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Hypercholesterolemia raises the risk for cardiovascular complications and overall health. Hypercholesterolemia is common, affecting 10% of the general population of the US, and heritable. Most individuals with hypercholesterolemia have a polygenic predisposition to the condition. Previously we identified a quantitative trait locus, Tachol1, linked to hypercholesterolemia on mouse chromosome 1 (Chr1) in a cross between C57BL/6J (B6) and TALLYHO/JngJ (TH) mice, a polygenic model for human obesity, type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia. Subsequently, using congenic mice that carry a TH-derived genomic segment of Chr1 on a B6 background, we demonstrated that the distal segment of Chr1, where Tachol1 maps, is necessary to cause hypercholesterolemia, as well as diet-induced obesity. In this study, we generated overlapping subcongenic lines to the distal segment of congenic region and characterized subcongenic mice carrying the smallest TH region of Tachol1, ~ 16.2 Mb in size (B6.TH-Chr1-16.2 Mb). Both male and female B6.TH-Chr1-16.2 Mb mice showed a significantly increased plasma total cholesterol levels compared to B6 on both chow and high fat (HF) diet. B6.TH-Chr1-16.2 Mb mice also had greater fat mass than B6 on HF diet, without increasing food intake. The gene and protein expression levels of absent in melanoma 2 (Aim2) gene were significantly upregulated in B6.TH-Chr1-16.2 Mb mice compared to B6. In summary, we confirmed the effect of Tachol1 on hypercholesterolemia and diet-induced obesity using subcongenic analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fiber batteries are essential for the realization of high‐performance wearable and textile electronics with the desirable features of conventional textiles, including breathability, stretchability, and washability. However, the development of fiber batteries is limited by scalability and performance since most reported fabrication techniques are not compatible with standard battery manufacturing. This work presents a novel method for the scalable fabrication of fiber batteries with a stacked design analogous to that of conventional pouch cells using layer lamination and laser machining. To accomplish this, several poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF‐HFP) separators are developed, enabling lamination between conventional battery electrodes using a heated rolling press. The laminated strips are subsequently laser cut to form fibers with widths as narrow as 650–700 µm. These prototypes are successfully cycled in pouch cells and capillary tubes, delivering very high linear energies up to 0.61 mWh cm−1. Custom equipment is designed to demonstrate scalable fiber battery fabrication processing in a roll‐to‐roll fashion. This work marks a paradigm shift in fiber battery research by demonstrating substantial benefits over all previous approaches including optimal active material utilization, low inactive material content, scalability, and compatibility with equipment already used widely in the battery industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the need for environmentally friendly commodity chemicals, feedstocks for biological chemical production must be diversified. Lignocellulosic biomass are an carbon source with the potential for effective use in a large scale and cost-effective production systems. Although the use of lignocellulosic biomass lysates for heterotrophic chemical production has been advancing, there are challenges to overcome. Here we aim to investigate the obligate photoautotroph cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942 as a chassis organism for lignocellulosic chemical production. When modified to import monosaccharides, this cyanobacterium is an excellent candidate for lysates-based chemical production as it grows well at high lysate concentrations and can fix CO2 to enhance carbon efficiency. This study is an important step forward in enabling the simultaneous use of two sugars as well as lignocellulosic lysate. Incremental genetic modifications enable catabolism of both sugars concurrently without experiencing carbon catabolite repression. Production of 2,3-butanediol is demonstrated to characterize chemical production from the sugars in lignocellulosic hydrolysates. The engineered strain achieves a titer of 13.5 g L−1 of 2,3-butanediol over 12 days under shake-flask conditions. This study can be used as a foundation for industrial scale production of commodity chemicals from a combination of sunlight, CO2, and lignocellulosic sugars. Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942 was modified to import and use monosaccharides, which allows it to grow on lignocellulosic lysate and produce 2,3-butanediol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Radiation Dosimetry Group has carried out several different types of intercomparison (IC) exercises in the past that qualify as proficiency tests for different dosimetry systems and types of radiation. The first neutron dosemeter IC was held in 2012 (IC2012n) and was followed by a second in 2017/2018 (IC2017n). In sum, 31 Individual Monitoring Services (IMSs) entered 34 dosimetry systems in IC2012n, and 32 IMSs entered 33 dosimetry systems for IC2017n. Such exercises provided a rare opportunity to see how neutron dosemeters perform. For the IC2012n exercise, there were no applicable performance standards for neutron personal dosemeters. ISO/TC85/SC2 updated the ISO Standard 14146 in 2018 (ISO 14146:2018. Radiation protection—Criteria and performance limits for the periodic evaluation of dosimetry services) to include neutron dosimetry. It was thus possible to analyse the IC2017n exercise in accordance with the requirements given by this new standard. It is now of interest to reanalyse the results of IC2012n to quantify any modifications to the conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

YouTube is a non-peer-reviewed platform with a large library of healthcare-related videos which attempt to provide educational content. The goal of this study is to analyze the quality, absorbability, and educational content of videos available to patients on YouTube regarding ankle fractures. On May 31, 2022, over 550 videos populated the initial search of "ankle fracture" within YouTube's platform. The first 100 videos were reviewed, and 62 videos were included in the final analysis. Video characteristics were recorded and evaluated. Videos were assessed using three objective scoring systems: (1) the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria, (2) the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for audio and visual materials (PEMAT), and (3) the novel Ankle Fracture Content Score (AFCS). Each scoring system had high internal consistency and interrater reliability. The mean JAMA, PEMAT understandability, PEMAT actionability, and AFCS were 2.92, 61.85%, 16.38%, and 4.67, respectively. No association was seen between video popularity metrics and quality of information. The understandability of the patient-targeted videos was greater than those targeted at healthcare professionals (P = 0.049). The information regarding ankle fractures available on YouTube for patient education is poor with no correlation between quality and popularity. This study illustrates the need for future collaboration between YouTube and trusted medical societies to provide patients with the highest quality information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between size and performance of collaborative human small groups has been studied broadly across management, psychology, economics, sociology, and engineering disciplines. However, empirical research findings on this question remain equivocal. Many of the earlier studies centered on empirical human-subject experiments, which inevitably involved many confounding factors. To obtain more theory-driven mechanistic explanations of the linkage between group size and performance, we developed an agent-based simulation model that describes the complex process of collaborative group decision-making on problem-solving tasks. To find better solutions to a problem with given complexity, these agents repeatedly explore and share solution candidates, evaluate and respond to the solutions proposed by others, and update their understanding of the problem by conducting individual local search and incorporating others' proposals. Our results showed that under a condition of ineffective information sharing, group size was negatively related to group performance at the beginning of discussion across each level of problem complexity (i.e., low, medium, and high). However, in the long run, larger groups outperformed smaller groups for the problem with medium complexity and equally well for the problem with low complexity because larger groups developed higher solution diversity. For the problem with high complexity, the higher solution diversity led to more disagreements which in turn hindered larger groups' collaborative problem-solving ability. Our results also suggested that, in small collaborative team settings, effective information sharing can significantly improve group performance for groups of any size, especially for larger groups. This model provides a unified, mechanistic explanation of the conflicting observations reported in the existing empirical literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlling biofilm retention time in moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) and maintaining its performance for A-stage carbon redirection requires a reliable method to use as side stream biocarriers treatment. This paper investigates biofilm detachment and residual biofilm activity under multiple physicochemical treatment scenarios aiming to provide an applicable technique for control of biofilm retention time. Different mixing intensities (i.e. 30–120 rpm), filling fractions (i.e. 20%–100%), and pH (i.e. 2–12) were evaluated. Two continuously operating MBBRs were subjected to pH shocks of 2 and 12 to evaluate the impact of residual acidic or alkaline compounds on performance. The highest solids detachment (i.e. 70 ± 5%) was found in alkaline conditions and independent of mixing intensity and filling fraction. Biofilm detachment test revealed that alkaline shock produced higher detachment levels in a longer exposure time when compared to acidic conditions. The kinetic tests revealed 60% and 90% of the residual biofilm activity was lost at pH 12 and 2. The continuously operating MBBRs subjected to pH shocks of 2 and 12 demonstrated a 50% loss of soluble COD removal capability within one hydraulic retention time. Extracellular polymeric substances changes in its structure and surface properties influencing the degree of biofilm detachment and its solubilization properties leading to differences in biofilm resilience. The findings have shown that by applying a side stream alkali treatment it could be possible to control biofilm retention time ensuring its detachment up to 70% and a reduced impact on the residual biofilm activity returning to the reactor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) is a rare endocrine malignancy and an uncommon cause of primary hyperparathyroidism. It is more common in older Caucasians, with a slight male predominance. Among the patients with available data in a large national cancer registry of the U.S. population, PC was usually 2–4 cm in size, histologically defined as well-differentiated adenocarcinoma, and localized to the native glands with negative lymph nodes. The overwhelming majority (>95%) of the patients underwent surgery, with the remaining few receiving radiation or chemotherapy. The 5-year survival rate after surgery was 84%. Factors such as large tumor size (>4 cm), older age (>40 years), male sex, Caucasian race, distant spread, and poor tumor differentiation were associated with an increased risk of death. Introduction: Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) is an extremely rare entity, with a frequency of 0.005% of all malignancies. Most data related to this rare disease are limited to case series and a few database studies. We present a large database study that aims to investigate the demographic, clinical, and pathological factors, prognosis, and survival of PC. Methods: Data of parathyroid carcinoma were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) diagnosed between 1975 and 2016. Results: PC had a slightly higher incidence in men (52.2%, p < 0.005), the majority of cases affected Caucasians (75.4%, p < 0.005), and the mean age at diagnosis was 62 years. Histologically, 99.7% were adenocarcinomas not otherwise specified (p < 0.005), well-differentiated (p < 0.005), and 2–4 cm (p < 0.001) in size among the patients with available data. In cases with staging provided, most PC were organ-confined (36.8%, p < 0.001). Lymph nodes were positive in 25.2% of cases where lymph node status was reported. The main treatment modality was surgery (97.2%), followed by radiation alone (2%), and very few received chemotherapy alone (0.8%), p < 0.005. Five-year follow-up was available for 82.7% of the cases. Those who underwent surgery only or radiation alone had 5-year survivals of 83.8% and 72.2%, respectively (p < 0.037). Multivariable analysis identified tumor size >4 cm, age > 40 years, male sex, Caucasian race, distant spread, and poorly differentiated grade as independent risk factors for mortality (p < 0.001). Conclusion: PC is a very rare tumor mostly affecting Caucasian individuals in the fifth decade. Older age, poor histologic differentiation, and distant metastasis are associated with a worse prognosis. Surgical resection offers the best survival outcome. To better understand the pathogenesis and factors affecting survival, all PC patients should be enrolled in national and international registries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition, Asian American students experience racism in higher education differently, with Southeast Asian students reporting a lower sense of belonging on college campuses than East Asian students (Nguyen et al. 2018). In many sectors of United States society, Asians are viewed as a monolith and grouped into the broad category of Asian American Pacific Islander, or AAPI (Iftikar and Museus 2018). Highlighting Nuances in Asian American Experiences in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology However, it is important to acknowledge the history of the term Asian American and nuances between AAPI ethnic groups in the United States if we are interested in promoting racial justice in the field of ecology and evolutionary biology (EEB), other scientific fields, and society at large. [Extracted from the article]

Since 2012, the European Radiation Dosimetry Group (EURADOS) has developed its Strategic Research Agenda (SRA), which contributes to the identification of future research needs in radiation dosimetry in Europe. Continued scientific developments in this field necessitate regular updates and, consequently, this paper summarises the latest revision of the SRA, with input regarding the state of the art and vision for the future contributed by EURADOS Working Groups and through a stakeholder workshop. Five visions define key issues in dosimetry research that are considered important over at least the next decade. They include scientific objectives and developments in (i) updated fundamental dose concepts and quantities, (ii) improved radiation risk estimates deduced from epidemiological cohorts, (iii) efficient dose assessment for radiological emergencies, (iv) integrated personalised dosimetry in medical applications and (v) improved radiation protection of workers and the public. This SRA will be used as a guideline for future activities of EURADOS Working Groups but can also be used as guidance for research in radiation dosimetry by the wider community. It will also be used as input for a general European research roadmap for radiation protection, following similar previous contributions to the European Joint Programme for the Integration of Radiation Protection Research, under the Horizon 2020 programme (CONCERT). The full version of the SRA is available as a EURADOS report (www.eurados.org). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing a political economic framework, this study investigates the development and expansion of independent media in Afghanistan, focusing on one of the largest private media companies in the country, Moby Group. The company's approach to producing media is tied to its complex location as a translocal/transnational media entity. The company serves a unique population and navigates complex relationships locally and globally (operating in an emerging democratic state negotiating neoliberal market imperatives). This paper argues American-backed development of state-independent media and the rise of private companies such as Moby Group are part of larger geopolitical practices that further U.S. interests and the neoliberal agenda globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective teamwork in an initially leaderless group requires a high level of collective leadership emerging from dynamic interactions among group members. Leader emergence is a crucial topic in collective leadership, yet it is challenging to investigate as the problem context is typically highly complex and dynamic. Here, we explore leadership emergence and leadership perception by means of computational simulations whose assumptions and parameters were informed by empirical research and human-subject experiments. Our agent-based model describes the process of group planning. Each agent is assigned with three key attributes: talkativeness, intelligence, and credibility. An agent can propose a suggestion to modify the group plan as a speaker or respond and evaluate others' suggestions and leadership as a listener. Simulation results suggested that agents with high values of talkativeness, intelligence, and credibility tended to be perceived as leaders by their peers. Results also showed that talkativeness may be the most significant and instantaneous predictor for leader emergence of the three investigated attributes: talkativeness, intelligence, and credibility. In terms of group performance, smaller groups may outperform larger groups regarding their problem-solving ability in the beginning, but their performance tends to be of no significant difference in a long run. These results match the empirical literature and offer a mechanistic, operationalized description of the collective leadership processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using molecular dynamics simulations, we show that dodecane films confined between amorphous surfaces at 300 K retain liquid-like behavior down to film thicknesses of at least 1.8 nm and possibly smaller. This is in stark contrast to the behavior of films confined between crystalline surfaces which show an abrupt transition to a very high viscosity state at a film thickness of 4 nm. We show that it is the small increase in surface roughness in going from crystalline to amorphous walls, rather than the in-plane disorder, that is responsible for disrupting the crystalline bridges found in the crystal-confined films. The main consequences of the in-plane disorder are the removal of the orientational pinning of the local domain alignment and the reduction of the critical thickness at which the transition to film rigidity appears. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of stable and highly active anammox biofilm is a lengthy process leading to long start-up times of deammonifying reactors of several months or more. This study aims to provide a quick solution to the problem of long start-up periods by pretreating the surface of carrier material. Two different techniques were investigated. The first one focused on growing a layer of heterotrophic biofilm on the surface of the plastic carriers prior to inoculation with anammox biomass. Specific anammox activity increased by almost 400% as compared to seed values and was equal to 250 mg NH4-N/gVSS/L•d. In the second technique, the carrier material was coated with a layer of granular-activated carbon to provide a higher surface area. The anammox activity increased by approximately 50%. In comparison, the control reactor did not develop any biofilm and no anammox activity was detected. Rapid attachment of the anammox biomass was achieved in a reactor with media that had a predeveloped layer of a biofilm. In a way, this approach is analogous to a primer or an undercoat that is put on materials before painting to ensure better adhesion of paint to the surface, hence the suggested name - bioprimer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ICRU is considering amending the definition of the operational quantity for personnel monitoring. The present work investigates the impact of the proposed change on the PHE neutron personal dosemeter, which utilizes electrochemically etched PADC and is currently optimized in terms of H p(10). The energy-dependent dose response characteristics of the dosemeter, and its performance in realistic workplace neutron fields, are calculated and compared for both the current and proposed dose quantities, for both frontal and rotationally isotropic fields. Adoption of the proposed quantity would make the dosemeter more sensitive to normally incident neutrons, but it would require some modification to ensure that it is able to meet the recommendations of the current ISO standard at all energies and its directional dependence of response would be poorer. The implications of this are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes the purpose, the proposed problems and the reference solutions of an international comparison on neutron spectra unfolding in Bonner spheres spectrometry, organised within the activities of EURADOS working group 6: computational dosimetry. The exercise considered four realistic situations: a medical accelerator, a workplace field, an irradiation room and a skyshine scenario. Although a detailed analysis of the submitted solutions is under preparation, the preliminary discussion of some physical aspects of the problem, e.g. the changes in the unfolding results due to the perturbation of the neutron field by the Bonner spheres, is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 'terrible triad' of anterior shoulder dislocation, axillary nerve damage and rotator cuff tear has been previously described. However, we are unaware of any report of anterior shoulder dislocation, humeral fracture, axillary neuropathy and subsequent rotator cuff tear requiring surgery when the axillary neuropathy was deemed permanent. We report the case of a 20-year-old woman who fell in a motocross accident and had an anterior shoulder dislocation, humeral fracture and axillary neuropathy. The fracture was treated surgically with open reduction and internal fixation. The axillary nerve injury was ultimately permanent. Thirteen months after the motocross accident, the patient sustained a rotator cuff tear from seemingly minor trauma. However, several months of aggressive physical therapy preceded the rotator cuff tear. The tear was repaired and the patient was followed for 5 years after the initial injury. She returned to competing in motocross, even though the axillary neuropathy remained complete and permanent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcoidosis is an idiopathic systemic inflammatory disorder characterized histologically by noncaseating granulomas. The pathogenesis likely includes genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors. The lungs, skin, and eyes are most commonly affected. Although bone involvement is possible, sarcoidosis of the humerus is rare, with few cases reported. Furthermore, we are unaware of any reports of sarcoidosis of the upper humerus with a coexisting rotator cuff tear. We report the case of a 50-year-old female with sarcoidosis of the humerus and a coexisting tear of the supraspinatus tendon. Her medical history includes type 2 diabetes, depression, and fatigue. She had chronic shoulder pain that worsened after her dog jerked on the leash. Radiographs were grossly normal. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a possible small full-thickness rotator cuff tear. Multiple rounded lesions were also noted within the proximal humerus. A biopsy demonstrated noncaseating granulomas, confirming the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. There was concern that her sarcoid lesions would compromise bone quality, limiting options for surgical repair of her rotator cuff tear. However, it was determined that her lesion did not involve cortical bone, and surgery was performed. During surgery, the supraspinatus tendon was found to be partially torn and was treated with arthroscopic debridement and acromioplasty. An excellent result was ultimately achieved after her rheumatologist started adalimumab injections. This case demonstrates that there can be a rare incidental finding of osseous sarcoid lesions in the upper humerus where the bone might be compromised in the location of a planned rotator cuff repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the changing news environment, young adult audiences, often dubbed ‘the Internet generation’, have increasingly gravitated toward online sources of news and information, raising questions about the nature and amount of news consumed. This study joins many others in looking at the emerging processes of news consumption among, in this case, college students, using focus group interviews to further examine how they go about obtaining news. Drawing upon literature in the areas of news consumption, media habits, generational change and news repertoire, this study identifies an emerging three-stage process of consumption that includes the following: routine surveillance, incidental consumption, and directed consumption, each conditioned by various forms of new media use. It suggests continued research in the interaction of a changing media ecology with generational adoption of news habits and the implications of this interaction for news and news engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Sealed osteons are unusual variants of secondary osteons that have received little attention, especially in non‐human bones. Sealed osteons are characterized by central canals that are plugged with bone tissue. As with other variants of secondary osteons (e.g. drifting, dumbbell, multi‐canal), understanding how and why sealed osteons form can shed light on the mechanisms that regulate normal bone remodeling and how this process can be perturbed with aging and some diseases. In a recent microscopic evaluation of human tibiae obtained after traumatic amputations, 4–5% of the osteons were sealed. It is suggested that this high prevalence reflects occasional localized microscopic ischemia from normal osteonal remodeling; hence sealed osteons are implicated in human skeletal fragility. Therefore, osteon prevalence would be expected to correlate with the bone remodeling seen with aging; for example, showing positive relationships between sealed osteons and the population density of typical secondary osteons (OPD). We evaluated the prevalence of partially sealed (80–99% sealed) and fully sealed osteons with respect to age and variations in OPD in 10 adult human femora (34–71 years) and in various non‐human appendicular bones of mature animals that were not of advanced age, including deer calcanei, equine radii and equine third metacarpals. An additional sample of 10 bilateral human femora with unilateral non‐cemented total hip replacements (F,+HR) and non‐implanted contralateral femora (F,−HR) were evaluated (10 patients; 52–94 years). In non‐human bones, sealed + partially sealed osteons were rare (~0.1%) even when having relatively high OPD. When considering sealed + partially sealed osteons in femora from patients without any HR, results showed that 1.6% of the osteons were sealed or partially sealed, which was much lower than anticipated, but this is 10‐ to 20‐fold more than in any of the non‐human bones. Additionally, in all bones, sealed + partially sealed osteons were significantly smaller than typical secondary osteons (mean diameters: 125 vs. 272 μm; P < 0.005). In the patients with HR, the percentage of sealed + partially sealed osteons: (i) did not correlate with age, (ii) showed no significant difference between F,−HR and F,+HR (1.9 vs. 2.1%; P = 0.2), and (iii) was positively correlated with OPD (r = 0.67, P = 0.001), which differs from the very weak or lack of correlations in the non‐human bones and the other human femur sample. The lack of an age‐related relationship, in addition to the very low prevalence of sealed + partially sealed osteons are inconsistent with the idea that they contribute to reduced bone quality seen in aging humans. The small size of sealed and partially sealed osteons, regardless of species affiliation, suggests that they represent closing cones at the termini of some osteons. Available evidence suggests that osteons of primates might have a greater capacity for branching that is associated with closing cones, which might explain the 10–20 times higher prevalence of sealed + partially sealed osteons in the human bones examined in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim We examine the influence of fluctuating sea levels in a land-bridge archipelago on the apportioning of intraspecific genetic diversity and divergence in the widespread Puerto Rican crested anole ( Anolis cristatellus). We compare three alternative scenarios for genetic diversification in an archipelagic species that contrast the relative influences of periodic isolation versus island connectedness driven by fluctuating sea levels. Our approach combines information from geography and population genetics to assess the influence of island size, island isolation, island historical geography, and population genetic processes such as drift on the contemporary distribution of genetic variation within and among islands. Location The Puerto Rico Bank in the Caribbean focusing primarily on the Spanish, British and U.S. Virgin Islands. Methods We used nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences and microsatellite genotypes sampled from A. cristatellus populations to investigate: (1) the broad-scale pattern of phylogeographical divergence across Puerto Rico Bank islands and (2) diversification within the Virgin Islands archipelago. For the first component, we used sequence data to reconstruct the relationships among 542 samples from across the species range. For the second component, we examined the relative influences of island size, isolation, and population genetic processes on the distribution of genetic diversity across the Virgin Islands. Results In the Virgin Islands, A. cristatellus is represented by a monophyletic clade except on the island of Vieques, where two divergent clades coexist. We found evidence for non-equilibrium dynamics in the Virgin Islands, suggesting spatial population expansion during intraglacial periods of low sea level. Main conclusions We found limited evidence that periods of island isolation affected patterns of genetic diversity and differentiation. Instead, we found that the patterns of genetic diversity and divergence in A. cristatellus in the Virgin Islands archipelago are likely shaped by long-term persistence in the region and periods of population spatial expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears can be reconstructed with latissimus dorsi tendon transfers (LDTT). Although uncommon, the natural length of the latissimus dorsi tendon (LDT) could be insufficient for transfer even after adequate soft tissue releases. Descriptions of cases where grafts were needed to lengthen the LDT are therefore rare. We located only two reports of the use of an acellular dermal matrix to increase effective tendon length in tendon transfers about the shoulder: (1) GraftJacket patch for a pectoralis major tendon reconstruction and (2) ArthroFlex® patch for LDTT. Both of these brands of allograft patches are obtained from human cadavers. These products are usually used to cover soft tissue repairs and offer supplemental support rather than for increasing tendon length. Extending the LDTT with GraftJacket to achieve adequate length, to our knowledge, has not been reported in the literature. We report the case of a 50-year-old male who had a massive, irreparable left shoulder rotator cuff tear that was reconstructed with a LDTT. The natural length of his LDT was insufficient for transfer. This unexpected situation was rectified by sewing two patches of GraftJacket to the LDT. The patient had greatly improved shoulder function at two-year follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of EPPO Bulletin is the property of Wiley-Blackwell 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.)

An EPPO Contingency Planning Workshop for a Forestry Pest was held in Zlatibor, Serbia, between 27 and 29 November 2018. In total, 55 experts from 21 EPPO member countries attended the 3‐day workshop. Participants were split into four groups for the exercise and each group acted as an 'outbreak management team' for a scenario based on the finding of a quarantine pest for forestry. Only when the exercise had started were participants informed that the outbreak scenario centred around the fictitious discovery of pinewood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus) in the Tara National Park in Serbia. As the scenario developed, each team had to organize themselves to manage a number of issues designed to mimic the development of an outbreak over the first month following its detection. It was clear from the feedback from participants that that contingency planning workshop was a valuable exercise for EPPO to conduct and participants highlighted the importance of it to prepare themselves for real‐life situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The individual monitoring service of Public Health England (PHE) uses HarshawTM whole-body and extremity thermoluminescent dosemeters (TLDs) with high-sensitivity lithium fluoride LiF:Mg,Cu,P, together with Harshaw 8800TM automated readers. The neutron-insensitive, 6Li-depleted variety of TLD material is used by PHE because the service provides separate neutron and photon dosemeters. The neutron dosemeters are not sensitive to photons and vice versa. Since insensitivity to neutrons is a supply requirement for TLDs, there is a need to test every new (annual) consignment for this. Because it is thermal neutrons that produce a response in 6Li TLDs, a thermal field is needed. To this end, PHE has adopted the simple approach of sandwiching the TLDs between two ISO water-filled slab phantoms. In this arrangement, the fast neutrons from an Am-Be source are effectively thermalised. Details of the method are given, together with the results of supporting MCNP calculations and some typical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of EXT-RAD™ extremity TLDs and radiochromic film to measure doses from primarily beta-emitting microparticles is discussed. Specific calibration techniques have been developed, using both Monte Carlo modelling and experiments. Results for a 90Sr/90Y microparticle are presented to illustrate the general techniques and to demonstrate reasonable agreement between the dosimetry methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Public Health England fortuitous dosimetry capability is reviewed, with particular attention focussed on the derivation of its energy and fading corrections, the Monte Carlo techniques used to generate the calibration factors between phone and body doses, and the procedures set in place to facilitate a reliable and effective service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2012, the European Radiation Dosimetry Group (EURADOS) performed an intercomparison for neutron dosemeters that are intended to measure personal dose equivalent, Hp(10). A total of 31 participants registered with 34 dosimetry systems. The irradiation tests were chosen to provide the participants with useful information on their dosimetry systems, i.e. linearity, reproducibility, responses for different energies and angles and to simulated workplace fields. This paper gives details of the extensive information derived from the exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impatiens glandulifera is one of the most widespread invasive plant species in the UK. Although aspects of its biology are known, there is little information about its association with microbial communities, both above ground and below ground. Furthermore, it is unknown whether this species exhibits any form of plant-soil feedback ( PSF), commonly seen in other invasive weeds. We conducted a PSF experiment, in which plants of I. glandulifera were grown in soil that supported the species and compared with plants grown in a control soil from the same locality. Soil nutrients were measured, and the soil and foliar microbial communities were assessed. Impatiens glandulifera grew larger and faster in conditioned soil compared with the control. Higher levels of phosphate were also found in conditioned soils. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal ( AMF) colonisation was lower in conditioned soils, suggesting that I. glandulifera may rapidly alter AMF communities in invaded areas. PSFs had a significant effect on the foliar endophyte community, with clear separation of species between conditioned and control soils. These results show that I. glandulifera displayed a positive PSF and the PSF mechanism extended beyond the soil microbial community to affect foliar endophytes. The observed increase in endophytes in plants grown in conditioned soil could enhance resistance to herbivory, thus further accentuating the invasive properties of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since autumn 2012, the European Radiation Dosimetry Group (EURADOS) has been developing its Strategic Research Agenda (SRA), which is intended to contribute to the identification of future research needs in radiation dosimetry in Europe. The present article summarises--based on input from EURADOS Working Groups (WGs) and Voting Members--five visions in dosimetry and defines key issues in dosimetry research that are considered important for the next decades. The five visions include scientific developments required towards (a) updated fundamental dose concepts and quantities, (b) improved radiation risk estimates deduced from epidemiological cohorts, (c) efficient dose assessment for radiological emergencies, (d) integrated personalised dosimetry in medical applications and (e) improved radiation protection of workers and the public. The SRA of EURADOS will be used as a guideline for future activities of the EURADOS WGs. A detailed version of the SRA can be downloaded as a EURADOS report from the EURADOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article critically analyzes the Progressive insurance campaign featuring the spokescharacter Flo, who since 2008 has appeared in over 100 television commercials and a variety of print, radio, and web-based advertising and promotions. The article argues that the campaign exemplifies a version of commodity fetishism, nostalgically representing retail spaces and workers in ways that mask the realities of reduced-labor businesses in the digital, neoliberal, and (post)recession era. Its construction of Flo as an “always available,” flexible, and branded laborer blurs distinctions between modern workers’ private and work life, and is a particularly gendered portrayal that sometimes sexualizes the character while at work. This marketing strategy is also used by other modern brands. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The rust fungus Puccinia komarovii var. glanduliferae was first identified infecting Impatiens glandulifera in its native range (western Himalayas) between 2006 and 2010. Subsequently, it was imported into quarantine in the UK for evaluation as a classical biocontrol agent. To assess the safety of the rust, plant species relevant to Europe were tested for susceptibility. To confirm the life cycle, all infective spore stages were inoculated on I. glandulifera to follow disease progression. Teliospores were primed using bleaching and low temperatures to break dormancy. Temperature and dew period experiments using urediniospores were conducted to assess the parameters required for infection. Of the 74 plant species tested, only I. balsamina, an ornamental species, was fully susceptible to urediniospore inoculum. The life cycle of the rust - an autoecious, full-cycled species with five spore stages - was confirmed. Urediniospores were infective between 5 and 25°C, with an optimum at 15°C. A minimum of 8 h dew period was required to achieve consistent infection. Based on a pest risk assessment, the rust poses no threat to native biodiversity within EU Member States; making P. komarovii var. glanduliferae a suitable candidate as the first fungal classical biocontrol agent against an exotic weed in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In embryonic stem cells ( ESCs), gene regulatory networks ( GRNs) coordinate gene expression to maintain ESC identity; however, the complete repertoire of factors regulating the ESC state is not fully understood. Our previous temporal microarray analysis of ESC commitment identified the E3 ubiquitin ligase protein Makorin-1 ( MKRN1) as a potential novel component of the ESC GRN. Here, using multilayered systems-level analyses, we compiled a MKRN1-centered interactome in undifferentiated ESCs at the proteomic and ribonomic level. Proteomic analyses in undifferentiated ESCs revealed that MKRN1 associates with RNA-binding proteins, and ensuing RIP-chip analysis determined that MKRN1 associates with m RNAs encoding functionally related proteins including proteins that function during cellular stress. Subsequent biological validation identified MKRN1 as a novel stress granule-resident protein, although MKRN1 is not required for stress granule formation, or survival of unstressed ESCs. Thus, our unbiased systems-level analyses support a role for the E3 ligase MKRN1 as a ribonucleoprotein within the ESC GRN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air quality measurements at Look Rock, Tennessee - on the western edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park - were begun in 1980 and expanded during the 1980s to a National Park Service (NPS) IMPROVE network station. Measurements were expanded again by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA, 1999-2007) to examine the effects of electric generating unit (EGU) emission reductions of SO2 and NOx on air quality at the station. Analysis of temporal trends (1999-2013) has been conducted at the site in collaboration with activities related to the 2013 Southeast Atmosphere Study (SAS) at Look Rock and other southeastern US locations. Key findings from these trend studies include the observation that primary pollutant levels have consistently tracked emission reductions from EGUs and other primary sources in the region, but reductions in secondary pollutants such as particulate sulfate and, specifically, ozone have been smaller compared to reductions in primary emissions. Organic carbonaceous material (OM) remains a major contributor (30- 40% in the period 2009-2013) to fine particulate mass at the site, as confirmed by ACSM measurements at the site in 2013. A large portion (65-85%) of carbon in OM derives from modern carbon sources based on 14C measurements. Important parameters affecting ozone levels, fine mass, and visibility also include the specific diurnal meteorology at this ridge-top site, its location in a predominantly mixeddeciduous forest, and the presence of primary sources of precursors at distances of 50-500 km from the site in all directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air quality measurements at Look Rock, Tennessee -- on the western edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park-were begun in 1980 and expanded during the 1980s to a National Park Service (NPS) IMPROVE network station. Measurements were expanded again by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA, 1999-2007) to examine the effects of electric generating unit (EGU) emission reductions of SO2 and NOx on air quality at the station. Analysis of temporal trends (1999-2013) has been conducted at the site in collaboration with activities related to the 2013 Southeast Atmosphere Study (SAS) at Look Rock and other southeastern US locations. Key findings from these trend studies include the observation that primary pollutant levels have consistently tracked emissions reductions from EGUs and other primary sources in the region but reductions in secondary pollutants such as particulate sulfate and, specifically, ozone have been smaller compared to reductions in primary emissions. Organic carbonaceous material (OM) remains a major contributor (30-40% in the period 2009-2013) to fine particulate mass at the site, as confirmed by ACSM measurements at the site in 2013. A large portion (65-85 % ) of carbon in OM derives from modern carbon sources based on 14C measurements. Important parameters affecting ozone levels, fine mass and visibility also include the specific diurnal meteorology at this ridge-top site, its location in a predominantly mixed-deciduous forest, and the presence of primary sources of precursors at distances of 50-500 km from the site in all directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air quality measurements at Look Rock, Tennessee - on the western edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park - were begun in 1980 and expanded during the 1980s to a National Park Service (NPS) IMPROVE network station. Measurements were expanded again by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA, 1999-2007) to examine the effects of electric generating unit (EGU) emission reductions of SO2 and NOx on air quality at the station. Analysis of temporal trends (1999-2013) has been conducted at the site in collaboration with activities related to the 2013 Southeast Atmosphere Study (SAS) at Look Rock and other southeastern US locations. Key findings from these trend studies include the observation that primary pollutant levels have consistently tracked emissions reductions from EGUs and other primary sources in the region but reductions in secondary pollutants such as particulate sulfate and, specifically, ozone have been smaller compared to reductions in primary emissions. Organic carbonaceous material (OM) remains a major contributor (30-40% in the period 2009-2013) to fine particulate mass at the site, as confirmed by ACSM measurements at the site in 2013. A large portion (65-85%) of carbon in OM derives from modern carbon sources based on 14C measurements. Important parameters affecting ozone levels, fine mass and visibility also include the specific diurnal meteorology at this ridge-top site, its location in a predominantly mixed-deciduous forest, and the presence of primary sources of precursors at distances of 50-500 km from the site in all directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Work is presented on the development of a retrospective/fortuitous accident dosimetry service using optically stimulated luminescence of resistors found in mobile phones to determine the doses of radiation to members of the public following a radiological accident or terrorist incident. The system is described and discussed in terms of its likely accuracy in a real incident. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Work is presented on the development of a retrospective/fortuitous accident dosimetry service using optically stimulated luminescence of resistors found in mobile phones to determine the doses of radiation to members of the public following a radiological accident or terrorist incident. The system is described and discussed in terms of its likely accuracy in a real incident. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Work is presented on the development of a retrospective/fortuitous accident dosimetry service using optically stimulated luminescence of resistors found in mobile phones to determine the doses of radiation to members of the public following a radiological accident or terrorist incident. The system is described and discussed in terms of its likely accuracy in a real incident. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Patients with COPD commonly exhibit pursed-lip breathing during exercise, a strategy that, by increasing intrinsic positive end-expiratory pressure, may optimise lung mechanics and exercise tolerance. A similar role for laryngeal narrowing in modulating exercise airways resistance and the respiratory cycle volume-time course is postulated, yet remains unstudied in COPD. The aim of this study was to assess the characteristics of laryngeal narrowing and its role in exercise intolerance and dynamic hyperinflation in COPD. Methods We studied 19 patients (n=8 mild-moderate; n=11 severe COPD) and healthy age and sex matched controls (n=11). Baseline physiological characteristics and clinical status were assessed prior to an incremental maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test with continuous laryngoscopy. Laryngeal narrowing measures were calculated at the glottic and supra-glottic aperture at rest and peak exercise. Results At rest, expiratory laryngeal narrowing was pronounced at the glottic level in patients and related to FEV1 in the whole cohort (r=-0.71, p<0.001) and patients alone (r = - 0 . 5 3, p=0.018). During exercise, glottic narrowing was inversely related to peak ventilation in all subjects (r = - 0 . 55, p=0.0015) and patients (r=--0.71, p<0.001) and peak exercise tidal volume (r=--0.58, p=0.0062 and r=--0.55, p=0.0076, respectively). Exercise glottic narrowing was also inversely related to peak oxygen uptake (% predicted) in all subjects (r=--0.65, p<0.001) and patients considered alone (r=--0.58, p=0.014). Exercise inspiratory duty cycle was related to exercise glottic narrowing for all subjects (r=--0.69, p<0.001) and patients (r=--0.62, p<0.001). Conclusions Dynamic laryngeal narrowing during expiration is prevalent in patients with COPD and is related to disease severity, respiratory duty cycle and exercise capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]