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Game‐related assessments (GRAs) are increasingly gaining interest in practice and research. However, little is known about how recruiters view these methods. This study examined recruiters' (N = 158) reasons for using GRAs, the influence of their characteristics on their use of these methods, and recruiters' perceptions of GRAs compared to those of potential applicants (N = 144). Results indicated that perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, innovativeness in IT, and video game pursuit partly explained recruiters' intentions to use GRAs, which then predicted actual usage. The expected positive impact on the organizational image and applicant reactions were among the most important reasons for using GRAs. Recruiters and potential applicants perceived GRAs as more enjoyable and modern than traditional assessment methods. Practitioner points: Game‐related assessment (GRA) is a new field in personnel selection that is gaining increasing interest among researchers and organizations, but there is limited research on how recruiters perceive these methods.This study contributes to our understanding of how recruiters view GRAs and whether their perceptions differ from those of potential applicants.Recruiters' perceived ease of use and usefulness of GRAs and their innovativeness in IT and video game pursuit explained intentions to use GRAs, which in turn predicted their actual usage.The main reasons for recruiters' intentions to use GRAs are the impact on the organizational image and implementation time.Recruiters view computer‐based assessments more positively than applicants whereas the opposite was true for paper–pencil tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study reports our experiences with systematic retinal screening in Denmark through optometrists with access to tele-ophthalmological services before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We evaluated an optometrist-based retinal screening system with a referral option for tele-ophthalmological service by a consultant ophthalmologist within the time period of August 1, 2018 to September 30, 2023. The optometrist collected patient history, refraction, best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, basic slit-lamp examination, 4-in-1 visual field report, and retinal imaging using color fundus 45° photography. Tele-ophthalmological services were provided by consultant ophthalmologists. Within pre-defined periods of pre-COVID-19, COVID-19, and post-COVID-19, we evaluated the rate of referrals to the tele-ophthalmological service, diagnoses made, and referrals to the public healthcare system. Results: A total of 1,142,028 unique individuals, which corresponded to 19.1% of the entire population of Denmark, underwent screening by the optometrists; 50,612 (4.4%) of these individuals were referred to the tele-ophthalmological examination by consultant ophthalmologists. A referral for further ophthalmic examination, either at hospital or at an ophthalmic practice, was made for 10,300 individuals (20.4% of those referred for tele-ophthalmology, corresponding to 0.9% of the population screened). The referral rate from the screening to the tele-ophthalmological service increased from before COVID-19 (3.4%) to during COVID-19 (4.3%) and further after COVID-19 (6.4%). This increase coincided with an increasing prevalence of conditions seen in the tele-ophthalmological service. Conclusion: During a period of 5 years, 19.1% of the entire population of Denmark underwent retinal screening. This provided an adjunctive health service during a period of severe strain on the public healthcare system, while limiting the number of excessive referrals to the public healthcare system. Temporal trends illustrated an increased pattern of use of a large-scale tele-ophthalmological system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is increasing attention to storification of assessments (i.e., embedding a storyline into a non‐storified assessment) in research and practice and to gamified and game‐based assessment in general. However, there is a surprising lack of agreement and of recommendations regarding what level of fantasy of the storyline one should choose for the storification from the perspective of applicant reactions. A distinction is typically made between fantasy (e.g., fighting aliens) and realistic (e.g., workday simulations) storylines, with both choices having their advantages and disadvantages. In this study, a sample of 195 participants was shown either a storified realistic test, a storified fantasy test, or a non‐storified test. Afterwards, they rated various applicant reaction measures. Both storified assessments were rated equally positively on perceived modernity of the organization and enjoyment but the storified realistic test was superior to the storified fantasy test in terms of perceived job‐relatedness, procedural fairness, organizational attractiveness, and clarity of work activity. Thus, the level of fantasy of a storyline in a storified assessment plays an important role for applicant reaction variables, whereby the overall pattern of results showed that the storified realistic test was rated most favorably, followed by the non‐storified test, and the storified fantasy assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusions\nKEY POINTSHigh melanoma rates in Queensland, Australia suggest that sun protection campaign message content may require revision. The aim of this experimental study was to explore young Queensland adults’ sun-related exposure and knowledge level, before investigating the effectiveness of five health text messages at improving sun protection intentions.Ninety-five young adults aged 17 to 24 years participated in the study. Most content was modelled on Protection Motivation Theory. The texts allowed for the comparison of fear appeals with and without efficacy messages, health-versus appearance-based messages, and the exploration of understudied, appearance-based message content alluding to melanoma surgery scarring.Proportionally, significantly more females (60.34%) sunbathed compared to males [26.47%, χ2 (1, n = 92) = 8.55, p = .003, phi = -.33], and females (M = 16.03) had significantly greater knowledge levels than males [M = 12.81, t(89), −.3.99, p < .001, η2 = .01]. There was no difference between health and appearance-based messages on participants’ sun protection intentions as assessed by the Protection Motivation Theory χ2 (5, n = 94) = 2.97, p = .704.Future research should contribute to the debates surrounding fear appeals and health-versus appearance-based messages with different communication modalities. Health promotion campaigns on sun protection should target message content to audiences.What this topic adds: Text messages may not be robust enough to distinguish between the effects of appearance and health-based information in determining sun-protective behaviours.Knowledge about melanoma does not deter young females from sunbathing.More robust health communication approaches than health text messages are required for testing the Protection Motivation Theory in predicting sun protective behaviours in samples of young adults with high health literacy.Text messages may not be robust enough to distinguish between the effects of appearance and health-based information in determining sun-protective behaviours.Knowledge about melanoma does not deter young females from sunbathing.More robust health communication approaches than health text messages are required for testing the Protection Motivation Theory in predicting sun protective behaviours in samples of young adults with high health literacy.What is already known about this topic: Queensland Australia is one of the most melanoma susceptible regions of the world.Many young Australian adults are not practicing sun safety.Appearance-based approaches are bett er at persuading younger people to protect against the sun than health-based ones.Queensland Australia is one of the most melanoma susceptible regions of the world.Many young Australian adults are not practicing sun safety.Appearance-based approaches are bett er at persuading younger people to protect against the sun than health-based ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Two large neutral amino acids (LNAA), tryptophan and tyrosine, are precursors to cerebral neurotransmitters and are involved in cognitive function. Higher levels of LNAA in young adults are associated with improved cognition, although these associations appear to reverse over time. Given that exposure to metabolic syndrome (MetS) may induce premature cognitive aging, the current project aims to fill the gap in the literature by examining the effect of LNAA on cognitive performance in midlife adults with metabolic risks. Methods: Eighty-eight adults, ages 40–61 years, participated in this cross-sectional study. LNAA metabolites were quantified, MetS components were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography, and MetS components were assessed in the laboratory. Composite verbal memory and executive functioning scores were computed using principal component analysis. We used linear regression models to test the interaction between LNAA and MetS while covarying for sex, age, and education. Results: The kynurenine/tryptophan ratio moderated the relation between MetS and verbal memory, even after adjusting for relevant covariates. Tyrosine metabolites were not significant moderators of the association between MetS and executive functioning. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the detected weaker memory performance in adults with a high number of MetS components may be related to relative tryptophan depletion and possible decreases in serotonin production. Further investigation is warranted to examine the potential role of LNAA in associations between cognitive performance and metabolic risks over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is crucial to include a wide range of the population in clinical trials for the outcome to be applicable in real-world settings. Existing literature indicates that under-served groups, including disabled people, have been excluded from participating in clinical trials without justification. Exclusion from clinical trials exacerbates disparities in healthcare and diminishes the benefits for excluded populations. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate potential obstacles that prevent disabled people from participating in clinical trials in the United Kingdom (UK). Methods: The study was carried out through an explanatory sequential mixed methods design. The Imperial Clinical Trials Unit devised and implemented an online questionnaire-based survey (with open/closed-ended questions) and an online focus group discussion. The target population were disabled people, family members/carers of disabled people and staff involved in clinical trials, whereupon the sample was recruited by convenience sampling methods via posters and emails through various networks. The Qualtrics XM survey system was used as the host platform for the online survey, and Microsoft Teams was used for an online focus group discussion. The focus group discussion was conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the themes identified from the survey responses. We analysed responses to the survey via descriptive analysis and used thematic analysis to synthesise the free-text answers from the survey and focus group discussion. Results: We received 45 responses to the survey questionnaire and 5 disabled people took part in a focus group discussion. Our findings highlighted the differences between the perspectives of researchers and those "being researched" and different types of barriers experienced by disabled people: opportunity barriers (inadequate recruitment strategy and ambiguous eligibility criteria), awareness barriers (perception of disability) and acceptance/refusal barriers (available support and adjustment, and sharing of trial results). Conclusion: Our findings support perspectives drawn from the Ford Framework regarding the need to consider all barriers, not just up to the point of enrolment into trials but also beyond the point of inclusion in clinical trials. We support calls for the introduction of legislation on including disabled people in clinical trials, implementation of industry/community-wide participatory approaches and the development of guidelines, a combined public–private approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As more schools adopt inclusive practices, the need for schools to understand how students perceive these practices grows. The current study explores K–12 students' perceptions of co-teaching through a systematic review and thematic analysis of the literature. Through an analysis of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research from journals and dissertations, this review shows the importance of attending to contextual variables surrounding co-teaching and how these may serve as mediating factors for students' perceptions. Using an open-ended date range for studies and including gray literature allowed for robust findings that synthesize comprehensively how students view co-teaching. Key findings include students' perceived success academically and preference for co-teaching. Additionally, results indicated a pattern of students' negative perceptions of co-teaching when teachers experienced many professional demands. However, the lack of reported socially constructed contextual variables, such as race and gender, limited insights into how students make meaning of co-teaching. On the basis of these findings, we discuss implications for research, policy, and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a game‐based assessment (GBA) measuring cognitive ability for use in personnel selection and examined its construct‐related validity. Moreover, applicant reactions toward this GBA were compared with a paper‐pencil‐based ability test. Both assessment tools were designed to measure verbal, numerical, and figural ability. N = 183 participants completed the GBA, the paper‐pencil test, and questions capturing applicant reactions and personality. We found a strong positive correlation of 0.51 between the overall GBA and paper‐pencil test scores, showing evidence for its construct‐related validity. Applicant reactions toward the GBA were consistently worse compared with the paper‐pencil test. Furthermore, males and individuals with more video game experience held more positive perceptions than females and individuals with less video game experience. Practitioner points: Game‐based assessment (GBA) is an innovative field of personnel selection that is increasingly used in practice, although empirical evidence on psychometric properties of GBAs and on applicant reactions is still scarce to date.The present study found a strong correlation between the GBA and a traditional intelligence test, indicating that a GBA can provide a valid measurement of cognitive ability in the context of personnel selection.Applicant reactions toward the GBA were consistently worse compared with a paper‐pencil test measuring the same cognitive abilities.Applicant reactions differed between males and females, suggesting that further research is needed to investigate relevant design elements of GBAs affecting their psychometric properties and applicant reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mental imagery (MI) is the ability to generate visual phenomena in the absence of sensory input. MI is often likened to visual working memory (VWM): the ability to maintain and manipulate visual representations. How MI is recruited during VWM is yet to be established. In a modified orientation change-discrimination task, we examined how behavioral (proportion correct) and neural (contralateral delay activity [CDA]) correlates of precision and capacity map onto subjective ratings of vividness and number of items in MI within a VWM task. During the maintenance period, 17 participants estimated the vividness of their MI or the number of items held in MI while they were instructed to focus on either precision or capacity of their representation and to retain stimuli at varying set sizes (1, 2, and 4). Vividness and number ratings varied over set sizes; however, subjective ratings and behavioral performance correlated only for vividness rating at set size 1. Although CDA responded to set size as was expected, CDA did not reflect subjective reports on high and low vividness and on nondivergent (reported the probed number of items in mind) or divergent (reported number of items diverged from probed) rating trials. Participants were more accurate in low set sizes compared with higher set sizes and in coarse (45°) orientation changes compared with fine (15°) orientation changes. We failed to find evidence for a relationship between the subjective sensory experience of precision and capacity of MI and the precision and capacity of VWM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a tissue ablation technology that kills cells with short electrical pulses that do not induce thermal damage, thereby preserving the extracellular matrix. Preclinical research suggests that IRE may be developed as a tool for regenerative surgery by clearing existing host cells within a solid organ and creating a supportive niche for new cell engraftment. We hypothesized that hepatocytes transplanted by injection into the portal circulation would preferentially engraft within liver parenchyma pretreated with IRE. Transgene-positive β-galactosidase-expressing hepatocytes were isolated from B6.129S7-Gt(ROSA)26Sor/J (ROSA26) mice and transplanted by intrasplenic injection into wild-type littermates that received liver IRE pretreatment or control sham treatment. Engraftment of donor hepatocytes in recipient livers was determined by X-gal staining. Significantly higher numbers of X-gal+ donor hepatocytes engrafted in the livers of IRE-treated mice as compared to sham-treated mice. X-gal+ hepatocytes persisted in IRE-treated recipients for at least 11 d post-transplant and formed clusters. Immunostaining demonstrated the presence of HNF4A/Ki67/β-galactosidase triple-positive cells within IRE-ablation zones, indicating that transplanted hepatocytes preferentially engrafted in IRE-treated liver parenchyma and proliferated. IRE pretreatment of the liver increased engraftment of transplanted hepatocytes within the IRE-ablation zone. IRE treatment of the host liver may be developed clinically as a strategy to increase engraftment efficiency of primary hepatocytes and/or hepatocytes derived from stem cells in cell transplant therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we summarize key findings from 20 years of research conducted at the intersection of developmental psychology and juvenile justice in the United States. We predominantly examine data from two large-scale, multisite longitudinal studies involving justice-system-involved adolescents—the Pathways to Desistance study and the Crossroads study. Topics of discussion include predictors of offending and desistance from crime; youth outcomes and psychosocial needs; and emerging research, programs, and policy initiatives. First, individual-level (e.g., age, psychosocial maturity) and contextual-level (e.g., antisocial peers, exposure to violence) risk factors associated with offending are explored. Second, we discuss short-term and long-term outcomes of justice-system contact for youths engaging in moderate offenses. We highlight main findings from the Crossroads study indicating that youths who are sanctioned by the justice system at their first arrest have worse outcomes than youths who are diverted from formal processing. Additionally, we discuss the high prevalence of youths' exposure to violence and mental health disorders as well as the differential treatment of youths of color in the justice system. Third, we extend the conversation to justice-system-involved young adults and discuss emerging, innovative legal solutions, including young adult courts. Last, we discuss real-world implications of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal variation in habitat use and animal behavior can alter host contact patterns with potential consequences for pathogen transmission dynamics. The endangered Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) has experienced significant pathogen-induced mortality and continues to be at risk of future epidemics. Prior research has found increased panther movement in Florida's dry versus wet seasons, which may affect panther population connectivity and seasonally increase potential pathogen transmission. Our objective was to determine if Florida panthers are more spatially connected in dry seasons relative to wet seasons, and test if identified connectivity differences resulted in divergent predicted epidemic dynamics. We leveraged extensive panther telemetry data to construct seasonal panther home range overlap networks over an 11 year period. We tested for differences in network connectivity, and used observed network characteristics to simulate transmission of a broad range of pathogens through dry and wet season networks. We found that panthers were more spatially connected in dry seasons than wet seasons. Further, these differences resulted in a trend toward larger and longer pathogen outbreaks when epidemics were initiated in the dry season. Our results demonstrate that seasonal variation in behavioral patterns—even among largely solitary species—can have substantial impacts on epidemic dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal variation in habitat use and animal behavior can alter host contact patterns with potential consequences for pathogen transmission dynamics. The endangered Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) has experienced significant pathogen-induced mortality and continues to be at risk of future epidemics. Prior research has found increased panther movement in Florida's dry versus wet seasons, which may affect panther population connectivity and seasonally increase potential pathogen transmission. Our objective was to determine if Florida panthers are more spatially connected in dry seasons relative to wet seasons, and test if identified connectivity differences resulted in divergent predicted epidemic dynamics. We leveraged extensive panther telemetry data to construct seasonal panther home range overlap networks over an 11 year period. We tested for differences in network connectivity, and used observed network characteristics to simulate transmission of a broad range of pathogens through dry and wet season networks. We found that panthers were more spatially connected in dry seasons than wet seasons. Further, these differences resulted in a trend toward larger and longer pathogen outbreaks when epidemics were initiated in the dry season. Our results demonstrate that seasonal variation in behavioral patterns—even among largely solitary species—can have substantial impacts on epidemic dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal variation in habitat use and animal behavior can alter host contact patterns with potential consequences for pathogen transmission dynamics. The endangered Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) has experienced significant pathogen-induced mortality and continues to be at risk of future epidemics. Prior research has found increased panther movement in Florida's dry versus wet seasons, which may affect panther population connectivity and seasonally increase potential pathogen transmission. Our objective was to determine if Florida panthers are more spatially connected in dry seasons relative to wet seasons, and test if identified connectivity differences resulted in divergent predicted epidemic dynamics. We leveraged extensive panther telemetry data to construct seasonal panther home range overlap networks over an 11 year period. We tested for differences in network connectivity, and used observed network characteristics to simulate transmission of a broad range of pathogens through dry and wet season networks. We found that panthers were more spatially connected in dry seasons than wet seasons. Further, these differences resulted in a trend toward larger and longer pathogen outbreaks when epidemics were initiated in the dry season. Our results demonstrate that seasonal variation in behavioral patterns—even among largely solitary species—can have substantial impacts on epidemic dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) requires a combination of medical, surgical, and lifestyle interventions. Intense pulsed light (IPL) and lasers have been reported to be useful. The aim of this review is to find the evidence supporting IPL and laser treatment of HS and to provide guidance for the management of specific HS lesions. We searched PubMed and Web of Science for "laser" and "hidradenitis suppurativa" on April 6, 2022. Inclusion criteria were >10 patients, reported follow-up, English language, and human subjects with a diagnosis of HS. A total of 724 articles were screened, but only 17 studies qualified for inclusion (IPL (n = 4), Nd:YAG (n = 6), CO 2 laser (n = 6), and intralesional treatment (n = 2). The majority of the studies had a low (n = 10) or moderate (n = 7) evidence level. Treatment effect was noticed in studies using IPL and Nd:YAG (hair reduction). CO 2 laser was used for surgery with a success rate ranging from 70.7% to 96.7%. CO 2 laser is useful for surgery of stationary HS lesions, but it is difficult to draw a conclusion on the use of IPL and Nd:YAG (hair reduction) as the studies were too heterogeneous to perform a meta-analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Many kidney transplant (KT) centers decline patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥40 kg/m2. This study's aim was to evaluate KT outcomes according to recipient BMI. Methods: We performed a single‐center, retrospective review of adult KTs comparing BMI ≥40 patients (n = 84, BMI = 42 ± 2 kg/m2) to a matched BMI < 40 cohort (n = 84, BMI = 28 ± 5 kg/m2). Patients were matched for age, gender, race, diabetes, and donor type. Results: BMI ≥40 patients were on dialysis longer (5.2 ± 3.2 years vs. 4.1 ± 3.5 years, p =.03) and received lower kidney donor profile index (KDPI) kidneys (40 ± 25% vs. 53 ± 26%, p =.003). There were no significant differences in prevalence of delayed graft function, reoperations, readmissions, wound complications, patient survival, or renal function at 1 year. Long‐term graft survival was higher for BMI ≥40 patients, including after adjusting for KDPI (BMI ≥40: aHR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.09–2.9). BMI ≥40 patients had similar BMI change in the first year post‐transplant (delta BMI: BMI ≥ 40 +.9 ± 3.3 vs. BMI < 40 +1.1 ± 3.2, p =.59). Conclusions: Overall outcomes after KT were comparable in BMI ≥40 patients compared to a matched cohort with lower BMI with improved long‐term graft survival in obese patients. BMI‐based exclusion criteria for KT should be reexamined in favor of a more individualized approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Eating disorders (EDs) are serious mental illnesses with high mortality and relapse rates and carry significant societal and personal costs. Nevertheless, there are few evidence‐based treatments available. One aspect that makes treatment difficult is the high heterogeneity in symptom presentation. This heterogeneity makes it challenging for clinicians to identify pertinent treatment targets. Personalized treatment based on idiographic models may be well‐suited to address this heterogeneity, and, in turn, presumably improve treatment outcomes. Methods: In the current randomized controlled trial, participants will be randomly assigned to either 20 sessions of enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT‐E) or transdiagnostic network‐informed personalized treatment for EDs (T‐NIPT‐ED). Assessment of ED symptoms, clinical impairment, and quality of life will occur at pre‐, mid‐, posttreatment, and 1‐month follow‐up. Results: We will examine the acceptability and feasibility of T‐NIPT‐ED compared to CBT‐E. We also will test the initial clinical efficacy of T‐NIPT‐ED versus CBT‐E on clinical outcomes (i.e., ED symptoms and quality of life). Finally, we will test if the network‐identified precision targets are the mechanisms of change. Discussion: Ultimately, this research may inform the development and dissemination of evidence‐based personalized treatments for EDs and serve as an exemplar for personalized treatment development across the broader field of psychiatry. Public Significance: Current evidence‐based treatments for eating disorders result in low rates of recovery, especially for adults with AN. Our study aims to test the feasibility, acceptability, and clinical efficacy of a data‐driven, individualized approach to ED treatment, network‐informed personalized treatment, compared to the current evidence‐based treatment for EDs, Enhanced CBT. Findings have the potential to improve treatment outcomes for EDs by identifying and targeting core symptoms maintaining EDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in a shift from traditional, in‐person treatment to virtual treatment for eating disorders (EDs), with little knowledge about the relative efficacy of virtual formats. Method: In the current study, we examined baseline symptomatology and treatment outcomes of young adults in our virtual partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient program (PHP/IOP) for EDs, implemented shortly after the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic. We investigated outcomes on body mass index, ED symptoms, anxiety, ED‐related clinical impairment, and emotion regulation. Results: We found significant differences in ED symptomatology, ED‐related clinical impairment, and difficulties with emotion regulation at admission between participants in the virtual and in‐person versions of our PHP/IOP. Despite these differences, the results demonstrated that the degree of change from admission to discharge on these measures was comparable for both conditions. Discussion: These findings suggest that PHPs and IOPs are relatively effective in a virtual format. Providing effective virtual options across various levels of care will improve access to specialized treatment for EDs. Public Significance: (i) Participants in the virtual program reported less severe symptomatology at baseline, (ii) Participants in the virtual and in‐person programs experienced similar improvements, (iii) Virtual programs may be an effective option for young adults with eating disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The internationalization of basic education in the Philippines is crucial for fostering global competencies, enhancing intercultural understanding, and promoting the country's competitiveness in the rapidly globalizing world. This study aimed to investigate the readiness, challenges encountered, and lived experiences of teachers and school administrators towards internationalization in basic education in the selected public schools in Bohol and Tagbilaran City divisions for the school year 2022-2023. It employed a mixed-method research design, specifically explanatory-sequential or Quantitative-qualitative research. In the quantitative phase, the researcher used a survey method. In the qualitative phase, she conducted an interview. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Joint Display analysis was used to determine how the qualitative findings corroborated the quantitative results. The sample comprises 300 respondents from the Tagbilaran City and Bohol province Divisions. Findings revealed that schools were largely prepared in curriculum and student services aspects but lacked in areas such as teacher qualifications and facility upgrades. Participants emphasized the value of cultural awareness, flexible learning, and proficient teaching skills for globalization. Despite this, the study uncovered major obstacles like inadequate e-library and ICT services, institutional challenges, community issues, and less motivation of faculty members towards advanced education. These results offer insights for decisionmakers, school heads, and educators to improve school readiness for internationalization. Recommendations were proposed to enhance the readiness and address the concerns, issues, and gaps in the internationalization of basic education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doctoral training programs educate future practitioners, scholars, and researchers. They therefore are an important site of inquiry for critical school psychologists interested in interrogating and confronting the inequities that exist within the field. We conducted four focus groups with 15 Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color (BIWOC) students in various APA-accredited school psychology Ph.D. programs to understand how they experienced their programs. We argue that the programs delivered a hidden curriculum to the participants through various socializing, vicarious, and disciplinary events, in addition to the official curriculum delivered to all students. Data analysis indicated that the hidden curriculum was delivered in four settings and consisted of six lessons, including (a) you do not belong here, (b) you cannot be trusted, (c) you are on your own, (d) you are not safe here, (e) you are a token, and (f) you will only get performative allyship from us. We discuss each of these lessons and contemplate on ways in which programs and faculty can combat their deleterious impact on the students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid-flexible learning, also known as HyFlex, is an instructional approach that combines flexible course structure and hybrid learning. This allows students the option to attend class sessions in person or online. The purpose of this study was to assess the Digital Divide, Digital Equity, and Online Learning Engagement Among Selected College Students in Pamantasan ng Cabuyao. This attempted to measure the respondents' level of the digital divide, digital equity, and online learning engagement, and test their significant relationship. The findings showed that the respondents' level of the digital divide is very high, the level of digital equity is high and the level of online learning engagement is also high. Hypothesis testing revealed that the level of the digital divide and digital equity are the drivers of online learning engagement. This study is regarded as a helpful resource in bridging the digital divide and promoting digital equity and online learning engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the utilization of single-molecule fluorescence microscopy to in situ quantify the photo-oxidation reaction kinetics on g-C3N4. The wrinkle structure shows the highest reactivity and direct dissociation rate. The basal plane exhibits the highest affinity to reactants and products and indirect dissociation rate constant, followed by edges and wrinkles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An innovative microalgae harvesting technique using electroflocculation was carried out at different voltage treatments (4, 7, and 9 V) using a fabricated voltage regulator and compared with harvesting by electroflocculation at 12 V using a car battery to efficiently electroflocculate Tetraselmis tetrathele. This study was conducted to determine the ideal voltage settings that could improve the quality of harvested paste in terms of nutritional value and metal contamination for its later use in aquaculture. The use of 7 V achieved low Pb content producing the best harvest biomass (1.4 kg, 87 min) which is comparable to the harvest biomass (1.7 kg, 68 min) using a 12 V car battery. Storage of T. tetrathele paste is best done in a chiller (2 ± 1 °C) rather than a freezer (-20 ± -4 °C) for ease in reactivation and maintaining higher cell viability for later use as a starter in aquaculture. Storage in a chiller allows T. tetrathele paste to be resuspended after six months and used as a starter culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the importance of addressing patients' needs in topical psoriasis treatment. Previous studies have shown that many patients are dissatisfied with their treatment outcomes, and topical treatment can be inconvenient and may not align with patients' individual goals. The existing Patient Benefit Index (PBI) for psoriasis lacks specificity for topical treatment, and other patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) do not consider treatment effectiveness and the characteristics of topical treatments. The article introduces a new iteration of the PBI tailored toward topical treatment in adults with psoriasis (PBI-TOP), which includes specific treatment goals from patients' perspectives. A pilot validation study demonstrated that PBI-TOP exhibited good internal consistency and convergent validity. Further research is needed to explore the association of PBI-TOP scores with changes in other PROMs, and to include severe patients and subgroup analyses based on age and sex. An interpretability study assessment is also necessary before the PBI-TOP instrument can be fully utilized in daily practice. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Although wild ungulate populations are heavily monitored throughout Europe, we understand little of how parasites affect population dynamics, and there is no systematic, long-term monitoring of parasite diversity and parasite loads. Such monitoring is in part hampered by a lack of time- and cost-effective assay methodologies with high sensitivity and good taxonomic resolution. DNA metabarcoding has been successfully used to characterize the parasitic nemabiome with high taxonomic resolution in a variety of wild and domestic hosts. However, in order to implement this technique in large-scale, potentially non-invasive monitoring of gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes (GIN), protocol optimization is required to maximize biodiversity detection, whilst maintaining time- and cost-effectiveness. Methods: Faecal samples were collected from a wild moose population and GIN communities were characterized and quantified using both parasitological techniques (egg and larva counting) and DNA metabarcoding of the ITS2 region of rDNA. Three different isolation methods were compared that differed in the volume of starting material and cell lysis method. Results: Similar nematode faunas were recovered from all samples using both parasitological and metabarcoding methods, and the approaches were largely congruent. However, metabarcoding assays showed better taxonomic resolution and slightly higher sensitivity than egg and larvae counts. The metabarcoding was not strictly quantitative, but the proportion of target nematode sequences recovered was correlated with the parasitologically determined parasite load. Species detection rates in the metabarcoding assays were maximized using a DNA isolation method that included mechanical cell disruption and maximized the starting material volume. Conclusions: DNA metabarcoding is a promising technique for the non-invasive, large-scale monitoring of parasitic GINs in wild ungulate populations, owing to its high taxonomic resolution, increased assay sensitivity, and time- and cost-effectiveness. Although metabarcoding is not a strictly quantitative method, it may nonetheless be possible to create a management- and conservation-relevant index for the host parasite load from this data. To optimize the detection rates and time- and cost-effectiveness of metabarcoding assays, we recommend choosing a DNA isolation method that involves mechanical cell disruption and maximizes the starting material volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation explores the initial impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on live chat virtual reference services (VRS) in academic libraries and on user behaviors from March to December 2020 using Goffman's theoretical framework (1956, 1967, 1971). Data from 300 responses by academic librarians to two longitudinal online surveys and 28 semi‐structured interviews were quantitatively and qualitatively analyzed. Results revealed that academic librarians were well‐positioned to provide VRS as university information hubs during pandemic shutdowns. Qualitative analysis revealed that participants received gratitude for VRS help, but also experienced frustrations and angst with limited accessibility during COVID‐19. Participants reported changes including VRS volume, level of complexity, and question topics. Results reveal the range and frequency of new services with librarians striving to make personal connections with users through VRS, video consultations, video chat, and other strategies. Participants found it difficult to maintain these connections, coping through grit and mutual support when remote work became necessary. They adapted to challenges, including isolation, technology learning curves, and disrupted work routines. Librarians' responses chronicle their innovative approaches, fierce determination, emotional labor, and dedication to helping users and colleagues through this unprecedented time. Results have vital implications for the future of VRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) framework has gained widespread acceptance in toxicological disciplines as a tool for aiding chemical hazard assessment. Despite increased activity in AOP development, progress towards a high volume of fully endorsed AOPs has been slow, partly due to the challenging task of constructing complete AOPs according to the AOP Developer's Handbook. To facilitate greater uptake of new knowledge units onto the open-source AOP-wiki platform, a pragmatic approach was recently proposed. This approach involves considering Key Event Relationships (KERs) for individual development through systematic approaches, as they represent essential units of knowledge from which causality can be inferred; from low complexity test data to adverse outcomes in intact organisms. However, more broadly adopted harmonized methodologies for KER development would be desirable. Using the AOP Developer's Handbook as a guide, a KER linking 'decreased androgen receptor (AR) activity' with 'reduced anogenital distance (AGD)' was developed to demonstrate a methodology applicable for future developments of KERs requiring systematic literature retrieval approaches. • A detailed methodology for OECD-compliant development of Key Event Relationships. • Decreased anogenital distance in males is a scientifically supported adverse outcome. • Adverse outcome pathways should be developed to aid chemical risk assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates why and which types of college and research libraries (CRLs) are currently developing makerspaces (or an equivalent space) for their communities. Based on an online survey and phone interviews with a sample population of CRLs in New England, I found that 26 CRLs had or were in the process of developing a makerspace in this region. In addition, several other CRLs were actively promoting and diffusing the maker ethos. Of these libraries, most were motivated to promote open access to new technologies, literacies, and STEM-related knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term studies of population dynamics can provide insights into life history theory, population ecology, socioecology, conservation biology and wildlife management. Here we examine 25 years of population dynamics of western gorillas at Mbeli Bai, a swampy forest clearing in Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park, the Republic of Congo. The Mbeli population more than doubled from 101 to 226 gorillas during the study. After adjusting for a net influx of gorillas into the study population, the increase represents an inherent growth rate of 0.7% per year, with 95% confidence limits between -0.7% and 2.6%. The influx of gorillas mainly involved immigration of individuals into existing study groups (social dispersal), but it also included the appearance of a few previously unknown groups (locational dispersal). The average group size did not change significantly during the study, which is consistent with the possibility that western gorillas face socioecological constraints on group size, even when the population is increasing. We found no significant evidence of density dependence on female reproductive success or male mating competition. The distribution of gorillas among age/sex categories also did not change significantly, which suggests that the population had a stable age structure. Our results provide evidence of population stability or growth for some western gorillas (albeit within a small area). The results highlight the value of law enforcement, long-term monitoring, and protected areas; but they do not diminish the importance of improving conservation for this critically endangered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although researchers have explored the link between depression and executive functioning (EF), the influence of early-life environmental and relational instability on this association has not been comprehensively assessed in adolescents. This cross-sectional study examined whether unpredictability of home environment in childhood moderated the relationship between depression and EF in adolescents. Participants were 138 adolescents aged 13 to 17 years (72% female; 47.8% White; 47.1% Hispanic). Diagnostic status (major depression versus healthy control) and depression severity were assessed using psycho-diagnostic interviews and self-reports from parents and adolescents. Participants also completed the Questionnaire of Unpredictability in Childhood (QUIC). EF was assessed using self-report (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function, Second Edition; BRIEF2) and a battery of performance-based measures. Results showed that QUIC scores moderated the relationship between depression and BRIEF2 scores, such that high unpredictability was associated with poorer EF for adolescents exhibiting low depression severity. Participants with the highest levels of depression exhibited the poorest EF ratings, regardless of childhood unpredictability. Unpredictability was moderately associated with performance-based measures, but did not interact with depressive symptoms to predict complex performance-based EF. Recommendations include assessing for unpredictable childhood environment and acknowledging this risk factor for poor EF in youth with sub-threshold depression. Treatment implications are discussed with respect to family systems/parenting interventions, as mildly depressed adolescents growing up in unstable homes may be vulnerable to EF difficulties. Further, this study adds to the EF measurement literature by examining associations between self-report and performance-based EF instruments in a diverse sample of adolescents. Highlights: First investigation to examine how unpredictability of home environment moderates the link between depression and executive functioning (EF) in adolescents. High scores on childhood unpredictability were associated with poor EF for adolescents exhibiting low scores on depression severity. Adolescents with high depression scores exhibited poor EF regardless of childhood unpredictability. Methodology contributions include examining associations between self-report and performance-based EF measures. Early-life environment and parent-child relationships should be assessed to help guide clinical assessment and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research focused on the practices of teachers and parents of learners with special educational needs during pandemic employing descriptive-correlational research design. It specifically sought the demographic profile of the teachers and parent-respondents. Using purposive sampling, the respondents of the study consisted of 22 teachers and 26 parents from Academia De Santiago of Tarlac, and Angel Beats Play and Development Center, Manila, Philippines. The frequency count, percentage weighted mean, and correlation analysis were used to treat the data gathered from the survey-questionnaire. Results revealed that that the teacher-respondents "greatly encountered" behavioral problems and "encountered" cognitive development problems in handling LSENs; parent-respondents "encountered" both behavioral and cognitive development problems. There was a "great extent" of practices of teachers while "little extent" in parents' practices. There was a significant relationship between the demographic profile of the teacher-respondents and the extent of teachers' practices. Based from the significant findings drawn, this study recommends to upskill teachers' competencies in handling learners with special education needs. Finally, implementation of the action plan is hereby recommended to improve the behavioral and cognitive aspects of the learners and to further improve practices of teachers and parents of the home-schooled learners with special educational needs during a pandemic and its aftermath. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substance use among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) is associated with an increased risk of poor physical and mental health outcomes. For AYA childhood cancer survivors (CCSs), substance use may also increase their likelihood of experiencing late effects. As a result, professional organizations recommend that AYA CCSs be regularly screened for risk behaviors, including substance use. The best methods for assessing these behaviors as part of clinical care for AYA CCSs, however, remain unclear. To begin to address this gap, the purpose of this study was to systematically review written substance use measures that have been used with AYA CCSs and published between 2000 and 2020. A search of PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL using terms related to substance use and AYA CCSs identified 47 articles representing 20 different written substance use measures that evaluated current substance use (i.e., use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, prescription medications taken in a manner other than as prescribed, and/or other illicit substances within the 12 months). Measures varied in domains assessed, item formats, and response formats. Results are presented alongside recommendations for selecting screening tools for use with AYA CCS populations in both clinical and research settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the COVID-19 pandemic, police brutality, and climate change have exposed how structural factors impact human health, particularly the health of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Topics include the -Integrating the Multicultural Veterinary Medical Association actionable into diversity, equity, and inclusion curricula in United States veterinary colleges; the totality of ways in which societies foster racial discrimination.

Pathogen management strategies in wildlife are typically accompanied by an array of uncertainties such as the efficacy of vaccines or potential unintended consequences of interventions. In the context of such uncertainties, models of disease transmission can provide critical insight for optimizing pathogen management, especially for species of conservation concern. The endangered Florida panther experienced an outbreak of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) in 2002–2004, and continues to be affected by this deadly virus. Ongoing management efforts aim to mitigate the effects of FeLV on panthers, but with limited information about which strategies may be most effective and efficient.We used a simulation‐based approach to determine optimal FeLV management strategies in panthers. We simulated the use of proactive FeLV management strategies (i.e. proactive vaccination) and several reactive strategies, including reactive vaccination and test‐and‐removal. Vaccination strategies accounted for imperfect vaccine‐induced immunity, specifically partial immunity in which all vaccinates achieve partial pathogen protection. We compared the effectiveness of these different strategies in mitigating the number of FeLV mortalities and the duration of outbreaks.Results showed that inadequate proactive vaccination can paradoxically increase the number of disease‐induced mortalities in FeLV outbreaks. These effects were most likely due to imperfect vaccine immunity causing vaccinates to serve as a semi‐susceptible population, thereby allowing outbreaks to persist in circumstances otherwise conducive to fadeout. Combinations of proactive vaccination with reactive test‐and‐removal or vaccination, however, had a synergistic effect in reducing the impacts of FeLV outbreaks, highlighting the importance of using mixed strategies in pathogen management.Synthesis and applications. Management‐informed disease simulations are an important tool for identifying unexpected negative consequences and synergies among pathogen management strategies. In particular, we find that imperfect vaccine‐induced immunity necessitates further consideration to avoid unintentionally worsening epidemics in some conditions. However, mixing proactive and reactive interventions can improve pathogen control while mitigating uncertainties associated with imperfect interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomically precise gold clusters are highly desirable due to their well‐defined structure which allows the study of structure–property relationships. In addition, they have potential in technological applications such as nanoscale catalysis. The structural, chemical, electronic, and optical properties of ligated gold clusters are strongly defined by the metal–ligand interaction and type of ligands. This critical feature renders gold–phosphine clusters unique and distinct from other ligand‐protected gold clusters. The use of multidentate phosphines enables preparation of varying core sizes and exotic structures beyond regular polyhedrons. Weak gold–phosphorous (Au–P) bonding is advantageous for ligand exchange and removal for specific applications, such as catalysis, without agglomeration. The aim of this review is to provide a unified view of gold–phosphine clusters and to present an in‐depth discussion on recent advances and key developments for these clusters. This review features the unique chemistry, structural, electronic, and optical properties of gold–phosphine clusters. Advanced characterization techniques, including synchrotron‐based spectroscopy, have unraveled substantial effects of Au–P interaction on the composition‐, structure‐, and size‐dependent properties. State‐of‐the‐art theoretical calculations that reveal insights into experimental findings are also discussed. Finally, a discussion of the application of gold–phosphine clusters in catalysis is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parents of children with ASD who had attended an Australian emergency department (ED; n = 421) completed a questionnaire relating to their experiences in the ED, including (1) child's reason for presentation and existing comorbidities, (2) quality of care during the visit (3) child's behaviour during visit, e.g. sensory responses to the ED environment, and disruptive behaviours. Children with comorbid ASD and intellectual disability were more likely to present with gastrointestinal issues and seizures, while those with comorbid ASD and oppositional defiant disorder were more likely to present with self-injury. ED staff awareness of ASD-related issues, including communication and expression of pain, were common difficulties for parents. The ED environment (e.g. lights, sounds, waiting areas), exacerbated child anxiety and led to disruptive behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hand eczema is a common inflammatory skin disorder. Health care providers need continuously updated information about the management of hand eczema to ensure best treatment for their patients. Objectives: To update the European Society of Contact Dermatitis guideline on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment on of hand eczema. Method: The Guideline Development Group (GDG) was established on behalf of the ESCD. A call for interest was launched via the ESCD website and via the ESCD members' mailing list. Appraisal of the evidence for therapeutic and preventive interventions was applied and a structured method of developing consensus was used and moderated by an external methodologist. The final guideline was approved by the ESCD executive committee and was in external review on the ESCD webpage for 1 month. Results: Consensus was achieved for several statements and management strategies. Conclusion: The updated guideline should improve management of hand eczema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both affective lability and eating expectancies have been found to predict binge eating. There is the additional possibility that the joint effect of affective lability and eating expectancies incurs further risk: perhaps expectancies for affective relief from eating operate more strongly in those experiencing frequent, rapid shifts in emotion. In the current study, we tested whether such a joint effect predicts binge eating prospectively in college students. We assessed affective lability, eating expectancies, and binge eating in 358 college students at two time points during the first year of college (e.g., December and April). The interaction of affective lability and eating expectancies in December predicted binge eating 4 months later in April. The influence of eating expectancies on binge eating was stronger at higher levels of affective lability. Findings offer support to the hypothesis that risk factors may transact to further elevate risk for eating disorder behaviors. Clinical implications The interaction of affective lability and eating expectancies predicts binge eating Risk factors may interact to further increase binge eating Identification of co-occurring risk factors may have vital treatment implications [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pediatric legislations in the European Union (EU) and the United States (US) have increased medicines approved for use in the pediatric population. Despite many similarities between these frameworks, the EU Paediatric Regulation more often provides regulators with a mandate to require pediatric drug development for novel medicinal products compared to US regulators. If used, this could give rise to differences in the guidance for pediatric use provided for clinicians in the two regions. However, the level of discordance in the guidance for pediatric use between the two regions is unknown. This cross-sectional study compares guidance for pediatric use in the EU Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) and the US Prescription Information (USPI) on the level of indications granted for novel medicinal products approved after the pediatric legislations came in to force in both regions. For all indications granted as of March 2020 for novel medicinal products approved in both regions between 2010 and 2018, we compared the guidance for pediatric use in the EU SmPC and the USPI. The guidance for pediatric use differed for 18% (61/348) of the listed indications covering 21% (45/217) of the products, but without the guidance being contradictory. Where guidance differed, an equal share was observed for indications with a higher level of information for pediatric use in one region over the other (49% (30/61) in the US; 51% (31/61) in the EU). The discrepancies in pediatric information could be explained by differences in regulations for 21% (13/61) of the indications. Only a few conditions and diseases (EU n = 4; US n = 1) were observed to cover potential pediatric use outside the approved adult indication. Although the EU Paediatric Regulation more often provides regulators a mandate for requiring pediatric drug development as compared to the US PREA, this was not reflected in the prescription information approved by the two regulatory authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Allograft nephrectomy (AN) has been associated with considerable perioperative morbidity. We aimed to determine if preoperative angiographic kidney embolization (PAKE) to induce graft thrombosis before AN improves outcomes.Study Design: We reviewed adult kidney transplant alone patients who underwent AN at a single center from 2002 to 2020 and compared perioperative outcomes for patients with and without PAKE.Results: Eighty patients underwent AN, including 54 (67.5%) with PAKE before AN and 26 (32.5%) with AN alone. PAKE was associated with significantly reduced blood loss (PAKE: mean 266 ± 292 mL vs AN alone: 495 ± 689 mL; p = 0.04) and reduced transfusion requirements (PAKE: mean 0.5 ± 0.8 packed red blood cell units vs AN alone: 1.6 ± 2.6 units; p = 0.004) despite similar preoperative hemoglobin levels. Mean operating time (PAKE: 142 ± 43 minutes vs AN alone: 202 ± 111 minutes; p = 0.001) and length of hospital stay (PAKE: 4.3 ± 2.0 days vs AN alone: 9.3 ± 9.4 days; p = 0.0003) also favored PAKE, as did the surgical complication rate (PAKE: 6/54 [11%] vs AN alone: 9/26 [35%], p = 0.02). Long-term patient survival after AN was comparable in both groups.Conclusions: PAKE was associated with lower intraoperative blood loss, fewer transfusions, reduced operating time, shorter length of stay, and fewer surgical complications compared with AN alone at our center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several risk factors, among other lifestyle factors, have been suggested for hand eczema (HE). Objectives: To investigate a possible association between HE and lifestyle factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, physical activity, diet, and amount of sleep in the Dutch general population. Methods: Data from the large population‐based LifeLines Cohort Study was used. Individuals with HE in the past year were identified by a cross‐sectional questionnaire in 2020. At baseline, information on lifestyle factors was collected. Results: In total 57 046 individuals were included in the present analysis. Smoking ≥8 cigarettes/day, and smoking ≥15 pack years showed a positive association with HE in the past year. In addition, chronic stress, a BMI >30 kg/m2, and a waist circumference of >90 cm were positively associated with HE in the past year. Conclusions: The current study indicates that lifestyle factors are associated with HE. Advice regarding lifestyle factors might contribute to enhance overall health, of which HE might possibly benefit in conjunction. Further studies should also focus on the association between lifestyle factors and the severity and prognosis of HE rather than on occurrence alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study was grounded in the recent developments of implementing the United Nations Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in schools in Uganda, leading to a renewed interest in the questionings about inclusive education. Objectives: The inclusive approach was evaluated in terms of: (1) how public or private schools in Uganda understand inclusive education; (2) how schools implement inclusive education under the influence of the UN Convention; and (3) what determines the course of action and school routine of private and state schools. Methods: This exploratory qualitative research included interviews with six schools purposively selected in Mukono, Wakiso and Kampala districts of Central Uganda. The selected schools comprised three private and three state schools (i.e. representing primary and secondary schools and a vocational training institute). Results: The research demonstrated that 'inclusive education practice' that was upheld by all the schools, was ironically stained with exclusion, for example, by non-admission of students with visual and hearing impairment, inaccessible physical environment, inadequate funding and separation of students according to abilities. However, whilst all schools followed the regular curriculum, some schools developed their own ways of teaching learners with diverse learning needs. Conclusion: Some schools in Uganda have developed meaningful approaches of including students with disabilities but there are still many challenges for many. Enforcing Uganda's disability policies adapted from the CRPDs could enable learners with disabilities to enjoy their legal rights. Contribution: Since the intention of inclusion of students with disabilities stands in contrast to the reality of practice found in many schools, there seems to be a need to carry out regular assessments and measures of support for a sustainable inclusive school development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Much of the literature on information behavior explores information seeking. Active acquisition of information is attributed to knowledge and certainty, whereas avoidance is perceived as counter to the norm of information seeking. However, information avoidance can be considered rational behavior in certain situations. Objective. This study explored avoidance behavior in the context of academic goal progress. Avoidance behavior is manifested when students procrastinate and delay obtaining reports on academic progress from their professors. Method. The study participants were 44 Bachelor of Library and Information Science students at the University of the Philippines Diliman, who filled out a questionnaire. The questionnaire was adapted from Addison (2017) and Dr. Freund's Affect and Avoidance study design that examined avoidance in the context of personal health concerns. A pretest was conducted and the results used in modifying the questionnaire. Results. Through quantitative analysis, it was found that avoidance of academic progress information was not prevalent among the students. Most students sought information on their progress and status with respect to their academic goals. When they did avoid it, it was to prevent distressing emotions. However, many students were willing to accept inconvenient truths about their performance. Implications. By the end of the study, inferences about information-seeking behaviors concerning goal progress that the students do not observe can be known. This will assist teachers and universities to find ways to help students monitor their academic goal progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The diagnostic workup in patients with delayed motor milestones suspected of having either myopathy or a congenital myasthenic syndrome is complex. Our hypothesis was that performance of a muscle biopsy and neurophysiology including stimulated single-fiber electromyography during an anesthetic procedure, combined with genetic testing has a high diagnostic quality. Materials and Methods Clinical and paraclinical data were retrospectively collected from 24 patients aged from 1 month to 10 years (median: 5.2 years). Results Neurophysiology examination was performed in all patients and was abnormal in 11 of 24. No patients had findings suggestive of a myasthenic syndrome. Muscle biopsy was performed in 21 of 24 and was normal in 16. Diagnostic findings included nemaline rods, inclusion bodies, fiber size variability, and type-II fiber atrophy. Genetic testing with either a gene panel or exome sequencing was performed in 18 of 24 patients, with pathogenic variants detected in ACTA1 , NEB , SELENON , GRIN2B , SCN8A , and COMP genes. Conclusion Results supporting a neuromuscular abnormality were found in 15 of 24. In six patients (25%), we confirmed a genetic diagnosis and 12 had a clinical neuromuscular diagnosis. The study suggests that combined use of neurophysiology and muscle biopsy in cases where genetic testing does not provide a diagnosis can be useful in children with delayed motor milestones and clinical evidence of a neuromuscular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among Antarctic amphipods of the genus Eusirus , a highly distinctive clade of giant species is characterized by a dorsal, blade-shaped tooth on pereionites 5–7 and pleonites 1–3. This lineage, herein named 'crested Eusirus ', includes two potential species complexes, the Eusirus perdentatus and Eusirus giganteus complexes, in addition to the more distinctive Eusirus propeperdentatus. Molecular phylogenies and statistical parsimony networks (COI , CytB and ITS2) of crested Eusirus are herein reconstructed. This study aims to formally revise species diversity within crested Eusirus by applying several species delimitation methods (Bayesian implementation of the Poisson tree processes model, general mixed Yule coalescent, multi-rate Poisson tree processes and automatic barcode gap discovery) on the resulting phylogenies. In addition, results from the DNA-based methods are benchmarked against a detailed morphological analysis of all available specimens of the E. perdentatus complex. Our results indicate that species diversity of crested Eusirus is underestimated. Overall, DNA-based methods suggest that the E. perdentatus complex is composed of three putative species and that the E. giganteus complex includes four or five putative species. The morphological analysis of available specimens from the E. perdentatus complex corroborates molecular results by identifying two differentiable species, the genuine E. perdentatus and a new species, herein described as Eusirus pontomedon sp. nov. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]