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Aims: To evaluate antibody response to mRNA vaccine, identify subgroups with poor response and to determine long‐term antibody durability in hematological patients. Materials and Methods: We have vaccinated 292 patients with all hematological malignancies with a third dose of mRNA COMIRNATY vaccine with a 12‐month follow‐up period in our center in Ostrava, Czech Republic. Results: Antibody response for the whole cohort exceeded 74% through the whole 12‐month follow‐up. Lowest seroconversion was observed in CLL cohort (20/41, 48.8%), patients who received anti‐CD20 therapy < 6 months before vaccination (8/30, 26.7%) and BTK inhibitors (3/6, 50.0%). On the contrary, patients with chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms and acute leukemia performed comparably with healthy population (33/33; 100% and 12/13; 92.3%, respectively). We have seen better results if the time interval between anti‐CD20 therapy and additional vaccine dose was longer than 6 months (5/8 patients achieved seroconversion on 4th booster dose after previous failure). Also, 36 patients received a 4th dose of vaccine as a booster with measurable increase in protective antibodies in 50% (18/36). Conclusions: Additional doses show promise for a well‐timed revaccination even in poor responders. To our knowledge, no study comparable to our work in terms of follow‐up length, vaccine consistency or variety of hematological malignancies and/or treatment has been reported yet. Our findings shed more light on long‐term antibody response to mRNA vaccines against SARS‐CoV‐2 in patients with hematological cancer and bring important data for the evaluation of possible vaccine failure and scheduling of subsequent doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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 FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudogout is characterized by the deposition of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals (CPPD), primarily affecting large joints. Extra‐articular manifestations, particularly in the head and neck region, are exceedingly rare. We report a unique case of bilateral isolated pseudogout of the middle ear manifesting with progressive conductive hearing loss as the first and only symptom of pseudogout. Otoscopy and CT scan often yield a differential diagnosis that includes tumors or cholesteatoma, necessitating surgery with histopathological examination. The definitive diagnosis is confirmed upon identification of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals. In most cases, removal of the crystals results in resolution of conductive hearing loss. Laryngoscope, 134:5131–5134, 2024 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we report various polyurethane nanocomposites of single‐walled carbon nanotubes using blocking–deblocking reactions. Thus, the synthesis was carried out using blocked isocyanates where, at deblocking temperature, isocyanates regenerated and reacted with polyol (PEG‐400) and single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) to form polyurethane nanocomposites. For example, at 185°C, regenerated (deblocked) hexamethylene diisocyanates was reacted with polyethylene glycol‐400 and SWCNT to form polyurethane nanocomposites. Similarly, at 238°C, regenerated (deblocked) toluene diisocyanates was reacted with polyethylene glycol‐400 and SWCNT to form polyurethane nanocomposites. The characterization of synthesized polyurethane nanocomposites has been done by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, field emission scanning electron microscopy, High resolution transmission electron microscopy and contact angle measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As we enter the exascale computing era, efficiently utilizing power and optimizing the performance of scientific applications under power and energy constraints has become critical and challenging. We propose a low‐overhead autotuning framework to autotune performance and energy for various hybrid MPI/OpenMP scientific applications at large scales and to explore the tradeoffs between application runtime and power/energy for energy efficient application execution, then use this framework to autotune four ECP proxy applications—XSBench, AMG, SWFFT, and SW4lite. Our approach uses Bayesian optimization with a Random Forest surrogate model to effectively search parameter spaces with up to 6 million different configurations on two large‐scale HPC production systems, Theta at Argonne National Laboratory and Summit at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The experimental results show that our autotuning framework at large scales has low overhead and achieves good scalability. Using the proposed autotuning framework to identify the best configurations, we achieve up to 91.59% performance improvement, up to 21.2% energy savings, and up to 37.84% EDP (energy delay product) improvement on up to 4096 nodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to manage abrupt disturbances in input supply voltage and sudden fluctuations in load represents a fundamental requirement for DC‐DC buck converters. While feedback control systems typically address such transients, certain applications necessitate even faster transient responses. This paper introduces an input voltage feedforward scheme (IVFS) integrated with voltage mode feedback controllers to enhance closed‐loop performance. Relevant transfer functions resulting from the inclusion of the feedforward circuit are derived, and an optimal condition for audio susceptibility nullification is identified. This scheme ensures an additional 30dB attenuation in magnitude of audio susceptibility, in contrast to the buck converter without feedforward. In the time domain, the incorporation of IVFS results in a 20% reduction in percentage overshoot for a 12‐8‐12 step in supply voltage. Additionally, for a 12‐15‐12 step, the percentage overshoot and settling time are completely eliminated. Various active and passive parasitics are included in modeling of the buck converter to aid in designing the feedforward and feedback controller. A Type‐III controller is employed as a feedback controller to assess the closed‐loop performance. A hardware prototype is built to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed feedforward scheme. The implementation of the entire circuit is straightforward due to its requirement of only a few discrete components, namely, analog multiplier, and error amplifier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new luminescent Cu(I) tetrametallic metallacycle B is reported that features very rare semi‐bridging aqua ligands. When heated markedly above room temperature, this compound undergoes a post‐synthetic transformation in the solid‐state, affording the new luminescent metallacycle C. Thermogravimetric analysis, IR spectroscopy and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction reveal that this alteration preserves the gross tetrametallic macrocycle structure, but is caused by the release of the coordinated water molecules with the concomitant formation of cuprophilic interactions. This transition induces a shift from eye‐perceived green (B) to blue (C) room‐temperature luminescence for these molecular solids. Photophysical measurements and time‐dependent density‐functional theory calculations have been conducted to identify the origins of the emission properties lying in these structurally related assemblies, and suggest that thermally activated delayed fluorescence dominates the radiative relaxation pathways. This study highlights the innovative feature of Cu(I) derivatives, offering access to stimuli‐sensitive materials that can witness, a posteriori, the exceeding of critical temperatures in their environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alterations in tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle metabolism are associated with hepatic metabolic disorders. Elevated hepatic acetate concentrations, often attributed to high caloric intake, are recognized as a pivotal factor in the etiology of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Therefore, the assessment of acetate breakdown and TCA cycle activity plays a central role in understanding the impact of diet‐induced alterations on liver metabolism. Magnetic resonance‐based deuterium metabolic imaging (DMI) could help to unravel the underlying mechanisms involved in disease development and progression, however, the application of conventional deuterated glucose does not lead to substantial enrichment in hepatic glutamine and glutamate. This study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of DMI for tracking deuterated acetate breakdown via the TCA cycle in lean and diet‐induced fatty liver (FL) rats using 3D DMI after an intraperitoneal infusion of sodium acetate‐d3 at 9.4T. Localized and nonlocalized liver spectra acquired at 10 time points post‐injection over a 130‐min study revealed similar intrahepatic acetate uptake in both animal groups (AUCFL = 717.9 ± 131.1 mM▯min−1, AUClean = 605.1 ± 119.9 mM▯min−1, p = 0.62). Metabolic breakdown could be observed in both groups with an emerging glutamine/glutamate (Glx) peak as a downstream metabolic product (AUCFL = 113.6 ± 23.8 mM▯min−1, AUClean = 136.7 ± 41.7 mM▯min−1, p = 0.68). This study showed the viability of DMI for tracking substrate flux through the TCA cycle, underscoring its methodological potential for imaging metabolic processes in the body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell reprogramming and manufacturing have broad applications in tissue regeneration and disease treatment. However, many derived cell types lack unique cell surface markers for protein‐based cell sorting, making it difficult to isolate these cells from mixed populations. Additionally, there is a need to identify and isolate cells of interest at the early stages of cell expansion. To address this challenge, a nucleic acid‐based gold nanorod (NAGNR) fluorescent biosensor was engineered to detect the mRNA expression of intracellular markers for cell sorting. Its application is demonstrated in isolating induced neuronal (iN) cells from dermal fibroblast populations during the early stages of cell reprogramming. Cell sorting based on the mRNA of the neuronal transcriptional factor Ascl1 resulted in an enrichment of iN cells from 3% to 72%, and additional sorting with the transcriptional factor Scn2 further increased iN enrichment. Moreover, NAGNR biosensors can be used in conjunction with protein marker‐based cell sorting. NAGNR‐sorted iN cells show a functional response to electrical stimulation in a co‐culture of iN cells and muscle cells. These findings demonstrate that NAGNR‐based cell sorting offers great potential for cell identification and isolation at an early stage of cell reprogramming and manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While innovative work behavior sets the stage for organizational innovativeness, little is known about how innovative work behavior is related to business model innovation. This study analyzes how employees' innovative work behavior leads to business model innovation. Following the organizational support theory, we further examine that business model innovation is a function of individual innovative work behavior of the employee and the firm's ability to create an organizational environment in which these work behaviors can unfold and be translated into innovative output, such as business model innovation. Based on survey data from 154 firms, this study empirically finds that employee innovative work behavior is positively related to business model innovation. Further, we find that the effect of innovative work behavior on business model innovation is moderated through organizational support for innovation. However, the moderation reveals different results for low levels of innovative work behavior than for high values. For high values, we find that additional organizational support does not lead to more business model innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Dual velocity encoding PC‐MRI can produce spurious artifacts when using high ratios of velocity encoding values (VENCs), limiting its ability to generate high‐quality images across a wide range of encoding velocities. This study aims to propose and compare dual‐VENC correction methods for such artifacts. Theory and Methods: Two denoising approaches based on spatiotemporal regularization are proposed and compared with a state‐of‐the‐art method based on sign correction. Accuracy is assessed using simulated data from an aorta and brain aneurysm, as well as 8 two‐dimensional (2D) PC‐MRI ascending aorta datasets. Two temporal resolutions (30,60) ms and noise levels (9,12) dB are considered, with noise added to the complex magnetization. The error is evaluated with respect to the noise‐free measurement in the synthetic case and to the unwrapped image without additional noise in the volunteer datasets. Results: In all studied cases, the proposed methods are more accurate than the Sign Correction technique. Using simulated 2D+T data from the aorta (60 ms, 9 dB), the Dual‐VENC (DV) error 0.82±0.07$$ 0.82\pm 0.07 $$ is reduced to: 0.66±0.04$$ 0.66\pm 0.04 $$ (Sign Correction); 0.34±0.04$$ 0.34\pm 0.04 $$ and 0.32±0.04$$ 0.32\pm 0.04 $$ (proposed techniques). The methods are found to be significantly different (p‐value <0.05$$ <0.05 $$). Importantly, brain aneurysm data revealed that the Sign Correction method is not suitable, as it increases error when the flow is not unidirectional. All three methods improve the accuracy of in vivo data. Conclusion: The newly proposed methods outperform the Sign Correction method in improving dual‐VENC PC‐MRI images. Among them, the approach based on temporal differences has shown the highest accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Educational inequalities persist between students of low socioeconomic status and their more affluent peers. At the same time, there is evidence of positive relations between student engagement and achievement. This multiple case study investigates a national project aimed at increasing student engagement and achievement through post‐Covid‐19 support focused on disadvantaged schools in the Czech Republic. School staff perceived poor attendance, low student motivation and discipline problems as the most challenging issues to be addressed through project support measures. Attendance problems are tackled mainly through experiential activities; motivation and discipline problems are usually addressed by personnel positions. We argue that the selected measures aimed predominantly to support student emotional and behavioural engagement; strategies to enhance cognitive engagement and student achievement were sidelined. Paradoxically, student engagement may become a goal in itself rather than being inscribed into learning outcomes. Implications for programme support and school improvement research are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The skeletons of sharks and rays, fashioned from cartilage, and armored by a veneer of mineralized tiles (tesserae) present a mathematical challenge: How can the continuous covering be maintained as the skeleton expands? This study, using microCT and custom visual data analyses of growing stingray skeletons, systematically examines tessellation patterns and morphologies of the many thousand interacting tesserae covering the hyomandibula (a skeletal element critical to feeding), over a two‐fold developmental change in hyomandibula length. The number of tesserae remains surprisingly constant, even as the hyomandibula expands isometrically, with all hyomandibulae displaying self‐similar distributions of tesserae shapes/sizes. Although the distribution of tesserae geometries largely agrees with the rules for polyhedra tiling of complex surfaces—dominated by hexagons and a minor fraction of pentagons and heptagons, but very few other polygons—the agreement with Euler's classic mathematical laws is not perfect. Contrary to the assumed uniform growth rate (which is shown would create geometric incompatibilities), larger tesserae grow faster to accommodate skeletal expansion. It is hypothesized that this local regulation of global system complexity is driven by tension (from cartilaginous core expansion) in the fibers connecting tesserae, with strain‐responsive cells orchestrating local mineral apposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel graphene oxide‐catalyzed two‐component cascade reaction in an aqueous medium has been developed to synthesize indole‐fused furopyran derivatives, overcoming significant challenges in aqueous organic reactions to advance eco‐friendly chemical processes. Density functional theory (DFT) studies were conducted to clarify the mechanism and to understand the role of temperature in forming our desired kinetic controlled product (KCP). Using a pharmacophore hybrid approach, a series of indole‐fused furopyran derivatives were designed and molecular docking was performed to assess their binding affinities toward target proteins in liver and breast cancer. The derivatives exhibited strong affinities, particularly towards the 4FA6 and 1U72 proteins, driven by hydrogen bonding interactions with specific amino acid residues. Ten best derivatives which showed strong binding affinities and favorable docking scores, were synthesized using the two‐component cascade reaction in an aqueous medium and tested for in vitro activity against liver and breast cancer cells. These derivatives showed notable antiproliferative activity against cancer cell lines, with promising IC50 values against breast and hepatocellular carcinoma, highlighting its potential as an anticancer drug candidate. The most potent compounds, 4d and 4f, demonstrated significant cytotoxicity against HepG2 and MCF7 cell lines, with IC50 values of 42.36 µM and 35.69 µM, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, the anti‐cancer activity of indole‐fused furopyran derivatives is being investigated for the first time for potential therapeutic development in combating these challenging diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spiders are generalist predators able to respond very well to environmental conditions. Therefore, they are good bioindicators for forest management practices. The vertical distribution of spiders in forest stands has very rarely been studied. Thus, we investigated patterns in species richness, diversity, life‐history traits and functional diversity of spiders within the aboveground vertical stratification of oak dominated forests and their response to the canopy cover gradient. There were three localities sampled during four growing seasons (2008–2011, Southern Moravia, Czech Republic). Spiders were sampled monthly by flight intercept traps, which were placed in three stratigraphical levels of oak stands. Altogether, 3592 spiders, representing 18 families, and 112 distinguishable species were collected during the study. We found that species richness, total abundance the abundance of ambush hunters, other hunters and scarce, rare and very rare species of spiders increased from ground level to the canopy, and that species composition changed across the vertical gradient. Some of these characteristics were significantly influenced by interaction with canopy cover. Less common ballooning species preferred the ground part of forest stratification. Canopy cover evaluation showed that the abundance of orb web weavers and less common ballooning species was highest in the more closed canopies. The opposite trend was found for sheet web weavers, very abundant species and open habitat species. Space web weavers, other hunters and very common ballooning species showed increased abundance in the higher layers under conditions of more open canopy cover. Our results suggest that sampling spiders across the vertical gradient of forest stands might be important for a proper biodiversity and management practice evaluation, although most recent assessments were conducted on ground‐dwelling spiders obtained from pitfall traps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Universal in the United States (US) since 2006, newborn screening (NBS) programs for sickle cell disease (SCD) allow for early identification of the disease and, as an unintentional byproduct, identification of sickle cell trait (SCT). Unlike other carrier states, SCT is highly prevalent and is found in nearly 3 million Americans, which results in important reproductive implications. Currently, all NBS programs in the US are responsible for their own policies regarding SCT notification, and little is known about how SCT notification practices are performed and how these practices vary across NBS programs. We surveyed NBS programs personnel in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the US' territories of Puerto Rico and Guam (n = 53) using an electronic survey. There was a 100% response rate. All NBS programs (100%) provide notification of SCT status to either a pediatrician or parent: 49% notify the pediatrician only, 45% notify both the pediatrician and parent, and 6% notify the parent only. A total of 98% of NBS programs retain electronic records of SCT status, but only 38% can be directly accessed by pediatricians/primary care doctors. No state operates a publicly available database that allows individuals to access their own records. Only one state provides renotification at reproductive age. In conclusion, there is wide variability in NBS practices for SCT notification. This study demonstrates a need for national guidelines to standardize SCT notification across the US to ensure effective notification and counseling for SCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions Are individual differences in attachment security inborn or shaped by the social environment? In infancy and early childhood, the evidence points to a substantial role of the environment, but a large twin study in early adolescence showed considerable heritability. Here we examined the twin heritability of attachment in middle childhood. We hypothesized that in middle childhood some heritability would emerge. Furthermore, we expected a role for cognitive and language abilities in explaining variance in attachment in middle childhood, partly related to the measurement of attachment, and we therefore examined associations with IQ.This pre‐registered study included 415 same‐sex twin pairs (52% girls, 58% monozygotic) between 8 and 11 years old (M = 9.59, SD = 0.79). Participants were recruited from an experimental cohort‐sequential study including two age‐overlapping longitudinal cohorts. Secure Base Script Knowledge was assessed with the Middle Childhood Attachment Script Assessment . Zygosity of the twins was determined using DNA samples. In the younger cohort, cognitive development was assessed with the Dutch version of the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence . In the older cohort, the Dutch version of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children was used .Significant additive heritability (38%) was found in the absence of a common environment component. This result diverges from findings in infancy and early childhood and aligns with the results in early adolescence.The gene–environment correlation hypothesis suggesting that older children more actively shape their experiences in social contexts may offer a plausible explanation for the heritability of attachment in middle childhood. In middle childhood this mechanism might tip the balance toward a larger role for additive genetics. Larger longitudinal twin studies are needed to replicate the heritability of attachment after preschool age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Translation abstract Re‐use of structural elements – quantifiying the ecological potentialThe re‐use of building elements is one of the key strategies for establishing a climate‐friendly and regenerative construction industry. However, building with used load‐bearing components in particular has so far been hampered by both regulatory hurdles and the linear planning process. The re‐use of steel girders from the stairwell tower of a parking garage in Stuttgart is an examplary project that demonstrates the great potential of reusing load‐bearing components. The associated emission savings could be quantified with the help of life cycle assessment. A consideration of the future reusability shows the limits of this method for a comprehensive consideration of the ecological added value. To make these uniformly measurable and thus promote the implementation of a circular economy in the construction industry, the life cycle assessment method must be supplemented by a circularity assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polar freshwater ecosystems are sensitive to climate change, facing increasing temperatures and its consequences such as glacier retreat. Phosphorus and/or fixed nitrogen are widely expected to limit primary production in most freshwater environments, however the role of micronutrients is largely un‐characterized. We measured dissolved nitrate and nitrite, phosphate, cobalt, iron, manganese and zinc in a selection of Greenland and Antarctic lakes, and report the first evaluation of cobalt regulating phytoplankton growth in these systems using bioassay incubations. Results showed cobalt potentially co‐limited phytoplankton in three of the eight sites tested. A time‐series of dissolved cobalt measured in Kobbefjord (southwest Greenland) runoff corroborated low cobalt availability during summer. This was in contrast to manganese and iron which remained at high concentrations throughout summer. We hypothesize that high manganese:cobalt and/or zinc:cobalt ratios in runoff, may impede cellular cobalt acquisition, meaning cobalt co‐limitation of primary production is plausible in many polar freshwater environments. Plain Language Summary: Primary production in aquatic environments relies on supplies of bio‐accessible nitrogen and phosphorus in addition to light availability. Glacier melt and permafrost degradation have accelerated worldwide over the past two decades, inducing changes in these resources with ensuing ecological impacts. The potential ecological role of bio‐essential metals such as cobalt has however been sparsely tested in polar aquatic environments. Here we conducted nutrient addition bioassay incubations in a selection of Greenland and Antarctic lakes, and found phytoplankton growth was potentially co‐limited by dissolved cobalt availability in three of the eight tested sites. Manganese, zinc and cobalt can compete for cellular uptake, therefore we further analyzed dissolved concentrations in runoff across a multi‐year time‐series, finding that the ratios of these elements are potentially conducive to inhibition of cobalt uptake. We hypothesize that cobalt may more broadly co‐limit aquatic primary production as a result of high manganese:cobalt and/or zinc:cobalt ratios, with potential impacts on microbial community composition. Key Points: Concentrations of macro‐ and micro‐nutrients in a selection of Greenland and Antarctic lakes indicated cobalt deficiency for phytoplanktonBioassay incubation results showed cobalt potentially co‐limited phytoplankton in three of the eight sites testedA time‐series of measurements in Greenland runoff suggested high manganese:cobalt and zinc:cobalt ratios could impede cellular cobalt acquisition [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex chromosomes play an outsized role in adaptation and speciation, and thus deserve particular attention in evolutionary genomics. In particular, fusions between sex chromosomes and autosomes can produce neo‐sex chromosomes, which offer important insights into the evolutionary dynamics of sex chromosomes. Here, we investigate the evolutionary origin of the previously reported Danaus neo‐sex chromosome within the tribe Danaini. We assembled and annotated genomes of Tirumala septentrionis (subtribe Danaina), Ideopsis similis (Amaurina), Idea leuconoe (Euploeina) and Lycorea halia (Itunina) and identified their Z‐linked scaffolds. We found that the Danaus neo‐sex chromosome resulting from the fusion between a Z chromosome and an autosome corresponding to the Melitaea cinxia chromosome (McChr) 21 arose in a common ancestor of Danaina, Amaurina and Euploina. We also identified two additional fusions as the W chromosome further fused with the synteny block McChr31 in I. similis and independent fusion occurred between ancestral Z chromosome and McChr12 in L. halia. We further tested a possible role of sexually antagonistic selection in sex chromosome turnover by analysing the genomic distribution of sex‐biased genes in I. leuconoe and L. halia. The autosomes corresponding to McChr21 and McChr31 involved in the fusions are significantly enriched in female‐ and male‐biased genes, respectively, which could have hypothetically facilitated fixation of the neo‐sex chromosomes. This suggests a role of sexual antagonism in sex chromosome turnover in Lepidoptera. The neo‐Z chromosomes of both I. leuconoe and L. halia appear fully compensated in somatic tissues, but the extent of dosage compensation for the ancestral Z varies across tissues and species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molybdenum complexes featuring acyl‐hydrazones ligands with several substitutions, H2L, have been synthesized using classic solution‐based, hydrothermal, and mechanochemical techniques in diverse solvent environments. Elemental analysis (EA), infrared attenuated total reflection spectroscopy (IR‐ATR), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) helped to elucidate the structural and thermal properties of these complexes. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) experiments were conducted to determine the crystal and molecular structures of one ligand and six mononuclear complexes, denoted [MoO2(L)(D)] (D=MeOH, EtOH, H2O). The catalytic potential of those Mo compounds was explored in the (ep)oxidation reactions of cyclooctene as model substrate and linalool as natural substrate issued from biomass, employing aqueous tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as an oxidising agent and no additional organic solvent. Experimental findings were complemented by theoretical density functional theory (DFT) calculations, establishing a correlation between experimental results and theoretical predictions. Insights gained from this comprehensive investigation shed light on the role of ligands in catalytic pathways for both cyclooctene and linalool oxidation, thereby advancing our better understanding of molybdenum‐based catalytic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first step of successful infection by any intracellular pathogen relies on its ability to invade its host cell membrane. However, the detailed structural and molecular understanding underlying lipid membrane modification during pathogenic invasion remains unclear. In this study, we show that a specific Leishmania donovani (LD) protein, KMP-11, forms oligomers that bridge LD and host macrophage (MΦ) membranes. This KMP-11 induced interaction between LD and MΦ depends on the variations in cholesterol (CHOL) and ergosterol (ERG) contents in their respective membranes. These variations are crucial for the subsequent steps of invasion, including (a) the initial attachment, (b) CHOL transport from MΦ to LD, and (c) detachment of LD from the initial point of contact through a liquid ordered (Lo) to liquid disordered (Ld) membrane-phase transition. To validate the importance of KMP-11, we generate KMP-11 depleted LD, which failed to attach and invade host MΦ. Through tryptophan-scanning mutagenesis and synthesized peptides, we develop a generalized mathematical model, which demonstrates that the hydrophobic moment and the symmetry sequence code at the membrane interacting protein domain are key factors in facilitating the membrane phase transition and, consequently, the host cell infection process by Leishmania parasites. Synopsis: The Leismhania membrane protein KMP-11 facilitates parasite invasion into macrophages through cholesterol transport from the macrophage membrane to Leishmania and subsequent phase transition in the host cell membrane. KMP-11 transports cholesterol from macrophage to Leishmania. KMP-11 increases macrophage membrane fluidity through liquid ordered to liquid disordered phase transition. KMP-11 depleted Leishmania cannot attach and invade macrophages. KMP-11 can form oligomers which can bridge two membranes containing different sterol molecules. The Leismhania membrane protein KMP-11 facilitates parasite invasion into macrophages through cholesterol transport from the macrophage membrane to Leishmania and subsequent phase transition in the host cell membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the years following the COVID‐19 pandemic, online assessment has emerged as an increasingly popular method for testing children. This review aims to review key advantages and disadvantages of online assessment in young children, specifically in the area of literacy and mathematics assessment. We first consider the recent history of online assessment and give evidence from our own experiences with online assessments in both Cebu, Philippines and Hong Kong. We then discuss the benefits of conducting assessments online. One of the key strengths of online assessments is the efficient use of resources, such as ease of staff training, increased participation and decreased costs for both participants and researchers. Difficulties related to testing environment, parental interference and exclusion of certain populations are also highlighted as focal challenges that must be considered when designing and implementing online assessment. The reliability and validity of online assessments are then specifically discussed in relation to the question of how to best ensure that online measures function as intended, stressing the importance of establishing separate norms for the various administration modes. Notably, online assessments delivered via phone screen must have separate norms than those delivered on a computer screen, as device differences may account for differences in performance. Finally, we present broader considerations for designing online assessments with young children. This includes practical tips for pilot testing, user interface design, data confidentiality and automatic scoring, both to enhance the efficiency of future online assessments and increase participation. Specifically, online assessments for children must account for their developing attentional abilities, meaning assessments should be brief, engaging and contain clear task instructions. The implementation of these considerations will support the development of more reliable, valid and inclusive assessments which will allow researchers and practitioners to support equitable and feasible online testing moving forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease and its associated morbidity and mortality. The low efficacy observed with some anti‐hypertensive therapies has been attributed partly to inter‐individual genetic variability. This paper reviews the major findings regarding these genetic variabilities that modulate responses to anti‐hypertensive therapies such as angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), diuretics, calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and β‐adrenoceptor blockers. The importance of studying these genetic polymorphisms stems from the goal to optimise anti‐hypertensive therapy for each individual patient, aiming for the highest efficacy and lowest risk of adverse effects. It is important to recognise that environmental and epigenetic factors can contribute to the observed variations in drug responses. Owing to the multigenic and multifactorial nature of drug responses, further research is crucial for translating these findings into clinical practice and the establishment of reliable recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background Objective Methods Results and Conclusion Despite the numerous positive effects of augmented reality (AR) on learning, previous research has shown ambiguous results regarding the cognitive demand on the learner arising from, for example, the overlay of virtual elements or novel interaction techniques. At the same time, the number of evidence‐based guidelines on designing AR is limited or focuses on global effects, primarily relying on media comparison studies, whose validity is criticised.To guide the meaningful design of learning and training settings, this paper systematically reviews empirical research on AR design and synthesises the findings to develop evidence‐based recommendations for designing AR systems considering cognitive load.We conducted a systematic literature review, initially screening 810 distinct papers and ultimately analysing findings from 27 publications, which report on 29 distinct experimental studies. This selection was based on rigorously defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines.The central value of this paper is the aggregation of existing evidence from empirical studies, resulting in 15 recommendations for AR design based on six design dimensions: Spatiality‐related, Interaction‐related, Contextuality‐related, Content‐related, Guidance‐related and Display Selection. Additionally, with three points for future research, this systematic literature review, first, stresses the need for more empirical evidence and value‐added studies. Second, learner characteristics that might influence cognitive load in AR‐based learning should be examined. Third, it advocates for the inclusion of measurements beyond the NASA‐TLX, and including more physiological measurements (e.g., eye‐tracking, EEG) to enhance the applicability of the results for learning and training situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forecasting population responses to rapidly changing marine ecosystems requires mechanistic models integrating complex demographic processes, fitted to long time series, across large spatial scales. We used a Bayesian metapopulation model fit to colony census data and climatic covariates spanning 1900–2100 for all Northeast Atlantic colonies of an exemplar seabird, the Northern gannet (Morus bassanus) to investigate metapopulation dynamics under two climate scenarios. Fecundity varied non‐linearly with near‐surface air temperature and recruitment was depressed by sea surface temperature. We predict regime changes in density dependence as marine carrying capacities become constrained with increasing SST. Sensitivity to climate change varied across space and time, disadvantaging southwestern colonies whilst benefitting northern ones. Such sensitivity is noteworthy for a species previously assumed robust to climate change. We provide a spatial overview of climate sensitivities across a metapopulation to help with evidence‐based conservation management and open the way for similar mechanistic explorations for other colonial species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Satellite‐derived global digital elevation models (DEMs) are essential for providing the topographic information needed in a wide range of hydrological applications. However, their use is limited by spatial resolution and vertical bias due to sensor limitations in observing bare terrain. Significant efforts have been made to improve the resolution of global DEMs (e.g., TanDEM‐X) and create bare‐earth DEMs (e.g., FABDEM, MERIT, CEDTM). We evaluated the vertical accuracy of bare‐earth and global DEMs in Central European mountains and submontane regions, and assessed how DEM resolution, vegetation offset removal, land cover, and terrain slope affect stream network delineation. Using lidar‐derived DTM and national stream networks as references, we found that: (a) bare‐earth DEMs outperform global DEMs across all land cover types. RMSEs increased with increasing slope for all DEMs in non‐forest areas. In forests, however, the negative effect of the slope was outweighed by the vegetation offset even for bare‐earth DTMs; (b) the accuracy of derived stream networks was affected by terrain slope and land cover more than by the vertical accuracy of DEMs. Stream network delineation performed poorly in non‐forest areas and relatively well in forests. Increasing slope improved the streams delineation performance; (c) using DEMs with higher resolution (e.g., 12 m TanDEM‐X) improved stream network delineation, but increasing resolution also increased the need for effective vegetation bias removal. Our results indicate that vertical accuracy alone does not reflect how well DEMs perform in stream network delineation. This underscores the need to include stream network performance in DEM quality rankings. Plain Language Summary: We evaluated the accuracy of different types of digital elevation models (DEMs) and derived stream networks in Central European mountains. Our focus was on satellite‐derived global DEMs, including bare‐earth DEMs (i.e., DEMs with vegetation and building offsets removed). Using lidar DTM and national stream networks as references, we found that bare‐earth DEMs consistently outperformed other DEMs across all evaluated land cover types. We observed that slope and land cover have contrasting effects on the accuracy of DEMs and delineated stream networks. As slope increases, DEMs accuracy decreases, while for delineated stream networks, the opposite trend is observed. Where land cover is concerned, DEMs' vertical accuracies (i.e., how well they represent the bare‐earth terrain) are lowest in forests, whereas the accuracy of stream network is lowest in non‐forest areas. Furthermore, we demonstrated that slope and land cover type considerably affect the accuracy of stream network delineation, more so than the vertical accuracy of the DEMs. Additionally, we found that using DEMs with higher resolution can improve stream network delineation, but increasing resolution also increases the need for effective vegetation bias removal. Therefore, removing vegetation and buildings offset from Tandem‐X DEM at a 12 m resolution would represent a major next step forward. Key Points: Differences between digital elevation models (DEMs) (i.e., their absolute vertical accuracy) have a lower effect on stream delineation than terrain slope and landcoverThe use of higher‐resolution DEMs to derive stream networks increases the importance of removing vegetation and building biasVertical accuracy alone does not reflect DEMs' performance in stream delineation, emphasizing the need to include this in quality evaluation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanopharmacology is an emerging interdisciplinary field that investigates drug action using biomechanically appropriate in vitro systems to the relevant (patho)physiology. This review outlines emerging technologies and techniques which aim to bridge the gap between mechanical cues influencing cellular biology and conventional pharmacology. We delve into the impact of mechanopharmacology on drug development in cancers and fibrotic diseases. Mechanical cues such as stretch, stiffness, circadian rhythms, fluid flow, intercellular signalling cascades and cytoskeletal structures can modulate drug interactions with molecular targets with implications for drug discovery and development. Models incorporating mechanopharmacological cues to investigate pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and therapeutic outcomes are outlined. Furthermore, this review discusses innovations in the use of biomaterials and microfluidics to further enable the emulation of the mechanical microenvironment. We advocate for the application of mechanopharmacological considerations to improve the physiological relevance of methods used in the drug discovery pipeline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Fatigue is a common and disabling symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS). Educational interventions have shown potential to reduce fatigue. The aim was to systematically review the current best evidence on patient education programmes for MS‐related fatigue. Methods: This was a systematic review and meta‐analysis following Cochrane methodology. A systematic search was conducted in eight databases (September 2023). Moreover, reference lists and trial registers were searched and experts in the field were contacted. Randomized controlled trials were included evaluating patient education programmes for people with MS with the primary aim of reducing fatigue. Results: In total, 1176 studies were identified and assessed by two independent reviewers; 15 studies (1473 participants) were included. All interventions provided information and education about different aspects of MS‐related fatigue with different forms of application, some with components of psychological interventions. Amongst those, the most frequently applied were cognitive behavioural therapy (n = 5) and energy‐conservation‐based approaches (n = 4). Studies differed considerably concerning mode of intervention delivery, number of participants and length of follow‐up. Interventions reduced fatigue severity (eight studies, n = 878, standardized mean difference −0.28; 95% confidence interval −0.53 to −0.03; low certainty) and fatigue impact (nine studies, n = 824, standardized mean difference −0.21; 95% confidence interval −0.42 to 0.00; moderate certainty) directly after the intervention. Mixed results were found for long‐term effects on fatigue, for secondary endpoints (depressive symptoms, quality of life, coping) and for subgroup analyses. Conclusion: Educational interventions for people with MS‐related fatigue may be effective in reducing fatigue in the short term. More research is needed on long‐term effects and the importance of specific intervention components, delivery and context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Research on the link between affect and creativity rests on the assumption that creativity unfolds as a stimulus‐driven response to affective states. We challenge this assumption and examine whether personality dynamics moderate the relationships between positive and negative mood with creativity. Theoretical Model: According to our model, personality dynamics that generate and maintain positive affect and downregulate negative affect energize creativity. Based on this model, we expect high creativity in response to negative mood if people engage in self‐motivation and achieve a reduction in negative mood. We further derive that individual differences in action versus state orientation moderate the within‐person relationship between mood and creativity. Method: We conducted an experience‐sampling study and examined the relationship between mood and creativity in everyday work‐life. Two hundred and ten participants indicated their action‐state orientation and reported their mood three times a day over five consecutive workdays. At noon of each day, we assessed self‐motivation and in the evening the extent to which participants had generated novel and useful ideas during the day. Results: We observed high creativity when negative mood declined and self‐motivation was high. Action‐state orientation moderated the within‐person relationships of positive and negative mood with creativity. Conclusion: Personality dynamics determine whether positive and negative mood result in creativity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Elevated C‐reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, is common in many chronic conditions. We aimed to examine to what extent elevated CRP in chronic conditions could be explained by concurrent adiposity. Materials and Methods: This cross‐sectional study analysed UK Biobank data on 10 chronic conditions reported at baseline. Linear regression models explored the extent to which CRP concentrations were elevated in each condition, unadjusted; adjusted for sociodemographic confounders and lifestyle and body mass index (BMI) in a series of models; or adjusted for BMI and waist circumference together or for adiposity alone. Results: After exclusion of participants with a potential acute infection at baseline, we tested the association in 292 772 UK Biobank participants. Linear regression showed that elevated CRP concentration was associated with all included conditions. After adjustment for sociodemographic confounders, lifestyle and BMI, chronic kidney disease, heart failure, liver disease, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were still associated with elevated CRP. In contrast, the association between prevalent diabetes, prior myocardial infarction (MI), hypertension and sleep apnoea and CRP could be mostly explained by adiposity alone. For example, the 42% higher CRP concentrations in diabetes compared to those without diabetes in the unadjusted model (lnCRP β: 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.32–0.37, p < 0.001) were completely attenuated after adjustment for BMI (lnCRP β: −0.07; 95% CI: −0.09−0.05, p < 0.001). Conclusions/Interpretation: In diabetes, MI, hypertension and sleep apnoea and elevated CRP appears to be accounted for by the greater adiposity typically evident in these conditions. However, for the other conditions, systemic inflammation cannot be explained by excess adiposity alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To utilise combined diffusion‐relaxation MRI techniques to interrogate antenatal changes in the placenta prior to extreme preterm birth among both women with PPROM and membranes intact, and compare this to a control group who subsequently delivered at term. Design: Observational study. Setting: Tertiary Obstetric Unit, London, UK. Population: Cases: pregnant women who subsequently spontaneously delivered a singleton pregnancy prior to 32 weeks' gestation without any other obstetric complications. Controls: pregnant women who delivered an uncomplicated pregnancy at term. Methods: All women consented to an MRI examination. A combined diffusion‐relaxation MRI of the placenta was undertaken and analysed using fractional anisotropy, a combined T2*‐apparent diffusion coefficient model and a combined T2*‐intravoxel incoherent motion model, in order to provide a detailed placental phenotype associated with preterm birth. Subgroup analyses based on whether women in the case group had PPROM or intact membranes at time of scan, and on latency to delivery were performed. Main Outcome Measures: Fractional anisotropy, apparent diffusion coefficients and T2* placental values, from two models including a combined T2*‐IVIM model separating fast‐ and slow‐flowing (perfusing and diffusing) compartments. Results: This study included 23 women who delivered preterm and 52 women who delivered at term. Placental T2* was lower in the T2*‐apparent diffusion coefficient model (p < 0.001) and in the fast‐ and slow‐flowing compartments (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001) of the T2*‐IVIM model. This reached a higher level of significance in the preterm prelabour rupture of the membranes group than in the membranes intact group. There was a reduced perfusion fraction among the cases with impending delivery. Conclusions: Placental diffusion‐relaxation reveals significant changes in the placenta prior to preterm birth with greater effect noted in cases of preterm prelabour rupture of the membranes. Application of this technique may allow clinically valuable interrogation of histopathological changes before preterm birth. In turn, this could facilitate more accurate antenatal prediction of preterm chorioamnionitis and so aid decisions around the safest time of delivery. Furthermore, this technique provides a research tool to improve understanding of the pathological mechanisms associated with preterm birth in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the importance of bacteria in surf zone water quality, detailed insights into their community composition, functions, and seasonal dynamics at recreational beaches are scarce. This study conducted year‐long, weekly monitoring of bacterial communities and environmental factors at a recreational beach in Ostend, Belgium. Using full‐length 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we correlated bacterial composition and predicted functions with environmental factors to identify potential drivers. Bacterial communities were significantly affected by seasonal variations in chlorophyll a (Chl a), net primary productivity (NPP), and seawater temperature (SWT), with minimal influence from faecal inputs due to human activities. Spring showed distinct abundances of Planktomarina, Amylibacter, and Sulfitobacter, positively correlated with Chl a and related to sulphur oxidation potential. Summer had higher abundances of Cryomorphaceae, likely enhancing chemoheterotrophy. Beginning in mid to late fall and extending into winter, bacterial communities underwent substantial changes. Fall featured a distinctive enrichment of Thioglobaceae, inversely correlated with Chl a. Winter was dominated by Methylophilaceae (OM43 clade), negatively correlated with Chl a, NPP, and SWT. Both seasons exhibited elevated levels of potentially pathogenic phenotypes and predicted functions related to methanol oxidation and methylotrophy. This study provides a baseline for understanding how surf zone bacterial communities respond to environmental changes and impact health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A detailed structural analysis of the Zn‐rich δ1‐MnZn9.7 phase using single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction is presented. The δ1 phase has been synthesized by the high‐temperature synthetic route. The structure crystallizes in space group P63/mmc (Pearson symbol hP556) with unit‐cell parameters: a = b = 12.9051 (2) Å and c = 57.640 (1) Å. The 556 atoms are distributed over 52 Wyckoff positions in the hexagonal unit cell: seven ordered Mn sites, 37 ordered Zn sites and eight positionally disordered Zn sites. The structure predominantly consists of Frank–Kasper polyhedra (endohedral icosahedra Zn12 and icosioctahedron Zn16) and four distinct types of glue Zn atoms. The structure comprises a 127‐atom supercluster (Mn13Zn114), a 38‐atom extended Pearce cluster (Mn3Zn35), a 46‐atom L‐tetrahedron (Mn4Zn42), a Friauf polyhedron (Zn17), a disordered icosahedral cluster (MnZn12) and four glue Zn atoms. Positionally disordered Zn sites around an Mn site can be visualized as the superimposition of three differently oriented Zn12 icosahedra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Insomnia is a prevalent and disabling condition whose treatment is not always effective. This pilot study explores the feasibility and effects of closed‐loop auditory stimulation (CLAS) as a potential non‐invasive intervention to improve sleep, its subjective quality, and memory consolidation in patients with insomnia. A total of 27 patients with chronic insomnia underwent a crossover, sham‐controlled study with 2 nights of either CLAS or sham stimulation. Polysomnography was used to record sleep parameters, while questionnaires and a word‐pair memory task were administered to assess subjective sleep quality and memory consolidation. The initial analyses included 17 patients who completed the study, met the inclusion criteria, and received CLAS. From those, 10 (58%) received only a small number of stimuli. In the remaining seven (41%) patients with sufficient CLAS, we evaluated the acute and whole‐night effect on sleep. CLAS led to a significant immediate increase in slow oscillation (0.5–1 Hz) amplitude and activity, and reduced delta (1–4 Hz) and sigma/sleep spindle (12–15 Hz) activity during slow‐wave sleep across the whole night. All these fundamental sleep rhythms are implicated in sleep‐dependent memory consolidation. Yet, CLAS did not change sleep‐dependent memory consolidation or sleep macrostructure characteristics, number of arousals, or subjective perception of sleep quality. Results showed CLAS to be feasible in patients with insomnia. However, a high variance in the efficacy of our automated stimulation approach suggests that further research is needed to optimise stimulation protocols to better unlock potential CLAS benefits for sleep structure and subjective sleep quality in such clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may exhibit less pretend play than their neurotypical counterparts. Previous research suggests that caregivers' input during play influences children's play behavior, and children's behavior may in turn prompt caregivers of differently developing children to talk about play in different ways. Caregiver input about pretend play during toy play at home was examined at 18‐ and 36‐months in toddlers with an older sibling with ASD, who are at elevated likelihood (EL) for ASD (n = 40), and toddlers with typical likelihood (TL) for ASD (n = 12). EL toddlers were classified into three outcome groups: EL‐ASD (n = 10), EL‐no diagnosis (EL‐ND; n = 14), or EL‐language delays (EL‐LD, n = 16). Caregiver utterances were categorized according to the types of pretend and non‐pretend play suggested (e.g., pretending with inanimate objects vs. using objects for their intended function). Pretend utterances were further categorized as related or unrelated to the child's own actions. All caregivers produced proportionately more utterances about complex types of pretend play over time. At 36 months, caregivers of autistic toddlers produced proportionately fewer pretend play utterances, and proportionately fewer pretend play utterances were related to EL‐ASD toddlers' actions compared to their neurotypical peers. These findings highlight bidirectional effects between caregivers and toddlers during play. While EL‐ASD toddlers may provide less frequent opportunities for caregivers to talk about complex types of pretend play, the current study highlights caregivers' high levels of attunement to their toddlers' play skills. Lay Summary: The current study investigated how caregivers of toddlers with and without autism may differ in the ways they talk about pretend play with their children. Our findings demonstrate that caregivers of autistic toddlers spoke about play related to their toddlers' play actions less frequently, and spoke less frequently about pretend play than caregivers of neurotypical toddlers. However, caregivers of toddlers across groups talked about a variety of types of play. Findings highlight that caregivers are highly attuned to their toddlers' play skills regardless of developmental outcome. This may be especially important in informing early interventions using playtime with a caregiver as context for supporting social and language development for children with autism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pulsed electric field (PEF) has emerged as a promising energy source for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, data regarding the in‐vivo effect of PEF energy on erythrocytes during AF ablation procedures are scarce. This study aimed to quantify the impact of PEF energy on erythrocyte damage during AF ablation by assessing specific hemolytic biomarkers. Methods: A total of 60 patients (age: 68 years, males: 72%, serum creatinine: 91 µmol/L) with AF underwent catheter ablation of AF using PEF energy delivered by a multipolar pentaspline Farawave catheter (Farapulse, Boston Scientific, Inc.). Ablation beyond pulmonary vein isolation was performed at the operator's discretion. Peripheral venous blood was sampled for assessing the plasma levels of free hemoglobin (fHb), direct (conjugated) bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatinine before, immediately after the ablation, and on the next day. Results: Following the PEF ablation with duration of [median (interquartile range)] 75 (58, 95) min, with 74 (52, 92) applications and PVI only in 27% of patients, fHb, LDH, and direct bilirubin significantly increased, from 40 (18, 65) to 493 (327, 848) mg/L, from 3.1 (2.6, 3.6) to 6.8 (5.0, 7.9) µkat/L, and from 12 (9, 17) to 28 (16, 44) µmol/L, respectively (all p <.0001). A strong linear correlation was found between the peak fHb and the number of PEF applications (R = 0.81, p <.001). The major hemolysis (defined as fHb >500 mg/L) was predicted by the number of PEF applications with the corresponding area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.934. The optimum cut‐off value of >74 PEF applications predicted the major hemolysis with 89% sensitivity and 87% specificity. Conclusion: Catheter ablation of AF using PEF energy delivered from a pentaspline catheter is associated with significant intravascular hemolysis. More than 74 PEF applications frequently resulted in major hemolysis. However, the critical amount of PEF energy that may cause kidney injury in susceptible patients remains to be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulch pneumonitis is a rare form of acute fungal pneumonitis that can occur in patients with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) following exposure to decaying organic matter. A case study of an 8-year-old girl in Europe highlights the challenges in diagnosing and treating this condition, which can lead to severe respiratory complications. The patient responded well to a combination of antifungal therapy and steroids, ultimately requiring hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for long-term management. The case underscores the importance of timely testing and functional results in diagnosing CGD and optimizing therapeutic decisions. [Extracted from the article]

Aim: To utilize three‐dimensional (3D) geometric morphometry for visualization of the level of facial asymmetry in patients with the oculo‐auriculo‐vertebral spectrum (OAVS). Materials and Methods: Three‐dimensional facial scans of 25 Czech patients with OAVS were processed. The patients were divided into subgroups according to Pruzansky classification. For 13 of them, second 3D facial scans were obtained. The 3D facial scans were processed using geometric morphometry. Soft tissue facial asymmetry in the sagittal plane and its changes in two time spots were visualized using colour‐coded maps with a thermometre‐like scale. Results: Individual facial asymmetry was visualized in all patients as well as the mean facial asymmetry for every Pruzansky subgroup. The mean colour‐coded maps of type I and type IIA subgroups showed no differences in facial asymmetry, more pronounced asymmetry in the middle and the lower facial third was found between type IIA and type IIB (maximum 1.5 mm) and between type IIB and type III (maximum 2 mm). The degree of intensity facial asymmetry in affected middle and lower facial thirds did not change distinctly during the two time spots in all subgroups. Conclusions: The 3D geometric morphometry in OAVS patients could be a useful tool for objective facial asymmetry assessment in patients with OAVS. The calculated colour‐coded maps are illustrative and useful for clinical evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Due to a lack of robust population denominators, Australia is unable to accurately monitor changes in the HIV epidemic for some populations. The ratio of HIV transmission relative to the number of people with HIV (an incidence prevalence ratio, or IPR) can measure such changes. The IPR is measured against an IPR benchmark derived from post‐HIV acquisition life expectancy, to indicate whether an HIV epidemic is shrinking or growing. Using IPRs and Australia‐specific IPR benchmarks, this study aims to describe the Australian HIV epidemic among three groups: men with HIV attributed to male‐to‐male sex, women with HIV and people with HIV attributed to injection drug use. Methods: Using mathematical modelling derived from HIV notifications, cohort and administrative data, IPRs were generated for each of the three groups. These IPRs were compared with IPR benchmarks derived from post‐HIV acquisition mortality estimates using abridged life tables for men, women and people who inject drugs. The IPR benchmark for men was applied to people with HIV attributed to male‐to‐male sex. Trends in the IPR over time were described for each reported population from 2015 to 2022. Results: Overall, the IPR fell by 80%, from 0.040 (range: 0.034−0.045) in 2015 to 0.008 (range: 0.003−0.013) in 2022 and fell below the benchmark (0.022) in 2020. Among people with HIV attributed to male‐to‐male sex, the IPR fell by 85%, from 0.041 (range: 0.034−0.047) in 2015 to 0.006 (range: 0.003−0.024) in 2022 and fell below the benchmark (0.022) in 2020. Among women with HIV, the IPR fell by 56%, from 0.032 (range: 0.026−0.039) in 2015 to 0.014 (range: 0.003−0.029) in 2022 and fell below the benchmark (0.022) in 2019. Among people with HIV attributed to injection drug use, the IPR fell by 61%, from 0.036 (range: 0.022−0.047) in 2015 to 0.014 (range: 0.002−0.057) in 2022 and fell below the benchmark (0.028) in 2019. Conclusions: Australian IPRs in all populations examined have dropped below the level required to sustain the HIV epidemic at current levels. By applying this method in other contexts, the changing scale of HIV epidemics may be better described for populations lacking robust population denominators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the fundamental questions in real‐time functional magnetic resonance imaging neurofeedback (rt‐fMRI NF) investigations is the definition of a suitable neural target for training. Previously, we applied a meta‐analytical approach to define a network‐level target for connectivity‐based rt‐fMRI NF in substance use disorders. The analysis yielded consistent connectivity alterations between the insula and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) as well as the dorsal striatum and the ACC. In the current investigation, we addressed the feasibility of regulating this network and its functional relevance using connectivity‐based neurofeedback. In a double‐blind, sham‐controlled design, 60 nicotine users were randomly assigned to the experimental or sham control group for one NF training session. The preregistered primary outcome was defined as improved inhibitory control performance after regulation of the target network compared to sham control. Secondary outcomes were (1) neurofeedback‐specific changes in functional connectivity of the target network; (2) changes in smoking behavior and impulsivity measures; and (3) changes in resting‐state connectivity profiles. Our results indicated no differences in behavioral measures after receiving feedback from the target network compared to the sham feedback. Target network connectivity was increased during regulation blocks compared to rest blocks, however, the experimental and sham groups could regulate to a similar degree. Accordingly, the observed activation patterns may be related to the mental strategies used during regulation attempts irrespective of the group assignment. We discuss several crucial factors regarding the efficacy of a single‐session connectivity‐based neurofeedback for the target network. This includes high fluctuation in the connectivity values of the target network that may impact controllability of the signal. To our knowledge, this investigation is the first randomized, double‐blind controlled real‐time fMRI study in nicotine users. This raises the question of whether previously observed effects in nicotine users are specific to the neurofeedback signal or reflect more general self‐regulation attempts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non‐pharmacological interventions include physical activity, biofield energy therapy, reiki, Tai chi, and therapeutic touch. However, no reports analyzed the effectiveness of biofield therapy on cognition and motor function performance in adult subjects. The study aimed to investigate the impact of remote biofield energy healing therapy on cognition and motor functioning in adults with self‐perceived neuropsychological impairments. This was a randomized double‐blind clinical trial that involved 114 participants with self‐perceived neuropsychological impairments. The participants were divided into three groups (control, sham control, and biofield intervention). Cognitive and motor function scores were assessed using the NIH Toolbox at baseline (day 0), day 90, and day 180. The biofield treatment group showed significant improvements in language function (p < 0.0001), working memory (p < 0.0001), and episodic memory (p < 0.0001) scores. Other cognitive functions also improved, although not statistically significant. The biofield intervention group also demonstrated significant enhancements (p < 0.05 to p < 0.0001) in locomotion, standing balance, dexterity, grip strength, and muscle endurance. No adverse effects were reported. The results suggest that remote biofield energy therapy is a safe, noninvasive intervention that improves cognitive and motor functions in adults. Further research is needed to understand its clinical benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The enemy release hypothesis states that the invasion success of non‐native species is partly due to their escape from natural enemies, e.g., herbivores. Large‐scale studies of herbivory using multiple species across multiple sites are needed to test the generality of herbivory release in non‐native plants. Location: Europe. Methods: We carried out leaf‐herbivory surveys from 2007 to 2021 in 15 botanical gardens ranging in latitude from 47°N (Switzerland) to 63°N (Norway) to investigate how herbivory levels differed between (i) native and non‐native species, and (ii) native and non‐naturalised or naturalised species. Results: Overall, we found that herbivory levels were lower on non‐native than native species. In addition, we found that non‐naturalised plants suffered less herbivory than natives and that naturalised plants showed similar levels of herbivory to native plants. Main Conclusions: We find broad support for lower herbivory of non‐native plant species compared to natives. However, the stronger reduction in herbivory for non‐naturalised plants suggests that herbivore release may be transient and less pronounced for naturalised non‐native species that have become abundant and integrated into resident communities. This has implications for the management of naturalised non‐native plants, which are performing well in their non‐native ranges despite suffering comparable herbivory levels to native species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro cultures remain crucial for studying the fundamental mechanisms of human T‐cell development. Here, we introduce a novel in vitro cultivation system based on ThymoSpheres (TS): dense spheroids consisting of DLL4‐expressing stromal cells and human hematopoietic precursor cells, in the absence of thymic epithelial cells. These spheroids are subsequently cultured at the air–liquid interphase. TS generate large numbers of mature T cells, are easy to manipulate, scalable, and can be repeatably sampled to monitor T‐cell differentiation. The mature T cells generated from primary human hematopoietic precursor cells were extensively characterized using single‐cell RNA and combined T‐cell receptor (TCR) sequencing. These predominantly CD8α T cells exhibit transcriptional and TCR CDR3 characteristics similar to the recently described human polyclonal αβ unconventional T cell (UTC) lineage. This includes the expression of hallmark genes associated with agonist selection, such as IKZF2 (Helios), and the expression of various natural killer receptors. The TCR repertoire of these UTCs is polyclonal and enriched for CDR3‐associated autoreactive features and early rearrangements of the TCR‐α chain. In conclusion, TS cultures offer an intriguing platform to study the development of this human polyclonal UTC lineage and its inducing selection mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advance care planning (ACP) has been reconceptualized as a health behavior. Action plans (APs), or patient‐directed mini contracts, improve behavior change. However, no prior studies have assessed whether APs can increase ACP documentation and engagement. Methods: We included English and Spanish‐speaking primary care patients from San Francisco, ≥55 years of age, with ≥2 serious or chronic illnesses. Participants were in the intervention arm of the PREPAREforYOURcare.org trial and asked at baseline to choose 1 of 5 actions (e.g., choose a surrogate). At 6 months, we assessed whether participants completed their AP and if completion was associated with demographics, electronic health record (EHR) ACP documentation, and five‐point ACP Engagement Survey scores. We used t‐tests, chi‐squared, multivariate analysis adjusted for baseline ACP and clustering by physician, and qualitative thematic analysis to explore reasons for non‐completion. Results: The mean age of 586 participants was 65 ± 10 years; 44.0% women, 45.9% Spanish‐speaking, 31.4% had limited health literacy, and 43% completed an AP at 6 months; surrogate‐related (47.4%), tell others about medical wishes (33.7%), ask clinicians questions (13.7%), and decide what matters most in life (5.2%). Participants with limited versus adequate health literacy were less likely to complete an AP (25.4% vs 35.9%, p = 0.01). Completing an AP was associated with greater ACP EMR documentation 49.8% vs 35.6%, p < 0.001 (adjusted odds ratio: 2.06; 95% CI [1.43–2.97]) and engagement (adjusted five‐point scores [3.69; 95% CI 3.57–3.81 vs 3.10; 95% CI: 2.98–3.21], p < 0.001). Themes for non‐completion included not being ready and logistical issues (e.g., surrogate deceased). Conclusions: Among English and Spanish‐speaking older adults, creating an ACP AP resulted in greater documentation and engagement. APs may help facilitate ACP behavior change as part of effective ACP interventions. Additional support may be needed for patients with limited health literacy and those facing logistical barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Site‐specific weed management (SSWM) is increasingly employed to reduce herbicide inputs. Incorporating functional traits of weed species allows for the selection of SSWM methods that effectively reduce the abundance of weeds with a high competitive potential (disservice) while preserving weeds that provide beneficial ecosystem services (service). In this study, we aim to assess relevant weed functional traits and translate this information into a spatial trait distribution map for weed (dis‐)service provision. The distribution of weed abundance in a field was recorded using a spatial grid. Data on functional traits for the recorded weed species were extracted from published datasets and combined into the two variables, service and disservice. Individual traits (service/disservice) were weighted for each pixel of the weed distribution map based on the number of individual plants per species. Principal component analysis was employed to generate independent variables to describe the potential for service and disservice provision. As a result, two (dis‐)service trait‐based distribution maps were generated: one highlights field areas that provide enhanced ecological services, while the other displays areas with a high disservice potential. The results show that around 61% of the area in the field had a high service potential. The area with a high disservice was slightly higher than the half of the area with a high service, while about 32% of the field has both high service and disservice potential in the same area. This study presents a spatially explicit approach to incorporate information on weed functional traits into SSWM approaches targeted at reducing weed competition while at the same time enhancing weed functional diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]