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• The residual stress and microhardness of shot-peened nickel-based superalloys are tested. • The non-monotonicity of micromechanical property distribution induced by shot peening is pointed out. • The microstructure changes of shot-peened GH4169 superalloy are analyzed at the nanoscale. • The GH4169 superalloy undergoes plastic deformation through dislocations and nano twins. The residual stress field induced by surface strengthening processes such as mechanical shot peening and other forms of plastic deformation does not generally exhibit a simple "monotonic" distribution trend. Some researchers have analyzed this fact from a mechanical perspective based on Hertz theory. However, the micro/nano-scale microstructural changes corresponding to the distribution of residual stress fields still appear to be lacking. In this study, we focused on a widely used material in aviation manufacturing, namely nickel-based superalloy GH4169, as our experimental material. We subjected GH4169 alloy to mechanical strengthening treatment using a shot peening intensity of 0.25 mmA, followed by quantitative testing of micromechanical performance indicators such as microhardness and residual stress. To thoroughly investigate the relationship between micromechanical properties and microstructure changes, we utilized transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to observe and analyze shot-peened materials at different depths. Our findings revealed that the most severe microstructural distortion induced by mechanical shot peening in GH4169 alloy was likely to occur within a depth range of 25 to 75 µm. This observation aligns with the actual phenomenon that the maximum microhardness and maximum residual compressive stress did not manifest on the outermost surface of the material. By presenting a detailed analysis of deformation defects such as dislocations, stacking faults, and twinning in different depths of mechanically strengthened layers, our study contributes to a deeper understanding and practical application of post-processing technologies based on plastic deformation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities across the world are seeking to establish more sustainable urban environments and safer and greener transport systems. This with a view to reduce road accidents, tackle congestion, reduce air and noise pollution and improve overall public health and liveability. Within these aspirations, improving the walking and cycling environments and reducing road accident injuries among these vulnerable road users would serve to support and encourage greener modes of transport and more sustainable cities. Pedestrians and cyclists are disproportionally often the victims of road accidents. As vulnerable groups, understanding the factors that influence the number and that affect the severity of injury, can greatly contribute to several targets and commitments which cities and even countries have adhered to in the past whether for health, environment or societal goals. Research in island contexts are particularly important due to the increase in car dependence across a number of developing and developed island states and the increasing risk exposure for pedestrians and cyclists. This study examines the pedestrian and cycling road accident injuries in Malta using an extensive database of injuries for the period 2005 and 2021 and analyse, using a Poisson panel random effects model, the relationship between local population, urban land use characteristics and driving behaviour, and how they affect injury severity. The analysis is done at local level using a number of variables in the model to determine effects. These include the population of each locality, local land use characteristics such as the presence of (main) commercial activity, a health centre or an industrial estate that have an impact on the number of those walking and cycling, and the number of speeding contraventions issued over time in various locations around the islands as a proxy for driving behaviour. Furthermore, the study presents the islands case study and describes road accident injury trends over time and in context. Findings point towards a link between slight and grievous injuries and commercial, health and industrial activities. Strong links are also found with population changes. Speeding is only linked to grievous injuries. Fatal accidents are related to the location of industrial activity and population. The paper concludes with some recommendations to improve road safety conditions for pedestrians and cyclists.

The continuous contact between blood and the foreign surface of the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) circuit contributes to hemostatic, inflammatory, and other physiological disturbances observed during ECMO. Although previous studies have extensively investigated blood samples from patients on ECMO, cell adsorption to the ECMO circuit as an additional factor that could potentially influence clinical outcomes, has largely been overlooked. Here we provide a detailed immunofluorescence (IF) protocol designed to characterize cellular binding on ECMO circuits collected from patients. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuits were collected from three pediatric patients and an albumin primed-only ECMO circuit was used as control. Circuit samples from five different sites within each ECMO circuit were collected and processed for the IF protocol. CD14 and CD42a antibodies were used to identify platelets and leukocytes bound to each ECMO circuit sample and images captured using inverted fluorescence microscopy. The protocol enables the comprehensive characterization of platelet and leukocyte binding to ECMO circuits collected from patients, which could in turn extend our knowledge of the characteristics of circuit binding and may provide guidance for improved ECMO circuit design.

Abstract I argue that the separation of the conjoined Attard twins of Manchester was not morally justified as it involved intentionally internally affecting (“invading”) the body of the weaker twin without permission and without any advantage to her.

The nickel-based superalloy is a critical material in aero-engines, where enhanced durability and resistance to stress relaxation are essential. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a high-energy composite modification technique, applied through dual surface friction methods, to induce residual stress and examines the stability of this stress under medium-temperature aging conditions. GH4169 was selected and a foundational study was conducted to quantify residual stress relaxation under medium-temperature aging treatment. The surface strengthening method used was a high-energy composite modification known for its significant post-treatment effects. The specific temperatures for medium-temperature aging treatment were 425 °C and 650 °C. The test results of the residual stress field confirmed the phenomenon of residual stress relaxation under the influence of temperature. Correspondingly, the different degrees of stress relaxation caused by varying aging treatment conditions are closely related to the microstructural changes within the material. Areas with a higher number of annealing twins exhibited a more pronounced degree of residual stress relaxation. By elucidating the link between stress relaxation and microstructural changes, this research offers a theoretical foundation for optimizing surface-strengthening processes and setting optimal operational temperatures for advanced structural materials.

An interview with hockey player Teneal Attard of the Hockeyroo's team of Australia is presented. When asked about the highlight of her career, she refers to her experience at the Beijing Olympic Games in China wherein she will never forget playing on the world stage and walking into the Birds Nest at the opening ceremony. She says that training for international competition needs commitment, determination and hard work. She also relates that she manages a Jetts gym in Riovervale, West Australia.

A constitutional disease‐causing variant (DCV) in the SMAD4or BMPR1Agenes is present in 40%–60% of patients with juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS). The aim of this study was to characterize the clinical course and polyp burden in children with DCV‐positive JPS compared to DCV‐negative JPS. Demographic, clinical, genetic, and endoscopic data of children with JPS were compiled from eight international centers in the ESPHGAN/NASPGHAN polyposis working group. A total of 124 children with JPS were included: 69 (56%) DCV‐negative and 55 (44%) DCV‐positive (53% SMAD4and 47% BMPR1A) with a median (interquartile range) follow‐up of 4 (2.8–6.4) years. DCV‐positive children were diagnosed at an older age compared to DCV‐negative children [12 (8–15.7) years vs. 5 (4–7) years, respectively, p< 0.001], had a higher frequency of family history of polyposis syndromes (50.9% vs. 1.4%, p< 0.001), experienced a greater frequency of extraintestinal manifestations (27.3% vs. 5.8%, p< 0.001), and underwent more gastrointestinal surgeries (16.4% vs. 1.4%, p= 0.002). The incidence rate ratio for the development of new colonic polyps was 6.15 (95% confidence interval 3.93–9.63, p< 0.001) in the DCV‐positive group compared to the DCV‐negative group, with an average of 12.2 versus 2 new polyps for every year of follow‐up. There was no difference in the burden of polyps between patients with SMAD4and BMPR1Amutations. This largest international cohort of pediatric JPS revealed that DCV‐positive and DCV‐negative children exhibit distinct clinical phenotype. These findings suggest a potential need of differentiated surveillance strategies based upon mutation status. Juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS) can be diagnosed based upon identification of a disease‐causing variant (DCV) in the SMAD4or BMPR1Agenes.These variants are identified in up to 40%–60% of the patients and inherited in an autosomal dominant manner.There are limited data regarding phenotypic differences based on the presence or absence of a DCV.Surveillance guidelines for JPS in children fail to differentiate between DCV‐positive and DCV‐negative patients. Juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS) can be diagnosed based upon identification of a disease‐causing variant (DCV) in the SMAD4or BMPR1Agenes. These variants are identified in up to 40%–60% of the patients and inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. There are limited data regarding phenotypic differences based on the presence or absence of a DCV. Surveillance guidelines for JPS in children fail to differentiate between DCV‐positive and DCV‐negative patients. DCV‐positive and DCV‐negative children exhibit distinct clinical phenotypes.DCV‐positive children have a higher burden of colonic polyps than DCV‐negative children, suggesting the need for surveillance strategies based upon mutation status. DCV‐positive and DCV‐negative children exhibit distinct clinical phenotypes. DCV‐positive children have a higher burden of colonic polyps than DCV‐negative children, suggesting the need for surveillance strategies based upon mutation status.

The human population is expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050. One of the main challenges will be the demand for food and food security. With time farmland is being lost especially due to environmental change and anthropogenic activities. There is huge competition for the utilization of farmland for human food production, animal feed production, energy production and other sectors that are utilizing the farmland. To minimize the competition between human food and animal feed production, in terms of land use, alternative growing systems, such as hydroponics, may serve to address this problem. Hydroponics is a technology of sprouting grains or growing plants in a soilless environment, with only water or nutrient-rich solution. The present review aims to provide an evaluation of hydroponicallysprouted maize and barley in food producing animals, underlining benefits and limitations in its application.

No study has explored whether availability of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is adequate and equitable across US children's hospitals. We hypothesized that ERCP availability and utilization differs by geography and patient factors. Healthcare encounter data from 2009 to 2019 on children with pancreatic and biliary diseases from the Pediatric Health Information System were analyzed. ERCP availability was defined as treatment at a hospital that performed pediatric ERCP during the year of service. From 2009 to 2019, 37,946 children (88,420 encounters) had a potential pancreatic or biliary indication for ERCP; 7066 ERCPs were performed. The commonest pancreatic diagnoses leading to ERCP were chronic (47.2%) and acute pancreatitis (43.2%); biliary diagnoses were calculus (68.3%) and obstruction (14.8%). No ERCP was available for 25.0% of pancreatic encounters and 8.1% of biliary encounters. In multivariable analysis, children with public insurance, rural residence, or of Black race were less likely to have pancreatic ERCP availability; those with rural residence or Asian race were less likely to have biliary ERCP availability. Black children or those with public insurance were less likely to undergo pancreatic ERCP where available. Among encounters for calculus or obstruction, those of Black race or admitted to hospitals in the West were less likely to undergo ERCP when available. One‐in‐four children with pancreatic disorders and one‐in‐12 with biliary disorders may have limited access to ERCP. We identified racial and geographic disparities in availability and utilization of ERCP. Further studies are needed to understand these differences to ensure equitable care. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is effective for treating pancreaticobiliary disorders in children and adolescents.ERCP remains a highly specialized procedure that may not be available to all patients, an issue partly attributable to equity of distribution of pediatric specialists trained to perform ERCP. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is effective for treating pancreaticobiliary disorders in children and adolescents. ERCP remains a highly specialized procedure that may not be available to all patients, an issue partly attributable to equity of distribution of pediatric specialists trained to perform ERCP. A large proportion of children with pancreatic or biliary disorders are admitted to a hospital without in‐house ERCP availability.In hospitals where ERCP is offered, compared to children from other races, Black children are less likely to undergo ERCP for pancreatic diagnoses, and for biliary calculi or obstruction.Children with public insurance are less likely to undergo pancreatic ERCP at centers that perform ERCP. A large proportion of children with pancreatic or biliary disorders are admitted to a hospital without in‐house ERCP availability. In hospitals where ERCP is offered, compared to children from other races, Black children are less likely to undergo ERCP for pancreatic diagnoses, and for biliary calculi or obstruction. Children with public insurance are less likely to undergo pancreatic ERCP at centers that perform ERCP.

Layered stainless steel samples were manufactured using Plasma Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing by depositing alternating layers of two dissimilar stainless steels onto an AISI 316L substrate. The selected materials were the M430 ferritic and M316L austenitic stainless steels. Comprehensive microstructural characterization in different areas, including interfaces between the two different materials, was achieved through optical microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction. Results revealed good weldability among the two-layered steels and on the substrate. Also, a gradient duplex structure was observed mainly at the layer interfaces, suggesting a nuanced blending of properties in the deposited zone. To establish a direct correlation with mechanical properties in the observed structures, macro and micro-hardness tests were conducted along the cross-section. These tests evidenced the presence of a harder phase along the interface compared to the individual materials. The microstructural analysis corroborated the presence of mixing between phases in conjunction with some areas of delta ferrite.

Accidental foreign body ingestion (FBI) is a common pediatric referral concern. In contrast, recurrent and intentional FBI (RIFBI) is infrequent and associated with greater endoscopic and surgical intervention in adults. Although pediatric guidelines exist for FBI, the risk and therapeutic implications of RIFBI are not addressed. An anonymous international survey on pediatric gastroenterologist experience with RIFBI was distributed. A 33‐item REDCap© survey was distributed via email to pediatric gastroenterologists identified through mailing and email lists obtained from pediatric gastroenterology professional organizations. During 9−12/2021 we accrued 202 completed surveys. Respondents were from 27 countries and across the career span. Eighty percent reported experience with RIFBI; 74% reported seeing ≤ 3 patients with RIFBI within the past 24 months and 4% reported seeing ≥ 6. Of those who treated RIFBI, 38% reported an average number of annual ingestions per patient was ≥5. Frequent morbidity but not mortality was reported. Half reported adherence to FBI guidelines. Later‐career endoscopists treated RIFBI more aggressively than accidental ingestion. Ninety‐six percent noted that patients with RIFBI had psychiatric comorbidities. Providers at academic medical centers reported referring to behavioral health more than those in other settings. Most gastroenterologists surveyed reported encountering RFBI several times a year and in patients with psychiatric comorbidities. Greater likelihood of adverse outcomes associated with endoscopy was reported. Most reported referral to behavioral health and few had RIFBI management protocols. A broader spectrum of psychologic comorbidities in the pediatric population with RIFBI, notably depression and autism spectrum disorder, were reported. RIFBI in adults is associated with psychiatric comorbidity, increased treatment complications, and high treatment costLittle is known about RIFBI in pediatrics and how intentional ingestion impacts endoscopic management RIFBI in adults is associated with psychiatric comorbidity, increased treatment complications, and high treatment cost Little is known about RIFBI in pediatrics and how intentional ingestion impacts endoscopic management Our international survey suggests that while prevalence of RIFBI in pediatrics is low, reoccurrence is high (e.g., 1/3 respondents reported seeing RIFBI patients presenting with ≥5 ingestions annually)Psychiatric comorbidities, including multiple morbidities, are overwhelmingly present in pediatric RIFBIHigh rates of morbidity are reported in treatment of RIFBICoordinated multidisciplinary care, including behavioral health, may help to reduce recurrence Our international survey suggests that while prevalence of RIFBI in pediatrics is low, reoccurrence is high (e.g., 1/3 respondents reported seeing RIFBI patients presenting with ≥5 ingestions annually) Psychiatric comorbidities, including multiple morbidities, are overwhelmingly present in pediatric RIFBI High rates of morbidity are reported in treatment of RIFBI Coordinated multidisciplinary care, including behavioral health, may help to reduce recurrence

The governance of artificial intelligence (AI) has recently emerged as a field of research and practice, but the structural and functional components of AI governance (AIG) systems are not well understood by researchers and practitioners. To address that gap, we apply service system analysis methods and thematic analysis methods to develop a novel framework for conceptualizing and analyzing AI governance systems across multiple scales of activity, including international, national, subnational, sectoral, and organizational systems of governance. We apply our analysis framework to an empirical study of Canada’s national AIG system. Drawing upon qualitative data collected from 20 leaders of Canadian AIG initiatives and subject matter experts, we identify and discuss the actors, impacts, resources, networks, activities, logics, norms, and rules involved in structuring and operating a national AIG system, using Canada as a case study. Based on our findings, we propose three directions for future research: (1) conduct additional analysis of the 610 topics in our dataset, (2) further investigate institutional and ecosystem-level structures and dynamics in Canada’s national AIG system, (3) apply our framework, data, and findings to study AIG systems in other contexts. We also outline four strategic objectives for strengthening Canada’s AIG system: (1) implement new collaboration and coordination mechanisms, (2) create guidance for designing and implementing participatory AIG initiatives, (3) expand access to key resources needed for effective AIG practices, (4) advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in AIG activities.

Aim: Diabesity, the co-occurrence of diabetes and obesity, presents a global health crisis. Understanding its prevalence, associated risk factors, and mortality outcomes is crucial for effective public health interventions. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of diabesity and diabetes, assess associated risk factors, and analyze mortality outcomes over a 7-year period in the diabetogenic country of Malta. Subject and methods: A nationwide health examination survey (2014–16) was conducted involving 3947 adults aged 18–70 years. Sociodemographic data, anthropometric measurements, and blood samples were collected. Relationships between different adiposity indices were explored. Mortality data was obtained by cross-referencing with the national mortality register. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, logistic regression, and Cox proportional hazard models. Results: Prevalence of obesity was 34.08%, diabetes 10.31%, and diabesity 5.78%. Sociodemographic characteristics were similar across all three cohorts. Multivariable regression identified increasing age (OR 1.10 CI95% 1.07–1.12; p≤ 0.001), male gender (OR 0.53 CI95% 0.30–0.93; p= 0.03), and low educational level (OR 2.19 CI95% 1.39–3.45; p= 0.001) as significant predictors of diabesity. Only diabetes showed a significant increase in mortality risk (HR 3.15 CI95% 1.31–7.62; p= 0.02) after adjustment, with gender (HR 3.17 CI95% 1.20–8.37) and body adiposity index (HR 1.08 CI95% 1.01–1.16) also significant (p≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Diabesity represents a substantial public health challenge in Malta, with implications for mortality outcomes. Targeted interventions addressing sociodemographic disparities and promoting healthy lifestyles are essential to mitigate its impact. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive healthcare strategies and policy initiatives to combat diabesity and reduce associated mortality rates.

The article reports on the 488 GT3 Ferrari automobile race car to be used by Marco Attard in the Silverstone 500 race car event on June 12, 2016.

ABSTRACTPrevious research demonstrates links between student social identification, perceived learning norms, learning approaches and academic outcomes and indicates the value of bolstering student social identification in higher education settings. The current study aimed to examine whether the models identified in this previous research replicated in a fully online environment. This is critical knowledge in the context of the industry-wide debate on the gains and losses of online university. Self-report survey data (N = 112), e-learning analytics and grades were used to examine student social identification, perceptions, behaviours, and outcomes over a 4-month period of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results were unexpected: previous models failed to replicate in our data. Exploratory analysis identified three ways forward: examination of student learning activity outside of institutionally provided online contexts, revisiting the use of SPQ as a measure of learning approach, and examining student social interactions and identification in a social media-rich online environment.

Understanding people’s travel behavior is key to creating spaces that discourage car use, especially for short, walkable distances. The scope of this study is to understand better people’s propensity to use a car rather than walk for short-distance trips by focusing on the concept of perceived exertion (PE). A comparison is performed of two case study locations: Malta, a Euro-Mediterranean island with a high car dependency, and the Netherlands, a European country with a high active mode share of walking and cycling. Surveys were distributed to two university populations in each of the case study locations to analyze the parallels and variations in travel behavior and perceptions. Applying a mediation model analysis, the results show a partial mediation (Malta) and a full mediation (Netherlands) of PE in the relationship between car use frequency (CF) and distance threshold (DT), that is, the distance people are willing to walk rather than use a car. The mean DT for walking varied significantly between the two samples, resulting in 15.18 min (1.2 km or 0.7 mi) in the Netherlands and 17.99 min (1.4 km or 0.9 mi) in Malta, despite the comparatively larger active mode share in the Netherlands. Complementing this, the ordinal logistic models for the two countries indicate that those that perceive walking for short trips to be more effortful and those with a high CF are less inclined to walk long distances. Findings are compared with previous research, and policy-relevant suggestions based on these findings are provided.

The article reports on the plan of automobile racing drivers Marco Attard and Leo Machitski to return to Barwell Motorsport racing team to compete in the Blancpain Endurance Cup 2016.

The article reports on the plan of automobile racing driver Marco Attard to quit the British Touring Car Championship following the urgency of championship chiefs to cut insonsistency in their decision making and to ensure that correct calls are made.

Dihydrogen (H2) is an important intermediate in anaerobic microbial processes, and concentrations are tightly controlled by thermodynamic limits of consumption and production. However, recent studies reported unusual H2accumulation in permeable marine sediments under anoxic conditions, suggesting decoupling of fermentation and sulfate reduction, the dominant respiratory process in anoxic permeable marine sediments. Yet, the extent, prevalence and potential triggers for such H2accumulation and decoupling remain unknown. We surveyed H2concentrations in situ at different settings of permeable sand and found that H2accumulation was only observed during a coral spawning event on the Great Barrier Reef. A flume experiment with organic matter addition to the water column showed a rapid accumulation of hydrogen within the sediment. Laboratory experiments were used to explore the effect of oxygen exposure, physical disturbance and organic matter inputs on H2accumulation. Oxygen exposure had little effect on H2accumulation in permeable sediments suggesting both fermenters and sulfate reducers survive and rapidly resume activity after exposure to oxygen. Mild physical disturbance mimicking sediment resuspension had little effect on H2accumulation; however, vigorous shaking led to a transient accumulation of H2and release of dissolved organic carbon suggesting mechanical disturbance and cell destruction led to organic matter release and transient decoupling of fermenters and sulfate reducers. In summary, the highly dynamic nature of permeable sediments and its microbial community allows for rapid but transient decoupling of fermentation and respiration after a C pulse, leading to high H2levels in the sediment.

Recent Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) and European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) judgments imply that some form of ‘European Intervention’ providing for a coordinated approach towards the determination, and quantification of tax penalties has become necessary. Disproportionate tax penalties and concurrent penalties pose a serious hurdle to achieving the European Commission’s political mission to put a tax system in place ‘where everybody pays their fair share’ of taxation. Given current judicial trends, the situation calls for the creation of an ad hoc taxpayers’ charter which imposes red lines for tax penalty regimes. Matters such as ultra duplum, minimus vitalis, non bis in idem, ceiling rates for cumulative penalties and the coordination of punitive measures call for an element of harmonization.

Behavior analysts are not recognized or regulated as a distinct profession in Europe. For the most part, European behavior analysts adhered to the standards set by the U.S.-based Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). However, the BACB certification has not been recognized officially in any European jurisdiction. The recent decision by the BACB to discontinue eligibility of non-U.S. residents to apply for the BCBA exam by the end of 2022 has brought the issue of professional regulation outside of the United States into sharp focus. This article offers a snapshot in time of professional recognition of behavior analysts in 21 European countries. It stems from the Erasmus+ funded EuroBA project and its Professional Advisory Group (PAG). The EuroBA project aims to develop common standards and competences for behavior analysts to facilitate national regulation and mutual recognition across Europe.

La dimensione orante della Parola di Dio in Maria, con le sue connotazioni d’inserimento nella storia, concentrazione cristologica e approfondimento di vita che essa comporta, si distingue come un rispondere all’Altro che la ama, come abbandono fiducioso e gratuito, un’attesa attenta, fedele e perseverante all’amoroso influsso di Dio. Tale esperienza di profonda e delicata audizione, in cui Dio parla del Figlio al suo cuore, genera in lei una forma di diminuzione di se stessa, per essere attenta e guardare tutto con gli stessi occhi di Dio.

Polypectomy is the most common therapeutic endoscopic intervention in children. Management of sporadic juvenile polyps is limited to polypectomy to resolve symptoms, whereas polyposis syndromes pose a multidisciplinary challenge with broader ramifications. In preparation for polypectomy, there are key patient, polyp, endoscopy unit, and provider characteristics that factor into the likelihood of success. Younger age and multiple medical comorbidities increase the risk of adverse outcomes, classified as intraoperative, immediate postoperative, and delayed postoperative complications. Novel techniques, including cold snare polypectomy, can significantly decrease adverse events but a more structured training process for polypectomy in pediatric gastroenterology is needed.

Il n’existe pas de critères validés de réussite de l’initiation d’une pression positive continue (PPC) pour syndrome d’apnée du sommeil (SAS). Notre objectif était d’évaluer la satisfaction des cliniciens quant à l’initiation de la PPC.

Antimicrobial peptides are an important class of membrane-active peptides that can provide alternatives or complements to classic antibiotics. Among the many classes of AMPs, the histidine-rich family is of particular interest since they may induce pH-sensitive interactions with cell membranes. The AMP caerin 1.1 (Cae-1), from Australian tree frogs, has three histidine residues, and thus we studied the pH dependence of its interactions with model cell membranes. Using NMR spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulations, we showed that Cae-1 induced greater perturbation of the lipid dynamics and water penetrations within the membrane interior in an acidic environment compared with physiological conditions. Using 31P solid-state NMR, the packing, chemical environment, and dynamics of the lipid headgroup were monitored. 2H solid-state NMR showed that Cae-1 ordered the acyl chains of the hydrophobic core of the bilayer. These results supported the molecular dynamics data, which showed that Cae-1 was mainly inserted within the lipid bilayer for both neutral and negatively charged membranes, with the charged residues pulling the water and phosphate groups inward. This could be an early step in the mechanism of membrane disruption by histidine-rich antimicrobial peptides and indicated that Cae-1 acts via a transmembrane mechanism in bilayers of neutral and anionic phospholipid membranes, especially in acidic conditions.

Apart from the numerous social, economic, and environmental impacts of car dependence, the time people spend sitting in motorised vehicles has been identified as a sedentary behaviour that can negatively impact people's physical and psychological health. The climate breakdown and the COVID-19 pandemic have continued to expose the fragility and vulnerability of the urban environment and the imminent need for response, management, and radical re-thinking through innovation, especially within the transport sector. The incidence of the COVID-19 pandemic has also reiterated the need for urban centres to re-establish a sense of community, extend the benefits reaped from reduced motorised transport usage and boost small/medium-size businesses through the provision of active travel spaces. This paper investigates the role of pedestrian-focused intervention to encourage walking rather than car use for short-distance trips, within the context of the car-dependent small island state of Malta. The research includes the use of semi-structured interviews with a broad range of stakeholders to develop a virtual platform for citizen participation. The platform is an interactive space for participants to identify barriers that discourage walking and explore and evaluate options that encourage walking as a mode of transport. A discussion of preliminary findings sheds light on the impact of pedestrian interventions that encourage active travel and contribute policy-relevant outcomes based on the perceptions and direct feedback from citizens and stakeholders alike.

The article reports that the professional shooter Joe Attard has secured a top position by shooting a 95 in the 12 gauge Central Jersey shooting event in Jackson Township, New Jersey.

The article reports that Joe Attard won the 20 gauge event at Central Jersey Rifle and Pistol Club.

Background: Several definitions have attempted to stratify metastatic castrate-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) into low and high-volume states. However, at this time, comparison of these definitions is limited. Here we aim to compare definitions of metastatic volume in mCSPC with respect to clinical outcomes and mutational profiles. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients with biochemically recurrent or mCSPC whose tumors underwent somatic targeted sequencing. 294 patients were included with median follow-up of 58.3 months. Patients were classified into low and high-volume disease per CHAARTED, STAMPEDE, and two numeric (≤3 and ≤5) definitions. Endpoints including radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS), time to development of castration resistance (tdCRPC), and overall survival (OS) were evaluated with Kaplan–Meier survival curves and log-rank test. The incidence of driver mutations between definitions were compared. Results: Median OS and tdCRPC were shorter for high-volume than low-volume disease for all four definitions. In the majority of patients (84.7%) metastatic volume classification did not change across all four definitions. High volume disease was significantly associated with worse OS for all four definitions (CHAARTED: HR 2.89; p&lt; 0.01, STAMPEDE: HR 3.82; p&lt; 0.01, numeric ≤3: HR 4.67; p&lt; 0.01, numeric ≤5: HR 3.76; p&lt; 0.01) however, were similar for high (p= 0.95) and low volume (p= 0.79) disease across all four definitions. Those with discordant classification tended to have more aggressive clinical behavior and mutational profiles. Patients with low-volume disease and TP53mutation experienced a more aggressive course with rPFS more closely mirroring high-volume disease. Conclusions: The spectrum of mCSPC was confirmed across four different metastatic definitions for clinical endpoints and genetics. All definitions were generally similar in classification of patients, outcomes, and genetic makeup. Given these findings, the simplicity of numerical definitions might be preferred, especially when integrating metastasis directed therapy. Incorporation of tumor genetics may allow further refinement of current metastatic definitions.

This paper describes the salient features of a hybrid drawing process driven by techno-human relations. The project consists in the tracing of historical ship graffiti with my eye movements while wearing a contemporary eye-tracking headset. It forms part of my ongoing artistic practice of drawing with my eyes with an eye-tracking device, adapting and adopting an attitude of drawing-withthe technology. The practice takes shape by means of an interdisciplinary approach looking at the transformative capacities of human–nonhuman relations, as the agency of off-the-shelf technology contributes to the drawing process. Eye-tracking data is developed into virtual drawings and consequently pen-plotted onto slabs of globigerina limestone. The project specifically looks at ship graffiti found on the facades of wayside chapels on the Mediterranean island of Malta, where the tradition of etching ships in stone as ex-votoscan possibly date back to the 1500s. Thus, the outcome of the project bridges historical imagery with contemporary drawing, resulting in a multifaceted interpretation through a play on words while converging interdisciplinary dialogues.

AbstractThis case-control study sought to investigate whether thyroid autoimmunity is significantly associated with identifiable and potentially modifiable environmental factors. A total of 324 individuals were recruited: 164 cases (with positive thyroid peroxidase antibodies [TPO-Ab] and/or thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor antibodies [TSH-R Ab]) and 160 controls (negative antibodies) who had been screened for thyroid autoimmunity within the previous 12 months. A questionnaire sought information on drug, social, and reproductive history, stress, and iodine intake, while blood specimens were collected to measure glycosylated hemoglobin, thyroid function, TPO-Ab/TSH-R Ab status, 25-hydroxyvitamin D level, and hepatitis C antibody status. Both TPO-Ab–positive and TSH-R Ab–positive individuals were exposed to a higher amount of smoking pack-years (P = 0.038 and 0.037, respectively). No significant predictors of TSH-R Ab positivity were identified on multivariate regression analysis. The odds for TPO-Ab positivity was increased by female gender (odds ratio [OR] 2.815, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.387, 5.714; P = 0.004) and discontinuation of smoking (OR 2.367, 95% CI, 1.213, 4.621; P = 0.012), while birth in winter (OR 0.470, 95% CI, 0.253, 0.871; P = 0.017) and higher intake of iodine-rich foods (OR 0.864, 95% CI, 0.761, 0.981; P = 0.024) decreased the odds for TPO-Ab development. Therefore, avoidance of ever starting smoking and correction of iodine deficiency may help protect against TPO-Ab development.

AbstractWe present solutions to nonzero-sum games of optimal stopping for Brownian motion in [0, 1] absorbed at either 0 or 1. The approach used is based on the double partial superharmonic characterisation of the value functions derived in Attard (2015). In this setting the characterisation of the value functions has a transparent geometrical interpretation of 'pulling two ropes' above 'two obstacles' which must, however, be constrained to pass through certain regions. This is an extension of the analogous result derived by Peskir (2009), (2012) (semiharmonic characterisation) for the value function in zero-sum games of optimal stopping. To derive the value functions we transform the game into a free-boundary problem. The latter is then solved by making use of the double smooth fit principle which was also observed in Attard (2015). Martingale arguments based on the Itô–Tanaka formula will then be used to verify that the solution to the free-boundary problem coincides with the value functions of the game and this will establish the Nash equilibrium.

Men with high-risk non-metastatic prostate cancer are treated with androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) for 3 years, often combined with radiotherapy. We analysed new data from two randomised controlled phase 3 trials done in a multiarm, multistage platform protocol to assess the efficacy of adding abiraterone and prednisolone alone or with enzalutamide to ADT in this patient population.

Aquatic eddy covariance (AEC) is increasingly being used to study benthic oxygen (O2) flux dynamics, organic carbon cycling, and ecosystem health in marine and freshwater environments. Because it is a noninvasive technique, has a high temporal resolution (∼15 min), and integrates over a large area of the seafloor (typically 10–100 m2), it has provided new insights on the functioning of aquatic ecosystems under naturally varying in situ conditions and has given us more accurate assessments of their metabolism. In this review, we summarize biogeochemical, ecological, and biological insightsgained from AEC studies of marine ecosystems. A general finding for all substrates is that benthic O2exchange is far more dynamic than earlier recognized, and thus accurate mean values can only be obtained from measurements that integrate over all timescales that affect the local O2exchange. Finally, we highlight new developments of the technique, including measurements of air–water gas exchange and long-term deployments.

BackgroundFollowing blunt trauma, diagnosis of shoulder dislocation based on physical examination alone is difficult due to possible concurrent proximal humeral fractures. X-rays are therefore used to confirm diagnosis. Results from recent observational studies comparing diagnostic accuracy of point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) with X-rays for shoulder dislocation have been encouraging. The aim of this study was to determine whether PoCUS improves diagnostic accuracy when used with physical examination for the diagnosis of shoulder dislocation, proximal humeral fracture and ascertaining successful reduction in the ED.MethodsA prospective, single-centre, open, parallel randomised control study over a 6-month period was used to answer the research question and test the null hypothesis. Consecutive eligible adult patients attending the ED of Mater Dei Hospital in Malta were randomised to either the control (C) (physical examination only) or experimental group (E) (physical examination and a two-point PoCUS scan). The study objectives were to measure diagnostic accuracy for both examinations for detecting shoulder dislocation, any associated proximal humeral fractures and confirming reduction. X-rays were used as reference standard for both groups.Results1206 patients were enrolled in this study (C n=600, E n=606). 290 dislocations (C n=132 and E n=158), 332 proximal humeral fractures (C n=154 and E n=178) and 278 reductions (C n=130 and E n=148) were analysed. A statistically significant difference (p<0.001) was found between the two groups for diagnostic accuracy in shoulder dislocation (C=65%, likelihood ratio (LR)+=2.03 and LR−=0.35 and E=100%, LR+=∞ and LR−=0), proximal humeral fractures (C=45.7%, LR+=1.23 and LR−=0.52 and E=98.3%, LR+=103.9 and LR−=0.03) and reduction (C=68.7%, E=100%). The null hypothesis for this study was thus rejected.ConclusionsThe addition of PoCUS to a physical examination significantly improves diagnostic accuracy for dislocations, proximal humeral fractures and reduction confirmation.Trial registration numberInternational Standard Randomised Controlled Trials Number Registry (ISRCTN17048126).

Many AI ethics guidelines have recently been published that center the fairness, accountability, sustainability, and transparency of algorithmic decision-making. Relatively few guidelines center the ethics of the business practices and political economies in which AI systems are situated. We present the findings of a semi-systematic literature review and thematic analysis aimed at determining the extent to which the ethics of AI business practices are considered in a large sample of guidelines. Our review reveals that the political and economic implications of AI business practices are greatly underrepresented in AI ethics guidelines. In its current state, AI ethics guidelines focus disproportionately on issues of algorithmic decision-making, while the fairness, accountability, sustainability, and transparency of the business decision-making contexts in which AI systems are situated remain seriously undermined by competitive and speculative norms, ethics washing, corporate secrecy, and other harmful business practices. We discuss these challenges, and we suggest that the ontological and disciplinary scope of future AI ethics guidelines should be expanded to better contend with them.