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The EAO Junior Committee Summer Camp 2023 was held in Lisbon, Portugal, with the goal of promoting communication, leadership, and connections among young clinicians and researchers under 40 years old. The camp featured workshops, group projects, and social activities to empower participants and enhance their public speaking abilities. Attendees from 18 different countries were chosen to participate in the camp, which prioritized creating a safe and respectful environment for networking and establishing connections. The camp also emphasized the value of friendship and encouraged participants to make new friends for future scientific exchanges. The document includes three appendix figures showcasing participants, a group photo before a surf lesson, and a view of Dragão Vermelho beach in Lisbon, Portugal. The document is copyrighted by Quintessence Publishing Co, Inc., and printing is limited to personal use only, with no reproduction or transmission allowed without written permission from the publisher. [Extracted from the article]

Glucosinolates are chemically stable compounds that exhibit biological activity in the body following hydrolysis catalyzed by the enzyme myrosinase. While existing in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that the hydrolysis products of glucosinolates predominantly exert beneficial effects in both human and animal organisms, some studies have found that the excessive consumption of glucosinolates may lead to toxic and anti-nutritional effects. Given that glucosinolates are primarily ingested in the human diet through dietary supplements and commercially available cruciferous vegetables, we investigated the in vivo effects of the glucosinolate sinigrin on molecular markers in the myocardia of healthy Swiss mice. This study aims to elucidate whether sinigrin induces positive or negative physiological effects in mammals following consumption. The alterations in myocardial parameters were assessed by measuring metabolic, inflammatory, structural, and antioxidant markers. Our findings revealed that subchronic exposure to sinigrin in the myocardia of female mice resulted in a significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) in the levels of the myokine irisin, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-9), catalase (CAT), and total glutathione (tGSH), alongside a marked decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in the levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), compared to the control group consisting of both female and male mice. These results suggest that the hydrolysis products of sinigrin may exert a potentially toxic effect on the myocardial tissue of female mice and possess the capability to modulate transcription factors in vivo in a sex-dependent manner. This observation calls for further investigation into the mechanisms regulating the actions of glucosinolate hydrolysis products, their interactions with sex hormones, and the determination of permissible intake levels associated with both beneficial and adverse outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Observational studies suggest sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor kidney outcome trials are not representative of the broader population of people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, there are limited data on the generalizability to those without co-existing type 2 diabetes (T2D), and the representativeness of the Study of Heart and Kidney Protection with Empagliflozin (EMPA-KIDNEY) trial has not been adequately explored. We hypothesized that SGLT2 inhibitor kidney outcome trials are more representative of people with co-existing T2D than those without, and that EMPA-KIDNEY is more representative than previous trials. Methods A cross-sectional analysis of adults with CKD in English primary care was conducted using the Oxford-Royal College of General Practitioners Clinical Informatics Digital Hub. The proportions that met the eligibility criteria of SGLT2 inhibitor kidney outcome trials were determined, and their characteristics described. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with trial eligibility. Results Of 6 670 829 adults, 516 491 (7.7%) with CKD were identified. In the real-world CKD population, 0.9%, 2.2% and 8.0% met the Canagliflozin and Renal Events in Diabetes with Established Nephropathy Clinical Evaluation (CREDENCE), Dapagliflozin and Renal Outcomes and Cardiovascular Mortality in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (DAPA-CKD) and EMPA-KIDNEY eligibility criteria, respectively. All trials were more representative of people with co-existing T2D than those without T2D. Trial participants were 9–14 years younger than the real-world CKD population, and had more advanced CKD, including higher levels of albuminuria. A higher proportion of the CREDENCE (100%), DAPA-CKD (67.6%) and EMPA-KIDNEY (44.5%) trial participants had T2D compared with the real-world CKD population (32.8%). Renin–angiotensin system inhibitors were prescribed in almost all trial participants, compared with less than half of the real-world CKD population. Females were under-represented and less likely to be eligible for the trials. Conclusion SGLT2 inhibitor kidney outcome trials represent a subgroup of people with CKD at high risk of adverse kidney events. Our study highlights the importance of complementing trials with real-world studies, exploring the effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors in the broader population of people with CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astrocytes are specialized glial cell types of the central nervous system (CNS) with remarkably high abundance, morphological and functional diversity. Astrocytes maintain neural metabolic support, synapse regulation, blood-brain barrier integrity and immunological homeostasis through intricate interactions with other cells, including neurons, microglia, pericytes and lymphocytes. Due to their extensive intercellular crosstalks, astrocytes are also implicated in the pathogenesis of CNS disorders, such as ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Despite the critical importance of astrocytes in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation are recognized, the lack of suitable in vitro systems limits their availability for modeling human brain pathologies. Here, we report the time-efficient, reproducible generation of astrocytes from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). Our hiPSC-derived astrocytes expressed characteristic astrocyte markers, such as GFAP, S100b, ALDH1L1 and AQP4. Furthermore, hiPSC-derived astrocytes displayed spontaneous calcium transients and responded to inflammatory stimuli by the secretion of type A1 and type A2 astrocyte-related cytokines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is an urgent need to better understand the diverse presentations, risk factors, and outcomes of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-associated cardiovascular toxicity. There remains a lack of consensus surrounding cardiovascular screening, risk stratification, and clinical decision-making in patients receiving ICIs. Methods: We conducted a single center retrospective cohort study including 2165 cancer patients treated with ICIs between 2013 and 2020. The primary outcome was adverse cardiovascular events (ACE): a composite of myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease, stroke, peripheral vascular disease, arrhythmias, heart failure, valvular disease, pericardial disease, and myocarditis. Secondary outcomes included all-cause mortality and the individual components of ACE. We additionally conducted an imaging substudy examining imaging characteristics from echocardiography (echo) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. Results: In our cohort, 44% (n = 962/2165) of patients experienced ACE. In a multivariable analysis, dual ICI therapy (hazard ratio [HR] 1.23, confidence interval [CI] 1.04–1.45), age (HR 1.01, CI 1.00–1.01), male sex (HR 1.18, CI 1.02–1.36), prior arrhythmia (HR 1.22, CI 1.03–1.43), lung cancer (HR 1.17, CI 1.01–1.37), and central nervous system (CNS) malignancy (HR 1.23, CI 1.02–1.47), were independently associated with increased ACE. ACE was independently associated with a 2.7-fold increased risk of mortality (P<0.001). Dual ICI therapy was also associated with a 2.0-fold increased risk of myo/pericarditis (P = 0.045), with myo/pericarditis being associated with a 2.9-fold increased risk of mortality (P<0.001). However, the cardiovascular risks of dual ICI therapy were offset by its mortality benefit, with dual ICI therapy being associated with a ~25% or 1.3-fold decrease in mortality. Of those with echo prior to ICI initiation, 26% (n = 115/442) had abnormal left ventricular ejection fraction or global longitudinal strain, and of those with echo after ICI initiation, 28% (n = 207/740) had abnormalities. Of those who had CMR imaging prior to ICI initiation, 43% (n = 9/21) already had left ventricular dysfunction, 50% (n = 10/20) had right ventricular dysfunction, 32% (n = 6/19) had left ventricular late gadolinium enhancement, and 9% (n = 1/11) had abnormal T2 imaging. Conclusion: Dual ICI therapy, prior arrhythmia, older age, lung and CNS malignancies were independently associated with an increased risk of ACE, and dual ICI therapy was also independently associated with an increased risk of myo/pericarditis, highlighting the utmost importance of cardiovascular risk factor optimization in this particularly high-risk population. Fortunately, the occurrence of myo/pericarditis was relatively uncommon, and the overall cardiovascular risks of dual ICI therapy appeared to be offset by a significant mortality benefit. The use of multimodal cardiac imaging can be helpful in stratifying risk and guiding preventative cardiovascular management in patients receiving ICIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ex vivo perfusion of transplant‐declined human organs has emerged as a promising platform to study the response of an organ to novel therapeutic strategies. However, to fully realize the capability of this platform for performing translational research in human organ pathophysiology, there is a need for robust assays to assess organ function and disease. State‐of‐the‐art research methods rely on analyses of biopsies taken during perfusion, which both damages the organ and only provides localized information. Developing non‐invasive, whole organ methods of assessment is critical to the further development of this research platform. Methods: We use ex vivo cold infusion scanning (EXCIS) with contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) to quantify perfusion in kidneys preserved ex vivo. EXCIS‐CT computes three complementary metrics for whole organ assessment: a dynamic assessment of contrast filling, a measure of vascular network anatomical structure, and a static assessment of perfusion heterogeneity. Results: These metrics were applied to a series of six transplant‐declined human kidneys, which demonstrated a range of anatomies and perfusion. Lastly, two transplant‐declined human kidneys were imaged before and after a 1‐h period of ex vivo normothermic perfusion (NMP). We found variable responses to NMP, with one kidney maintaining the vascular network and hemodynamics and the other showing significant changes in vessel size and spatial perfusion profile. Conclusions: EXCIS‐CT provides metrics that can be used to characterize whole organ perfusion and vascular function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study explores the future of AI-driven media and info-communication as envisioned by experts from all world regions, defining relevant terminology and expectations for 2050. Participants engaged in a 4-week series of surveys, questioning their definitions and projections about AI for the field of media and communication. Their expectations predict universal access to democratically available, automated, personalized and unbiased information determined by trusted narratives, recolonization of information technology and the demystification of the media process. These experts, as technology ambassadors, advocate AI-to-AI solutions to mitigate technology-driven misuse and misinformation. The optimistic scenarios shift responsibility to future generations, relying on AI-driven solutions and finding inspiration in nature. Their present-based forecasts could be construed as being indicative of professional near-sightedness and cognitive dissonance. Visualizing our findings into a Glasses Model of AI Trust, the study contributes to key debates regarding AI policy, developmental trajectories, and academic research in media and info-communication fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal wetlands adapt to rising seas via feedbacks that build soil elevation, which lead to wetland stability. However, accelerated rates of sea-level rise can exceed soil elevation gain, leading to wetland instability and loss. Thus, there is a pressing need to better understand regional and landscape variability in rates of wetland soil elevation change. Here, we conducted a regional synthesis of surface elevation change data from mangrove forests and coastal marshes in the iconic Greater Everglades region of south Florida (USA). We integrated data from 51 sites in which a total of 122 surface elevation table-marker horizon (SET-MH) stations were installed. Several of these sites have been periodically monitored since the 1990s and are among the oldest SET-MH datasets in the world. Rates of surface elevation change ranged from −9.8 to 15.2 mm year−1, indicating some wetlands are keeping pace with sea-level rise while others are at risk of submergence and conversion to open water. Vertical accretion rates ranged from 0.6 to 12.9 mm year−1, and subsurface change rates ranged from −13.5 to 8.6 mm year−1. Rates of surface elevation change were positively related to subsurface change but not vertical accretion. There were no significant relationships between rates of surface elevation change and elevation (NAVD 88) or rates of sea-level rise. Site-specific examples indicate that hurricanes, plant productivity, hydrologic exchange, and proximity to sediment and nutrient inputs are critical but confounding drivers of surface elevation change dynamics in the Greater Everglades region. Collectively, our results reinforce the value of long-term SET-MH data that incorporate spatial variability for advancing understanding of surface elevation change dynamics in coastal wetlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the face of accelerating climate change and rising sea levels, quantifying surface elevation change dynamics in coastal wetlands can help to develop a more complete understanding of the implications of sea-level rise on coastal wetland stability. The surface elevation table-marker horizon (SET-MH) approach has been widely used to quantify and characterize surface elevation change dynamics in coastal marshes and mangrove forests. Whereas past studies that utilized the SET-MH approach have most often quantified rates of surface elevation change using simple linear regression analyses, several recent studies have shown that elevation patterns can include a diverse combination of linear and non-linear patterns. Generalized additive models (GAMs) are an extension of generalized linear models (GLMs) that have previously been used to analyze a variety of complex ecological processes such as cyclical changes in water quality, species distributions, long-term patterns in wetland area change, and palaeoecological time series. Here, we use long-term SET data to demonstrate the value of generalized additive models for analyzing non-linear patterns of surface elevation change in coastal wetlands. Additionally, we illustrate how the GAM approach can be used to effectively quantify rates of elevation change at both landscape- and local site-level scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The climate change‐induced transition from grass‐dominated marshes to woody‐plant‐dominated mangrove forests has the potential to impact the ecosystem goods and services provided by coastal wetlands. To better anticipate and prepare for these impacts, there is a need to advance understanding of future changes in mangrove distribution and coastal wetland vegetation structural properties due to warming winters. Location: Southeastern United States. Time Period: Recent (1981–2010) and future (2071–2100). Major Taxa Studied: Coastal wetland vegetation. Methods: We estimated changes in mangrove distribution and coastal wetland vegetation structure using known climate‐ecological relationships, recent climate data for the period 1981–2010, and future projected climate data for the period 2071–2100. We quantified potential changes in mangrove presence, mangrove relative abundance, coastal wetland vegetation height, and coastal wetland vegetation aboveground biomass under two Shared Socio‐Economic Pathway scenarios (SSPs; SSP2‐4.5 and SSP5‐8.5), which correspond to intermediate and high greenhouse gas emissions scenarios, respectively. Results: Our analyses indicate that mangrove presence and relative abundance will dramatically increase in the northern Gulf of Mexico and the southeast Atlantic coast of the United States, particularly under the high emissions scenario. Because of the higher stature of mangroves relative to salt marsh vegetation, this expansion will cause a transformative change in coastal wetland vegetation height and aboveground biomass in many areas. However, along the arid southern Texas coast, low precipitation and high salinities are expected to constrain mangrove expansion and growth. Main Conclusions: Our results show where and to what extent climate change, in the form of winter temperature warming, is projected to enable the transition from shorter, grass‐dominated salt marshes to taller, woody plant‐dominated mangrove forests in the southeastern United States, with consequent impacts on ecosystem goods and services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burnout is an increasingly prevalent phenomenon, which can be associated with a wide range of mental and physical illnesses. There is also a possible connection between burnout and neuropathic low back pain, but the association is poorly studied. Methods: The aim of our cross-sectional study was to analyze the prevalence and risk factors of chronic neuropathic low back pain taking many co-variates into account, such as burnout and its main determinants among postal workers. Demographic data, risk factors and concomitant diseases were recorded. Burnout was measured with the Mini Oldenburg Questionnaire (MOLBI), neuropathic low back pain was assessed by the painDETECT questionnaire, insomnia was detected by the Athen's Insomnia Scale and depression was measured by the Beck Depression Inventory. Results: Three hundred sixty-eight males (35.6%) and six hundred sixty-six females (64.4%) participated in our study. Low back pain occured in 182 workers (17.6%), among them 36 workers (19.4%) had neuropathic low back pain, 56 (30.9%) had mixed pain and 90 (49.7%) workers had nociceptive low back pain. In a hierarchical regression analysis strong predictors of neuropathic low back pain included having secondary employment, depression, sleep disturbance and emotional exhaustion (main component of burnout). Conclusion: This is among the first studies showing a possible association between burnout and neuropathic low back pain, highlighting the importance of adequate burnout screening and the implementation of interventions to avoid significant disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the rising interest in AI-generated and synthetic media, the goal is to synthesise trending topics on how AI technology and media operation converge. A review of 2727 records from 13 international academic/non-academic databases is analysed through topic modelling and data scanning for exploratory analysis. The interpretation of the results allows a proposal of the "AI media" concept framing social-news-artificial-fake-service media phenomena leading to an extended or AI mediatisation. This study identifies fundamental challenges including trust and ethics, privacy safeguards, and the sustainability of AI ecosystems. The proposed conceptual model, definitions, and research agenda contribute to a comprehensive understanding of this emerging field. The study supports academic inquiry and policymaking with precise terminology and a forward-looking view that also considers the hype around generative AI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of medium fluences (from 1019 е/cm2 to 1020 е/cm2) of fast electron irradiation or the change in the praseodymium concentration in the range 0.0 ≤ z ≤ 0.5 on the excess conductivity of optimally oxygen-doped YBa2Cu3O7–δ single crystals has been investigated. Irradiation leads to the appearance of a significant number of defects that cause a decrease in anisotropy, an appreciable increase in phonon scattering, reduction of Tc, and broadening of the superconducting transition. Under the conditions specified, the temperature dependence of electrical resistivity is approximated with high accuracy by the charge carriers' scattering on defects and phonons, and fluctuating conductivity in the Lawrence–Doniach model. It was determined that at fluences 0 ≤ Ф ≤ 6.5⋅1019 е/cm2, the value of the transverse coherence length ξс(0) increases with an increase of Ф by about three times or more than four times as the content of praseodymium in the sample increases to z ≈ 0.42. In both cases, the 2D–3D crossover point shifts upward in temperature. In contrast to the case of irradiation with low fluences (Ф ≤ 1019 е/cm2) or doping with praseodymium up to concentrations z ≤ 0.39, irradiation with medium fluences and doping with praseodymium at higher concentrations leads to a nonmonotonic dependence of the transverse coherence length ξс(0) on the irradiation fluence, with characteristic maxima at Ф ∼ (7–8)⋅1019 е/cm2 or z ≈ 0.42, which may be due to the general suppression of the superconducting characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurenteric cysts (NECs) are rare congenital, benign lesions of the central nervous system (CNS), predominantly located within the spinal cord. However, they may also occur less frequently within the brainstem, fourth ventricle, or cerebellopontine angle (CPA). Originating from anomalous interactions between embryonic layers, NECs are recognized for their potential to compress adjacent structures. We report a unique case of disseminated NECs exhibiting few to absent symptoms, which represents an unusual presentation of this disease, with only six similar reports in the literature. A 22‐year‐old female presented to our institute with chronic headaches resistant to nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Initially treated for intracranial hypertension (ICH) secondary to a cyst in the quadrigeminal cistern at the age of 17 via neuroendoscopic surgery and subsequent ventriculoperitoneal shunting, she experienced transient relief. However, follow‐up at 22 years of age revealed multiple cysts in the basal and spinal cisterns, with MRI findings suggestive of neurocysticercosis. Despite treatment with albendazole and corticosteroids, subsequent MRIs showed no change in the size or number of the cysts. Six years later, symptoms had worsened, previously identified cysts had grown, and the detection of new cysts prompted surgical intervention. Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of NECs. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges posed by NECs, especially in regions endemic for neurocysticercosis, where clinical and radiological findings may initially suggest this condition. It underscores the importance of considering NECs in the differential diagnosis of cystic lesions in the CNS, even in the absence of typical symptoms of spinal cord compression. The recurrence and spread of NECs post‐treatment demand a comprehensive management approach, encompassing surgical intervention and close monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to trace the origin of eggs from backyard-raised hens is important due to their higher market value compared to barn-raised eggs. This study aimed to differentiate eggs from these two rearing systems using isotopic, elemental, and fatty acid profiles of egg yolks. A total of 90 egg yolk samples were analyzed, analytical results being followed by statistical tests (Student's t-test) showing significant differences in δ18O, several elements (Mg, K, Sc, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Ba, Pb), and fatty acids compositions (C23:0, C17:0, C18:0, C16:1n7, C18:1n9, C18:2n6, C20:1n7, C20:4n6, C20:5n3, C22:6n3), as well as in the ratios of SFA, PUFA, and UFA. The results indicated a nutritional advantage in backyard eggs due to their lower n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid content and a more favorable n-6 to n-3 ratio, linked to differences in the hens' diet and rearing systems. To classify the production system (backyard vs. barn), three pattern recognition methods were applied: linear discriminant analysis (LDA), k–nearest neighbor (k–NN), and multilayer perceptron artificial neural networks (MLP–ANN). LDA provided perfect initial separation, achieving 98.9% accuracy in cross-validation. k-NN yielded classification rates of 98.4% for the training set and 85.7% for the test set, while MLP–ANN achieved 100% accuracy in training and 92.3% in testing, with minor misclassification. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of fusion among isotopic, elemental, and fatty acid profiles in distinguishing backyard eggs from barn eggs and highlight the nutritional benefits of the backyard-rearing system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over 10 million uninsured individuals are eligible for subsidized health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces, and millions more were projected to become eligible with the end of the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency in 2023. Individual studies on behaviorally informed interventions designed to encourage enrollment suggest that some are more effective than others. This study summarizes evidence on the efficacy of these interventions and suggests which administrative burdens might be most relevant for potential enrollees. Published and unpublished studies were identified through a systematic review of studies assessing the impact of behaviorally informed interventions on ACA marketplace enrollment from 2014 to 2022. Thirty-four studies comprising over 18 million participants were included (32 randomized controlled trials and 2 quasiexperimental studies). At the time of data extraction, 8 were published. Twenty-seven of the studies qualified for inclusion in a meta-analysis, which found that the average rate of enrollment was about 1 percentage point higher for those who received an intervention (0.009, P < 0.001), a 24% increase relative to control households; for every 1000 people who receive an intervention, that would correspond to about 9 additional enrollees. When stratifying by intervention intensity, support-based interventions increased enrollment by 2 percentage points (0.020, P = 0.004), while information-based interventions increased enrollment by 0.6 percentage points (0.006, P < 0.001). The meta-analysis found that behaviorally informed interventions can increase ACA marketplace enrollment. Interventions aimed at alleviating compliance costs by providing enrollment support were about three times as effective as information alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change, inter‐annual precipitation variability, recurrent droughts and flash flooding, coupled with increasing water needs, are shaping the co‐evolution of socioeconomic and cultural assemblages, water laws and regulations, and equitable drinking water access and allocation worldwide. Recognising the need for mitigation strategies for drinking water availability in urban areas, the Isotope Hydrology Section of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) coordinated a state‐of‐the‐art global assessment to evaluate water sources and distribution of drinking water supply in urban centres, an initiative entitled 'Use of Isotope Techniques for the Evaluation of Water Sources for Domestic Supply in Urban Areas (2018–2023)'. Here, we report on (a) current research trends for studying urban drinking water systems during the last two decades and (b) the development, testing and integration of new methodologies, aiming for a better assessment, mapping and management of water resources used for drinking water supply in urban settings. Selected examples of water isotope applications (Canada, USA, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Morocco, Botswana, Romania, Slovenia, India and Nepal) provide context to the insights and recommendations reported and highlight the versatility of water isotopes to underpin seasonal and temporal variations across various environmental and climate scenarios. The study revealed that urban areas depend on a large spectrum of water recharge across mountain ranges, extensive local groundwater extraction and water transfer from nearby or distant river basins. The latter is reflected in the spatial isotope snapshot variability. High‐resolution monitoring (hourly and sub‐hourly) isotope sampling revealed large diurnal variations in the wet tropics (Costa Rica) (up to 1.5‰ in δ18O) and more uniform diurnal variations in urban centres fed by groundwater sources (0.08‰ in δ18O) (Ljubljana, Slovenia). Similarly, while d‐excess was fairly close to the global mean value (+10‰) across all urban centres (10‰–15‰), reservoir‐based drinking water systems show lower values (up to ~ −20‰) (Arlington, TX, USA and Gaborone, Botswana), as a result of strong evapoconcentration processes. δ18O time series and depth‐integrated sampling highlighted the influence of the catchment damping ratio in the ultimate intake water composition. By introducing new, traceable spatial and temporal tools that span from the water source to the end‐user and are linked to the engineered and socio‐economic structure of the water distribution system, governmental, regional or community‐based water operators and practitioners could enhance drinking water treatment strategies (including more accurate surface water blending estimations) and improve urban water management and conservation plans in the light of global warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the evolution and aims of the European Association for Osseointegration (EAO) Junior Committee (JC). Materials and Methods: Former members of the EAO JC and members of the board were interviewed, and current projects and initiatives were summarized. Results: The EAO JC was launched in 2007 as the first young committee in Europe. Despite initial skepticism, it became a famous initiative, and the concept was copied by other dental and medical associations and societies. Since 2010, the committee organizes summer camps allowing young talents to discuss, network and interact beyond traditional boundaries. Conclusions: The EAO JC is giving fresh energy to the entire society and provides education and network opportunities for young clinicians and scientists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: This study investigates the relationship between food attitudes and the management of eating behavior from a psycho-nutritional perspective, with a focus on the Health Belief Model (HBM). The objective was to explore how emotional food cravings influence different aspects of eating behavior and dietary attitudes, and to identify indirect pathways through which these cravings affect attitudes toward dieting behaviors. Methods: Data were collected from 659 participants using validated scales that assessed dieting tendencies, bulimia and food preoccupation, culinary behaviors, food preoccupation, expectations of positive outcomes, and emotional food cravings. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlations, and network analysis were employed to uncover significant associations among these variables. A sequential mediation analysis was conducted using SPSS PROCESS Macro Model 6 to identify indirect pathways. Results: The analysis revealed significant associations among the variables. Emotional food craving had a negative indirect effect on dieting attitudes through bulimia tendencies (effect size: −0.523) and a positive indirect effect through food preoccupation (effect size: 0.1006). These results highlight the complex interplay between emotional food cravings, bulimia tendencies, and food preoccupation in shaping dieting attitudes. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the complex dynamic between emotional food cravings, bulimia tendencies, and food preoccupation, and their collective impact on dieting attitudes. This study provides insights into potential intervention strategies aimed at improving eating habits by addressing emotional food cravings and their indirect effects on dietary behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: This review aims to evaluate the current diagnostic standards for cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) in heart transplant recipients, with a focus on the role of positron emission tomography (PET) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). The review addresses the efficacy of PET as a non-invasive alternative to invasive coronary angiography (ICA) and discusses recent guidelines and advancements in the detection and management of CAV. Recent Findings: Recent research underscores the potential role of PET imaging in detecting CAV, particularly by assessing myocardial blood flow (MBF) and myocardial flow reserve (MFR). PET has emerged as a highly effective tool, offering potential advantages in diagnostic accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and reduced radiation exposure compared to ICA. The 2023 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation guidelines list PET MPI as a Class IIa indication for non-invasive CAV screening, highlighting its superior prognostic value. Studies demonstrate that PET-derived MBF and MFR correlate well with invasive measures and predict adverse outcomes, emphasizing the role of PET MPI in the early detection and management of CAV. Additionally, PET MPI can potentially reduce the need for frequent invasive procedures, thereby lowering healthcare costs. Summary: PET MPI significantly enhances the detection and prognostication of CAV in heart transplant recipients, providing a non-invasive, accurate, and cost-effective alternative to ICA. Integrating PET into routine surveillance protocols can improve early diagnosis and management of CAV, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes. Large multicenter studies are needed to optimize surveillance strategies and to further validate the role of PET in CAV detection and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the speaker and leadership development seminars during the 2023 EAO Summer Camp (SC). Materials and Methods: In September 2023, 24 participants joined the SC organized by the EAO Junior Committee (JC) in Lisbon, focused on enhancing public speaking and leadership skills. Facilitated by two experienced trainers, the program aimed to evaluate the participants' progress through pre‐, post‐training "immediate" and "delayed" (3 months after the event) anonymous questionnaires. The JC formulated a survey (JCS) addressing aspects of public speaking, presentation skills and leadership, how important the participants considered them and what type of training in this field they had received thus far. Results: Twenty‐three participants responded to the pre‐ and immediate post‐training surveys, 22 completed the delayed post‐training survey and 20 completed the JCS. The findings revealed increased confidence and comfort in public speaking post‐event, with sustained improvements over time, accompanied by positivity, pleasant feelings, and increased camaraderie. Post‐training delayed results also showed that reduced symptoms of anxiety before a speech were reported. The JCS highlighted that many participants had not properly acquired public speaking skills during university. Similarly, 19 out of 20 participants felt that leadership skills were important in contemporary dentistry but not properly taught in dental school curriculums. Conclusions: The 2023 EAO SC was a successful event providing advanced training in leadership and public speaking skills. However, a notable number of young dentists continue to experience anxiety when faced with presentations, indicating a potential need for additional training to relieve stress and enhance confidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid advancement of Big Data and artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed management accounting practices, necessitating a reevaluation of job profiles and skill-sets required for professionals in this field. This study explores managerial accounting practices in Romanian contexts, examining how digital technology aligns with competitive strategy, managerial efficiency, human resources constraints, and limited resources constraints. Grounded in technology determinism and the resource-based view theory, this research identifies factors influencing the successful implementation of and challenges associated with managerial accounting practices. A sequential mediation analysis investigates pathways wherein investments in human resources and constraints related to limited resources influence managerial advancement through digital technology and competitive strategy. This study emphasizes digital technologies' role in optimizing costs, enhancing operational processes, and facilitating strategic decision-making. This study's conclusions show that, even in situations with limited resources, digital transformation projects greatly improve managerial effectiveness and competitive strategy. The participants included 406 professional accountants from the Romanian accounting community. Practical implications for companies include the necessity for strategic planning in digital implementations to mitigate constraints and capitalize on opportunities for sustainable growth and competitive advantage. This report provides a path to optimize the potential of digital technology and gives practical recommendations for researchers and business leaders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medium-fluence fast electron irradiation (1019 e/cm2 to 1020 e/cm2) or the changes in the praseodymium concentration in the range of 0.0 ≤ z ≤ 0.5 on the excess conductivity of YBa2Cu3O7–δ single crystals ware investigated. These can lead to a wider range of the temperature interval of excess conductivity which narrows the interval of linearity in the ab plane. At fluences 0 ≤ Φ ≤ 6.5 × 1019 e/cm2, there was a threefold increase in the transverse coherence length ξc(0) with an increase in Φ of more than four times as the praseodymium concentration increased to z ≈ 0.42. The two-dimensional–three-dimensional (2D–3D) crossover point shifted upward in temperature. Conversely, to irradiation with low fluences (Φ ≤ 1019 e/cm2) or low praseodymium doping (z ≤ 0.39), irradiation with medium fluences or high praseodymium doping led to a non-monotonic dependence of ξc(0) on the irradiation fluence, with characteristic maxima at Φ~(7–8) × 1019 e/cm2 and z ≈ 0.42, likely due to the suppression of the superconducting characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Vessel-specific coronary artery calcification (CAC) is additive to global CAC for prognostic assessment. We assessed accuracy and prognostic implications of vessel-specific automated deep learning (DL) CAC analysis on electrocardiogram (ECG) gated and attenuation correction (AC) computed tomography (CT) in a large multi-centre registry. Methods and results Vessel-specific CAC was assessed in the left main/left anterior descending (LM/LAD), left circumflex (LCX), and right coronary artery (RCA) using a DL model trained on 3000 gated CT and tested on 2094 gated CT and 5969 non-gated AC CT. Vessel-specific agreement was assessed with linear weighted Cohen's Kappa for CAC zero, 1–100, 101–400, and >400 Agatston units (AU). Risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) was assessed during 2.4 ± 1.4 years follow-up, with hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). There was strong to excellent agreement between DL and expert ground truth for CAC in LM/LAD, LCX and RCA on gated CT [0.90 (95% CI 0.89 to 0.92); 0.70 (0.68 to 0.73); 0.79 (0.77 to 0.81)] and AC CT [0.78 (0.77 to 0.80); 0.60 (0.58 to 0.62); 0.70 (0.68 to 0.71)]. MACE occurred in 242 (12%) undergoing gated CT and 841(14%) of undergoing AC CT. LM/LAD CAC >400 AU was associated with the highest risk of MACE on gated (HR 12.0, 95% CI 7.96, 18.0, P < 0.001) and AC CT (HR 4.21, 95% CI 3.48, 5.08, P < 0.001). Conclusion Vessel-specific CAC assessment with DL can be performed accurately and rapidly on gated CT and AC CT and provides important prognostic information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, the role of tumor biomechanics on cancer cell behavior at the primary site has been increasingly appreciated. However, the effect of primary tumor biomechanics on the latter stages of the metastatic cascade, such as metastatic seeding of secondary sites and outgrowth remains underappreciated. This work sought to address this in the context of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), a cancer type known to aggressively disseminate at all stages of disease progression. Using mechanically tuneable model systems, mimicking the range of stiffness's typically found within breast tumors, it is found that, contrary to expectations, cancer cells exposed to softer microenvironments are more able to colonize secondary tissues. It is shown that heightened cell survival is driven by enhanced metabolism of fatty acids within TNBC cells exposed to softer microenvironments. It is demonstrated that uncoupling cellular mechanosensing through integrin β1 blocking antibody effectively causes stiff primed TNBC cells to behave like their soft counterparts, both in vitro and in vivo. This work is the first to show that softer tumor microenvironments may be contributing to changes in disease outcome by imprinting on TNBC cells a greater metabolic flexibility and conferring discrete cell survival advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of electron irradiation with energies of 0.5–2.5 MeV with fluences up to 70 × 1018 cm–2 on the electrical resistivity in the basal plane of YBa2Cu3O7–δ single crystals in the temperature range from the superconducting transition, Tc, to 300 K has been studied. Such irradiation leads to the appearance of a significant number of defects that cause a decrease in anisotropy, an appreciable increase in phonon scattering, reduction of Tc, and broadening of the superconducting transition. Under the conditions specified, the temperature dependence of electrical resistivity is approximated with high accuracy by the charge carriers’ scattering on defects and phonons, and fluctuating conductivity in the Lawrence-Doniach (LD) model. The dependences of approximation parameters on fluence are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Applied Health Sciences is the property of University of Applied Health Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this article we present the first investigation of the stable isotope composition of groundwater in Romania, East-Central Europe, with a focus on the karst areas. Our aim is twofold: (1) to provide a countrywide map with the distribution of stable oxygen and hydrogen isotope ratios in groundwater, and (2) to assess the recharge patterns of karst water. We collected more than 600 water samples from springs and wells across Romania for stable isotope analyses and monitored in detail the stable isotope composition of the waters as they pass through five cave systems. Our data show a spatial distribution of the stable isotope composition of the groundwater with low values in the mountainous area and high values in the surrounding lowlands and the central Transylvanian Depression. However, waters in karst areas induce departures from this distribution, resulting from the fast (hours to days) transfer of waters from high (ponor) to low (spring) altitudes. Water emerging from the karst springs has generally lower δ values than before sinking through the ponors, thus indicating a substantial contribution of winter recharge through diffuse infiltration and seepage. This contribution results in overall dilution of the water entering through ponors, likely resulting in changes in the chemical composition of the water and diluting potential pollutants. Our data call for careful separation between karst and non-karst spring/well waters, as indiscriminate common treatment might lead to erroneous interpretations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Simplified ablation technologies for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) are increasingly performed worldwide. One of the most common complications following PVI are vascular access-related complications. Lately, venous closure systems (VCSs) were introduced into clinical practice, aiming to reduce the time of bed rest, to increase the patients' comfort, and to reduce vascular access-related complications. The aim of the present study is to compare the safety and efficacy of using a VCS to achieve haemostasis following single-shot PVI to the actual standard of care [figure-of-eight suture and manual compression (MC)]. Methods and results This is a prospective, multicentre, randomized, controlled, open-label trial performed at three German centres. Patients were randomized 1:1 to undergo haemostasis either by means of VCS (VCS group) or of a figure-of-eight suture and MC (F8 group). The primary efficacy endpoint was the time to ambulation, while the primary safety endpoint was the incidence of major periprocedural adverse events until hospital discharge. A total of 125 patients were randomized. The baseline characteristics were similar between the groups. The VCS group showed a shorter time to ambulation [109.0 (82.0, 160.0) vs. 269.0 (243.8, 340.5) min; P < 0.001], shorter time to haemostasis [1 (1, 2) vs. 5 (2, 10) min; P < 0.001], and shorter time to discharge eligibility [270 (270, 270) vs. 340 (300, 458) min; P < 0.001]. No major vascular access-related complication was reported in either group. A trend towards a lower incidence of minor vascular access-related complications on the day of procedure was observed in the VCS group [7 (11.1%) vs. 15 (24.2%); P = 0.063] as compared to the control group. Conclusion Following AF ablation, the use of a VCS results in a significantly shorter time to ambulation, time to haemostasis, and time to discharge eligibility. No major vascular access-related complications were identified. The use of MC and a figure-of-eight suture showed a trend towards a higher incidence of minor vascular access-related complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The internet has become a part of everyday life, and during the COVID-19 pandemic the rate of internet use has raised even higher, which increases the possibility of compulsive and problematic use leading to the acceptance of online misbeliefs and conspiration theories. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the relationship between COVID-19-related misconceptions and internet addiction among adult recreational online gamers. Methods: A sample of 1671 recreational video game users completed the online survey (male: n = 1522 (91.08%), mean age = 21.83, SD = 4.18; female: n = 149 (8.91%), mean age = 24.33, SD = 8.38). Demographic questions, risk factors and health-related questions, internet use and addiction were measured alongside a short questionnaire about common COVID-19-related topics, such as its origin and risk of infection. Results: Out of all participants 248 (14.8%) answered all the COVID-19-related questions properly, thus having no misconceptions, while 545 (32.6%) had one wrong answer, 532 (31.8%) had 2 wrong answers, 251 (15.0%) had 3 wrong answers, 78 (4.7%) had 4 wrong answers and 17 (1.0%) had 5 wrong answers. Significant factors to a higher number of COVID-misconceptions were time spent studying (χ 2 (35,1671) = 63.86, p = 0.002), marital status (χ 2 (15,1671) = 30.65 p = 0.01) and secondary employment (χ 2 (51,671) = 14.88, p = 0.01). Although 17.1% of the participants reached the threshold score for internet addiction, the predictors of COVID-19 misconceptions were marital status (β = − 0.06, p = 0.01) and time spent studying (β = 0.05, p = 0.03), while neither daily internet use, internet addiction scores or risk factors predicted these misconceptions in a linear regression model. Discussion: Our study concludes that Internet addiction did not directly influence misconceptions about the COVID-19 pandemic in this population despite the surprisingly high rate of problematic users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Problematic usage of the internet (PUI) is perhaps one of the most frequently studied phenomena of the 21st century receiving increasing attention in both scientific literature and the media. Despite intensive research there have been relatively few meaningful studies among elementary school students in Hungary and worldwide, who may be considered as a high-risk population with regard to problematic internet use. The aim of our study was to carry out a complex research focusing on the prevalence and risk factors of PUI among elementary school children aged 10–15 years (Grade 5–8). Methods: Demographics included were gender, age, place of stay, type of residence, family type, parental education, start of internet use, used devices, daily internet use, purpose of internet use, internet accounts, ways of keeping in touch with friends and sporting activities. PUI was evaluated using the paper-based version of the Potentially Problematic Use of the Internet Questionnaire. Results: Overall, 2000 paper-based questionnaires were successfully delivered and the final analysis included 1168 responses (overall response rate 58.4%). Mean age was 12.55 ± 1.24 years. Female gender (OR = 2.760, p = 0,006, CI 95% 0.065 to 0.384), younger age (11–12 years) (OR = 3.812, p < 0.001, 95% CI: 1.747–4.731), early exposure to the internet (OR = 3.466, p = 0.001, 95% CI 1.535–5.446), living in a small village (OR = 1.081, p = 0.002, 95% CI 1.041–1.186) urgency to answer online (OR = 4.677, p < 0.001, 95% CI: 2.714–6.639), decreased frequency of personal contact with friends (OR = 2.897, p = 0.004, 95% CI: 1.037–1.681), spending more than 6 h online (OR = 12.913, p < 0.001, 95% CI: 10.798–14.892), morning and nighttime internet use (OR = 3.846, p < 0.001, CI 95% 1.886–5.810) and never doing any sports (OR = 2.016, p = 0.044, 95% CI: 1.050–3.354) were independently associated with problematic internet use. Conclusions: Based on the results of our questionnaire survey more than 10% seemed to be problematic users in our study population, which is a relatively high rate. Early exposure to the internet as well as younger age were strongly related to this phenomenon. Duration of being online as well as daily time interval of internet use are important predisposing factors. Scarcely studied social factors such as being online at the expense of personal relationships and the lack of physical activity should be payed more attention to prevent the development of PUI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous reports have documented the discrimination, physical, and verbal attacks on LGBTQIA+ people throughout the world and the situation in Slovenia, a Central European country, is similar, albeit with its own national and historic specifics. Therefore, we see it as crucial to identify the prevailing negative discourses about the LGBTQIA+ community within this country. In this paper, we identify different negative discourses about non-normative sexual and gender identities in Slovenia by analyzing hateful online comments posted under different LGBTQIA-related articles on the most frequented Slovenian news websites. We identified seven different themes within anti-LGBTQIA+ discourses with the current article focusing on themes of the Hegemonic binary and Non-normative identities. The anti-LGBTQIA+ discourses identified in this article often denigrate the non-normative LGBTQIA+ identity and discursively construct it as inferior to the prevailing cis-heterosexual identity. We argue that identified discourses are linked with the resurgence of the anti-gender movement and the retraditionalization of society and also constitute a form of violence, which is especially true for violence directed at subjects constituted as dispensable, whose life is seen as not worth valuing and not worth living, which are often members of the LGBTQIA+ community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ependymomas (EPN) are central nervous system neoplasms that exhibit an ependymal phenotype. In particular, supratentorial EPN (ST‐EPN) must be differentiated from more aggressive entities such as glioblastoma, IDH‐wildtype. This task is frequently addressed with the use of immunohistochemistry coupled with clinical presentation and morphological features. Here we describe the case of a young adult presenting with migraine‐like symptoms and a temporoinsular‐based expansile mass that was first diagnosed as a GBM, mostly based on strong and diffuse oligodendrocyte transcription factor 2 (OLIG2) expression. Molecular characterization revealed a ZFTA::RELA fusion, supporting the diagnosis of ST‐EPN, ZFTA fusion‐positive. OLIG2 expression is rarely reported in tumors other than GBM and oligodendrocyte‐lineage committed neoplasms. The patient was treated with radiotherapy and temozolomide after surgery and was alive and well at follow‐up. This report illustrates the need to assess immunostains within a broader clinical, morphological and molecular context to avoid premature exclusion of important differential diagnoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Science and Society Research Group at the Ludovika University of Public Service organised a conference in Budapest on 13 October 2023 titled: ‘Science and disinformation: how science can support society against disinformation’. The conference explored the complex relationship between science, society, and disinformation. A panel discussion was held with the aim of examining the challenges and strategies for science communication in the context of the ever-increasing issues of dis-/misinformation. The discussion highlighted the multifaceted factors that influence public trust in science; the role of digital culture on science communication and scientific knowledge production; the impact of artificial intelligence; and the relationship between science and business developments on science disinformation, especially on science-related conspiracy theories. The participants helped shed light on how science communication strategies can be improved to stabilise trust in a multi-stakeholder information environment. This article summarises the main insights and conclusions from the discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the fatty acids and elemental profiles of 53 pork cut samples were determined. To offer insights into their potential health implications, we computed 18 key nutritional indices. These indices included parameters such as saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs), the MUFAs/SFAs ratio, PUFAs/SFAs ratio, atherogenic index (AI), thrombogenic index (TI), the hypocholesterolemic to hypercholesterolemic ratio (h/H), health-promoting index (HPI), hypocholesterolemic index (HI), unsaturation index (UI), saturation index (SI), peroxidizability index (PI), nutritional value index (NVI), hypocholesterolemic index of fatty acids (DFAs), hypercholesterolemic index of fatty acids (OFAs), and the DFAs/OFAs ratio. These indices were calculated based on their fatty acid composition to provide comprehensive nutritional information. A health risk assessment revealed the safety and minimum health risk for the population from consuming the investigated pork cuts using the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), Hazard Index (HI), and target cancer risk (TR). The ANOVA test showed significant differences in the levels of K, Fe, Mn, Zn, MUFAs, and AI among the pork cut samples. It was noted that by employing the correlation between the fatty acids profile, nutritional indices, and elemental concentrations and an unsupervised statistical method, such as PCA, a perfect separation from the different pork cuts could not be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) volume and attenuation are associated with cardiovascular risk, but manual annotation is time-consuming. We evaluated whether automated deep learning-based EAT measurements from ungated computed tomography (CT) are associated with death or myocardial infarction (MI). We included 8781 patients from 4 sites without known coronary artery disease who underwent hybrid myocardial perfusion imaging. Of those, 500 patients from one site were used for model training and validation, with the remaining patients held out for testing (n = 3511 internal testing, n = 4770 external testing). We modified an existing deep learning model to first identify the cardiac silhouette, then automatically segment EAT based on attenuation thresholds. Deep learning EAT measurements were obtained in <2 s compared to 15 min for expert annotations. There was excellent agreement between EAT attenuation (Spearman correlation 0.90 internal, 0.82 external) and volume (Spearman correlation 0.90 internal, 0.91 external) by deep learning and expert segmentation in all 3 sites (Spearman correlation 0.90–0.98). During median follow-up of 2.7 years (IQR 1.6–4.9), 565 patients experienced death or MI. Elevated EAT volume and attenuation were independently associated with an increased risk of death or MI after adjustment for relevant confounders. Deep learning can automatically measure EAT volume and attenuation from low-dose, ungated CT with excellent correlation with expert annotations, but in a fraction of the time. EAT measurements offer additional prognostic insights within the context of hybrid perfusion imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Österreichische Wasser- und Abfallwirtschaft is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: This study aimed to compare the predictive value of CT attenuation-corrected stress total perfusion deficit (AC-sTPD) and non-corrected stress TPD (NC-sTPD) for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in obese patients undergoing cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). Methods: The study included 4,585 patients who underwent CZT SPECT/CT MPI for clinical indications (chest pain: 56%, shortness of breath: 13%, other: 32%) at Yale New Haven Hospital (age: 64 ± 12 years, 45% female, body mass index [BMI]: 30.0 ± 6.3 kg/m2, prior coronary artery disease: 18%). The association between AC-sTPD or NC-sTPD and MACE defined as the composite end point of mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction or late coronary revascularization (> 90 days after SPECT) was evaluated with survival analysis. Results: During a median follow-up of 25 months, 453 patients (10%) experienced MACE. In patients with BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 (n = 931), those with AC-sTPD ≥ 3% had worse MACE-free survival than those with AC-sTPD < 3% (HR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.40 – 3.55, p = 0.002) with no difference in MACE-free survival between patients with NC-sTPD ≥ 3% and NC-sTPD < 3% (HR:1.06, 95% CI:0.67 – 1.68, p = 0.78). AC-sTPD had higher AUC than NC-sTPD for the detection of 2-year MACE in patients with BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 (0.631 versus 0.541, p = 0.01). In the overall cohort AC-sTPD had a higher ROC area under the curve (AUC, 0.641) than NC-sTPD (0.608; P = 0.01) for detection of 2-year MACE. In patients with BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 AC sTPD provided significant incremental prognostic value beyond NC sTPD (net reclassification index: 0.14 [95% CI: 0.20 – 0.28]). Conclusions: AC sTPD outperformed NC sTPD in predicting MACE in patients undergoing SPECT MPI with BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2. These findings highlight the superior prognostic value of AC-sTPD in this patient population and underscore the importance of CT attenuation correction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technology integration in social work practice has become increasingly prevalent, offering new avenues to enhance resilience and promote transformative action. However, careful consideration of ethical implications is crucial to ensure that the benefits of technology are maximized while minimizing potential risks and inequities. Social workers must actively engage in developing ethical frameworks and guidelines that balance the transformative potential of technology with the protection of individual rights, privacy, and social justice. Our paper provides an overview of ethical implications associated with using technology in social work practice. Drawing upon a systematic review of relevant literature published between 2019 and 2023, our study highlights key ethical considerations, identifying potential challenges. Three major ethical themes arose: client privacy and confidentiality, professional boundaries, and equitable access to technology. Regarding client privacy and confidentiality, safeguarding sensitive client information and ensuring secure data transmission are crucial concerns. Ethical guidelines and standards should be updated and social workers should possess the necessary knowledge and skills to implement appropriate privacy and security measures. Professional boundaries are another critical ethical consideration when incorporating technology in social work. Online platforms, social media, and virtual communities blur the boundaries between personal and professional lives, demanding heightened vigilance to maintain objectivity, professionalism, and appropriate relationships with clients. Clear ethical guidance should be provided on the use of social media, online self‑disclosure, and dual relationships to prevent potential harm to clients and protect professional integrity. Equitable access to technology is an ethical issue of social justice. Disparities in access to technology must be considered by social workers, requiring proactive efforts in order to bridge the digital divide and prevent further marginalization. To address these challenges, continuous professional development and ethical supervision should equip social workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of technology integration while upholding ethical standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resilience of delinquent youth within the juvenile justice system is an area of growing interest and importance, especially for social workers involved in the field of custodial and non‑custodial criminal sanctions. This research seeks to provide scientific explanations of the facts and psycho‑social processes in the lives of delinquent minors, during the execution of a custodial or non‑custodial educational measure, as a resource for developing practical intervention strategies by the social work professionals. The aim of the research is to explore the resilience of delinquent minors executing an educational measure while highlighting factors likely to inhibit or favor their resilience. The sample comprises 60 juvenile delinquents (30 under custodial measures and 30 under non‑custodial educational measure). The research methods employed include focus group interviews, analysis of personal files, and brief individual interviews. Our research highlights the role of individual, family and contextual factors in shaping the resilience of delinquent youth. Understanding the interaction between these factors is crucial for professionals to design effective interventions that enhance resilience and reduce juvenile delinquency. The present research enhances social work practice by deepening comprehension of adaptive capacities and potential for positive change among delinquent youth. The discoveries hold significant implications for both policy and practice within the juvenile justice system, highlighting the importance of cultivating resilience and facilitating successful rehabilitation. Ultimately, this research endeavors to facilitate the creation of evidence‑based interventions by social workers, empowering delinquent youth to overcome adversity and build better futures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Atrio‐esophageal fistula after esophageal thermal injury (ETI) is one of the most devastating complications of available energy sources for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. Pulsed field ablation (PFA) uses electroporation as a new energy source for catheter ablation with promising periprocedural safety advantages over existing methods due to its unique myocardial tissue sensitivity. In preclinical animal studies, a dose‐dependent esophageal temperature rise has been reported. In the TESO‐PFA registry intraluminal esophageal temperature (TESO) changes in a clinical setting are evaluated. Methods: Consecutive symptomatic AF patients (62 years, 67% male, 61% paroxysmal AF, CHA2DS2Vasc Score 2) underwent first‐time PFA and were prospectively enrolled into our registry. Eight pulse trains (2 kV/2.5 s, bipolar, biphasic, x4 basket/flower configuration each) were delivered to each pulmonary vein (PV). Two extra pulse trains per PV in flower configuration were added for wide antral circumferential ablation. Continuous intraluminal esophageal temperature (TESO) was monitored with a 12‐pole temperature probe. Results: Median TESO change was statistically significant and increased by 0.8 ± 0.6°C, p <.001. A TESO increase ≥ 1°C was observed in 10/43 (23%) patients. The highest TESO measured was 40.3°C. The largest TESO difference (∆TESO) was 3.7°C. All patients remained asymptomatic considering possible ETI. No atrio‐esophageal fistula was reported on follow‐up. Conclusion: A small but significant intraluminal esophageal temperature rise can be observed in most patients during PFA. TESO rise over 40°C is rare. The clinical implications of the observed findings need to be further evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extreme winter temperatures govern the northern range limit of black mangroves (Avicennia germinans) in southeastern North America. There is a pressing need for studies that advance our understanding of how extreme cold temperature events affect mangroves near their range limits. However, such events are infrequent and challenging to study at regional scales. Here, we compared the damage to mangroves from extreme freeze events in 2018 and 2021, using local data from sites in USA (Florida, Louisiana, and Texas) and northeastern Mexico (Tamaulipas). In 2018, mangrove damage was concentrated in Louisiana and the upper Texas coast, where minimum temperatures ranged from -4 °C to -7 °C. In 2021, damage from a more severe freeze event was concentrated along the central to northern coasts of Texas, where minimum temperatures ranged from -4 °C to -10 °C. We used regional temperature and vegetation data from these events to quantify temperature thresholds for A. germinans leaf damage. Our results indicate that A. germinans leaf damage is likely to occur when temperatures are between -4 °C and -6 °C. These findings help refine temperature thresholds for A. germinans leaf damage and advance understanding of the effects of extreme freeze events on mangrove range expansion. This information is valuable for anticipating future range dynamics in a warming world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]