not only carbon dioxide but also methane, a more potent warming gas. Recent literature proposes that microorganisms in oxygen‐free parts of peat soils can turn over carbon substrate molecules by oxidation to carbon dioxide coupled to transferring electrons liberated in this process to POM. This newly proposed pathway is expected to substantially lower methane formation and emissions but relies on POM's ability to accept electrons. However, continuous electron transfer to POM in oxygen‐free soil parts would eventually consume the capacity of POM to accept electrons, at which point methane formation would set in. In our work, we show that the electrons stored in POM under anoxic conditions can be transferred to dissolved oxygen (DO) which periodically enters the peat soils by various means. Reaction with DO thus restores POM's capacity to accept electrons in subsequent oxygen‐free periods and thus its potential to suppress methane emissions. Our findings will help to better understand the role of POM in peatland carbon turnover to carbon dioxide and methane. Key Points: Peat particulate organic matter (POM) in the anoxic subsurface of three Swedish ombrotrophic bogs is present in reduced statesPeat POM transfers 40–130 μmol e− per g to dissolved oxygen with reaction times spanning from minutes to daysPOM acts as regenerable terminal electron acceptor in anaerobic respiration at oxic‐anoxic interfaces in peat soils [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non‐coplanar radiotherapy treatment techniques on C‐arm linear accelerators have the potential to reduce dose to organs‐at‐risk in comparison with coplanar treatment techniques. Accurately predicting possible collisions between gantry, table and patient during treatment planning is needed to ensure patient safety. We offer a freely available collision prediction tool using Blender, a free and open‐source 3D computer graphics software toolset. A geometric model of a C‐arm linear accelerator including a library of patient models is created inside Blender. Based on the model, collision predictions can be used both to calculate collision‐free zones and to check treatment plans for collisions. The tool is validated for two setups, once with and once without a full body phantom with the same table position. For this, each gantry‐table angle combination with a 2° resolution is manually checked for collision interlocks at a TrueBeam system and compared to simulated collision predictions. For the collision check of a treatment plan, the tool outputs the minimal distance between the gantry, table and patient model and a video of the movement of the gantry and table, which is demonstrated for one use case. A graphical user interface allows user‐friendly input of the table and patient specification for the collision prediction tool. The validation resulted in a true positive rate of 100%, which is the rate between the number of correctly predicted collision gantry‐table combinations and the number of all measured collision gantry‐table combinations, and a true negative rate of 89%, which is the ratio between the number of correctly predicted collision‐free combinations and the number of all measured collision‐free combinations. A collision prediction tool is successfully created and able to produce maps of collision‐free zones and to test treatment plans for collisions including visualisation of the gantry and table movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dynamic trajectory radiotherapy (DTRT) extends state‐of‐the‐art volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) by dynamic table and collimator rotations during beam‐on. The effects of intrafraction motion during DTRT delivery are unknown, especially regarding the possible interplay between patient and machine motion with additional dynamic axes. Purpose: To experimentally assess the technical feasibility and quantify the mechanical and dosimetric accuracy of respiratory gating during DTRT delivery. Methods: A DTRT and VMAT plan are created for a clinically motivated lung cancer case and delivered to a dosimetric motion phantom (MP) placed on the table of a TrueBeam system using Developer Mode. The MP reproduces four different 3D motion traces. Gating is triggered using an external marker block, placed on the MP. Mechanical accuracy and delivery time of the VMAT and DTRT deliveries with and without gating are extracted from the logfiles. Dosimetric performance is assessed by means of gamma evaluation (3% global/2 mm, 10% threshold). Results: The DTRT and VMAT plans are successfully delivered with and without gating for all motion traces. Mechanical accuracy is similar for all experiments with deviations <0.14° (gantry angle), <0.15° (table angle), <0.09° (collimator angle) and <0.08 mm (MLC leaf positions). For DTRT (VMAT), delivery times are 1.6–2.3 (1.6– 2.5) times longer with than without gating for all motion traces except one, where DTRT (VMAT) delivery is 5.0 (3.6) times longer due to a substantial uncorrected baseline drift affecting only DTRT delivery. Gamma passing rates with (without) gating for DTRT/VMAT were ≥96.7%/98.5% (≤88.3%/84.8%). For one VMAT arc without gating it was 99.6%. Conclusion: Gating is successfully applied during DTRT delivery on a TrueBeam system for the first time. Mechanical accuracy is similar for VMAT and DTRT deliveries with and without gating. Gating substantially improved dosimetric performance for DTRT and VMAT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous ceramics are demanded in a wide range of high‐temperature, biological and energy‐related applications, but may show conflicting properties or suffer from poor mechanical properties. Introducing pores at different length scales has been shown to be a promising design strategy to combine antagonistic performance parameters and reach high porosity without severely compromising strength. Herein, a cost‐effective and simple process to create strong, highly porous ceramics via direct ink writing of suspensions of hollow microspheres into cellular architectures with pores at three hierarchical levels is reported. X‐ray diffraction, rheological measurements, scanning electron microscopy, and mechanical tests are conducted to thoroughly study the processing steps and morphology of the printed hierarchical porous ceramics. The presence of pores at multiple length scales increases significantly the mechanical strength of the porous structure, providing a useful platform for the manufacturing of lightweight ceramics from inexpensive and widely available feedstock materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis is commonly associated with static posterior subluxation of the humeral head. Scapulae with static/dynamic posterior instability feature a superiorly and horizontally oriented acromion. We investigated whether the acromion acts as a restraint to posterior humeral translation. Methods: Five three-dimensional (3D) printed scapula models were biomechanically tested. A statistical shape mean model (SSMM) of the normal scapula of 40 asymptomatic shoulders was fabricated. Next, a SSMM of scapular anatomy associated with posterior subluxation was generated using data of 20 scapulae ("B1"). This model was then used to generate three models of surgical correction: glenoid version, acromial orientation, and acromial and glenoid orientation. With the joint axially loaded (100N) and the humerus stabilized, an anterior translation force was applied to the scapula in 35°, 60° and 75° of glenohumeral flexion. Translation (mm) was measured. Results: In the normal scapula, the humerus translates significantly less to contact with the acromion compared to all other configurations (p <.000 for all comparisons; i.e. 35°: "normal" 8,1 mm (± 0,0) versus "B1" 11,9 mm (± 0,0) versus "B1 Acromion Correction" 12,2 mm (± 0,2) versus "B1 Glenoid Correction" 13,3 mm (± 0,1)). Restoration of normal translation was only achieved with correction of glenoid and acromial anatomy (i.e. 75°: "normal" 11 mm (± 0,8) versus "B1 Acromion Correction" 17,5 mm (± 0,1) versus "B1 Glenoid Correction" 19,7 mm (± 1,3) versus "B1 Glenoid + Acromion Correction" 11,5 mm (± 1,1)). Conclusions: Persistence or recurrence of static/dynamic posterior instability after correction of glenoid version alone may be related to incomplete restoration of the intrinsic stability that is conferred by a normal acromial anatomy. Level of Evidence V: biomechanical study [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using first‐principles and analytical potential atomistic simulations, production of defects in epitaxial graphene (EG) on SiC upon ion irradiation for ion types and energies accessible in helium‐ion microscope is studied. Graphene‐SiC systems consisting of the buffer (zero) graphene layer and SiC substrate, as well as one (monolayer) and two (bilayer) additional graphene layers, are focused on. The probabilities for single, double, and more complex vacancies to appear upon impacts of energetic ions in each graphene layer as functions of He‐ and Ne‐ion energies are calculated and the data are compared with those obtained for free‐standing graphene. The results indicate that the role of the substrate is minimal for He‐ion irradiation with energies above 5 keV, which can be associated with a low sputtering yield from this system upon ion irradiation, as compared with the common Si/SiO2 substrate. In contrast, SiC substrate has a significant effect on defect production upon Ne‐ion irradiation. The results can serve as a guide to the experiments on ion irradiation of EG to choose the optimum ion beam parameters for defect‐mediated engineering of such systems, for example, for creating nucleation centers to grow other 2D materials, such as h‐BN, on top of the irradiated EG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethosuximide, the first-line therapy for childhood absence epilepsy, is currently formulated as a syrup (Zarontin®, Pfizer) with a bitter taste and high sugar content, poorly adapted to children, and a ketogenic diet. The collaborative European FP7 project KIEKIDS aimed at developing an innovative sugar-free, tasteless formulation convenient for pediatric use. This dual Phase-I study evaluated two granule formulations based on lipid multiparticulate (LMP) technology. Two panels of 6 healthy adult volunteers underwent a randomized, placebo-controlled, partly blinded, 3-way cross-over trial, comparing ethosuximide granules A or B with placebo granules and syrup at single 10 mg/kg doses. Corresponding plasma pharmacokinetic profiles of ethosuximide were compared, along with palatability, safety, and tolerability. The LMP granule A proved suboptimal due to bitterness and adherence to beaker walls, while the optimized granule B revealed excellent palatability, similar to placebo granules, and low adherence to glass. The relative bioavailability of granules A versus syrup, based on dose-normalized Cmax and AUC0-∞ was 93.7% [90% CI: 76.3-115.1] and 96.1% [91.0-101.5], respectively. For granules B it was 87.6% [81.6-94.0] and 92.5% [88.5-96.6], respectively, with slightly delayed tmax of 0.75h [0.5-4.05] compared to syrup 0.5 h [0.3-0.8]. Tolerability visual analog scales revealed a trend for statistically non-significant improvement versus syrup at peak (30min) for transient dizziness (both granules), fatigue (granules A), and anxiety (granules B). The innovative ethosuximide granule formulation B achieves a suitable profile for pediatric use, being sugar-free, tasteless, bioequivalent, and well-tolerated while enabling precise adjustment to body weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although cancer is widely regarded as a major contributor to canine morbidity and mortality, its frequency in companion dogs has only infrequently been characterised. We analysed cross‐sectional data from the baseline survey of owners of 27 541 living companion dogs enrolled in the Dog Aging Project as of 31 December 2020 to estimate the lifetime prevalence of malignant and benign tumours and several potentially‐associated characteristics. Survey questions elicited information on history of 'cancer or tumors' including organ site and histologic type. Owners reported 819 malignant tumours (56% sited in the skin, muscle or other soft tissue) and 404 benign tumours (69% sited in the skin, muscle or other soft tissue). The lifetime prevalence of malignant tumours (29.7/1000 dogs) was approximately double the lifetime prevalence of benign tumours (14.7/1000 dogs). Lifetime prevalence of both malignant and benign tumours increased with dog age at survey completion. There were no statistically discernable differences in age‐adjusted lifetime prevalence of malignant (prevalence ratio (PR) = 0.93 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.82, 1.07] or benign tumours (PR = 1.10, 95% CI 0.91, 1.34) in mixed vs. purebred dogs. The lifetime prevalence of malignant tumours increased with increasing dog size class; compared to toy and small dogs, the age‐adjusted PRs (95% CIs) for medium, standard, large, and giant dogs were 1.65 (1.28, 2.11), 2.92 (2.35, 3.64), 3.67 (2.92, 4.62) and 2.99 (1.23, 4.02), respectively. Similar though less pronounced patterns in relation to dog size class were observed for benign tumours. Ongoing prospective data collection will permit future studies on risk factors for canine tumour incidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small RNAs mediate the silencing of transposable elements and other genomic loci, increasing nucleosome density and preventing undesirable gene expression. The unicellular ciliate Paramecium is a model to study dynamic genome organization in eukaryotic cells, given its unique feature of nuclear dimorphism. Here, the formation of the somatic macronucleus during sexual reproduction requires eliminating thousands of transposon remnants (IESs) and transposable elements scattered throughout the germline micronuclear genome. The elimination process is guided by Piwi‐associated small RNAs and leads to precise cleavage at IES boundaries. Here we show that IES recognition and precise excision are facilitated by recruiting ISWI1, a Paramecium homolog of the chromatin remodeler ISWI. ISWI1 knockdown substantially inhibits DNA elimination, quantitatively similar to development‐specific sRNA gene knockdowns but with much greater aberrant IES excision at alternative boundaries. We also identify key development‐specific sRNA biogenesis and transport proteins, Ptiwi01 and Ptiwi09, as ISWI1 cofactors in our co‐immunoprecipitation studies. Nucleosome profiling indicates that increased nucleosome density correlates with the requirement for ISWI1 and other proteins necessary for IES excision. We propose that chromatin remodeling together with small RNAs is essential for efficient and precise DNA elimination in Paramecium. Synopsis: Small non‐coding RNAs regulate genome reorganization in the ciliate Paramecium in a tightly controlled fashion. This study reports cross‐talk between a chromatin remodeler, ISWI1, and the sRNAs‐associated argonaute proteins Ptiwi01 and Ptiwi09 for the precise excision of transposable elements by the transposase PGM and genome reorganization during sexual development. Paramecium ISWI homolog ISWI1 is differentially upregulated during macronuclear development and affects DNA elimination.ISWI1 knockdown leads to alternative excision of IESs, including excision at the "forbidden peak" ~35 bp from the IESs, a region which is excluded from excision in wildtype.Ptiwi01 and Ptiwi09 interact with ISWI1 during sexual development.Knockdown of ISWI1 or the transposase PGM alters the distribution of nucleosome densities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our solar system is filled with meteoric particles, or cosmic dust, which is either interplanetary or interstellar in origin. Interstellar dust (ISD) enters the heliosphere due to the relative motion of the sun and the interstellar flow. Interplanetary dust (IPD) comes primarily from asteroid collisions or comet sublimation, and comprises the bulk of material entering Earth's atmosphere. This study examines variations in ISD and the IPD flux at Earth using observations from three different satellite techniques. First are size-resolved in situ meteoroid detections by the Ulysses spacecraft, and second are in situ indirect dust observations by Wind. Third are measurements of meteoric smoke in the mesosphere by the Solar Occultation For Ice Experiment (SOFIE). Wind and Ulysses observations are sorted into the interstellar and interplanetary components. Wind ISD show the anticipated correlation to the 22-year solar magnetic cycle, and are consistent with model predictions of ISD. Because Wind does not discriminate particle size, the IPD measurements were interpreted using meteoric mass distributions from Ulysses observations and from different models. Wind observations during 2007–2020 indicate a total meteoric influx at Earth of 22 metric tons per day (t d−1), in reasonable agreement with long-term averages from SOFIE (25 t d−1) and Ulysses (32 t d−1). The SOFIE and Wind influx time series both show an unexpected correlation to the 22-year solar cycle. This relationship could be an artifact, or may indicate that IPD responds to changes in the solar magnetic field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Increasing number of people have been prescribed antipsychotics (APs) off‐label in recent decades. This study aimed to identify the characteristics and predictors of receiving prescription of antipsychotics off‐label. Methods: The study sample was part of the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 (n = 7071). Data included questionnaires and national register data. Information on prescribed medications was extracted from the national register. The sample was divided into three groups: Persons who had been prescribed APs off‐label (n = 137), individuals with non‐psychotic mental disorders without APs off label (n = 1478) and individuals who had been diagnosed with psychosis or bipolar disorder and who had been prescribed APs (n = 151). We compared sociodemographic, lifestyle and clinical characteristics between the off‐label and the comparison groups using logistic regression. Results: The most common diagnoses in the off‐label group were depression (n = 96, 70.1%) and anxiety (n = 55, 40.1%). Compared with individuals with non‐psychotic mental disorders who were not prescribed APs off‐label, individuals with prescribed off‐label APs had a lower level of education, lower socioeconomic status, were less often married, had a higher level of somatic and psychiatric morbidity, were more often smokers and more often had a substance abuse disorder and heavy alcohol consumption. When comparing the off‐label group to individuals with psychosis or bipolar disorder who used APs, there were less differences, though individuals with psychosis or bipolar disorder had more markers of morbidity and a lower level of education. Conclusion: Individuals who had been prescribed APs off label had a higher level of mental and somatic morbidity and poorer socioeconomic status than individuals with non‐psychotic mental disorders who did not use APs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photo‐electrochemical production of solar fuels from carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight is an appealing approach. Nevertheless, it remains challenging to scale despite encouraging demonstrations at low power input. Higher current densities require notable voltage input as ohmic losses and activation overpotentials become more significant, resulting in lower solar‐to‐CO conversion efficiencies. A concentrated photovoltaic cell is integrated into a custom‐made heat managed photo‐electrochemical device. The heat is transferred from the photovoltaic module to the zero‐gap electrolyzer cell by the stream of anodic reactant and produce synergetic effects on both sides. With solar concentrations up to 450 suns (i.e., 450 kW m−2) applied for the first time to photo‐electrochemical reduction of CO2, a partial current for CO production of 4 A is achieved. At optimal conditions, the solar‐to‐CO conversion efficiency reaches 17% while maintaining a current density of 150 mA cm−2 in the electrolyzer and a CO selectivity above 90%, representing an overall 19% solar‐to‐fuel conversion efficiency. This study represents a first demonstration of photo‐electrochemical CO2 reduction under highly concentrated light, paving the way for resource efficient solar fuel production at high power input. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new localized excitonic state is demonstrated in patterned monolayer 2D semiconductors. The signature of an exciton associated with that state is observed in the photoluminescence spectrum after electron beam exposure of several 2D semiconductors. The localized state, which is distinguished by non‐linear power dependence, survives up to room temperature and is patternable down to 20 nm resolution. The response of the new exciton to the changes of electron beam energy, nanomechanical cleaning, and encapsulation via multiple microscopic, spectroscopic, and computational techniques is probed. All these approaches suggest that the state does not originate from irradiation‐induced structural defects or spatially non‐uniform strain, as commonly assumed. Instead, it is shown to be of extrinsic origin, likely a charge transfer exciton associated with the organic substance deposited onto the 2D semiconductor. By demonstrating that structural defects are not required for the formation of localized excitons, this work opens new possibilities for further understanding of localized excitons as well as their use in applications that are sensitive to the presence of defects, e.g. chemical sensing and quantum technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evaluating plan robustness is a key step in radiotherapy. Purpose: To develop a flexible Monte Carlo (MC)‐based robustness calculation and evaluation tool to assess and quantify dosimetric robustness of intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) treatment plans by exploring the impact of systematic and random uncertainties resulting from patient setup, patient anatomy changes, and mechanical limitations of machine components. Methods: The robustness tool consists of two parts: the first part includes automated MC dose calculation of multiple user‐defined uncertainty scenarios to populate a robustness space. An uncertainty scenario is defined by a certain combination of uncertainties in patient setup, rigid intrafraction motion and in mechanical steering of the following machine components: angles of gantry, collimator, table‐yaw, table‐pitch, table‐roll, translational positions of jaws, multileaf‐collimator (MLC) banks, and single MLC leaves. The Swiss Monte Carlo Plan (SMCP) is integrated in this tool to serve as the backbone for the MC dose calculations incorporating the uncertainties. The calculated dose distributions serve as input for the second part of the tool, handling the quantitative evaluation of the dosimetric impact of the uncertainties. A graphical user interface (GUI) is developed to simultaneously evaluate the uncertainty scenarios according to user‐specified conditions based on dose‐volume histogram (DVH) parameters, fast and exact gamma analysis, and dose differences. Additionally, a robustness index (RI) is introduced with the aim to simultaneously evaluate and condense dosimetric robustness against multiple uncertainties into one number. The RI is defined as the ratio of scenarios passing the conditions on the dose distributions. Weighting of the scenarios in the robustness space is possible to consider their likelihood of occurrence. The robustness tool is applied on IMRT, a volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), a dynamic trajectory radiotherapy (DTRT), and a dynamic mixed beam radiotherapy (DYMBER) plan for a brain case to evaluate the robustness to uncertainties of gantry‐, table‐, collimator angle, MLC, and intrafraction motion. Additionally, the robustness of the IMRT, VMAT, and DTRT plan against patient setup uncertainties are compared. The robustness tool is validated by Delta4 measurements for scenarios including all uncertainty types available. Results: The robustness tool performs simultaneous calculation of uncertainty scenarios, and the GUI enables their fast evaluation. For all evaluated plans and uncertainties, the planning target volume (PTV) margin prevented major clinical target volume (CTV) coverage deterioration (maximum observed standard deviation of D98%CTV$D98{\% _{{\rm{CTV}}}}$ was 1.3 Gy). OARs close to the PTV experienced larger dosimetric deviations (maximum observed standard deviation of D2%chiasma$D2{\% _{{\rm{chiasma}}}}$ was 14.5 Gy). Robustness comparison by RI evaluation against patient setup uncertainties revealed better dosimetric robustness of the VMAT and DTRT plans as compared to the IMRT plan. Delta4 validation measurements agreed with calculations by >96% gamma‐passing rate (3% global/2 mm). Conclusions: The robustness tool was successfully implemented. Calculation and evaluation of uncertainty scenarios with the robustness tool were demonstrated on a brain case. Effects of patient and machine‐specific uncertainties and the combination thereof on the dose distribution are evaluated in a user‐friendly GUI to quantitatively assess and compare treatment plans and their robustness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supraparticles are spherical colloidal crystals prepared by confined self‐assembly processes. A particularly appealing property of these microscale structures is the structural color arising from interference of light with their building blocks. Here, we assemble supraparticles with high structural order that exhibit coloration from uniform, polyhedral metal–organic framework (MOF) particles. We analyse the structural coloration as a function of the size of these anisotropic building blocks and their internal structure. We attribute the angle‐dependent coloration of the MOF supraparticles to the presence of ordered, onion‐like layers at the outermost regions. Surprisingly, even though different shapes of the MOF particles have different propensities to form these onion layers, all supraparticle dispersions show well‐visible macroscopic coloration, indicating that local ordering is sufficient to generate interference effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erosion and riverine transport of organic carbon is an important component of the global carbon cycle, but the significance of this process for Earth's surface carbon budgets depends on the sources of carbon being mobilized. In this study, we aim to constrain how runoff‐driven erosion modulates the contribution of different carbon source endmembers, that is, bedrock, soil and vegetation, in three forested headwater catchments in the Swiss Prealps. The sources of organic carbon are determined using an inverse model based on bulk carbon isotope signatures and the abundances and distributions of long‐chain n‐alkane plant wax biomarkers in suspended sediments collected over a range of discharges. Despite landcover differences and contrasting bulk particulate organic carbon (POC) signatures, the increase of soil‐sourced organic carbon with runoff is similar in all three studied catchments. This apparent existence of common processes implies that export fluxes of soil organic carbon may be extrapolated to similar catchments. Overall, our analysis shows that runoff‐driven soil erosion in these alpine headwater streams is responsible for the export of at least 0.3 to 0.8 gC m−2 yr−1 as POC. Our study also shows that despite a significant variability in isotopic and molecular POC signatures at low runoff, all three catchments show a convergence of these signatures at higher discharges. Suspended sediment samples collected at above‐average runoff are hence most representative of overall endmember contributions. Plain Language Summary: Rivers are the "arteries" of the global organic carbon cycle as they allow for the transport of organic carbon between different reservoirs such as the biosphere, the hydrosphere, the atmosphere, and the geosphere. To better understand how organic carbon is harvested from landscapes, we use the geochemical signatures of particulate organic carbon transported in three small (<2 km) Swiss rivers to fingerprint its provenance. We are interested in how this provenance may change depending on the river discharge as this may bias typical estimates that rely on limited samples and may further reveal the mechanisms responsible for carbon mobilization. We find that at low discharges, the provenance of organic carbon in these catchments is highly variable. As runoff increases, the geochemical signatures of particulate organic carbon converge toward a well‐defined endmember mixture. Overall, we also find that the contribution of soil‐sourced organic carbon increases significantly with discharge and at a similar rate in all three catchments despite different landcover. This study suggests that rainfall and runoff are the main mechanisms of soil‐derived carbon mobilization in these pre‐alpine catchments. Key Points: The composition of suspended sediment is variable at low discharges, but converges toward a defined endmember mixture as runoff increasesSoil organic carbon export increases with runoff at a similar rate in all studied catchments indicating common mobilization processesRunoff‐driven soil erosion in the studied rivers is responsible for the export of ca. 0.3–0.8 tC km−2 yr−1 as particulate organic carbon [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX) is a powerful technique that exploits X‐ray free‐electron lasers to determine the structure of macromolecules at room temperature. Despite the impressive exposition of structural details with this novel crystallographic approach, the methods currently available to introduce crystals into the path of the X‐ray beam sometimes exhibit serious drawbacks. Samples requiring liquid injection of crystal slurries consume large quantities of crystals (at times up to a gram of protein per data set), may not be compatible with vacuum configurations on beamlines or provide a high background due to additional sheathing liquids present during the injection. Proposed and characterized here is the use of an immiscible inert oil phase to supplement the flow of sample in a hybrid microfluidic 3D‐printed co‐flow device. Co‐flow generation is reported with sample and oil phases flowing in parallel, resulting in stable injection conditions for two different resin materials experimentally. A numerical model is presented that adequately predicts these flow‐rate conditions. The co‐flow generating devices reduce crystal clogging effects, have the potential to conserve protein crystal samples up to 95% and will allow degradation‐free light‐induced time‐resolved SFX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various clinical studies have provided estimates of life expectancy of patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) from outpatient clinics, but whether these apply to community‐dwelling individuals at home or in primary care is uncertain. Methods: Within the population‐based Rotterdam Study, we studied life expectancy with and without dementia in 648 community‐dwelling persons with MCI and 6410 without MCI. Participants aged 60 years and older were assessed for MCI at baseline (2002–2014) and subsequently followed for the onset of dementia and death. We used multistate life tables to determine age‐specific life expectancy with and without dementia by sex, educational attainment, and MCI subtype. Results: Total life expectancy for MCI ranged from 21.4 years (95% CI: 19.0–23.6) at age 60 to 2.6 years (1.6–3.6) at age 95. With advancing age, an increasing proportion of these years was lived with dementia (2.9 years [1.8–4.0] at age 60; 1.2 [0.2–2.2] at age 95). Women and higher educated individuals lived longer and lived more years with dementia. No differences in total life expectancy were observed by MCI subtype, although individuals with amnestic MCI lived a larger proportion of those years with dementia. Conclusions: Prognosis of MCI, in terms of life years lived with and without dementia, is more favorable in the general population than described in prior clinical observations, due likely to a substantial proportion of individuals with MCI in the clinic not seeking medical attention in an earlier stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fiber‐reinforced polymers are widely used as lightweight materials in aircraft, automobiles, wind turbine blades, and sports products. Despite the beneficial weight reduction achieved in such applications, these composites often suffer from poor recyclability and limited geometries. 3D printing of liquid crystal polymers into complex‐shaped all‐fiber materials is a promising approach to tackle these issues and thus increase the sustainability of current lightweight structures. Here, we report a spin‐printing technology for the manufacturing of recyclable and strong all‐fiber lightweight materials. All‐fiber architectures are created by combining thick print lines and thin spun fibers as reinforcing elements in bespoke orientations. Through controlled extrusion experiments and theoretical analyses, we systematically study the spinning process and establish criteria for the generation of thin fibers and laminates with unprecedented mechanical properties. The potential of the technology is further illustrated by creating complex structures with unique all‐fiber architectures and mechanical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objectives of the work presented in this paper were to (1) implement a robust‐optimization method for deliverable mixed‐beam radiotherapy (MBRT) plans within a previously developed MBRT planning framework; (2) perform an experimental validation of the delivery of robust‐optimized MBRT plans; and (3) compare PTV‐based and robust‐optimized MBRT plans in terms of target dose robustness and organs at risk (OAR) sparing for clinical head and neck and brain patient cases. Methods: A robust‐optimization method, which accounts for translational setup errors, was implemented within a previously developed treatment planning framework for MBRT. The framework uses a hybrid direct aperture optimization method combining column generation and simulated annealing. A robust plan was developed and then delivered to an anthropomorphic head phantom using the Developer Mode of a TrueBeam linac. Planar dose distributions were measured and compared to the planned dose. Robust‐optimized and PTV‐based plans were developed for three clinical patient cases consisting of two head and neck cases and one brain case. The plans were compared in terms of the robustness to 5 mm shifts of the target volume dose as well as in terms of OAR sparing. Results: Using a gamma criterion of 3%/2 mm and a dose threshold of 10%, the agreement between film measurements and dose calculations was better than 97.7% for the total plan and better than 95.5% for the electron component of the plan. For the two head and neck patient cases, the average clinical target volume (CTV) dose homogeneity index (V95%–V107%) over all the considered setup error scenarios was on average 19% lower for the PTV‐based plans and it had a larger standard deviation. The robust‐optimized plans achieved, on average, a 20% reduction in the OAR doses compared to the PTV‐based plans. For the brain patient case, the CTV dose homogeneity index was similar for the two plans, while the OAR doses were 22% lower, on average, for the robust‐optimized plan. No clear trend in terms of electron contributions was found across the three patient cases, although robust‐optimized plans tended toward higher electron beam energies. Conclusions: A framework for robust optimization of deliverable MBRT plans has been developed and validated. PTV‐based MBRT were found to not be robust to setup errors, while the dose delivered by the robust‐optimized plans were clinically acceptable for all considered error scenarios and had better OAR sparing. This study shows that the robust optimization is a promising alternative to conventional PTV margins for MBRT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photobiocatalysis is an alternative approach in synthesis that has received much attention in the recent years. Due to the youth of the topic, only few reactor systems are commercially available. To allow a parallel parameter‐screening approach as often used in the optimization of biocatalytic processes, a photoreactor was developed that can illuminate up to 24 samples at well‐defined reaction conditions. The device's optical features and temperature regulation have been thoroughly characterized and its application was demonstrated in four examples, specifically three photobiocatalytic and one photocatalytic process: (i) Light‐dependent decarboxylation using a photodecarboxylase; (ii) Reduction of protochlorophyllide using a protochlorophyllide oxidoreductase; (iii) Photosynthetic oxygen production performed by cyanobacteria; and (iv) (−)‐Riboflavin‐catalyzed (E/Z)‐isomerization of cinnamic acid derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thinning patterns of debris‐covered glaciers in High Mountain Asia are not well understood. Here we calculate the effect of supraglacial ice cliffs on the mass balance of all glaciers in a Himalayan catchment, using a process‐based ice cliff melt model. We show that ice cliffs are responsible for higher than expected thinning rates of debris‐covered glacier tongues, leading to an underestimation of their ice mass loss of 17% ± 4% in the catchment if not considered. We also show that cliffs do enhance melt where other processes would suppress it, that is, at high elevations, or where debris is thick, and that they contribute relatively more to glacier mass loss if oriented north. Our approach provides a key contribution to our understanding of the mass losses of debris‐covered glaciers, and a new quantification of their catchment wide melt and mass balance. Plain Language Summary: A significant part of glacier ice in High Mountain Asia is covered with debris, which substantially complicates the response of these glaciers to a warming climate. Projections of future glacier change are uncertain because melt and evolution of debris‐covered glaciers are poorly understood. Recent research indicates that ice cliffs on debris‐covered glaciers act as hot spots for melt and may contribute to anomalously high glacier mass losses. This study calculates how ice cliffs impact the mass balance of debris‐covered glaciers in an entire catchment in the Nepalese Himalayas (Langtang Valley), using a model resolving cliffs melt and evolution mechanisms, high resolution topographic data, direct meteorological measurements, and satellite‐based estimates of the total glacier mass balance. We show that the mass loss of debris‐covered glacier tongues in the catchment would be underestimated by 17% ± 4% if ice cliffs are neglected. We conclude that ice cliffs do enhance melt where other processes would suppress it, that is, high up on the glacier, or where the debris layer is thick. By providing for the first time estimates of the catchment‐wide effect of cliffs on debris‐covered glaciers, this study represents a step forward in understanding their mass balance, and thus, their dynamics and surface evolution. Key Points: We use a numerical model to produce the first catchment‐scale study of ice cliff backwasting and contribution to glacier mass lossIn the study catchment ice cliffs cover 2.1% ± 0.6% of debris‐covered tongues but cause 17% ± 4% of their annual ice lossWe found that cliffs enhance melt where other processes would suppress it, that is, at high elevations or where debris is thick [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to evaluate the fit of a Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT) curriculum implemented within a community organization and inform possible adaptations to fit the mental health difficulties of high‐risk Latina young mothers. The PRECEDE–PROCEED implementation framework guided the assessment and results. Focus groups were conducted with high‐risk Latina young mothers and staff members to assess the priority mental health problems, environmental stressors and factors contributing and maintaining these difficulties, and existing resources that could be leveraged to address them. Latina young mothers experience a variety of mental health needs and immigration and interpersonal‐related stressors. The organization's existing CBT curriculum was found to be feasible and a good fit for the target population. Proposed minor adaptations included a focus on parenting. Results support the robust effects of CBT interventions, including when delivered by paraprofessionals to a high‐risk population in a low‐resource community setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hierarchical pore structures exhibit morphological features on several length scales, which govern important materials properties in catalysis, such as catalytic activity, diffusivity or selectivity. Correlative tomography offers unique opportunities for a comprehensive and scale‐bridging 3D characterization of such complex pore morphologies, which is crucial to further optimize materials design and synthesis routines. This study explores the capabilities of correlative 360° electron tomography (ET) and lab‐based nano X‐ray computed tomography (Nano‐CT) enabling 3D analyses of volumes of up to (60 µm)³ with down to nm resolution, as demonstrated for zeolite particles with embedded macropores. By first applying the two techniques to the same particle the higher resolution and fidelity of ET are used to improve the segmentation of pore space in the Nano‐CT reconstruction. Extended statistical relevance and access to interparticle pore space are obtained from reconstructions of larger particle agglomerates, using the large‐field‐of‐view mode of the Nano‐CT. The presented correlative approach enables real space analyses of important pore characteristics for comparison with complementary pore characterization techniques. Moreover, by investigating samples from different stages of the synthesis, 360°‐ET and Nano‐CT provide unique insights into the formation mechanism of porous materials, as demonstrated for the steam‐assisted crystallization of the macroporous zeolite particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of unusual sialic acid analogs were prepared using a semi‐synthetic strategy. Truncation of natural N‐acetylneuraminic acid was followed by diastereoselective carbon backbone reconstruction using Barbier‐type carboligations as well as different functional group interconversions, which provided access to a variety of functional motifs in the terminal carbon backbone, including examples of saturated and unsaturated, linear and branched alkyl chains, partially deoxygenated sialic acids, sialic diacids and a first truncated legionaminic acid analog. The synthetic sialic acid probes were studied for nucleotide activation by the CMP‐sialic acid synthetase from Neisseria meningitidis using a universal pH‐shift assay for kinetic analysis. One‐pot enzymatic nucleotide activation and sialyltransfer to lactose was performed using a selection of five probes together with an engineered α2,3‐sialyltransferase from Photobacterium phosphoreum to furnish five new‐to‐nature analogs of the GM3 trisaccharide, which were finally utilized to test the substrate tolerance of two bacterial sialidases. The obtained set of sialic acid analogs and neo‐sialocojugates provides interesting opportunities for further glycobiology studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous materials are useful as lightweight structures, bone substitutes, and thermal insulators, but exhibit poor mechanical properties compared to their dense counterparts. Biological materials such as bone and bamboo are able to circumvent this trade‐off between porosity and mechanical performance by combining pores at multiple length scales. Inspired by these biological architectures, a manufacturing platform that allows for the fabrication of Al2O3 foams and Al2O3/Al composites with hierarchical porosity and enhanced mechanical properties is developed. Macroscale pores are formed through the assembly of aluminum particles around templating air bubbles in wet foams, whereas the thermal oxidation of the metal particles above 800 °C generates porosity at the micrometer scale. After elucidating the mechanism of pore formation under different sintering conditions at the microscale, the mechanical performance of the resulting hierarchical foams using compression experiments and finite element simulations is evaluated. Porous materials manufactured via this simple approach are found to reach unparalleled mechanical properties with near‐zero sintering shrinkage and minimum loss in mechanical strength. The ability to produce macroscopic objects with ultrahigh strength at porosities up to 95% makes this an attractive manufacturing technology for the fabrication of high‐performance lightweight structures or advanced thermal and acoustic insulators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is increasing demand for sustainable pest management to reduce harmful effects of pesticides on the environment and human health. For pest aphids, biological control with parasitoid wasps provides a welcome alternative, particularly in greenhouses. However, aphids are frequently infected with the heritable bacterial endosymbiont Hamiltonella defensa, which increases resistance to parasitoids and thereby hampers biological control. Using the black bean aphid (Aphis fabae) and its main parasitoid Lysiphlebus fabarum, we tested whether prior adaptation of parasitoids can improve the control of symbiont‐protected pests. We had parasitoid lines adapted to two different strains of H. defensa by experimental evolution, as well as parasitoids evolved on H. defensa‐free aphids. We compared their ability to control caged aphid populations comprising 60% unprotected and 40% H. defensa‐protected aphids, with both H. defensa strains present in the populations. Parasitoids that were not adapted to H. defensa had virtually no effect on aphid population dynamics compared to parasitoid‐free controls, but one of the adapted lines and a mixture of both adapted lines controlled aphids successfully, strongly benefitting plant growth. Selection by parasitoids altered aphid population composition in a very specific manner. Aphid populations became dominated by H. defensa‐protected aphids in the presence of parasitoids, and each adapted parasitoid line selected for the H. defensa strain it was not adapted to. This study shows, for the first time, that prior adaptation of parasitoids improves biological control of symbiont‐protected pests, but the high specificity of parasitoid counter‐resistance may represent a challenge for its implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the capabilities of a correlative tomography approach combining laboratory nano X‐ray computed tomography, focused ion‐beam sectioning, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy are utilized for the characterization of multilayered oxide scales of Co‐base superalloys regarding their 3D morphology and chemical composition. The combination of complementary 3D imaging techniques allows for a precise and reliable segmentation of the pore space, oxide precipitates, and different phases of the initial material. Such information is instrumental to a microscopic understanding of oxidation in this new class of superalloys and key to improvement of oxidation resistance in the next‐generation high‐temperature materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Having a job constitutes one of the most potent means of attaining 'masculine' goals such as status, success, and material rewards. In the present research, we examine whether masculinity, both as a country‐level value and an individual orientation, moderates the relationship between job insecurity and job attitudes. In Study 1, we draw on cross‐cultural data of 20,988 employees from 17 countries. We find that job insecure individuals from countries with higher masculinity values show stronger decrements in job satisfaction (but not commitment). Shedding light on the underlying mechanism, we show that the moderating effect of masculinity is transmitted through two social job characteristics, perceived supervisor interpersonal justice and coworker support. We then constructively replicate the moderating effect of masculinity in Study 2. In a one‐country sample of 319 employees, individual masculinity orientations likewise strengthen the negative relationship between job insecurity and job satisfaction. Our research highlights that country‐level and individual masculinity orientations yield comparable effects in the job insecurity appraisal process, and provides insight into how cultural values can be enacted at the individual level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]