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Application of the global Gauss–Bonnet theorem for the prediction of changes in Gaussian curvature for double curvature laminate geometries due to shrinkage is developed for non‐isometric deformation states where in surface area change accompanies changes in curvature. The transition between isometric and non‐isometric deformation is strongly influenced by the ratio of the principal radii of curvature of the double curved surface and a relationship is proposed by the authors to accommodate the transition. Examples for the radii of curvature ratios of 2, 3, and 4 are compared to results from finite‐element simulations and the developed relationship is shown to be accurate within 0.55%. Furthermore, these results demonstrate that isometric deformation state can be taken as an adequate representation for double curvature toroidal laminate geometries of ρ2/ρ1 >10 and the class of materials studied in this work. Highlights: Shrinkage induced deformation in multi‐curvature composite laminates is a recurring issue in polymer composite manufacturing.Thermal, crystallization and cure shrinkage are the dominant sources of shrinkage deformation in polymer composite systems.Isometric deformation of multi‐curvature, symmetric laminates composite is defined by the absence of membrane strain.The Gauss–Bonnet theorem provides a platform for determining radii of curvature changes in multi‐curvature symmetric laminates,Non‐isometric deformation of symmetric laminates can be treated by the Gauss–Bonnet theorem for radii of curvature ratios that correspond to geometric self‐constraint. The above highlights yield insight into the anticipated geometric distortions due to shrinkage in polymer composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medications with sedative or anticholinergic properties should be prescribed with caution in those with cognitive complaints. This is particularly relevant in people ageing with an intellectual disability (ID). Higher drug burden index (DBI) scores are associated with increased frailty and falls and reduced quality of life in older people and increased risk of adverse effects (daytime somnolence, constipation) in those with ID. While previous studies have shown that the ID population has higher rates of drug burden and a higher propensity to be prescribed an antipsychotic than the general population, the degree of burden has not been assessed specifically in those with ID and cognitive complaints. Methods: We assessed drug burden in a cohort of sequential referrals to a national memory service for people with ID. All patients were referred for assessment of cognitive complaints (self‐reported or caregiver‐reported problems with memory or cognition). DBI was calculated individually for each participant, and the impact of aetiology of ID, level of ID, age, psychiatric/neurological comorbidities and diagnostic outcome on DBI scores was assessed. Results: The study population was 58.6% female with a median age of 55 years and aetiology of ID was Down syndrome (DS) in 71.3%. Consensus diagnosis was Alzheimer's dementia in 40.2%, mild cognitive impairment in 29.9% and cognitively unimpaired from baseline in 25.3%. Medication use was high with 95.4% taking medications, with a median number of medications of 4 (interquartile range 4) and a rate of polypharmacy (≥5 medications) of 51.7%. Overall, 65.5% were exposed to sedative or anticholinergic medications with 39.1% exposed to a clinically significant DBI score >1. Those with psychiatric comorbidities, non‐DS aetiology or epilepsy were significantly more likely to have a DBI score >1. Conclusions: People with ID and incipient cognitive complaints have a high level of drug burden, which concerningly exceeds that of the general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an effective treatment for people with drug‐resistant epilepsy. However, its mechanisms of action are poorly understood, including which nerve fibers are activated in humans during VNS in typical clinical settings and which are required for clinical efficacy. In particular, there have been no intraneural recordings of vagus nerve fiber activation in awake humans undergoing chronic VNS. In this study, for the first time, we report recordings from the vagus nerve in this setting. Methods: The recordings were performed using a sterile tungsten microelectrode inserted percutaneously into the cervical vagus nerve under ultrasound guidance. The clinical VNS systems were used to deliver stimulation while activity in the vagus nerve was recorded. Results: In addition to activating myelinated axons at low currents, we provide evidence that VNS can also activate unmyelinated C fibers in the vagus nerve at currents <1 mA. Conclusions: These results add to our understanding of how VNS exerts its beneficial effects in drug‐resistant epilepsy. Plain Language Statement: Here we describe for the first time, electrical recordings from the vagus nerve in awake drug‐resistant epilepsy patients with an implanted vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) device. We found that the VNS device was able to activate both myelinated and unmyelinated fibers within the vagus nerve, which contributes to our understanding of how VNS works in the context of drug‐resistant epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT When a species invades a novel environment, it must bridge the environment–phenotype mismatch in its new range to persist. Contemporary invasion biology research has focused on the role that trait variation and adaptation, and their underlying genomic factors, play in a species' adaptive potential, and thus facilitating invasion. Empirical studies have provided valuable insights into phenotypes that persist and arise in novel environments, coupled with ‘omics tools that further the understanding of the contributions of genomic architecture in species establishment. Particularly, the use of transcriptomics to explore the role of plasticity in the initial stages of an invasion is growing. Here, we assess the role of various mechanisms relating to regulation and functional adaptation (often measured via the transcriptome) that support trait‐specific plasticity in invasive species, allowing phenotypic variability without directly altering genomic diversity. First, we present a comprehensive review of the studies utilising transcriptomics in invasion biology. Second, we collate the evidence for and against the role of a range of regulatory processes in contributing to invasive species plasticity. Finally, we pose open questions in invasion biology where the use of transcriptome data may be valuable, as well as discuss the methodological limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article from the Medical Journal of Australia explores the use of Medicare-subsidised mental health services by children in New South Wales during their first 15 years of life. The study found that 26.9% of children had utilized these services before turning 15, with varying rates of service use based on demographic factors such as sex, Indigenous status, socioeconomic position, and geographic location. The research highlights disparities in access to mental health care and calls for further efforts to ensure equitable access for all young people in Australia. [Extracted from the article]

INTRODUCTION: Small molecules and antibodies are being developed to lower amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides. METHODS: We describe MEDI1814, a fully human high‐affinity monoclonal antibody selective for Aβ42, the pathogenic self‐aggregating species of Aβ. RESULTS: MEDI1814 reduces free Aβ42 without impacting Aβ40 in the cerebrospinal fluid of rats and cynomolgus monkeys after systemic administration. MEDI1814 administration to patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD; n = 57) in single or repeat doses up to 1800 mg intravenously or 200 mg subcutaneously was associated with a favorable safety and tolerability profile. No cases of amyloid‐related imaging abnormalities were observed. Predictable dose‐proportional changes in serum exposures for MEDI1814 were observed across cohorts. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis demonstrated central nervous system penetration of MEDI1814. Pharmacodynamic data showed dose‐dependent suppression of free Aβ42, increases in total (bound and free) Aβ42, but no change in total Aβ40 in CSF across doses. DISCUSSION: MEDI1814 offers a differentiated approach to impacting Aβ in AD via selective reduction of free Aβ42. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since their inception in 1975, the Department of Veterans Affairs Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Centers (GRECCs) have served as incubators of innovation in geriatrics. Their contributions to the VA mission were last reviewed in 2012. Herein, we describe the continuing impact of GRECCs in research, clinical, and educational areas, focusing on the period between 2018 and 2022. GRECC research spans the continuum from bench to bedside, with a growing research portfolio notable for highly influential publications. GRECC education connects healthcare professions trainees and practicing clinicians, as well as Veterans and their caregivers, to engaging learning experiences. Clinical advancements, including age‐friendly care, span the continuum of care and leverage technology to link disparate geographical sites. GRECCs are uniquely positioned to serve older adults given their alignment with the largest integrated health system in the United States and their integration with academic health centers. As such, the GRECCs honor Veterans as they age by building VA capacity to care for the increasing number of aging Veterans seeking care from VA. GRECC advancements also benefit non‐VA healthcare systems, their academic affiliates, and non‐Veteran older adults. GRECCs make invaluable contributions to advancing geriatric and gerontological science, training healthcare professionals, and developing innovative models of geriatric care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to compare the demographic differences between Māori and NZ Europeans with neck of femur fracture (NOF), identify any differences in management, surgical and post‐op care and outcomes. Methods: All cases in New Zealand between 2018 and 2020 were collected from the Australia & New Zealand Hip Fracture Registry (ANZHFR). Basic demographics, management factors, and surgical factors were collected. Key outcomes at 120 days post‐fracture included walking status, residential status and survival. Univariate analysis was performed to compare differences in demographics, and management factors between ethnicities. Multivariable analysis was conducted on key outcome comparisons and management differences. Results: Data from 9432 patients were analyzed. 305 patients were Māori (3.2%). Age‐standardized incidence between Māori and NZ European were similar (103 (95% CI 91–115) vs. 95 (95% CI 92–99)/100 000/year). Māori had a longer time to theatre (38.7 vs. 34.5 h, P = 0.01). The only difference between Māori and NZ European in the key outcomes was private residential status (67% vs. 62% P < 0.01). There was no difference in survival (87% vs. 87% P = 0.68) and decrease in walking status (0.43 vs. 0.41 P = 0.99). Following multivariable analysis, Māori ethnicity was an independent risk factor for time to theatre >48 hours after adjustment for other factors (OR 1.44 (95% CI 1.07, 1.93), P = 0.016). Discussion: Although Māori were a small percentage of patients with NOFs, there was similar age‐standardized incidence compared to NZ Europeans. While there were no differences in key outcomes, identifying reasons for longer time to theatre for Māori patients is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detecting pathogens in endangered animal populations is vital for understanding and mitigating threats to their survival. The critically endangered western ground parrot (Pezoporus flaviventris, WGP), with a population as low as 150 individuals in Australia, faces an imminent risk of extinction. Despite this urgency, research on viral pathogens in this species remains limited. This study aimed to identify and characterise viruses present in faecal samples from seven individual WGP using a viral metagenomic approach. Analysis of the sequenced datasets revealed the presence of a novel virus belonging to the Parvoviridae family, named psittaciform chaphamaparvovirus 7 (PsChPV‐7). The genome of PsChPV‐7 contains typical structural and functional gene sequences found in Parvoviridae but is highly divergent, indicating its classification as a distinct species. Phylogenetic analysis placed PsChPV‐7 within a unique sub‐clade of the Chaphamaparvovirus genus, suggesting its evolutionary significance as an ancient lineage within this group. These findings may contribute to the development of strategic management and biosecurity plans aimed at conserving this endangered WGP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute stress normally engages descending brain pathways to produce an antinociceptive response, known as stress‐induced analgesia. Paradoxically, these descending pain modulatory pathways are also involved in the maintenance of the abnormal pain associated with chronic neuropathic pain. It remains unclear how stress‐induced analgesia is affected by neuropathic pain states. We therefore examined the impact of a chronic constriction nerve‐injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain on restraint stress‐induced analgesia in C57BL/6 mice. Thirty minutes of restraint stress produced analgesia in the hotplate thermal nociceptive assay that was less in CCI compared to control mice who underwent a sham‐surgery. In sham but not CCI mice, stress‐induced analgesia was reduced by the opioid receptor antagonist naltrexone. The cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist AM281 did not affect stress‐induced analgesia in either sham or CCI mice. Low‐dose pre‐treatment with the dual fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor JZL195 increased stress‐induced analgesia in CCI but not sham mice. The JZL195 enhancement of stress‐induced analgesia in CCI mice was abolished by AM281 but was unaffected by naltrexone. These findings indicate that the acute opioid‐mediated analgesic response to a psychological stressor is disrupted in a nerve‐injury model of neuropathic pain. Importantly, this impairment of stress‐induced analgesia was rescued by blockade of endocannabinoid breakdown via a cannabinoid CB1 receptor dependent mechanism. These findings suggest that subthreshold treatment with endocannabinoid degradation blockers could be used to alleviate the disruption of endogenous pain control systems in a neuropathic pain state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic neuropathic pain is a debilitating pain syndrome caused by damage to the nervous system that is poorly served by current medications. Given these problems, clinical studies have pursued extracts of the plant Cannabis sativa as alternative treatments for this condition. The vast majority of these studies have examined cannabinoids which contain the psychoactive constituent delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While there have been some positive findings, meta‐analyses of this clinical work indicates that this effectiveness is limited and hampered by side‐effects. This review focuses on how recent preclinical studies have predicted the clinical limitations of THC‐containing cannabis extracts, and importantly, point to how they might be improved. This work highlights the importance of targeting channels and receptors other than cannabinoid CB1 receptors which mediate many of the side‐effects of cannabis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: Vascular epiphytes of tropical montane cloud forests are vulnerable to climate change, particularly as cloud bases elevate and reduce atmospheric inputs to the system. However, studies have generally focused on epiphytes in contiguous forests, with little research being done on epiphytes on isolated pasture trees. We investigated water relations of pasture‐tree epiphytes at three sites located below and above the elevation of the average cloud base in Monteverde, Costa Rica. Methods: We measured sap velocity and four microclimate variables in both the dry and wet season of 2018. We also measured functional traits, including pressure volume (PV) curves, predawn/midday water potential, and various lab‐based water relations traits. We used linear mixed models to assess the correlation between microclimate and sap velocity in both seasons and ANOVA to assess the variation in PV curve and water potential variables. Results: The turgor loss point generally increased from the wettest to driest site. However, this trend was driven primarily by the increasing prevalence of leaf succulence at drier sites. Microclimatic variables correlated strongly with sap velocity in the wet season, but low soil moisture availability caused this correlation to break down during the dry season. Conclusions: Our results emphasize the vulnerability of cloud forest epiphytes to rising cloud bases. This vulnerability may be more severe in pasture trees that lack the potential buffer of surrounding forest, but additional research that directly compares the canopy microclimate conditions between forest and pasture trees is needed to confirm this possibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Very low‐field MR has emerged as a promising complementary device to high‐field MRI scanners, offering several advantages. One of the key benefits is that very low‐field scanners are generally more portable and affordable to purchase and maintain, making them an attractive option for medical facilities looking to reduce costs. Very low‐field MRI systems also have lower RF power deposition, making them safer and less likely to cause tissue heating or other safety concerns. They are also simpler to maintain, as they do not require cooling agents such as liquid helium. However, these portable MR scanners are impacted by temperature, lower magnetic field strength, and inhomogeneity, resulting in images with lower signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and higher geometric distortions. It is essential to investigate and tabulate the variations in these parameters to establish bounds so that subsequent in vivo studies and deployment of these portable systems can be well informed. Purpose: The aim of this work is to investigate the repeatability of image quality metrics such as SNR and geometrical distortion at 0.05 T over 10 days and three sessions per day. Methods: We acquired repeatability data over 10 days with three sessions per day. The measurements included temperature, humidity, transmit frequency, off‐resonance maps, and 3D turbo spin echo (TSE) images of an in vitro phantom. This resulted in a protocol with 11 sequences. We also acquired a 3 T data set for reference. The image quality metrics included computing SNR and eccentricity (to assess geometrical distortion) to investigate the repeatability of 0.05 T image quality. The image reconstruction included drift correction, k‐space filtering, and off‐resonance correction. We computed the experimental parameters' coefficient of variation (CV) and the resulting image quality metrics to assess repeatability. We have explored the impact of electromagnetic interference (EMI) on image quality in very low‐field MRI. The investigation involved varying both the distance and amplitude of the EMI‐producing coil from the signal generator to analyze their effects on image quality. Results: The range of temperature measured during the study was within 1.5 °C. The off‐resonance maps acquired before and after the 3D TSE showed similar hotspots and were changed mainly by a global constant. The SNR measurements were highly repeatable across sessions and over the 10 days, quantified by a CV of 6.7%. The magnetic field inhomogeneity effects quantified by eccentricity showed a CV of 13.7%, but less than 5.1% in two of the three sessions over 10 days. The use of conjugate phase reconstruction mitigated geometrical distortion artifacts. Temperature and humidity did not significantly affect SNR or mean frequency drift within the ranges of these environmental factors investigated. The EMI experiment showed that as the amplitude increased the SNR decreased, and concurrently the root mean square of the background increased with a rise in EMI amplitude or a reduction in distance. Conclusions: We found that humidity and temperature in the range investigated did not impact SNR or frequency. Based on the CV values computed session‐wise and for the overall study, our findings indicate high repeatability for SNR and magnetic field homogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Identifying patient‐, facility‐, and environment‐level factors that influence the initiation and retention of comprehensive lifestyle management interventions (CLMI) for urban and rural Veterans could improve obesity treatment and reach at Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities. Aims: This study identified factors at these various levels that predicted treatment engagement, retention, and weight management among urban and rural Veterans. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 631,325 Veterans was designed using VA databases to identify Veterans with class II and III obesity during 2015–2017. Primary outcomes were initiation of CLMI, bariatric surgery, or obesity pharmacotherapy within 1 year of index date. Secondary outcomes included treatment retention and successful weight loss. Generalized linear mixed models were used to evaluate the relationships between factors and obesity‐related outcomes, with rurality differences assessed through interaction terms. Results: Patient characteristics associated with increased odds of initiating CLMI included female sex (p < 0.001), black race (p < 0.001), sleep apnea (p < 0.001), mood disorder (p < 0.001), and use of medications associated with weight loss (p < 0.001) or weight gain (p < 0.001). Facility use of telehealth was associated with greater odds of CLMI initiation in urban Veterans (p < 0.001) but lower retention in both populations (p = 0.003). Routine consideration of pharmacotherapy was associated with higher CLMI initiation. Environmental characteristics associated with increased odds of CLMI initiation included percent of population foreign born (OR = 1.03 per 10% increase; p < 0.001), percent black (p < 0.001), and high walkability index (p < 0.001). The relationship between total population and CLMI initiation differed by rurality, as greater population was associated with lower odds of CLMI initiation in urban areas (OR: 0.99 per 1000 population; p < 0.001), but higher odds in rural areas (OR:1.01, p = 0.01). Veterans in the south were less likely to initiate CLMI and had lower retention (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Treatment and retention of CLMI among Veterans remain low, highlighting areas for improvement to expand its reach both urban and rural Veterans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Strictures are the most common biliary complication after liver transplantation, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is considered the gold standard in its management. Failure to cross the biliary anastomosis requires a repeated attempt with ERCP, referral for percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) or surgery. We present our experience with the digital single operator cholangioscope (D‐SOC) in achieving guidewire access in a liver transplant cohort with difficult biliary strictures who have failed conventional ERCP methods. Methods: This was a retrospective study involving two adult liver transplant centers servicing the two most populated states in Australia. Deceased‐donor liver transplant recipients undergoing D‐SOC for biliary strictures who have failed conventional methods to achieve biliary access were included. Results: Between July 2017 to April 2022, eighteen patients underwent D‐SOC after failing to achieve guidewire placement through standard ERCP techniques. Thirteen out of eighteen (72%) had successful guidewire placement with index D‐SOC. Five of eighteen patients (28%) had unsuccessful guidewire placement with D‐SOC. In two of these patients, use of D‐SOC informed further endoscopic management, with one avoiding PTC and the other avoiding surgery. Two of the five patients required PTC and one patient was left unstented. Three patients developed post D‐SOC cholangitis. Conclusions: D‐SOC is effective at achieving guidewire access in post‐liver transplant patients who fail conventional ERCP techniques and should be considered in the treatment algorithm as a step before PTC and surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Data on post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) adverse events and readmission rates in liver transplantation (LT) patients remain scarce. This study determined the 30‐day procedure‐related readmission rate following ERCP in an LT cohort at an Australian tertiary academic center. Methods: All unplanned readmissions within 30 days following ERCP in orthotopic LT patients between December 2012 and August 2021 were retrospectively identified. Demographic data, procedure variables, and readmission characteristics were also collected. Results: Forty‐five procedure‐related readmissions were identified (3.3%) from a total of 1369 ERCP procedures. This included 33 cases of cholangitis (2.4%), 7 cases of nonspecific abdominal pain (0.5%), 5 cases of mild post‐ERCP pancreatitis (0.5%), and 3 cases of bleeding (0.2%). No procedure‐related mortality was observed. Conclusion: The procedure‐related readmission rate following ERCP in this LT cohort was 3.3%, which is likely lower than comparable studies carried out on the overall population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevated circulating branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA) have been linked with the severity of insulin resistance across numerous populations, implicating heightened BCAA metabolism as a potential therapy for insulin resistance. Recently, the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) inhibitor Valsartan (VAL) was identified as a potent inhibitor of branched‐chain alpha‐keto acid dehydrogenase kinase (BCKDK), a negative regulator of BCAA metabolism. This work investigated the effect of VAL on myotube metabolism and insulin sensitivity under both insulin sensitive and insulin resistant conditions. C2C12 myotubes were treated with or without VAL at 8 µM for 24 h, both with and without hyperinsulinemic‐induced insulin resistance. Oxygen consumption and extracellular acidification were used to measure mitochondrial and glycolytic metabolism, respectively. Gene expression was assessed via qRT‐PCR, and insulin sensitivity was assessed via Western blot. Insulin resistance significantly reduced both basal and peak mitochondrial function which were rescued to control levels by concurrent VAL. Changes in mitochondrial function occurred without substantial changes in mitochondrial content or related gene expression. Insulin sensitivity and glycolytic metabolism were unaffected by VAL, as was lipogenic signaling and lipid content. Additionally, both VAL and insulin resistance depressed Bckdha expression. Interestingly, an interaction effect was observed for extracellular isoleucine, valine, and total BCAA (but not leucine), suggesting VAL may alter BCAA utilization in an insulin sensitivity‐dependent manner. Insulin resistance appears to suppress mitochondrial function in a myotube model which can be rescued by VAL. Further research will be required to explore the implications of these findings in more complex models. Significance Statement: The angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) inhibitor Valsartan rescued reduced mitochondrial function during insulin resistance in a myotube model of skeletal muscle. These findings provide proof‐of‐concept data suggesting Valsartan may provide metabolic benefits beyond blood pressure lowering effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objectives: The HepHIV 2023 Conference, held in Madrid in November 2023, highlighted how Europe is not on track to meet the United Nations (UN) sustainable development goals and Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) targets. This article presents the outcomes of the conference, which focus on ways to improve testing and linkage to care for HIV, viral hepatitis, and other sexually transmitted infections. HIV‐related stigma and discrimination, a major barrier to progress, was a key concept of the conference and on the agenda of the Spanish Presidency of the European Union. Methods: The HepHIV 2023 organizing committee, alongside the Spanish Ministry of Health, oversaw the conference organization and prepared the scientific programme based on abstract rankings. Key outcomes are derived from conference presentations and discussions. Results: Conference presentations covered the obstacles that HIV‐related stigma and discrimination continue to pose to access to services, models for data collection to better monitor progress in the future, and examples of legislative action that can be taken at national levels. Diversification of testing approaches was also highlighted, to reach key populations, (e.g. migrant populations), to increase testing offered in healthcare settings (e.g. emergency departments), and to account for different stages of epidemics across the region. Conclusion: With a strong call for intensified action to address the impact of HIV‐related stigma and discrimination on testing uptake, the conference concluded that strengthened collaboration is required between governments and implementers around testing and linkage to care. There is also an ongoing need to ensure sustainable political commitment and appropriate resource allocation to address gaps and inequalities in access for key populations and to focus on the implementation of integrated responses to HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conjectured squarefree density of an integral polynomial P$\mathcal {P}$ in s$s$ variables is an Euler product SP$\mathfrak {S}_{\mathcal {P}}$ which can be considered as a product of local densities. We show that a necessary and sufficient condition for SP$\mathfrak {S}_{\mathcal {P}}$ to be 0 when P∈Z(X1,...,Xs)$\mathcal {P}\in \mathbb {Z}(X_1,\ldots,X_s)$ is a polynomial in s$s$ variables over the integers, is that either there is a prime p$p$ such that the values of P$\mathcal {P}$ at all integer points are divisible by p2$p^2$ or the polynomial is not squarefree as a polynomial. We also show that generally the upper squarefree density DP$\mathfrak {D}_{\mathcal {P}}$ satisfies DP⩽SP$\mathfrak {D}_{\mathcal {P}}\leqslant \mathfrak {S}_{\mathcal {P}}$. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Memory is one of the most sensitive markers of cognitive compromise in people with new‐onset epilepsy. Nonetheless, around half of these cases score within the normal range on standard memory testing. Here we explore whether memory retention at a 1‐week delay reveals otherwise undetected memory compromise in such individuals, and how it relates to subjective memory complaints and mood. Methods: Using a prospective design, 38 adults with new‐onset epilepsy underwent baseline memory screening via telephone using an abbreviated Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT). Psychological screening occurred via online questionnaires. One week later, without forewarning, participants completed three follow‐up memory tasks. Of particular focus, we explored longer‐term memory performances and forgetting trajectories in those individuals (n = 23) who demonstrated normal memory performances (scores >10th percentile) at baseline (30‐min delay). Outcomes were compared to 32 healthy controls, matched for age, sex, and education. Results: As a group, people with epilepsy performed worse than controls on all memory measures, with 44 percent impaired at baseline testing. Of those unimpaired at baseline, the rate and volume of information loss over 1 week was significantly greater than for controls. Contextual memory performance at 1 week was also significantly poorer for people with epilepsy. At the individual level, the prevalence of impaired forgetting was not significantly different between patients and controls. Subjective memory complaints were not related to any objective tests but were strongly related to self‐reported mood and anxiety symptoms. Significance: People with new‐onset epilepsy show reduced memory at short and extended intervals. For those showing normal memory at baseline, information does appear to be forgotten more quickly than in healthy controls, though the effect is not large. The findings indicate that while extended delay memory testing is not essential in all new epilepsy cases, it could provide useful information for particular individuals. Plain Language Statement: Memory problems are common in people with epilepsy shortly after seizure onset, however, many individuals still show normal memory performances on standard neuropsychological testing. Through testing memory at an extended timepoint (1 week), our study found that on average, these individuals showed a slightly quicker rate of forgetting over a 1‐week period than people without a brain condition. Self‐reported memory complaints in people with new epilepsy were unrelated to their actual memory skills on testing at short and long timepoints but were rather linked to lower mood and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging technologies of artificial intelligence (AI) and automated decision‐making (ADM) promise to advance many industries. Healthcare is a key locus for new developments, where operational improvements are magnified by the bigger‐picture promise of improved care and outcomes for patients. Forming the zeitgeist of contemporary sociotechnical innovation in healthcare, media portrayals of these technologies can shape how they are implemented, experienced and understood across healthcare systems. This article identifies current applications of AI and ADM within Australian healthcare contexts and analyses how these technologies are being portrayed within news and industry media. It offers a categorisation of leading applications of AI and ADM: monitoring and tracking, data management and analysis, cloud computing, and robotics. Discussing how AI and ADM are depicted in relation to health and care practices, it examines the sense of promise that is enlivened in these representations. The article concludes by considering the implications of promissory discourses for how technologies are understood and integrated into practices and sites of healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objective Methods Results Conclusions Seed amplification assay (SAA) testing has been developed as a biomarker for the diagnosis of α‐synuclein‐related neurodegenerative disorders.The objective of this study was to assess the rate of α‐synuclein SAA positivity in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal syndrome (CBS) and to analyze clinical and pathological features of SAA‐positive and ‐negative cases.A total of 96 cerebrospinal fluid samples from clinically diagnosed PSP (n = 59) and CBS (n = 37) cases were analyzed using α‐synuclein SAA.Six of 59 (10.2%) PSP cases were α‐synuclein SAA positive, including one case who was MSA‐type positive. An exploratory analysis showed that PSP cases who were Parkinson's disease–type positive were older and had a shorter disease duration compared with SAA‐negative cases. In contrast, 11 of 37 (29.7%) CBS cases were α‐synuclein SAA positive, including two cases who were MSA‐type positive.Our results suggest that α‐synuclein seeds can be detected in PSP and CBS using a cerebrospinal fluid α‐synuclein SAA, and in PSP this may impact on clinical course. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Redox and metabolic processes are tightly coupled in both physiological and pathological conditions. In cancer, their integration occurs at multiple levels and is characterized by synchronized reprogramming both in the tumor tissue and its specific but heterogeneous microenvironment. In breast cancer, the principal microenvironment is the cancer‐associated adipose tissue (CAAT). Understanding how the redox‐metabolic reprogramming becomes coordinated in human breast cancer is imperative both for cancer prevention and for the establishment of new therapeutic approaches. This review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge of the redox profiles and regulation of intermediary metabolism in breast cancer while considering the tumor and CAAT of breast cancer as a unique Warburg's pseudo‐organ. As cancer is now recognized as a systemic metabolic disease, we have paid particular attention to the cell‐specific redox‐metabolic reprogramming and the roles of estrogen receptors and circadian rhythms, as well as their crosstalk in the development, growth, progression, and prognosis of breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Written from the perspective of a social historian trained in the French tradition, this article investigates how the study of nineteenth‐century Irish migrations to Britain contributes to the study of the nature of "religious archives." In France, the writing of social history during the twentieth century was heavily influenced by sociologists and their view that religious facts were cultural and social phenomena. This outtake was also encouraged by the classification of ecclesiastical archives which were transferred to State repositories and organised according to lay and secular categories after the French Revolution. This article explores nineteenth‐century Roman Catholic schooling in Scotland as a case study. Since 1918, Scottish Catholic school records have been transferred to public repositories and categorised in "secular" fashion. Investigating the case of religious schools means looking for secular matters in ecclesiastical school records and clerical notes (the diaries of Father Michael Condon, d. 1902, are an exceptional source on that matter). In the end, this article argues that there can be no strict separation in the historical exploration of the past between the use of "religious" and "secular" archives. Ecclesiastical preoccupations never excluded worldly concerns, and down‐to‐earth considerations were an integral part of parish and school lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deceased donor organs for transplantation are costly. Expenses include donor assessment, pre‐operative care of acceptable donors, surgical organ recovery, preservation and transport, and other costs. US Organ Procurement Organizations (OPOs) serve defined geographic areas in which each OPO has exclusive organ recovery responsibilities including detailed reporting of costs. We sought to determine the costs of procuring deceased donor livers by examining reported organ acquisition costs from OPO cost reports. Using 6 years of US OPO cost report data for each OPO (2013–2018), we determined the average cost of recovering a viable (i.e., transplanted) liver for each of the 51 independent US OPOs. We examined predictors of these costs including the number of livers procured, the percent of nonviable livers, direct procurement costs, coordinator salaries, professional education, and local cost of living. A cost curve estimated the relationship between the cost of livers and the number of locally procured livers. The average cost of procured livers by individual OPO‐year varied widely from $11 393 to $65 556 (average $31 659) over the six study years. An increase in the overall number of procured livers was associated with lower direct costs, administrative, and procurement overhead costs, but this association differed for imported livers. Cost per local liver decreased linearly for each additional liver, while importing more livers was only cost saving until 200 livers, with imported livers costing more ($39K vs. $31.7K). The largest predictor of variation in cost was the aggregate of direct costs (e.g., hospital costs) to recover the organ (57%). Cost increases were 2.5% per year (+$766/year). This information may be valuable in determining how OPOs might improve service to transplant centers and the patients they serve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multilobular tumour of bone is a rare, slow growing, locally aggressive malignancy in dogs. Surgical resection of the primary tumour is currently the recommended treatment for local disease control. Wide or definitive extent excision to obtain a histologically complete excision is ideal when possible; however, wide excision can be challenging for caudally located calvarial tumours in which the excision will include removal of the confluence of the two transverse sinuses and dorsal sagittal sinus. Acute sacrifice to the dorsal sagittal sinus has the potential for fatal cerebral oedema. To manage this risk, gradual occlusion of the dorsal sagittal sinus before wide excision of caudally located multilobular tumour of bones has been successfully reported in two patients. The current case report documents another successfully managed case with this technique, and includes the computed tomography angiographic findings during the gradual occlusion process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Seroprevalence studies have proven to be an important tool in tracking the progression of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. The aim of this study was to measure the seroprevalence of antibodies to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in the general population of Kosovo by gender, age group and region and among asymptomatic people. Method: The Institute of Public Health of Kosovo conducted a cross‐sectional population‐based survey, aligned with the protocols of the WHO Unity Studies, from the beginning of May to the end of June 2021. Results: The survey covered a total of 2204 people with a response rate of 91.8% (41.9% [923] males and 51.2% [1281] females). In May to June 2021, the prevalence of antibodies in the overall population (IgG antibodies ≥ 1.1) was 37.0%. Seroprevalence was 34.4% in men and 38.9% in women (p < 0.05), with the highest percentage (48.7%) found in the 60–69 years' age group. The overall prevalence of acute IgM antibodies (IgM ≥ 1.1) was 1% (95% CI: 0.7%–1.5%), with no significant difference between genders and the highest prevalence among participants of 60–69 years of age (1.6%; 95% CI: 0.7%–3.6%). Conclusion: A high prevalence of antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2 was found in Kosovo before the start of the vaccination campaign. However, the results of the survey suggested that, by the end of June 2021, a desirable level of protection from the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus had not been reached. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Sleep quality is essential to biopsychosocial functioning, yet there remains limited longitudinal research on sleep and mental or social well‐being within low‐ or middle‐income countries. This study utilised longitudinal cohort data from a community‐based empowerment programme in Meru County, Kenya to assess cross‐lagged correlations between sleep disturbance, social support, symptoms of depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress. Participants (n = 373; 92% women; age range 18–86 years) who reported more sleep disturbance at T1 reported significantly more symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, and significantly less social support at T2 (average 11 weeks later), controlling for all within‐time correlations across measures, within‐measure correlations across time, and sociodemographic background characteristics. The findings are consistent with research across high‐income countries, underscoring the need for more contextualised research into sleep behaviours across low‐ and middle‐income countries. The findings may inform interventions to increase mental and social well‐being within Kenya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrients can shape ecological interactions but remain poorly integrated into ecological networks. Concepts such as nutrient‐specific foraging nevertheless have the potential to expose the mechanisms structuring complex ecological systems. Nutrients also present an opportunity to predict dynamic processes, such as interaction rewiring and extinction cascades, and increase the accuracy of network analyses.Here, we propose the concept of nutritional networks. By integrating nutritional data into ecological networks, we envisage significant advances to our understanding of ecological processes from individual to ecosystem scales.We show that networks can be constructed with nutritional data to illuminate how nutrients structure ecological interactions in natural systems through an empirical example. Throughout, we identify fundamental ecological hypotheses that can be explored in a nutritional network context, alongside methods for resolving those networks.Nutrients influence the structure and complexity of ecological networks through mechanistic processes and concepts including nutritional niche differentiation, functional responses, landscape diversity, ecological invasions and ecosystem robustness. Future research on ecological networks should consider nutrients when investigating the drivers of network structure and function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) can infect a broad range of animal species and has been associated with severe disease in some taxa. Few studies have evaluated optimal strategies to mitigate the risk to susceptible zoo animals. This study evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of a protein‐based veterinary SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine (SpikeVet™) in zoo animals. Two to three doses of SpikeVet™ were administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously 3–4 weeks apart to 354 zoo animals representing 38 species. SpikeVet™ was very well tolerated across all species. Minor adverse effects were observed in 1.69% of animals vaccinated, or 1.04% of vaccine doses administered. Preliminary immunogenicity analyses in representative carnivores (meerkats, lions) and an artiodactylid (domestic goat) showed SpikeVet™‐immunized animals developed serum antibodies able to neutralize a range of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, including the vaccine‐homologous Wuhan and Mu variants, as well as vaccine‐heterologous Omicron BA.2 and XBB.1 strains. Prior to vaccination, all eight lions were seropositive for Wuhan strain by surrogate viral neutralization testing, suggesting past infection with SARS‐CoV‐2 or cross‐reactive antibodies generated by another closely related coronavirus. These results from a range of zoo species support the ongoing development of SpikeVet™ as a safe and effective veterinary SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The EQUIPPED (Enhancing Quality of Prescribing Practices for Older Adults Discharged from the Emergency Department) medication safety program is an evidence‐informed quality improvement initiative to reduce potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) prescribed by Emergency Department (ED) providers to adults aged 65 and older at discharge. We aimed to scale‐up this successful program using (1) a traditional implementation model at an ED with a novel electronic medical record and (2) a new hub‐and‐spoke implementation model at three new EDs within a health system that had previously implemented EQUIPPED (hub). We hypothesized that implementation speed would increase under the hub‐and‐spoke model without cost to PIM reduction or site engagement. Methods: We evaluated the effect of the EQUIPPED program on PIMs for each ED, comparing their 12‐month baseline to 12‐month post‐implementation period prescribing data, number of months to implement EQUIPPED, and facilitators and barriers to implementation. Results: The proportion of PIMs at all four sites declined significantly from pre‐ to post‐EQUIPPED: at traditional site 1 from 8.9% (8.1–9.6) to 3.6% (3.6–9.6) (p < 0.001); at spread site 1 from 12.2% (11.2–13.2) to 7.1% (6.1–8.1) (p < 0.001); at spread site 2 from 11.3% (10.1–12.6) to 7.9% (6.4–8.8) (p = 0.045); and at spread site 3 from 16.2% (14.9–17.4) to 11.7% (10.3–13.0) (p < 0.001). Time to implement was equivalent at all sites across both models. Interview data, reflecting a wide scope of responsibilities for the champion at the traditional site and a narrow scope at the spoke sites, indicated disproportionate barriers to engagement at the spoke sites. Conclusions: EQUIPPED was successfully implemented under both implementation models at four new sites during the COVID‐19 pandemic, indicating the feasibility of adapting EQUIPPED to complex, real‐world conditions. The hub‐and‐spoke model offers an effective way to scale‐up EQUIPPED though a speed or quality advantage could not be shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gene therapy based on the CRISPR/Cas9 system has emerged as a promising strategy for treating the monogenic fragile skin disorder recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). With this approach problematic wounds could be grafted with gene edited, patient‐specific skin equivalents. Precise gene editing using homology‐directed repair (HDR) is the ultimate goal, however low efficiencies have hindered progress. Reframing strategies based on highly efficient non‐homologous end joining (NHEJ) repair aimed at excising dispensable, mutation‐harboring exons offer a promising alternative approach for restoring the COL7A1 open reading frame. To this end, we employed an exon skipping strategy using dual single guide RNA (sgRNA)/Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) targeted at three novel COL7A1 exons (31, 68, and 109) containing pathogenic heterozygous mutations, and achieved exon deletion rates of up to 95%. Deletion of exon 31 in both primary human RDEB keratinocytes and fibroblasts resulted in the restoration of type VII collagen (C7), leading to increased cellular adhesion in vitro and accurate C7 deposition at the dermal‐epidermal junction in a 3D skin model. Taken together, we extend the list of COL7A1 exons amenable to therapeutic deletion. As an incidental finding, we find that long‐read Nanopore sequencing detected large on‐target structural variants comprised of deletions up to >5 kb at a frequency of ~10%. Although this frequency may be acceptable given the high rates of intended editing outcomes, our data demonstrate that standard short‐read sequencing may underestimate the full range of unexpected Cas9‐mediated editing events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using relative reflectance measurements from the Mastcam‐Z and SuperCam instruments on the Mars 2020 Perseverance rover, we assess the variability of Fe mineralogy in Noachian/Hesperian‐aged rocks at Jezero crater. The results reveal diverse Fe3+ and Fe2+ minerals. The igneous crater floor, where small amounts of Fe3+‐phyllosilicates and poorly crystalline Fe3+‐oxyhydroxides have been reported, is spectrally similar to most oxidized basalts observed at Gusev crater. At the base of the western Jezero sedimentary fan, new spectral type points to an Fe‐bearing mineral assemblage likely dominated by Fe2+. By contrast, most strata exposed at the fan front show signatures of Fe3+‐oxides (mostly fine‐grained crystalline hematite), Fe3+‐sulfates (potentially copiapites), strong signatures of hydration, and among the strongest signatures of red hematite observed in situ, consistent with materials having experienced vigorous water‐rock interactions and/or higher degrees of diagenesis under oxidizing conditions. The fan top strata show hydration but little to no signs of Fe oxidation likely implying that some periods of fan construction occurred either during a reduced atmosphere era or during short‐lived aqueous activity of liquid water in contact with an oxidized atmosphere. We also report the discovery of alternating cm‐scale bands of red and gray layers correlated with hydration and oxide variability, which has not yet been observed elsewhere on Mars. This could result from syn‐depositional fluid chemistry variations, possibly as seasonal processes, or diagenetic overprint of oxidized fluids percolating through strata having variable permeability. Plain Language Summary: The oxidation states of the atmosphere and waters (whether rich or poor in oxidants such as oxygen) of Mars and their evolution are poorly constrained but can be recorded in the iron (Fe) mineralogy of rocks. Using data from the Perseverance rover, we analyzed the Fe mineralogy of ∼4–3 Ga old rocks from an ancient lake at Jezero crater. Oxidized Fe is found in igneous rocks and lowermost portions of sedimentary rocks, carried by clays and poorly crystalline oxides in the former and by sulfates and crystalline oxides in the latter, pointing to past action of oxidizing fluids, affecting more intensely the sedimentary rocks. Fe shows poor to no signs of oxidation in the uppermost strata, which might be evidence for a reducing atmosphere during sediment deposition or that the aqueous environment was too cold or too short‐lived to oxidize minerals. We also report Fe mineralogy variability at the cm‐scale in alternating colored layers, which has not been observed previously on Mars and could possibly mean that seasonal processes are recorded at Jezero crater. Key Points: In situ reflectance data measured with Mars 2020 show variable Fe mineralogy in sedimentary rocks at Jezero craterStrata exposed at the fan front experienced stronger oxidative water‐rock interactions compared to the upper fan and igneous crater floorWe identify cm‐scale color banding correlated with Fe‐oxide variability that likely indicates time variation in redox [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This preface introduces the Journal of Neurochemistry Special Issue on pain research. While acute pain provides important sensory information, which aids in the protection of an organism, it can in some cases transition into a chronic state. Unfortunately, chronic pain is a highly disabling state characterised by intense and abnormal pain sensations, which are exacerbated by problematic psychosocial disturbances that are poorly treated by current drugs. This issue includes several reviews that address current issues spanning basic to clinical research on a range of pain syndromes. Also included is a collection of basic research articles investigating important aspects of pain signalling through to whole body aspects of pain integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Exercise is beneficial for improving general health, wellbeing, and specific medical conditions. In musculoskeletal conditions such as chronic low back and neck pain, prescribed exercise has been found to be moderately effective in decreasing pain and improving function. Osteopaths are primary contact health professionals who manage predominantly musculoskeletal complaints. This work presents a secondary data analysis of the Australian osteopathy practice‐based research network and profiles the characteristics of osteopaths who often use exercise prescription in patient care. Methodology. Secondary analysis of a cross‐sectional survey of 992 osteopaths was registered with the Osteopathy Research and Innovation Network, an Australian practice‐based research network. Demographics, practice, and treatment characteristics of Australian osteopaths who "often" use exercise prescription in patient care were examined. Results. Seven‐hundred and thirty‐three Australian osteopaths (74%) indicated that they use exercise prescription "often" in patient care. Australian osteopaths who often use exercise prescription are more likely to be colocated with another osteopath (ORa 1.54) and send referrals to an exercise physiologist (ORa 1.94) and a specialist medical practitioner (ORa 1.72). Those osteopaths who often used exercise prescription were also more likely to discuss physical activity (ORa 5.61) and nutrition (ORa 1.90). Australian osteopaths who use exercise prescription often were more likely to treat patients with sports injuries (ORa 2.43) and use soft tissue techniques (ORa 1.92), trigger point techniques (ORa 2.72), and sports taping (ORa 1.78). Conclusion. Osteopaths who utilise exercise prescription were more likely to discuss physical activity, diet, and nutrition and utilise referral networks with specialist medical practitioners and exercise physiologists. Australian osteopaths who often use exercise prescriptions were also more likely to treat patients with sport injury. The results suggest that most Australian osteopaths use exercise prescription and have referral networks with other health professionals for patient management. Further work is required to explore the type of exercise prescription used and for what conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Plant pollen is rich in protein, sterols and lipids, providing crucial nutrition for many pollinators. However, we know very little about the quantity, quality and timing of pollen availability in real landscapes, limiting our ability to improve food supply for pollinators.We quantify the floral longevity and pollen production of a whole plant community for the first time, enabling us to calculate daily pollen availability. We combine these data with floral abundance and nectar measures from UK farmland to quantify pollen and nectar production at the landscape scale throughout the year.Pollen and nectar production were significantly correlated at the floral unit, and landscape level. The species providing the highest quantity of pollen on farmland were Salix spp. (38%), Filipendula ulmaria (14%), Rubus fruticosus (10%) and Taraxacum officinale (9%). Hedgerows were the most pollen‐rich habitats, but permanent pasture provided the majority of pollen at the landscape scale, because of its large area. Pollen and nectar were closely associated in their phenology, with both peaking in late April, before declining steeply in June and remaining low throughout the year.Our data provide a starting point for including pollen in floral resource assessments and ensuring the nutritional requirements of pollinators are met in farmland landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cross‐cultural universality of people's pursuit of positive self‐esteem is frequently disputed. Most research in this area has contrasted cultures of dignity (Western) and face cultures (East Asian), but less attention has been given to other cultures' views of self‐esteem. In the present work, we examined Pakistan as uniquely influenced by honour culture and South Asian argumentation culture principles, and we contrasted it with Canada (a Western culture of dignity). Across two studies, Pakistanis had less positive self‐esteem discrepancies (i.e., Pakistanis had minimal or no desire for higher self‐esteem) compared to Canadians (who desired much higher self‐esteem than they actually had). Pakistanis also believed less in the agentic benefits of high self‐esteem but more in the communal benefits of high self‐esteem than did Canadians. Differences in each cultures' beliefs about self‐esteem's causal powers partially accounted for the differences in self‐esteem discrepancies. These findings suggest unique conceptualizations of the value of self‐esteem in distinct cultures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the ocular effects of exposure to a low‐humidity environment with and without contact lens (CL) wear using various non‐invasive tests. Methods: Fourteen habitual soft CL wearers were exposed to controlled low humidity (5% relative humidity [RH]) in an environmental chamber for 90 min on two separate occasions. First, when wearing their habitual spectacles and then, on a separate visit, when wearing silicone hydrogel CLs that were fitted specifically for this purpose. All participants had adapted to the new CL prior to data collection. Three non‐invasive objective measurements were taken at each visit: blinking rate, objective ocular scatter (measured using the objective scatter index) and ocular surface cooling rate (measured using a long‐wave infrared thermal camera). At each visit, measurements were taken before the exposure in comfortable environmental conditions (RH: 45%), and after exposure to environmental stress (low humidity, RH: 5%). Results: CL wearers showed increased blinking rate (p < 0.005) and ocular scatter (p = 0.03) but similar cooling rate of the ocular surface (p = 0.08) when compared with spectacle wear in comfortable environmental conditions. The exposure to low humidity increased the blinking rate significantly with both types of corrections (p = 0.01). Interestingly, ocular scatter (p = 0.96) and cooling rate (p = 0.73) were not significantly different before and after exposure to low humidity. There were no significant two‐way interactions between correction and exposure in any of the measurements. Conclusions: CLs significantly increased the blinking rate, which prevented a quick degradation of the tear film integrity as it was refreshed more regularly. It is hypothesised that the increased blinking rate in CL wearers aids in maintaining ocular scatter quality and cooling rate when exposed to a low‐humidity environment. These results highlight the importance of blinking in maintaining tear film stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Global emergency medicine (GEM) is situated at the intersection of global health and emergency medicine (EM), which is built upon a history of colonial systems and institutions that continue to reinforce inequities between high‐income countries (HICs) and low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) today. These power imbalances yield disparities in GEM practice, research, and education. Approach: The Global Emergency Medicine Academy (GEMA) of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine formed the Decolonizing GEM Working Group in 2020, which now includes over 100 worldwide members. The mission is to address colonial legacies in GEM and catalyze sustainable changes and recommendations toward decolonization at individual and institutional levels. To develop recommendations to decolonize GEM, the group conducted a nonsystematic review of existing literature on decolonizing global health, followed by in‐depth discussions between academics from LMICs and HICs to explore implications and challenges specific to GEM. We then synthesized actionable solutions to provide recommendations on decolonizing GEM. Results: Despite the rapidly expanding body of literature on decolonizing global health, there is little guidance specific to the relatively new field of GEM. By applying decolonizing principles to GEM, we suggest key priorities for improving equity in academic GEM: (1) reframing partnerships to place LMIC academics in positions of expertise and power, (2) redirecting research funding toward LMIC‐driven projects and investigators, (3) creating more equitable practices in establishing authorship, and (4) upholding principles of decolonization in the education of EM trainees from LMICs and HICs. Conclusions: Understanding the colonial roots of GEM will allow us to look more critically at current health disparities and identify inequitable institutionalized practices within our profession that continue to uphold these misguided concepts. A decolonized future of GEM depends on our recognition and rectification of colonial‐era practices that shape structural determinants of health care delivery and scientific advancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Abdominal adhesions are the most common surgical complication and without reliable prophylactics. This study presents a novel rat model for abdominal adhesions and reports pilot results of human placental stem cell (hPSC)‐based therapies. Methods: Forty‐four (n = 44) male Sprague–Dawley rats (250‐350 g) were used in the experiment. Of these, thirty‐eight (n = 38) were included in a preliminary data set to determine a minimum treatment effect. Adhesions were created in a reproducible model to the abdominal wall and between organs. Experimental groups included the control group (Model No Treatment, MNT), Plasmalyte A (Media Alone, MA, 10 mL), hPSC (5 × 106 cells/10 mL Plasmalyte A), hPSC‐CM (hPSC secretome, conditioned media) in 10 mL Plasmalyte A, Seprafilm™ (Baxter, Deerfield, IL), and sham animals (laparotomy only). Treatments were inserted intraperitoneally (IP) and the study period was 14 days post‐operation. Results are reported as the difference between means of an index statistic (AIS, Animal Index Score) and compared by ANOVA with pairwise comparison. Results: The overall mean AIS was 23 (SD 6.16) for the MNT group with an average of 75% of ischemic buttons involved in abdominal adhesions. Treatment groups MA (mean overall AIS 17.33 SD 6.4), hPSC (mean overall AIS 13.86 SD 5.01), hPSC‐CM (mean overall AIS 13.13 SD 6.15), and Seprafilm (mean overall AIS 13.43 SD 9.11) generated effect sizes of 5.67, 9.14, 9.87, and 9.57 decrease in mean overall AIS, respectively, versus the MNT. Discussion: The presented rat model and scoring system represent the clinical adhesion disease process. hPSC‐based interventions significantly reduce abdominal adhesions in this pilot dataset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Null models provide a valuable baseline against which fundamental ecological hypotheses can be tested and foraging choices that cannot be explained by neutral processes or sampling biases can be highlighted. In this way, null models can advance our understanding beyond simplistic dietary descriptions to identify drivers of interactions. This method, however, requires estimates of resource availability, which are generally imperfect representations of highly dynamic systems. Optimising method selection is crucial for study design, but the precise effects of different resource availability data on the efficacy of null models are poorly understood.Using spider–prey networks as a model, we used prey abundance (suction sample) and activity density (sticky trap) data, and combinations of the two, to simulate null networks. We compared null diet composition, network properties (e.g., connectance and nestedness) and deviations of simulations from metabarcoding‐based spider dietary data to ascertain how different prey availability data alter ecological interpretation.Different sampling methods produced different null networks and inferred distinct prey selectivity. Null models based on prey abundance and combined frequency‐of‐occurrence data generated null diet compositions, which more closely resembled the diet composition determined by metabarcoding. Null models based on prey abundance, activity density and proportionally combined data generated null network properties most like the networks constructed via dietary metabarcoding.We show that survey method choice impacts all aspects of null network analyses, the precise effects varying between methods but ultimately altering ecological interpretation by increasing disparity in network properties or trophic niches between null and directly constructed networks. Merging datasets can generate more complete prey availability data but is not a panacea because it introduces different biases. The choice of method should reflect the research hypotheses and study system being investigated. Ultimately, survey methods should emulate the foraging mode of the focal predator as closely as possible, informed by the known ecology, natural history and behaviour of the predator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Collaborative quantitative scientists, including biostatisticians, epidemiologists, bioinformaticists, and data‐related professionals, play vital roles in research, from study design to data analysis and dissemination. It is imperative that academic health care centers (AHCs) establish an environment that provides opportunities for the quantitative scientists who are hired as staff to develop and advance their careers. With the rapid growth of clinical and translational research, AHCs are charged with establishing organizational methods, training tools, best practices, and guidelines to accelerate and support hiring, training, and retaining this staff workforce. This paper describes three essential elements for building and maintaining a successful unit of collaborative staff quantitative scientists in academic health care centers: (1) organizational infrastructure and management, (2) recruitment, and (3) career development and retention. Specific strategies are provided as examples of how AHCs can excel in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ageing causes progressive decline in metabolic, behavioural, and physiological functions, leading to a reduced health span. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is the three‐dimensional network of macromolecules that provides our tissues with structure and biomechanical resilience. Imbalance between damage and repair/regeneration causes the ECM to undergo structural deterioration with age, contributing to age‐associated pathology. The ECM 'Ageing Across the Life Course' interdisciplinary research network (ECMage) was established to bring together researchers in the United Kingdom, and internationally, working on the emerging field of ECM ageing. Here we report on a consultation at a joint meeting of ECMage and the Medical Research Council / Versus Arthritis Centre for Integrated Research into Musculoskeletal Ageing, held in January 2023, in which delegates analysed the key questions and research opportunities in the field of ECM ageing. We examine fundamental biological questions, enabling technologies, systems of study and emerging in vitro and in silico models, alongside consideration of the broader challenges facing the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the development of Virtual Scanner Games, a tool designed to improve access to magnetic resonance (MR) education. The tool consists of eight interactive web games that integrate MR concepts with science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematical (STEAM) topics. The games are aimed at high school students and cover various aspects of MR imaging. The article provides details on the software components, game design, and feedback collection process. The Virtual Scanner Games can be accessed online and are available for broader distribution. Feedback from users has been positive, and there are plans to improve and expand the games in the future. Overall, Virtual Scanner Games is a unique and open-source tool for MR education. [Extracted from the article]

Background and Aims: More than 70% of current smokers in Australia have a definite plan to stop smoking and around half of them try to quit every year. Latrobe Community Health Service (LCHS) was commissioned by Gippsland Primary Health Network to establish Latrobe Smoking Support Service (LSSS) to break down barriers to accessing services and increase support for smoking cessation. This research aims to assess the feasibility of an ongoing smoking cessation support service and determine the effect the LSSS has on client smoking behavior. Methods: Quantitative data were collected for the LSSS situated at LCHS during the period from September 2021 to March 2022. A new client survey, a returning client survey, and a 6‐week follow‐up survey were conducted by Clinic staff. The consent forms were obtained from the clients. A total of 117 clients attended the LSSS at least once, and a further 315 returning client sessions were conducted. The data analysis was undertaken by means of various descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, such as multiple linear regression analysis. Results: The research findings demonstrate the strong positive effect of the LSSS in helping clients to change their smoking behavior. Results of multiple regression analysis highlight the significant role of behavioral intervention strategies in the LSSS's success. A combination of both nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and counseling was a key contributor to the project's success. Conclusion: This research proposed and tested the model of a smoking cessation support service that combines a comprehensive mix of services for smokers including free NRT, free counseling, and ongoing support of counselors or/and nurse practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors such as canagliflozin (CANA) have emerged as an effective adjuvant therapy in the management of diabetes, however, past observations suggest CANA may alter skeletal muscle mass and function. The purpose of this work was to investigate the effects of CANA on skeletal muscle metabolism both with and without insulin resistance. Methods: C2C12 myotubes were treated with CANA with or without insulin resistance. Western blot and qRT‐PCR were used to assess protein and gene expression, respectively. Cell metabolism was assessed via oxygen consumption and extracellular acidification rate. Mitochondrial, nuclei and lipid content were measured using fluorescent staining and microscopy. Results: CANA decreased mitochondrial function and glycolytic metabolism as did insulin resistance, however, these changes occurred without significant alterations in gene expression associated with each pathway. Additionally, while insulin resistance reduced insulin‐stimulated pAkt expression, CANA had no significant effect on insulin sensitivity. Conclusions: CANA appears to reduce mitochondrial and glycolytic metabolism without altering gene expression governing these pathways, suggesting a reduction in substrate may be responsible for lower metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Science educators now broadly recognize the multimodal nature of learning in science, where learners make meanings within modes (linguistic, mathematical, visual, and actional) by using the conventions of different sign systems or grammars in these modes. However, how teachers guide students to link and infer new meanings across modes, called "transduction" (Kress & Van Leeuwen, 2006. Reading images: The grammar of visual design. Routledge, p. 39), is less clear. This mapping of meanings across modes through realizing, generating, aligning, and coordinating meanings in representations is crucial to learning and communicating scientific concepts, inquiry processes, and reasoning. In this paper we propose a pragmatist account of how young students can be guided to achieve cohesion in this process. Drawing mainly on Peirce's (1998, The essential Peirce: Selected philosophical writings. Indiana University Press) theory of sign functions and affordances, we describe how, in practice, transduction entails a sequence of meaning-making steps across and within sign systems. For Peirce, sign systems in science enable inferential meaning-making within modes, but signs within these grammars can also prompt, support, and confirm meanings across modes. We analyze student learning in an elementary school astronomy class to identify how transduction is enacted and supported. We draw on micro-ethnographic analysis of the teacher's interactions with students and their artifacts to identify key transduction enablers. We found that young students can engage successfully in trans-modal reasoning if multiple conditions are met, with implications for science inquiry design in general and the teacher's key role in transduction guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaccination with infectious Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) sporozoites (SPZ) administered with antimalarial drugs (PfSPZ-CVac), confers superior sterilizing protection against infection when compared to vaccination with replication-deficient, radiation-attenuated PfSPZ. However, the requirement for drug administration constitutes a major limitation for PfSPZ-CVac. To obviate this limitation, we generated late liver stage-arresting replication competent (LARC) parasites by deletion of the Mei2 and LINUP genes (mei2–/linup– or LARC2). We show that Plasmodium yoelii (Py) LARC2 sporozoites did not cause breakthrough blood stage infections and engendered durable sterilizing immunity against various infectious sporozoite challenges in diverse strains of mice. We next genetically engineered a PfLARC2 parasite strain that was devoid of extraneous DNA and produced cryopreserved PfSPZ-LARC2. PfSPZ-LARC2 liver stages replicated robustly in liver-humanized mice but displayed severe defects in late liver stage differentiation and did not form liver stage merozoites. This resulted in complete abrogation of parasite transition to viable blood stage infection. Therefore, PfSPZ-LARC2 is the next-generation vaccine strain expected to unite the safety profile of radiation-attenuated PfSPZ with the superior protective efficacy of PfSPZ-CVac. Synopsis: Malaria persists as a formidable global health threat, necessitating development of a vaccine that protects against malaria parasite infection. A late liver stage-arresting replication competent (LARC) parasite vaccine was engineered by deletion of the Mei2 and LINUP genes (mei2-/linup- or LARC2) in Plasmodium yoelii (PyLARC2) and Plasmodium falciparum (PfSPZ-LARC2). PyLARC2 did not show any breakthrough blood stage infections in mice. PyLARC2 elicited durable sterilizing immunity against diverse sporozoite challenges in a range of mouse strains. PfSPZ-LARC2 liver stages showed robust replication in liver-humanized mice but did not transition to viable blood stage infection. Cryopreserved PfSPZ-LARC2 vaccine was successfully produced. PfSPZ-LARC2 vaccine is the next-generation vaccine strain designed to unite the safety attributes of radiation-attenuated PfSPZ with the superior protective efficacy of PfSPZ-CVac. Malaria persists as a formidable global health threat, necessitating development of a vaccine that protects against malaria parasite infection. A late liver stage-arresting replication competent (LARC) parasite vaccine was engineered by deletion of the Mei2 and LINUP genes (mei2-/linup- or LARC2) in Plasmodium yoelii (PyLARC2) and Plasmodium falciparum (PfSPZ-LARC2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]