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Given their increasing number, corporate brand crises are a subject of growing academic interest. Today's managers face a hostile and often uncontrollable external information environment. Maintaining employee trust during turmoil is key to crisis resolution. However, it is during crises that employee trust can be most threatened. Our study draws on social identity theory to understand the conditions under which trust is destroyed and possibly repaired after a corporate brand crisis. The results from two experimental studies suggest that corporate brand crises decrease employee trust due to the threat to their social image. However, appropriate mitigation strategies that restore employees' social status can effectively repair their trust. This decline and repair dynamic is amplified among highly identified employees, suggesting that organisational identification has a bounce-back effect on this mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, dairy cattle farmers are seeking to optimize expenditure and productivity throughout the lives of their animals by focusing on efficiency at all levels. One strategy for bringing forward the start of a dairy cow's profitability phase is to advance the onset of puberty and reduce the animal's age at their first calving. Thus, one objective of this study was to feed two groups of Holstein dairy heifers the same diet but in different quantities, with the aim of generating a growth differential of at least 200 g/day between the two groups. Thirty-eight heifer calves were followed from birth through puberty using body morphometric measurements and quantitative data collected by automatic feeders, which enabled the monitoring of both feed intake and growth for individual heifers. Routine ultrasonography was used to examine changes in the muscle and adipose tissue compartments, and x-ray tomography was used to monitor bone mineralization and rumen development. At 12 weeks of age, heifers in the optimized feeding (OPT) group had greater cortical bone thickness in the tibia compared with the control (CON) group. At 18 weeks of age, OPT heifers also had more trabecular cancellous bone. In contrast, the ruminal volumes of the heifers in the CON group were greater than those of the OPT heifers at 12 weeks. The OPT heifers had greater indices of general, skeletal, and muscular development at 9 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months. Among the circulating plasma indicators measured in this study, non-esterified fatty acids were highest in the CON calves at 6 and 12 months of age and at the onset of puberty, whereas IGF1 was highest in the OPT calves at all ages. The age at puberty of the OPT calves was 8.4 ± 0.6 months compared with 11.2 ± 1.1 months for the CON calves. The OPT heifers had an average daily weight gain of 1018 g/day from birth to the onset of puberty, which enabled them to achieve increased body fattening and to reach puberty 3 months earlier compared with the CON heifers; the average daily weight gain of the CON heifers was 780 g/day over the same period. Taken together, this study defines new reference values for a multitude of morphometric indicators, thereby enabling precise monitoring of the growth of Holstein heifers from birth to puberty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern society is heavily dependent on advancements in polymer science, however, there are increasing environmental concerns about plastics waste that demand sustainable solutions. Ionic Liquids (ILs) have emerged as non-innocent solvents that demonstrate significant potential in polymer chemistry for both synthesis and depolymerization. This review highlights recent advancements in IL-based functional polymers, with particular focus on their applications in separation, energy storage, fire resistance, recycling, and biomedicine. Furthermore, the role of IL-driven polymer media in the research and development of polymer synthesis and degradation technologies is evaluated. Overall, ILs have emerged as key tools in advancing polymer technology, enabling the obtention of new valuable materials and supporting eco-friendly practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1R,2R)-trans-Aminoindanol and (1S,2R)-cis-aminoindanol, denoted as trans-AI and cis-AI, are diastereoisomer aromatic aminoalcohols differing by the presence of a weak intramolecular hydrogen bond in cis-AI, which is absent in trans-AI. They also differ by the number of conformers under supersonic jet conditions, one for trans-AI and two for cis-AI. One-photon and resonance-enhanced two-photon photoelectron circular dichroism (PECD) spectra are obtained for the two molecules. One-photon ionisation above 11 eV results in molecular fragmentation, with very similar fragmentation pathways for trans-AI and cis-AI. Identical PECD spectra for different fragments allow associating them with reactions occurring from the same parent ion within the same electronic state. The shape of the PECD spectra is sensitive to configuration, conformation, and intramolecular hydrogen bonding. Two-photon PECD, being conformer specific, shows that the PECDs of the two ring-puckering conformers of cis-AI have identical signs but different values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myogenic potentials generated by acoustic stimulation of the vestibular system have been reported since 1964. This examination became better known as cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMPs) and gained increasing clinical application since the nineties. Since its discovery, the saccule has been conceived as the most likely vestibular end-organ driving these myogenic potentials of the neck. As findings from both animal and human studies for a long time uniformly provided evidence supporting this theory, cVEMP assessment has become synonymous with evaluation of saccular and inferior vestibular nerve function. This review of the basic evidence supporting this conclusion, questions if cVEMP may be considered as being predominantly or even exclusively driven by the activation of any single vestibular end-organ. We conclude that the results of this review show that contributions from the crista ampullaris of all three ipsilateral semicircular canals, as well as the ipsilateral utricle cannot be ruled out in clinically conducted cVEMP assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although lab-coat genomics scientists are highly skilled and involved in pioneering work, few studies have examined their perceptions on what they do, and how they relate with others in interdisciplinary work. Recognizing that gap, we were curious to talk with scientists about their current work and positionalities related to the use of genomics for bioremediation. Using unstructured open-ended interviews and thematic analysis, we interviewed researchers with diverse genomics-related expertise. Emerging topics were grouped into two broad categories akin to Bronfenbrenner's nested developmental model: microsystem matters, comprising technical advances, barriers, and localized concerns; and macrosystem matters, exploring wider reflections and the philosophies of genomics and society. At the microsystem level, findings revealed differences of opinion about methodological steps, but there was agreement about the incompleteness of databases and the absence of established reference values. These two problems may not only impact a project's progress but also the ability to gauge success, affecting budgeting, human resource needs, and overall stress. At the macrosystem level, scientists voiced concerns about how different social groups perceive and accept genomics applications, as those tend to be viewed by lay persons as genetic interventions. Another focus was on how academic publication slows progress because it is orientated toward positive results while gaps in knowledge could be filled by publishing negative results or methodological barriers. This study underscores scientists' self-awareness within the genomics discipline, acknowledging how their beliefs and biases shape research outcomes. It illuminates critical reflections essential for navigating societal and scientific landscapes in genomics research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen is a source of protein, lipids, vitamins and minerals for bees and other flower-visiting insects. The composition of macro- and micronutrients of pollen vary among different plant species. Honey bees are long-distance foragers, collecting nectar and pollen from plants within several kilometers of their hive. Availability of pollen within the foraging range of honey bees is highly dynamic, changing seasonally, and across different landscapes. In the present study, the aim was to investigate the composition of pollen collected by honey bees in rural-urban landscape mosaics typical of Northern Europe. Samples of corbiculate pollen were collected 3–9 times during the growing season by citizen scientist bee keepers from a total of 25 observation apiaries across Denmark in 2014–2015. Palynological analysis was conducted identifying 500 pollen grains per sample to pollen type (mostly plant genus). Pollen diversity denoted the number of different pollen types in a sample, while relative abundance was calculated as the proportional representation of a pollen type, if found in >1% of the sample. The quantity of pollen types across study years and sites was measured as the occurrence of each pollen type (number of samples with the pollen type present) and abundance (total number of pollen grains). Pollen diversity was highly variable, with effects of season, year, and area of green urban spaces. In terms of quantity, a few key pollen types occurred repeatedly and abundantly in the samples. Only 17 pollen types were present in >15 samples. These pollen types were consistent across study years and different landscapes. Pollen diversity may impact colony health, and hence foraging decisions by honey bees, especially in late summer. However, the bulk of the pollen collected by colonies came from a limited number of pollen sources, regardless of year and landscape context in the rural-urban landscape mosaics of Denmark. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims Whether index testing using coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) improves outcomes in stable chest pain is debated. The risk factor weighted clinical likelihood (RF-CL) model provides likelihood estimation of obstructive coronary artery disease. This study investigated the prognostic effect of coronary CTA vs. usual care by RF-CL estimates. Methods Large-scale studies randomized patients (N = 13 748) with stable chest pain to coronary CTA as part of the initial work-up in addition to or instead of usual care including functional testing. Patients were stratified according to RF-CL estimates [RF-CL: very-low (≤5%), low (>5%–15%), and moderate/high (>15%)]. The primary endpoint was myocardial infarction or death at 3 years. Results The primary endpoint occurred in 313 (2.3%) patients. Event rates were similar in patients allocated to coronary CTA vs. usual care [risk difference (RD) 0.3%, hazard ratio (HR) 0.84 (95% CI 0.67–1.05)]. Overall, 33%, 44%, and 23% patients had very-low, low, and moderate/high RF-CL. Risk was similar in patients with very low and moderate/high RF-CL allocated to coronary CTA vs. usual care [very low: RD 0.3%, HR 1.27 (0.74–2.16); moderate/high: RD 0.5%, HR 0.88 (0.63–1.23)]. Conversely, patients with low RF-CL undergoing coronary CTA had lower event rates [RD 0.7%, HR 0.67 (95% CI 0.47–0.97)]. The number needed to test using coronary CTA to prevent one event within 3 years was 143. Conclusions Despite an overall good prognosis, low RF-CL patients have reduced risk of myocardial infarction or death when allocated to coronary CTA vs. usual care. Risk is similar in patients with very-low and moderate/high likelihood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims The microvascular resistance reserve (MRR) is a novel invasive index of the microcirculation, which is independent of epicardial stenoses, and has both diagnostic and prognostic implications. This study investigates whether MRR is associated with health status outcomes by revascularization in patients with moderate coronary stenoses. Methods Consecutive patients with stable chest pain and moderate (30%–90% diameter) stenoses on invasive coronary angiography (n = 222) underwent invasive physiology assessment. Revascularization was performed according to guideline recommendations. At baseline and follow-up, health status and myocardial perfusion were assessed by the Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ) and positron emission tomography. The primary endpoint was freedom from angina at follow-up with secondary endpoints including changes in health status by SAQ domains and myocardial perfusion by MRR and revascularization status. Low MRR was defined as ≤3.0. Results Freedom from angina occurred in 38/173 patients. In multivariate analyses, MRR was associated with freedom from angina at follow-up (odds ratio 0.860, 95% confidence interval 0.740–0.987). By MRR and revascularization groups, patients with normal MRR who did not undergo revascularization, and patients with abnormal MRR who underwent revascularization, had improved health status of angina frequency [mean difference SAQ angina frequency score 8.5 (3.07–13.11) and 13.5 (2.82–23.16), respectively]. For both groups, health status of physical limitation [mean difference in SAQ physical limitation score 9.7 (4.79–11.93) and 8.7 (0.53–13.88), respectively] and general health status [mean difference in SAQ summary score 9.3 (5.18–12.50) and 10.8 (2.51–17.28), respectively] also improved. Only patients with abnormal MRR who underwent revascularization had improved myocardial perfusion. Conclusions In patients with moderate coronary stenoses, MRR seems to predict the symptomatic and perfusion benefit of revascularization. Clinical trial identifiers NCT03481712 and NCT04707859. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Female infertility, which affects 10–20% of couples worldwide, is a growing health concern in developing countries. It can be caused by multiple factors, including reproductive disorders, hormonal dysfunctions, congenital malformations and infections. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that plant extracts regulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone, kisspeptin, and gonadotropin expression and/or secretion at the hypothalamic–pituitary level and modulate somatic and germ cells, such as steroidogenesis, proliferation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress at the ovarian level. In this review, we report evidence for the role of certain plant extracts or plant bioactive compounds in the regulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary-ovary axis and, consequently, for the treatment of female infertility. We will also summarize their possible involvement in ovarian disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian failure (POF) and ovarian cancers. Plant extracts can be an alternative to treat some female infertility. Female fertility is a complex process regulated by hypothalamic–pituitary-ovarian unit involving both negative and positive feedback mechanisms. Because this hypothalamo–pituitary-ovarian axis is crucial in the regulation of female fertility, this review highlights mechanisms of action of various plant extracts on this axis. Diagram by J. Dupont using BioRender software. This article belongs to the collection: The biology of the ovary – Honouring the contributions of Ken P McNatty and Rex J Scaramuzzi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Pleural infection is associated with significant mortality, and its management is complex. Little attention has been given to care-process metrics such as management delays, pleural drainage practices, and adequacy of intrapleural therapy administration despite their potential impact on outcomes. Audits revealed gaps in those care processes in our institution. Objectives: To assess the impact of quality-improvement initiatives on pleural effusion management in adults. Methods: We performed a retrospective comparison of patients treated with intrapleural therapy for pleural infection at the McGill University Health Center before (April 2013 to April 2016; N = 109) and after interventions (June 2020 to June 2021; N = 44). Interventions included a pleural drainage policy and order set, an intrapleural therapy protocol and preprinted order, implementation of intrapleural therapy administration by nurses, local pleural infection guideline development, and an online learning module for physicians. Major outcomes (length of stay, mortality, surgical treatment) and care-process metrics (management delays, pleural drainage practices, intrapleural therapy administration) were compared between the two periods. Results: After implementation of the interventions, in-hospital mortality and length of stay were unchanged, but the incidence of surgical management went from 14% to 0% (P = 0.01). Delays in drain insertion and intrapleural therapy initiation were not significantly different. Insertion of drains smaller than 12 F decreased from 51% to 7% (P < 0.001). Drain blockage decreased from 20% to 2% (P = 0.004). The incidence of additional drain insertion went from 62% to 48% (P = 0.12). After interventions, 70% of intrapleural therapy doses were given by nurses, the intrapleural therapy protocol was more often adequately followed, fewer doses were missed, and less extended therapy was prescribed. Complications related to drain insertion and intrapleural therapy were similar between the two periods. Conclusions: After the implementation of multifaceted quality improvement interventions for pleural infection including the involvement of nurses in pleural drain flushing and intrapleural therapy, improvements were observed in intrapleural therapy administration, chest drainage practices, and need for surgery. However, length of stay, mortality, and management delays were unchanged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerebellar functional and structural connectivity are likely related to motor function after stroke. Less is known about motor recovery, which is defined as a gain of function between two time points, and about the involvement of the cerebellum. Fifteen patients who were hospitalized between 2018 and 2020 for a first cerebral ischemic event with persistent upper limb deficits were assessed by resting-state functional MRI (rsfMRI) and clinical motor score measurements at 3, 9 and 15 weeks after stroke. Age- and sex-matched healthy subjects (n = 15) were assessed once. The objectives were (1) to study whether the level of connectivity between the contralesional cerebellum (lobules IV-V-VI and lobule VIII) and the ipsilesional motor regions on rsfMRI is predictive of motor recovery and (2) to compare these connectivities with those of healthy subjects. Upper limb motor recovery was positively correlated with functional connectivity between contralesional cerebellar lobule VIII and the ipsilesional supplementary motor area (SMA). The greater the connectivity between these regions, the better the motor recovery. In patients, the corticocerebellar network between lobule IV-V-VI and the ipsilesional M1 and SMA showed weaker synchronization at rest than in healthy subjects. Cortico-cortical connectivity was not associated with recovery. Resting-state functional connectivity, including contralesional cerebellar lobule VIII, could be a tool for studying and predicting recovery in stroke patients. Our study highlights the role of the cerebellum in motor recovery after stroke, enabling us to consider new therapeutic targets in neuromodulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Criticality safety analyses are conducted to show compliance with regulatory standards and to demonstrate safe operational conditions during the storage and transportation of spent nuclear fuel. Given the increased interest in the industry in low-enriched uranium plus (LEU+) and higher-burnup fuel, it is important to study the impact of such fuels' use on criticality safety analyses and the resulting nuclear data–induced uncertainties. In this work, nominal pressurized water reactor assemblies with LEU+ fuel enrichments up to 8 wt% 235U and high burnups up to 80 GWd/tonne U were studied. The assemblies were placed in a generic burnup credit cask GBC-32. As a result of the different covariance libraries, using the ENDF/B-VII.1 nuclear data library consistently resulted in lower nuclear data uncertainties than did the use of the ENDF/B-VIII.0 data library. The highest contribution in the nuclear data–induced uncertainties resulted from the major actinides, and their contribution increased with increasing burnup and enrichment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: Considerable genetic heterogeneity is currently thought to underlie hereditary prostate cancer (HPC). Most families meeting criteria for HPC cannot be attributed to currently known pathogenic variants. METHODS: To discover pathogenic variants predisposing to prostate cancer, we conducted a familial case-control association study using both genome-wide single-allele and identity-by-descent analytic approaches. Sequence of high-risk haplotype carriers was used for variant detection. Candidate pathogenic variants were tested for association with prostate cancer across independent biobanks for replication of observations. RESULTS: Pathogenic variants within WNT9B were associated with familial prostate cancer and observations replicated within four of four independent biobanks. WNT9B E152K carried 2.5-fold risk and reached genome-wide significance under meta-analysis, collectively encompassing a half million patients. WNT9B Q47R was also associated with prostate cancer with genome-wide significance among Finns, for which identity-by-descent analyses confirmed a founder effect. WNT9B shares an unexpected commonality with the previously established prostate cancer risk genes HOXB13 and HNF1B : they are each required for embryonic prostate development. With this recognition, we further evaluated two additional genes known to cause Mendelian genitourinary developmental defects, KMT2D and DHCR7. These too were nominally associated with prostate cancer under meta-analyses. CONCLUSION: WNT9B and additional genes that are required for early genitourinary development are also involved in the later development of prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although chromatin remodelers are among the most important risk genes associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), the roles of these complexes during brain development are in many cases unclear. Here, we focused on the recently discovered ChAHP chromatin remodeling complex. The zinc finger and homeodomain transcription factor ADNP is a core subunit of this complex, and de novo ADNP mutations lead to intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder. However, germline Adnp knockout mice were previously shown to exhibit early embryonic lethality, obscuring subsequent roles for the ChAHP complex in neurogenesis. To circumvent this early developmental arrest, we generated a conditional Adnp mutant allele. Using single-cell transcriptomics, cut&run-seq, and histological approaches, we show that during neocortical development, Adnp orchestrates the production of late-born, upper-layer neurons through a two-step process. First, Adnp is required to sustain progenitor proliferation specifically during the developmental window for upper-layer cortical neurogenesis. Accordingly, we found that Adnp recruits the ChAHP subunit Chd4 to genes associated with progenitor proliferation. Second, in postmitotic differentiated neurons, we define a network of risk genes linked to NDDs that are regulated by Adnp and Chd4. Taken together, these data demonstrate that ChAHP is critical for driving the expansion of upper-layer cortical neurons and for regulating neuronal gene expression programs, suggesting that these processes may potentially contribute to NDD etiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Optimizing CS performance is a global health priority, given the maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality associated with both underuse and overuse. This study aims to (1) determine the facility-based CS rate in Suriname and explore which women are most likely to undergo a CS and (2) classify all CS by the WHO Robson classification and analyze the perinatal outcomes. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study in Suriname, using nationwide birth registry data that included all hospital births in 2020 and 2021 (≥ 27 weeks of gestation). We used multivariate logistic regression analysis to assess maternal and perinatal characteristics associated with CS. We described cesarean births according to the Robson-10 classification and used descriptive statistics to analyze CS frequencies and perinatal outcomes. Results: We analyzed the 18,917 women who gave birth in Surinamese hospitals, with an overall 23.9% CS rate (n = 4522/18,917). The highest CS rates were seen among women with a previous CS (69.3%, aOR 16.2, 95% CI 14.4–18.2), BMI > 40 (47.0%, aOR 5.1, 95% CI 4.0–6.5), newborn with a birthweight from or above 4,000 g (37.3%, 2.2, 95% CI 1.6–3.0) and women giving birth at hospital IV (38.5%, aOR 1.8, 95% CI 1.6–2.0). Hindustani women were more likely to give birth by CS compared to Maroon women (aOR 1.6, 95% CI 1.4–2.0). The largest contribution to the overall CS rate was Robson group 5 (i.e. multiparous women with a previous CS and a singleton term pregnancy in cephalic presentation, 30.5%, n = 1,378). Robson group 2 and 4 (i.e. pre-labor CS, or CS after induction, among term women without previous CS and cephalic presentation) contributed to 21.8% (n = 985) of all CS performed. Robson group 1 and 3 (i.e. during spontaneous labor CS among term women without previous CS and cephalic presentation) accounted for 23.3% (n = 1,052) of all CS cases. Conclusion: The facility-based CS rate in Suriname is 24%, with substantial intra-country and inter-hospital variations. These disparities underscore the need for targeted interventions addressing both overuse and underuse of CS. Preventative measures should prioritize promoting safe VBAC, increasing assisted vaginal birth, preventing first-time CS and ongoing monitoring of trends and regular case audits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Accurate head positioning is essential for diagnostics of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). This study aimed to quantify the head angles and angular velocities during traditional manual BPPV diagnostics in patients with positional vertigo. Methods: A prospective, observational cohort study was conducted at a tertiary university hospital outpatient clinic. One trained examiner performed the Supine Roll Test (SRT) and the Dix–Hallpike test (DHT) on 198 adults with positional vertigo. The primary outcomes included head angle variability and accuracy and angular velocity variability. The secondary outcomes examined the relationship between the head angle accuracy and participant-reported limitations. Results: The absolute variability for all head angles ranged from ±8.7° to ±11.0°. The yaw axis head angles during the DHT, particularly on the left side, had the highest relative variability (left DHT: coefficient of variance 0.29). Systematic errors included the yaw axis head angles undershooting the target (90°) by 19.7–23.8° during the SRT and the pitch axis head angles undershooting the target (120°) by 7.8–8.7° during the DHT. The left-sided yaw axis in the DHT was undershot by 11.8°, while the right-sided DHT angle was slightly overshot (2.5°). Right-sided yaw axis angles in the SRT and DHT were more accurate than the left-sided ones (right SRT: 19.9°; left SRT: 23.9°; p < 0.0001) (right DHT: 7.0°; left DHT: 13.2°; p < 0.0001). The regression analysis found no association between the participant-reported limitations and head angle accuracy. Conclusions: This study highlights the substantial variability and inaccuracies in head positioning during traditional manual BPPV diagnostics, supporting the relevance of a guidance system to improve BPPV diagnostics. Level of evidence: III. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05846711. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Approximately 7.4% of the German population matched the criteria of impeding, chronic non-cancer-related pain in 2014. Guidelines emphasize the importance of a holistic treatment approach. The project RELIEF aims to develop and evaluate a multifaceted case-management intervention to foster the holistic management of chronic pain in general practice. To inform intervention development, this study explored expectations and perceived role models of general practitioners (GP) and patients regarding chronic non-cancer-related pain management in general practice with a focus on patient expectations of GPs and themselves, as well as GP expectations of patients and their anticipation of patient's expectations. Methods: Data were collected via semi-structured guide-based interviews with general practitioners and patients. Pseudonymized verbatim transcripts were analyzed using an inductive–deductive approach with a structuring qualitative content analysis. The Theoretical Domains Framework served as an analytical framework to explore behavioral aspects associated with expectations and role perceptions. Results:n = 25 interviews were analyzed (GP: n = 10, patient: n = 15). Findings indicate that patients considered themselves as the main actor in the therapy process yet expected guidance and care coordination from their GP. The essential role GPs play in pain management was emphasized. Role models indicated by GPs and some patients represent a care ideal, which was also reflected in discussed expectations. GPs anticipated that patients would place high relevance on pharmacological options. Patients highlighted their preference of non-pharmacological and alternative treatment options. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate the importance of holistic, individually tailored chronic pain management in general practice. Systematic, multifaceted case management, as planned in the RELIEF project, may contribute to high-quality primary care for affected individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Faecal sludge (FS) is not extensively evaluated for its potential as a solid fuel mainly due to the general conception of its "highly variable characteristics" in relation to the wide range of on-site sanitation systems. An extensive and systematic FS characterization was therefore conducted on twenty-four samples collected directly from pit latrines, ventilated improved pit latrines (VIPs) and urine-diverting dehydrating toilets (UDDTs) at two depths to understand the impact on properties relevant for combustion. The higher heating value (HHV) for these samples lies between 13 to 22 MJ/kg DM (dry matter). However, such high values should be taken with caution since the measurement guidelines recommended the removal of the large inert pieces found in FS. Besides this potential bias of procedure, differences could be observed between containments, where pit latrines showed the largest variability as compared to VIP and UDDT. These differences are mainly correlated with the ash content, ranging from 15 to 50% DM, while the organic elements concentrations were similar for all samples. Interestingly, the same major inorganic elements could be measured in all samples, namely Si, P, Ca and K followed by Mg and Na. Such similar composition is probably due to similar sanitation practices and staple diet. However, the overall concentration of minor elements was below 1000 ppm DM for most samples. The N concentrations were quite high, between 2.5 to 4.5% DM. Abovementioned results may be problematic for process and environmental aspects if FS is combusted alone. FS can therefore be suitable preferably for co-combustion in blend with lignocellulosic biomass waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To describe the use of life-sustaining therapies and mortality in patients with acute leukemia admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: The PubMed database was searched from January 1st, 2000 to July 1st, 2023. All studies including adult critically ill patients with acute leukemia were included. Two reviewers independently selected the studies, assessed bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for cohort studies, and performed data extraction from full-text reading. We performed a proportional meta-analysis using a random effects model. The primary outcome was all-cause ICU mortality. Secondary outcomes included reasons for ICU admission, use of organ support therapies (mechanical ventilation, vasopressors and renal replacement therapy), hospital, day-90 and one-year mortality rates. Results: Of the 1,331 studies screened, 136 (24,861 patients) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. Acute myeloid leukemia affected 16,269 (66%) patients, acute lymphoblastic leukemia affected 835 (3%) patients, and the type of leukemia was not specified in 7,757 (31%) patients. Acute respiratory failure (70%) and acute circulatory failure (25%) were the main reasons for ICU admission. Invasive mechanical ventilation, vasopressors and renal replacement therapy, were needed in 65%, 53%, and 23% of the patients, respectively. ICU mortality was available in 51 studies (6,668 patients, of whom 2,956 died throughout their ICU stay), resulting in a metanalytical proportion of 52% (95% CI [47%; 57%]; I2 93%). In a meta-regression, variables that influenced ICU mortality included year of publication, and intubation rate. Conclusion: Acute respiratory failure is the main reason for ICU admission in patients with acute leukemia. Mechanical ventilation is the first life-sustaining therapy to be used, and also a strong predictor of mortality. Trial registration: This study's protocol was preregistered on PROSPERO (CRD42023439630). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postnatal establishment of enteric metabolic, host-microbial and immune homeostasis is the result of precisely timed and tightly regulated developmental and adaptive processes. Here, we show that infection with the invasive enteropathogen Salmonella Typhimurium results in accelerated maturation of the neonatal epithelium with premature appearance of antimicrobial, metabolic, developmental, and regenerative features of the adult tissue. Using conditional Myd88-deficient mice, we identify the critical contribution of immune cell-derived mediators. Cytokine stimulation of neonatal intestinal epithelial stem cell organoids suggests a network of synergistic and antagonistic cytokine effects with a significant contribution of IL-22, IL-4/IL-13, TNF, and IL-6 to infection-induced enterocyte reprogramming. Our findings demonstrate that the infection-associated immune cell activation disrupts physiological postnatal tissue maturation and may thereby worsen clinical outcomes and alter the neonatal-adult transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptococcus neoformans/gattii and Histoplasma capsulatum var. capsulatum may present atypical histopathological features inducing diagnostic errors. We aimed to estimate the frequency of these atypical features in formalin-fixed tissue (FT) samples and to assess the relevance of an integrated histomolecular diagnosis using specific H. capsulatum PCR and panfungal PCR followed by Sanger sequencing and/or targeted massive parallel sequencing (MPS). A total of 27 FT from 23 patients with a histopathological diagnosis of cryptococcosis (n  = 16 FT from 13 patients) or histoplasmosis (n  = 11 FT from 10 patients) were retrospectively included. All FT were consultation cases. Mycological identifications on equivalent fresh tissue were available for 11/23 (47.8%) patients. The expert pathologist review modified the diagnosis suggested by the initial pathologist in 7/27 (25.9%) FT. Fungal morphology and tissue inflammation were compared between both mycoses. The most discriminant atypical criterion was the presence of dented-looking yeasts, observed in 68.75% (11/16) of C. neoformans/gattii and none (0/11) of H. capsulatum var. capsulatum (P = .002). For the 12/23 (52.2%) patients without mycological identification on fresh tissue, an integrated histomolecular diagnosis on FT using specific PCR or panfungal PCR followed by Sanger sequencing and/or MPS led to fungal identification in 9/12 (75%) cases; for cryptococcosis, the targeted MPS sensitivity was higher than that of Sanger sequencing (P = .041). Thus, because atypical histopathological features may be tricky, integrated histomolecular diagnosis is essential for optimal patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of water restriction, the adoption of innovative technology and water saving strategies is crucial to sustainable agriculture production. Thus, we sought to emphasize the contribution of precision irrigation based on Internet of Things (IoT) technology and smart sensors for optimizing irrigation water use. The effects of different drip irrigation regimes on total dry matter (TDM), grain yield (GY) and water use efficiency (WUE) of winter wheat grown on clay-loam soil under semi-arid conditions of Tunisia have been assessed for three consecutive growing seasons. The trial included fully irrigated (FI) treatment (100% of crop evapotranspiration (ETc)), two deficit irrigation treatments (DI1, DI2 corresponding to 75 and 60% of ETc, respectively) and rainfed treatment DI3, replicated three each. The results showed that TDM and GY increase with increasing irrigation amount. At harvest, the highest TDM and GY values were recorded under FI and DI1. Reducing irrigation amount by 40% (DI2) resulted in a significant grain yield reduction, quantified as 52.7, 45.7, 30.4%, respectively, for the three cropping seasons. Across all growing seasons and treatments, WUETDM values ranged between 4.11 and 6.32 Kg m−3. The highest values were achieved under rainfed treatment. However, no significant difference was observed between irrigated treatments, in particular, during 2022–2023 and 2023–2024. In terms of WUEGY, no significant difference was observed between the FI and DI1 treatments, while significant reductions were registered under DI2 and DI3. The adoption of deficit irrigation at 75% ETc based on smart tensiometers can be used as an effective strategy to optimize water use in winter wheat without compromising yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of inorganic elements between solid and liquid phases during biomass hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is a poorly investigated topic despite its importance for process optimization. To fill in this gap, the distribution of inorganic elements and their forms were determined for three agro-food waste feedstocks converted at HTC temperatures of 180, 220, and 260 °C in 12 h. Satisfactory balances were achieved, with values between 80 and 92% for C and N, and 80 and 110% for most inorganic elements. At 180 °C, over 90% of P, Mg, Ca, K, Na, and Mn were removed from hydrochars whatever feedstock. At higher temperatures, P, Mg, Ca, and Mn were partly reincorporated into hydrochars (between 7 and 53%), possibly due to the formation of insoluble precipitates, while K and Na remained in the liquid. On the opposite, some minor elements, Cu and Al, remained in the hydrochars, whatever temperature. Si showed different removal behaviors according to feedstock and temperature. These results show the possibility of optimizing the removal of inorganic elements from hydrochars using different temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of shoulder adhesive capsulitis (AC) signs on MR studies of patients with various common shoulder conditions. Methods: MR images of 316 patients were retrospectively evaluated. Patients were divided into three groups: controls (66 patients), clinical AC (63 patients), and study group (187 patients). The final diagnosis of AC was reached clinically. The study group was composed of patients with focal and massive rotator cuff tears, active hydroxyapatite deposition disease, fractures around the shoulder, and post-surgery. The following AC signs were evaluated: inferior glenohumeral ligament (IGHL) thickening; coracohumeral ligament (CHL) thickening; and hyperintensity of the inferior glenohumeral ligament, which was graded in four classes. Results: The IGHL signal intensity was statistically higher in patients with fractures than in controls (P = 0.008). There was no statistically significant difference in IGHL signal between the AC group and patients with massive rotator cuff tears and active hydroxyapatite deposition disease (P > 0.1). IGHL thickness in patients with fractures, massive rotator ruptures, and active hydroxyapatite deposition disease was significantly higher compared to controls (P < 0.02) and significantly lower compared to the AC group (P < 0.0001). Based on these findings, a grading system for fibro-inflammatory capsular changes is proposed. Conclusion: MR AC signs are frequent in patients with shoulder conditions other than AC; however, in these patients, capsular changes are less prominent than in patients with clinical AC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiculturalism (MC) and interculturalism (IC) as approaches to governing ethnic diversity have developed an often antagonistic relationship, borne out through scholarly as well as political debates. Yet, increasingly, scholars have begun to note that while IC-consistent policies have gained some prominence, they have done so alongside MC policies. This suggests the possibility of complementarity between the two, and prominent scholars on both sides have also begun to stress complementarity. What this might look like, however, has not yet been well researched or developed. Focusing on the UK context, an important site in which debates between MC and IC have played out, this article aims to address this point of complementarity. It does so through an analysis of documents and interviews from civil society organisations who work in areas of integration, diversity and anti-discrimination at national and local levels. The article identifies four models of complementarity and shows the divergent and contested ways in which theoretical aspects of competing normative positions are combined empirically. In this way, it develops an argument for the continued centrality of MC for policy in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary human mast cells (MC) obtained through culturing of blood-derived MC progenitors are the preferred model for the ex vivo study of MRGPRX2- vs. IgE-mediated MC activation. In order to assess the impact of culture conditions on functional MRGPRX2 expression, we cultured CD34+-enriched PBMC from peripheral whole blood (PB) and buffy coat (BC) samples in MethoCult medium containing stem cell factor (SCF) and interleukin (IL)-3, modified through variations in seeding density and adding or withholding IL-6, IL-9 and fetal bovine serum (FBS). Functional expression of MRGPRX2 was assessed after 4 weeks via flow cytometry. We found similar proportions of CD34+ MC-committed progenitors in BC and PB. Higher seeding densities (≥ 1x105 cells/mL) and exposure to IL-9 and FBS suppressed functional MRGPRX2 expression at 4 weeks, while leaving MC yield largely unaffected. IL-6 had no impact on MRGPRX2 expression. MRGPRX2-expressing MC upregulated CD63 upon stimulation with polyclonal anti-IgE, substance P and compound 48/80 at 4 weeks. Ketotifen and dasatinib but not cromolyn sodium inhibited both IgE- and MRGPRX2-dependent pathways. Our results confirm the feasibility of functional MC activation studies on PB-derived MC after a short 4-week culture and highlight the impact of culture conditions on functional MRGPRX2 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although lab-coat genomics scientists are highly skilled and involved in pioneering work, few studies have examined their perceptions on what they do, and how they relate with others in interdisciplinary work. Recognizing that gap, we were curious to talk with scientists about their current work and positionalities related to the use of genomics for bioremediation. Using unstructured open-ended interviews and thematic analysis, we interviewed researchers with diverse genomics-related expertise. Emerging topics were grouped into two broad categories akin to Bronfenbrenner's nested developmental model: microsystem matters, comprising technical advances, barriers, and localized concerns; and macrosystem matters, exploring wider reflections and the philosophies of genomics and society. At the microsystem level, findings revealed differences of opinion about methodological steps, but there was agreement about the incompleteness of databases and the absence of established reference values. These two problems may not only impact a project's progress but also the ability to gauge success, affecting budgeting, human resource needs, and overall stress. At the macrosystem level, scientists voiced concerns about how different social groups perceive and accept genomics applications, as those tend to be viewed by lay persons as genetic interventions. Another focus was on how academic publication slows progress because it is orientated toward positive results while gaps in knowledge could be filled by publishing negative results or methodological barriers. This study underscores scientists' self-awareness within the genomics discipline, acknowledging how their beliefs and biases shape research outcomes. It illuminates critical reflections essential for navigating societal and scientific landscapes in genomics research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The objective of this study is to estimate reference values for medial retropharyngeal lymph nodes (MRLNs) measured in high-field (3T) MRI studies of the canine head/brain using transverse T2 spin-echo images and to determine if dogs with structural brain disease exhibit medial retropharyngeal lymph nodes that are larger than expected from estimated reference values. Methods: The study population comprises 142 MRLNs from 71 dogs with no evidence of structural brain disease and normal CSF evaluation and 116 MRLNs from 58 dogs with structural brain disease confirmed by histopathology as of infectious or neoplastic origin, or to represent meningoencephalitis of unknown etiology. Results: Based on this sample, MRLNs are expected to measure 2.9–12.4 mm in maximum short-axis transverse diameter. Interobserver measurement differences are ~1 mm in 95% of the sampled subjects. Lymph node size is correlated with body weight (R = 0.47–0.52) and age (R = −0.39 – −0.47). Discussion: No difference was found between the lymph node size of dogs with structural brain disease of any type, or overall, compared to that of dogs without structural brain disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of vertigo. While various techniques and technologies have improved BPPV diagnostics and treatment, optimizing BPPV healthcare pathways requires a comprehensive understanding of the diagnostic modalities across diverse clinical settings. Objective: To compare traditional manual BPPV diagnostics (MD) with diagnostics done with the aid of a mechanical rotation chair (MRC) when using videonystagmography goggles with both modalities. Methods: This prospective, open-label, randomized diagnostic crossover study involved 215 adults with typical BPPV symptoms at a tertiary University Hospital-based outpatient clinic (Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark). Participants referred by general practitioners or otorhinolaryngologist clinics underwent both traditional manual and MRC diagnostics with the aid of videonystagmography goggles. The order of the diagnostic modalities was randomly assigned, and the two modalities were separated by a minimum of 30 min. The primary outcomes included sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of traditional MD compared to MRC diagnostics. The secondary outcome was the agreement between the two modalities. Results: The MRC demonstrated a significantly higher sensitivity for BPPV detection in general for all participants (p = 0.00). Compared to MRC diagnostics, traditional MD displayed a sensitivity of 69.5% (95% confidence interval (CI): 59.8–78.1), specificity of 90.9% (95% CI: 83.9–95.6), PPV of 88.0% (95% CI: 83.9–95.6), and NPV of 75.8% (95% CI: 67.5–82.8). The overall inter-modality agreement was 80.5% (95% CI: 75.2–85.8, Cohen's kappa 0.61). While both modalities detected unilateral posterior canal BPPV equally good (p = 0.51), traditional MD underperformed for non-posterior BPPV (significantly) and in subgroups referred by ENTs (trend) or with impaired cooperation during traditional MD (significantly). Conclusion: Traditional manual BPPV diagnostics remains a valuable first-line approach for most patients. However, MRC diagnostics offers advantages for complex BPPV cases, patients with impaired cooperation, patients referred from otorhinolaryngologist clinics, and those with negative traditional MD but an evident BPPV history. MRC may be useful as a second opinion diagnostic tool for treatment-resistant BPPV. Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05846711. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The added heat in cities amplifies the health risks of heat waves. At night under calm winds and cloud-free skies, the air in the urban canopy layer can be several degrees warmer than in rural areas. This lower nocturnal cooling in the built-up settings poses severe health risks to the urban inhabitants, as indoor spaces cannot be ventilated effectively. With heat waves becoming more frequent and more intense in future climates, many cities are expanding their green spaces with the aim to introduce cooling through shading, evaporation and lower heat storage capacities. In this study, we assessed how the evening and nighttime cooling effect of urban parks (relative to nearby built-up settings) varies with the park size and the mesoscale atmospheric conditions during warm summer periods. Using a combination of meteorological surface station data and compact radiosondes, the cooling effect is quantified for several urban parks (about 15 ha) and urban woods (about 900 ha). A profiling Doppler wind lidar deployed in the city centre is used to measure turbulent vertical mixing conditions in the urban boundary layer. We find that the maximum nocturnal cooling effects in urban parks range around 1–5 °C during a 1-week heat wave event in mid-July 2022 but also in general during summer 2022 (June–August). Three atmospheric stability and mixing regimes are identified that explain the night-to-night variability in the park cooling effect. We find that very low turbulent vertical mixing in the urban boundary layer (<0.05 m2 s−2) results in the strongest evening cooling in both rural settings and urban parks and the weakest cooling in the built-up environment. This regime specifically occurs during heat waves in connection with large-scale advection of hot air over the region and corresponding subsidence. When nocturnal turbulent vertical mixing above the city is stronger, the evening cooling in urban green spaces is less efficient, so the atmospheric stratification above both urban parks and woods is less stable, and temperature contrasts compared to the built-up environment are less pronounced. These results highlight the fact that urban green spaces have a significant cooling potential during heat waves, with maximum effects at night as advection and mixing transport processes are minimal. This suggests adapting the opening hours of public parks to enable residents to benefit from these cooling islands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anion exchange membrane water electrolysis (AEMWE) for hydrogen production combines the advantages of proton exchange membrane water electrolysis and alkaline water electrolysis. Several strategies have been adopted to improve the performance of AEMWE and to obtain membranes with high hydroxide ion conductivity, low gas permeation, and high durability. In this work AEMs reinforced with poly[2,2'‐(p‐oxydiphenylene)‐5,5'‐benzimidazole] (PBIO) polymer fibres have been developed. A fibre web of PBIO prepared by electrospinning was impregnated into the poly(terphenylene) mTPN ionomer. The membranes are strengthened by the formation of a strong surface interaction between the reinforcement and the ionomer and by the expansion of the reinforcement over the membrane thickness. The hydroxide ion conductivity, thermal stability, dimensional swelling, mechanical properties, and hydrogen crossover of the reinforced membranes were compared with the characteristics of the non‐reinforced counterpart. The incorporation of PBIO nanofibre reinforcement into the membrane reduced hydrogen crossover and improved tensile properties, without affecting hydroxide conductivity. PBIO‐reinforced mTPN membrane was assessed in a PGM‐free 5 cm2 AEMWE single cell using NiFe oxide anode and NiMo cathode catalysts, at a cell temperature of 50 °C and with 1 M KOH fed to the anode. The performance of the cell increased continuously over the 260 hours test period, reaching 2.06 V at 1.0 A cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2023 HOPE conference aimed to understand the interrelationships between the Second World War and economics. Examining this back-and-forth means examining the transformative effect of the war on the content and status of economics but also symmetrically examining the role played by economics and economists in the conduct of the Second World War. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional hydration assessment methods, while accurate, are often invasive and impractical for routine monitoring. In response, innovative non-invasive techniques such as bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), electrodermal activity (EDA), electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring, and urine color charts have emerged, offering greater comfort and accessibility for patients. These methods use various types of sensors to capture a range of bio-signals, followed by machine learning-based classification or regression methods, providing real-time feedback on hydration status, which is crucial for effective management and prevention of urinary stones. This review explores the principles, applications, and efficacy of these non-invasive techniques, highlighting their potential to transform hydration monitoring in clinical and everyday settings. By facilitating improved patient compliance and enabling proactive hydration management, these approaches align with contemporary trends in personalized healthcare. This article presents a literature review on non-invasive approaches to hydration assessment, focusing on their significance in preventing kidney stone disease and enhancing kidney health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) procedures from single photon emission computed tomography and positron emission tomography imaging have been registered in the Western Denmark Heart Registry (WDHR) since 2017 as a sub-registry (WDHR-MPI). The aim was to review the content, quality, and research potential of the WDHR-MPI and assess the completeness and validity of its key variables. Patients and Methods: Using the Danish National Patient Registry (DNPR) as a reference, we calculated the completeness of procedure registration as the proportion of procedures registered in the WDHR-MPI from 2017 to 2021. We defined completeness of variable registration as the proportion of non-missing values for a given variable and examined it for 38 key variables. We assessed validity by estimating the positive predictive values (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for 26 selected key variables using corresponding extracted information from 300 randomly selected patient records. Results: We identified 19,084 procedures in 17,871 patients from all seven cardiac centers performing nuclear cardiology procedures in the WDHR uptake area. The registry accumulated 4000– 6000 procedures each year from 2019 to 2021. The overall completeness of procedure registration was 72% (95% CI 72– 73), increasing from 14% (95% CI 13– 15) in 2017 to 98% (95% CI 98– 98) in 2021. The mean completeness of variable registration was 89%. The validity of entered data was high, with an overall PPV for the selected key variables of 95% (95% CI 94– 95) and NPV of 94% (95% CI 93– 96). Conclusion: The WDHR-MPI is one of the largest systematic MPI cohorts. The overall high completeness and validity of the data support its potential for cardio-epidemiological research. Plain Language Summary: If you have ischemic heart disease, you may experience symptoms such as chest tightness and shortness of breath due to decreased blood supply to the heart muscle. To help identify decreased blood supply to the heart muscle, doctors can use a specialized scan which involves the injection of low doses of radioactive tracers into the bloodstream. Since 2017, doctors in Denmark have been recording these scans in the Western Denmark Myocardial Perfusion Imaging Registry (WDHR-MPI). This study found a high completeness and validity of the registry. With 19,084 scans recorded from 2017 to 2021, this registry provides a high-quality resource that could improve diagnosis and treatment for people with heart disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protists, known as microeukaryotes, are a significant portion of soil microbial communities. They are crucial predators of bacteria and depend on bacterial community dynamics for the growth and evolution of protistan communities. In parallel, increased levels of atmospheric CO2 significantly impact bacterial metabolic activity in rhizosphere soils. In this study, we investigated the effect of elevated atmospheric CO2 levels on the metabolically active protist community composition and function and their co-occurrences with bacteria from bulk and rhizosphere soils from the Giessen Free-Air CO2 enrichment grassland experiment. Metabarcoding sequencing data analyses of partial 18S rRNA from total soil RNA showed that elevated CO2 concentrations stimulated only a few ASVs of phagotrophic predators of bacteria and other microeukaryotes, affecting protist community composition (P = 0.006, PERMANOVA). In parallel, phagotrophic and parasitic lineages appeared slightly favoured under ambient CO2 conditions, results that were corroborated by microbial signature analyses. Cross-comparisons of protist-bacteria co-occurrences showed mostly negative relations between prokaryotes and microeukaryotes, indicating that the ongoing increase in atmospheric CO2 will lead to changes in microbial soil communities and their interactions, potentially cascading to higher trophic levels in soil systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as developmental coordination disorder (DCD), exhibit gross to fine sensorimotor impairments, reduced physical activity and interactions with the environment and people. This disorder co‐exists with cognitive deficits, executive dysfunctions and learning impairments. Previously, we demonstrated in rats that limited amounts and atypical patterns of movements and somatosensory feedback during early movement restriction manifested in adulthood as degraded postural and locomotor abilities, and musculoskeletal histopathology, including muscle atrophy, hyperexcitability within sensorimotor circuitry and maladaptive cortical plasticity, leading to functional disorganization of the primary somatosensory and motor cortices in the absence of cortical histopathology. In this study, we asked how this developmental sensorimotor restriction (SMR) started to impact the integration of multisensory information and the emergence of sensorimotor reflexes in rats. We also questioned the enduring impact of SMR on motor activities, pain and memory. SMR led to deficits in the emergence of swimming and sensorimotor reflexes, the development of pain and altered locomotor patterns and posture with toe‐walking, adult motor performance and night spontaneous activity. In addition, SMR induced exploratory hyperactivity, short‐term impairments in object‐recognition tasks and long‐term deficits in object‐location tasks. SMR rats displayed minor alterations in histological features of the hippocampus, entorhinal, perirhinal and postrhinal cortices yet no obvious changes in the prefrontal cortex. Taken all together, these results show similarities with the symptoms observed in children with DCD, although further exploration seems required to postulate whether developmental SMR corresponds to a rat model of DCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biallelic WARS2 pathogenic variants responsible for partial defect in aminoacylation, have recently been reported in subjects presenting with late-onset phenotypes combining dopa-responsive early-onset dystonia parkinsonism with altered DaTSCAN and progressive myoclonus ataxia. Here, we present the case of a 39-year-old male with childhood-onset progressive dopa-responsive dystonia parkinsonism, prominent psychiatric features and ataxia whose genome sequencing identified a p.(Arg36Ter) nonsense variant and a hypomorphic p.(Trp13Gly) missense variant, allowing the diagnosis of WARS2-related disease. The p.(Trp13Gly) missense variant has previously been reported in individuals with less severe phenotypes than those carrying biallelic WARS2 loss-of-function variants. Among these individuals, two subjects had similar genetic backgrounds and almost identical clinical history to our patient. Our report brings additional proof that the p.(Trp13Gly) variant acts as a hypomorphic allele, offering insight on a genotype-phenotype correlation in WARS2-related disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehending communication is dependent on analyzing the different modalities of conversation, including audio, visual, and others. This is a natural process for humans, but in digital libraries, where preservation and dissemination of digital information are crucial, it is a complex task. A rich conversational model, encompassing all modalities and their co-occurrences, is required to effectively analyze and interact with digital information. Currently, the analysis of co-speech gestures in videos is done through manual annotation by linguistic experts based on textual searches. However, this approach is limited and does not fully utilize the visual modality of gestures. This paper proposes a visual gesture retrieval method using a deep learning architecture to extend current research in this area. The method is based on body keypoints and uses an attention mechanism to focus on specific groups. Experiments were conducted on a subset of the NewsScape dataset, which presents challenges such as multiple people, camera perspective changes, and occlusions. A user study was conducted to assess the usability of the results, establishing a baseline for future gesture retrieval methods in real-world video collections. The results of the experiment demonstrate the high potential of the proposed method in multimodal communication research and highlight the significance of visual gesture retrieval in enhancing interaction with video content. The integration of visual similarity search for gestures in the open-source multimedia retrieval stack, vitrivr, can greatly contribute to the field of computational linguistics. This research advances the understanding of the role of the visual modality in co-speech gestures and highlights the need for further development in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modeling the impact of police crackdowns on criminal networks is a complex problem. A single strategy can indeed have very different results depending on the setting, and the targeted criminal networks. When evaluating police crackdowns that seek to disrupt the cohesion of criminal networks, and in turn their level of activity, some research has found evidence that deterrence of some actors led to a lower cohesion in the network, and lower criminal activities. Alternatively, there is also evidence that police crackdowns could increase the cohesion of criminal networks by stimulating the sense of belonging and loyalty of network actors to the group and reinforce the opposition to the police. These opposing conclusions form the cohesion/identity continuum that explains the impact of law enforcement operations on the cohesion, and level of activities of criminal networks. The aim of this research is to understand how the characteristics of online criminal networks may impact the cohension/identity, and the police strategies used to disrupt criminal activities. Our results show that, while market activity appears to decrease after police interventions, their impact on market cohesion is small. Our results raise questions about the existence of online communities and of online criminal social identity in the context of darknet drug dealing. It is indeed possible that the anonymity, uncertainty and low levels of generalized trust associated with the darknet hinder its capacity to foster high cohesion and social identification between users in ways similar to physical drug networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]