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Introduction: Myeloneuropathy is a diagnosis ascribed to disorders that concomitantly affect the spinal cord and peripheral nerves. Recognizing this syndrome may sometimes be arduous, even for the most consummate clinicians, because symptomatology can mimic either spinal cord or peripheral nerve disease. Besides, examination findings suggest a predominantly myelopathic or neuropathic picture. This article reports a rendezvous of rare cases of clinically diagnosed myeloneuropathy with different etiological backgrounds and therapeutic responses. Methods: Eleven cases of non-compressive myeloneuropathy were admitted to the Department of General Medicine of Burdwan Medical College and Hospital, Burdwan, West Bengal, India, between May 2018 and May 2022. Results: We report the cases of 11 patients (6 men and 5 women) who presented with myeloneuropathy of different etiologies (vitamin B12, copper, and vitamin E deficiencies, organophosphate poisoning, chronic alcohol abuse, illicit substances abuse, anti-thyroid peroxidase/anti-thyroglobulin antibody-related neurologic disorder responsive to steroids, Sjögren syndrome, chikungunya infection, paraneoplastic, and hereditary). Conclusion: Meticulous historical analysis, careful clinical examination, and apposite utilization and interpretation of biochemical, electrophysiological, and neuroimaging findings are sine-qua-non for an accurate and consistent approach to evaluating a suspected case of myeloneuropathy, facilitating early treatment and recovery. Differential identification of these disorders needs an in-depth perception of the mode of onset of symptoms, the course of progression of the disease, the pattern of myelopathic/neuropathic findings, and recognition of other neurological or systemic manifestations. For untroubled understanding, etiologies of myeloneuropathies should be subdivided into a few broad categories, e.g., metabolic (nutritional), toxic (toxin-induced), infectious, inflammatory (immune-mediated), paraneoplastic, and hereditary disorders. Resumen: Introducción: La mieloneuropatía es un síndrome que afecta concomitantemente la médula espinal y los nervios periféricos. Reconocerlo a veces puede ser arduo, incluso para los médicos más experimentados, porque la sintomatología puede simular una enfermedad de la médula espinal o de los nervios periféricos. Además, los hallazgos del examen sugieren un cuadro predominantemente mielopático o neuropático. Este artículo describe una serie de casos raros de mieloneuropatía de distintas causas y con respuestas terapéuticas distintas. Métodos: Once casos de mieloneuropatía no compresiva fueron ingresados en el Departamento de Medicina General del Burdwan Medical College, and Hospital, Burdwan, Bengala Occidental, India, entre mayo de 2018 y mayo de 2022. Resultados: Presentamos 11 pacientes (seis hombres y cinco mujeres) con mieloneuropatía de diferentes etiologías (deficiencias de vitamina B12, cobre y vitamina E, intoxicación por organofosforados, abuso crónico de alcohol, abuso de sustancias ilícitas, trastorno neurológico relacionado con anticuerpos anti-tiroglobulina / antiperoxidasa tiroidea que responde a esteroides, síndrome de Sjögren, infección por chikungunya, paraneoplásico y hereditario). Conclusión: El análisis meticuloso de la historia y del examen clínico, así como la utilización e interpretación adecuadas de los hallazgos bioquímicos, electrofisiológicos y de neuroimagen son condiciones sine qua non para un enfoque preciso y consistente para evaluar un caso sospechoso de mieloneuropatía, lo que facilita el tratamiento temprano y su recuperación. El diagnóstico diferencial de esta patología requiere un conocimiento del modo de inicio de los síntomas, su progresión, el patrón de hallazgos mielopáticos/neuropáticos y el reconocimiento de otras manifestaciones neurológicas o sistémicas. Las etiologías de las mieloneuropatías deben subdividirse en trastornos metabólicos (nutricionales), tóxicos (inducidos por toxinas), infecciosos, inflamatorios (mediados por mecanismos inmunitarios), paraneoplásicos y hereditarias.

The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) was designed to conduct a survey covering 14,000 deg ^2 over 5 yr to constrain the cosmic expansion history through precise measurements of baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO). The scientific program for DESI was evaluated during a 5 month survey validation (SV) campaign before beginning full operations. This program produced deep spectra of tens of thousands of objects from each of the stellar Milky Way Survey (MWS), Bright Galaxy Survey (BGS), luminous red galaxy (LRG), emission line galaxy (ELG), and quasar target classes. These SV spectra were used to optimize redshift distributions, characterize exposure times, determine calibration procedures, and assess observational overheads for the 5 yr program. In this paper, we present the final target selection algorithms, redshift distributions, and projected cosmology constraints resulting from those studies. We also present a One-Percent Survey conducted at the conclusion of SV covering 140 deg ^2 using the final target selection algorithms with exposures of a depth typical of the main survey. The SV indicates that DESI will be able to complete the full 14,000 deg ^2 program with spectroscopically confirmed targets from the MWS, BGS, LRG, ELG, and quasar programs with total sample sizes of 7.2, 13.8, 7.46, 15.7, and 2.87 million, respectively. These samples will allow exploration of the Milky Way halo, clustering on all scales, and BAO measurements with a statistical precision of 0.28% over the redshift interval z < 1.1, 0.39% over the redshift interval 1.1 < z < 1.9, and 0.46% over the redshift interval 1.9 < z < 3.5.

The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) completed its 5 month Survey Validation in 2021 May. Spectra of stellar and extragalactic targets from Survey Validation constitute the first major data sample from the DESI survey. This paper describes the public release of those spectra, the catalogs of derived properties, and the intermediate data products. In total, the public release includes good-quality spectral information from 466,447 objects targeted as part of the Milky Way Survey, 428,758 as part of the Bright Galaxy Survey, 227,318 as part of the Luminous Red Galaxy sample, 437,664 as part of the Emission Line Galaxy sample, and 76,079 as part of the Quasar sample. In addition, the release includes spectral information from 137,148 objects that expand the scope beyond the primary samples as part of a series of secondary programs. Here, we describe the spectral data, data quality, data products, Large-Scale Structure science catalogs, access to the data, and references that provide relevant background to using these spectra.

Abstract High-purity microfine mullite precursor powder of stoichiometric chemical composition, 3Al2O3.2SiO2, was synthesized through the sol-gel route using aluminum isopropoxide and tetraethyl orthosilicate. The derived mullite precursor powder was characterized by BET surface area, particle size distribution, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Phase analysis of the precursor powder and calcined samples at different temperatures was done by XRD. Non-isothermal crystallization kinetics of mullite precursor was studied by TG-DTA in static air using heating rates of 5.0, 7.5, 10.0, 12.5, and 15 K.min-1. Grain morphology was studied by SEM. The results showed that synthesized mullite precursor powder possessed homogeneity of Al and Si components, and the amorphous precursor powder was converted to monophasic mullite crystal when heat-treated at 970 °C. Based on Flynn-Wall-Ozawa and Kissinger equations, the activation energy associated with the crystallization of mullite was determined to be 1189.8 and 1189.0 kJ.mol-1, respectively.

The studies in the classification of the urban spatial structure have been essential in deriving insights into the land cover and the built typology which helped in the estimation of energy consumption patterns, urban density, compactness, and hierarchy of settlements. However, the analysis and comparison of the physical forms of the cities have been attempted in a piecemeal fashion where the requirement of datasets and the computation power for analysis has been a major hindrance. With the advancement in machine learning based techniques, large datasets such as satellite imagery can be studied with advanced computer vision methods. These solutions may help in studying the intricate nature of human habitats in large extents of geographical areas including various urban areas. This study utilizes smaller patches of medium resolution Sentinel-2B Imagery of ten different cities in India to explore the urban forms present in these cities. This study uses Stacked Convolutional Autoencoder (CAE) to reduce the dimensionality of satellite imagery patches and unsupervised clustering techniques such as t-SNE and K-means to study the characteristics of similar patches. On analyzing the clusters through visual exploration, similar patches are delineated and provided with corresponding labels representing urban forms. Individual clusters are then studied with respect to each city. The motive of the study is to gain insights into the different types of morphological patterns present within and among cities.

Objectives: To study the presentation and management of the exstrophy-epispadias complex in adolescents and adults and to evaluate the outcome of the repair. Subjects and methods: This retrospective review of our medical records of adult patients with an exstrophy-epispadias complex managed between January 2010 and June 2015 included one female and 7 male patients. Only patients aged above 10 years who had not undergone any surgical treatment during childhood were included in the study. All patients were subjected to preoperative biopsy from the urinary bladder plate. None of them underwent cystectomy. Seven patients underwent urinary bladder augmentation using ileocystoplasty, bladder neck reconstruction with para-urethral tissue closure using a wedge of pubic bone, and single-stage epispadias repair. In one patient epispadias repair was not done due to intraoperative hemodynamic instability. Results: All patients are continent but one in whom epispadias repair was not done and who is waiting for epispadias repair. One patient has developed a urethro-cutaneous fistula at the base of the penis. Two patients developed urinary bladder stones, and both of them were managed by minimally invasive methods. All the patients are on clean intermittent self-catheterization. They are all doing well socially and psychologically. Conclusion: Though exstrophy-epispadias in adolescents and adults is a rare entity, the described modified surgical technique provides good results and improves the patients’ social and psychological well being.

Object GRB 221009A is the brightest gamma-ray burst (GRB) detected in more than 50 yr of study. In this paper, we present observations in the X-ray and optical domains obtained by the GRANDMA Collaboration and the Insight Collaboration. We study the optical afterglow with empirical fitting using the GRANDMA+HXMT-LE data sets augmented with data from the literature up to 60 days. We then model numerically using a Bayesian approach, and we find that the GRB afterglow, extinguished by a large dust column, is most likely behind a combination of a large Milky Way dust column and moderate low-metallicity dust in the host galaxy. Using the GRANDMA+HXMT-LE+XRT data set, we find that the simplest model, where the observed afterglow is produced by synchrotron radiation at the forward external shock during the deceleration of a top-hat relativistic jet by a uniform medium, fits the multiwavelength observations only moderately well, with a tension between the observed temporal and spectral evolution. This tension is confirmed when using the augmented data set. We find that the consideration of a jet structure (Gaussian or power law), the inclusion of synchrotron self-Compton emission, or the presence of an underlying supernova do not improve the predictions. Placed in the global context of GRB optical afterglows, we find that the afterglow of GRB 221009A is luminous but not extraordinarily so, highlighting that some aspects of this GRB do not deviate from the global known sample despite its extreme energetics and the peculiar afterglow evolution.

Résumé: L’abcès prostatique est causé généralement par les entérobactéries rarement par le staphylococcus aureus. Sa mortalité et morbidité ont baissé depuis l’introduction des antibiotiques à large spectre. Souvent les signes sont non spécifiques. Le diagnostic est rendu aisé grâce à l’échographie endorectale. Le drainage percutané (périnéal ou transrectal) sous contrôle scanographique ou plus fréquemment sous échographie endorectale, permet une évacuation rapide des abcès, tout en évitant une anesthésie générale. Il s’agit d’une technique efficace et moins invasive que le drainage chirurgical ou la résection transuréthrale de la prostate. Nous insisterons à travers cette observation que ce site potentiel d’infection doit être reconnu. Abstract: Prostatic abscess is usually caused by enterobacteria rarely by staphylococcus aureus. Its mortality and morbidity have declined since the introduction of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Often the signs are nonspecific. Diagnosis is made easy by endorectal ultrasound. Percutaneous drainage (perineal or transrectal) under CT or more frequently under endorectal ultrasound, allows rapid evacuation of abscesses, while avoiding general anesthesia. This is an effective and less invasive technique than surgical drainage or transurethral resection of the prostate. We will insist through this observation that this potential site of infection must be recognized. Mots clés: Abcès, Prostate, Staphylococcus, Diabète, Drainage, Keywords: Abscess, Prostate, Staphylococcus, Diabetes, Drainage

Abstract Background Although osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent form of arthritis, there is still no effective treatment capable of combining immunomodulatory effects with cartilage repair. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) represent a promising new generation of cell-free therapies for OA. Blood-derived products, including plasma, are an easily available and abundant source of EVs with anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. In this study, our objective was to analyze the effect of platelet poor plasma-derived extracellular vesicles (PPP-EVs) on stimulated OA chondrocytes in vitro. We hypothesize that PPP from healthy donors could be a suitable source of EVs that can modulate the inflammatory environment of OA chondrocytes. Methods Cartilage and synovial membrane (SM) were obtained from patients with OA and whole blood from healthy donors. Synovial membrane-conditioned media (CM / SM) was analyzed using multiplex immunoassays. EVs were isolated from PPP using size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and characterized by nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), Western blot, and flow cytometry (FC). The phenotype of the chondrocytes was analyzed using fluorescence microscopy and RT-qPCR. Chondrocytes were stimulated with IL-1β or CM/SM for 24 h. The impact of PPP-EVs on stimulated chondrocyte gene expression was evaluated using RT-qPCR. Results The PPP-EVs isolated by SEC were positive for the tetraspanins CD9, CD63, and CD81. The chondrocyte phenotype was confirmed by positive expression of Collagen II and Aggrecane. CM/SM and IL-1β caused inflammatory changes in chondrocytes, which was observed by increased expression of the genes MMP-1, MMP-3 and MMP-13, RANTES, TSG-6, and YKL-40 compared to the control. PPP-EVs added to stimulated chondrocytes for 24 h significantly decreased the expression of the chondrocyte gene YKL-40, TSG-6 and MMP-1. Conclusions In this study, we confirmed that PPP is a suitable source of EVs, which can be efficiently isolated by SEC. We found that PPP-EVs were capable of decreasing the expression of inflammatory genes in OA chondrocytes stimulated with IL-1β or CM/SM. This study provides preliminary results on PPP-EVs as an affordable and promising option to modulate the catabolic microenvironment of OA chondrocytes in vitro.

Abstract Background Dexamethasone 6 mg in patients with severe COVID-19 has been shown to decrease mortality and morbidity. The effects of higher doses of corticosteroid, that would further increase anti-inflammatory effects, are uncertain. The objective of our study was to assess the effect of 20 mg dexamethasone vs. 6 mg dexamethasone intravenously in patients with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and COVID-19. Methods In a multicenter, open-label, randomized trial conducted in nine hospitals in the Czech Republic, we randomized adult patients with ARDS and COVID-19 requiring high-flow oxygen, noninvasive or invasive mechanical ventilation to receive either intravenous high-dose dexamethasone (20 mg/day on days 1–5, 10 mg/day on days 6–10) or standard-dose dexamethasone (6 mg/d, days 1–10). The primary outcome was 28-day ventilator-free days. The five secondary outcomes were 60-day mortality, C-reactive protein dynamics, 14-day WHO (World Health Organization) Clinical Progression Scale score, adverse events and 90-day Barthel index. The long-term outcomes were 180- and 360-day mortality and the Barthel index. The planned sample size was 300, with interim analysis after enrollment of 150 patients. Results The trial was stopped due to a lack of recruitment, and the follow-up was completed in February 2023. Among 234 randomized patients of 300 planned patients, the primary outcome was available for 224 patients (110 high-dose and 114 standard-dose dexamethasone; median [interquartile range (IQR)] age, 59.0 [48.5–66.0] years; 130 [58.0%] were receiving noninvasive or invasive mechanical ventilation at baseline). The mean number of 28-day ventilator-free days was 8.9 (± 11.5) days for high-dose dexamethasone and 8.0 (± 10.7) days for standard-dose dexamethasone, with an absolute difference of + 0.81 days (95% CI − 2.12–3.73 days). None of the prespecified secondary outcomes, including adverse events, differed between the groups. Conclusions Despite not reaching its prespecified enrollment, there was no signal to either benefit or harm high-dose dexamethasone over standard-dose dexamethasone in patients with COVID-19 and moderate-to-severe ARDS. Trial registration Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04663555. Registered 10 December 2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04663555?term=NCT04663555&rank=1 and EudraCT: 2020–005887-70.

Abstract Aims Recent‐onset dilated cardiomyopathy (RODCM) is characterized by heterogeneous aetiology and diverse clinical outcomes, with scarce data on genotype–phenotype correlates. Our aim was to correlate individual RODCM genotypes with left ventricular reverse remodelling (LVRR) and clinical outcomes. Methods and results In this prospective study, a total of 386 Czech RODCM patients with symptom duration ≤6 months underwent genetic counselling and whole‐exome sequencing (WES). The presence of pathogenic (class 5) or likely pathogenic (class 4) variants in a set of 72 cardiomyopathy‐related genes was correlated with the occurrence of all‐cause death, heart transplantation, or implantation of a ventricular assist device (primary outcome) and/or ventricular arrhythmia event (secondary outcome). LVRR was defined as an improvement of left ventricular ejection fraction to >50% or ≥10% absolute increase, with a left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter ≤33 mm/m2 or ≥10% relative decrease. Median follow‐up was 41 months. RODCM was familial in 98 (25%) individuals. Class 4–5 variants of interest (VOIs) were identified in 125 (32%) cases, with 69 (18%) having a single titin‐truncating variant (TTNtv) and 56 (14%) having non‐titin (non‐TTN) VOIs. The presence of class 4–5 non‐TTN VOIs, but not of TTNtv, heralded a lower probability of 12‐month LVRR and proved to be an independent baseline predictor both of the primary and the secondary outcome. The negative result of genetic testing was a strong protective baseline variable against occurrence of life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Detection of class 4–5 VOIs in genes coding nuclear envelope proteins was another independent predictor of both study outcomes at baseline and also of life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmias after 12 months. Class 4–5 VOIs of genes coding cytoskeleton were associated with an increased risk of life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmias after baseline assessment. A positive family history of dilated cardiomyopathy alone only related to a lower probability of LVRR at 12 months and at the final follow‐up. Conclusions RODCM patients harbouring class 4–5 non‐TTN VOIs are at higher risk of progressive heart failure and life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Genotyping may improve their early risk stratification at baseline assessment.

Abstract Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has revolutionized the treatment paradigms for hematological malignancies. However, more than half of these patients cannot achieve sustainable tumor control, partially due to the inadequate potency of CAR-T cells in eradicating tumor cells. T cells are crucial components of the anti-tumor immune response, and multiple intrinsic T-cell features significantly influence the outcomes of CAR-T cell therapy. Herein, we review progressing research on T-cell characteristics that impact the effectiveness of CAR-T cells, including T-cell exhaustion, memory subsets, senescence, regulatory T-cells, the CD4+ to CD8+ T-cell ratio, metabolism, and the T-cell receptor repertoire. With comprehensive insight into the biological processes underlying successful CAR-T cell therapy, we will further refine the applications of these novel therapeutic modalities, and enhance their efficacy and safety for patients.

Abstract The important role of extracellular vesicles, which are considered key mediators of intercellular communication under physiological and pathological conditions, in various cellular processes, including those crucial for mammalian reproduction, has been increasingly studied. Tetraspanins, including CD63, are widely used as markers of extracellular vesicles, but they may also play a role in their biogenesis, cargo selection, cell targeting, and uptake. This study aimed to map the journey of the extracellular vesicle protein tetraspanin CD63 from the testis through the epididymis into mature bull sperm via an approach that included immunohistochemistry (immunofluorescence and immunoperoxidase staining), Western blot analysis, and immunoprecipitation analysis. We described the presence of CD63 in bull testicular and epididymal tissues, extracellular vesicles produced in these organs and spermatozoa during epididymal transit and after ejaculation. In addition, we revealed the nonuniform distribution of potential CD63 partners, such as CD9, integrin αV and syntenin-1, in the sperm head and tail and in extracellular vesicles. These findings contribute to understanding the complex mechanisms underlying sperm maturation and point to the possible involvement of tetraspanins and their associated partners, either as part of extracellular vesicles or sperm membranes, in these processes.

Abstract In the last decade, undiagnosed disease programs have emerged to address the significant number of individuals with suspected but undiagnosed rare genetic diseases. In our single-center study, we have launched a pilot program for pediatric patients with undiagnosed diseases in the second-largest university hospital in the Czech Republic. This study was prospectively conducted at the Department of Pediatrics at University Hospital Brno between 2020 and 2023. A total of 58 Czech patients with undiagnosed diseases were enrolled in the study. All children underwent singleton WES with targeted phenotype-driven analysis. We identified 28 variants, including 11 pathogenic, 13 likely pathogenic, and 4 VUS according to ACMG guidelines, as diagnostic of genetic diseases in 25 patients, resulting in an overall diagnostic yield of 43%. Eleven variants were novel and had not been previously reported in any public database. The overall clinical utility (actionability) enabling at least one type of change in the medical care of the patient was 76%, whereas the average number of clinical implications to individual patient care was two. Singleton WES facilitated the diagnostic process in the Czech undiagnosed pediatric population. We believe it is an effective approach to enable appropriate counseling, surveillance, and personalized clinical management.

Abstract Current knowledge of tumor biology offers many “targets” for therapeutic intervention. The molecular basis of many processes that play a role in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer has been identified. One part of colorectal cancer clinical trials is focused on testing substances in a group of patients with tumors in which the TGF-β signalling pathway is hyperactivated. The TGF-β/SMAD signalling pathway members are considered important markers; however, genetic, proteomic, or metabolomic analyses still yield controversial results. According to our results, TGF-βRII, and SMAD4 can be used in monitoring CRC progression. With increasing CRC stage, TGF-βRII expression decreases and SMAD4 expression increases. The patients with TGF-βRII expression lower than 700 pg/ml had a slightly lower survival time (28.103 months) than patients with higher TGF-βRII expression (31.620 months). Conversely, patients with SMAD4 expression lower than 200 pg/ml had a higher survival rate (30.979 months) than patients with higher expression (26.316 months). Regarding TGF-β1 expression, the patient´s survival assessment determined no significant difference between patients with high or low tissue TGF-β1 expression. A personalized approach and consideration of a wide range of factors are important when using these markers in treatment assessment.

Autonomous agents rely on sensor data to construct representations of their environments, essential for predicting future events and planning their actions. However, sensor measurements suffer from limited range, occlusions, and sensor noise. These challenges become more evident in highly dynamic environments. This work proposes a probabilistic framework to jointly infer which parts of an environment are statically and which parts are dynamically occupied. We formulate the problem as a Bayesian network and introduce minimal assumptions that significantly reduce the complexity of the problem. Based on those, we derive Transitional Grid Maps (TGMs), an efficient analytical solution. Using real data, we demonstrate how this approach produces better maps than the state-of-the-art by keeping track of both static and dynamic elements and, as a side effect, can help improve existing SLAM algorithms.

This article presents results of qualitative research (2023) and offers an interpretation of funerals in the ECCB on the basis of how the clergy themselves approach their preparation and how they perceive their role. Funeral service is seen as a ritual that, through the liturgy but also through the perceptive presence of the ministers, offers authentic participation, as well as a certain grounding in tradition and reframing of the loss experienced. Unlike civil funerals, however, the central theme is not the personality of the deceased, but the Word of God; or rather, the setting of human life in Gospel hope. According to ministers, the task is to comfort and enable bereaved to deal well with a difficult period in their lives which is easier when there is a pastoral relationship and safe space. The ministers focus on the bereaved and on their own authenticity, yet the presence of the deceased and their accompaniment is sometimes surprisingly peripheral to the whole event.

Acarospora alba, A. indistincta, A. sharnoffii, and A. tejonensis are described from California. Sarcogyne fasciculata is described from California and New Mexico. Sarcogyne coeruleonigricans is reported new for California. Sarcogyne lapponica is recognized as a synonym of Acarospora lapponica, its basionym. We report 127 described species of Acarosporaceae for North America. We verified 62 species of Acarosporaceae from California.

Abstract A wide range of portable chlorophyll meters are increasingly being used to measure leaf chlorophyll content as an indicator of plant performance, providing reference data for remote sensing studies. We tested the effect of leaf anatomy on the relationship between optical assessments of chlorophyll (Chl) against biochemically determined Chl content as a reference. Optical Chl assessments included measurements taken by four chlorophyll meters: three transmittance-based (SPAD-502, Dualex-4 Scientific, and MultispeQ 2.0), one fluorescence-based (CCM-300), and vegetation indices calculated from the 400–2500 nm leaf reflectance acquired using an ASD FieldSpec and a contact plant probe. Three leaf types with different anatomy were included: dorsiventral laminar leaves, grass leaves, and needles. On laminar leaves, all instruments performed well for chlorophyll content estimation (R2 > 0.80, nRMSE 0.90, nRMSE

Abstract Securitization of refugees and migrants is a growing global phenomenon that is well illustrated by how refugee camps have emerged as governmental technologies of control in major host countries across the world. Policymakers and the media prominently feature the migration-security connection and depict refugees as threats to internal security, linking their presence to acts of terrorism and crime. This article examines how the securitization of Somali refugees in Kenya and Ethiopia, the two main host countries for this refugee group, has hindered their formal integration and exacerbated policies of encampment in these countries. Drawing on securitization theory, we highlight the discrimination of Somali refugees in Kenya and Ethiopia by demonstrating how this refugee group is seen as a specific security threat and treated differently from other refugee groups in these countries. A history of border conflicts that shaped the relationship between refugee hosting areas and the national governments long before the advent of camps, coupled with shared Somaliness between locals and refugees in hosting areas, and the back-and-forth refugee movements across international borders have created a confluence of factors that reinforce suspicion and distrust towards Somali refugees. The article adds a normative empirical dimension to securitization theory by providing a nuanced understanding of the concept as it applies to different refugee groups in similar contexts. It also contributes to refugee and migration literature by arguing that although shared Somaliness with locals has strengthened the informal integration of Somali refugees in the two study contexts, the same ties have also provided justification for securitizing this refugee group and denied it from benefitting from progressive laws on formal integration that are being implemented for other refugee groups.

Abstract Mitochondrial ribosomes (mitoribosomes) are essential, and their function of synthesising mitochondrial proteins is universal. The core of almost all mitoribosomes is formed from a small number of long and self-folding rRNA molecules. In contrast, the mitoribosome of the apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii assembles from over 50 extremely short rRNA molecules. Here, we use cryo-EM to discover the features that enable this unusual mitoribosome to perform its function. We reveal that poly-A tails added to rRNA molecules are integrated into the ribosome, and we demonstrate their essentiality for mitoribosome formation and for parasite survival. This is a distinct function for poly-A tails, which are otherwise known primarily as stabilisers of messenger RNAs. Furthermore, while ribosomes typically consist of unique rRNA sequences, here nine sequences are used twice, each copy integrated in a different mitoribosome domain, revealing one of the mechanisms enabling the extreme mitochondrial genome reduction characteristic to Apicomplexa and to a large group of related microbial eukaryotes. Finally, several transcription factor-like proteins are repurposed to compensate for reduced or lost critical ribosomal domains, including members of the ApiAP2 family thus far considered to be DNA-binding transcription factors.

Abstract Accurate melanoma diagnosis is crucial for patient outcomes and reliability of AI diagnostic tools. We assess interrater variability among eight expert pathologists reviewing histopathological images and clinical metadata of 792 melanoma-suspicious lesions prospectively collected at eight German hospitals. Moreover, we provide access to the largest panel-validated dataset featuring dermoscopic and histopathological images with metadata. Complete agreement is achieved in 53.5% of cases (424/792), and a majority vote ( ≥ five pathologists) in 90.9% (720/792). Considerable discordance is observed for non-invasive melanomas (complete agreement in only 10/73 cases). The expert panel disagrees with the local pathologists’ and dermatologists’ diagnoses in 14.9% and 33.5% of cases, respectively. This variability highlights the diagnostic challenges of early-stage melanomas and the need to reconsider how ground truth is established in routine care and AI research. Including at least two pathologists or virtual panels may contribute to more consistent diagnostic results.

Abstract Background Bulbar function is frequently impaired in patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Although extremely important for the patient’s quality of life, it is difficult to address therapeutically. Due to bulbar dysfunction, maximum mouth opening (MMO) is suspected to be reduced in children with SMA. However, no published MMO values exist for SMA children younger than 24 months. This study presents a novel approach to measuring MMO in infants and toddlers with SMA and compares it with healthy controls. Methods Children with SMA (0–24 months) who received disease-modifying therapy at a single neuropediatric center and similarly aged healthy children were prospectively recruited. MMO was measured using a cardboard scale and a custom-designed instrument. Results A total of 115 children were included (SMA = 24, healthy controls = 91). Inter-rater reliability between two examiners was excellent (ICC = 0.987, 95% CI 0.959 to 0.995), as was the reliability between the cardboard scale and the custom-designed instrument (ICC = 0.986, 95% CI 0.968 to 0.994). A mixed linear model showed a significant increase of MMO with age, and a significantly wider mouth opening in healthy controls (p

Abstract Key message Although global changes are expected to intensify the impact of wind as a hazard, recent studies have emphasized the critical role wind plays in tree growth and development. Wind-induced swaying generates strains that the tree perceives, triggering a process known as thigmomorphogenesis. This process alters the tree’s growth patterns and wood properties to enhance its mechanical stability. Thus, wind functions not only as a hazard but also as a growth factor, enabling the tree to acclimate to wind loads and reduce its mechanical risk. Despite the significant role of thigmomorphogenesis in tree growth and carbon allocation, this process remains largely overlooked in forest ecology and management models. We strongly advocate for the integration of wind-induced strain sensing, the primary driver of thigmomorphogenesis, alongside established environmental factors in tree and forest growth models, as well as in instrumented forest stands aimed at studying the effects of environmental factors on tree growth. This crucial step is essential for a comprehensive understanding of forest growth dynamics and for informed decision-making in forest management.

This study investigates the organisation of teaching of botany at the German University in Prague and the functioning of the Institute of Botany of the Faculty of Natural Sciences at the same university, with emphasis on the financial management, staff, and technical and other facilities. The article also investigates the role of heads of the Institute of Botany in 1920–1945: they had to be not only capable scientists and teachers but above all managers. In other words, they had to be familiar with the contemporary bureaucratic machinery and deal with it in a way that secured the maximum of what was possible for their institute. This contribution also references the incorporation of botanical charts by the Archive of the Charles University.

Abstract Purpose The management of soft tissue sarcoma (STS) at reference centers with specialized multidisciplinary tumor boards (MTB) improves patient survival. The German Cancer Society (DKG) certifies sarcoma centers in German-speaking countries, promoting high standards of care. This study investigated the variability in treatment recommendations for localized STS across different German-speaking tertiary sarcoma centers. Methods In this cross-sectional case-based survey study, 5 anonymized patient cases with imaging data of localized STS were presented to MTBs of 21 German-speaking tertiary referral hospitals. Centers provided recommendations on treatment sequence and modalities, along with the consensus level within their MTB. Agreement percentages were calculated, and consensus levels were rated on a scale of 1 to 10. Results Five patient cases were discussed resulting in 105 recommendations. Agreement percentages for case 1 to 5 were 14.3%, 61.9%, 33.3%, 52.4% and 9.3%, with a median agreement percentage of 33.3%. Grouping pre- and postoperative therapies as "perioperative" and including recommendations with and without regional hyperthermia raised the median agreement to 47.6%. The mean consensus level within each center across all 5 cases was 9.5. Conclusion This first case-based analysis of inter-center agreement for STS management in German-speaking countries reveals low inter-center agreement but high intra-center consensus. Our study includes nearly all tertiary sarcoma centers in German-speaking countries, affirming its strong external validity. These findings suggest potential and clinically very relevant differences in treatment standards among sarcoma centers. Enhanced case-based exchanges and collaborative efforts are needed to reduce discrepancies and standardize the management of STS patients.

Abstract Human cancer cell lines are the mainstay of cancer research. Recent reports showed that highly mutated adult carcinoma cell lines (mainly HeLa and MCF-7) present striking diversity across laboratories and that long-term continuous culturing results in genomic/transcriptomic heterogeneity with strong phenotypical implications. Here, we hypothesize that oligomutated pediatric sarcoma cell lines mainly driven by a fusion transcription factor, such as Ewing sarcoma (EwS), are genetically and phenotypically more stable than the previously investigated adult carcinoma cell lines. A comprehensive molecular and phenotypic characterization of multiple EwS cell line strains, together with a simultaneous analysis during 12 months of continuous cell culture show that fusion-driven pediatric sarcoma cell line strains are genomically more stable than adult carcinoma strains, display remarkably stable and homogenous transcriptomes, and exhibit uniform and stable drug response. Additionally, the analysis of multiple EwS cell lines subjected to long-term continuous culture reveals that variable degrees of genomic/transcriptomic/phenotypic changes among fusion-driven cell lines, further exemplifying that the potential for reproducibility of in vitro scientific results may be rather understood as a spectrum, even within the same tumor entity.

PURPOSE: The study aimed to assess the feasibility and image quality of dual-source photon-counting detector computed tomography (PCD-CT) in evaluating small-sized coronary artery stents with respect to different acquisition modes in a phantom model. METHODS: Utilizing a phantom setup mimicking the average patient’s water-equivalent diameter, we examined six distinct coronary stents inflated in a silicon tube, with stent sizes ranging from 2.0 to 3.5 mm, applying four different CT acquisition modes of a dual-source PCD-CT scanner: “high-pitch,” “sequential,” “spiral” (each with collimation of 144 × 0.4 mm and full spectral information), and “ultra-high-resolution (UHR)” (collimation of 120 × 0.2 mm and no spectral information). Image quality and diagnostic confidence were assessed using subjective measures, including a 4-point visual grading scale (4 = excellent; 1 = non-diagnostic) utilized by two independent radiologists, and objective measures, including the full width at half maximum (FWHM). RESULTS: A total of 24 scans were acquired, and all were included in the analysis. Among all CT acquisition modes, the highest image quality was obtained for the UHR mode [median score: 4 (interquartile range (IQR): 3.67–4.00)] (P = 0.0015, with 37.5% rated as “excellent”), followed by the sequential mode [median score: 3.5 (IQR: 2.84–4.00)], P = 0.0326 and the spiral mode [median score: 3.0 (IQR: 2.53–3.47), P > 0.05]. The lowest image quality was observed for the high-pitch mode [median score: 2 (IQR: 1– 3), P = 0.028]. Similarly, diagnostic confidence for evaluating stent patency was highest for UHR and lowest for high-pitch (P < 0.001, respectively). Measurement of stent dimensions was accurate for all acquisition modes, with the UHR mode showing highest robustness (FWHM for sequential: 0.926 ± 0.061 vs. high-pitch: 0.990 ± 0.083 vs. spiral: 0.962 ± 0.085 vs. UHR: 0.941 ± 0.036, P = non-significant, respectively). CONCLUSION: Assessing small-sized coronary stents using PCD-CT technology is feasible. The UHR mode offers superior image quality and diagnostic confidence, while all modes show consistent and accurate measurements. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: These findings highlight the potential of PCD-CT technology, particularly the UHR mode, to enhance non-invasive coronary stent evaluation. Confirmatory research is necessary to influence the guidelines, which recommend cardiac CT only for stents of 3 mm or larger.

Resonant inelastic X-ray scattering (RIXS) is an ideal X-ray spectroscopy method to push the combination of energy and time resolutions to the Fourier transform ultimate limit, because it is unaffected by the core-hole lifetime energy broadening. Also, in pump–probe experiments the interaction time is made very short by the same core-hole lifetime. RIXS is very photon hungry so it takes great advantage from high-repetition-rate pulsed X-ray sources like the European XFEL. The Heisenberg RIXS instrument is designed for RIXS experiments in the soft X-ray range with energy resolution approaching the Fourier and the Heisenberg limits. It is based on a spherical grating with variable line spacing and a position-sensitive 2D detector. Initially, two gratings were installed to adequately cover the whole photon energy range. With optimized spot size on the sample and small pixel detector the energy resolution can be better than 40 meV (90 meV) at any photon energy below 1000 eV with the high-resolution (high-transmission) grating. At the SCS instrument of the European XFEL the spectrometer can be easily positioned thanks to air pads on a high-quality floor, allowing the scattering angle to be continuously adjusted over the 65–145° range. It can be coupled to two different sample interaction chambers, one for liquid jets and one for solids, each state-of-the-art equipped and compatible for optical laser pumping in collinear geometry. The measured performances, in terms of energy resolution and count rate on the detector, closely match design expectations. The Heisenberg RIXS instrument has been open to public users since the summer of 2022.

Background: Human foot morphology is essential for enhancing the fit and comfort of foot-related products in fields like orthopedics, orthotic design, and sports sciences. Objectives: This study aims to collect foot anthropometric dimensions, categorize foot types, and compare these dimensions among the Indian population. Materials and Methods: A total of 162 male volunteers (average age: 28.20 ± 12.95 years, height: 165.62 ± 6.27 cm, weight: 63.33 ± 6.70 kg) participated. Measurements were taken using a 3D foot scanner, and data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Results: The study found that 53.08% of participants had the Egyptian foot type, followed by 46.91% with the square foot type. Square foot measurements were generally higher than Egyptian feet, except for foot arch height. Significant differences (p

Abstract The inclusive jet cross section is measured as a function of jet transverse momentum p T and rapidity y. The measurement is performed using proton-proton collision data at s $$ \sqrt{s} $$ = 5.02 TeV, recorded by the CMS experiment at the LHC, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 27.4 pb −1. The jets are reconstructed with the anti-k T algorithm using a distance parameter of R = 0.4, within the rapidity interval |y| < 2, and across the kinematic range 0.06 < p T < 1 TeV. The jet cross section is unfolded from detector to particle level using the determined jet response and resolution. The results are compared to predictions of perturbative quantum chromodynamics, calculated at both next-to-leading order and next-to-next-to-leading order. The predictions are corrected for nonperturbative effects, and presented for a variety of parton distribution functions and choices of the renormalization/factorization scales and the strong coupling α S.

Abstract Background Lebanon continues to experience dramatic changes in its medical demography following the ongoing economic crisis of 2019, including brain drain of physicians across different specialties. This paper assesses the landscape of physicians in Lebanon in 2024 to highlight gaps and propose solutions. Methods A List of registered physicians is obtained from the Lebanese Order of Physicians (LOP) in Beirut and Tripoli. Lists are filtered to remove redundant data, and physicians are sorted based on their specialty and work location. Data on the number of trainee graduates at residency training programs, from 2018 to 2022, is collected from the medical schools in Lebanon. Physician density is calculated using the most recent published data on the number of populations in Lebanon. Results Of the 15,059 physicians registered in the LOP in 2023, 68.7% (10,344) are practicing specialized medicine and 31.3% (4,715) are primary care practitioners. The ratio of residency trained primary care practitioners is 7.11 per 100,000 population, sharply below the recommended ratio; in contrast, the ratio of surgeons is 70 per 100,000 population exceeding recommended ratios. The significant imbalance observed across different specialties is compounded with insufficient assessment of the residency programs to meet the actual needs of the community. Most physicians practice in the Beirut metropolitan area, thus leaving other regions in Lebanon underserved. Conclusion There is an imbalanced distribution of physicians in Lebanon based on represented specialties and practice location. We propose implementation of regulatory measures, post-graduate education programs, and financial incentive strategies to bridge this gap and meet the needs of the Lebanese people.

Abstract The current study assesses several water-based PVT system thermal absorber configurations. The thermal absorber in PVT system plays a vital role in efficiency evaluation as it lowers PV temperature and collects heat energy. The current study aims to discover and analyze advanced thermal absorber design by comparing well-received spiral circular absorbers and non-cooled PV with proposed semi-circular thermal absorbers with varying flow configurations. The proposed thermal absorber maintains surface contact with PV panels and improves heat transfer thereby yielding better thermal and electrical efficiency. Simulated PVT systems have a constant water flow rate and solar radiation. The CFD-FLUENT software was preferred to evaluate the PVT system in steady-state conditions for the investigation. Under constant ambient and inlet water temperatures of 299 K, the PV temperatures at the surface, water discharge temperature, and pressure drop were measured. It was discovered that a thermal absorber could effectively lower PV surface temperature by cooling. A zigzag thermal absorber was the most efficient since it produced the highest water outlet temperature and lowest PV surface temperature while also slightly raising the pressure drop. In comparison with a non-cooled PV system, a zigzag thermal absorber PVT system yields 11.97% more electrical efficiency, with an addition of 76.75% thermal efficiency. It was also noticed that a conventional spiral circular PVT system provides 13.5% electrical efficiency and 54.8% thermal efficiency while an electrical efficiency of 13.61% and thermal efficiency is 76.75% was obtained from a zigzag thermal absorber PVT system. The zigzag thermal absorber PVT system had a high initial investment of INR 38809.00. It showed a simple payback of 4.63 years, a 28% return on investment with a promising 2.1 Debt Service Coverage Ratio. It is advisable to consider incorporating zigzag semi-circular PVT in the prospective improvements of the PVT system.

Abstract The microgrid (MG) faces significant security issues due to the two-way power and information flow. Integrating an Energy Management System (EMS) to balance energy supply and demand in Malaysian microgrids, this study designs a Fuzzy Logic Controller (FLC) that considers intermittent renewable sources and fluctuating demand patterns. FLC offers a flexible solution to energy scheduling effectively assessed by MATLAB/Simulink simulations. The microgrid consists of PV, battery, grid, and load. A Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controller helps to extract the maximum PV output and manages the power storage by providing or absorbing excess power. System analysis is performed by observing the State of Charge (SoC)of the battery and output power for each source. The grid supplies additional power if the battery and PV fail to meet the load demand. Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) analysis compares the performance of the Proportional-Integral Controller (PIC) and FLC. The results show that the PI controller design reduces the THD in the current signal, while FLC does not reduce the THD of the grid current when used in the EMS. However, FLC offers better control over the battery’s SOC, effectively preventing overcharging and over-discharging. While PI reduces THD, FLC provides superior SOC control in a system comprising PV, battery, grid, and load. The findings demonstrate that the output current is zero when the SOC is higher than 80% or lower than 20%, signifying that no charging or discharging takes place to avoid overcharging and over-discharging. The third goal was accomplished by comparing and confirming that the grid current’s THD for the EMS designed with both the PI Controller and the FLC is maintained below 5%, following the IEEE 519 harmonic standard, using the THD block in MATLAB Simulink. This analysis highlights FLC’s potential to address demand-supply mismatches and renewable energy variability, which is crucial for optimizing microgrid performance.

Abstract Higher-end science and technology facilitate the human community with a sophisticated life despite it curses by abundant pollution. The alarming demand for sustainability pressurizes the manufacturing sector to ensure sustainable manufacturing. Since Molybdenum di sulfide (MoS2) and avocado oil are known solid and liquid lubricants respectively, hence, it is a worthwhile attempt to implement the bio-based degradable avocado oil enriched with nano Molybdenum di sulfide (nMoS2) particles as a potential machining fluid for CNC-end milling. Different proportions of avocado oil and nMoS2 were used to synthesise four distinct machining fluids to assess the individual impact of avocado oil and nMoS2 particles. The emulsification and sonication were employed to synthesise the fluids. A hybrid Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) coupled with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was followed to scrutiny the effect of novel machining fluid on machining objectives. The experimental results of physio-chemical properties revealed that avocado-rich 0.5% nMoS2 excels among others. The L16 orthogonal array experiments associated with statistical analysis explored the developed machining fluid (A6W4/0.5) that significantly impacts the machining objectives. The experimental results manifest that nearly 64.87% of surface roughness and 93.3% of tool wear have been reduced during machining in the presence of A6W4/0.5 fluid than A4W6/0.75. The improved performance of the novel machining fluid upholds its potential to replace conventional fluids and ensure green manufacturing.

Abstract As demonstrated in the section above, the stock market place is a dynamic factor, which makes it possible for traders and investors to make good decisions based on the information acquired through accurate prediction. This research aims at improving the prediction of stock market by applying a new method to Multi-attribute Group Decision making (MAGDM). MAGDM goes through a cycle of evaluating and ranking several criteria hence enhancing the decision-making aspects further. To overcome the shortcomings of prior models, some EU and FU is incorporated by combining Zadeh’s $${\hat{Z}}$$ Z ^ -numbers with Picture Fuzzy Sets (PFSs). This integration is to enhance the ability of the model to address completely unclear decisions utilizing the peculiarities of $${\hat{Z}}$$ Z ^ -numbers. To compare decisions between decision-makers, we proposed picture fuzzy $${\hat{Z}}$$ Z ^ -numbers (PF $${\hat{Z}}$$ Z ^ N) and for their aggregation, introduced picture fuzzy weighted averaging, picture fuzzy ordered weighted averaging, picture fuzzy hybrid averaging, picture fuzzy weighted geometric, picture fuzzy ordered weighted geometric and picture fuzzy hybrid geometric operators based algebraic $${\mathfrak {T}}$$ T -norm ( $${\mathfrak {T}}-N$$ T - N ) and $${\mathfrak {T}}$$ T -conorm ( $${\mathfrak {T}}-CNs$$ T - C N s ) To verify the efficiency of our suggested technique, we compare these operators with the Combined Compromised Solution (CoCoSo) model focusing on the stock market analysis. Our results, therefore, show how these operators are important in improving decision making accuracy and precision in conditions of risk. This research laid down the basis for enhancing decision-making and dealing with uncertainty in different fields especially in the application of stock market prediction. The proposed methodology can be attributed to providing a systematic and a more efficient way of dealing with uncertainty which in one way or the other has an outcome of enhancing the credibility of the decision making process in the financial sector.

Abstract Background Adequate knowledge and awareness regarding diseases are essential for appropriate, high-quality healthcare. Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS) is a non-sexually transmitted gynaecological disease that is caused by the presence of Schistosoma haematobium eggs in the female genital tract and the resulting immune response that causes tissue damage. It is estimated to affect 56 million women, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where healthcare workers (HCWs) have limited awareness and knowledge of FGS. Most migrants in Europe are female, often from SSA and therefore at risk of FGS. This study investigated awareness and knowledge of FGS among European HCWs with the aim of informing strategies to improve the management of migrant health. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey using a self-administered, closed, multilingual, anonymous online questionnaire between 1st June 2023 to 31st January 2024. Medical doctors (MDs) (n = 581) and nurses or midwives (NMs) (n = 341) working in infectiology, gynaecology, urology and general, travel, internal or occupational medicine in European countries were enrolled in the survey. A Poisson regression was used to identify factors associated with MDs’ knowledge and awareness of FGS and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) were estimated. Practices related to FGS were described using counts and proportions for a subsample of MDs aware of FGS. Results Among the 922 eligible participants, FGS awareness was 43.7% (CI95%: 39.6; 47.9) for MDs and 12.0% (CI95%: 8.8; 16.0) for NMs. FGS awareness among MDs was higher among men (50.0%; CI95%: 43.7; 56.3), working in clinics for migrants (72.0%, CI95%: 63.2; 79.7) and among infectiologists/travel medicine specialists (68.9%, CI95%: 62.2; 75.0). No knowledge was reported by 67.6% (95% CI 63.7–71.4) of MDs, while 25.3% (CI95%: 21.8; 29.0) had low and 7.1% (CI95%: 5.1; 9.5) medium knowledge. Working in healthcare for migrants was positively associated with medium knowledge (aPR = 3.49; CI95% 1.67;7.28), which was lower for general practitioners (aPR = 0.23, CI95%:0.07;0.81). Conclusions Our study highlights that HCWs in Europe might not be adequately prepared to manage FGS patients, resulting in a high risk of neglect. We believe that the promotion of existing medical networks could improve knowledge about FGS and thus the health of migrant women.

Rheumatic disorders in children include inflammatory arthritis, inflammatory bone disorders such as chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO), connective tissue disorders, and vasculitides (juvenile dermatomyositis, scleroderma). The diagnosis in these children is based on a combination of history, clinical examination, and laboratory investigations. Radiographs play an important role in children with arthritis, who have atypical presentation or for assessment of disease-related damage and differentiation from mimics. Further, radiographs also have an ancillary role in the assessment of musculoskeletal disorders such as dermatomyositis and hemophilia. This review seeks to present a detailed analysis of the specific indications and advantages of radiographs in the situations. Further, a structured reporting format for assessment of radiographs in pediatric rheumatic disorders has also been presented for the reader's reference.

Chronic noninfectious osteomyelitis or chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO), also known as chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis, is an autoinflammatory bone disorder primarily affecting the pediatric age group. Currently, it is diagnosed on the basis of clinical, laboratory, and imaging features. Imaging plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and follow-up of CNO with whole body magnetic resonance imaging (WBMRI) being the main modality. Radiographs assist in exclusion of common differential diagnoses like infections and malignancy. WBMRI aids in disease detection and exclusion of differential diagnoses, identifies additional lesions, and has a role in ascertaining the pattern of bony involvement which helps with prognostication and grading. Recent recognition of specific morphological and distribution patterns on WBMRI is increasingly allowing an upfront diagnosis of this entity to be made on imaging alone. It is also helpful for assessment of response to therapy during follow-up. This review aims to summarize the role of imaging in the evaluation of CNO, with special emphasis on WBMRI in its assessment.

Objective: To determine the accuracy of the contemporary Epstein criteria for predicting insignificant and organ-confined prostate cancer in a North African ethnic group of patients who were eligible for active surveillance based on these criteria, but had been subjected to radical prostatectomy. Patients and methods: A total of 340 North African men underwent radical prostatectomy for clinically localized prostate cancer at two academic institutions between January 2006 and September 2013. In 74 of these patients (21.76%), prostate cancer had been assumed to be insignificant based on the contemporary Epstein criteria. The radical prostatectomy specimens were analyzed in order to identify the rate of pathologically unfavorable prostate cancer, defined as either pathologic Gleason score 7–10 and/or a tumor volume > 0.5 cc, and/or non-organ-confined disease (stage ≥ pT3a and/or pN1 and/or positive surgical margins). Results: Gleason sum upgrading (≥7) was necessary in 16 (21.6%) and upstaging of the radical prostatectomy specimens in 18 patients (24.3%). Simultaneous upstaging and upgrading of the specimens was observed in 12 patients (16%). A tumor volume ≤ 0.5 cc was found in 42 patients (57%). The rate of multifocality of prostate cancer (≥2 foci) was 59.5%. The accuracy of the contemporary Epstein criteria for predicting insignificant prostate cancer was 57%, while it predicted organ-confined disease in 85%. Conclusion: The contemporary Epstein criteria used for the identification of clinically insignificant prostate cancer have been found to underestimate the real state of prostate cancer in as many as 43% of our patients. They were a good tool for predicting organ-confined rather than insignificant prostate cancer in our North African patients. Therefore, caution is advised when the decision on the implementation of active surveillance or focal therapy is solely based on these criteria.

The global decline in pollinators, particularly honeybees (Apis mellifera) and solitary bees such as Osmia bicornis, has raised significant concerns due to the increasing threats from environmental stressors and pathogen spillover. This study aimed to detect the presence of honeybee-associated viruses in an O. bicornis population in the Czech Republic and investigate the potential for viral transmission between A. mellifera and O. bicornis. Molecular techniques were used to determine the presence of five common viruses: Deformed Wing Virus (DWV), Acute Bee Paralysis Virus (ABPV), Black Queen Cell Virus (BQCV), Lake Sinai Virus (LSV) and Apis mellifera Filamentous Virus (AmFV). Sampling was done at two locations: an apiary where O. bicornis coexisted with A. mellifera and a remote site without commercial hives. The results confirmed the presence of all five viruses in O. bicornis at the apiary, while only BQCV and DWV were consistently detected in bees from the remote site. Interestingly, the viral load at the apiary increased over time, particularly, that of ABPV and DWV, indicating that proximity to A. mellifera hives facilitates virus transmission to O. bicornis. Moreover, the presence of virus was confirmed in all developmental stages of O. bicornis, from larvae to adults, indicating potential for vertical transmission. Despite high viral incidence, no visible morphological deformities were observed in O. bicornis, indicating that these viruses may exist asymptomatically in solitary bees. These findings underscore the risks posed by managed bee populations to wild pollinators and the need for further investigations into the ecological effect of viral spillover.

This study aimed to analyze the protein complex and the content of selected microelements in the grain of seven Triticum dicoccum (Schrank ex. Schübl) genotypes. Discontinuous fractionation of the grain protein complex shows that gliadins (60.69%) were the most predominant fraction. Together with glutenins, they represent storage proteins with a share of 82.30%. Individual genotypes differed significantly in the amount of cytoplasmic proteins represented by albumins and globulins. SDS-PAGE results show that the majority of proteins were fractions with a relative molecular weight of 33 kDa – 96 kDa. Using ELISA with G12 monoclonal antibody high content of celiac active proteins was recorded, specifically 58.63 – 83.45 mg/kg of grain. Triticum dicoccum is therefore not suitable for celiacs. The ICP-OES method was used to determine the content of microelements. Of the nutritionally significant microelements, Triticum dicoccum contained important K, Mg, Ca, Zn, Fe and Mn concentrations.

Amaranth belongs to one of underutilized species with a potential to overcome some of the actual challenges of modern agriculture that is a part of very unstable environmental conditions. Here, two Slovak varieties of amaranth – Zobor (A. hypochondriacus × A. hybridus) and Pribina (A. cruentus) were characterized by Conserved DNA-Derived Polymorphism (CDDP), P450-based analogue (PBA) markers and Tubulin-Based Polymorphism (TBP) and by its most abundant endophytes. CDDP as well as TBP profiles showed very similar distribution of the generated fingerprints for both of the analysed varieties. PBA profiles generated the lowest value of polymorphism. A wide spectrum of amplicons was generated by all of the techniques used in the study with the length range of PCR fragments from 80 up to the 2292 bp. The variability of the endophytic composition of the Pribina variety showed the following three most abundant genera: Endobacter, Dichotomicrobium and Burkholderia. Abiotrophia, Endobacter and Limimonas were most abundant for Zobor variety.

In the territory of the Listové Lake Nature Reserve research on the family Syrphidae was conducted on two study areas during the years 2021 and 2022. Over the observed period, a total of 1108 individuals belonging to 29 species were captured and classified. Based on the ecosoziological assessment, Neoascia interrupta and Parhelophilus versicolor belonged to vulnerable species, and were abundant in the study area. Among the species preferring the wetland habitat, Parhelophilus versicolor showed eudominant representation during both years. According to the biological assessment, it can be stated that both study areas were relatively balanced in terms of species diversity, the number of vulnerable species, and the total number of species. However, in terms of ecological significance, the study area located in the southern part of the reserve received a higher rating.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the amount of fat content in milk extender and comparison with the others semen extender and evaluate their effect on ram sperm motility and velocity parameters during the liquid storage of 5 °C for an evaluation period of 72 hours. The semen samples were collected from three Šumava sheep rams (4 years old) using an artificial vagina and were diluted by physiological solution, 0.5% fat milk, 1.5% fat milk and AndroMed® extenders with a dilution 1:100 and were assessed by 0, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 72 hours at 5 °C. Sperm motility and velocity parameters were analyzed by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). The experiment was carried out in 5 replicates. The selected parameters motility, progressive motility, velocity and between storage time (P

One of the phenomena that predicts poorer educational outcomes for young people, as well as poorer outcomes in other areas, is certainly the phenomenon of complex needs, i.e., challenges that cut across different domains, often combining psychosocial wellbeing, physical and mental health, socioeconomic background, the burden of different challenges on the young persons’ family, a non-dominant ethnic background, learning difficulties and other aspects. A key challenge with complex needs is the inability of systems (educational and others) to respond appropriately to them, resulting in young people being sent from door to door and being excluded, as well as other adverse responses for both parties (young people and services, educational and others). In order to understand the emergence of complex needs or multiple vulnerabilities, we need to analyse them using an intersectional perspective. In this paper, data from a national Slovenian study entitled Support Networks for Young People in Psychosocial Distress are analysed using a subsample of 32 young people from the overall sample of 203 interviewees. The subsample represents young people whose interviews show the greatest clustering of distress in various contexts of life. The interviews with the selected participants are qualitatively analysed using content analysis based on a scheme of key social systems: school/education, family, peer networks, local community and other (formal) support services. All of these systems are analysed in terms of being supportive or threatening according to the perception of the young person. In all of the systems, more threatening than supportive aspects were reported by young people with complex needs. An analysis of both kinds of factors can help us to think about the changes needed in educational and other systems in order to make them more responsive to the needs of particularly vulnerable young people.

Abstract Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is an important crop for the future challenges of food and nutrient security. Deep characterization of quinoa diversity is needed to support the agronomic improvement and adaptation of quinoa as its worldwide cultivation expands. In this study, we report the construction of chromosome-scale genome assemblies of eight quinoa accessions covering the range of phenotypic and genetic diversity of both lowland and highland quinoas. The assemblies were produced from a combination of PacBio HiFi reads and Bionano Saphyr optical maps, with total assembly sizes averaging 1.28 Gb with a mean N50 of 71.1 Mb. Between 43,733 and 48,564 gene models were predicted for the eight new quinoa genomes, and on average, 66% of each quinoa genome was classified as repetitive sequences. Alignment between the eight genome assemblies allowed the identification of structural rearrangements including inversions, translocations, and duplications. These eight novel quinoa genome assemblies provide a resource for association genetics, comparative genomics, and pan-genome analyses for the discovery of genetic components and variations underlying agriculturally important traits.