Search

Key message: Differences in architectural traits of European beech saplings submitted to different levels of competition intensity and neighborhood diversity show a shift toward lateral growth exploration for overtopped trees but less expressed apical control is maintained for beech grown with conifers. Crown plasticity is a fundamental process to optimize the acquisition of light in forests, where it is often the limiting factor for growth. The processes leading to crown dynamics in response to biotic interaction are controlled by the competitive status of a tree, as well as the species diversity of the neighborhood. Yet, the ontogenic diversity of the different branches leading to crown structure makes it difficult to model crown plasticity. In this study, we used single-image photogrammetry and a semi-automatic topology reconstruction software to map the architecture of 3-year-old European beech trees (Fagus sylvatica L.) grown in pure pots or mixed with Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirbel) Franco) or Norway spruce (Piceaabies L. H.Karst). Further, we investigated the effect of competition intensity (estimated with height rank) and neighbourhood diversity on architectural traits. To do so, we quantified the mean volume, slenderness, number of branches, branching rate, internode length, and diameter ratio for each stem and branch, up to the order three. Overtopped trees developed fewer branches and biomass but allocated more biomass to branches of a higher order than to the stem. The increase in the ramification of the stem and the diameter ratio of the first-order branches for overtopped trees indicate a shift in the growth strategy and a decrease in apical control. As competition intensity and neighbour identity have opposite effects on stem traits, it seems that the positive effect of plant diversity on growth can be attributed to the intrinsic effects of species identity rather than to competition release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Childhood blindness remains a neglected issue in eye care within low-income countries, with congenital and juvenile cataracts being the most common treatable causes. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the management of congenital and juvenile bilateral cataracts, provide data on general outcomes and postoperative findings, and discuss treatment in a low-income country context. Methods: In this prospective study, data from clinical care were continuously entered into a database, and one follow-up examination of a cohort of 91 patients with congenital and juvenile bilateral cataracts in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, was conducted. Multiple factors that affect the first clinical presentation, the clinical management, and outcome were investigated. Results: Most patients (88.5%) who received medical treatment were identified by cataract finders. A patient's presentation time was independent of the parent's education, social status, income, and sex of the child. The median age at first presentation was 5.8 years (ranging from 0 days to 17.3 years). The best visual acuity outcomes were achieved by patients who underwent surgery during early childhood. According to WHO grades and on an eye level basis, 51.1% (93 out of 182 eyes) showed improvement, while 34.6% (63 eyes) had unchanged results post-surgery. Among the cases without improvement, 76.2% were blind prior to surgery. Postoperative findings were observed in 56% of the patients, with secondary cataracts being the most common, affecting 26.37% of the operated eyes. Conclusions: Optimal management of childhood cataracts involves early identification, efficient hospital infrastructure, high-quality medical care, and long-term follow up. In sub-Saharan Africa, this approach must be adapted to the context of available resources, which differs significantly from those in high- and middle-income countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sperm whales spatially segregate by sex and social behavior as they mature. In the North Atlantic, male whales move to higher latitudes as far as Svalbard at 80° N, while females and young whales typically remain around lower latitudes below 40–45° N. The Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands constitute important nursery grounds for female and young sperm whales. Irish waters represent a midpoint for this species' spatial segregation in the Northeast Atlantic, where the species occurs along the submarine canyon systems to the west of the country. Historically, just male whales were thought to be found in this region between 51 and 55° N, but one adult female was caught by commercial whalers in 1910, and a 5.49 m calf was found stranded in 1916. Between 1995 and 2023, 10 female sperm whales have been stranded around the coast of Ireland. Eight of these whales have been stranded since 2013, and there has been at least one stranding per year between 2019 and 2023. Four of these strandings have occurred in Donegal in the northwest of Ireland, indicating the presence of female whales along the continental shelf off this region. Two females were stranded within a day of each other and were found in similar states of decomposition in February 2022, indicating that they may have been part of the same group rather than being lone vagrant individuals. Sperm whale calves and juveniles were also sighted in Irish waters in 2001, 2004, and 2010 in the Rockall Trough, along the Porcupine Bank and Goban Spur, where between 1 and 3 individuals were observed on four occasions while one calf live stranded in 2004. These records indicate a historical presence of female and young sperm whales in this region but that an apparent increase in occurrence has taken place over the past decade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study intended to explore possible variations among youth adjudicated for sexual offenses based on personal criminogenic factors, offense, and victim characteristics. Utilizing a data set collected from the juvenile court files in Turkey (n = 460), the Latent Class Analysis revealed that the study sample included three different subgroups with distinct features: "non-delinquent, peer victim-targeting," "non-delinquent, younger victim-targeting," and "delinquent, versatile" youth adjudicated for sex offenses. The first two of these groups were similar in terms of having low levels of delinquency, while the third group included the lowest number of youth with significantly broad delinquent activity patterns. These findings were in line with the results of previous studies, and the implications were discussed for future research and policy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Adult dermatomyositis (DM) and juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) are rare autoimmune diseases with characteristic skin rashes, weakness, and other systemic features. Upregulated interferon signaling has been consistently described in both adult and juvenile DM which makes janus kinase inhibitors (jakinibs) an attractive therapeutic agent that has a targeted mechanism of action. Areas covered: Herein is a review of the growing literature of jakinib use in adult and juvenile DM, including reports on specific disease features and safety of jakinibs in this population and a comparison between adult and juvenile DM. We performed a literature review using PubMed including all English-language publications before 1 February 2024 and abstracts from key recent rheumatology conferences. Expert opinion: Jakinibs are an exciting and promising treatment in both adult and juvenile DM. Current Phase 2 and 3 randomized placebo-controlled trials of jakinibs in both adult and JDM will provide significant insights into the efficacy of this class of medication as a potentially more mechanistically targeted treatment of both skin and muscle disease. In fact, these results will likely inform the treatment paradigm of dermatomyositis in that it may even be considered as first or second line. The next five years in the therapeutic landscape of both juvenile and adult DM is an exciting time for both patients and medical providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Otosclerosis is a relatively uncommon condition that causes conductive hearing loss in children. The preferred treatment for adults is stapedotomy, while for individuals under 18 years old, there is an ongoing discussion about the best treatment approach. Thus, the surgical procedure for the stapes in pediatric patients continues to be a subject of debate. This study aimed to evaluate the results of stapes surgery in children, trying to understand, based on our results, whether this is actually the most suitable option. Methods: The study included 18 patients who underwent surgery between January 2013 and December 2023. The patients' ages ranged from 11 to 18 years, with an average age of 14.7. Out of the total 21 surgeries, three patients opted for bilateral surgery. Pre- and post-operative data were compared, focusing on the mean air conduction (AC) and bone conduction (BC) thresholds at frequencies of 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz. Additionally, pre-operative thresholds and the post-operative air–bone gap (ABG) were examined. Results: After a year, the air–bone gap was effectively reduced to 10 dB or less in 94% of the 21 cases, and to 20 dB or less in 98% of all cases. Conclusions: Our results and research in the field have consistently shown that stapedotomy, when conducted by skilled otosurgeons, is a reliable and successful procedure for a considerable number of patients. The outcomes it generates are similar to those achieved through the procedure conducted during adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most studies on the feeding ecology of larvae and juveniles of commercially important pelagic fishes have used field-based approaches. However, due to possible biases related to net sampling, it is uncertain whether the results obtained from those studies truly represent the situation of live fish in the sea. Here we investigated the feeding ecology of pelagic fishes through a laboratory experiment minimizing the biases inherent in field net sampling. In the experiment, hatchery-reared juvenile chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus) and larval/juvenile Japanese anchovy (Engraulis japonicus) were fed with wild-caught zooplankton assemblages collected from around Hakatajima Island in the Seto Inland Sea, Japan. The relationships between fish size and prey number in the gut, and the selectivity on each prey organism were determined. As a result, in both species, prey number and size increased with body size, and the fish showed strong selectivity for crustaceans including copepodites and adults of copepods. Our data has also clearly indicated that both species can selectively prey on preferred foods that are rare while avoiding non-preferred foods that are abundant. These results, which substantially accord with reports from previous field studies, will not only help field scientists make a convincing interpretation of their data, but also open the possibility of further laboratory studies on detailed mechanisms of the feeding selectivity of larval/juvenile pelagic fishes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To estimate mortality and survival rates of SLE in a contemporary, population-based setting and assess potential influences by time, sex, ethnicity, classification criteria and age at diagnosis. Methods We assessed mortality and survival in the Nor-SLE cohort, which includes all chart review–confirmed SLE cases resident in Southeast Norway (population 2.9 million) 1999–2017. Study end was at death, emigration or 1 October 2022. We defined juvenile SLE by age <16 years at diagnosis. For standardized mortality rate (SMR) estimates, we applied 15 population controls per case, all matched for age, sex, residency and ethnicity. We analysed survival by Kaplan–Meier and risk factors by Cox regression. Results The Nor-SLE cohort included 1558 SLE cases, of whom 749 were incident and met the 2019 EULAR and ACR (2019-EA) classification criteria. SMR was increased to 1.8 (95% CI 1.6–2.2) in incident adult-onset SLE but did not differ between females and males. Survival rates at 5, 10, 15 and 20 years were lower in incident adult-onset SLE than in matched controls. In multivariable analysis, LN associated with decreased survival, while sex did not. Separate, long-term mortality analyses in the total Nor-SLE cohort showed that SMR peaked at 7.2 (95% CI 3.3–14) in juvenile-onset SLE (n  = 93) and fell gradually by increasing age at SLE diagnosis. Conclusion This study shows persistence of a mortality gap between adult-onset SLE and controls at population level and provides indications of worryingly high mortality in juvenile-onset SLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the passage of the Wild Free‐Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971, federal agencies have been responsible for managing free‐roaming equids in the United States. Over the last 20 years, management has been hampered by direct opposition from advocacy groups, budget limitations, and a decline in the public's willingness to adopt free‐roaming horses (Equus caballus). As a result, free‐roaming equid numbers have increased to >3 times the targeted goal of 26,785 (horses and burros [E. asinus] combined), the cumulative sum of the appropriate management levels (AML) for all 177 designated herd management areas (HMA) managed by the Bureau of Land Management. This increase is one of the causes of greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) population declines, owing to habitat alteration from free‐roaming equids exacerbated by ongoing drought. To evaluate potential demographic mechanisms influencing these declines, we compiled survival data from 4 studies in central Wyoming, USA, including 995 adult female (first‐year breeders or older) sage‐grouse during the breeding season, 1,075 nests, 372 broods, and 136 juveniles (i.e., overwinter survival for fledged young), from 2008–2022. During this period, we also obtained population information for free‐roaming horses from 9 HMAs used by individual grouse in our sample. Population estimates of free‐roaming horses for these HMAs ranged from 59% to 7 times of the maximum appropriate management level (AMLmax). Sage‐grouse monitored outside of HMAs represented control populations and, because we assumed they were not exposed to populations of free‐roaming horses, we set values of AMLmax to zero for all grouse located outside of HMAs. To evaluate whether free‐roaming horses were negatively affecting sage‐grouse, we modeled daily survival of breeding age females, nest, broods, and juveniles. There was strong or moderate evidence that overabundant free‐roaming horses negatively affected nest, brood, and juvenile survival. When horse abundance increased from AMLmax to 3 times AMLmax, survival was reduced 8.1%, 18.3%, 18.2%, and 18.2% for nests, early broods (≤20 days after hatch), late broods (>20 days to 35 days after hatch), and juveniles, respectively. These results indicate increasing free‐roaming horse numbers affected vital rates for important life stages of sage‐grouse, and that maintaining free‐roaming horse numbers below AMLmax would reduce negative effects to sage‐grouse populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Intertidal habitat preferences and spatiotemporal variation in the abundance of juvenile Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis in Yangtze Estuary are reported. Methods: The size and abundance of this crab are reported for mud flat, gravel, root belt, and marsh habitats in this estuary's lower, middle, and upper reaches from June 2021 (spring) to February 2022 (winter) using quadrat method. Results: Juvenile E. sinensis of carapace length (CL) 5.5 ± 2.1 mm (mean ± standard deviation) were collected; no juveniles were found in February 2022. Crab abundance in root belt and gravel habitats usually exceeded that of marsh habitat; no juveniles were found in mud flat habitat. The greatest abundances and smallest individuals were found when megalopa recruited in early spring (June); juvenile abundance decreased sharply afterwards, and crabs were absent from the intertidal during winter. Size and relative growth rate of juvenile crabs were greater in root belt and gravel habitat than in marsh habitat from June to August. Recruitment primarily drove changes in crab abundance and size during June and July, and temperature best correlated with changes in the winter. Many stage I juveniles (CL < 3.1 mm) occurred in the lower estuarine reaches, while stage III and IV juveniles (CL 3.9-6.5 mm) primarily occurred in the middle and upper estuarine reaches. Discussion: Although intertidal wetland habitat in Yangtze Estuary is severely degraded and reduced in area, it remains important for recruitment and maintenance of mitten crab populations. An understanding of the habitat requirements of this species will benefit management of this crab resource and the prioritized restoration of intertidal habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Intertidal habitat preferences and spatiotemporal variation in the abundance of juvenile Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis in Yangtze Estuary are reported. Methods: The size and abundance of this crab are reported for mud flat, gravel, root belt, and marsh habitats in this estuary's lower, middle, and upper reaches from June 2021 (spring) to February 2022 (winter) using quadrat method. Results: Juvenile E. sinensis of carapace length (CL) 5.5 ± 2.1 mm (mean ± standard deviation) were collected; no juveniles were found in February 2022. Crab abundance in root belt and gravel habitats usually exceeded that of marsh habitat; no juveniles were found in mud flat habitat. The greatest abundances and smallest individuals were found when megalopa recruited in early spring (June); juvenile abundance decreased sharply afterwards, and crabs were absent from the intertidal during winter. Size and relative growth rate of juvenile crabs were greater in root belt and gravel habitat than in marsh habitat from June to August. Recruitment primarily drove changes in crab abundance and size during June and July, and temperature best correlated with changes in the winter. Many stage I juveniles (CL < 3.1 mm) occurred in the lower estuarine reaches, while stage III and IV juveniles (CL 3.9-6.5 mm) primarily occurred in the middle and upper estuarine reaches. Discussion: Although intertidal wetland habitat in Yangtze Estuary is severely degraded and reduced in area, it remains important for recruitment and maintenance of mitten crab populations. An understanding of the habitat requirements of this species will benefit management of this crab resource and the prioritized restoration of intertidal habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychopathic traits have been associated with rearrest in adolescents involved in the criminal legal system. Much of the prior work has focused on White samples, short follow-up windows, and relatively low-risk youth. The current study aimed to evaluate the utility of the Hare Psychopathy Checklist: Youth Version (PCL:YV) for predicting general and violent felony recidivism in a large sample of high-risk, predominantly Hispanic/Latino, male adolescents (n = 254) with a five-year follow-up period. Results indicated higher PCL:YV scores and lower full-scale estimated IQ scores were significantly associated with a shorter time to felony and violent felony rearrest. These effects generalized to Hispanic/Latino adolescents (n = 193)—a group that faces disproportionate risk of being detained or committed to juvenile correctional facilities in the U.S. These results suggest that expert-rated measures of psychopathic traits and IQ are reliable predictors of subsequent felony and violent felony rearrest among high-risk male adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the cadmium (Cd) levels and temporal variation of Cd in dark muscle, white muscle, and liver of juvenile Thunnus albacares. 72 individuals (Standard length: 50–67 cm; weight: 0.8–2.5 kg) were collected from Indian Oceanic water around Sri Lanka during the period between April 2021 to May 2022. Total Cd levels were analyzed using an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrophotometer. The mean Cd levels (mean ± SD mg kg−1 dry weight) in different tissues varied with significantly higher levels in the liver (13.62 ± 0.98, p < 0.05), compared to dark muscle (0.52 ± 0.05), and white muscle (0.42 ± 0.04). Cd levels in liver tissues were positively correlated (p < 0.05) with the fish weight. The Cd levels reported in dark muscles, white muscles, and liver tissues were significantly higher (p < 0.05) during 2nd inter-monsoon than in the other monsoonal regimes and exceeded the maximum permissible level (0.1 mg kg−1 wet weight) set by the European Union (EU). However, the measured Cd levels in white and dark muscles were below the maximum permissible level (0.2 mg kg−1 wet weight) set by FAO/WHO. The Cd levels in all the liver tissues were above the levels set by the EU and FAO/WHO. Accordingly, people should avoid the consumption of liver tissues of T. albacares from the Indian Ocean. A human with a body weight of 60 kg can consume white muscles up to 4.667 kg per week without exceeding the Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An understanding of vital rate contributions to population growth is necessary for species of conservation concern, such as greater sage‐grouse Centrocercus urophasianus. Sage‐grouse demographic rates are generally well described; however, a notable exception is juvenile survival during the post‐fledging period. We evaluated juvenile survival at two study areas in central and south–central Wyoming. We captured and monitored 124 juvenile sage‐grouse (77 females and 47 males) in 2017–2019 in the central Wyoming study area and 68 (29 females and 39 males) in 2020–2021 in the south–central Wyoming study area. Monthly survival generally increased from September to March in each year and study area. In both study areas, we found no evidence that monthly mortality risk differed between male and female juvenile sage‐grouse. In central Wyoming, seven‐month survival estimates from September to March were 0.28 (85% CI: 0.18–0.44) from 2017–2018, 0.28 (85% CI: 0.20–0.39) from 2018–2019, and 0.43 (85% CI: 0.34–0.55) from 2019–2020. In south‐central Wyoming, survival estimates were 0.34 (85% CI: 0.25–0.47) from 2020–2021 and 0.78 (85% CI: 0.68–0.90) from 2021–2022. Overall, we found evidence that body condition at time of capture and weather (temperature and precipitation) during the pre‐fledging period influenced juvenile mortality risk, but the most supported intrinsic and extrinsic factors varied between study areas. Our results provide additional estimates of juvenile survival that will be useful for understanding sage‐grouse demography. However, the spatial and temporal variation in juvenile survival that we documented should be accounted for when evaluating how management actions may influence sage‐grouse populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work is devoted to the study of the abundance, distribution and growth performance of five Mugilidae species in three types of coastal habitats (coastal sea, estuaries and lagoon) located in a limited geographical area in the south-western Mediterranean (eastern coast of Algeria). The four sites considered (Caroube Beach, Mellah Lagoon, Boukhmira and Mafragh Estuaries) are differentiated by their salinity, which evolves at different intervals. The five species enter the considered paralic environments at very small sizes (2–3 cm TL). Regardless of site, Liza saliens is the most abundant (46.92%), followed by Liza aurata (23.72%), Chelon labrosus (13.96%), Liza ramada (11.80%) and Mugil cephalus (3.50%). Each species has a different occupation profile for each site (date of recruitment, relative abundance and demographic structure). The same is true for daily growth, which is better at Mafragh for L. saliens (0.7 ± 0.13 mm/day), at Boukhmira and Mafragh for L. aurata (0.53 ± 0.08 and 0.48 ± 0.09 mm/day, respectively), at Caroube for L. ramada (0.58 ± 0.12 mm/day) and at Mellah for C. labrosus (0.59 ± 0.14 mm/day) and M. cephalus (0.68 ± 0.17 mm/day). The closeness of the daily growth values for the five species to data obtained by various multi-year ageing methods (scalimetry, otolithometry) shows the validity of using otolith microstructures to determine the age of juvenile 0+ Mugilidae. This study shows heterogeneity in the relative abundance, demographic structure and somatic development of the five species considered depending on their habitat and suggests the influence of certain abiotic parameters on some of them. The two most interesting species for aquaculture (Liza ramada and M. cephalus) are relatively the least abundant, but still have interesting potential for freshwater aquaculture, because of their euryhalinity and their interesting maximum length, as well as their relatively fast growth in freshwater. The results of this study are of an applied nature because they contribute to the development of extensive mugilid aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera (Linnaeus) C. Agardh 1820) is a habitatforming brown seaweed in temperate systems with an unexplored potential as a source of seaweed bioproducts. This study used M. pyrifera sporophytes sourced in Tasmania, Australia, to investigate the effect of photoperiod and temperature on growth rates and the nutritional characteristics of the resulting juvenile biomass. Four cultivation treatments combined growth temperatures of 12 °C, 15 °C, 18 °C with light:dark (L:D) of 12:12 and 16:8 (L:D) photoperiods, (12 °C – (12:12); 12 °C – (16:8); 15 °C – (12:12); 18 °C – (12:12) to investigate their effect on the number and size of sporophytes, biomass accumulation and nutritional composition. After 60 days of cultivation the 12 °C – (12:12) treatment had the greatest number of juvenile sporophytes, and the greatest biomass of 14 ± 1.3 g dry weight (DW). The lowest biomass of 1 g DW, was obtained from the 18 °C – (12:12) treatment. The protein content across all treatments ranged from 16- 22.48% DW, with the 12 °C (12:12) treatment having largest range, then the 12°C (16:18) treatment was next with 18.48-22.48% DW, and the 15°C (12:12) treatment had the lowest protein range with 16.48-18% DW. These results are in the range of protein content previously reported for brown seaweeds of 5- 20%. Total polysaccharide content ranged from 9.6-16.2% DW with the highest content of 16.2% DW obtained for the 15 °C – (12:12) treatment, and the lowest total polysaccharide content of 9.6% DW obtained for the 12 °C (16:18) treatment. After 66 days of cultivation, the highest yield of sulphated polysaccharides of 0.4% DW was obtained for the 12 °C (12:12) treatment. Total fatty acids were analysed, with the highest polyunsaturated fatty acid content of 60.4% detected in the 12 °C (12:12) treatment. This study demonstrates that temperature and photoperiod are factors impacting juvenile sporophyte growth, biomass accumulation and biochemical composition. The study showed the least stressed sporophytes produced the most potentially beneficial nutritional or bioactive profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large literature documents that there are significant academic and non-academic differences between the youngest and oldest students in a school cohort. This paper investigates if being the youngest in a cohort has any impact on an individual's propensity to commit crime by utilizing a data set that contains over 4 million arrest records spanning a 20-year period in California. While I find no persistent effect on the probability of arrest, the youngest students in a cohort have a higher risk of arrest for certain offenses at age 14, corresponding to the age when they would transition to high school. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of warming freshwater habitats, protection of Atlantic salmon populations requires an understanding of the effects of temperature on somatic growth during the juvenile life stage. However, quantifying the effect of temperature on growth is challenging given differences among methodologies, metrics of growth, and their underlying assumptions. Using short term studies (2000–2002) in two Canadian populations of wild Atlantic salmon (Margaree and Miramichi rivers), we investigate whether different hierarchical modeling approaches influence the derivation of temperature-growth relationships, by contrasting seasonal growth trajectories (von Bertalanffy; VBGF) to size-at-age data models built with instantaneous growth rates. Size-at-age data analysed seasonally with the VBGF framework failed to detect an effect of temperature, whereas instantaneous growth rates from the same dataset were strongly related to temperature metrics. However, instantaneous growth rates cannot be used to extrapolate predictions into meaningful metrics for fisheries management (e.g., size at the end of the growing season). Nevertheless, we show that size at the end of the growing season can be predicted with VBGF models accounting for site-level variation, which in turn are related to temperature metrics, as observed for instantaneous growth rates. Taken together, these results show that combining these two approaches (size-at-age, growth rates) can circumvent their intrinsic drawbacks and reveal essential ecological patterns that may otherwise remain undetected. In cases where instantaneous growth rates are not available, relating predicted size-at-age from hierarchical VBGF to temperature provides an interesting alternative for detecting subtle environmental effects, even if the VBGF parameters or its residuals are unrelated to temperature metrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Senegalese sole, Solea senegalensis, is a flatfish of high commercial value in the world. It has been identified as an interesting and promising species for marine commercial aquaculture diversification in Europe for at least four decades and was introduced to China in 2003. Early ontogenesis from embryo to juvenile stages in S. senegalensis was analysed under controlled laboratory conditions to provide morphological information for aquaculture. From 0 to 59 days post hatching (dph), 10–20 larvae were sampled and measured each day (0–17 dph) or every 2–6 days (17–59 dph). Morphological characteristics from the egg to the juvenile stage were described. The eggs were separate and spherical with multiple oil globules. After 3 dph, the yolk sac was completely absorbed, mouth and anus were open, a swim bladder appeared, and larvae began feeding on rotifers (Brachionus plicatilis). The larvae began metamorphosis as the notochord flexed upward and the left eye migrated upward after 10 dph. The left eye migrated to the dorsal midline at 15 dph. At 19 dph, the left eye was translocated to the right‐ocular side, and the juveniles adopted a benthic lifestyle. The swim bladder degenerated, and the juveniles completed metamorphosis at 23 dph. The growth patterns of some parameters (TL, SL, BH, BW) during larval and juvenile development stages were identified. The inflection points, which are slopes of growth changes, were calculated in growth curves. Three inflection points occurring in the growth curves of larvae and juveniles were found to be associated with metamorphosis, weaning, and transitions in feeding habits. The basic information of embryo development and ontogenesis in this study represents a valuable contribution to the S. senegalensis industry, especially in artificial breeding and rearing techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood arthritis has a prevalence of around 300 000 US children. It has no cure, and is just one of many juvenile conditions associated with pain, fatigue, and a lifetime of medical care. Yoga has demonstrated effectiveness in improving symptoms and quality of life for adults with arthritis. Yoga can be easily adapted according to affected joints, movement limitations, and changes in disease status. It combines movement that is necessary for arthritis management and maintaining physical function, along with mental practices that help to address common psychosocial comorbidities such as depressive symptoms and affect. No research has been published on the effects of yoga in minors with arthritis and chronic pain. In-person yoga may not be feasible for this population because many patients live hours from their specialist healthcare. As telehealth becomes more acceptable, online yoga may offer an additional tool for symptom management and improved quality of life in juvenile chronic pain conditions. Clinical trials are necessary to evaluate the safety, feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness of teleyoga in the whole-person management of juvenile arthritis and chronic pain conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methods: Therefore, in this study, we assessed the changes in growth, morphology, digestive enzymes, and hormone levels in T. modestus from 0--60 days post-hatching (dph) and revealed growth turning points by morphological measurement and determination of digestive enzyme activities and hormone levels. We found that ontogenesis could be divided into the larval (0--20 dph) and juvenile (20--60 dph) stages. Acid and alkaline protease activity significantly increased and decreased, respectively, from 12-- 25 dph, likely due to the development of stomach and gastric glands. Acid phosphatase levels significantly increased at 0 and 4 dph, whichmay be related to the regulation of metabolism and immune protection. A sharp increase in alkaline phosphatase levels at 20 and 25 dph was observed and was likely due to the development of the brush border membrane of enterocytes. The amylase level was significantly higher at 25, 30, and 35 dph, possibly due to better digestion and absorption during the transition from consuming Artemia to compound feed. In newly hatched larvae, the level of thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) gradually increased and peaked at 35 dph, highlighting the importance of these hormones during the development of T. modestus. Growth hormone (GH) levels first increased from 0--8 dph, with a plateau at 8--20 dph, and then increased at 25--30--35 dph. For insulinlike growth factor 1 (IGF-1), a significant increase with a subsequent plateau was observed between 8 and 20 dph, followed by a substantial decrease between 30 and 35 dph. These results suggest that the regulating functions of GH and IGF-1 are synchronised. Digestive enzyme activity and hormone levels of abnormal fry at 30 dph were lower than those of normal fish, highlighting the importance of specific hormones, especially T4 and IGF-1, in the development of T. modestus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Very little literature currently exists prescribing which maceration method to use when preparing infant human remains, resulting in bone quality that is suitable for forensic anthropological analysis. The aim of the study was to test five maceration methods to determine which is most suitable for infant remains for forensic anthropological analysis. The sample included five neonate pig carcasses (Sus scrofa domesticus), ranging between one to three days old. Five maceration methods were tested on the pig carcasses (one pig per maceration method) to determine their effectiveness. The methods included invertebrate maceration by meal worms, chemical maceration by bleach, chemical maceration by borax solution, enzymatic maceration by laundry detergent and sodium carbonate solution, and chemical maceration by sodium hypochlorite. A scoring method was created to assess the effectiveness of each maceration method. Invertebrate maceration and chemical maceration using bleach were the least successful methods of maceration (total maceration score = 8 respectively). Chemical maceration using borax and chemical maceration using sodium hypochlorite achieved complete maceration of the skeletal remains; however, they both resulted in artifacts that are unsuitable for forensic analysis (total maceration score = 14 respectively). Enzymatic maceration using laundry detergent and sodium carbonate was the most successful method (total maceration score = 17). The detergent technique subsequently successfully macerated all five sets of infant human remains. This study has validated that the enzymatic maceration technique using laundry detergent and sodium carbonate can be used to effectively macerate the remains of infant skeletal remains for forensic anthropological analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to analyse the impact of educational mediation at the "La Cañada" centre on the variables of social skills, emotional development and aggressiveness in juvenile inmates from the point of view of the educational staff in charge of carrying out the mediation. The sample consisted of 46 subjects (male=24 and female=22). The study was qualitative in nature. The results showed that I) with regard to social skills, they consider that the centre has an impact on the children. However, there are other features of social skills, such as the more time the child spends in the institution, the more they deteriorate; II) In reference to positive emotional development, a positive incidence is observed as the time spent in the institution increases; III) Regarding the reduction of aggressive behaviour, the educational staff observes an improvement trend in the children; IV) The children's centre should include essential elements in the intervention programme such as the family context and, in addition, pay more attention to those aggressive profiles. These findings are of special interest for the educational and legal context, as an adequate reintegration of these minors into society will facilitate a more optimal development of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is devoted to the study of the specifics of criminal proceedings involving minors, in the context of the norms of national legislation and certain scientific works. It has been determined that the special procedural position of children in criminal proceedings is determined by the age peculiarities of these субʼєктів. The actual international standards concerning the procedure of criminal procedural activity in proceedings involving minors are considered. It is noted that at the national level, the specificity of proceedings in cases of minors is represented primarily in the isolation of the legislative regulation of criminal procedural relations with the participation of these individuals, as evidenced by the provisions of Chapter 38 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine «Criminal proceedings against minors.». During the study, the opinions of domestic scientists on the most problematic issues related to the procedural features of criminal proceedings against persons who have not reached the age of majority were analyzed. As a result of a comprehensive analysis of the legal norms of criminal procedural legislation, it was proved that certain procedures and rules of criminal proceedings are adapted specifically to the needs of minors, although their basis are general legal norms. In particular, this fact is evidenced by the dualistic representation of the interests of the juvenile suspect and the accused, the special субʼєктний composition of the participants in criminal proceedings against minors and certain specific aspects both at the stage of pre-trial investigation of juvenile crimes and during subsequent court proceedings. The article also identified a number of problematic aspects related to the implementation of these provisions at the practical level, in the context of which it is proposed to introduce certain additions and changes to the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine. It is considered necessary to consolidate the special principles of criminal proceedings against minors at the legislative level in the form of a separate article. The conclusion focuses on the fact that despite the existence of certain shortcomings in the legal regulation of proceedings in cases of minors, the criminal procedure legislation of Ukraine is developing in the right direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug abuse by children is a deviation of behavior or unlawful acts. In the Child Protection Law and the Juvenile Criminal Justice System Law, legal protection must be provided to children who are in conflict with the law. The purpose of this study is to analyze how the implementation of criminal sanctions against perpetrators of drug abuse in children. This research uses the theory of liberalism on the basis of freedom and human rights (HAM). As a vulnerable party in the criminal justice process, even though undergoing the judicial process, children must still receive protection. Based on the interview between the author and the investigator, it can be concluded that all legal processes of convicted drug convicts in children have been running with applicable legal provisions, it's just that there is one thing that should be an important point that is needed during the legal process. Then if a minor violates the law, the thing that must be done is to give sanctions so that the child can realize that the actions he has done are wrong and can cause violations of the law. The involvement of minors in narcotics is punishable with a crime based on the Narcotics Law "No. 35 of 2009", in which case minors are entitled to legal protection under the Criminal Code and Law "No. 11 of 2012". Where a child will get a dry punishment that is returned to his parents or six months of job training at the Lampung Provincial Social Service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resocialization is an important process for a juvenile, and it can be achieved through various means, one of which is religion. This article solely focuses on the resocialization of juveniles through the implementation of a religious approach. A case study design was used involving two rehabilitation schools housing male and female juveniles who have broken the law and whose ages range from 10 to 18. Two schools, each housing a different gender, were chosen to provide a more detailed understanding of the resocialization process. A total of 10 teachers and 15 juveniles were selected as respondents through the purposive sampling technique. This technique allows the selection of appropriate individuals based on the scope of the study. Data was gathered through in-depth interviews with all respondents. To support the interview data, observations at the research sites were also carried out. The findings revealed that the implementation of Islamic education and programs helps the resocialization process of juveniles in rehabilitation schools. On this basis, more attention should be paid to improving the quality of Islamic education and programs so that juvenile resocialization efforts continue to yield positive results. The resocialization process takes a long time, but it is worthwhile for it to continue to be implemented in an effort to change delinquent behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Wildlife / Yesheng Dongwu Xuebao is the property of Chinese Journal of Wildlife Editorial Office 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.)

Coccidiosis is an important disease in juvenile fish because of severe intestinal injury during infection. We first reported the mixed infection of intestinal coccidia and its association with health status and pathological findings in juvenile Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) cultured in Thailand. Two groups of Asian seabass, 60‐day fish and 90‐day fish, were sampled to investigate prevalence and coccidian infection intensity using morphological characterization and PCR. Phylogenetic analysis of 18S rRNA gene amplified from the intestines revealed Eimeria sp. and Cryptosporidium sp. infection. The prevalence of Eimeria sp. and Cryptosporidium sp. in sampled fish was 100%. Clinical outcomes assessed, using health assessment index (HAI) scoring and semi‐quantitative grading of intestinal lesions and inflammation, demonstrated that all fish developed variety of pathology and clinical illness; however, infection intensity in 60‐day fish was significantly higher (p <.05) than 90‐day fish. The HAI score of 60‐day fish was poorer than 90‐day fish, which correlated to a high infection intensity (r =.397), analysed by Pearson correlation coefficient. Overproduction of intestinal oxidants contributing to mucosal injury was examined by nitrotyrosine expression. The high production of reactive nitrogen species indicated severe inflammatory response, and intestinal injuries occurred mainly in the 60‐day fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For anadromous fish entering the marine environment, we expect the probability of avoiding predation and starvation to increase with the quality and/or quantity of dietary resources consumed during the period immediately prior to, and following, ocean entry. Here, we report the results of research examining trophic history in relation to fork length, mass, and body condition in juvenile Chinook salmon captured in the southern Bering Sea using δ13C and δ15N analysis of skeletal muscle and liver samples. Our results show little inter-individual variability in δ15N, but variability in δ13C among tissues and within and among years was observed. Further, we found few relationships between δ15N and morphological or condition metrics, but strong relationships between δ13C and fork length, body mass, and Fulton’s K. We attribute the similarity in δ15N among individuals to high trophic level feeding (i.e., piscivory) associated with the prolonged duration of freshwater residency observed for juvenile Chinook salmon in our study area. Variation in δ13C, as well as relationships between δ13C, fork length, body mass, and Fulton’s K can be attributed to variability in carbon sourcing resulting from the large spatial footprint of our study area. In addition to relating these findings to Chinook salmon ecology, we offer guidance for future use of δ13C and δ15N analysis in studying early marine trophic interactions in anadromous fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although research has been conducted on the risks and effects of juvenile sexual assault, there is a gap in our knowledge surrounding juvenile sexual assault and how the law discusses victims. The goal of this endeavor is to provide a systematic summary of juvenile sexual assault statutes in the United States of America. In pursuit of this objective, a content analysis of the sexual assault and consent state laws of the United States of America was performed. Four themes emerged, including laws that sought to (1) conceptualize juvenile sexual assault victimization, (2) offer evidentiary standards in juvenile sexual assault cases, (3) assess the seriousness and punishment of juvenile sexual assault, and (4) provide services for juveniles who have been sexually victimized. Within these themes, legislation was inconsistent from one state to another. From these findings, however, we encourage legislative bodies to offer greater specificity in their laws, re-assess the seriousness of this phenomenon, and express greater support for victims of child sexual assault. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The "C group" of the histiocytic disorders is characterized by non-Langerhans-cell histiocytic lesions in the skin, mucosal surfaces, or both, out of which Juvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG) is the most common typically affecting the skin. The eye is the most common extra-cutaneous site of JXG., we aim at providing our clinical and histopathological experience with this group of diseases including the adult-onset xanthogranuloma (AXG). Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of all patients with the tissue diagnosis of ocular and periocular cutaneous and mucocutaneous non-LCH disorders who presented to us over a period of 25 years (January 1993 to December 2018). Results: Twenty patients were diagnosed as "Group C" disease with an age range of 2 months-60.9 years. Eleven patients were females (55%) and nine were males (45%). The involvement was mostly unilateral in 80.9%. All cases fell into the xanthogranuloma family with 11 JXG patients, 8 AXG patients of skin and ocular surface, and one patient with solitary reticulohistiocytoma (SRH). The clinical site of involvement in JXG was primarily in the eyelid in 5 patients (45%), ocular surface lesions in 2 (18%), iris in 2 (18%), choroidal and bilateral orbital lesions in 1 patient each (9%). The group of AXG, presented equally with eyelid lesions in 4/8 and ocular surface lesions in 4/8. The non-Langerhans' histiocytic infiltrate showed supportive immunohistochemical staining properties (reactive to CD68 marker and negative to S-100 and langerin markers). Conclusion: Among the rare histiocytic disorders, xanthogranulomatosis is the commonest and has wide clinical manifestations. Accurate diagnosis needs to be supported by typical histopathological findings. JXG was the commonest in our study with relatively older mean age at presentation and frequent eyelid rather than iris involvement. AXG is often confused with xanthelasma when involving the eyelids with corneal limbal involvement is relatively frequent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Youth who have histories of trauma exposure face unique barriers and needs in navigating the juvenile justice system. Accordingly, reliance on recidivism as the primary "success" metric falls short for trauma-impacted youth and may actually prolong their justice involvement. Caregivers and juvenile justice professionals (i.e., judges, attorneys, detention and probation staff, case managers, and mental health clinicians) often struggle to identify and adequately address these challenges and pitfalls. This policy brief provides an overview of specialized considerations for traumatized youth with respect to common policies and practices, namely mandated placement, treatment, and timelines. Specific examples and actionable recommendations are provided to assist juvenile justice professionals and treatment providers with systemic efforts to more appropriately and effectively customize juvenile justice policies and programs for these extremely vulnerable youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the use of reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) as a diagnostic tool for vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) and vulvar vitiligo (VV) in juvenile Chinese girls. VLS and VV have similar clinical appearances, but RCM can reveal distinct features that aid in diagnosis. The study examined 28 patients, with 17 having VLS and 11 having VV. The results showed that VLS is characterized by structural disorder, fibrous material deposits, and larger cellular structures, while VV is characterized by weakened dermal papillary rings. The authors suggest that RCM can be used to support clinical diagnosis of VLS and VV. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: Test how virtual, vicarious exposure to a procedurally just versus unjust police traffic stop impacts youths' perceptions of police legitimacy and willingness to cooperate. Methods: Adolescents (N = 822) were randomly assigned to watch a video featuring a procedurally just interaction, a procedurally unjust interaction, or no video. Analyses examined the effects of video exposure on youths' views of police. Results: Virtual exposure did not impact youths' views of police legitimacy. However, youth were more willing to cooperate with the just versus the unjust officer. Interestingly, exposure to the just officer reduced youths' willingness to cooperate with the police in their community as compared to the control group. Conclusions: A single virtual police exposure may not critically shape youths' overall perceptions of police legitimacy, but it may impact their willingness to cooperate. Youth may differentiate their evaluations of specific officers from their views of police more broadly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Restocking by introducing hatchery-reared fish into wild habitats aids in the restoration of fishery aquatic ecosystems and reefs to increase the abundance of fish resources, restore the ecological balance of water bodies, and enhance ecosystem functioning. Accurately, rapidly, and effectively evaluating the success of restocking using chemical markers (e.g., strontium [Sr]) remains challenging for fisheries management. Consequently, for non-lethal fish sampling, hard tissues, such as fin rays, have received increasing attention as a target for marking method. However, data on the differences in marking different types of fin rays remain limited. Therefore, we exposed juvenile blunt snout bream individuals (Megalobrama amblycephala) to 0 (control group) or 800 mg/L of SrCl2·6H2O (marked group) for 5 days and transferred them into normal aerated water for post-immersion culture. We sampled their pectoral, dorsal, ventral, anal, and caudal fin rays. The Sr marks among the fin types were sampled at 0 and 20 days post-immersion and evaluated using an electron probe micro-analyzer (EPMA) for the five-day Sr/Ca ratios, along with line transect and Sr mapping analyses. Results: Sr marking signatures were observed in all fin types in the marked group, with a success rate of up to 100%. Although marking efficiency varied among the different fin ray types, the highest Sr/Ca ratios were most often detected in the dorsal fin. Cross-sectional Sr concentration maps of all fin rays sampled showed high-Sr domains in the marked group; in contrast, the entire cross-sections of the control group displayed low Sr contents, indicating successful marking efficiency. Conclusions: Fin ray Sr marking is a successful method for juvenile M. amblycephala, with the advantages of non-lethality and negligible sampling injuries, facilitating the rapid and effective evaluation of Sr marking in restocking M. amblycephala. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Our goal was to use three dimensional (3D) strain analysis to evaluate myocardial function and ascending aorta elasticity changes in juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM). Methods: Between 2019 and 2021, 23 JDM patients and 20 healthy volunteers participated. Both groups underwent 2D and 3D strain analysis, assessing aortic stiffness using aortic distensibility, stiffness index, strain, and elastic modulus. Results: JDM patients had a median age of 13.3 ± 5.2 years, while controls had a median age of 13.8 ± 4.76 years. 3D strain analysis revealed significantly lower global longitudinal (GLS) and circumferential strain (GCS) in JDM patients compared to controls. Specifically, 3D GLS was notably reduced in patients (−28.1% vs. −31%, p =.047) compared to controls, and 3D GCS was also lower in patients (−27.5% vs. −30.5%, p =.019) compared to controls. Aortic strain and elastic modulus were significantly lower in JDM patients, while aortic stiffness index and distensibility showed no significant differences. Correlation analyses within the JDM group revealed a negative correlation between 3D GLS and age at diagnosis (r = −.561, p =.04), as well as a positive correlation between 3D GLS and both aortic strain (r =.514, p =.0001) and elastic modulus (r =.320, p =.03) in JDM patients. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated a trend towards lower ejection fraction and strain in patients with JDM, along with increased aortic stiffness using 3D echocardiography. These findings suggest potential cardiovascular involvement in juvenile dermatomyositis, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive cardiac assessments in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study employed inductive-thematic analysis to identify dynamic cognitive-emotional processes occurring in proximity to deliberate firesetting among a sample of N = 35 adjudicated juvenile firesetters. Six fire-specific themes were determined. Three of these themes are akin to an implicit theory (i.e. a belief system informed by previous experiences): Fire Interest, Fire is Controllable, and Fire Denial/Accidental. Three of these themes are consistent with a cognitive script (i.e. a behavioural guide for how and when to use fire): (a) fire is destructive; (b) fire conceals evidence; and (c) fire creates calm. When reviewed more closely, the theme 'fire is destructive' is composed of two separate subcategories: 'fire creates destructive fun' and 'fire is a destructive tool for revenge'. The findings have risk assessment and treatment implications for juvenile firesetters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The artificial propagation of the endangered Solenaia oleivora, with unknown fish hosts, was performed via in vitro culture with bighead carp, grass carp, common carp, bovine, and rabbit sera. The effects of glochidium density on transformation rates were evaluated, and the development of juveniles that metamorphosed successfully was documented. The control group had a transformation rate of 0 and a contamination rate of 0. No significant differences were found in the transformation and contamination rates of the bighead carp, grass carp, and common carp serum groups, and their transformation rates were significantly higher, and contamination rates were significantly lower than those of the bovine and rabbit serum groups. Moreover, no significant differences were observed in the transformation rates of glochidia (culture density, 2000–5000 glochidia/dish) in contamination-free conditions. Specimen shell length/height increased from 1.08 ± 0.01 on the first day to 3.08 ± 0.29 during the 13th week. On the basis of anterior and posterior growth differences, juvenile growth was divided into the following three phases: the rapid anterior growth period, distinct anterior and posterior idiophase, and rapid posterior growth period. This study not only provides technological support for the artificial propagation of S. oleivora but also lays a foundation for resource recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No reference intervals for serum biochemistry and haematology of sea turtles in Thailand exists to assist veterinarians who are responsible for sea turtle health management and treatment. This study determined serum biochemistry and basic haematology of healthy juvenile green sea turtles (n = 92) in captivity in Thailand following the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology (ASVCP), Quality Assurance and Laboratory Standards Committee (QALS) guidelines for the determination of reference intervals in veterinary species. Biochemistry tests, including blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, uric acid, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase were analysed using an IDEXX VetTest Chemistry Analyzer. Haematology parameters were measured manually using a microhaematocrit for packed cell volume (PCV), Neubauer counting chamber for red blood cell count and cyanmethemoglobin method for haemoglobin concentration. mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration were calculated using the PCV, red blood cell count and haemoglobin. Turtles in this study were found to have higher mean values for PCV (28.70%), haemoglobin (92.13 g/L), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (327.03 g/L), uric acid (247.15 μmol/L), alanine aminotransferase (16.53 IU/L), aspartate aminotransferase (209.44 IU/L), and alkaline phosphatase (245.08 IU/L) compared to sea turtles in Brazil. The reference intervals established using high numbers of healthy turtles in this study will assist veterinarians with diagnostic and treatment decisions when evaluating laboratory results for juvenile green sea turtles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic pollutant that endangers several marine animals, including green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), particularly in their foraging grounds along Brazilian coastal waters. Environmental Hg levels differ along this extensive littoral, rendering mandatory Hg long-term assessments of the different Hg fate in different sectors of the Brazilian coast. This study quantifies total Hg concentrations in the liver and muscle of green sea turtle populations from three foraging coastal regions in northeastern Brazil and analyzes Hg concentration differences given the locality and size of 61 juvenile individuals sampled. The results showed wide variations in Hg concentrations in the liver (81–3135 ng g−1) and muscle (10.1–8569 ng g−1). There was no significant correlation between animal size and Hg concentrations. Also, no difference was found among areas, reflecting the opportunistic feeding habit of juveniles of this species. This suggests that, in the case of green turtles, the ontogenetic change of diet plays an important role in influencing Hg concentrations found in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Juvenile idiopathic recurrent parotitis (JIRP) in children is a condition characterized with recurrent episodes of idiopathic parotid gland inflammation. Since there are no definitive guidelines for diagnosis and management of this condition, we present a consecutive case series of patients with more than one decade follow up and their dramatic response to short course treatment by prednisolone. Methods: We conducted this study by retrospectively reviewed medical charts of children who were diagnosed with JIRP, from 1 January 2002 to 29 February 2023. We performed usual serological tests to exclude some possible background. We administered short course prednisolone on first day of episode as divided dosage (0.5 mg /kg). Results: In this case series of 10 patients (70%) were male, median age of onset was 5 years, duration of episodes 5 days, and the mean course of disease were 3.8 years. The average follows up of patients was near 10 years. In comparison with their natural course of disease all patients showed a dramatic response to treatment on the first day of administration of prednisolone (P Value 0.005). For ten years follow up there was not any additional accompanying autoimmune disorder. Conclusion: Short course prednisolone on first day of each episode and its dramatic and meaningful response in our patients, introduce a new, effective, fast, and inexpensive regimen of therapy in patients with JIRP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a prevalent childhood chronic arthritis, often persisting into adulthood. Effective transitional care becomes crucial as these patients transition from pediatric to adult healthcare systems. Despite the concept of transitional care being recognized, its real-world implementation remains inadequately explored. This study aims to evaluate the thoughts and practices of healthcare providers regarding transitional care for JIA patients. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among pediatric and adult rheumatologists in Turkey. Based on the American Academy of Pediatrics' six core elements of transitional care, the survey included 86 questions. The respondents' demographic data, attitudes towards transitional care, and practical implementation were assessed. Results: The survey included 48 rheumatologists, with 43.7% having a transition clinic. The main barriers to establishing transition programs were the absence of adult rheumatologists, lack of time, and financial constraints. Only 23.8% had a multidisciplinary team for transition care. Participants agreed on the importance of coordination and cooperation between pediatric and adult healthcare services. The timing of the transition process varied, with no consensus on when to initiate or complete it. Participants advocated for validated questionnaires adapted to local conditions to assess transition readiness. Conclusions: The study sheds light on the challenges and perspectives surrounding transitional care for JIA patients in Turkey. Despite recognized needs and intentions, practical implementation remains limited due to various barriers. Cultural factors and resource constraints affect the transition process. While acknowledging the existing shortcomings, the research serves as a ground for further efforts to improve transitional care and ensure better outcomes for JIA patients transitioning into adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Kultura i Wychowanie is the property of Akademii Humanistyczno-Ekonomicznej 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: In the Agriculture industry, tortoises may not have a great commercial value compared with chicken and hoofed mammals; nevertheless, they have a substantial economic value for food, medicine, and ecological services. The empirical work was conducted at the Departmental Research Center (DRC), to investigate the impact of growth phases on body weight (BW) and morphometrics of different age groups. Design/ Methodology/ Approach: Eighty freshwater tortoises of 4 age groups (20 hatchlings, 20 juveniles, 20 sub-adults and 20 adults) were obtained from the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife in Nigeria. A deep litter housing system was used for the present study. Tortoises were fed with cooked meat, concentrate, fermented cassava, and palm fruits. Findings: The mean BW ranged from 41.00g - 848.00g. The result revealed that the mean BW of the tortoise value (503g). The Coefficient of Variance (CV) of morphometrics ranged from 9.73% - 15.63%. The straight carapace length (SCL) had a higher CV value (15.63%), followed by plastron length (PL) (12.90%) and least value (9.73%) for carapace width (CW). There was a huge difference in all the morphometrics except SCL and CW for sub-adult and adult tortoises. The result revealed that SCL, CW, PL and plastron width (PW) differed distinctly from BW. The correlation coefficient of BW and morphometric of juvenile growth phase (JGP) and sub-adult phase (SAGP) ranged from (0.326 - 0.964) and (0.275 - 0.953) respectively. Research Limitation/Implications: This research focused on Nigeria's availability and sustainability of freshwater tortoises. Practical Implication: This paper has potential implications for understanding the management and improvement of the freshwater tortoise in Nigeria. Social Implication: This study will enhance the availability and development of freshwater tortoise for policy-makers in addressing sustainable food security through social, economic and environmental stability for the present and future generations. Originality/Value: This study is based on the data collected on body weight and morphometric traits during growth phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Larvae and juveniles of three species in the family Gobiidae are described based on laboratory-reared material: Bathygobius fuscus to post-settlement, Bathygobius cyclopterus to 2 days old, and Bathygobius petrophilus to just after hatching. Newly hatched larvae of these species are distinguishable from each other by the melanophore arrangements on the dorsal region of the trunk, ventrally near the tip of the tail, and along the lateral midline. The early development of Bathygobius fuscus was similar to that described previously for Bathygobius soporator but differed in the appearance of melanophores and the shape of the second dorsal fin and anal fin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NPSLE diagnosis is still challenging because of many SLE-related and non-SLE-related processes that can be presented in patient. The report of NPSLE in Indonesia is still limited. This study aim to describe the clinical features, nutrition status, and laboratory characteristics of Neuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (NPSLE) and compared to non NPSLE case in Indonesian children. The study is a retrospective cohort study. Data were collected from the complete medical record of Juvenile Systemic lupus Erythematosus (jSLE) patients 2016 - 2020 at the Allergy Immunology Outpatient clinic at Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital. We include all patients with ages ranging from age 0-18 years old with a diagnosis of Systemic lupus Erythematosus (SLE). The diagnosis fo SLE based on American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria 1997 and Neuropsychiatric (NP) manifestations were classified using the standardized nomenclature and case definitions for the 19 NP manifestations linked to SLE developed in 1999 by the ACR ad hoc Committee. Disease activity SLE was defined according to the American Mexican-Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (Mex-SLEDAI) criteria. Statistical analysis conducted in this study was descriptive analysis, paired T-test (NPSLE vs. non-NPSLE as the dependent variable), Fischer exact test, and Pearson Chi-square test using SPSS ver. 21. A total of 90 patients with juvenile SLE were enrolled, but only 71 patients were eligible as participants with complete medical records obtained. Mex-SLEDAI score was significantly higher on NPSLE compared to non-NPSLE (p=0.001). There are no significant differences of body height, body weight, and body mass index between each group (p>0.05). The incidence of NPSLE was 29.57%, with clinical main symptoms were delirium (33.33%), seizures (33.33%), and psychosis (14.29%). 33.33% MRI/CT-scan findings noted brain abnormalities with the most prevalent were ischemic (14.29%), hypodense lesion, brain atrophy, multiple lymphadenopathy, and transverse myelitis (4.76%). The higher disease activity in NP SLE indicates the needs to close observation, the higher patient adherence to medication, and more comprehensive management to achieve therapeutic success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunoglobulins (Igs), also termed antibodies, orchestrate host-acquired immune responses against foreign antigens, including invasive pathogens. In fish, IgM, which is present predominantly circulating in the blood, is particularly important for humoral systemic immunity and protecting the host from pathogens. The efficacy of inactivated vaccines, a major type of vaccine commonly used worldwide in fish, is directly linked to the serum antibody level; however, the timing of the appearance of systemic IgM circulating in the blood has not been determined in fish. In the present study, we examined the dynamics of serum IgM levels in juvenile Japanese amberjack Seriola quinqueradiata, using a highly sensitive sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) that we developed for IgM. We found that serum IgM concentration in young fish up to 72 days post-hatching (d.p.h.) (mean ± standard error of the mean [SEM]; body weight: 5.73 ± 0.38 g, standard length [S.L.]: 72.2 ± 1.94 mm) was sustained at a low level, but that the level significantly increased from 79 d.p.h. onward, reaching a mean of 84.76 ± 9.23 μg/mL at 85 d.p.h. (body weight: 14.05 ± 0.92 g, S.L.: 101.1 ± 2.07 mm). These results suggest that systemic immunity mediated by IgM is only partially matured in the early growth stage of juveniles. The present findings could help establish effective vaccination programs for infectious diseases in young fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Jilin University (Medicine Edition) is the property of Jilin University Press 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.)

Copyright of Ozel Egitim Dergisi is the property of Ankara University, Faculty of Educational 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.)

D-PLEX100 (D-PLEX) is a novel product candidate made of a polymer-lipid-based matrix (PLEX platform) which contains doxycycline that is being released at a constant rate for 30 days. D-PLEX was developed to prevent surgical site infections, which are a major global health challenge. Previous studies have shown its safety in adult humans, adult swine, and adult rabbits. The aim of this study was to assess the toxicity and safety of D-PLEX also in juvenile animals to support future clinical trials in pediatric patients. Yucatan miniature swine were selected as a model, primarily due to their relatively larger mass. D-PLEX or placebo (formulation without doxycycline) was administered locally to abdominal incisions, and the animal's safety parameters were followed for 9 months and compared to sham-control swine. There was no evidence of any systemic safety concern or local toxicity at the incision site in D-PLEX-treated animals. D-PLEX was detected after 1 month and was fully resorbed at the 3-month time point. The surgical incision sites were fully healed at the 6-month time point in all D-PLEX-treated animals. Toxicokinetic (TK) assessments revealed that doxycycline exhibited low Cmax and therefore minimal systemic exposure following a single dose of local administration. This study provides evidence for the safety of D-PLEX and PLEX-based formulation in juvenile miniature swine and supports its further testing in clinical pediatric population. In addition, it can be used as a reference for future preclinical studies aiming to evaluate the safety of other PLEX-based product candidates for the pediatric population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]