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Background: The modern wound dressing is produced to absorb fluid and protect against external contamination. The choice of which wound dressing to apply after surgery is usually based on local tradition. There are various impervious dressings on the market. Even if the wound is sterile before application, there will be subsequent recolonisation of skin microbiota. Previous studies suggest that a high bacterial load on the skin hampers wound healing and might be a risk for SSI. Aim: The aim was to compare bacterial recolonisation on the shoulder under three different wound dressings, 48 h after sterile preparation of the skin as in preparation for surgery. Method: In 25 healthy volunteers, a standard pre-surgical skin disinfection for a deltopectoral incision was made on the left shoulder with 0.5% chlorhexidine solution in 70% ethanol. Three different wound dressings were then placed on the shoulder, and 48 h later the skin beneath each dressing was swabbed, subsequently cultured and bacterial density analysed using viable count. Results: The bacterial recolonisation under air-dry (gauze) dressing was significantly lower (p =.0001) compared to semipermeable and occlusive wound dressings. Conclusion: Choosing a less permeable wound dressing may lead to an increased bacterial load on the skin during the first 48 h after surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrochemical performance of cathode materials in Li‐ion batteries is reflected in macroscopic observables such as the capacity, the voltage, and the state of charge (SOC). However, the physical origin of performance parameters are atomistic processes that scale up to a macroscopic picture. Thus, revealing the function and failure of electrochemical devices requires a multiscale (and ‐time) approach using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. In this work, we combine near‐edge X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (NEXAFS) to determine the chemical binding state of transition metals in LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (NCM622), electrochemical strain microscopy to understand the Li‐ion mobility in such materials, and nanoindentation to relate the mechanical properties exhibited by the material to the chemical state and ion mobility. Strikingly, a clear correlation between the chemical binding, the mechanical properties, and the Li‐ion mobility is found. Thereby, the significant relation of chemo‐mechanical properties of NCM622 on a local and global scale is clearly demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose This study aimed to develop and test a novel model integrating social-learning and self-medication frameworks by examining the association between self-efficacy to resist alcohol and other drug (AOD) use and daily AOD use and unhealthy drinking risk among trauma-exposed sexual minority women (SMW) and transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people. We examined whether minority stressors moderated these associations. Methods Data were from 57 trauma-exposed SMW and TGD people who participated in a 14-day daily diary study. Multilevel binary logistic models and ordinal logistic models were employed to examine associations between self-efficacy to resist AOD use and daily AOD use and unhealthy drinking risk at within- and between-person levels. We assessed same- and cross-level interactions between daily self-efficacy to resist AOD use and minority stressors in predicting AOD use and unhealthy drinking risk within the same 24-hour period (i.e. standardized as 6 pm to 6 pm ; hereafter referred to as "same-day"). Results Self-efficacy to resist AOD use was associated with lower AOD use and unhealthy drinking risk. Minority stressors were associated with daily AOD use. Among those who experienced higher (vs. lower) average sexual minority stressors over the 2-week daily diary period, higher-than-usual self-efficacy to resist AOD use was less protective in decreasing risk of same-day unhealthy drinking. Conclusions Interventions aiming to mitigate AOD use and unhealthy drinking risk by bolstering self-efficacy to resist AOD use should consider the impact of recent cumulative exposure to sexual minority stressors in this population. Further, policy efforts are needed to reduce perpetuation of stigma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the book "Spiritual Dimensions in the Music of Edmund Rubbra" by Lucinda Cradduck, which explores the spiritual aspects of composer Edmund Rubbra's music. The book delves into Rubbra's idiosyncratic style and his complex spiritual makeup, shedding light on his lesser-known works and influences. Cradduck's monograph provides a comprehensive analysis of Rubbra's music, drawing connections between his biographical background and the spiritual themes in his compositions, offering new insights into twentieth-century British music. [Extracted from the article]

The Berry phase is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics with profound implications for understanding topological properties of quantum systems. This tutorial provides a comprehensive introduction to the Berry phase, beginning with the essential mathematical framework required to grasp its significance. We explore the intrinsic link between the emergence of a non-trivial Berry phase and the presence of topological characteristics in quantum systems, showing the connection between the Berry phase and the band structure as well as the phase's gauge-invariant nature during cyclic evolutions. The tutorial delves into various topological effects arising from the Berry phase, such as the quantum, anomalous, and spin Hall effects, which exemplify how these quantum phases manifest in observable phenomena. We then extend our discussion to cover the transport properties of topological insulators, elucidating their unique behaviour rooted in the Berry phase physics. This tutorial aims at equipping its readers with a robust understanding of the basic theory underlying the Berry phase and of its pivotal role in the realm of topological quantum phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Police workforce retention has become a persistent managerial concern. The public response to recent events of police misconduct have fuelled the perception that police may be seeking other career paths following the murder of George Floyd in 2020. Despite growing evidence, current research has been unable to ascertain what conditions may prompt officers to voluntarily separate from police work following Floyd's murder, or whether the impact varies across demographic groups. Drawing upon a survey of over 600 police officers across eight police departments in the United States, the current inquiry examines what percent of officers reported reconsidering their career following the George Floyd incident, and whether demographic information and occupational attitudes could predict whether officers reconsidered their careers. Findings indicated that female officers were more likely to strongly agree that it made them reconsider their careers, and that instrumental concerns (i.e., public support, personal liability, localized fallout, and concern over media attention) were also influential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objective: Venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), is a common complication in craniotomy patients and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The duration of surgery is a known risk factor. Other factors such as positioning and tumor entity have hardly been investigated or are controversial. In two pilot studies, the determination of plasma D-dimer concentration led to a high detection rate of DVT, while the use of intermittent pneumatic venous compression (IPC) drastically reduced the incidence of VTE. In the present study we investigated the efficacy of the two approaches, either alone or in combination, in a large patient cohort. Methods: 1759 patients who underwent elective craniotomy between 2009 and 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The staggered use of D-dimer determination and intraoperative use of IPC resulted in 3 groups: Group 1: no procedure; Group 2: D-dimer evaluation; Group 3: IPC and D-dimer evaluation. If the D-dimer level was ≥ 2 mg/l (Fibrinogen equivalent units; FEU), venous ultrasound was performed. Age, gender, tumor entity, duration and extent of surgery, patient positioning, type of VTE were also recorded and analyzed. Results: The introduction of postoperative D-dimer evaluation increased the rate of detection of thrombosis from 1.7% in group 1 to 22.6% in group 2. The addition of IPC reduced the rate of thrombosis to 4.4%. Age, gender and patient positioning did not affect the rate of VTE. We were able to confirm the duration of surgery as an individual risk factor and showed that WHO grade 4 tumors and metastasis have an increased VTE risk. Conclusions: If D-Dimer levels are not analyzed routinely about 20% of craniotomy patients suffer from a clinically silent thrombosis. Each with the risk of fate PE. Intraoperative use of IPC during craniotomy dramatically reduces the risk of VTE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Robotic transoral mucosectomy of the base of tongue was introduced as a diagnostic procedure in patients treated for head and neck cancer with unknown primary (CUP), increasing the identification rate of the primary tumour. For the treatment of CUP, a considerable percentage of patients require adjuvant (chemo)radiation. The aim of this study was to investigate swallowing outcomes among CUP patients after TORS and adjuvant treatment. Subjects and Methods: A systematic review was carried out on studies investigating the impact of TORS and adjuvant treatment on swallowing‐related outcomes among CUP patients In addition, a cross‐sectional study was carried out on swallowing problems (measured using the SWAL‐QOL questionnaire) among CUP patients in routine care who visited the outpatient clinic 1–5 years after TORS and adjuvant treatment. Results: The systematic review (6 studies; n = 98) showed that most patients returned to a full oral diet. The cross‐sectional study (n = 12) showed that all patients were able to return to a full oral diet, nevertheless, 50% reported swallowing problems in daily life (SWAL‐QOL total score ≥14). Conclusion: Although after TORS and adjuvant treatment for CUP a full oral diet can be resumed, patients still experience problems with eating and drinking in daily life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemotherapeutic agent vincristine is commonly used for a variety of hematologic cancers, as well as solid tumors of the head and neck, bronchial carcinoma, as part of the procarbazine, lomustine and vincristine (PCV) regimen, for glioma. Damage to nerve tissue (neuropathy) is often dose-limiting and restricts treatment. Nimodipine is a calcium antagonist that has also shown neuroprotective properties in preliminary studies. In this approach here, we investigated the effects of the combination of vincristine and nimodipine on three cancer cell lines (A549, SAS and LN229) and neuronal cells (RN33B, SW10). Fluorescence microscopy, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays and Western blot analyses were used. Nimodipine was able to enhance the cell death effects of vincristine in all tumor cells, while neuronal cells were protected and showed less cell death. There was an opposite change in the protein levels of Ak strain transforming/protein kinase B (AKT) in tumor cells (down) and neuronal cells (up), with simultaneous increased protein levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein (CREB) in all cell lines. In the future, this approach may improve tumor response to chemotherapy and reduce unwanted side effects such as neuropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract\nPoints of interestDisabled refugee women can experience a lack of possibilities for social participation in their new country, which can impact their health and well-being. Intersectional approaches that acknowledge the participatory needs of disabled refugees are missing in policies and regulations. This study highlights the capabilities that disabled refugee women use to construct their everyday lives and to experience social participation. For more than one year, interviews and participant observation were carried out with three disabled refugee women. Various qualitative methods have been used to understand the women’s everyday lives in an urban area of Sweden. Through an intersectional lens, unequal conditions that affect social participation and access to the health and social care systems were identified, as were individual resources that women use to overcome barriers that would keep them from participating in the new society.Disabled refugee women’s experiences can offer unique perspectives needed to better understand health and social participation.Participation barriers and opportunities from disabled refugee women’s perspective can be explored by paying attention to everyday practices.This study highlights simultaneous discrimination that leads to inequality and exclusion, such as gender, migration, and disability.Disabled refugee women’s stories illustrate the challenges and capabilities that are neglected in discussions about health and social services.Disabled refugee women’s experiences can offer unique perspectives needed to better understand health and social participation.Participation barriers and opportunities from disabled refugee women’s perspective can be explored by paying attention to everyday practices.This study highlights simultaneous discrimination that leads to inequality and exclusion, such as gender, migration, and disability.Disabled refugee women’s stories illustrate the challenges and capabilities that are neglected in discussions about health and social services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite increasing incidence of impacted fetal head at cesarean birth and associated injury, it is unclear which techniques are most effective for prevention and management. A high quality evidence review in accordance with international reporting standards is currently lacking. To address this gap, we aimed to identify, assess, and synthesize studies comparing techniques to prevent or manage impacted fetal head at cesarean birth prior to or at full cervical dilatation. Material and Methods: We searched MEDLINE, Emcare, Embase and Cochrane databases up to 1 January 2023 (PROSPERO: CRD420212750016). Included were randomized controlled trials (any size) and non‐randomized comparative studies (n ≥ 30 in each arm) comparing techniques or adjunctive measures to prevent or manage impacted fetal head at cesarean birth. Following screening and data extraction, we assessed risk of bias for individual studies using RoB2 and ROBINS‐I, and certainty of evidence using GRADE. We synthesized data using meta‐analysis where appropriate, including sensitivity analyses excluding data published in potential predatory journals or at risk of retraction. Results: We identified 24 eligible studies (11 randomized and 13 non‐randomized) including 3558 women, that compared vaginal disimpaction, reverse breech extraction, the Patwardhan method and/or the Fetal Pillow®. GRADE certainty of evidence was low or very low for all 96 outcomes across seven reported comparisons. Pooled analysis mostly showed no or equivocal differences in outcomes across comparisons of techniques. Although some maternal outcomes suggested differences between techniques (eg risk ratio of 3.41 [95% CI: 2.50–4.66] for uterine incision extension with vaginal disimpaction vs. reverse breech extraction), these were based on unreliable pooled estimates given very low GRADE certainty and, in some cases, additional risk of bias introduced by data published in potential predatory journals or at risk of retraction. Conclusions: The current weaknesses in the evidence base mean that no firm recommendations can be made about the superiority of any one impacted fetal head technique over another, indicating that high quality training is needed across the range of techniques. Future studies to improve the evidence base are urgently required, using a standard definition of impacted fetal head, agreed maternal and neonatal outcome sets for impacted fetal head, and internationally recommended reporting standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attitudes towards inclusion (ATI) are regarded as an important aspect for the implementation of inclusive education. Yet, explicit measures of ATI have some limitations. Single-target implicit association tests (ST-IAT) provide an opportunity to an implicit ATI measure based on differences in reaction times. However, this can be a time-consuming procedure. The present study is a replication and extension of the study 'Implicitly measuring attitudes towards inclusive education: a new attitude test based on single-target implicit associations' by investigating reliability of a shortened version of the ST-IAT Inclusion. Prior studies did not investigate the reliability continuously, nor did they consider different ways of calculating the ST-IAT effect size (D-score). In this study, data from 594 university students are analysed to evaluate the reliability of a shortened ST-IAT Inclusion. Results show that the reliability of the shortened ST-IAT is good and in line with findings on reliability of other ST-IAT procedures. However, the difference between several D-score procedures was rather marginal. Altogether, the shortened ST-IAT Inclusion can provide an economic and reliable measure for ATI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this Letter, we provide three dimensional micromagnetic simulations describing the nonvolatile magnetization control of the critical current of a superconductor–proximity-modified superconductor–superconductor junction by initializing and training its magnetization state in an external magnetic field, the experimental demonstration of which had been reported earlier. In the present work, we develop a microscopic explanation for the observed general behavior of the reduced critical current Ic in states of high magnetization M. We are able to reproduce the non-monotonous behavior of I c (M) and can clearly correlate the discrete jumps in I c (M) with flips of single or few magnetic domains in granular cobalt. We show that both the three-dimensional modeling and the grain size distribution are important to replicate the experimental observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

White oats are an important species because they are included in different production systems and because of the need to develop sustainable practices, minimizing the adverse effects resulting from the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers on human and environmental health. Therefore, the objective of the present work was to evaluate the physiological, sanitary quality and pesticide residues in oat seeds managed under different fungicide applications. The experimental design used was randomized blocks, following a 3 x 6 factorial scheme, for three white oat cultivars and six fungicide application conditions, respectively, with four replications. In the laboratory, analyzes of germination, vigor, pathology and pesticide residues were carried out. Analysis of variance, Scott & Knott mean comparison test and regression were performed. In view of the results obtained, the physiological quality analysis of seeds indicated high levels of germination and vigor, even under conditions of high occurrence of pathogens. Fungicide residues were found from the second application and above the maximum limit after five applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article introduces an experimental study of glottal stops that are generated by h aspiré (H) in French (il [ʔ] hoche la tête). To date the phenomenon is merely mentioned in passing, and evidence only comes from native speaker intuitions and cursory personal observation. Participants pronounced verbs that either did (hocher) or did not (aimer) begin with an H, whereby the left context was controlled for: the preceding word could end in a vowel (tu hoches/aimes), in a consonant (il hoche/aime) or in a liaison consonant (LC nous hochons/aimons). Results confirm the observation made in the literature regarding the high variability of H: lexical (elision is much more frequent in j'harcèle than in j'hais), inter-speaker (some participants chose unelided je for 10 out of 12 H verbs, while others only for 4 H verbs) and intra-speaker (participants pronounced vous [z] hissez with liaison, while they chose je hisse in a multiple choice-based pretest). Results also confirmed that H is indeed a glottal stop creator: glottal stops occur much more often before H-initial than before V-initial words. The glottal stop rate also depended on the left context: while LC + H (nous hochons) and C + H (il hoche) are statistically indistinguishable, both are significantly distinct from V + H (tu hoches). This suggests that glottal stop insertion is sensitive to all types of preceding consonants, whether they are pronounced (C + H) or not (LC + H). This result is relevant in the debate on French liaison where it was claimed that (some) LCs are epenthetic, that is absent from phonological computation when unpronounced: this view is challenged by the experimental evidence. On the analytic side, the article argues that all glottal stops that occur stand in Strong Position, i.e. word-initially or after a consonant {#,C}__ (Ségéral, Philippe & Tobias Scheer. 2001. La Coda-Miroir. Bulletin de la Société de Linguistique de Paris 96. 107–152). The word-initial position is in fact domain-initial, and it is a long standing observation in the literature that H sets off its word into a separate domain. Thus even glottal stops in V + H (tu hoches) that appear to occur in intervocalic position may in fact be domain-initial V + [H]. The question then is what kind of domain could be responsible for the (rare) presence of glottal stops in V + V (tu aimes): such a domain V + [V] cannot stem from H, nor can it be of morpho-syntactic origin. It is argued that these domains are production planning domains in the sense of Wagner (2012. Locality in phonology and production planning. McGill Working Papers in Linguistics 22. 1–18 and following). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Yerba mate research is plentiful and interacts with different fields of knowledge. • Google Scholar lists 4200 documents, of which 994 were published in the last 5 years. • Bibliometry revealed dominant sources, cooperating countries and keywords usage. • Argentina and Brazil are the prominent countries in patented products and technologies. • Trends observed in cultivation, processing, extraction, new applications and health. Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is native to the subtropical region of South America and industrialized into traditional tea-like beverages such as chimarrão, tererê and mate tea, known for numerous health benefits. Over the years, scientific interest about this plant increased significantly due to the growing demand for food products rich in bioactive compounds. Thus, in the present work, we analyzed the scientific literature using two different approaches. First, we made an overview of the history of the published works on the crop using bibliometric analysis. Secondly, we covered the recent advances over the last five years, highlighting contributions related to the cultivation, processing, extraction of bioactive compounds, applications and health aspects. A brief review about patents is also presented. Moreover, we discuss and propose possible paths for promising research lines for the upcoming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Annually, the French Ministry of Health funds clinical research projects based on a national call for projects. Since 2013, the Ministry has prioritized funding of primary care. Projects selected for funding are made public without distinguishing the specific area of research. The objective of this study was to identify and describe the evolution of the primary care research projects funded by the Ministry of Health between 2013 and 2019. Method: We reviewed all of the 1796 medical research projects funded between 2013 and 2019 and categorized projects as primary care projects by using a list of specific keywords. This list was established through two approaches: (1) selected by an expert committee, the RECaP primary care working group, and (2) using an automated textual analysis of published articles in the field. The keywords were used to screen the titles of the medical research projects funded. The abstracts (at www.clinicaltrials.gov) or details (from project leaders) were then analyzed by two independent reviewers to determine true primary care projects. Results: Finally, 49 primary care projects were identified, representing 2.7% of all medical research projects funded, without any significant change over the period. These projects were predominantly interventional (69%), with a median number of patients expected per project of 902. Conclusion: Despite the prioritization of primary care research in 2013 by the French ministry of health, the number and proportion of projects funded remains low, with no significant change over the years. Trial registration: Not applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their user-friendliness and reliability, biometric systems have taken a central role in everyday digital identity management for all kinds of private, financial and governmental applications with increasing security requirements. A central security aspect of unsupervised biometric authentication systems is the presentation attack detection (PAD) mechanism, which defines the robustness to fake or altered biometric features. Artifacts like photos, artificial fingers, face masks and fake iris contact lenses are a general security threat for all biometric modalities. The Biometric Evaluation Center of the Institute of Safety and Security Research (ISF) at the University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg has specialized in the development of a near-infrared (NIR)-based contact-less detection technology that can distinguish between human skin and most artifact materials. This technology is highly adaptable and has already been successfully integrated into fingerprint scanners, face recognition devices and hand vein scanners. In this work, we introduce a cutting-edge, miniaturized near-infrared presentation attack detection (NIR-PAD) device. It includes an innovative signal processing chain and an integrated distance measurement feature to boost both reliability and resilience. We detail the device's modular configuration and conceptual decisions, highlighting its suitability as a versatile platform for sensor fusion and seamless integration into future biometric systems. This paper elucidates the technological foundations and conceptual framework of the NIR-PAD reference platform, alongside an exploration of its potential applications and prospective enhancements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We show the control of the critical current Ic of a superconductor–superconductor/ferromagnet–superconductor [S-(S/F)-S] type switch by the magnetization state of the F. The inverse proximity effect of a S/F bilayer is used to define the weak link and hence the maximum critical current of the junction. The magnetization of the F lead is set by an external magnetic field. We show that the critical current in zero field depends on the remanent magnetization state via stray-field effects and thereby allows for a post-manufacturing control of the junction's properties, in particular the tunability between a maximal critical current and a full suppression of Ic without applying a persistent magnetic field. We propose a simplified model based on the relative orientation of magnetic domains that explains our findings qualitatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectiveDesignStudy sampleResultsConclusionThis study aimed to investigate the connection between psychological factors and postoperative tinnitus in vestibular schwannoma (VS) patients following retrosigmoid microsurgery.Cross-sectional study.Ninety-three VS patients participated, completing questionnaires on demographics, tinnitus severity (THI-12), personality traits (TIPI-G), dizziness impact (DHI), perceived health benefits (GBI), somatisation tendencies (SOMS-2), and psychological distress (HADS-D). Our analysis involved Mann-Whitney U-tests, Spearman’s rank-order correlations, and false discovery rate correction.Most participants reported postoperative tinnitus (77/93), with 41 experiencing it preoperatively. Emotional stability correlated negatively with tinnitus presence, while tinnitus severity was associated with emotional distress. Preoperative somatisation tendencies were also positively linked to tinnitus severity. Postoperative Tinnitus was further linked to reduced perceived health benefits and increased anxiety and depression levels. Notably, age and gender showed no significant associations.This study uncovers the interplay between postoperative tinnitus and psychological factors in VS patients, highlighting emotional and cognitive dimensions. Tailored psychological interventions addressing tinnitus‘s psychosomatic impact may enhance patients quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accumulated evidence suggests that exercise training exerts beneficial effects on people with congenital heart conditions. These findings are predominantly derived from small, single-centre exercise trials conducted in outpatient rehabilitation facilities. In recent years, the delivery of exercise interventions remotely has increased through digital communications technology (telerehabilitation). However, very little research to date has been conducted into the efficacy of telerehabilitation in people with a congenital heart condition. Aims: To evaluate the effects of a telehealth-delivered exercise intervention in people with a history of a surgical biventricular repair due to a congenital heart condition. Methods: One hundred eligible adolescent (≥ 16 years) and adult participants living with a complex biventricular congenital heart condition will be recruited from four Australian sites and randomised to either (1) a 16-week telehealth-delivered combined (aerobic and resistance) exercise training programme of moderate-to-vigorous intensity or (2) usual care (control group), in a 1:1 allocation, with an 8-month follow-up. Outcomes of interest: The primary outcome will be the change in aerobic capacity expressed as peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak). Secondary outcomes will include changes in vascular function, muscle oxygenation, metabolic profile, body composition and musculoskeletal fitness, neurohormonal activation, neurocognitive function, physical activity levels, dietary and nutritional status, and quality of life. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline, 16 weeks, and 12 months (to determine longer-term maintenance potential). Discussion: If found to be efficacious, telerehabilitation may be an alternative option for delivering exercise, improving health outcomes, and increasing accessibility to exercise programmes. Efficacy data is required to quantify the clinical significance of this delivery mode of exercise. Trial registration: ACTRN12622000050752 Trial registration date: 17 January 2022 Trial registration URL: https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=382635&showOriginal=true&isReview=true Trial registry name: Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary In this teaching unit, students use their own digital devices to determine the concentration of a dye in a sports drink. The method is gradually developed and carried out by learners, building their cognitive and practical foundations. A classic spectrophotometer is compared to a self‐developed “smartphone photometer” setup. The teaching unit suggests that a deeper understanding is gained when students work out the necessary procedure and measurement principle themselves before becoming familiar with the actual device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel isomorphous tetranuclear complexes, [(dppf)Cu(μ3,η2 : 2 : 2‐E2{CpMo(CO)2}2]BF4 [E=P (1), As (4), Sb (5), (dppf=1,1′‐bis‐(diphenylphosphino)‐ferrocene)] and [(dppf)Cu(μ3,η2 : 2 : 2‐PE{CpMo(CO)2}2]BF4 [E=As (2), Sb(3)] were synthesized from the reactions between [(dppf)Cu(MeCN)2][BF4] and tetrahedral molybdenum complexes containing unsubstituted homo‐ and hetero‐diatomic group‐15 elements [(μ,η2 : 2‐E2{CpMo(CO)2}2] [E=P (A), As (D), Sb (E)] and [(μ,η2 : 2‐PE{CpMo(CO)2}2] [E=As (B), Sb (C)], respectively. In all these products, the {Mo2E2} or {Mo2PE} moieties coordinate the Cu(I) center via a rare side‐on η2‐coordination mode. The X‐ray structure analyses of [(dppf)Cu(μ3,η2 : 2 : 1‐PSb{CpMo(CO)2}2][BF4] demonstrate, for the first time, the utilization of an η1‐coordination mode for the ligand complex C to coordinate to the Cu(I) center. All the products were characterized by X‐ray crystallography, NMR and IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and elemental analysis. Electrochemical studies also revealed the formation of 1–5, and, further, to understand the structure and bonding of the products, theoretical calculations using density functional theory (DFT) were conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary care actors can play a major role in developing and promoting access to Self-Management Education and Support (SMES) programmes for people with chronic disease. We reviewed studies on SMES programmes in primary care by focusing on the following dimensions: models of SMES programmes in primary care, SMES team's composition, and participants' characteristics. Methods: For this mixed-methods rapid review, we searched the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases to identify articles in English and French that assessed a SMES programme in primary care for four main chronic diseases (diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease and/or respiratory chronic disease) and published between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2021. We excluded articles on non-original research and reviews. We evaluated the quality of the selected studies using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. We reported the study results following the PRISMA guidelines. Results: We included 68 studies in the analysis. In 46/68 studies, a SMES model was described by focusing mainly on the organisational dimension (n = 24). The Chronic Care Model was the most used organisational model (n = 9). Only three studies described a multi-dimension model. In general, the SMES team was composed of two healthcare providers (mainly nurses), and partnerships with community actors were rarely reported. Participants were mainly patients with only one chronic disease. Only 20% of the described programmes took into account multimorbidity. Our rapid review focused on two databases and did not identify the SMES programme outcomes. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the limited implication of community actors and the infrequent inclusion of multimorbidity in the SMES programmes, despite the recommendations to develop a more interdisciplinary approach in SMES programmes. This rapid review identified areas of improvement for SMES programme development in primary care, especially the privileged place of nurses in their promotion. Trial registration: PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021268290. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Police workforce management has persisted as a major organizational concern. Numerous compelling historical and organizational factors have contributed to smaller numbers of qualified or even interested applicants for police agencies to choose from, and disrupted police career longevity and even police services overall. To address their staffing needs, a growing number of organizations have increasingly shifted their focus to recruiting existing sworn and experienced officers from other departments. While there is increasing concern about officers transferring across organizations, little research has examined officer intentions to move laterally within the police profession, why officers choose to stay or leave, and the implications for staffing. Using theories of cross-organizational turnover from career psychology and a robust sample of more than 600 officers from 8 police agencies, this paper explores the impact of compensation, organizational values, perceptions of supervisors, and career advancement opportunities on officers' intentions to pursue lateral transfers. Results indicated that compensation had limited influence on intentions to leave and that organizational characteristics exhibited much stronger relationships. Suggestions for keeping officers and assisting recruits in finding their potential organizational fit, impressions of the trajectory of this trend, and implications for theory and practice are offered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foraging animals optimize feeding decisions by adjusting both common and rare behavioral patterns. Here, we characterize the relationship between an animal's arousal state and a rare decision to leave a patch of bacterial food. Using long-term tracking and behavioral state classification, we find that food leaving decisions in Caenorhabditis elegans are coupled to arousal states across multiple timescales. Leaving emerges probabilistically over minutes from the high arousal roaming state, but is suppressed during the low arousal dwelling state. Immediately before leaving, animals have a brief acceleration in speed that appears as a characteristic signature of this behavioral motif. Neuromodulatory mutants and optogenetic manipulations that increase roaming have a coupled increase in leaving rates, and similarly acute manipulations that inhibit feeding induce both roaming and leaving. By contrast, inactivating a set of chemosensory neurons that depend on the cGMP-gated transduction channel TAX-4 uncouples roaming and leaving dynamics. In addition, tax-4-expressing sensory neurons promote lawn-leaving behaviors that are elicited by feeding inhibition. Our results indicate that sensory neurons responsive to both internal and external cues play an integrative role in arousal and foraging decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impaired endothelial function in people with coronary heart disease (CHD) is associated with increased mortality. Water immersion can increase peripheral artery shear stress which may provide an additional stimulus to the endothelium during exercise. This study compared the effects of water-based circuit exercise training (WEX) and gym-based circuit exercise training (GEX) on vascular function in people with stable CHD. Participants were randomized to 12 wk of WEX (n = 20), GEX (n = 20), or a control group (usual activities; n = 12). Endothelium-dependent flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and glyceryl trinitrate-mediated dilation (GTN) of the brachial artery were assessed pre- and postintervention. FMD increased following WEX [4.0% (3.0%-5.1%) to 5.3% (4.1%-6.5%); P ¼ 0.016], but was unchanged following GEX [4.9% (3.8%-5.9%) to 5.0% (3.8%-6.1%); P = 0.822]. There were no between-group differences in the change in FMD and no significant changes in GTN-mediated dilation percentage. Triglycerides decreased following GEX [1.2 mmol·L-1 (1.0-1.4 mmol·L-1) to 1.0 mmol·L-1 (0.8-1.3 mmol·L-1); P = 0.022], but there were no further differences in lipid profiles. WEX improved endothelial function of the brachial artery in people with stable CHD, suggesting that WEX is an effective alternative to gym-based exercise in people living with CHD, which may specifically address vascular health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The goal of this study was to determine if patients with mild scoliosis and ageappropriate sagittal alignment have favorable outcomes following surgical correction. Methods: Retrospective review of a prospective, multicenter adult spinal deformity database. Inclusion criteria: operative patients age ≥18 years, and preoperative pelvic tilt, mismatch between pelvic incidence and lumbar lordosis (PI–LL), and C7 sagittal vertical axis all within established age-adjusted thresholds with minimum 2-year follow-up. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) scores: Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), 36-item Short Form health survey (SF-36), Scoliosis Research Society-22R (SRS22R), back/leg pain Numerical Rating Scale and minimum clinically important difference (MCID)/substantial clinical benefit (SCB). Two-year and preoperative HRQoL radiographic data were compared. Patients with mild scoliosis (Mild Scoli, Max coronal Cobb 10°–30°) were compared to those with larger curves (Scoli). Results: One hundred fifty-one patients included from 667 operative patients (82.8% women; average age, 56.4 ± 16.2 years). Forty-two patients (27.8%) included in Mild Scoli group. Mild Scoli group had significantly worse baseline leg pain, ODI, and physical composite scores (p < 0.02). Mean 2-year maximum coronal Cobb angle was significantly improved compared to baseline (p < 0.001). All 2-year HRQoL measures were significantly improved compared to (p < 0.001) except mental composite score, SRS activity and SRS mental for the Mild Scoli group (p > 0.05). From the mild Scoli group, 36%–74% met either MCID or SCB for the HRQoL measures. Sixty-four point three percent had minimum 1 complication, 28.6% had a major complication, 35.7% had reoperation. Conclusion: Mild scoliosis patients with age-appropriate sagittal alignment benefit from surgical correction, decompression, and stabilization at 2 years postoperative despite having a high complication rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In permafrost regions, ground surface deformations induced by freezing and thawing threaten the integrity of the built environment. Mapping the frost susceptibility of the ground at a high spatial resolution is of practical importance for the construction and planning sectors. We processed Sentinel-1 Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) data from thawing seasons 2015 to 2019, acquired over the area of Ilulissat, West Greenland. We used a least-squares inversion scheme to retrieve the average seasonal displacement (S) and long-term deformation rate (R). We secondly investigated two different methods to extrapolate active layer thickness (ALT) measurements, based on their statistical relationship with remotely sensed surface characteristics. A generalized linear model (GLM) was first implemented, but the model was not able to fit the data and represent the ALT spatial variability over the entire study domain. ALT were alternatively averaged per vegetation class, using a land cover map derived by supervised classification of Sentinel-2 images. We finally estimated the active layer ice content and used it as a proxy to map the frost susceptibility of the ground at the community scale. Fine-grained sedimentary basins in Ilulissat were typically frost susceptible and subject to average seasonal downward displacements of 3 to 8 cm. Areas following a subsiding trend of up to 2.6 cm / yr were likely affected by permafrost degradation and melting of ground ice below the permafrost table. Our approach enabled us to identify frost-susceptible areas subject to severe seasonal deformations, to long-term subsidence induced by degrading permafrost, or to both. Used in combination with traditional site investigations, InSAR maps provide valuable information for risk management and community planning in the Arctic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge gaps remain regarding whether syndemic conditions identify treatment-seeking individuals most at risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB). We employed latent class analysis to: (1) model treatment-seeking individuals' syndemic conditions, (2) examine latent classes across nonmedical social determinants, and (3) assess associations between class membership and STB. Participants were 982 individuals presenting at a community mental health clinic between October 2014 and February 2020. The three-step latent class analytic approach was used. Regression analyses were employed to examine nonmedical social determinants and STB outcomes associated with class membership. Participants were aged 18 to >72 (75.8% White; 76.7% heterosexual; 53.7% cisgender woman; 73.8% earned ≥$20,000 annually). Latent class analysis resulted in a three-class solution. Participants in Class 1 were characterized by low probabilities across syndemic conditions. Class 2 was characterized by high probabilities of anxiety and depression. Class 3 was characterized by high probabilities of eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. Participants of color, sexual minority participants, cisgender women, and those experiencing financial distress were more likely to be in classes characterized by syndemic conditions. Classes characterized by syndemic conditions, relative to no syndemic conditions, were associated with greater risk of STB. Findings confirm the concentrated clustering of co-occurring syndemic conditions among marginalized groups and highlight differing risks for those considering suicide or who have attempted suicide vs. those engaging in self-harm. Results underscore the need for resource allocation and multilevel interventions targeting syndemic conditions and suicidality for minority populations and those experiencing financial distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical site infections (SSIs) after craniotomy lead to additional morbidity and mortality for patients, which are related to higher costs for the healthcare system. Furthermore, SSIs are associated with a longer hospital stay for the patient, which is particularly detrimental in glioblastoma patients due to their limited life expectancy. Risk factors for SSIs have already been described for craniotomies in general. However, there is limited data available for glioblastoma patients. As postoperative radiation influences wound healing, very early radiation is suspected to be a risk factor for SSI. Nevertheless, there are no data on the optimal timing of radiotherapy. To define risk factors for these patients, we analyzed our collective. We performed a retrospective analysis of all operations with histological evidence of a glioblastoma between 2012 and 2021. Open biopsy and tumor removal (gross total resection, subtotal resection) were included. Stereotactic biopsies were excluded. Demographic data such as age and gender, as well as duration of surgery, diameter of the trepanation, postoperative radiation with interval, postoperative chemotherapy, highest blood glucose level, previous surgery, ASA score, foreign material introduced, subgaleal suction drainage, ventricle opening and length of hospital stay, were recorded. The need for surgical revision due to infection was registered as an SSI. A total of 177 patients were included, of which 14 patients (7.9%) suffered an SSI. These occurred after a median of 45 days. The group with SSIs tended to include more men (57.1%, p = 0.163) and more pre-operated patients (50%, p = 0.125). In addition, foreign material and subgaleal suction drains had been implanted more frequently and the ventricles had been opened more frequently, without reaching statistical significance. Surprisingly, significantly more patients without SSIs had been irradiated (80.3%, p = 0.03). The results enable a better risk assessment of SSIs in glioblastoma patients. Patients with previous surgery, introduced foreign material, subgaleal suction drain and opening of the ventricle may have a slightly higher for SSIs. However, because none of these factors were significant, we should not call them risk factors. A less radical approach to surgery potentially involving these factors is not justified. The postulated negative role of irradiation was not confirmed, hence a rapid chemoradiation should be induced to achieve the best possible oncologic outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Mammographic screening and management of breast cancer (BC) in elderly women are controversial and continue to be an important health problem. To investigate, through members of the Senologic International Society (SIS), the current global practices in BC in elderly women, highlighting topics of debate and suggesting perspectives. Materials and Methods: The questionnaire was sent to the SIS network and included 55 questions on definitions of an elderly woman, BC epidemiology, screening, clinical and pathological characteristics, therapeutic management in elderly women, onco-geriatric assessment and perspectives. Results: Twenty-eight respondents from 21 countries and six continents, representing a population of 2.86 billion, completed and submitted the survey. Most respondents considered women 70 years and older to be elderly. In most countries, BC was often diagnosed at an advanced stage compared to younger women, and age-related mortality was high. For this reason, participants recommended that personalized screening be continued in elderly women with a long life expectancy. In addition, this survey highlighted that geriatric frailty assessment tools and comprehensive geriatric evaluations needed to be used more and should be developed to avoid undertreatment. Similarly, multidisciplinary meetings dedicated to elderly women with BC should be encouraged to avoid under- and over-treatment and to increase their participation in clinical trials. Conclusion: Due to increased life expectancy, BC in elderly women will become a more important field in public health. Therefore, screening, personalized treatment, and comprehensive geriatric assessment should be the cornerstones of future practice to avoid the current excess of age-related mortality. This survey described, through members of the SIS, a global picture of current international practices in BC in elderly women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conversion to Christianity among Southeast Asian highland minorities has been recurrently interpreted as a way of joining a valorised religion that distinguishes converts from often-Buddhist ruling majorities and sometimes as a means of adopting a 'modern' way of life. Neither of these explanations, however, seems to appropriately describe the situation of Bunong highlanders who turned to Christianity in Cambodia's capital in the early 1970s. Under the pro-American regime of Lon Nol (1970–75), these spirit-practising inhabitants of the margins were brought to Phnom Penh to enrol in the national army. Khmer majority preachers visited them and led them to integrate themselves into the Khmer Evangelical Church. As light is shed on the astonishing trajectories of these Bunong recruits, it becomes possible to reflect upon what 'entering Christianity' meant for them. They were few in number, but the particularities of their experiences highlight the importance of an unprejudiced approach to Southeast Asian highlanders' conversions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intensive longitudinal designs (e.g., experience sampling methods [ESMs]) hold promise for examining the dynamic interplay between daily adversity, coping strategies, and behavioral and mental health issues among marginalized populations. However, few studies have used intensive longitudinal designs with sexual minority women (SMW), an understudied and at-risk population. We assessed feasibility and acceptability of using once-daily, interval-contingent ESM with 161 trauma-exposed SMW (M age = 29.1, SD = 7.57); 20.5% nonbinary; 32.3% queer; 52.2% people of color; 14.3% with annual incomes ≤$9,999; and 30.4% in Southern United States (U.S.). SMW completed one comprehensive online baseline assessment and once-daily brief online assessments for 14 days. Daily surveys assessed past-24-hour stressors, stress responses, and behavioral and mental health symptoms. At the end of the 14-day ESM period, SMW answered three open-ended questions about participating in this study and about research with SMW. Regarding feasibility, 151 participants (94.0%) initiated the post-baseline ESM study portion and 72 (45.0%) completed all 14 daily surveys. An average of 11.70 (median = 13, SD = 3.31) daily surveys (83.5%) were completed by those who initiated the ESM. ESM completion level varied by race/ethnicity and U.S. region. Qualitative acceptability data revealed several themes, namely that SMW (1) enjoyed participating and felt positively about the ESM experience, (2) felt supported to reflect on impacts of early and ongoing stressors, (3) appreciated the chance to self-reflect and challenge existing thought patterns and coping behaviors, (4) recognized their capacity to tolerate trauma-related distress, (5) recommended that researchers focus on SMW's diverse stressors and daily experiences, (6) wanted a rationale for providing sensitive information and more space to narrate their experiences, and (7) recognized the need for affirmative treatment and policies. Findings could inform modifications to ESM protocols to improve their feasibility and acceptability among trauma-exposed SMW and promote ongoing utility of this valuable method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychosocial stressors (e.g., minority stressors, trauma exposure) profoundly impact sexual minority women's (SMW's) risk of alcohol and other drug (AOD) use. However, research has not examined whether there are distinct typologies (i.e., patterns) of psychosocial stressors and whether these vary based on sociodemographic characteristics or are differentially associated with AOD outcomes (e.g., alcohol dependence) among SMW. This study aimed to identify latent classes of SMW reporting distinct typologies of psychosocial stressors and examine predictors and outcomes of latent classes of psychosocial stressors among SMW. Participants included a community sample of 602 SMW (M age = 39.9, SD = 14.0; 74.0% lesbian; 37.4% White, 36.6% Black, 22.3% Latinx; 26.6% annual income ≤$14,999). Latent class analysis was used to identify typologies of psychosocial stressors. Regression analyses were employed to examine sociodemographic predictors and AOD outcomes of class membership. Three classes of psychosocial stressors emerged. Participants in Class 1 were likely to report relatively low adversity. SMW in Class 2, who reported childhood physical abuse (CPA), severe childhood sexual abuse, and adult physical assault, were vulnerable to discrimination and stigma consciousness. A distinct subgroup of SMW (Class 3) was at heightened risk of CPA, adult sexual assault (ASA), and stigma consciousness. Older SMW, Black SMW, and SMW with lower social support were more likely to be in classes characterized by higher adversity. Older SMW were at disproportionate risk of CPA and ASA. Different combinations of psychosocial stressors were uniquely associated with AOD outcomes. Findings underscore the importance of considering within-group heterogeneity in SMW's differential risk of psychosocial stressors and AOD outcomes. Routine screening of psychosocial stressors across several dimensions, brief interventions targeting AOD outcomes, and policies mitigating structural drivers of SMW's increased risk of trauma and minority stressors may be especially important for older SMW, Black SMW, and SMW who lack social support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aims to explore and identify the organizational attributes that contribute to learning and improvement capabilities (L&IC) in healthcare organizations. The authors define learning as a structured update of system properties based on new information, and improvement as a closer correspondence between actual and desired standards. They highlight the importance of learning and improvement capabilities in maintaining high-quality care, and emphasize the need for empirical research on organizational attributes that contribute to these capabilities. The study has implications for healthcare organizations, professionals, and regulators in understanding how to assess and enhance learning and improvement capabilities. Methods: A systematic search of peer-reviewed articles published between January 2010 and April 2020 was carried out in the PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and APA PsycINFO databases. Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts and conducted a full-text review of potentially relevant articles, eventually adding five more studies identified through reference scanning. Finally, a total of 32 articles were included in this review. We extracted the data about organizational attributes that contribute to learning and improvement, categorized them and grouped the findings step-by-step into higher, more general-level categories using an interpretive approach until categories emerged that were sufficiently different from each other while also being internally consistent. This synthesis has been discussed by the authors. Results: We identified five attributes that contribute to the L&IC of healthcare organizations: perceived leadership commitment, open culture, room for team development, initiating and monitoring change, and strategic client focus, each consisting of multiple facilitating aspects. We also found some hindering aspects. Conclusions: We have identified five attributes that contribute to L&IC, mainly related to organizational software elements. Only a few are identified as organizational hardware elements. The use of qualitative methods seems most appropriate to understand or assess these organizational attributes. We feel it is also important for healthcare organisations to look more closely at how clients can be involved in L&IC. Trial registration: Not applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pollen grain cell wall is a highly specialized structure composed of distinct layers formed through complex developmental pathways. The production of the innermost intine layer, composed of cellulose, pectin and other polymers, is particularly poorly understood. Here we demonstrate an important and specific role for the hydroxyproline O-arabinosyltransferase (HPAT) FIN4 in tomato intine development. HPATs are plant-specific enzymes which initiate glycosylation of certain cell wall structural proteins and signaling peptides. FIN4 was expressed throughout pollen development in both the developing pollen and surrounding tapetal cells. A fin4 mutant with a partial deletion of the catalytic domain displayed significantly reduced male fertility in vivo and compromised pollen hydration and germination in vitro. However, fin4 pollen that successfully germinated formed morphologically normal pollen tubes with the same growth rate as the wild-type pollen. When we examined mature fin4 pollen, we found they were cytologically normal, and formed morphologically normal exine, but produced significantly thinner intine. During intine deposition at the late stages of pollen development we found fin4 pollen had altered polymer deposition, including reduced cellulose and increased detection of pectin, specifically homogalacturonan with both low and high degrees of methylesterification. Therefore, FIN4 plays an important role in intine formation and, in turn pollen hydration and germination and the process of intine formation involves dynamic changes in the developing pollen cell wall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research using stress induction protocols such as the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) and the TSST for groups (TSST-G) during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has been challenging. While institutional review boards have provided guidance on returning to face-to-face research using COVID-19 adaptations (e.g., masking, social distancing), whether these adaptations influence the effectiveness of social-evaluative stress induction remains unknown. We conducted a secondary data analysis from a randomized controlled trial to establish whether using COVID-19 adaptations (i.e., masking, social distancing, and using a single large conference room for the duration of the experiment) to the TSST-G protocol was able to reliably induce stress across cardiovascular, self-report, and behavioral indices of stress. Young adults (N = 53) underwent the TSST-G with COVID-19 adaptations. We measured systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), self-reported, and behavioral responses to the TSST-G, and all variables indicated successful stress induction. Increases in SBP (18 mmHg) and DBP (14 mmHg) were similar in magnitude as those in standard in-person TSST protocols. Increases in HR (9 beats per minute) were smaller in magnitude than standard in-person TSST protocols, but slightly larger than increases documented in remote TSST protocols. The cardiovascular, self-report, and behavioral indices of stress reactivity provide confidence in the effectiveness of TSST-G with COVID-19 adaptations to reliably induce stress. In-person TSST protocols with COVID-19 adaptations represent an alternate option to remote TSST protocols for stress induction researchers to use during times when masking or social distancing are necessary. • We examined a COVID-19-adapted Trier Social Stress Test for Groups (TSST-G). • Adaptations included masking, social distancing, and using one room for the study. • The adapted TSST-G induced stress across physiology, self-report, and behavior. • Heart rate increased by 9 beats per minute from baseline to peak stress. • Systolic and diastolic blood pressure increased by 18 mmHg and 14 mmHg, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a decidedly interdisciplinary study on damages to biodiversity in Belgium, in which life (biology in this case) and human sciences (criminology in this case) are allied and confronted. This contribution is mainly epistemological: How do life and social sciences employ casuistic methods to--first individually and later jointly--develop scientific knowledge about the environment and its protection? Highlighting methodological matters: What is a case study in biology and in criminology? How are case studies used to generalize and produce knowledge? How do biology and criminology combine or come into conflict in this process? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Optimization of local therapies in synovial sarcoma (SS) considered unresectable at diagnosis is needed. We evaluated the effects of neoadjuvant versus adjuvant radiation versus surgery only on long-term outcomes. Methods: Patients with macroscopic SS tumors before chemotherapy (IRS-group-III) in the trials CWS-81, CWS-86, CWS-91, CWS-96, CWS-2002-P and SoTiSaR-registry were analyzed. Local therapies were scheduled after 3 neoadjuvant chemotherapy cycles. Results: Median age of 145 patients was 14.5 years. 106 survivors had median follow-up of 7.0 years. Tumor site was 96 extremities, 19 head–neck, 16 shoulder/hip, 14 trunk. Tumors were < 3 cm in 16, 3–5 cm in 28, 5–10 cm in 55, > 10 cm in 34 patients. In a secondary resection during chemotherapy, R0-status was accomplished in 82, R1 in 30, R2 in 21 (12 missing). Radiotherapy was administered to 115 (R0 61, R1 29, R2 20, missing 5), thereof 57 before and 52 after tumor resection. 23 were treated with surgery only. For all patients, 5 year event-free (EFS) and overall survival (OS) was 68.9% ± 7.6 (95%CI) and 79.1% ± 6.9. To establish independent significance, tumor site, size, surgical results and sequencing of local therapies were analyzed in a Cox regression analysis. Variables associated with EFS and OS are site, size and sequencing of local therapies. Variables associated with local recurrence are site, surgical results and sequencing of local therapies. The only variable associated with suffering metastatic recurrence is tumor size. Conclusion: Differences in sequencing of local therapy procedures are independently associated with outcomes. Best local control is achieved when tumors are irradiated pre-operatively and undergo R0 or R1 resection thereafter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual and gender minority adolescents and young adults assigned female at birth (SGM-AFAB) report high rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization. Despite adverse health outcomes of IPV, many survivors, particularly SGM-AFAB, do not seek help. This study (1) examined the proportion of SGM-AFAB who reported severe IPV victimization who sought help; (2) elucidated patterns of help-seeking facilitators and barriers; and (3) identified associations between sociodemographic characteristics, IPV victimization types, and minority stressors and latent classes of help-seeking facilitators and barriers. Participants included 193 SGM-AFAB (Mage = 20.6, SD = 3.4; 65.8% non-monosexual; 73.1% cisgender; 72.5% racial/ethnic minority; 16.6% annual household income $20,000 or less). Most participants who experienced severe IPV did not seek help (62.2%). Having a person or provider who was aware of the participant's abusive relationship was the most common reason for seeking help (50; 68.5%). Minimizing IPV was the most common reason for not seeking help (103; 87.3%). Fewer than 5% of SGM-AFAB who experienced severe IPV and who did not seek help reported SGM-specific help-seeking barriers, including not wanting to contribute to negative perceptions of the LGBTQ community, not disclosing their SGM status, and perceiving a lack of tailored services. Help-seeking facilitators and barriers varied by sociodemographic characteristics. Three classes of help-seeking facilitators and two classes of help-seeking barriers emerged. SGM-AFAB subgroups based on sexual and gender identity, recent coercive control, and identity as IPV victims differed in latent classes. This study's findings confirm SGM-AFAB IPV survivors' low likelihood of seeking help. Our results also underscore the importance of continuing to bolster SGM-AFAB survivors' access to trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and affirming support. Further, multilevel prevention and intervention efforts are needed to reduce minimization of abuse and anticipatory judgment and blame among SGM-AFAB who hold multiple marginalized identities, experience coercive control, and identify as IPV victims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trauma-exposed sexual minority women (SMW) are at elevated risk of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and hazardous drinking compared to trauma-exposed heterosexual women. To understand whether these problems might be exacerbated during times of elevated societal stress, we collected data from a New York-based sample of trauma-exposed SMW between April 2020 and August 2020, a period of notable, compounding societal stressors, including: (a) living in or near one of the first epicenters of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic in the United States and (b) living through multiple high-profile occurrences of racism-related police violence and subsequent racial unrest. SMW (n = 68) completed online self-report questionnaires related to trauma, PTSD symptoms, and alcohol use, and a subset (n = 29) completed semi-structured qualitative interviews. PsycINFO was searched with terms related to SMW, PTSD, and alcohol use to identify studies with samples of SMW from articles published within the last 10 years to which we could compare our sample; this produced nine studies. Welch's t-tests and Chi-square analyses revealed that SMW within our sample reported significantly higher PTSD symptom severity, probable PTSD, and hazardous drinking indicators (i.e., alcohol use disorder and heavy episodic drinking) between April 2020 and August 2020 compared to similar samples (i.e., trauma-exposed SMW and general samples of SMW) assessed previously. Qualitative reports also indicated that the societal stressors of 2020 contributed to mental and behavioral health concerns. These results underscore the need for integrated PTSD and alcohol use prevention and intervention efforts for trauma-exposed SMW during times of heightened societal stress. Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/08964289.2021.2006132. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Roman Catholic Church is often spoken of in the singular. This article argues that this was not applicable for language politics. The many dioceses in late Habsburg Austria approached the organization of language use differently, whether it be the internal language use, the ordinariate language, or the daily language use in the many parishes. The reasons for this varied organization were mixed: so called historical traditions, but most importantly, individuals acting, on top bishops. Beside, many priests actively took part in local (nationalist) language discourse, and bishops judged their activity differently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within educational and social discourses, the term 'inclusion' has various meanings. In both research and practice, there is no official definition of inclusion. Nevertheless, subjective definitions affect pedagogical acts. We developed the Definitions of Inclusion Questionnaire [Fragebogen zur Erfassung subjektiver Definitionen von Inklusion] (FEDI) as an economic instrument that takes subjective definitions of inclusion into account. This paper describes the construction and first psychometric evaluation of the questionnaire instrument that 513 participants with various professional backgrounds completed. We used exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses of two different subsamples to identify the measuring model. We found a three-factor structure with acceptable-to-good fit measures and an acceptable reliability (CR from.81 to.87). Small to medium correlations of the FEDI scales with attitudes towards inclusion and teachers' sense of efficacy suggest that discriminant validity is given. Perspectives for further research and implications for practice are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much has been written about Austria-Hungary under the state of emergency during the First World War. Historians have analysed many aspects of wartime government, among them the political, bureaucratic, and constitutional background since 1867. Emphasis has been placed on the legal regulations that underpinned the state of emergency and their wartime implementation, institutional responsibilities, and the different kinds of hardship emergency decrees imposed on the Habsburg Empire's diverse population, including the targeting of particular nationalities and political ideologies. Much of this scholarly work, however, focuses solely on one or other of the two halves of the monarchy without looking at their differences and similarities. This article therefore analyses: To what extent did one of the main characteristics of Austria-Hungary as a state, namely its dualism, influence planning for and implementation of the wartime state of emergency? While in both halves of the Monarchy parliamentary legislation transferred authority to the government in the event of a state of emergency, in Austria there were fewer safeguards against the military's abuse of power. The more significant limitations on the military's authority in wartime Hungary and the greater powers reserved to its Parliament and judicial system were not sufficient in themselves to reduce the repressive nature of emergency rule or its negative impact on the lives of ordinary citizens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiotherapy (RT) of the brain is a common treatment for patients with high-grade gliomas and brain metastases. It has previously been shown that reactivation of cytomegalovirus (CMV) frequently occurs during RT of the brain. This causes neurological decline, demands antiviral treatment, and is associated with a worse prognosis. CMV-specific T cells are characterized by a differentiated effector memory phenotype and CD45RA+ CCR7- effector memory T (TEMRA) cells were shown to be enriched in CMV seropositive individuals. In this study, we investigated the distribution of TEMRA cells and their subsets in the peripheral blood of healthy donors and, for the first time, prospectively within the scope of the prospective Glio-CMV-01 clinical trial of patients with high-grade glioma and brain metastases during radiation therapy as a potential predictive marker. First, we developed a multicolor flow cytometry-based assay to monitor the frequency and distribution of TEMRA cells in a longitudinal manner. The CMV serostatus and age were considered as influencing factors. We revealed that patients who had a reactivation of CMV have significantly higher amounts of CD8+ TEMRA cells. Further, the distribution of the subsets of TEMRA cells based on the expression of CD27, CD28, and CD57 is highly dependent on the CMV serostatus. We conclude that the percentage of CD8+ TEMRA cells out of all CD8+ T cells has the potential to serve as a biomarker for predicting the risk of CMV reactivation during RT of the brain. Furthermore, this study highlights the importance of taking the CMV serostatus into account when analyzing TEMRA cells and their subsets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conversion to Christianity among Southeast Asian highland minorities has been recurrently interpreted as a way of joining a valorised religion that distinguishes converts from often-Buddhist ruling majorities and sometimes as a means of adopting a 'modern' way of life. Neither of these explanations, however, seems to appropriately describe the situation of Bunong highlanders who turned to Christianity in Cambodia's capital in the early 1970s. Under the pro-American regime of Lon Nol (1970–75), these spirit-practising inhabitants of the margins were brought to Phnom Penh to enrol in the national army. Khmer majority preachers visited them and led them to integrate themselves into the Khmer Evangelical Church. As light is shed on the astonishing trajectories of these Bunong recruits, it becomes possible to reflect upon what 'entering Christianity' meant for them. They were few in number, but the particularities of their experiences highlight the importance of an unprejudiced approach to Southeast Asian highlanders' conversions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the long history of fingerprint biometrics and its use to authenticate individuals, there are still some unsolved challenges with fingerprint acquisition and presentation attack detection (PAD). Currently available commercial fingerprint capture devices struggle with non-ideal skin conditions, including soft skin in infants. They are also susceptible to presentation attacks, which limits their applicability in unsupervised scenarios such as border control. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) could be a promising solution to these problems. In this work, we propose a digital signal processing chain for segmenting two complementary fingerprints from the same OCT fingertip scan: One fingerprint is captured as usual from the epidermis ("outer fingerprint"), whereas the other is taken from inside the skin, at the junction between the epidermis and the underlying dermis ("inner fingerprint"). The resulting 3D fingerprints are then converted to a conventional 2D grayscale representation from which minutiae points can be extracted using existing methods. Our approach is device-independent and has been proven to work with two different time domain OCT scanners. Using efficient GPGPU computing, it took less than a second to process an entire gigabyte of OCT data. To validate the results, we captured OCT fingerprints of 130 individual fingers and compared them with conventional 2D fingerprints of the same fingers. We found that both the outer and inner OCT fingerprints were backward compatible with conventional 2D fingerprints, with the inner fingerprint generally being less damaged and, therefore, more reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]