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Plant-parasitic nematodes are important pathogens of agricultural crops. Of particular importance are cyst nematode species of Globodera and Heterodera, which remain a major constraint to global production of crops such as potato, soybean, and wheat. Recent restrictions on the use of some synthetic nematicides has created an urgent need for alternative methods of controlling cyst nematodes. This project aimed to (i) document fungi found associated with cyst nematodes, (ii) determine if the fungi associated with cyst nematodes are dependent on growth conditions or nematode species, (iii) identify core mycobiomes for each of the eight cyst nematode species, (iv) identify the core mycobiome across all cyst nematode species studied, and (v) determine if the fungi associated with Globodera species are structured geographically. Sixty cyst nematode populations from eight species—Globodera sp., G. ellingtonae, G. pallida, G. rostochiensis, H. avenae, H. carotae, H. glycines, and H. schachtii—were collected from several geographic locations globally and screened for fungi using both culture-dependent and -independent methods. The core mycobiome was determined for each species. In total, 744 species of fungi were found to be associated with cyst nematodes. Fungal species shared across all cyst nematode species included Pochonia sp., Sporothrix sp., Neocosmospora solani, Exophiala equina, Mortierella sp., and Sarocladium kiliense. The core mycobiomes were conserved between cyst nematode species irrespective of their geographic origin. Cyst nematodes collected from the field or from greenhouse cultures also recruited similar core mycobiomes. These findings could be relevant when choosing fungi to evaluate as biocontrol agents against cyst nematodes.

Cow’s milk is an important food product for humans since it has a complex chemical composition and high nutritional value. Over 140 fatty acids, including linoleic, linolenic and arachidonic acids, were found in milk’s lipid profile. Milk is rich in minerals and contains almost all fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins. Milk proteins are a complete source of all essential amino acids for humans. Approximately 78 % of the total amount of protein in milk is casein. Beta-casein is one of the most important proteins in cow’s milk, accounting for up to 35 % of all milk proteins. It is believed that the A2A2 allele of the β-casein gene allows animals to produce а more nutritionally valuable milk since in this case, during the cleavage of β-casein in the human gastrointestinal tract, β-casomorphin-7 is either not produced or is produced in much smaller (trace) amounts than in the case of the А1А1 allele, which makes the process of milk digestion more physiological. Research has shown a link between β-casomorphin-7 and a variety of negative effects that occur both directly in the gastrointestinal tract and throughout the human body, contributing to the development of numerous pathologies, in particular type 1 diabetes mellitus, cardiac diseases, and various neurological disorders. A comprehensive study involving preschool children demonstrated that replacing regular milk with milk containing only A2А2 β-casein led to a significant reduction in complications associated with gastrointestinal intolerance as well as to improved cognitive functions.

Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with high rates of cluster C personality disorders (PD), which may negatively affect PTSD treatment. It is unknown whether concurrent treatment for PTSD and comorbid PD leads to superior treatment effects, compared to standard trauma-focused treatment.Objective: The objective was to test the efficacy of adding personality disorder treatment (group schema therapy; GST) to individual trauma-focused treatment (imagery rescripting; ImRs).Method: A two-arm randomized clinical trial (1:1 allocation ratio) was conducted between 2018 and 2023 at two sites of a mental health institution in the Netherlands. Raters were blind to treatment allocation. Adult outpatients with PTSD and comorbid cluster C personality disorders were randomized to receive either ImRs (12–18 sessions) or ImRs + GST (12–18 ImRs + 52–58 GST). The main outcome was PTSD severity one year after start of treatment measured with the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5.Results: Of 130 patients (mean [SD] age = 40.6 [11.2], 110 [85%] females), 66 were assigned to ImRs and 64 to ImRs + GST. At 12 months, there were large decreases in PTSD severity (dImRs = 2.42, 95%CI = 1.97–2.87; dImRs + GST = 2.44, 95%CI = 1.99–2.90), but there was no significant difference between conditions (d = 0.02, 95%CI = −0.33–0.36, p = .944). Reductions in personality disorder symptoms and all other secondary outcomes were observed in both conditions. There were no significant differences between conditions on any of the secondary outcomes at 12 months.Conclusion: The more intensive concurrent trauma-focused and personality disorder treatment (ImRs + GST) was not superior to trauma-focused treatment alone (ImRs) for patients with PTSD and comorbid CPD. This suggests that trauma-focused treatment is the preferred primary treatment in patients presenting with both internalizing personality disorder and PTSD, reserving the stepping up to more intensive psychotherapy aimed at the personality disorder as a second line of treatment.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03833531

Introduction: High dropout and low treatment attendance rates among patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and personality disorders (PDs) continue to pose a significant challenge. Despite numerous studies focusing on enhancing treatment attendance, the identification of consistent and reliable predictors in patients with PTSD and comorbid PDs remains limited. Objectives: This study aims to investigate a wide range of potential predictors of treatment attendance, encompassing demographic, patient-severity, treatment, and therapist-related variables in patients with PTSD and comorbid borderline and/or cluster C PDs. Methods: Utilizing data from 255 patients participating in two randomized controlled trials comparing trauma-focused treatment with or without concurrent PD treatment, candidate predictors were individually analyzed in univariate regression models. Significant predictors were then combined in a multiple ordinal regression model. Results: In total, 40% of patients attended fewer trauma-focused treatment sessions than the minimum recommended in treatment guidelines. Out of the 38 candidate predictors examined, five significant, independent predictors of treatment attendance emerged in a multiple ordinal regression model. Higher baseline PTSD severity (OR = 1.04, p = .036), higher education level (OR = 1.22, p = .009) and a stronger patient-rated working alliance (OR = 1.72, p = .047) with the therapist predicted higher treatment attendance. Conversely, inadequate social support from friends (OR = 0.90, p = .042) and concurrent PD treatment and trauma-focused treatment (OR = 0.52, p = .022) were associated with lower treatment attendance. Conclusions: In conclusion, this constitutes the first study investigating predictors of treatment attendance in patients with PTSD and comorbid PDs. The results highlight the complexity of pinpointing reliable predictors. Nevertheless, the identification of five predictors provides valuable insights, aiding clinicians in customizing treatment strategies for individual patients and enhancing overall treatment attendance.

Background: The clinical features of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) have been well documented, but there is limited data regarding the short term and longitudinal outcomes of children living in rural areas. We report the demographic and clinical features, as well as the multi-specialty follow-up of patients with MIS-C served by a large tertiary care rural health system. Methods: Patients that met the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) case definition of MIS-C admitted between March 1, 2020, and March 31, 2021, were included in this case series. Manual chart review was used to report demographic characteristics, clinical, laboratory and radiologic features during acute hospitalization and multispecialty follow-up, and adherence to follow-up 6–10 weeks after hospital discharge. Results: Twenty-one patients with MIS-C were admitted at our center during the review period. Ninety percent of the cohort required intensive care during hospitalization. Of 19 patients with measured ejection fractions, 52 % had some degree of left ventricular dysfunction on admission; nine patients had electrocardiogram changes on admission. The majority of patients had elevated inflammatory markers during hospitalization. Most patients had resolution of symptoms, improvement in inflammatory markers, and normal cardiac function at the time of discharge. Follow-up with pediatric cardiology, hematology-oncology and infectious disease was indicated for most patients at discharge. Of these, 100 % of patients kept initial follow-up appointments with pediatric cardiology and infectious disease, while 94 % kept initial follow-up appointments with pediatric hematology-oncology. Conclusion: Though most patients were critically ill during hospitalization, the majority had resolution of cardiac abnormalities and inflammatory markers at discharge and timely follow-up with multiple subspecialists after admission with MIS-C.

The article presents the results of the first geoarchaeological study of the materials of Christian burials identified in the interior of the Middle Zelenchuk temple of the 10th century in the Nizhne-Arkhyz ancient settlement (Republic of Karachay-Cherkessia). The results of microbiomorphic (phytolith) and total phosphorus content analyses allowed us to reveal previously unknown features of the funeral rites of the multicultural and multi-ethnic Christian population of one of the largest cities of the North Caucasus in the Middle Ages. The differences in funerary practices between the 11th and 13th centuries became evident when studying even a small group of funerary complexes in which people of the same social group – representatives of the social elite of Western Alania – were buried. The geoarchaeological study showed an abundance of plant and animal organic matter in the burials. The complex analysis of archaeological materials and data obtained during the microbiomorphic study allowed us to conclude that members of the urban Christian community had several burial traditions: in stone boxes (tombs), in wooden frames, and a mixed ritual when a wooden structure was placed in a stone box. The presence of wooden bark particles in the burials seems to be related not so much to the material from which the burial structures were made as to the presence in the graves of bark or bast objects (bast caskets or boxes, birch bark amulets, toys, etc.). The tradition known from pagan Alanian burials of placing the head of the deceased on a “stone cushion” (more typical for male burials) was preserved in early Christian burials. In one of the four women’s graves studied, the analysis showed the presence of a “hay pillow.” Probably, before the burial, a ritual of washing the deceased was performed, as evidenced by the presence of diatoms and sponge spicules in the samples.

Background/Objectives: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are a very important medical problem. The key role of mitochondrial dysfunction (MD) in the occurrence and progression of NCDs has been proven. However, the etiology and pathogenesis of MD itself in many NCDs has not yet been clarified, which makes it one of the most serious medical problems in the modern world, according to many scientists. Methods: An extensive research in the literature was implemented in order to elucidate the role of MD and NCDs’ risk factors in the pathogenesis of NCDs. Results: The authors propose to take a broader look at the problem of the pathogenesis of NCDs. It is important to understand exactly how NCD risk factors lead to MD. The review is structured in such a way as to answer this question. Based on a systematic analysis of scientific data, a theoretical concept of modern views on the occurrence of MD under the influence of risk factors for the occurrence of NCDs is presented. This was done in order to update MD issues in clinical medicine. MD and NCDs progress throughout a patient’s life. Based on this, the review raised the question of the existence of an NCDs continuum. Conclusions: MD is a universal mechanism that causes organ dysfunction and comorbidity of NCDs. Prevention of MD involves diagnosing and eliminating the factors that cause it. Mitochondria are an important therapeutic target.

Equine welfare is an increasingly important topic in the Netherlands and abroad. While existing literature broadly captures equine welfare concerns, research focused on Dutch horse enthusiasts is sparse. This study aims to identify what aspects horse enthusiasts in the Netherlands consider essential to safeguard equine welfare. An online survey comprising four binary yes-no questions, and 12 open questions was disseminated via social media. Survey data were analyzed qualitatively using inductive thematic analysis. The survey received 875 complete responses. Thematic analysis led to the identification of three higher-order themes: Equine Husbandry, Human-Horse Interaction, and Equitation. Aspects relating to Equine Husbandry were mentioned most, suggesting that Dutch equine enthusiasts consider aspects relating to housing and management more important to overall equine welfare. Within this theme, lower-order themes such as the ability to perform natural behavior and feeding were most prominent. On the theme of Human-Horse Interaction, respondents highlighted the importance of understanding horse behavior and human-horse communication to ensure their welfare, as well as ethical considerations for treating horses as sentient beings deserving respect. On the theme of Equitation, various aspects of training the rider and the horse were highlighted, including a sound knowledge of tack and equipment. Respondents emphasized the importance of qualified instruction on horse care and welfare. Despite evident awareness of a wide variety of welfare aspects among equestrians, considerable discrepancy between knowledge and practice persists, pointing to the need for tailored education and training to facilitate better application of welfare principles.

This paper is aimed at determining the characteristics of the development of quality control with the focus on three approaches to its management (influence of competition, adoption of corporate responsibility and public-private impact) at the level of developed and developing countries. The following methods are used: the complex method, statistical method and method of comparison. The scientific novelty of this research is due to the development of the theoretical and practical provisions in the sphere of formation of the system of quality control at the level of the optimal selection of an approach to its management. It is discovered that the most optimal approach to quality control management is a modified model, which envisages transformation and adaptation of the existing forms of influence in the direction of development of interaction and parity at the level of all participants of the regulation. Such an approach excludes strict regulation and administration from the government but implies the focus on the interests of all participants who seek the results of quality control.

The work contains the results of a comprehensive archaeological and paleoanthropological analysis of unique materials which were received at the beginning of the 20th century by the Kuban Museum (now the Krasnodar Territory Krasnodar State Historical and Archaeological Museum-Reserve named after E.D. Felitsyn): fragments of the upholstery of a copper coffin, bronze parts of a saber sheath, iron arrowheads, a wooden comb, and an almost complete skeleton of a buried young man 25-35 years. This miraculously preserved collection comes from a predatory excavation of an underground military entombment next to the modern city of Krymsk. The grave goods, and the closest analogies to the finds and features of the burial rite, undoubtedly indicate the elite nature of the burial and allow us to date the complex to the second half of the 14th century. The analysis using the principal component method showed us a high similarity of the buried skull with materials which were found in the burials of the Aushedz, Karras and Glebovka entombments. This can indicate that the skull belonged to the sedentary population of the North-Western Caucasus – the direct ancestors of the modern Circassians or Abazas. The marks left by arrowheads on the vertebrae and the inside of the rib let us suggest that these injuries were the cause of the warrior’s death.

Psichikos sveikatos sutrikimai yra labai paplitę visame pasaulyje. Tai yra didžiulė problema, kuri turi įtakos ne tik sveikatai, bet ir socialinei gerovei, darbingumui ir gyvenimo kokybei. Socialiniams darbuotojams, dirbantiems su asmenimis, turinčiais psichikos negalią, tenka svarbus vaidmuo užtikrinant jų gerovę ir gyvenimo kokybę. Socialiniai darbuotojai dirbdami su psichikos negalią turinčiais asmenimis dažnai susiduria su vidinėmis ir išorinėmis dilemomis sprendžiant moralinius klausimus, susijusius su jų asmeniniu ir profesiniu vaidmeniu. Taip pat svarbu atsižvelgti į santykius su klientais, kolegomis, vadovais, organizacija ir visuomene. Socialiniai darbuotojai turi įgyvendinti veiksmus, kurių tikslas yra pagerinti klientų gyvenimo kokybę, bet kartu išlaikyti profesionalumą, etiškumą ir atsižvelgti į teisės aktus. Sprendžiant psichikos sveikatos problemą socialiniams darbuotojams reikia turėti pakankamą žinių ir kompetencijų lygį, kad galėtų užtikrinti kokybišką pagalbą ir reabilitaciją asmenims, turintiems psichikos negalią. Visapusiškas socialinių darbuotojų išsilavinimas, nuolatinis tobulėjimas ir mokymasis yra būtinas siekiant geriau suprasti ir spręsti psichikos negalią turinčių asmenų problemas ir užtikrinant klientų gerovę. Socialinių darbuotojų atliekami vaidmenys gali skirtis priklausomai nuo asmens poreikių ir galimybių. Socialiniai darbuotojai turi turėti lankstų požiūrį, kuris padėtų prisitaikyti prie specifinių poreikių ir galimybių, su kuriomis susiduria psichikos negalią turintys asmenys. Svarbu, kad socialinis darbuotojas nuolat vystytų savo kompetencijas, gebėjimus ir žinias, kad galėtų atlikti savo darbo funkcijas kokybiškai ir tinkamai reaguotų į iššūkius, su kuriais susiduria. Tai gali apimti savęs vertinimą, refleksiją, mokymąsi, taip pat reikia turėti gerą palaikymo ir paramos sistemą siekiant gerų darbo rezultatų. Socialinis darbuotojas padeda psichikos negalią turintiems asmenims įvairiais būdais: emocinės paramos teikimu, kokybiškomis paslaugomis, priežiūros bei paslaugų koordinavimu, siekiu užtikrinti asmens gerovę ir palaikyti jo savarankiškumą. Kiekvienas atliekamas vaidmuo yra svarbus ir prisideda prie bendro tikslo – gerinti psichikos negalią turinčių asmenų gyvenimo kokybę ir gerovę. Svarbu nuolat ugdyti savo profesinę kompetenciją ir gilinti žinias. Tai skatina darbuotojų motyvacijos augimą ir užtikrina organizacijos narių kvalifikacijos lygio išlaikymą.

High-throughput amplicon sequencing of nematode communities has the potential to increase our understanding of nematode community ecology. A current constraint to the widespread implementation of amplicon sequencing is the lack of sequence databases with consistent taxonomic naming schemes. Focusing on 18S sequence data, we developed NemaTaxa, a manually curated database that can be used with QIIME and mothur analysis platforms. Nematode 18S sequence data were downloaded from NCBI, from which both Nematoda universal primers NF1 and 18Sr2b aligned. Taxonomic strings were trimmed to include only classical Linnaean lineages to genera within Nematoda; incomplete Linnaean lineages were corrected. NemaTaxa was compared with other available databases (specifically, PR2 and Silva v132) available for mothur, by comparing nematode taxonomic assignment of nematode communities collected from Oregon, Idaho, and Washington potato cropping systems. In general, NemaTaxa performed similar to PR2 in the number of contigs assigned to Nematoda. NemaTaxa resolves classification at the genus, family, and order levels while PR2 always has a portion of sequences assigned at the class level due to incomplete taxonomic strings. For example, only a small proportion of contigs (0 to 0.4%) for Chromadorea and Enoplea were unclassified using NemaTaxa compared with 5 to 80% for PR2. The Silva v132 database available in mothur is of limited use because of the greatly reduced number of nematode sequences available in the database, making classification only possible to the level of order. NemaTaxa offers an “off-the-shelf” database that can be used by nonexperts in nematology wanting to explore nematode community ecology and, therefore, will allow for inclusion of nematodes in soil ecology studies that employ amplicon sequencing for other organisms such as fungi and bacteria.

Bacterial endosymbionts, in genera Wolbachia and Cardinium, infect various arthropods and some nematode groups. Manipulating these microbial symbionts presents a promising biocontrol strategy for managing disease-causing parasites. However, the diversity of Wolbachia and Cardinium in nematodes remains unclear. This study employed a genome skimming strategy to uncover their occurrence in plant-parasitic nematodes, analyzing 52 populations of 12 species. A metagenome analysis revealed varying endosymbiont genome content, leading to the categorization of strong, weak, and no evidence for endosymbiont genomes. Strong evidence for Wolbachia was found in five populations, and for Cardinium in one population, suggesting a limited occurrence. Strong Wolbachia evidence was noted in Pratylenchus penetrans and Radopholus similis from North/South America and Africa. Heterodera glycines from North America showed strong Cardinium evidence. Weak genomic evidence for Wolbachia was observed in Globodera pallida, Meloidogyne incognita, Rotylenchus reniformis, Pratylechus coffeae, Pratylenchus neglectus, and Pratylenchus thornei; for Cardinium was found in G. pallida, R. reniformis and P. neglectus; 27/52 populations exhibited no endosymbiont evidence. Wolbachia and Cardinium presence varied within nematode species, suggesting non-obligate mutualism. Wolbachia and Cardinium genomes differed among nematode species, indicating potential species-specific functionality. This study advances knowledge of plant-parasitic nematode–bacteria symbiosis, providing insights for downstream eco-friendly biocontrol strategies.

The objective of the present study was to compare principal cell-specific aquaporin-2 (AQP2) abundances in urinary extracellular vesicles (uEVs) on the first postoperative day in deceased-donor kidney transplant recipients without and with acute kidney injury. We measured uEV markers (CD9 and CD63) and the abundances of proximal tubular sodium-glucose transporter 2, distal tubular sodium/chloride cotransporter, and principal cell-specific aquaporin-2 using Western blotting of urine. uEV-AQP2 levels were normalized to living donor controls. The validation cohort consisted of 82 deceased-donor kidney transplant recipients who had a median age of 50 years (IQR 43 to 57 years). A total of 32% of recipients had acute kidney injury. The median uEV-AQP2 was significantly higher in recipients with acute kidney injury compared to immediate allograft function (2.05; IQR 0.87 to 2.83; vs. 0.81; IQR 0.44 to 1.78; p < 0.01). The Youden index indicated a uEV-AQP2 threshold of 2.00. Stratifying uEV-AQP2 into quartiles showed that recipients with higher uEV-AQP2 levels had higher rates of acute kidney injury (Cochran–Armitage, p = 0.001). The discovery cohort showed elevated CD9, CD63, and uEV-AQP2 levels in urine from recipients with acute kidney injury compared to immediate allograft function. We were able to quantify the damage of principal cells after kidney transplant to predict acute kidney injury using uEV-AQP2.

The results of research on the frequency of genotypes AA, AB, BB and alleles A and B of milk protein beta-lactoglobulin in various cattle breeds over the past decades were presented and summarized. The livestock of the following foreign countries was considered: Italy, India and the Czech Republic. Also, on the territory of the Russian Federation, breeding stock and sires of the Republic of Bashkortostan, Tatarstan, Pskov, Samara and Arkhangelsk regions, as well as sires in the Altai Territory, were studied. Black-and-White breed is the most studied one. Moreover, there are data on the Simmental and Kholmogory breeds of cattle. The frequency of allele B among the breeding stock of Black-and-White breed in farms ranged from 0.21 to 0.64. The frequency of allele B among the breeding stock of Simmental breed in farms ranged from 0.42 to 0.65. The frequency of allele B among the breeding stock of Kholmogory breed in farms was from 0.60 to 0.70. The frequency of allele B among sires of Black-and-White breed ranged from 0.43 to 0.69. In most farms, BB genotype leads in terms of quality indicators of milk productivity, and AB genotype leads in quantitative indicators of milk productivity. However, in some farms, AA genotype prevails in terms of milk yield and protein, and this genotype is also associated with a high content of dry skimmed milk residue and resistance to mastitis. Thus, further in-depth study of the beta-lactoglobulin gene is necessary, since new data will expand the understanding of the effect of this gene on economically useful traits of animals and will eliminate contradictions in the available data.

Background: In Latvia outbreaks of the HAV were observed between 2008 and early 2010 and again in 2017–2018. However, the risks of introducing and spreading infection still exist, as the virus spreads easily when personal hygiene is not followed. Methods: To determine the spread of HAV subgenotypes in the territory of Latvia the VP1/P2A genomic region of HAV was amplified and sequenced for 259 case serum samples. The study carried out a molecular biological investigation and molecular epidemiological investigation. Demographic data (sex, age), disease data (hepatitis symptoms, hospitalization, vaccination) and epidemiology data (part of the outbreak, possible source of infection, recent travel) were collected. Based on the obtained sequences, the phylogenetic tree was built and analyzed for the homology and belonging to different isolated HAV clusters from other countries. Results: From the obtained data, it was concluded that HAV subgenotype IA had 13 clusters and 12 sporadic cases, HAV subgenotype IB had eight clusters and 11 sporadic cases, HAV subgenotype IIIA had one cluster and nine sporadic cases. It was found that the sources of infection among the investigated cases were different, they were mostly associated with contact with a patient with HAV, travel, as well as between persons who inject drugs and men who have sex with men, and the prevalence of HAV similar sequences was observed in different years. It was concluded that patients with HAV subgenotype IA had the longest hospitalization duration and averaged 9.3 days, while patients with subgenotype IB - 7.3 days, subgenotype IIIA - 7.7 days. Analyzing the data on vaccination, it was found that mostly all were not vaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. Conclusions: All of this has led to the conclusion that the application of molecular biological methods of the HAV and a careful analysis of epidemiological data can help to better understand the ways of spreading the infection, investigate local outbreaks, detect cases of imported infection and track the recirculation of the virus.

Grooms play a vital role in the equestrian sector, providing horses with expert care. Yet the grooming industry is finding itself amid continued outflow of experienced staff due to poor working conditions, insufficient remuneration, and lack of respect towards the profession. In 2022, four high-profile initiatives, the formation of the International Grooming Association (IGA), the 2022 FEI ECCO World Championships, the #ChampionsAsOne initiative, and the Cavalor Best Groom Award aimed to galvanize the grooming industry. Drawing on the COM-B model and Behaviour Change Wheel as a theoretical framework and using a four-part online questionnaire, the current study aimed to determine whether these initiatives were perceived by grooms (N = 1389) as addressing prevalent barriers that currently prevent them from staying in the industry. Statistical analysis using chi-square tests, Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests revealed that the initiatives were not perceived as effective. 58.5% of the grooms indicated that the initiatives had no impact on them personally, arguably because the initiatives failed to address those issues perceived as most pressing, namely a high mental and physical workload (physical opportunity) and insufficient remuneration and time off (physical capability). Grooms considered employers, followed by the FEI and the IGA as the most important stakeholders to work towards sustainable change in the grooming industry.

Pratylenchus neglectus and P. thornei are among the most destructive root lesion nematodes of wheat in the Pacific Northwest, United States of America and throughout the world. The aim of this study was to determine whether both nematode species were similar in their ability to induce defense genes in roots of wheat genotype Scarlet, and whether a combination of both species induced a different pattern of gene induction than each species alone. The long-term aspect of the research was to identify nematode-inducible promoters for deploying defense genes in roots in breeding programs. The root transcriptomes of genotype Scarlet were obtained after a one-week infection period with each nematode species separately, or both species combined. Root defense gene expression was induced for all three treatments relative to the no-nematode control, but P. thornei affected expression to a greater extent compared to P. neglectus. The species combination induced the highest number of defense genes. This result was not predicted from nematode enumeration studies, in which P. thornei colonization was substantially lower than that of P. neglectus, and the nematode combination did not show a significant difference. Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assays for Dehydrin2, Glucan endo-1,3-beta-glucosidase, 1-cys-Peroxiredoxin, Pathogenesis-related protein 1 and Late embryogenesis-abundant proteins 76 and group 3 authenticated the induction observed in the transcriptome data. In addition, a near-isogenic line of Scarlet harboring genetic resistance to fungal soilborne pathogens, called Scarlet-Rz1, showed similar or higher levels of defense gene expression compared to fungus-susceptible Scarlet in qRT-PCR assays. Finally, transcriptome expression patterns revealed nematode-inducible promoters that are responsive to both P. neglectus and P. thornei.

At a time of mounting ecological crises and biodiversity loss, there is an urgent need for nature-based solutions. Equestrian properties cover a considerable proportion of the European rural and peri-urban landscape and provide much potential for integrating ecosystem services, such as the inclusion of small landscape features. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence and quality of landscape features (LF) to help determine how the equine sector can contribute to the agro-ecological transition. Using a citizen science approach, 87 commercial and 420 private yard owners reported the type, frequency and geometric dimension of LFs and additional biodiversity enhancing features. A hierarchical multivariate regression was used to determine how equine property characteristics explain variation in the Percentage Property Coverage (PPC) of LFs. The model explained 47% of the variation of PPC. The variables that explained significant variation in PPC included Yard size, Number of LFs, Tree rows, Fruit orchard, Wild hedges, Flowering strips, Buffer strips, Embankments and Cluttered corners. Commercial yards are significantly larger with significantly more horses and on average only 9% (±13.87%) of the property was covered by LFs whilst private yards had significantly more coverage of LFs with on average 12% (±14.77%). These findings highlight the substantial yet untapped potential of equine yards in fostering biodiversity, suggesting that the equine sector could play an important role in the agro-ecological transition. To encourage more biodiverse-inclusive yard designs, tailored strategies should consider the diverse factors influencing equine yard design, including existing knowledge, client demands, financial considerations, and equine health and welfare.

Introduction: Although comorbidity of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and/or cluster C personality disorders (CPD) is common, neural correlates of this comorbidity are unknown. Methods: We acquired functional MRI scans during an emotional face task in participants with PTSD + CPD (n = 34), PTSD + BPD (n = 24), PTSD + BPD + CPD (n = 18) and controls (n = 30). We used ANCOVAs and Bayesian analyses on specific ROIs in a fearful vs. scrambled faces contrast. We also investigated associations with clinical measures. Results: There were no robust differences in brain activation between the groups with ANCOVAs. Transdiagnostically, we found a negative association between severity of dissociation and right insula and right dmPFC activation, and emotion regulation problems with right dmPFC activation. Bayesian analyses showed credible evidence for higher activation in all ROIs in the PTSD + BPD + CPD group compared to PTSD + BPD and PTSD + CPD. Discussion: Our Bayesian and correlation analyses support new dimensional conceptualizations of personality disorders.

In the global threat of SARS-CoV-2, individuals undergoing maintenance dialysis represent a vulnerable population with an increased risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. Therefore, immunization against SARS-CoV-2 is an essential component of healthcare strategy for these patients. Existing data indicate that they tend to exhibit a reduced immune response to vaccines compared to the general population. Our study aimed to assess both humoral and cellular immune responses following two doses of an anti-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine, an ability to maintain adequate antibody titers over time, and potential relations with vitamin D, comorbidities and other factors in hemodialysis patients based on a single center experience. A total of 41/45 patients (91.1%) responded to the second dose of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine. The titer of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG class antibodies and levels of T cells three to four weeks after vaccination were lower in dialysis patients than in healthy controls. Antibodies titer in dialysis patients had a positive correlation with B lymphocytes and was related to cardiovascular diseases. The level of CD4+ cells had a negative correlation with hemodialysis vintage, as did the vitamin D level with post-vaccination seroconversion and decline in anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies titer during six months after vaccination. Hemodialysis patients had decreased amounts of CD4+ and CD8+ cells and lower levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies than healthy controls. Therefore, chronic hemodialysis could lead to diminished cellular immunity and humoral immune response to the anti-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination and reduced protection from COVID-19. Comorbidity in cardiovascular diseases was associated with a lower level of specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titer. Vitamin D may be important in maintaining stable levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, while the duration of dialysis treatment could be one of the factors decreasing anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titer and determining lower CD4+ cell counts.

Tillage intensity can affect soil quality through soil aggregates, which are strongly associated with organic carbon. In this study, we evaluated the effect of different intensity tillage (conventional ploughing (CP), shallow ploughing (SP), deep cultivation (DC), shallow cultivation (SC), no-tillage (NT)) on soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil aggregates at the 0-5, 5-10, 10-20 and 20-30 cm layers and root biomass at the 0-10, 10-20 and 20-30 cm layers. The field experiment on spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) consisted of a split-plot arrangement with four replications. Dry soil aggregates were evaluated using the mean weight diameter (MWD) index. Wet aggregates were assessed using a water-stable aggregate (WSA) index. We identified that tillage intensity significantly influenced the MWD index at four soil levels. Shallow tillage showed greater results at 0-5 and 5-10 cm depths. However, deep tillage increased the MWD at 10-20 and 20-30 cm depth. NT was dominated by evaluating the WSA at every level of the soil. SOC was correlated with WSA. The highest SOC was found under NT. The different tillage intensities did not significantly affect root biomass.

Tacrolimus (TAC) has a narrow therapeutic window and patient-specific pharmacokinetic variability. In our study, we analyzed the association between TAC exposure, metabolism, and kidney graft outcomes (function, rejection, and histological lesions). TAC trough (C0), coefficient of variation (TAC CV), concentration/dose ratio (C/D), and biomarkers related to kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) and neutrophil gelatinase lipocalin (NGAL) were analyzed. We examined 174 patients who were subjected to a triple immunosuppressive regimen and underwent kidney transplantation between 2017 and 2022. Surveillance biopsies were performed at the time of kidney implantation and at three and twelve months after transplantation. We classified patients based on their Tac C/D ratios, classifying them as fast (C/D ratio < 1.05 ng/mL × 1/mg) or slow (C/D ratio ≥ 1.05 ng/mL × 1/mg) metabolizers. TAC exposure/metabolism did not significantly correlate with interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy (IF/TA) progression during the first year after kidney transplantation. TAC CV third tertile was associated with a higher chronicity score at one-year biopsy. TAC C/D ratio at three months and Tac C0 at six months were associated with rejection during the first year after transplantation. A fast TAC metabolism at six months was associated with reduced kidney graft function one year (OR: 2.141, 95% CI: 1.044–4.389, p = 0.038) and two years after transplantation (OR: 4.654, 95% CI: 1.197–18.097, p = 0.026), and TAC CV was associated with reduced eGFR at three years. uNGAL correlated with IF/TA and chronicity scores at three months and negatively correlated with TAC C0 and C/D at three months and one year. Conclusion: Calculating the C/D ratio at three and six months after transplantation may help to identify patients at risk of suffering acute rejection and deterioration of graft function.

From 2018 on, the Nizhny Arkhyz Archaeological Expedition of the Institute of Archaeology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the National Research University Higher School of Economics, and the U. D. Aliev Karachay-Cherkessia State University has been conducting comprehensive interdisciplinary research at the ancient Nizhny Arkhyz (Republic of Karachay-Cherkessia), located on the site of a mediaeval town which was the capital of Western Alania from the tenth to early thirteen century. One of the main objects of the research is the tenth-century Middle Zelenchuk Church and its cemetery from the tenth to thirteen centuries. The works of the expedition resulted in the unique archaeological and paleoanthropological materials, particularly from all the burial assemblages that survived in the inner space of the church; these undoubtedly belonged to the representatives of the nobility of this mediaeval Christian polity. First time in the history of studying the capital of mediaeval Alania, the analysis of these materials by methods of archaeology, anthropology, and natural sciences complex provided an opportunity for a closer examination of the daily life of its population, the social, demographic, professional composition of various urban strata, and the private life of the residents of Nizhny Arkhyz. This article reflects the most striking results of researches of the social portrait of the secular elite of Western Alania, which concern the ethno-cultural composition of this social stratum of the urban population, the quality of its life, funeral traditions, and the reconstruction of individual episodes of the life of a representative of the tenth-century professional military class, who was honoured with the burial in one of the most venerated churches of Alania.

Abstract Northern root‐knot nematode (Meloidogyne hapla) and ring nematode (Mesocriconema xenoplax) are the most prevalent plant‐parasitic nematodes of wine grapes in the Pacific Northwest, but M. hapla is most important in eastern Washington and M. xenoplax in western Oregon. These regions differ edaphically where Washington soils are minimally weathered and alkaline while Oregon soils are highly weathered and acidic. To examine the effect of soil texture and pH on nematode reproduction, an alkaline, sandy loam soil (pH 7.9) from Washington and an acidic loam soil from Oregon (pH 5.4) were modified to the other pH extreme, and to a middle pH of 6.9. Tomatoes were planted into each soil/pH combination, and either 500 M. hapla second‐stage juveniles or M. xenoplax individuals were added to each pot. After 7 weeks, plants were harvested, three roots collected for analysis, remaining roots and leaves dried and weighed, and nematode population densities determined as eggs on roots (M. hapla) and nematodes in soil (M. xenoplax). Soil texture (sandy loam or loam) had no effect on either nematode, but M. hapla reproduction was greater in the lowest pH soil while M. xenoplax was unaffected by soil pH. Mesocriconema xenoplax parasitism reduced root length and root tip number, whereas M. hapla increased root mass in the highest pH Washington soil. Under these experimental conditions, it appears vineyard soil texture in the Pacific Northwest is not a determining factor in population growth of these nematodes, but M. hapla performed better at low pH.

Background. The early onset of nephropathies creates certain risk of early chronic kidney disease development with loss of function (especially in children with unfavorable intrauterine period), renal tissue dysplasia, congenital malformations and/or urodynamic disorders.Objective. The aim of the study is to evaluate the role of ontogenesis factors in nephropathies development in tender-age infants with specification of the course features and kidneys morphometric parameters.Methods. Cohort study was conducted. The study group included 69 children aged from 0 to 36 months with changes in the kidneys (compared to age-specific ones) according to ultrasound and/or urinary syndrome (leukocyturia, bacteriuria, proteinuria, etc.). The control group included 35 relatively healthy children of the same age. Comparative analysis of antenatal and postnatal medical history was carried out in both groups, as well as comparison of morphometric indicators of the urinary system organs at neonatal ultrasound screening. Pathological process onset was also considered in the group of children with nephropathies. The study was conducted during 2018–2021.Results. Possible predictors of pathology process in children with early onset of nephropathies are: 1) maternal diseases: urinary system disorders (OR = 4.99), blood pathology, mainly anemia of the 2nd–3rd grade (OR = 6.94), cardiovascular system diseases (OR = 10.26), inflammatory diseases of genital tract (OR = 10.61); 2) pregnancy failures: gestational diabetes mellitus (OR = 7.24), preeclampsia and eclampsia (OR = 4.40); placental pathology (OR = 17.0), and fetoplacental insufficiency (OR = 7.61); 3) feeding features: early conversion to breast-milk substitutes (OR = 2.81). 50.7% of children of this group has shown persistent urodynamic disorders already at first months of life according to ultrasound data, as well as signs of bloated kidneys. It was shown that the inflammatory process manifestation associated with aggravated perinatal history and congenital defects occurs significantly earlier — 2 months, and without any defects — 4 months (p = 0.004).Conclusion. Burdened antenatal and neonatal medical history has negative effect on the morphogenesis of the urinary system organs and creates conditions for early nephropathies development during the first months of life.

The authors have studied the effect of a thermally modified additive based on peat TMT600 on the properties and structure of foam concrete of non-autoclave hardening and proposed a model of a fragment of the structure of the gas–solid–liquid interface and a model for the formation of a porous structure of foam concrete of non-autoclave hardening. The paper reveals the mechanism of the role of the foaming agent in formation of the porous structure of foam concrete. Tomography methods have shown that the real structure of foam concrete corresponds to the proposed models, as well as the achievement of a uniform distribution of pores by volume. It was established that in hydration after the dissolution of tobermorite and ettringite, the cement particles are recharged, and, consequently, the electrokinetic potential changes from positive to negative values. The mass transfer of particles is carried out not only by diffusion, but also by convection during foam formation. The accelerated movement of particles can also be carried out due to the electrostatic interaction of charges both on the surface of the foam and the peat additive. The geometry of the structural cells of the foam has the form of polygons, consisting mainly of hexagons and pentagons. As a result of the ongoing processes, a complex hierarchical structure is formed, in which the Plateau–Gibbs channels in the foam are calmed (clogged), forming a stronger skeleton, and after cement hydration, due to the recharging of the surface of the latter, an interpore partition of increased strength is eventually formed with a simultaneous uniform distribution of pores in foam concrete structure. The developed wall material has not only high strength, frost resistance, but also increased thermal insulation properties. The foam concrete obtained with the use of the TMT600 additive fully meets the seven fundamental criteria of the modern concept of building materials science, such as: technological availability and efficiency, energy and resource saving, environmental safety and natural compatibility, economic feasibility, ethical acceptability of practical application, aesthetic expressiveness and social orientation.

The article presents a description of a patient with chronic HCV infection and multiple extrahepatic manifestations, which manifested in dynamics and were recorded with a different sequence during 15 years of follow-up. In the patient we observed, the most frequently recorded extrahepatic manifestations were verified: porphyria cutanea tarda, mixed cryoglobulenemia, and utoimmune thyroiditis. Chronic HCV infection is often diagnosed in the presence of psoriasis was assessed as a paraneoplastic disease.

With an increasing number of marginal donors, additional methods for the evaluation of cadaveric kidney quality are required. This study aimed to evaluate pretransplant deceased donor serum (s) and urine (u) biomarkers, including neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), interleukin-18, and C-X-C motif chemokine 10 (CXCL10) for predicting early and late graft function. In total, 43 deceased kidney donors and 76 corresponding recipients were enrolled. Delayed graft function (DGF) occurred in 27.6% of cases. sIL-18, sKIM-1, uNGAL, and uKIM-1 were predictors of DGF. A model incorporating sIL-18, uKIM-1, and clinical factors was developed to predict DGF (AUROC 0.863). Univariate analysis showed a negative association between uKIM and graft eGFR at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months, but this was not confirmed in the multivariate analysis. In conclusion, we report a superior performance of donor biomarkers for predicting DGF and later graft function over serum creatinine. Higher levels of donor sIL-18 and uKIM in conjunction with expanded-criteria donors and longer cold ischemia times predicted DGF. With no renal tubular damage in zero-time donor biopsies, higher pretransplant urine and serum NGAL levels were associated with better allograft function one year after transplantation, and sNGAL with graft function three years after transplantation.

Abstract Meloidogyne incognita is a destructive and economically important agricultural pest. Similar to other plant-parasitic nematodes, management of M. incognita relies heavily on chemical controls. As old, broad spectrum, and toxic nematicides leave the market, replacements have entered including fluensulfone, fluazaindolizine, and fluopyram that are plant-parasitic nematode specific in target and less toxic to applicators. However, there is limited research into their modes-of-action and other off-target cellular effects caused by these nematicides in plant-parasitic nematodes. This study aimed to broaden the knowledge about these new nematicides by examining the transcriptional changes in M. incognita second-stage juveniles (J2) after 24-h exposure to fluensulfone, fluazaindolizine, and fluopyram as well as oxamyl, an older non-fumigant nematicide. Total RNA was extracted and sequenced using Illumina HiSeq to investigate transcriptional changes in the citric acid cycle, the glyoxylate pathway, $$\upbeta$$ β -fatty acid oxidation pathway, oxidative phosphorylation, and acetylcholine neuron components. Observed transcriptional changes in M. incognita exposed to fluopyram and oxamyl corresponded to their respective modes-of-action. Potential targets for fluensulfone and fluazaindolizine were identified in the $$\upbeta$$ β -fatty acid oxidation pathway and 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase of the citric acid cycle, respectively. This study provides a foundation for understanding how potential nematicide resistance could develop, identifies cellular pathways as potential nematicide targets, and determines targets for confirming unknown modes-of-action.

Abstract There is limited research about the impacts of new nematicides, including fluazaindolizine, fluopyram, and fluensulfone, on the plant-parasitic nematode Meloidogyne incognita, despite it being a pervasive agricultural pest. In this study, M. incognita second-stage juveniles were exposed for 24-h to fluensulfone, fluazaindolizine, fluopyram, and oxamyl and total RNA was extracted and sequenced using next-generation sequencing to determine gene expression. The effects of nematicide exposure on cellular detoxification pathways, common differentially expressed (DE) genes, and fatty acid and retinol-binding genes were examined. Fluopyram and oxamyl had the smallest impacts on the M. incognita transcriptome with 48 and 151 genes that were DE, respectively. These compounds also elicited a weak response in the cellular detoxification pathway and fatty acid and retinol-binding (FAR) genes. Fluensulfone and fluazaindolizine produced robust transcriptional responses with 1208 and 2611 DE genes, respectively. These compounds had strong impacts on cellular detoxification, causing differential regulation of transcription factors and genes in the detox pathway. These compounds strongly down-regulated FAR genes between 52–85%. Having a greater understanding of how these compounds function at a molecular level will help to promote proper stewardship, aid with nematicide discovery, and help to stay a step ahead of nematicide resistance.

Background and Objectives: Early improvements to graft function are crucial for good outcomes in kidney transplantation (kTx). Various factors can influence early graft function. This study aimed to evaluate the pre- and post-transplant hydration statuses of kTx recipients using bioimpedance analysis (BIA) and lung ultrasonography (LUS) and to investigate the hydration status’ relationship with the function of the transplanted kidney during the first year after transplantation. Materials and Methods: This observational prospective cohort study included deceased kidney recipients transplanted in the Hospital of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences between September 2016 and January 2023. BIA and LUS were performed before transplantation, on days 3 and 7, and at discharge. Data on recipient and donor clinical characteristics were collected. Graft function was evaluated according to the serum creatinine reduction ratio and the need for dialysis. Hydration status was evaluated by calculating B-lines (BL) on LUS and the ratio of extracellular/total body water on BIA. Results: Ninety-eight kTx recipients were included in the study. Patients with immediate graft function (IGF) were compared to those with slow or delayed graft function (SGF + DGF). Recipients in the SGF + DGF group had a higher sum of BL on LUS before transplantation. After transplantation in early postoperative follow-up, both groups showed hyperhydration as determined by BIA and LUS. After one year, recipients with no BL before transplantation had better graft function than those with BL. Logistic regression analysis showed that having more than one BL in LUS was associated with a 2.5 times higher risk of SGF or DGF after transplantation. Conclusions: This study found that lung congestion detected by LUS before kTx was associated with slower graft recovery and worse kidney function after 1 year. Meanwhile, the hyperhydration status detected by BIA analysis did not correlate with the function of the transplanted kidney.

Elsholtzia ciliata essential oil (E. ciliata) has been reported to have an impact on the cardiovascular system. However, its toxicity remains unknown. Therefore, the objective of this investigation was to evaluate the toxicological aspects of the E. ciliata extract. Male Balb/c mice were subjected to either acute (a single dose administered for 24 h) or sub-chronic (daily dose for 60 days) intraperitoneal injections of the E. ciliata extract. The mice were assessed for blood hematological/biochemical profiles, mitochondrial functions, and histopathological changes. Additionally, in vitro cytotoxicity assessments of the E. ciliata extract were performed on immobilized primate kidney cells (MARC-145, Vero) and rat liver cells (WBF344) to evaluate cell viability. The control groups received an equivalent volume of olive oil or saline. Our results demonstrated no significant detrimental effects on hematological and biochemical parameters, mitochondrial functions, cellular cytotoxicity, or pathological alterations in vital organs following the intraperitoneal administration of the E. ciliata extract over the 60-day sub-chronic toxicity study. In general, E. ciliata displayed no indications of toxicity, suggesting that the E. ciliata extract is a safe natural product with a well-defined therapeutic and protective index (found to be 90 and 54, respectively) in Balb/c mice.

Plasmonic nanohole arrays that are directly structured into the top metallization of vertical Ge-on-Si PIN photodiodes can be used to sense refractive index changes. This concept can pave the way to fully integrated biosensors with small footprint and high sensitivities. Here, we show that by optimizing the layer structure of the Ge-on-Si PIN photodiode as well as the geometry of the nanohole arrays, we can achieve high and narrow optical responsivity peaks with Fano-resonance lineshapes. We used an iterative, simulation-based approach in order to optimize the photodiode layer structure as well as the nanohole geometry and compared the predictions to measurement results obtained from fabricated devices. Our fabricated device shows large peak shifts upon changes in the superstrate refractive index. Finally, we argue that the improved device setup can have potential applications in a sensor system that uses an LED light source and estimate the limit of detection to be 2.2·10−5 RIU.

Abstract Background Early diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) is important to reduce transmission, morbidity and mortality in people living with HIV (PLWH). Methods PLWH with a diagnosis of TB were enrolled from HIV and TB clinics in Eastern Europe and followed until 24 months. Delayed diagnosis was defined as duration of TB symptoms (cough, weight-loss or fever) for ≥ 1 month before TB diagnosis. Risk factors for delayed TB diagnosis were assessed using multivariable logistic regression. The effect of delayed diagnosis on mortality was assessed using Kaplan–Meier estimates and Cox models. Findings 480/740 patients (64.9%; 95% CI 61.3–68.3%) experienced a delayed diagnosis. Age ≥ 50 years (vs.

Aims: The effect of pelvic tilt (PT) and sagittal balance in hips with pincer-type femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) with acetabular retroversion (AR) is controversial. It is unclear if patients with AR have a rotational abnormality of the iliac wing. Therefore, we asked: are parameters for sagittal balance, and is rotation of the iliac wing, different in patients with AR compared to a control group?; and is there a correlation between iliac rotation and acetabular version? Methods: A retrospective, review board-approved, controlled study was performed including 120 hips in 86 consecutive patients with symptomatic FAI or hip dysplasia. Pelvic CT scans were reviewed to calculate parameters for sagittal balance (pelvic incidence (PI), PT, and sacral slope), anterior pelvic plane angle, pelvic inclination, and external rotation of the iliac wing and were compared to a control group (48 hips). The 120 hips were allocated to the following groups: AR (41 hips), hip dysplasia (47 hips) and cam FAI with normal acetabular morphology (32 hips). Subgroups of total AR (15 hips) and high acetabular anteversion (20 hips) were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction. Results: PI and PT were significantly decreased comparing AR (PI 42° (SD 10°), PT 4° (SD 5°)) with dysplastic hips (PI 55° (SD 12°), PT 10° (SD 6°)) and with the control group (PI 51° (SD 9°) and PT 13° (SD 7°)) (p < 0.001). External rotation of the iliac wing was significantly increased comparing AR (29° (SD 4°)) with dysplastic hips (20°(SD 5°)) and with the control group (25° (SD 5°)) (p < 0.001). Correlation between external rotation of the iliac wing and acetabular version was significant and strong (r = 0.81; p < 0.001). Correlation between PT and acetabular version was significant and moderate (r = 0.58; p < 0.001). Conclusion: These findings could contribute to a better understanding of hip pain in a sitting position and extra-articular subspine FAI of patients with AR. These patients have increased iliac external rotation, a rotational abnormality of the iliac wing. This has implications for surgical therapy with hip arthroscopy and acetabular rim trimming or anteverting periacetabular osteotomy (PAO).

Several studies have examined the success of populist leaders in recent decades. These studies focus on both supply side factors that concern the traits of populist actors and demand side factors in the form of characteristics of the supporters. However, we still lack a solid understanding of how these supply and demand side factors interact to explain the support of populist leaders. We contribute to this literature by examining the interplay of two central supply side factors, people-centeredness and anti-immigration policies, and two demand side factors, political dissatisfaction and generational differences, in determining populist support. We test these explanations by leveraging a choice-based conjoint analysis embedded in a representative sample of the Finnish population (n = 1030). The results show that while people-centeredness enhance the favourability of prospective political leaders among the general population, only anti-immigration policies appeal to the politically dissatisfied. In contrast to recent studies, we find no evidence that populist leader traits would be more favoured by younger generations. These results indicate that the interplay between supply and demand may well be more intricate than what previous studies suggest.

Abstract The expression of the channels-enzymes TRPM6 and TRPM7 in the human heart remains poorly defined, and TRPM6 is generally considered not to be expressed in cardiomyocytes. We examined their expression at protein and mRNA levels using right atrial samples resected from patients (n = 72) with or without ischemic heart disease (IHD) and samples from all chamber walls of explanted human hearts (n = 9). TRPM6 and TRPM7 proteins were detected using immunofluorescence on isolated cardiomyocytes, ELISA on tissue homogenates, and immunostaining of cardiac tissue, whereas their mRNAs were detected by RT-qPCR. Both TRPM6 and TRPM7 were present in all chamber walls, with TRPM7 being more abundant. TRPM6 was co-expressed with TRPM7. The expression levels were dependent on cell incubation conditions (presence or absence of divalent cations, pH of the extracellular milieu, presence of TRP channel inhibitors 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl-borate and carvacrol). These drugs reduced TRPM7 immunofluorescence but increased that of TRPM6. TRPM6 and TRPM7 expression was increased in tissues from IHD patients. This is the first demonstration of the presence and co-expression of TRPM6 and TRPM7 in cardiomyocytes from all chamber walls of the human heart. The increased TRPM6 and TRPM7 expression in IHD suggests that the chanzymes are involved in the pathophysiology of the disease.

Amidst growing migratory movements and hurdles of assimilation, the INTREF initiative strives to craft a comprehensive strategy for the schooling of refugee children, melding e-learning, emotional and social support, along with adaptable teaching methods. This endeavor learns on principles like linguistic diversity, cross-cultural skills, and customizing the educational journey, crucial for assimilation and triumph within academic settings. Studies indicate the indispensability of bespoke linguistic assistance, cognizance of cultural variances, and personalized educational tactics for the seamless school transition and societal assimilation of children in refuge. The project devised a survey instrument aimed at evaluating the baseline educational scenario in the participating nations and formulating education plans tailored to specific needs. This survey zeroes on four pivotal areas: linguistic proficiency, cross-cultural consciousness, embracing diversity, and pedagogical customization. Feedback from 31 students, 30 teachers and 28 parents revealed a pressing need for augmented linguistic aid in Slovenia, heightened cross-cultural understanding, and classroom method modification to enrich the academic experiences of culturally diverse children. The findings also underscore a discernible discrepancy between the perspectives of educators versus those of parents and children. The insights from this survey lay the groundwork for creating innovative instructional units and resources, finely adapted to the needs of children in refuge. By forging links between theoretical insights and practical application, as well as among various educational stakeholders, INTREF is ready to enrich the discourse and practices surrounding inclusivity, and endeavor made increasingly pertinent by the recent global disruptions, including the migratory dilemma and the COVID-19 outbreak.

The overall aim was to examine effects of differences in group ability and features of the anchor test form on equating bias and the standard error of equating (SEE) using both real and simulated data. Chained kernel equating, Postratification kernel equating, and Circle-arc equating were studied. A college admissions test with four different anchor test forms administered at three test administrations was used. The simulation study examined the differences in ability of the test groups, and differences in the anchor test form with respect to item difficulty and discrimination. In the empirical study, the equated values from the three methods only slightly differed. The simulation study indicated that an easier anchor test form and/or an easier regular test form, and anchor items with a wider spread in difficulty, negatively affected the SEE and bias. The ability level of groups was also important. Equating with only less or more capable groups resulted in high SEEs at higher and lower test scores, respectively. The discussion includes practical recommendations to whom an anchor test should be given if there is a choice and how to select an anchor test form which have equating as primary purpose.

The article presents the results of neuropsychological remote and face-to-face testing of 25 children aged 12 to 17 years in the nearest (during and 1-2 weeks after the treatment) and later period (2-12 months) after COVID-19 infection with predominant respiratory tract infection, organized in Ekaterinburg in the State Autonomous Institution "Children's Hospital № 8". Indication of family contact with patients with a new coronavirus infection was found in all patients, a positive nasopharyngeal swab for SARS-CoV-2 RNA by PCR was found in 58%, non-focal neurological complaints were found in 54% of children. The control group consisted of 25 pupils of Moscow comprehensive schools (14 girls and 11 boys) aged between 12 and 16 years who were examined before the pandemic. The methods included: investigation of the kinesthetic, spatial, dynamic, graphic praxis; auditory-motor coordination; visual, object-constructive gnosis; auditory-speech, visual memory; voluntary attention; thinking. Significant differences with the results of neuropsychological tests performed in children in the control group were found, allowing us to assert impairment of memory, attention, visual gnosis, visual-spatial function, kinesthetic and dynamic praxis, verbal and non-verbal component of thinking. According to A.R. Luria's theory, the topic of the disorders involves the temporo-parieto-occipital, mediobasal, frontotemporal parts of the brain, the reticular formation and limbic structures. This necessitates the development of corrective educational programs and an in-depth diagnostic algorithm that determines the morphological substrate of cognitive disorders in children, who have undergone COVID-19.