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Abstract Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) has conventionally been used for cell cryopreservation both in research and in clinical applications, but has long-term cytotoxic effects. Trehalose, a natural disaccharide, has been proposed as a non-toxic cryoprotectant. However, the lack of specific cell membrane transporter receptors inhibits transmembrane transport and severely limits its cryoprotective capability. This research presents a method to successfully deliver trehalose into mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) using ultrasound in the presence of microbubbles. The optimised trehalose concentration was shown to be able to not only preserve membrane integrity and cell viability but also the multipotency of MSCs, which are essential for stem cell therapy. Confocal imaging revealed that rhodamine-labelled trehalose was transported into cells rather than simply attached to the membrane. Additionally, the membranes were successfully preserved in lyophilised cells. This study demonstrates that ultrasonication with microbubbles facilitated trehalose delivery, offering promising cryoprotective capability without the cytotoxicity associated with DMSO-based methods.

Background: and Methods: This paper presents a review of image quality in ultrasound imaging when using gel and liquid standoff pads, compared to imaging without a standoff pad. Imaging metrics assessed are lateral resolution, nearfield target intensity, and contrast to noise ratio of echogenicity targets. Measurements were made with a Canon Aplio i800 ultrasound system on a standardized ultrasound phantom (Computerized Imaging Reference Systems, Inc.), and custom-made agarose phantoms. Two cases are examined: when the ultrasound images are taken with the probe at different heights above the phantom (the normal clinical use-case for standoff pads); and when the ultrasound probe is artificially always placed at the same height above the phantom (allowing for direct image comparison). Results and conclusion: The main differences in the standard clinical use-case were observed in nearfield image intensity, with a mean difference of 22.4 ± 11.1 % between highest and lowest positions. Investigation of probes at the same height above the phantom shows that differences appear to be due primarily due to the height of the probe above the phantom, rather than the pads themselves. Elevational beamwidth was found to be a minimum of 2.2 mm at 25 mm axial depth, and adding a standoff pad can change vessel and cyst visualization due to the elevational beamwidth. This is a useful result to be aware of for clinicians using standoff pads on modern ultrasound systems.

ABSTRACT Earth’s stratosphere is characterized by hypobaric conditions, low temperatures, and high intensities of ultraviolet (UV) and cosmic radiation as well as low water and nutrient availability. While it is not considered a permanent habitat for microorganisms, they can be transported to the stratosphere by storms, volcanic action, or human activity. The impact of those extreme conditions on microorganisms and their survival were tested by sending a sample gondola to the stratosphere. The sample gondola was built to allow exposure of Bacillus subtilis endospores at different angles to the sun. It moreover had holders for three environmental samples to test the effect of stratospheric conditions on complex microbial communities. The gondola attached to a stratospheric balloon was launched near Kiruna, Sweden, ascended to ~25 km, and drifted eastward for ~200 km. Samples were exposed to pressures as low as 2 kPa and temperatures as low as −50°C as well as high UV radiation. Survival rates of B. subtilis were determined by comparing the numbers of colony-forming units (CFUs) for the different exposure angles. Survival was negatively correlated with exposure angle, indicating the significant impact of UV radiation. The effect of stratospheric conditions on environmental samples was assessed by comparing most probable numbers, microbial community composition, and substrate-use profiles to controls that had stayed on the ground. Cultivation was possible from all samples with survival rates of at least 1%, and differences in community composition were observed. Survival of environmental microorganisms might have been supported by the sample matrix, which provided protection from radiation and desiccation.IMPORTANCEEarth's stratosphere is a hostile environment that has challenged microbial survival. We set out to test the effect of stratosphere exposure on survival of single species (Bacillus subtilis) and complex microbial communities from soils and sediment. B. subtilis survival was strongly impacted by sun exposure, i.e., ultraviolet (UV) radiation, with only 1% survival at full sun exposure. Complex microbial communities had high survival rates, and the soil or sediment matrix may have provided protection against radiation and desiccation, supporting the survival of environmental microorganisms.

Abstract Background Eczema is a chronic, relapsing skin condition commonly managed by emollients and topical corticosteroids. Prevalence of use and demand for effective botanical therapies for eczema is high worldwide, however, clinical evidence of benefit is limited for many currently available botanical treatment options. Robustly-designed and adequately powered randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are essential to determine evidence of clinical benefit. This protocol describes an RCT that aims to investigate whether a mānuka oil based emollient cream, containing 2% ECMT-154, is a safe and effective topical treatment for moderate to severe eczema. Methods This multicentre, single-blind, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial aims to recruit 118 participants from community pharmacies in Aotearoa New Zealand. Participants will be randomised 1:1 to receive topical cream with 2% ECMT-154 or vehicle control, and will apply assigned treatment twice daily to affected areas for six weeks. The primary outcome is improvement in subjective symptoms, assessed by change in POEM score. Secondary outcomes include change in objective symptoms assessed by SCORAD (part B), PO-SCORAD, DLQI, and treatment acceptability assessed by TSQM II and NRS. Discussion Recruitment through community pharmacies commenced in January 2022 and follow up will be completed by mid-2023. This study aims to collect acceptability and efficacy data of mānuka oil based ECMT-154 for the treatment of eczema. If efficacy is demonstrated, this topical may provide an option for a novel emollient treatment. The community-based design of the trial is anticipated to provide a generalisable result. Ethics and dissemination Ethics approval was obtained from Central Health and Disability Ethics Committee (reference: 2021 EXP 11490). Findings of the study will be disseminated to study participants, published in peer-reviewed journal and presented at scientific conferences. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) ACTRN12621001096842. Registered on August 18, 2021 ( https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=382412&isReview=true ). Protocol version 2.1 (Dated 18/05/2022).

In this case series, we present a methodology for a proof of principle for the development of a unique biomarker for pigmentary glaucoma to detect progression before nerve fiber layer loss. Out of the five patients in this case series, one was excluded because of an outlier due to pseudoexfoliation syndrome with excessively dense pigmentation of the trabecular meshwork. The remaining patients displayed a decreased visual field loss with increased superior to inferior trabecular meshwork ratios. This methodology, though limited due to small sample size, shows that in a limited number of patients, visual field loss is positively correlated with increased superior to inferior trabecular meshwork ratios. The next steps would be to look at patients without glaucoma and patients with pigmentary glaucoma, along with complete inter-eye comparisons for patients with unilateral exfoliation syndrome to act as controls. To our knowledge, this is a novel methodology, and if the pattern holds, it can act as proof of principle for the development of a novel early biomarker for pigmentary glaucoma to improve early intervention and delay vision loss.

The study aimed to investigate the feasibility of attenuation imaging (ATI) measurements using a linear probe on healthy volunteers and compare measurements with the conventional convex probe. Attenuation imaging measurements of the liver tissue were taken using ultrasound with a convex and a linear probe in 33 volunteers by two examining doctors, and the measurements were repeated 4–5 weeks later by one of them. The ATI values for the linear probe were in the range of the values for the convex probe for both examiners. Measurements did not change significantly for 32 out of 33 volunteers after 4–5 weeks when using the linear probe. The size of the region of interest (ROI) only impacted the ATI values for the convex probe; it did not affect the values taken with the linear probe. Healthy volunteers were measured, and their attenuation values were compared to those from a convex probe, commonly used in steatosis evaluation. When both probes were positioned in the same liver area, they showed good agreement in attenuation values, though depth significantly affected the measurements, with both probes providing different values at different depths. The study’s results aligned with previous research using the same system. Operator A and B’s results were compared, demonstrating similar ranges of values for both probes. The linear probe has been demonstrated to allow for superficial measurements and attain ATI values in line with that of the convex probe in the liver.

This study investigates the development of freestanding thick films (FSFs) of lead-free (Ba,Ca)(Zr,Ti)O3 and the role of grain growth on the electromechanical response. During deposition, room temperature powder aerosol deposition rapidly produces thick films with a nano-grain structure that limits the electromechanical properties. In this study, the films are removed from the substrate using a sacrificial buffering layer to avoid thermal treatment and allow for an initial as-processed state. Following this, FSFs were thermally treated at various annealing temperatures from 800 °C to 1400 °C to induce grain growth, which was characterized with scanning and transmission electron microscopy. X-ray diffraction revealed an increase in the crystallite size consistent with an increase in grain size and a decrease in internal residual stress. The temperature-dependent dielectric behavior and the large-field ferroelectric response were also characterized, revealing significant differences of the FSFs from the bulk properties.

There have been studies showing attenuation imaging (ATI) with ultrasound as an approach to diagnose liver diseases such as steatosis or cirrhosis. So far, this technique has only been used on a convex probe. The goal of the study was to investigate the feasibility of ATI measurements using the linear array on a canon Aplio i800 scanner on certified phantoms. Three certified liver tissue attenuation phantoms were measured in five different positions using a linear probe. The effects of positioning and depth were explored and compared. The values were compared to the certified expected value for each phantom as well as the different measurement values for each measurement position. The ATI measurements on phantoms showed significant effect for the different probe positions and region of interest (ROI) depths. Values taken in the center with the probe perpendicular to the phantom were closest to certified values. Median values at 2.5–4.5 cm depth for phantoms 1 and 2 and 0.5–2.5 cm for phantom 3 were comparable with certified values. Measurements taken at a depth greater than 6 cm in any position were the least representative of the certified values (p-value < 0.01) and had the widest range throughout the different sessions. ATI measurements can be performed with the linear probe in phantoms; however, careful consideration should be given to depth dependency, as it can significantly affect measurement values. Remaining measurements at various depths within the 0.5–6.0 cm range showed deviation from the certified values of approximately 25%.

Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) is a key component of the insulin signaling pathway that controls cellular metabolism and growth. Loss-of-function mutations in PI3K signaling and other downstream effectors of the insulin signaling pathway extend the lifespan of various model organisms. However, the pro-longevity effect appears to be sex-specific and young mice with reduced PI3K signaling have increased risk of cardiac disease. Hence, it remains elusive as to whether PI3K inhibition is a valid strategy to delay aging and extend healthspan in humans. We recently demonstrated that reduced PI3K activity in cardiomyocytes delays cardiac growth, causing subnormal contractility and cardiopulmonary functional capacity, as well as increased risk of mortality at young age. In stark contrast, in aged mice, experimental attenuation of PI3K signaling reduced the agedependent decline in cardiac function and extended maximal lifespan, suggesting a biphasic effect of PI3K on cardiac health and survival. The cardiac anti-aging effects of reduced PI3K activity coincided with enhanced oxidative phosphorylation and required increased autophagic flux. In humans, explanted failing hearts showed increased PI3K signaling, as indicated by increased phosphorylation of the serine/threonine-protein kinase AKT. Hence, late-life cardiac-specific targeting of PI3K might have a therapeutic potential in cardiac aging and related diseases.

Abstract Background Managed grasslands are global sources of atmospheric methanol, which is one of the most abundant volatile organic compounds in the atmosphere and promotes oxidative capacity for tropospheric and stratospheric ozone depletion. The phyllosphere is a favoured habitat of plant-colonizing methanol-utilizing bacteria. These bacteria also occur in the rhizosphere, but their relevance for methanol consumption and ecosystem fluxes is unclear. Methanol utilizers of the plant-associated microbiota are key for the mitigation of methanol emission through consumption. However, information about grassland plant microbiota members, their biodiversity and metabolic traits, and thus key actors in the global methanol budget is largely lacking. Results We investigated the methanol utilization and consumption potentials of two common plant species (Festuca arundinacea and Taraxacum officinale) in a temperate grassland. The selected grassland exhibited methanol formation. The detection of 13C derived from 13C-methanol in 16S rRNA of the plant microbiota by stable isotope probing (SIP) revealed distinct methanol utilizer communities in the phyllosphere, roots and rhizosphere but not between plant host species. The phyllosphere was colonized by members of Gamma- and Betaproteobacteria. In the rhizosphere, 13C-labelled Bacteria were affiliated with Deltaproteobacteria, Gemmatimonadates, and Verrucomicrobiae. Less-abundant 13C-labelled Bacteria were affiliated with well-known methylotrophs of Alpha-, Gamma-, and Betaproteobacteria. Additional metagenome analyses of both plants were consistent with the SIP results and revealed Bacteria with methanol dehydrogenases (e.g., MxaF1 and XoxF1-5) of known but also unusual genera (i.e., Methylomirabilis, Methylooceanibacter, Gemmatimonas, Verminephrobacter). 14C-methanol tracing of alive plant material revealed divergent potential methanol consumption rates in both plant species but similarly high rates in the rhizosphere and phyllosphere. Conclusions Our study revealed the rhizosphere as an overlooked hotspot for methanol consumption in temperate grasslands. We further identified unusual new but potentially relevant methanol utilizers besides well-known methylotrophs in the phyllosphere and rhizosphere. We did not observe a plant host-specific methanol utilizer community. Our results suggest that our approach using quantitative SIP and metagenomics may be useful in future field studies to link gross methanol consumption rates with the rhizosphere and phyllosphere microbiome.

Abstract Background Tibial plateau fractures and tibial implant- loosening are severe complications in cementless unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR). The tibial keel preparation is particularly demanding and different saw blades can be used. It was hypothesized that different blade designs and thickness have an influence on the frequency of tibial plateau fractures and implant-loosening in cementless medial UKR. Methods 1258 patients with cementless medial UKR were included in this retrospective study between 2013 and 2020. The tibial keel cut was performed either with a double keel saw blade (DKS; 2.8 mm) and added hand guided pick or a mono reciprocating saw blade (RKB) of different thickness (2.5 mm; 2.65 mm; 2.75 mm). Tibial plateau fracture and loosening were demonstrated by standard two-plane radiographs. Tibial implant-loosening was defined as complete radiolucency and implant migration. Fracture and loosening were combined with pain and loss of function. Results In 126 patients (10%) the tibial keel was prepared with DKS, in 407 patients (32.4%) with RKB 2.5 mm, in 330 patients (26.2%) with RKB 2.65 mm and in 395 patients (31.4%) with 2.75 mm. In 4 patients (3.17%) with DKS tibial plateau fracture occurred, in 4 patients (0.99%) with 2.5 mm RKB, in 3 patients (0.92%) with 2.65 mm RKB and in 1 patient (0.25%) with 2.75 mm RKB. Significantly fewer fractures occurred with a RKB design (p = 0.007). A negative correlation between fracture incidence and RKB saw blade thickness was found (Spearman-r = − 0.93). No difference for tibial implant-loosening was shown (p = 0.51). Conclusion Different blade designs and thickness have a significant influence on the incidence of tibial plateau fractures and aseptic tibial implant-loosening. The incidence of tibial plateau fractures in cementless medial UKR can be reduced by changing the design and thickness of the tibial keel saw blade. Greater thickness of RKB leads to significantly fewer tibial plateau fractures while the incidence of implant-loosening is not increasing. Trial registration: This study was retrospectively registered and ethical approval was waived by the local ethical committee (No. 2020–1174).

ABSTRACT Many proteobacteria possess LuxR solos which are quorum sensing LuxR-type regulators that are not paired with a cognate LuxI-type synthase. LuxR solos have been implicated in intraspecies, interspecies, and interkingdom communication by sensing endogenous and exogenous acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs) as well as non-AHL signals. LuxR solos are likely to play a major role in microbiome formation, shaping, and maintenance through many different cell-cell signaling mechanisms. This review intends to assess the different types and discuss the possible functional roles of the widespread family of LuxR solo regulators. In addition, an analysis of LuxR solo types and variability among the totality of publicly available proteobacterial genomes is presented. This highlights the importance of these proteins and will encourage scientists to mobilize and study them in order to increase our knowledge of novel cell-cell mechanisms that drive bacterial interactions in the context of complex bacterial communities.

Seawater intrusion by rising sea levels has created large areas of ghost forests along low-lying coastal wetlands in the southeastern USA, but more information is needed to better understand its soil biogeochemistry. Here, we characterized several soil and environmental parameters, including tree litterfall, surface and soil porewater quality, emissions of greenhouse gases, and microbial communities along a forest-to-marsh transect, including a freshwater forested wetland, a salt-impacted degraded ghost forest, and a salt marsh in Winyah Bay, SC, USA. General water quality parameters such as electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, temperature and aboveground productivity showed distinct trends along the freshwater forested wetland → degraded ghost forest → salt marsh transect, whereas there were no obvious trends in soil biogeochemical parameters. Concentrations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in the degraded ghost forest were generally similar to the freshwater forested wetland, but on average were higher than those in the salt marsh. More labile molecular features observed through Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry indicated an increase in the DOC biodegradability along the forest-to-marsh transect. Greater DOC biodegradability in the degraded ghost forest was observed and confirmed through its generation of the highest average electrical currents from sediment microbial fuel cells. The lowest CH4 and CO2 fluxes, but the highest degradable DOC, were observed in the degraded ghost forest, suggesting that lateral C export is important in this wetland. Moreover, the degraded ghost forest was dominated by a unique microbial community, including high abundance of Woesearchaeia, which enables carbon metabolism via symbiotic and/or fermentation-based lifestyles. Our study illustrates a ghost forest with very different characteristics compared to its parental freshwater forested wetland and its transitioned salt marsh. Data obtained from the two endmember ecosystems along the salinity gradient transect were not useful in predicting the unique biogeochemical processes in the degraded ghost forest.

The frequency of opioid overdoses is increasing, and the use of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues in illicit substances has increased toxicity. In British Columbia, the opioid crisis has worsened since it was declared a public health emergency in 2016. Meanwhile, impermanent tent communities of people experiencing homelessness are being dislocated over concerns about illicit substance use. Recognizing the inaccessibility of naloxone for congregate encampment residents, this discussion piece builds upon current public health knowledge and urban forest management strategies to suggest key opportunities for increasing the accessibility of naloxone. These opportunities include recognizing peer-based care and the role of grassroots organizations in promoting naloxone accessibility.

Introduction: The measurement of physical frailty in elderly patients with orthopedic impairments remains a challenge due to its subjectivity, unreliability, time-consuming nature, and limited applicability to uninjured individuals. Our study aims to address this gap by developing objective, multifactorial machine models that do not rely on mobility data and subsequently validating their predictive capacity concerning the Timed-up-and-Go test (TUG test) in orthogeriatric patients. Methods: We utilized 67 multifactorial non-mobility parameters in a pre-processing phase, employing six feature selection algorithms. Subsequently, these parameters were used to train four distinct machine learning algorithms, including a generalized linear model, a support vector machine, a random forest algorithm, and an extreme gradient boost algorithm. The primary goal was to predict the time required for the TUG test without relying on mobility data. Results: The random forest algorithm yielded the most accurate estimations of the TUG test time. The best-performing algorithm demonstrated a mean absolute error of 2.7 s, while the worst-performing algorithm exhibited an error of 7.8 s. The methodology used for variable selection appeared to exert minimal influence on the overall performance. It is essential to highlight that all the employed algorithms tended to overestimate the time for quick patients and underestimate it for slower patients. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of predicting the TUG test time using a machine learning model that does not depend on mobility data. This establishes a basis for identifying patients at risk automatically and objectively assessing the physical capacity of currently immobilized patients. Such advancements could significantly contribute to enhancing patient care and treatment planning in orthogeriatric settings.

Introduction: The provision of patient information leaflets (PILs) for cancer treatment options is primarily via a paper format. PILs can now be provided on an electronic tablet with the added benefits of providing audio-visual information. Materials and Methods: Between February 2017 and August 2019, 112 patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer (PCa) were enrolled into our prospective cohort study. The control group (n = 56) were all given PILs on a paper as the standard of care (SoC). The intervention (tablet) group (n = 56) were given the same paper PILs as that of the control group plus an electronic tablet computer with an application containing all SoC paper PILs in an electronic format and supplementary videos detailing treatments. Both groups were asked to complete a validated questionnaire (Telemedicine, Satisfaction and Usefulness questionnaire) with regard to satisfaction with care, provided information, and tablet usage. Results: The response rate for our study was 78/112 (70%). The control and tablet groups were highly satisfied with their care (91%–100% agreed or strongly agreed) and with the information they received (80%–100% agreed or strongly agreed). In the tablet group, 41/46 (89%) reported its utilization. Of those 41, 38 (92%) considered the tablet easy to use and 13 (32%) reported a preference for the paper format. Conclusions: The provision of electronic PILs in PCa treatment is an innovative method of providing oncological care, with positive feedback from our patients. With further development as a mobile application, electronic PILs may allow a more environmentally and fiscally advantageous method of providing PCa care.

Background:. Surgeons who operate around nasal or oral airways are at particularly high risk for transmission of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. This multipart study explores the changes in craniofacial surgeon preferences and practices for personal protective equipment (PPE) over the course of a worldwide pandemic. Methods:. Two identical electronic survey studies, one in 2020 and one in 2022, were conducted on the use of PPE before, during, and after the pandemic among active craniomaxillofacial surgeons. Statistical changes in behaviors and preferences and differences across time points and demographic groups were evaluated. Results:. The initial study included responses from 48 surgeons, and the follow-up study consisted of 36 responses. Although only 4.3% of surgeons wore N95 masks or powered air purifying respirator for craniomaxillofacial operations before the pandemic, 91.5% wore these measures during the early pandemic (P < 0.001). However, this fell to 74.3% 2 years later. Similarly, more than 95% of surgeons wore a mask in clinic during the pandemic at both time points compared to only 40.3% before the pandemic (P < 0.001). In 2020, 31.9% of surgeons planned to continue using N95 masks or powered air purifying respirator for craniofacial cases after the pandemic was over, but that fell to 11.4% in the follow-up study. Conclusions:. Craniofacial surgeon practices have shifted significantly toward more protective PPE over the course of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. However, this effect was dampened over the course of a protracted pandemic. Despite this, our studies indicate a long-term shift in surgeon preference that is likely to persist after the pandemic is over.

Though Dutch is usually described as lacking a voicing contrast at the velar place of articulation, due to intense language contact and heavy lexical borrowing, a contrast between /k/ and /g/ has recently been emerging. We explored the status of this contrast in Dutch speakers in both production and perception. We asked participants to produce loanwords containing a /g/ in the source language (e.g., goal) and found a range of productions, including a great many unadapted [g] tokens. We also tested the same speakers on their perception of the emerging [k] ~ [g] contrast and found that our participants were able to discriminate the emerging contrast well. We additionally explored the possibility that those speakers who use the new contrast more in production are also better at perceiving it, but we did not observe strong evidence of such a link. Overall, our results indicate that the adoption of the new sound is well advanced in the population we tested, but is still modulated by individual-level factors. We hold that contrasts emerging through borrowing, like other phonological contrasts, are subject to perceptual and functional constraints, and that these and other ‘marginal contrasts’ must be considered as full-fledged parts of phonology.

Summary: Background: Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, have traditionally used the kānuka tree as part of their healing system, Rongoā Māori, and the oil from the kānuka tree has demonstratable anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. This trial investigated the efficacy and safety of a 3% kānuka oil (KO) cream compared to vehicle control (VC) for the topical treatment of eczema. The trial was conducted through a nationwide community pharmacy research network. Methods: This single-blind, parallel-group, randomised, vehicle-controlled trial was undertaken in 11 research trained community pharmacies across New Zealand. Eighty adult participants with self-reported moderate-to-severe eczema, assessed by Patient Orientated Eczema Measure (POEM) were randomised by blinded investigators to apply 3% KO cream or VC topically, twice daily, for six weeks. Randomisation was stratified by site and eczema severity, moderate versus severe. Primary outcome was difference in POEM scores at week six between groups by intention to treat. The study is registered on the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ANZCTR) reference number, ACTRN12618001754235. Findings: Eighty participants were recruited between 17 May 2019 and 10 May 2021 (41 KO group, 39 VC group). Mean POEM score (standard deviation) improved between baseline and week six for KO group, 18·4 (4·4) to 6·8 (5·5), and VC group, 18·7 (4·5) to 9·8 (6·5); mean difference between groups (95% confidence interval) was -3·1 (-6·0 to -0·2), p = 0·036. There were three adverse events reported in the KO group related to the intervention and two in the control group. Interpretation: The KO group had a significant improvement in POEM score compared to VC. Rates of adverse events and withdrawals were similar between groups with no serious adverse events reported. Treatment acceptability was high for both groups across all domains. Our results suggest that in adults with moderate-to-severe eczema, the addition of KO to a daily emollient regimen led to a reduction in POEM score compared to VC. KO may represent an effective, safe, and well tolerated treatment for moderate-to-severe eczema in adults. Funding: Hikurangi Bioactives (Ruatoria, New Zealand) and HoneyLab (Tauranga, New Zealand), supported by a grant from Callaghan Innovation.

Optically anisotropic materials were produced via colloidal lithography and characterized using scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), confocal microscopy, and polarimetry. A compact hexagonal array mask composed of silica sub-micron particles was fabricated via the Langmuir–Blodgett self-assembly technique. Subsequently, the mask pattern was transferred onto monocrystalline silicon and commercial glass substrates using ion beam etching in a vacuum. Varying the azimuthal angle while etching at oblique incidence carved screw-like shaped pillars into the substrates, resulting in heterochiral structures depending on the azimuthal angle direction. To enhance the material’s optical properties through plasmon resonance, gold films were deposited onto the pillars. Polarimetric measurements were realized at normal and oblique incidences, showing that the etching directions have a clear influence on the value of the linear birefringence and linear dichroism. The polarimetric properties, especially the chiroptical responses, increased with the increase in the angle of incidence.

The extracellular Contractile Injection System (eCIS) is a toxin-delivery particle that mediates interactions between bacteria and their invertebrate hosts. Here, the authors catalogue eCIS loci from 1,249 prokaryotic genomes, showing enrichment in non-pathogenic environmental microbes, and identifying eCIS-associated toxins that inhibit the growth of bacteria and/or yeast.

Objectives: Measurement location and patient state can impact noninvasive liver assessment and change clinical staging in ultrasound examinations. Research into differences exists for Shear Wave Speed (SWS) and Attenuation Imaging (ATI), but not for Shear Wave Dispersion (SWD). The aim of this study is to assess the effect of breathing phase, liver lobe, and prandial state on SWS, SWD, and ATI ultrasound measurements. Methods: Two experienced examiners performed SWS, SWD, and ATI measurements in 20 healthy volunteers using a Canon Aplio i800 system. Measurements were taken in the recommended condition (right lobe, following expiration, fasting state), as well as (a) following inspiration, (b) in the left lobe, and (c) in a nonfasting state. Results: SWS and SWD measurements were strongly correlated (r = 0.805, p < 0.001). Mean SWS was 1.34 ± 0.13 m/s in the recommended measurement position and did not change significantly under any condition. Mean SWD was 10.81 ± 2.05 m/s/kHz in the standard condition and significantly increased to 12.18 ± 1.41 m/s/kHz in the left lobe. Individual SWD measurements in the left lobe also had the highest average coefficient of variation (19.68%). No significant differences were found for ATI. Conclusion: Breathing and prandial state did not significantly affect SWS, SWD, and ATI values. SWS and SWD measurements were strongly correlated. SWD measurements in the left lobe showed a higher individual measurement variability. Interobserver agreement was moderate to good.

Composites based on ferroelectric Na0.5K0.5NbO3 (NKN) and paraelectric Al2O3 were observed using impedance spectroscopy at different temperatures. This allowed for the evaluation of the conduction processes of the bulk and grain boundary, revealing the occurrence of interdiffusion and changes in the conductive properties. The effective conductivity decreased with the increase in Al2O3, which is due to the highly resistive nature of Al2O3. Interestingly, the activation energy for the bulk response increased from 0.87 ± 0.06 eV to approximately 1.12 ± 0.03 eV, and the activation energy of the grain boundary decreased from 1.26 ± 0.09 eV to 0.99 ± 0.09 eV. These observations of the activation energy revealed the interdiffusion of Al3+ ions, leading to the formation of oxygen vacancies in close vicinity to the grain boundary. As a result, the conduction path for charge carriers shifted to take place predominantly along the grain boundary.

Ovarian vein thrombosis (OVT) is a relatively rare, but serious disease more commonly seen in puerperal patients. In the postpartum period, there is an unequal incidence of OVT in women with vaginal delivery (0.18%) and caesarean section (2.0%).OVT is usually associated with other conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease, malignant tumours, sepsis, enteritis, and recent pelvic or abdominal surgery. The incidence of idiopathic OVT is extremely rare and only a few cases have been reported to date in healthy patients with unknown aetiology. Patients with OVT present with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever or abdominal mass. Complications of OVT include pulmonary embolism, ovarian infarction, sepsis and death. CT scanning of the abdomen provides reliable evidence for the diagnosis of idiopathic OVT. Thrombus in most patients with idiopathic OVT is located in the right ovarian vein. This may be due to the longer length of the right ovarian vein, right shift of the uterus and relative insufficiency of the right ovarian vein valve. Treatment of OVT includes systemic anticoagulation which will achieve resolution of symptoms and prevent life-threatening complications. Our case report documents a non-puerperal patient who underwent hysterectomy a year before presenting to the ED with complaints of diarrhoea and found to have OVT on a CT scan. Our case brings attention to the fact that OVT can occur outside the puerperium and might present as a rare complication of minimally invasive surgeries for endometrial cancer. Furthermore, we posit that OVT in the non-puerperal patient may be a separate clinical entity.

In state-of-the-art mixed-integer programming solvers, a large array of reduction techniques are applied to simplify the problem and strengthen the model formulation before starting the actual branch-and-cut phase. Despite their mathematical simplicity, these methods can have significant impact on the solvability of a given problem. However, a crucial property for employing presolve techniques successfully is their speed. Hence, most methods inspect constraints or variables individually in order to guarantee linear complexity. In this paper, we present new hashing-based pairing mechanisms that help to overcome known performance limitations of more powerful presolve techniques that consider pairs of rows or columns. Additionally, we develop an enhancement to one of these presolve techniques by exploiting the presence of set-packing structures on binary variables in order to strengthen the resulting reductions without increasing runtime. We analyze the impact of these methods on the MIPLIB 2017 benchmark set based on an implementation in the MIP solver SCIP.

Die zunehmende Digitalisierung und Mediatisierung der Lebenswelt sind auf gesellschaftlicher und individueller Ebene mit grundlegenden und unausweichlichen Wandlungsprozessen verbunden. Somit stellt sich die Frage, welche Aufgaben Erziehung und Bildung unter diesen Rahmenbedingungen zukommen. Bildungspolitisch besteht Konsens darüber, dass Schulen bei der Vermittlung von Medienkompetenz eine wichtige Rolle spielen (müssen). Die konkrete Umsetzung soll dabei nicht in einem isolierten Lernbereich, sondern in der Verantwortung aller (Unterrichts-)Fächer liegen. Setzt man bildungspolitisch auf eine integrative Realisierung von Medienbildung, d.h. ohne einen eigenen Lernbereich oder ein eigenes Fach, so bedeutet dies, dass entsprechend abgestimmte schulische Lerngelegenheiten geschaffen werden müssen, die in der Summe der Beiträge aller Unterrichtsfächer einen umfassenden Kompetenzerwerb ermöglichen. Rahmenbedingungen, Vorgaben und Voraussetzungen für eine erfolgreiche Bewältigung dieser Aufgabe werden im Beitrag sowohl aus medienpädagogischer als auch aus fachdidaktischer Perspektive aufgegriffen und mit Blick auf Chancen und Herausforderungen beleuchtet.

BackgroundAssessment of the physical frailty of older patients is of great importance in many medical disciplines to be able to implement individualized therapies. For physical tests, time is usually used as the only objective measure. To record other objective factors, modern wearables offer great potential for generating valid data and integrating the data into medical decision-making. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to compare the predictive value of insole data, which were collected during the Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG) test, to the benchmark standard questionnaire for sarcopenia (SARC-F: strength, assistance with walking, rising from a chair, climbing stairs, and falls) and physical assessment (TUG test) for evaluating physical frailty, defined by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), using machine learning algorithms. MethodsThis cross-sectional study included patients aged >60 years with independent ambulation and no mental or neurological impairment. A comprehensive set of parameters associated with physical frailty were assessed, including body composition, questionnaires (European Quality of Life 5-dimension [EQ 5D 5L], SARC-F), and physical performance tests (SPPB, TUG), along with digital sensor insole gait parameters collected during the TUG test. Physical frailty was defined as an SPPB score≤8. Advanced statistics, including random forest (RF) feature selection and machine learning algorithms (K-nearest neighbor [KNN] and RF) were used to compare the diagnostic value of these parameters to identify patients with physical frailty. ResultsClassified by the SPPB, 23 of the 57 eligible patients were defined as having physical frailty. Several gait parameters were significantly different between the two groups (with and without physical frailty). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of the TUG test was superior to that of the SARC-F (0.862 vs 0.639). The recursive feature elimination algorithm identified 9 parameters, 8 of which were digital insole gait parameters. Both the KNN and RF algorithms trained with these parameters resulted in excellent results (AUROC of 0.801 and 0.919, respectively). ConclusionsA gait analysis based on machine learning algorithms using sensor soles is superior to the SARC-F and the TUG test to identify physical frailty in orthogeriatric patients.

Introduction. The Hydrus microstent has become a common procedure in glaucoma surgery intended to improve outcomes of cataract surgery to lower intraocular pressure. Despite proper placement, this device can subsequently be noted to not be in the proper position. In this case series, we report mispositioned Hydrus microstents in five different patients and use NIDEK GS-1 gonioscopy. Case Report. We report five different patients who had cataract surgery and who were subsequently noted to have mispositioned Hydrus stents. No stents needed to be removed. All patients had improved vision and stable visual fields, and none required secondary surgery. Management and Outcome. In each case of mispositioned stents, vision was significantly improved and there was no inflammation or other complications noted. Discussion. Hydrus stents can be noted to be mispositioned during the post-operative period after successful insertion. This can often be well tolerated requiring no further intervention.

The mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) kinase is a master regulator of metabolism and aging. A complex signaling network converges on mTORC1 and integrates growth factor, nutrient and stress signals. Aging is a dynamic process characterized by declining cellular survival, renewal, and fertility. Stressors elicited by aging hallmarks such as mitochondrial malfunction, loss of proteostasis, genomic instability and telomere shortening impinge on mTORC1 thereby contributing to age-related processes. Stress granules (SGs) constitute a cytoplasmic non-membranous compartment formed by RNA-protein aggregates, which control RNA metabolism, signaling, and survival under stress. Increasing evidence reveals complex crosstalk between the mTORC1 network and SGs. In this review, we cover stressors elicited by aging hallmarks that impinge on mTORC1 and SGs. We discuss their interplay, and we highlight possible links in the context of aging and age-related diseases.

The tuberous sclerosis protein complex (TSC complex) is a key integrator of metabolic signals and cellular stress. In response to nutrient shortage and stresses, the TSC complex inhibits the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) at the lysosomes. mTORC1 is also inhibited by stress granules (SGs), RNA-protein assemblies that dissociate mTORC1. The mechanisms of lysosome and SG recruitment of mTORC1 are well studied. In contrast, molecular details on lysosomal recruitment of the TSC complex have emerged only recently. The TSC complex subunit 1 (TSC1) binds lysosomes via phosphatidylinositol-3,5-bisphosphate [PI(3,5)P2]. The SG assembly factors 1 and 2 (G3BP1/2) have an unexpected lysosomal function in recruiting TSC2 when SGs are absent. In addition, high density lipoprotein binding protein (HDLBP, also named Vigilin) recruits TSC2 to SGs under stress. In this mini-review, we integrate the molecular mechanisms of lysosome and SG recruitment of the TSC complex. We discuss their interplay in the context of cell proliferation and migration in cancer and in the clinical manifestations of tuberous sclerosis complex disease (TSC) and lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM).

Background: Osteoporotic fractures are associated with a loss of quality of life, but only few patients receive an appropriate therapy. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the awareness of musculoskeletal patients to participate in osteoporosis assessment and to evaluate whether there are significant differences between acute care patients treated for major fractures of the hip compared to elective patients treated for hip joint replacement.; Methods: From May 2015 to December 2016 patients who were undergoing surgical treatment for proximal femur fracture or total hip replacement due to osteoarthritis and were at risk for an underlying osteoporosis (female > 60 and male > 70 years) were included in the study and asked to complete a questionnaire assessing the awareness for an underlying osteoporosis. ASA Score, FRAX Score, and demographic information have also been examined. Results: In total 268 patients (female = 194 (72.0%)/male = 74 (28%)), mean age 77.7 years (±7.7) undergoing hip surgery were included. Of these, 118 were treated for fracture-related etiology and 150 underwent total hip arthroplasty in an elective care setting. Patients were interviewed about their need for osteoporosis examination during hospitalization. Overall, 76 of 150 patients receiving elective care (50.7%) considered that an examination was necessary, whereas in proximal femur fracture patients the awareness was lower, and the disease osteoporosis was assessed as threatening by significantly fewer newly fractured patients. By comparison, patients undergoing trauma surgery had a considerably greater risk of developing another osteoporotic fracture than patients undergoing elective surgery determined by the FRAX® Score (p ≤ 0.001).; Conclusions: The patients’ motivation to endure additional osteoporosis diagnostic testing is notoriously low and needs to be increased. Patients who underwent acute care surgery for a fragility proximal femur fracture, although acutely affected by the potential consequences of underlying osteoporosis, showed lower awareness than the elective comparison population that was also on average 6.1 years younger. Although elective patients were younger and at a lower risk, they seemed to be much more willing to undergo further osteoporosis assessment. In order to better identify and care for patients at risk, interventions such as effective screening, early initiation of osteoporosis therapy in the inpatient setting and a fracture liaison service are important measures.

The judiciary is constitutionally vested with power to dispense justice to the citizens without fear, favor, ill-will or affection. This sacred function can only be effectively discharge if the judiciary exercises independence without any iota of interference from any person, body or organ. If that is the case it calls for the judiciary to defend its independence whenever interference is done or is likely to be done to it. This role, at any rate, is not intended to be discharged by individual judges. The appropriate organ to discharge this function is the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) which is mandated to ensure self-regulation of the judiciary. Judiciary is therefore expected to be at the frontline to always defend and promote the independence of the judiciary. This article, therefore, seeks to unveil whether or not the JSC of Tanzania is capable of protecting independence of our judiciary to enable the judges to perform their duty without reprisals or intimidations from any quarter. The author is of the view that a lot has to be done in terms of structure and mandates to realize rebirth of vibrant and independent JSC.

Recent work has used artificial language experiments to argue that hierarchical representations drive learners’ expectations about word order in complex noun phrases like these two green cars (Culbertson & Adger 2014; Martin, Ratitamkul, et al. 2019). When trained on a novel language in which individual modifiers come after the Noun, English speakers overwhelmingly assume that multiple nominal modifiers should be ordered such that Adjectives come closest to the Noun, then Numerals, then Demonstratives (i.e., N-Adj-Num-Dem or some subset thereof). This order transparently reflects a constituent structure in which Adjectives combine with Nouns to the exclusion of Numerals and Demonstratives, and Numerals combine with Noun+Adjective units to the exclusion of Demonstratives. This structure has also been claimed to derive frequency asymmetries in complex noun phrase order across languages (e.g., Cinque 2005). However, we show that features of the methodology used in these experiments potentially encourage participants to use a particular metalinguistic strategy that could yield this outcome without implicating constituency structure. Here, we use a more naturalistic artificial language learning task to investigate whether the preference for hierarchy-respecting orders is still found when participants do not use this strategy. We find that the preference still holds, and, moreover, as Culbertson & Adger (2014) speculate, that its strength reflects structural distance between modifiers. It is strongest when ordering Adjectives relative to Demonstratives, and weaker when ordering Numerals relative to Adjectives or Demonstratives relative to Numerals. Our results provide the strongest evidence yet for the psychological influence of hierarchical structure on word order preferences during learning.

Der Beitrag widmet sich der Frage, wie lehrer*innenbildende Hochschulen der Digitalisierung auf der Ebene der Überarbeitung und Anpassung von Studienordnungen begegnen können. Ziel des interdisziplinären Vorhabens ist es, ausgehend von einer Inhaltsanalyse nordrhein-westfälischer Studienordnungen einen Kriterien- bzw. Fragenkatalog zu entwickeln, der diejenigen bildungspolitischen Vorgaben zur Verankerung digitaler Kompetenz fasst, die künftigen Akkreditierungen von Studiengängen zugrunde liegen werden und der fach- und standortübergreifend eingesetzt werden kann.

Der Artikel beschreibt unter Berücksichtigung von fachdidaktischen Überlegungen (Religionsdidaktik und Didaktik des Schulfaches Erziehungswissenschaft, letztere wird oftmals auch als Didaktik des Unterrichtsfaches Pädagogik bezeichnet), wie durch die Thematisierung studentischer Erfahrungen in Praxisphasen begleitenden Veranstaltungen ein Beitrag zur Professionalisierung angehender Lehrkräfte geleistet werden könnte. Exemplarisch werden Vorgehensweisen aufgezeigt, wie Unterrichtserfahrungen angehender Lehrkräfte in solchen Unterrichtsfächern, die sich in Bezug auf Inhalte und Gegenstände des Unterrichts durch ein hohes Maß an Uneindeutigkeit auszeichnen, im Rahmen der universitären Veranstaltungen thematisiert und zu Theorien in Beziehung gesetzt werden können. Der Begriff Uneindeutigkeit bezeichnet dabei das Spezifikum beider Fächer, dass Fragen thematisiert und Aufgaben bearbeitet werden, die sich nicht immer eindeutig beantworten oder als richtig oder falsch bewerten lassen. Ziel der Einbindung studentischer Praxiserfahrungen und von deren Reflexion ist es, dass angehende Lehrkräfte professionelle Kompetenz entwickeln sowie für die Komplexität und Uneindeutigkeit theologischer Rede bzw. theologischen und pädagogischen Handelns und Wirkens sensibilisiert werden und gleichzeitig erkunden, wie sie Kinder und Jugendlichen in der Schule einen verlässlichen Referenzrahmen für die Entwicklung einer reflektierten religiösen bzw. pädagogischen Kompetenz vermitteln können.

Abstract Background Antiretrovirals have been available in Ghana since 2003 for HIV-1 positive pregnant women for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT). Suboptimal responses to treatment observed post-PMTCT interventions necessitated the need to investigate the profile of viral mutations generated. This study investigated HIV-1 drug resistance profiles in mothers in selected centres in Ghana on treatment with a history of prophylaxis. Methods Genotypic Drug Resistance Testing for HIV-1 was carried out. Subtyping was done by phylogenetic analysis and Stanford HIV Database programme was used for drug resistance analysis and interpretation. To compare the significance between the different groups and the emergence of drug resistance mutations, p values were used. Results Participants who had prophylaxis before treatment, those who had treatment without prophylaxis and those yet to initiate PMTCT showed 32% (8), 5% (3) and 15% (4) HIV-1 drug resistance associated mutations respectively. The differences were significant with p value

Resumen Hoy en día, las ciudades están experimentando radicales cambios operacionales. Estos nuevos modelos conocidos como Smart Cities tienen como objetivo mejorar la calidad de vida de los ciudadanos mediante el uso de datos recopilados sobre el entorno a través del uso de Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC). Además, el Internet of Things (IoT) es una de las grandes tecnologías que respalda a las Smart Cities para lograr estos objetivos. A su vez, una de las líneas de investigación que está adquiriendo gran relevancia está relacionada con las tendencias de aplicación de software y hardware abiertos. Una de estas ramas son las bien conocidas Plataformas de Código Abierto (OSP), que permite el desarrollo de proyectos de desarrollo propio (DIY). Gracias a ello, actualmente es posible llevar a cabo proyectos y soluciones que hasta ahora difícilmente eran posibles hacer realidad. El presente trabajo muestra una de las líneas de investigación que se está llevando a cabo desde el grupo en el ámbito de la monitorización y automatización de los edificios a través de la combinación de las OSP y el IoT. Además de mostrar las posibilidades de desarrollo existentes se presentará un caso práctico de esta tecnología que se llevó a cabo durante el proceso de monitorización energética en el edificio San Roke 32 de Donostia-San Sebastián rehabilitado bajo los criterios Passivhaus. Abstract Today, cities are experiencing radical operational changes. These new models known as Smart Cities aim to improve the quality of citizens life using data collected about the environment through the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). In addition, the Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the great technologies that supports Smart Cities to achieve these objectives. At the same time, one of the research lines that is becoming very relevant is related to open software and hardware application trends. One of these branches are the well-known Open Source Platforms (OSP), which allows the development of self-developed projects (DIY). Thanks to this, it is now possible to carry out projects and solutions that until now were hardly possible to achieve. The present work shows one of the lines of research that is being carried out from the group in the field of monitoring and automation of buildings through the combination of the OSP and the IoT. In addition to showing the existing development possibilities, a practical case of this technology will be presented, which was carried out during the energy monitoring process in the San Roke 32 building in Donostia-San Sebastián, rehabilitated under the Passivhaus criteria.

Background and Objectives: Nowadays, various clinical scoring systems are used in the medical care of the elderly to assess the quality of mobility. However, people often tend to under- or overestimate themselves in many aspects. Since this can have serious consequences in their treatment and care, the aim of this study was to identify differences in the self and external assessment of mobility of persons over 65 years of age. Materials and Methods: 222 participants over 65 years of age and one external, closely-related relative or professional caregiver were interviewed by a unique study assistant using a standardized questionnaire. Participants were divided into people living in nursing homes and independent people living at home, where either the caregivers or the relatives provided the external assessment of mobility, respectively. The questionnaire included demographics, cognitive abilities (Mini Mental Status Test); fall risk (Hendrich 2 Fall Risk Model); as well as the Parker Mobility Score, Barthel Index, and EQ-5D-5L to measure mobility, activities of daily life and quality of life. In each case, the participant and the external person were asked for their assessment to the participants’ mobility situation. Statistical significance of the difference between self and external assessment was calculated with a Wilcoxon rank-sum test and assumed with a p-value of ≤ 0.05. Results: Self-assessment indicated a significantly higher value, when compared to an external assessment for the Parker Mobility Score for females in nursing homes (p ≤ 0.01), as well as for the Barthel Index for females (p ≤ 0.01) and males (p ≤ 0.01) in nursing homes. The EQ-5D-5L received a significantly higher self-assessment value for females (p ≤ 0.01) and males (p ≤ 0.01) living at home and females (p ≤ 0.01) and males (p ≤ 0.05) in nursing homes. Conclusions: Persons over 65 years of age tend to overestimate their level of mobility, quality of life and activities of daily life. Especially for people living in nursing homes, these scoring systems should be treated with caution due to the differences between the verbal statements. It is important to properly assess the mobility situation of elderly patients to ensure correct medical treatment and prevention of falls.

The concept of fair trial and the right to cross-examine by an accused person are fundamental in the broad spectrum of administration of justice in any jurisdiction. Both may well be said to form part of the concept of rule of law. The right to a fair trial is guaranteed in the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania of 1977 and in other laws just like the right to cross-examination of witnesses. The importance of affording parties a fair trial has been echoed by the international community in different international legal instruments. It is upon the courts, therefore to conduct trials fairly. One of the critical areas to ensuring fair trial is with respect to the manner the right of cross-examination is provided to the accused and exercised by the same. While admitting that the right to a fair trial takes on board the whole trial process from the beginning to the end, this article concentrates on the right to cross-examination. It is submitted here that the right to a fair trial is sometimes vitiated during the process of cross-examination when a party to a case (an accused or defendant as the case may be) exercises the right without being at least informed of the essence of doing the same. In such a situation it is as tantamount as the right has never been given to the accused. In short, as a matter of practice, the right to cross-examination is given haphazardly to, not only to children who are accused but also to unrepresented adult persons.

The Monumento às Bandeiras by Victor Brecheret is constituted of Mauá Granite. It is a symbol of the city of São Paulo and a masterpiece by one of the most important Brazilian artists. This study aimed to assess the conservation status of this monument by using the non-destructive method of propagation of ultrasonic waves. The assessment was carried out considering the importance of this monument, which represents a significant period of São Paulo history, and mainly to contribute to its conservation by using a geological approach. In this study, the values of the P-wave velocities in the monument were compared with the values obtained in the laboratory sample, which was collected in the original quarry of the same stone as the monument. Appropriate methodologies were used in this study to obtain the values of velocities in laboratory and in situ. Three types of transmission were used: direct, semi-direct and indirect, with three different transducer pairs: 54 and 150 kHz and and exponentials of 54 kHz. Only the 54 kHz and 150 kHz transducers were compatible to the study of the monument using direct and indirect transmissions. The result of these evaluations indicates that the Monumento às Bandeiras is still in good conservation condition, based in the P-wave velocities: ca . 4.6 – 5.3 km/s, obtained directly in the monument, varying according to the type of transmission applied, and 5.2 – 5.6 km/s in the laboratory tests. These values are in accordance with non-altered granites.

Abstract Coronary arteriovenous fistula is a rare entity and is mostly diagnosed and corrected in early childhood. We report the case of a 59-year-old female patient who was presented with chest pain during exertion for 3 months because of an aneurysmatic circumflex artery and coronary sinus fistula. We successfully ligated the circumflex artery close to the main stem and to the coronary sinus. The first marginal branch was revascularized by the left internal thoracic artery. The postoperative course was uneventful.

The freshwater amphipod Gammarus fossarum is widely distributed throughout Europe and an important species for stream biomonitoring. It is known to consist of several cryptic species. We here report the complete mitochondrial genome of G. fossarum clade 11/type B with a length of 15,989 bp, encoding for 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, and 2 rRNA genes. Protein-coding and ribosomal genes have a similar arrangement as in other gammarid amphipods. A phylogenetic analysis clarifies the placement of G. fossarum within the Gammaridae.

OBJECTIVE: To assess risk factors for paediatric burn injuries in the Czech Republic and to suggest preventive measures. METHODS: This study included all children aged 0-16 years hospitalized during 1993-2000 at the Prague Burn Centre and data from the Czech Ministry of Health on national paediatric burn hospitalizations during 1996-2006. Personal, equipment and environmental risk factors were identified from hospital records. FINDINGS: The incidence of burn admissions among 0-14 year-olds increased from 85 to 96 per 100 000 between 1996 and 2006, mainly due to a 13% increase among 1-4 year-olds. Between 1993-2000 and 2006, the proportion of burn victims in the country hospitalized at the Prague Burn Centre increased from 9% to 21%. Detailed data were available on 1064 children (64% boys). Around 31% of all burn hospitalizations were in 1 year-olds. Some 79% of burns occurred at home: 70% in the kitchen, 14% in the living room or bedroom and 11% in the bathroom. Of the 18% occurring outdoors, 80% involved boys. Scalds from hot liquids accounted for 70% of all burns. The mean hospital stay was 22 days for boys and 18 days for girls. CONCLUSION: Most burns involved scalds from hot liquids at home: beverages in kitchens and water in bathrooms. There is a need for passive preventive measures, such as redesigned domestic cooking and eating areas, safer electrical kettles and temperature control devices for bathrooms. Educational programmes should be developed for parents and caregivers. A national plan for child burn prevention with specific targets would be helpful.

Research in the field of plant biology has recently demonstrated that inter- and intra-specific interactions belowground can dramatically alter root growth. Our aim was to answer questions related to the effect of inter- vs. intra-specific interactions on the growth and utilization of undisturbed space by fine roots within three dimensions (3D) using micro X-ray computed tomography. To achieve this, Populus tremuloides (quaking aspen) and Picea mariana (black spruce) seedlings were planted into containers as either solitary individuals, or inter-/intra-specific pairs, allowed to grow for two months, and 3D metrics developed in order to quantify their use of belowground space. In both aspen and spruce, inter-specific root interactions produced a shift in the vertical distribution of the root system volume, and deepened the average position of root tips when compared to intra-specifically growing seedlings. Inter-specific interactions also increased the minimum distance between root tips belonging to the same root system. There was no effect of belowground interactions on the radial distribution of roots, or the directionality of lateral root growth for either species. In conclusion, we found that significant differences were observed more often when comparing controls (solitary individuals) and paired seedlings (inter- or intra-specific), than when comparing inter- and intra-specifically growing seedlings. This would indicate that competition between neighboring seedlings was more responsible for shifting fine root growth in both species than was neighbor identity. However, significant inter- vs. intra-specific differences were observed, which further emphasizes the importance of biological interactions in competition studies.