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Study Design. Retrospective study. Objective. To compare the true cost between posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion and cervical laminoplasty using time driven activity-based costing methodology. Summary of Background Data. Cervical laminoplasty (LP) and posterior cervical laminectomy with fusion (LF) are effective procedures for treating cervical myelopathy. A comprehensive accounting of cost differences between LP versus LF is not available. Using time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC), we sought to compare the total facility costs in patients with cervical myelopathy undergoing LP versus LF. Materials and Methods. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 277 LP and 229 LF performed between 2019 and 2023. Total facility costs, which included personnel and supply costs, were assessed using TDABC. Separate analyses including and excluding implant costs were performed. Multiple regression analysis was utilized to assess the independent effect of LP compared with LF on facility costs, with all costs standardized using cost units (CUs). Results. Patients undergoing LP had lower total supply costs [672.5 vs. 765.0 CUs (0.88x), P < 0.001] and lower total personnel costs [330.0 vs. 830.0 CUs (0.40x), P < 0.001], resulting in a lower total facility cost both including [1003.8 vs. 1600.0 CUs (0.63x), P < 0.001] and excluding implant costs [770.0 vs. 875.0 CUs (0.88x), P < 0.001] (Table 1). After controlling for demographics and comorbidities, LF was associated with increased total facility costs, including (588.5 CUs, 95% CI: 517.1-659.9 CUs, P < 0.001) and excluding implant costs (104.3 CUs, 95% CI: 57.6-151.0 CUs, P < 0.001). Conclusions. Using time-driven activity-based costing, we found that total facility costs were lower in patients treated with laminoplasty. These findings suggest that laminoplasty may of fer a less costly and more efficient surgical option for treating cervical myelopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence supports associations between polyunsaturated fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and psychosis. However, polyunsaturated fatty acid trajectories in the general population have not been characterized, and associations with psychosis spectrum outcomes in early adulthood are unknown. Plasma omega-6 to omega-3 ratio and DHA (expressed as percentage of total fatty acids) were measured by nuclear magnetic spectroscopy at 7, 15, 17, and 24 years of age in participants of ALSPAC (Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children). Curvilinear growth mixture modeling evaluated body mass index–adjusted trajectories of both measures. Outcomes were assessed at 24 years. Psychotic experiences (PEs), at-risk mental state status, psychotic disorder, and number of PEs were assessed using the Psychosis-Like Symptoms interview (n = 3635; 2247 [61.8%] female). Negative symptoms score was measured using the Community Assessment of Psychic Experiences (n = 3484; 2161 [62.0%] female). Associations were adjusted for sex, ethnicity, parental social class, and cumulative smoking and alcohol use. Relative to stable average, the persistently high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio trajectory was associated with increased odds of PEs and psychotic disorder, but attenuated on adjustment for covariates (PEs adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.63, 95% CI = 0.92-2.89; psychotic disorder aOR = 1.69, 95% CI = 0.71-4.07). This was also the case for persistently low DHA (PEs aOR = 1.42, 95% CI = 0.84-2.37; psychotic disorder aOR = 1.14, 95% CI = 0.49-2.67). Following adjustment, persistently high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio was associated with increased number of PEs (β = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.05-0.78) and negative symptoms score (β = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.14-0.72), as was persistently low DHA (number of PEs β = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.14-0.76; negative symptoms β = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.12-0.58). Optimization of polyunsaturated fatty acid status during development warrants further investigation in relation to psychotic symptoms in early adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cannabidiol (CBD) impacts brain regions implicated in anxiety reactivity and stress reactivity (e.g., amygdala, anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), anterior insula (AI)); however, placebo-controlled studies are mixed regarding CBD's anxiolytic effects. We previously reported that CBD expectancy alone can alter subjective, physiological, and endocrine markers of stress/anxiety; however, it is unclear whether these findings reflect altered brain reactivity. This study evaluated whether CBD expectancy independently alters amygdala resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) with the ACC and AI following acute stress. Method: Thirty-eight (20 females) healthy adults were randomly assigned to receive accurate or inaccurate information regarding the CBD content of a CBD-free oil administered during a single experimental session. Following a baseline resting state MRI scan, participants administered their assigned oil sublingually, engaged in a stress task (serial subtraction with negative feedback) inside the scanner, and underwent another resting state MRI scan. Amygdala rsFC with the ACC and AI was measured during each scan, and the subjective state was assessed at six time points. Outcomes were analyzed using ANCOVA. Results: CBD expectancy (vs CBD-free expectancy) was associated with significantly weaker rsFC between the left amygdala and right ACC (p = 0.042), but did not systematically alter amygdala-AI rsFC (p- values > 0.05). We also replicated our previously reported CBD expectancy effects on subjective stress/anxiety in the scanner context. Conclusion: CBD placebo effects may be sufficient to alter neural responses relevant to its purported anxiolytic and stress-relieving properties. Future work is needed to replicate these results and determine whether CBD expectancy and pharmacology interact to alter neural anxiety reactivity and stress reactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Iliopsoas tendinitis after total hip arthroplasty (THA) has become more prevalent with the increased use of large-diameter femoral heads impinging on native surrounding tissues. Anatomically contoured heads (ACH) are soft-tissue-friendly femoral heads created to minimise this issue. This retrospective study assesses iliopsoas tendinitis prevalence and re-operations in primary THAs with ACH, while determining the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) achievement and improvement with 5 patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 53 ACHs from January 2020 to July 2023. Patients who completed Hip Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score–Physical Function Short Form (HOOS-PS), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function Short Form 10a (PF SF-10a), PROMIS Global Health (GH)-Mental, or PROMIS GH-Physical, and pain score questionnaires were identified. PROM scores were collected preoperatively and at 3-month and 1-year postoperative intervals. Comparisons using chi-square and ANOVA tests were applied. Results: The rates of achieving MCID and improvement within the first year were (69.2 vs. 76.9%) for PROMIS GH-Physical, (38.5 vs. 46.2%) for PROMIS GH-Mental, (71.4 vs. 92.9%) for HOOS-PS, (80.0 vs. 80.0%) for PROMIS PF SF-10a, and (74.0 vs. 91.7%) for pain scores. PROM scores at 3 months and 1 year significantly varied across all categories, except for PROMIS GH-Mental. No patients had iliopsoas tendinitis, dislocations, or re-operations. Discussion: ACH implants may alleviate anterior hip pain, while maintaining comparable strength and bio-compatibility to conventional femoral heads. This study underscores the early safety and potential of ACH implants in reducing iliopsoas tendinitis and impingement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United Nations' Convention on Biological Diversity set forth the 30 × 30 target, an agenda for countries to protect at least 30% of their terrestrial, inland water, and coastal and marine areas by 2030. With <6 years to reach that goal, riverine conservation professionals are faced with the difficult decision of prioritizing which rivers or river segments should be conserved (protected and/or restored). While incorporating resilience into conservation planning is essential for enhancing, restoring, and maintaining the vital riverine ecosystem services (ES) most threatened by climate change and other environmental and human stresses, this paradigm is at odds with traditional conservation approaches that are either opportunistic or reactionary, where only unique and highly visible ecosystems have been prioritized. Barriers to implementing resilience‐based riverine conservation planning include: (1) difficulties in conceptualizing and quantifying resilience; (2) insufficient consideration of the social components of riverine systems; (3) the inapplicability of terrestrial‐only conservation models to aquatic systems; and (4) the traditional ad hoc and opportunistic approach to conservation. To overcome these barriers, we propose a resilience‐based riverine conservation framework that includes: (1) assessing riverine resilience using indicator frameworks; (2) considering rivers as dynamically coupled social–ecological systems; (3) explicitly incorporating terrestrial–aquatic network connectivity into conservation decision‐making; and (4) strategic systems planning using a novel resilience–conservation matrix as a tool. This framework has the potential to transform conservation practices around the globe to more effectively protect river systems and enhance their resilience to climate change and human development. This article is categorized under:Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and AwarenessScience of Water > Water and Environmental ChangeHuman Water > Water Governance [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fernandez, P.N.J.; Fernandez, E.G.B.; Cadondon, J.G., and Subade, R.F., 2024. Enhancing coastal management through the design and development of an in situ water quality monitoring system. Journal of Coastal Research, 40(6), 1090–1102. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208. The Philippines, with its extensive coastline rich in water resources, faces challenges because of the heavy reliance of residents on coastal waters for recreation and livelihood. This leads to water quality deterioration. Balancing human development with environmental protection necessitates regular, close monitoring of water resources. Traditional methods of water quality analysis are time-consuming and labor-intensive, and regular monitoring is financially burdensome. This study introduces the design and development of a customized water quality monitoring device as an alternative to traditional laboratory analysis. The device is portable, user-friendly, and capable of rapidly gathering real-time data. It features a multiparameter sensor that simultaneously measures temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), and electrical conductivity (EC). After testing and calibration, the device showed a mean error of 0.91°C for temperature, –0.025 mg/L for DO, 0.09 for pH, and 0.033 mS/cm for EC. Forty seawater samples from nine Environmental Management Bureau coastline monitoring stations were analyzed using the device. Comparison with commercially available in situ devices showed a moderate coefficient of determination for DO and pH and a high coefficient of determination for EC and temperature, indicating that some environmental and user-related factors affect readings. Insights from empirical results and consultations with local stakeholders will inform future improvements of the device. Implementing this prototype can help to inform decisions on resource management, pollution control, and public health protection. Real-time data can aid in early detection of contaminants and pollution sources, which allows swift remedial action, and adaptive management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the diagnostic performance of post-contrast CT for predicting moderate hepatic steatosis in an older adult cohort undergoing a uniform CT protocol, utilizing hepatic and splenic attenuation values. Materials and methods: A total of 1676 adults (mean age, 68.4 ± 10.2 years; 1045M/631F) underwent a CT urothelial protocol that included unenhanced, portal venous, and 10-min delayed phases through the liver and spleen. Automated hepatosplenic segmentation for attenuation values (in HU) was performed using a validated deep-learning tool. Unenhanced liver attenuation < 40.0 HU, corresponding to > 15% MRI-based proton density fat, served as the reference standard for moderate steatosis. Results: The prevalence of moderate or severe steatosis was 12.9% (216/1676). The diagnostic performance of portal venous liver HU in predicting moderate hepatic steatosis (AUROC = 0.943) was significantly better than the liver–spleen HU difference (AUROC = 0.814) (p < 0.001). Portal venous phase liver thresholds of 80 and 90 HU had a sensitivity/specificity for moderate steatosis of 85.6%/89.6%, and 94.9%/74.7%, respectively, whereas a liver–spleen difference of −40 HU and −10 HU had a sensitivity/specificity of 43.5%/90.0% and 92.1%/52.5%, respectively. Furthermore, livers with moderate–severe steatosis demonstrated significantly less post-contrast enhancement (mean, 35.7 HU vs 47.3 HU; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Moderate steatosis can be reliably diagnosed on standard portal venous phase CT using liver attenuation values alone. Consideration of splenic attenuation appears to add little value. Moderate steatosis not only has intrinsically lower pre-contrast liver attenuation values (< 40 HU), but also enhances less, typically resulting in post-contrast liver attenuation values of 80 HU or less. Clinical relevance statement: Moderate steatosis can be reliably diagnosed on post-contrast CT using liver attenuation values alone. Livers with at least moderate steatosis enhance less than those with mild or no steatosis, which combines with the lower intrinsic attenuation to improve detection. Key Points: The liver–spleen attenuation difference is frequently utilized in routine practice but appears to have performance limitations. The liver–spleen attenuation difference is less effective than liver attenuation for moderate steatosis. Moderate and severe steatosis can be identified on standard portal venous phase CT using liver attenuation alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'What is the good life?' Few empirical studies explore how American college students answer this important question. In this grounded theory study, we analysed the responses of 276 American college students in two phases. In the first phase, we examined responses from 109 students at 10 different universities. In the second phase, we added interviews with an additional 167 students at one of the universities. Based on our coding, we found students' visions of the good life were comprised of 24 unique ingredients; the most common being having a stable or passion-inspired career, being married, having children, continuing advanced learning, and being financially stable. We also discovered that eight distinct clusters of ingredients accounted for three-fourths of student responses. The clusters included American dreamers, happy strivers, comfort, and stability seekers, ECL (enjoy work, have comfort, limited family) students, family cultivators, singular career strivers, moral strivers, and God-followers. Plain Language Summary: 'What is the good life?' For thousands of years, authors have told us what the good life should be. Yet, if educators and other practitioners, such as student life personnel and youth workers, are going to help persuade students to develop a particular vision of the good life, respectable pedagogy requires that we first understand what students think the good life is. Unfortunately, few studies explore how American college students answer this important question. In this study, we analysed the responses of 276 American college students in two phases. In the first phase, we examined responses from 109 students at 10 different universities. In the second phase, we added interviews with an additional 167 students at one of the universities. Based on our analysis, we found students' visions of the good life were comprised of 24 unique good life 'ingredients'. An ingredient is simply one particular element of the good life that students mentioned. The most common ingredients were having a stable or passion-inspired career, being married, having children, continuing advanced learning, and being financially stable. We also discovered that eight distinct clusters of ingredients accounted for three-fourths of student responses. We named these clusters: American dreamers, happy strivers, comfort, and stability seekers, ECL (enjoy work, have comfort, limited family) students, family cultivators, singular career strivers, moral strivers, and God-followers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In children with myocarditis or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for cardiogenic shock, it is often necessary to decompress the left heart to minimize distension and promote myocardial recovery. We compare outcomes in those who underwent balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) versus direct left atrial (LA) drainage for left heart decompression in this population. Methods: Retrospective study of the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) multicenter registry of patients ≤ 18 years with myocarditis or DCM on ECMO who underwent LA decompression. Descriptive and univariate statistics assessed association of patient factors with decompression type. Multivariable logistic regression sought independent associations with outcomes. Results: 369 pediatric ECMO runs were identified. 52% myocarditis, 48% DCM, overall survival 74%. 65% underwent BAS and 35% LA drainage. Patient demographics including age, weight, gender, race/ethnicity, diagnosis, pre-ECMO pH, mean airway pressure, and arrest status were similar. 89% in the BAS group were peripherally cannulated onto ECMO, versus 3% in the LA drainage group (p <.001). On multivariable analysis, LA drainage (OR 3.96; 95% CI, 1.47-10.711; p =.007), renal complication (OR 2.37; 95% CI, 1.41-4.01; p =.001), cardiac complication (OR 3.14; 95% CI, 1.70-5.82; p <.001), and non-white race/ethnicity (OR 1.75; 95% CI, 1.04-2.94; p =.035) were associated with greater odds of mortality. There was a trend toward more episodes of pulmonary hemorrhage in BAS (n = 17) versus LA drainage group (n = 3), p =.08. Comparing only those with central cannulation, LA drainage group was more likely to be discontinued from ECMO due to recovery (72%) versus the BAS group (48%), p =.032. Conclusions: In children with myocarditis or DCM, there was a three times greater likelihood for mortality with LA drainage versus BAS for LA decompression. When adjusted for central cannulation groups only, there was better recovery in the LA drainage group and no difference in mortality. Further prospective evaluation is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Longitudinal research can assess how diverging development of multiple cognitive skills during infancy, as well as familial background, are related to the emergence of neurodevelopmental conditions. Sensorimotor and effortful control difficulties are seen in infants later diagnosed with autism; this study explored the relationships between these skills and autism characteristics in 340 infants (240 with elevated familial autism likelihood) assessed at 4–7, 8–10, 12–15, 24, and 36 months. We tested: (1) the relationship between parent‐reported effortful control (Rothbart's temperament questionnaires) and sensorimotor skills (Mullen Scales of Early Learning), using random intercept cross‐lagged panel modelling; (2) whether household income and maternal education predicted stable individual differences in cognition; (3) sensorimotor and effortful control skills as individual and interactive predictors of parent‐reported autism characteristics (Social Responsiveness Scale) at 3 years, using multiple regression; and (4) moderation of interactions by familial likelihood. Sensorimotor skills were longitudinally associated with effortful control at the subsequent measurement point from 12–15 months. Socioeconomic status indicators did not predict stable between‐infant differences in sensorimotor or effortful control skills. Effortful control skills were longitudinally related to 3‐year autism characteristics from the first year of life, with evidence for an interaction with sensorimotor skills at 24 months. Effects of effortful control increased with age and were particularly important for infants with family histories of autism. Results are discussed in relation to different theoretical frameworks: Developmental Cascades and Anterior Modifiers in the Emergence of Neurodevelopmental Disorders. We suggest a role for 24‐month effortful control in explaining the emergent autism phenotype. Research Highlights: Sensorimotor skills longitudinally predicted effortful control from 12–15 months onward but effortful control did not longitudinally predict sensorimotor skills during infancy.Measures of effortful control skills taken before the age of 1 predicted continuous variation in autism characteristics at 36 months, with associations increasing in strength with age.Effortful control (measured at 12–15 and 24 months) was a stronger predictor of 36‐month autism characteristics in infants with elevated familial likelihood for autism.The relationship between 24‐month sensorimotor skills and 36‐month autism characteristics was stronger in infants with weaker effortful control skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with serious illnesses often do not engage in discussions about end-of-life care decision-making, or do so reluctantly. These discussions can be useful in facilitating advance care planning and connecting patients to services such as palliative care that improve quality of life. Terror Management Theory, a social psychology theory stating that humans are motivated to resolve the discomfort surrounding their inevitable death, has been discussed in the psychology literature as an underlying basis of human decision-making and behavior. This paper explores how Terror Management Theory could be extended to seriously ill populations and applied to their healthcare decision-making processes and quality of care received. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractHere, I take Eli Clare’s concept of "brilliant imperfection" as a jumping-off point to reflect on how my PhD research into autistic experiences of intimacy led to an engagement with – and understanding of – my own relationship to disability. Life imitated research as participants’ narratives held a mirror up to my own experience of growing up gay, my life with HIV, and my adult diagnosis of ADHD. Far from being a dry scholarly exercise, the PhD journey came to represent a personal, professional, and academic transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How do teachers’ gestures influence students’ learning? This article reviews research investigating the role of gestures in communication, focusing on teachers’ communication with their students, primarily in mathematics and science instruction. We first briefly consider gesture's role in communication more generally as a backdrop for considering teaching as a special context for communication. We then describe teachers’ spontaneous gesturing in teaching contexts, and we consider how teachers’ spontaneous gestures might influence students’ learning. We then consider experimental studies that provide causal support for the effects of teachers’ gestures on students’ learning. We conclude by discussing future directions and implications for educational practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue-specific gene knockout by CRISPR/Cas9 is a powerful approach for characterizing gene functions during development. However, this approach has not been successfully applied to most Drosophila tissues, including the Drosophila neuromuscular junction (NMJ). To expand tissue-specific CRISPR to this powerful model system, here we present a CRISPR-mediated tissue-restricted mutagenesis (CRISPR-TRiM) toolkit for knocking out genes in motoneurons, muscles, and glial cells. We validated the efficacy of CRISPR-TRiM by knocking out multiple genes in each tissue, demonstrated its orthogonal use with the Gal4/UAS binary expression system, and showed simultaneous knockout of multiple redundant genes. We used CRISPR-TRiM to discover an essential role for SNARE components in NMJ maintenance. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the canonical ESCRT pathway suppresses NMJ bouton growth by downregulating retrograde Gbb signaling. Lastly, we found that axon termini of motoneurons rely on ESCRT-mediated intra-axonal membrane trafficking to release extracellular vesicles at the NMJ. Thus, we have successfully developed an NMJ CRISPR mutagenesis approach which we used to reveal genes important for NMJ structural plasticity. Author summary: We have developed a tissue-specific Cas9 toolkit that enables gene knockout specifically in motor neurons, glial cells, and muscle cells, the three principle cell types of the Drosophila peripheral motor system. Complementary to existing RNAi methods, this versatile tissue-specific knockout system offers unique advantages for dissecting gene functions at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). Using these tools, we discovered that SNARE-mediated secretory pathways are required to maintain the integrity of the NMJ and that ESCRT components play critical yet differential roles in the biogenesis of extracellular vesicles, bouton growth, and membrane turnover at the NMJ. This CRISPR toolkit can be applied to study many biological questions in the neuromuscular system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2015, the United States Supreme Court legalized same‐sex marriage nationwide, setting in motion a sweeping social change for sexual minority people and their romantic relationships. The United States Census Bureau collects demographic data on same‐sex couple households, offering an opportunity to better understand the demographic makeup of same‐sex marriage today. This knowledge is essential for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers who aim to understand and support same‐sex couples' relationships. We used national probability data from the American Community Survey collected in 2021 (the most recent year these data are available) on married and unmarried, cohabiting same‐sex and opposite‐sex households. Respondents reported their own age, race, ethnicity, education, employment, income, home ownership, and whether they had children living with them in their household. Differences between married and unmarried opposite‐sex couples were observed in race, ethnicity, age, and socioeconomic status, consistent with prior research. Many of these demographic gaps also existed for same‐sex couples, although these were often smaller. Several of these differences further varied between male and female same‐sex couples. Same‐sex married couples appear to be more demographically diverse than opposite‐sex married couples. However, like opposite‐sex couples, same‐sex couples from multiple minoritized groups were less likely to be married. Future research is needed to understand drivers of these differences (e.g., different attitudes about marriage or lack of access to marriage) and their impact. Policymakers and clinicians will need to bear these group differences in mind when designing policy and delivering services to support the well‐being of sexual minority couples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Secondhand smoke exposure (SHS) and child maltreatment (CM) are preventable yet have negative lifelong impacts on health. When considered together, the risk for negative health outcomes may be compounded, especially for people living in low-resource settings. Evidence-based interventions exist for preventing CM and reducing SHS among families with low resources; however, no programs jointly target SHS exposure and maltreatment risk. Methods: This study is a hybrid type 1 trial to examine the effectiveness of a systematically braided intervention to target CM risk and SHS in the home. Fifty SafeCare Providers will be randomized to deliver either standard SafeCare (i.e., the SafeCare model alone; active treatment control; n = 25) or Smoke-Free Home SafeCare (SFHSC; treatment condition; n = 25), the braided intervention that includes both SafeCare and the Smoke-Free Homes: Some Things are Better Outside intervention to N = 500 families. Aim 2 is to assess family-level outcomes. The primary outcome is a full home smoking ban, validated by air nicotine monitors; secondary outcomes include parenting and smoking outcomes. Aim 3 is to evaluate process and implementation outcomes, including cost–benefit. We will use multilevel models and ROC analyses to evaluate and validate the primary outcome. We will use tests of non-inferiority to evaluate secondary outcomes. Cost-effectiveness analyses will be used to assess cost–benefit of SFHSC. Discussion: This study will be the first to document the outcomes of a multi-component intervention to address cumulative risk factors that impact cancer risk among children whose parents are at risk or involved in child-protective services. Integrating an evidence-based intervention that targets SHS exposure in the home with a broadly disseminated CM prevention intervention may be a sustainable way to help reduce the compounded effects of SHS in the home and CM. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT05000632. Registered on August 11, 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The anteroventral thalamic nucleus was assessed in individuals with Down syndrome. • There was increased beta-amyloid plaque expression in the AV in the Down syndrome group. • The proportion of CBP-immunopositive cells was reduced in the AV in Down syndrome. The anterior thalamic nuclei are important for cognition, and memory in particular. However, little is known about how the anterior thalamic nuclei are affected in many neurological disorders partly due to difficulties in selective segmentation in in vivo scans, due to their size and location. Post-mortem studies, therefore, remain a valuable source of information about the status of the anterior thalamic nuclei. We used post-mortem tissue to assess the status of the anteroventral thalamic nucleus in Down syndrome using samples from males and females ranging from 22-65 years in age and comparing to tissue from age matched controls. As expected, there was increased beta-amyloid plaque expression in the Down syndrome group. While there was a significant increase in neuronal density in the Down syndrome group, the values showed more variation consistent with a heterogeneous population. The surface area of the anteroventral thalamic nucleus was smaller in the Down syndrome group suggesting the increased neuronal density was due to greater neuronal packing but likely fewer overall neurons. There was a marked reduction in the proportion of neurons immunoreactive for the calcium-binding proteins calbindin, calretinin, and parvalbumin in individuals with Down syndrome. These findings highlight the vulnerability of calcium-binding proteins in the anteroventral nucleus in Down syndrome, which could both be driven by, and exacerbate, Alzheimer-related pathology in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outdoor educators rely on access to protected natural areas to provide transformative learning experiences, yet increasing recreational use threatens this access due to ecological harm and resulting management interventions. This paper explores the ecological impacts of nonmotorized outdoor recreation and the implications for outdoor educators' access to protected areas, using the Manistee River Trail in Michigan as a case study. Drawing on academic literature and field observations, this commentary highlights the adverse impacts of quiet recreation, such as erosion and campsite proliferation, and the challenges faced by conservation agencies in managing overuse. The commentary includes a brief overview of data collection methods used to assess the MRT's condition and offers recommendations for collaborative approaches between curricular and co-curricular outdoor education programs and conservation agencies to address these challenges. By emphasizing the importance of data-driven management decisions and partnerships, this paper underscores the need to balance conservation efforts with access to outdoor classrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of psychotherapy for depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been well-established in community samples but its effectiveness in carceral settings is less clear. The present systematic review thus sought to evaluate the effects of psychological therapies for PTSD and depression in incarcerated samples. We searched five databases from inception through January 2023, for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Two reviewers independently reviewed the study eligibility, extracted the data, assessed the intervention reporting, and evaluated the risk of bias. Eleven RCTs met inclusion criteria, five addressing treatment of PTSD, and six addressing treatment of depression. Interventions produced mixed findings with respect to symptom reduction relative to active controls, with a significant risk of methodological bias in virtually all studies. Of the interventions studied, interpersonal psychotherapy produced the most encouraging, though clearly still tentative results for the treatment of depression. Results highlight the need for increased methodological rigor and additional research to examine the effectiveness of interventions that have yielded positive results in community samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Managing feral water buffalo in the Northern Territory is a formidable challenge. As an introduced species, buffalo are associated with a myriad of biosecurity, economic, cultural and environmental issues ranging from overgrazing, decreased water quality, disease vectors to the destruction of cultural assets. Nevertheless, the buffalo are also a harvestable resource that can support economic development of the region. To mitigate some of the biosecurity, economic, cultural and environmental risks they pose and manage buffalo effectively, we need a detailed understanding of their spatial and behavioural ecology. However, several factors make understanding how best to manage the dense populations of wild individuals challenging as buffalo inhabit remote areas with limited infrastructure and accessibility and their large size and often aggressive nature can make them difficult to observe in otherwise inaccessible areas. GPS tracking allows for high‐frequency data collection and surveillance of individual buffalo. Here, we investigated how the different seasonal periods of a Northern Territory floodplain area shaped patterns of habitat use for 17 buffalo tracked over 16 months. We found in the dry season, buffalo space use is restricted, and the size of home ranges are significantly smaller than in the wet season. During the wet season, buffalo expand their home range area as well as their social encounter area with other buffalo. These differences in their space use and social patterns suggest that increased disease surveillance may be needed for the wet season when buffalo are more likely to share space and interact. During the dry season, however, buffalo movement is more predictable and restricted, suggesting greater optimisation opportunities for buffalo management. Results from these models can be used by land holders, Traditional Owners and wildlife managers to make evidence‐based decisions to improve buffalo management with respect to disease risk, sustainable harvest and damage to environmental and cultural assets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The minimal clinically important difference, minimal important change, minimal detectable change and patient-acceptable symptom state are poorly defined for the Oxford Shoulder Score following shoulder arthroplasty. The study's aim was to calculate their values. Methods: One hundred patients underwent shoulder arthroplasty and completed pre and 1-year postoperative Oxford Shoulder Score. Patient satisfaction was assessed at 1-year using a visual analogue scale from 0 to 100: 'very satisfied' (>80), 'satisfied' (>60–80), and 'unsatisfied' (≤60). The difference between patients recording 'unsatisfied' (n = 11) and 'satisfied' (n = 16) was used to define the minimal clinically important difference. MICcohort was calculated as the change in Oxford Shoulder Score for those satisfied (>60). Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine the MICindividual and patient-acceptable symptom state. Distribution-based methodology was used for the minimal detectable change. Results: The minimal clinically important difference was 6.9 (95% confidence interval 0.7–13.1, p = 0.039). The MICcohort was 11.6 (95% confidence interval 6.8–16.4) and MICindividual 13. The minimal detectable change was 6.6 and the patient-acceptable symptom state was defined as ≥29. Discussion: The minimal clinically important difference and minimal important change can assess whether there is a clinical difference between two groups and whether a cohort/patient has had a meaningful change in their Oxford Shoulder Score, respectively. These were greater than measurement error (minimal detectable change), suggesting a real change. The patient-acceptable symptom state can be used as a marker of achieving satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Biofilm is linked through a variety of mechanisms to the pathogenesis of chronic wounds. However, accurate biofilm detection is challenging, demanding highly specialized and technically complex methods rendering it unapplicable for most clinical settings. This study evaluated promising methods of bedside biofilm localization, fluorescence imaging of wound bacterial loads, and biofilm blotting by comparing their performance against validation scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Methods: In this clinical trial, 40 chronic hard-to-heal wounds underwent the following assessments: (1) clinical signs of biofilm (CSB), (2) biofilm blotting, (3) fluorescence imaging for localizing bacterial loads, wound scraping taken for (4) SEM to confirm matrix encased bacteria (biofilm), and (5) PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) to determine absolute bacterial load and species present. We used a combination of SEM and PCR microbiology to calculate the diagnostic accuracy measures of the CSB, biofilm blotting assay, and fluorescence imaging. Results: Study data demonstrate that 62.5% of wounds were identified as biofilm-positive based on SEM and microbiological assessment. By employing this method to determine the gold truth, and thus calculate accuracy measures for all methods, fluorescence imaging demonstrated superior sensitivity (84%) and accuracy (63%) compared to CSB (sensitivity 44% and accuracy 43%) and biofilm blotting (sensitivity 24% and accuracy 40%). Biofilm blotting exhibited the highest specificity (64%), albeit with lower sensitivity and accuracy. Using SEM alone as the validation method slightly altered the results, but all trends held constant. Discussion: This trial provides the first comparative assessment of bedside methods for wound biofilm detection. We report the diagnostic accuracy measures of these more feasibly implementable methods versus laboratory-based SEM. Fluorescence imaging showed the greatest number of true positives (highest sensitivity), which is clinically relevant and provides assurance that no pathogenic bacteria will be missed. It effectively alerted regions of biofilm at the point-of-care with greater accuracy than standard clinical assessment (CSB) or biofilm blotting paper, providing actionable information that will likely translate into enhanced therapeutic approaches and better patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Finger limes (Citrus australasica) are an Australian native and traditional food that are known for their caviar‐like pearls often referred to as "Citrus Caviar". This study aimed to spectrally characterise finger lime varieties sourced across South‐East Queensland and Northern New South Wales. The varieties investigated demonstrated a wide diversity in their phenotypic appearance; however, their infrared spectra were similar. The NIR spectra of the samples were collected using a portable instrument and the data analysed using principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares (PLS) regression. Differences in the PCA score plot were observed associated with the different varieties analysed. The cross‐validation statistics obtained for the prediction of adulteration of finger with Tahitian lime were R2CV and SECV 0.96% and 7%, respectively (using 8 PLS factors), using PLS regression. This study demonstrated that a portable handheld NIR instrument is able to identify finger lime varieties using both whole fruits and the corresponding peel samples. This study also showed that NIR was able to identify the level of adulteration of finger lime with Tahitian lime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though research has examined pornography viewing frequency and its correlates in national samples, researchers have yet to assess how much pornography use the general population thinks is "average" for men and women. Drawing on data from a nationally representative sample of American adults (Men: N = 1,127; Women = 1,382; total mean age = 50.0, SD = 17.4), it was hypothesized that Americans' estimations of how much pornography use is average for men and women would be shaped by perceptual mechanisms as well as the influence of religious subculture. Results show that age, personal pornography use, self-reported addiction to pornography, and religiosity (for men), were associated with Americans' perceptions of what is average for others. The association with personal pornography use was amplified for same-gender estimations, and Americans estimated the average man views pornography more frequently than the average woman. Americans rarely reported viewing pornography at higher rates than what they estimated for others. This study provides initial steps toward understanding gendered impressions of average pornography use and provides recommendations for how future research could explore differing mechanisms of same-gender and cross-gender perceptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research exploring the effects of tactile feedback in standing balance protocols may have generated results that misrepresent the modulatory capabilities of cutaneous afference on generating motor output responses. The neurosensory mechanism of textured foot orthoses to maximize the activation of cutaneous mechanoreceptors is through repetitive foot sole skin indentation. Thus, the purpose of this experimental protocol was to investigate muscular activity amplitude changes during the stance phase of gait, specifically when walking on level ground and when stepping onto a raised wedge, and while wearing textured foot orthoses compared to orthoses without texture. Twenty-one healthy young adults were fit to a standardized neutral running shoe and completed five level and wedged walking trials wearing both orthoses. Kinematic, kinetic and electromyography (EMG) data were recorded from eight lower limb muscles. The results of this study revealed EMG suppression of lower leg musculature during stance when walking in textured foot orthoses, and this was most pronounced when lower leg musculature is typically most active. The addition of texture in foot orthoses design, spanning the entire length of the foot sole, appears to be a clear mechanism to modulate neurosensory feedback with intent to suppress EMG of shank musculature during gait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Education policies are typically anchored in official texts that provide a foundation for their enactment in schools. What are the implications of an invisible policy not anchored in any official text due to political motives? This study explores the enactment of an invisible education policy that regulates religious enclave schools. These schools' curricula are the source of frequent conflict between states and religious enclave communities. The study draws on the case of the National Haredi Education (NHE) reform in Israel that enabled ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) private schools in Israel to affiliate with a new stream of public schools whose regulations were not anchored in any official text. The data comprised interviews with principals, teachers, and supervisors, as well as document analysis. The findings showed that the enactment of the NHE policy was primarily manifested in invisible changes, such as teacher professionalisation and pupil assessment. Curricular changes visible to the wider school community were enacted differently in different schools. Our findings also characterised the implications of the NHE policy's invisibility. The lack of institutional recognition hindered the reform, but the autonomy of the implementing agents enabled them to promote changes within their purview and become policy entrepreneurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sensitivity of zinc (Zn(II)) detection using fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) with carbon fiber microelectrodes (CFMEs) is low compared to other neurochemicals. We have shown previously that Zn(II) plates to the surface of CFME's and we speculate that it is because of the abundance of oxide functionality on the surface. Plating reduces sensitivity over time and causes significant disruption to detection stability. This limited sensitivity and stability hinders Zn(II) detection, especially in complex matrices like the brain. To address this, we developed plasma-treated gold fiber microelectrodes (AuMEs) which enable sensitive and stable Zn(II) detection with FSCV. Typically, gold fibers are treated using corrosive acids to clean the surface and this step is important for preparing the surface for electrochemistry. Likewise, because FSCV is an adsorption-based technique, it is also important for Zn(II) to adsorb and desorb to prevent irreversible plating. Because of these requirements, careful optimization of the electrode surface was necessary to render the surface for Zn(II) adsorption yet strike a balance between attraction to the surface vs. irreversible interactions. In this study, we employed oxygen plasma treatment to activate the gold fiber surface without inducing significant morphological changes. This treatment effectively removes the organic layer while functionalizing the surface with oxygen, enabling Zn(II) detection that is not possible on untreated gold surfaces. Our results demonstrate significantly improved Zn(II) detection sensitivity and stability on AuME compared to CFME's. Overall, this work provides an advance in our understanding of Zn(II) electrochemistry and a new tool for improved metallotransmitter detection in the brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIntroductionMethodsResultsDiscussionConclusionsThe objective of this study was to update and expand on previous studies of opioid exposures among young children reported to America’s Poison Centers, and to describe how fentanyl and medications for opioid use disorder have contributed.This retrospective study investigated 34,632 reports of single-substance opioid exposure from 2016 to 2023 involving pediatric patients aged one month to six years old. Descriptive statistics, tests for data normality, and significance testing were performed where applicable.Of 34,632 reported exposures, 96.7% were unintentional. The median age of exposure was 2.0 years (IQR 1.33-3.0 years). Reported exposures decreased by 57.5% over the study period (r = −0.96; P < 0.001). However, there was a 300% absolute increase in deaths and major effects (r = 0.96; P < 0.001). Exposures resulting in minor, no effect, not followed, or unable to follow decreased 66.2% (r = −0.99; P < 0.001). Buprenorphine was most frequently involved, comprising 23.4% of reported exposures. Buprenorphine (OR 1.93; P < 0.001) and methadone (OR 14.98; P < 0.001) were associated with an increased risk of severe effects when compared to other prescription drugs (OR: 1). There was an absolute increase of 512% over time in reports of heroin, fentanyl, synthetic non-pharmaceutical opioids (r = 0.92; P < 0.001), which were also associated with severe effects (OR 20.1; P < 0.001).Pediatric opioid exposures have previously been reported to be relatively stable. It is likely the 57.5% reduction is exaggerated due to underreporting from health care providers. However, decreases in exposures are presumed to be balanced throughout the dataset and, therefore, without differential impact on other points of analysis. Our study highlights the continued need for enhanced poisoning prevention strategies.The relative severity of poisonings reported to poison centers worsened over the study period. The opioids implicated have shifted away from hydrocodone, oxycodone, and tramadol, and towards fentanyl and buprenorphine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intrauterine alcohol exposure delays bone maturation and intensifies osteoporosis and fracture risk. As most studies emphasize the neurological aspects of intrauterine alcohol exposure, there is a lack of research on the implications pertaining to osseous tissue. Previous studies investigated these effects in fetuses, with limited studies on postnatal life. Postnatal studies are crucial since peak bone growth occurs during adolescence. This study aimed at assessing the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on the humerus proximal and distal growth plate chondrocytes in 3-week-old rats. Sprague Dawley rats (n=9) were assigned to either the ethanol group (n=3), saline (n=3), and untreated (n=3) group and time-mated. Once pregnant, as confirmed by the presence of a copulation plug, the former 2 groups were treated with 0.015 ml/g of 25.2% ethanol and 0.9% saline. The untreated group received no treatment. The left humeri belonging to 6 pups per group were used. Serial sections were cut with a microtome at 5 µm thickness. These sections were stained with haematoxylin and eosin for assessment of normal morphology or immunolabeled with anti-Ki-67 and transforming growth factor β-1 (TGFβ-1) antibody. Prenatal alcohol exposure adversely effected the growth plate sizes and the number of cells in the proliferative zone. Fewer TGFβ-1 immunopositive and proliferative chondrocytes were found using the anti-Ki-67 antibody. This may explain the growth retardation in offspring exposed to gestational alcohol, showing that gestational alcohol exposure inhibits cell proliferation, aiding the diminished stature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endolithic sponges are key players in carbonate cycling on coral reef systems. While their bioerosion of reef framework is relatively well studied, their role in biogenic sediment generation is poorly understood. In this study, the sedimentary attributes and production rates of eight Caribbean endolithic sponge species were characterized. The findings revealed notable species‐specific variations in sediment production rates (range: 1.0–6.3 kg CaCO3 m−2 yr−1), alongside consistency in sediment characteristics (modal sizes ranging from 39 to 48 μm). The species‐specific rates were used to explore reef‐scale variations in sponge‐derived sediment generation across 50 reef sites in the Mexican Caribbean. Significant between‐site variability was observed, with estimated annual sediment production ranging from < 0.01 to 0.84 kg m−2 of reef. Production was primarily driven by sponge abundance, with discernible spatial variations in the contributions of different species, which could be related to variability in local environmental conditions. The rapidity at which these sediment producers can utilize dead coral substrates, coupled with their positive response to the changing marine environment, highlights the growing importance of these sponges in modern degraded Caribbean reef systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Panama disease, or Fusarium wilt, is a soil‐borne fungal disease of Musa spp. and the most severe threat to the banana industry and food security worldwide with no cure. Therefore, early detection of the pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) through reliable diagnostics will aid in implementing plant quarantine and containment measures to prevent the spread of this disease. In this study, a primary diagnostic procedure was developed based on the DNA sequences of the Foc‐TR4 SIX8a homologue, extracted from a piece of pseudostem tissue of M. acuminata Gros Michel Subgroup from Japan. A set of primers for the loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) reaction was designed. The developed specific marker can be used to accurately, rapidly, and reliably detect early diagnosis of Foc‐TR4 infection without cutting down the unconfirmed young plant in banana fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between perceptual ratings of hypernasality made during connected speech and velopharyngeal (VP) gap size measured in millimeters in the sagittal plane during sustained vowel production using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Method: A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was completed. A subgroup of 110 participants from another study with an Mage of 10.1 years presenting for management of VP insufficiency was included. Perceptual ratings of hypernasality during connected speech and measurement of gap size during sustained /i/ production on MRI were performed by raters blinded to the participants' medical and surgical history. Results: There was a moderate-to-strong, positive correlation (r = .61; p < .001) between hypernasality ratings and VP gap size measured on MRI using sustained /i/. The odds of a higher hypernasality rating increased as the gap size increased (odds ratio = 1.34; 95% CI [1.20, 1.49]; p < .001). The predicted probability for hypernasality ratings of none/minimal/mild steadily decreased as the gap size increased indicating that lower ratings of hypernasality were associated with smaller gap sizes. For the rating of "moderate" hypernasality, the predicted probability of the rating steadily increased up to 8 mm and then decreased as the gap size continued to increase. The predicted probability for a hypernasality rating of "severe" consistently increased as the gap size increased. Conclusions: Hypernasality ratings made at the connected speech level were significantly associated with VP gap size as measured during sustained vowel production. These findings suggest sustained vowel production elicited on MRI may adequately characterize VP gap size in the evaluation of VP insufficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uranyl sulfate minerals are the most rapidly expanding group of uranium minerals, with dozens of species described in the past decade from the localities of White Canyon, U.S.A. and Jáchymov, Czech Republic. Synthetic analogs of a suite of uranyl sulfate minerals were crystallized, characterized, and the standard-state enthalpies of formation ( Δ H f ∘ ) were determined. Synthetic lussierite is monoclinic, space group Cc, a = 9.2896, b = 28.685, c = 9.6155 Å, β = 93.504°. Synthetic geschieberite is orthorhombic, space group Pna21, a = 13.7408, b = 7.2713, c = 11.5844 Å. The standard-state enthalpies of formation from the binary oxides for lussierite, péligotite, shumwayite, geschieberite, and bluelizardite are –3214 ± 78, –2026 ± 33, –587 ± 22, –966.1 ± 10.9, and –2084 ± 21 kJ/mol, respectively, while the standard-state enthalpies of formation of each phase from its elements are –9743 ± 78, –7220 ± 33, –5255 ± 22, –3916 ± 20, and –7117 ± 21 kJ/mol, respectively. The Δ H f ∘ of péligotite was accurately estimated using the Δ H f ∘ of lussierite, bluelizardite, and literature values of the oxide components of each phase. This implies that estimates can be made accurately of the Δ H f ∘ of uranyl sulfates of minerals without synthetic analogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The eccentric implantation of pregnancies in the upper lateral aspect of the uterine cavity is poorly defined clinically. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether differentiating between uterine anomalies that can lead to cavitary distortion has implications for the management of these pregnancies. Methods: Eight cases of first-trimester eccentric pregnancy implantation within the endometrial cavity (study group) were retrospectively identified. For each woman in the study group, 10 women identified as having a first-trimester concentric pregnancy implantation during the first-trimester US examination were retrieved from our database (control group). After delivery or pregnancy demise, the presence of uterine anomalies was assessed by a 3D-US examination in all patients. Results: In the study group patients, an increased incidence of uterine anomalies (50.0% vs. 8.8%, p = 0.007) was found, compared to the controls. In the study group, the eccentric location persisted in half of the pregnancies (n = 4; 50%), whereas the other half migrated to a more centric location within the endometrial cavity (n = 4; 50%). The follow-up examination showed that all the early pregnancy demises occurred in cases where the pregnancy persisted at the eccentric location. Uterine malformations were also detected in all these cases. Conclusion: The data point to a significantly higher incidence of uterine anomalies in patients diagnosed with eccentric pregnancy implantation within the endometrial cavity. These results advocate for the value of differentiating between eccentric pregnancies in non-anomalous versus anomalous uteri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freshwater biodiversity is under great threat across the globe as evidenced by more severe declines relative to other types of ecosystems. Some of the main stressors responsible for these concerning trends is habitat fragmentation, degradation, and loss stemming from anthropogenic activities, including energy production, urbanization, agriculture, and resource extraction. Habitat protection and restoration both play an integral role in efforts to save freshwater biodiversity and associated ecosystem services from further decline. In this paper, we summarize the sources of threats associated with habitat fragmentation, degradation, and loss and then outline response options to protect and restore freshwater habitats. Specific response options are to legislate the protection of healthy and productive freshwater ecosystems, prioritize habitats for protection and restoration, enact durable protections, conserve habitat in a coordinated and integrated manner, engage in evidence-based restoration using an adaptive management approach, ensure that potential freshwater habitat alterations are mitigated or off-set, and future-proof protection and restoration actions. Such work should be done through a lens that engages and involves local community members. We identify three broad categories of obstacles that could arise during the implementation of the response options outlined: (a) scientific (e.g., inaccessible data or uncertainties), (b) institutional and management (e.g., capacity issues or differing goals across agencies), and (c) social and political (e.g., prioritizing economic development over conservation initiatives). The protection and restoration of habitats is key to Bend the Curve for freshwater biodiversity, with a comprehensive, connected, and coordinated effort of response options needed to protect intact habitats and restore fragmented, degraded, and lost habitats and the biodiversity and ecosystem services that they support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agencies focused on protected areas’ conservation and recreation require internal capacity-building to enhance their organizational resilience (the ability to adapt and persist). Yet, internal capacity-building is often underemphasized as agencies attend to external relationships. This omission can lessen an agency’s ability to adapt to emergent stressors and opportunities. Specifically, relationships within an agency’s groups (i.e., divisions)—the intra-organizational mesoscale between individuals and whole organizations—can increase an agency’s ability to efficiently build resilience-enhancing adaptive capacity. The U.S. National Park Service (NPS) adopted this mesoscale in their Urban Agenda goal of One NPS, or building resilience-enhancing, agency-wide internal relationships. We investigated intra-organizational relationships in this context, examining relationships within (i.e., bonds) and across (i.e., bridges) three NPS groups: parks (physical spaces), programs (community outreach), and offices (administrative functions). Pairing qualitative interviews with quantitative social network analysis in Detroit, Tucson, and Boston, we examined internal relationship prevalence, supports, and opportunities. The NPS has program and office presence in each of these three urban areas but different proximities to national park units, which are the typical face of the NPS. Across these urban areas, we found that the parks group exhibits more bonds (park-to-park relationships), the programs group exhibits more bridges (program-to-park or program-to-office), and the offices group exhibits a mixture of bonds and bridges. To further One NPS and organizational resilience, cultivating bridges among the three groups is key. This investigation may inform a more strategic focusing of an agency’s limited resources. We highlight five directions for protected area managers’ consideration toward this aim: build bridges locally among groups; consider group composition when identifying divisions (i.e., programs appear more heterogeneous or dissimilar from each other than do the park and office groups); reflect on parks’ centrality to NPS identity and relationships; seek organizational structures supportive of relationship development; and focus on the organizational mesoscale for resilience-enhancing adaptive capacity. These directions for strategic focusing of organizational resources are based in the longstanding work of the NPS but ultimately transcend this single agency, providing targeted guidance for protected area agencies in building internal capacity toward external, public-oriented goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the Mitchell Institute Physics Enhancement Program (MIPEP), which aims to support high school physics teachers who have little to no background in the subject. The program, run by the physics faculty at Texas A&M University, focuses on increasing teachers' physics content knowledge, improving their confidence in teaching physics, and introducing research-based instructional strategies. MIPEP includes intensive two-week sessions with content-focused instruction, inquiry-based labs, and enrichment activities. The program has shown positive impacts on participants' knowledge and confidence, and it is suggested that similar programs could be implemented by other physics departments to improve physics instruction at the high school level. [Extracted from the article]

Prenatal tobacco exposure (PTE) and tobacco–cannabis coexposure (PTCE) co-occur with negative maternal emotional functioning (termed prenatal risks) and together increase risk for child regulatory problems at early school age (ESA). Little is known about developmental processes in early childhood that may mediate this association. We examined two hypothesized mediational processes linking prenatal risks to ESA emotion regulation (ER) and lability–negativity; parasympathetic functioning at toddler age and chronic risk reflected by continued postnatal maternal negative emotional functioning (i.e., depression, anger/hostility, and emotion dysregulation) and substance exposure. Congruent with differential susceptibility theory, we examined interactions between sensitive parenting and toddler parasympathetic functioning predicting ESA ER. Finally, we explored the role of child sex as a moderator. Mothers (N = 247; 53% male infants; 51% Black, 31% White, 19% Hispanic, and 8% other or mixed race) were recruited in the first trimester of pregnancy into one of three groups: PTE (n = 81), PTCE (n = 97), and no substance exposure (n = 69) matched on age and education. Substance exposure was assessed using multiple methods, maternal negative emotional functioning via self-reports, parenting with observations, and child ER using teacher, maternal, and lab assessor reports. Results supported a chronic risk pathway with less support for a parasympathetic pathway. Toddlers who demonstrated respiratory sinus arrhythmia withdrawal to frustration were susceptible to the positive context of sensitive parenting in predicting higher ER. Results emphasize the importance of chronicity of postnatal risks including substance exposure and evaluating the differential impact of positive environments for children with substance exposure. Public Significance Statement: Prenatal coexposure to cannabis and tobacco is increasingly common and is associated with poorer emotion regulation at early school age. The current study evaluated a chronic postnatal risk pathway and a parasympathetic nervous system pathway from prenatal coexposure and associated risks to school age emotion regulation. Results provided support for chronic postnatal maternal mood and substance exposure risk pathways and for interactions between parasympathetic nervous system functioning and sensitive caregiving in associations with school age emotion regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both federal government and civil society organization data point to consistently rising incidents of antisemitic narratives and acts across Canada. In spite of this, antisemitic hate crime has not been the focus of any academic research here, some would argue because Jews are not typically thought to be an at-risk community. Rather, the Jewish community is thought to occupy a relatively privileged place in society which shields them from bias motivated attacks. Countering this narrative, our study, based in Ontario and Quebec, reveals that Jewish individuals and institutions are highly vulnerable to discursive, physical, and property violations. Many of those we spoke with felt embattled by the narrative attacks that rendered the community vulnerable to corollary physical attacks. Of particular significance are the enabling images of Jews that equate "Jewish privilege" with excessive power and control. We explore these themes, concluding with calls for strategies intended to counter hateful narratives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored how participatory disciplinary systems in democratic (open) schools reflect distinct models of students' collective rights to participate in decision making embedded in different patterns of legal socialisation. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with students, educators, and parents from three democratic schools in Israel, the study revealed contradictory approaches. One student participation model subscribes to a strictly legalistic approach, grounded in a criminal justice discourse and encompassing all aspects of the school's everyday life as well as after-school hours. A second model of participatory practices operates a flexible disciplinary system derived from mediative and therapeutic principles, applying procedural rules only in severe cases. The differences between the models indicate that participation does not inherently shape the contours of schools' disciplinary systems. They challenge the dichotomous discourse in the literature on participation rights and legal socialisation, contrasting punitive vs. participative disciplinary methods and coercive vs. consensual approaches towards rules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a review and visualization of findings over the last 30 years related to the orgasm gap between men and women in heterosexual encounters. We describe and compare techniques commonly used for measuring orgasm occurrence and frequency patterns, and we summarize the contrast in orgasm rates shown in these studies across different behavior sets and social contexts. Of central importance, women’s orgasm rates increase dramatically with the inclusion of behaviors that provide specific stimulation to the clitoris, revealing this gap is largely driven by social dynamics rather than strictly biological mechanisms. Disparities between men and women are especially pronounced in contexts with low levels of partnered sexual experience, partner familiarity, and relationship commitment. Women are also more likely to experience orgasm when masturbating or partnered with women than when partnered with men. Ultimately, we echo calls for a biopsychosocial approach to sexual enjoyment and well-being, and we provide recommendations for future research, including increased precision in measurement and reporting, diversifying sampling concentrations, and assessing life course trajectories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMethodsResultsConclusionAs primary care (PC) clinics seek to integrate behavioral health (BH) services into patient care, it is crucial to understand the experiences of the clinic team and the impact on workflow and well-being. This study was designed to identify perspectives and experiences of nurse practitioner-led PC teams as they implemented a behavioral health integration (BHI) model into their Federally Qualified Health Center PC practices.We conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with staff members at three clinic sites that implemented BHI. Interviewees were asked questions about the benefits and challenges encountered in the new BHI workflow, the dynamics of the warm hand-off, the tools and resources they used and desired, and the changes they would like to see to promote efficient workflows.We interviewed 21 staff members during May and June of 2020. An analysis of the qualitative data showed the most frequently reported experiences and attitudes focused on (a) the availability of behavioral health consultants (BHC); (b) procedural uses of the warm hand-off; (c) the organization’s productivity goals; and (d) desired tools and resources that are generally unavailable to the clinicians but could make a difference to patient care.Our results can assist FQHCs and similar organizations to achieve both BHI and the Quintuple aim. Integrating BH services into PC clinics is valuable and may mitigate clinician-staff burnout. However, PC organizations desiring to integrate new sustainable care models should consider involving staff in every phase of the transitional process phase to increase staff buy-in and staff rapport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objectives Methods Results and Conclusions Implications Instances of academic dishonesty are common in online learning environments because difficulties in their detection result in considerably low degrees of risks. However, if not identified, the noise introduced by dishonest learners in MOOCs' clickstream data could lead to biased results and conclusions in scientific research.This study aimed to identify and quantify the most frequent undesirable behaviour employed by students to earn completion certificates.We employed descriptive and inferential statistics to analyse a Brazilian Moodle‐based MOOC platform's clickstream data. The database had information related to 113 MOOCs, and 297,687 students who obtained 109,050 certificates from 2016 to 2023. The MOOCs were organised in two groups, with and without a minimum time‐on‐course restriction.Amongst the issued certificates of MOOCs without the minimum time‐on‐course restriction, around 51% were obtained via Fast certificate issuance, while for MOOCs with the restriction, only 2% of certificates were obtained this way. We conclude that this difference in course configuration is key in explaining the identified behaviours.The results indicate that the number of instances of undesirable behaviours in MOOCs might be much higher than reported, posing a potential threat to this educational model. Also, the nature of this behaviour is dependent on course configurations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the critical examination of prior research on PVDF/cellulose membranes and their applicability in water treatment contexts. Raw water sources are typically laden with contaminants, organic compounds, soil particulates, and humic substances, all of which contribute to membrane fouling. The challenge escalates when membranes lack adequate hydrophilicity, resulting in heightened costs for water treatment, notably in regions with swampy or peaty water sources. Despite the potential of hydrophilic biopolymers like cellulose as a solution, their complex and crystalline structure poses handling difficulties. This review aims to deepen our understanding of the significant potential of PVDF/cellulose membranes as sustainable and effective solutions for water treatment. These membranes showcase promising attributes such as high water flux and straightforward production processes. Our goal is to promote the broader utilization of this widely available biopolymer to enhance the performance and sustainability of PVDF membrane filtration in water treatment applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than a century after the first description of Alzheimer's disease (AD), the road to a cure for this complex and heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder has been paved by countless descriptive hypotheses and successive clinical trial failures. Auspiciously, the era of genome-wide association studies revolutionized the classical "neurocentric" view of AD by providing clues that brain-resident immune cells (i.e., microglia and astrocytes) are also key players in the pathological and clinical trajectory of this neurodegenerative disorder. Considering that the intercommunication among neurons, astrocytes, and microglia is fundamental for the functional organization of the brain, it is evident that the disruption of the proper functioning of this "triad" could contribute to the neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative events that occur in the AD brain. Importantly, recent scientific progress in the burgeoning field of immunometabolism, a crossroad between metabolism and immune response, shed light on the importance of metabolic reprogramming of brain-resident immune cells in AD pathology. In this sense, the present review is aimed to summarize and discuss the current knowledge on the metabolic patterns of brain-resident immune cells during the AD continuum, putting a special focus on glucose, amino acids, and lipid metabolism. Changing the "old" picture of AD pathological basis by integrating the role of brain-resident immune cells it is imperative to establish new and feasible therapeutic interventions able to curb neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative processes, and consequently cognitive deterioration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]