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Abstract Fieldwork, including work done at sea, is a key component of many geoscientists' careers. Recent studies have highlighted the pervasive harassment faced by women and LGBTQ+ people during fieldwork. However, transgender and gender diverse (TGD) scientists face obstacles which have not yet been thoroughly examined. We fill this gap by sharing our experiences as TGD people. We have experienced sexual harassment, misconduct, privacy issues, and legal and medical struggles as we conduct seagoing work. In this work, we provide recommendations for individuals, cruise leaders, and institutions for making seagoing work safer for our communities.

Abstract Twin girls born at 30 weeks' gestation with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) received onsasemnogene‐abeparvovec (OA) at 3.5 weeks of life. They had no treatment‐related adverse events, normal acquisition of motor milestones, and normal neurological examination at 19 months. Genotyping revealed 0 copies of SMN1 and a single, hybrid SMN2 gene containing the positive genetic modifier c.835‐44A>G. This was associated with full‐length SMN2 blood mRNA expression levels similar to a 2 copy SMA infant. The observed favorable outcomes are likely due to the genetic modifier combined with early drug administration enabled by prematurity.

Abstract Understanding how biotic interactions shape ecosystems and impact their functioning, resilience and biodiversity has been a sustained research priority in ecology. Yet, traditional assessments of ecological complexity typically focus on species-species interactions that mediate a particular function (e.g., pollination), overlooking both the synergistic effect that multiple functions might develop as well as the resulting species-function participation patterns that emerge in ecosystems that harbor multiple ecological functions. Here we propose a mathematical framework that integrates various types of biotic interactions observed between different species. Its application to recently collected data of an islet ecosystem—reporting 1537 interactions between 691 plants, animals and fungi across six different functions (pollination, herbivory, seed dispersal, decomposition, nutrient uptake, and fungal pathogenicity)—unveils a non-random, nested structure in the way plant species participate across different functions. The framework further allows us to identify a ranking of species and functions, where woody shrubs and fungal decomposition emerge as keystone actors whose removal have a larger-than-random effect on secondary extinctions. The dual insight—from species and functional perspectives—offered by the framework opens the door to a richer quantification of ecosystem complexity and to better calibrate the influence of multifunctionality on ecosystem functioning and biodiversity.

Abstract Although many studies predict extensive future biodiversity loss and redistribution in the terrestrial realm, future changes in marine biodiversity remain relatively unexplored. In this work, we model global shifts in one of the most important marine functional groups—ecosystem-structuring macrophytes—and predict substantial end-of-century change. By modelling the future distribution of 207 brown macroalgae and seagrass species at high temporal and spatial resolution under different climate-change projections, we estimate that by 2100, local macrophyte diversity will decline by 3–4% on average, with 17 to 22% of localities losing at least 10% of their macrophyte species. The current range of macrophytes will be eroded by 5–6%, and highly suitable macrophyte habitat will be substantially reduced globally (78–96%). Global macrophyte habitat will shift among marine regions, with a high potential for expansion in polar regions.

Abstract Objective Cenobamate is an antiseizure medication (ASM) associated with high rates of seizure freedom and acceptable tolerability in patients with focal seizures. To achieve the optimal cenobamate dose for maximal potential effectiveness while avoiding or minimizing drug‐related adverse events (AEs), the administration of cenobamate with other ASMs must be managed through concomitant ASM load reduction. A panel of Spanish epilepsy experts aimed to provide a Spanish consensus on how to adjust the dose of concomitant ASMs in patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE) in order to improve the effectiveness and tolerability of adjunctive cenobamate. Methods A three‐stage modified Delphi consensus process was undertaken, including six Spanish epileptologists with extensive experience using cenobamate. Based on current literature and their own expert opinion, the expert panel reached a consensus on when and how to adjust the dosage of concomitant ASMs during cenobamate titration. Results The expert panel agreed that tailored titration and close follow‐up are required to achieve the best efficacy and tolerability when initiating cenobamate in patients receiving concomitant ASMs. When concomitant clobazam, phenytoin, phenobarbital, and sodium channel blockers are taken at high dosages, or when the patient is receiving two or more sodium channel blockers, dosages should be proactively lowered during the cenobamate titration period. Other concomitant ASMs should be reduced only if the patient reports a moderate/severe AE at any stage of the titration period. Significance Cenobamate is an effective ASM with a dose‐dependent effect. To maximize effectiveness while maintaining the best tolerability profile, co‐medication management is needed. The recommendations included herein provide practical guidance for proactive and reactive management of co‐medication in cenobamate‐treated patients with DRE and a high drug load. Plain Language Summary Patients with epilepsy may continue to have seizures even after treatment with several different antiseizure medications (ASMs). Cenobamate is an ASM that can reduce seizures in these patients. In this study, six Spanish experts in epilepsy discussed the best way to use cenobamate in drug‐resistant epilepsy. They provide practical guidance on when and how the dose of other ASMs might be adjusted to reduce side effects and optimize the use of cenobamate.

Summary: The blood enzyme glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) has been postulated as an effective therapeutic to protect the brain during stroke. To demonstrate its potential clinical utility, a new human recombinant form of GOT (rGOT) was produced for medical use.We tested the pharmacokinetics and evaluated the protective efficacy of rGOT in rodent and non-human primate models that reflected clinical stroke conditions.We found that continuous intravenous administration of rGOT within the first 8 h after ischemic onset significantly reduced the infarct size in both severe (30%) and mild lesions (48%). Cerebrospinal fluid and proteomics analysis, in combination with positron emission tomography imaging, indicated that rGOT can reach the brain and induce cytoprotective autophagy and induce local protection by alleviating neuronal apoptosis.Our results suggest that rGOT can be safely used immediately in patients suspected of having a stroke. This study requires further validation in clinical stroke populations.

Entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) are a growing focus for policymakers and academics seeking to foster innovation and economic growth. While existing literature has analysed various aspects of EEs, limited research has examined how public policies can contribute to their development. Through a single-case study, this study addresses this gap by analysing the role of a regional government in overcoming the challenges of building an EE. We explore the creation and development of the Biscay Startup Bay (BSB) EE in Bilbao City (Bizkaia, Basque Country, Spain). We describe the unique framework that they crafted and implemented, highlighting the key attributes that generate value for all stakeholders. This single-case study of the BSB EE in Spain offers valuable insights for policymakers seeking to design and implement successful Open Innovation-driven approaches to creating and developing regional EEs.

BackgroundPediatric kidney transplantations are rarely performed, and there is limited knowledge about the diversity in current clinical practices across Europe. This study aims to explore the utility of clinical snapshot studies in identifying these disparities, establishing a foundation for future snapshot studies and standardization efforts.MethodsA pilot clinical snapshot study was conducted, with invitations extended to all 109 pediatric kidney transplant centres in Europe. Each participating centre provided pre-, peri-, and postoperative data concerning their most recent thirty transplantations. The primary outcomes encompassed the evaluation of disparities in donor-recipient selection, surgical techniques, post-operative drainage procedures, and immunosuppressive therapy protocols. Secondary outcomes involved the analysis of rejection rates, incidence of infections, and graft survival.ResultsThe study involved 439 patients from fifteen centres (14%) in twelve countries, with varying transplant volumes (range 1–29 transplantations per year) and follow-up periods. Significant differences were found among centres in terms of donor types, cold and warm ischemia time, pre-emptive transplant rates, and kidney transplant drainage methods. The rate of living donors varied between 3% and 90% and the median duration of cold ischemia ranged was 770 min after deceased donation and 147 min after living donation. Basiliximab was the dominant induction therapy, yet steroid withdrawal varied widely. Infection, rejection, and graft survival rates also varied significantly between centres.ConclusionThis study revealed substantial variation in clinical practices among European centres performing pediatric kidney transplantations. These findings could serve as a stimulus for international dialogue and collaboration.

Over millennia, mammals have coexisted with humans across the forest-savannah mosaics characterising part of West Africa. While some savannahs have long been used for rice cultivation in Guinea-Bissau, savannas and forests are now being rapidly converted into cashew monocultures. To understand how species cope with such land-use changes, we investigated how mammals make use of forest patches, cashew orchards and rice paddies over two contrasting periods: early and late rainy season. Using camera-trapping, we examined mammal diversity and trophic guild activity across seven landscapes, each with one sampling site per habitat type in Northern Guinea-Bissau. Based on 937 records from 21 species, species richness and activity were similar across habitat types, but generally higher in the late-rainy season. In this season, species composition differed between the cashew orchards and rice paddies. At the guild-level, carnivore activity was lower in the rice paddies than in forests, while herbivore activity was lower in the cashew orchards in comparison to that in forests in the early-rainy season. The relatively similar assemblage-wide diversity across habitat types seems to be enabled by the high habitat heterogeneity, but likely offset by previous extinctions from the area. Yet, guild-level habitat use highlighted the fundamental role of forests to sustain functionally healthy mammal assemblages. Maintaining habitat heterogeneity, including patches of native forests, seems to be key in optimizing the long-term conservation of mammal diversity in rural West Africa.

Background and objectives: Fibrosis contributes to 45% of deaths in industrialized nations and is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). There are no specific anti-fibrotic treatments for liver fibrosis, and previous unsuccessful attempts at drug development have focused on preventing ECM deposition. Because liver fibrosis is largely acknowledged to be reversible, regulating fibrosis resolution could offer novel therapeutical options. However, little is known about the mechanisms controlling ECM remodeling during resolution. Changes in proteolytic activity are essential for ECM homeostasis and macrophages are an important source of proteases. Herein, in this study we evaluate the role of macrophage-derived cathepsin D (CtsD) during liver fibrosis. Methods: CtsD expression and associated pathways were characterized in single-cell RNA sequencing and transcriptomic datasets in human cirrhosis. Liver fibrosis progression, reversion and functional characterization were assessed in novel myeloid-CtsD and hepatocyte-CtsD knock-out mice. Results: Analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing datasets demonstrated CtsD was expressed in macrophages and hepatocytes in human cirrhosis. Liver fibrosis progression, reversion and functional characterization were assessed in novel myeloid-CtsD (CtsDΔMyel) and hepatocyte-CtsD knock-out mice. CtsD deletion in macrophages, but not in hepatocytes, resulted in enhanced liver fibrosis. Both inflammatory and matrisome proteomic signatures were enriched in fibrotic CtsDΔMyel livers. Besides, CtsDΔMyel liver macrophages displayed functional, phenotypical and secretomic changes, which resulted in a degradomic phenotypical shift, responsible for the defective proteolytic processing of collagen I in vitro and impaired collagen remodeling during fibrosis resolution in vivo. Finally, CtsD-expressing mononuclear phagocytes of cirrhotic human livers were enriched in lysosomal and ECM degradative signaling pathways. Conclusions: Our work describes for the first-time CtsD-driven lysosomal activity as a central hub for restorative macrophage function during fibrosis resolution and opens new avenues to explore their degradome landscape to inform drug development.

Abstract Audiovisual news is a critical cultural phenomenon that has been influencing audience worldviews for more than a hundred years. To understand historical trends in multimodal audiovisual news, we need to explore them longitudinally using large sets of data. Despite promising developments in film history, computational video analysis, and other relevant fields, current research streams have limitations related to the scope of data used, the systematism of analysis, and the modalities and elements to be studied in audiovisual material and its metadata. Simultaneously, each disciplinary approach contributes significant input to research reducing these limitations. We therefore advocate for combining the strengths of several disciplines. Here we propose a multidisciplinary framework for systematically studying large collections of historical audiovisual news to gain a coherent picture of their temporal dynamics, cultural diversity, and potential societal effects across several quantitative and qualitative dimensions of analysis. By using newsreels as an example of such complex historically formed data, we combine the context crucial to qualitative approaches with the systematicity and ability to cover large amounts of data from quantitative methods. The framework template for historical newsreels is exemplified by a case study of the “News of the Day” newsreel series produced in the Soviet Union during 1944–1992. The proposed framework enables a more nuanced analysis of longitudinal collections of audiovisual news, expanding our understanding of the dynamics of global knowledge cultures.

Abstract Background The emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants and the waning of immunity raise concerns about vaccine effectiveness and protection against COVID-19. While antibody response has been shown to correlate with the risk of infection with the original variant and earlier variants of concern, the effectiveness of antibody-mediated protection against Omicron and the factors associated with protection remain uncertain. Methods We evaluated antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) and nucleocapsid (N) antigens from Wuhan and variants of concern by Luminex and their role in preventing breakthrough infections 1 year after a third dose of mRNA vaccination, in a cohort of health care workers followed since the pandemic onset in Spain (N = 393). Data were analyzed in relation to COVID-19 history, demographic factors, comorbidities, vaccine doses, brand, and adverse events. Results Higher levels of anti-S IgG and IgA to Wuhan, Delta, and Omicron were associated with protection against vaccine breakthroughs (IgG against Omicron S antigen HR, 0.06, 95%CI, 0.26–0.01). Previous SARS-CoV-2 infection was positively associated with antibody levels and protection against breakthroughs, and a longer time since last infection was associated with lower protection. In addition, priming with BNT162b2 followed by mRNA-1273 booster was associated with higher antibody responses than homologous mRNA-1273 vaccination. Conclusions Data show that IgG and IgA induced by vaccines against the original strain or by hybrid immunization are valid correlates of protection against Omicron BA.1 despite immune escape and support the benefits of heterologous vaccination regimens to enhance antibodies and the prioritization of booster vaccination in individuals without recent infections.

Abstract. Introduction:. Neuropathic pain (NP) poses significant challenges for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), often inadequately managed by current interventions. Immersive virtual reality (IVR) has emerged as a promising approach for pain modulation, yet robust evidence is lacking. Objectives:. This pilot study investigated the analgesic effects of different IVR environments (scenic, somatic) compared with a control environment, and explored psychomotor properties influencing pain attenuation. Methods:. Twenty-two participants with NP caused by SCI were randomized into 3 IVR environments: somatic (n = 8), scenic (n = 7), and control (n = 8), undergoing 3 weekly sessions over 4 weeks with baseline, postintervention, and one-month follow-ups. Results:. There was a significant interaction effect between VR environment and time point on Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory scores (F(4,37.0) = 2.80, P = 0.04). Scenic VR participants exhibited reduced scores postintervention and at follow-up, with no significant changes in somatic VR or control environments. Similar trends were observed in secondary measures, such as Neuropathic Pain Scale and pain numeric rating scale. Enjoyment and presence were associated with decreased pain-change scores (F(1, 252) = 4.68, P = 0.03 for enjoyment; F(1, 223.342) = 7.92, P = 0.005 for presence), although not significantly influenced by VR environment or time point. Conclusion:. Both environments showed reduced pain outcomes, underscoring the need for personalized IVR pain therapies and informing further technology development for NP management.

The convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and mobile learning (mLearning) has revolutionized digital education, heralding a transformative paradigm shift in learning methodologies. AI-powered mLearning holds promise but requires deep understanding of pedagogical principles. Concerns over smartphone overuse have heightened discussions about mLearning integration. In this context, with the rising penetration of AI in various educational settings, it is crucial that research delves into the pedagogically sound integration of AI into mLearning environments. A systematic literature review of forty-two articles has yielded a framework summarizing mLearning attributes, functionalities, and their impact on transversal learning principles highlighting the profound impact of AI.

Newsreels, short documentary news films, were an influential channel of mass communication and propaganda in the Soviet Union. They served as an important means of visualizing the world for audiences in the way the Soviet authorities wanted it to be depicted. Studies in Soviet visual culture have recognized both continuities of repeating patterns and changes in the post-World War II period. This understanding is based primarily on temporally limited source selections, while a more systematic study of the developments in Soviet visual culture over a longer period is pending. In this article, we reveal long-term continuities, subtle changes, and sudden shifts in the official visual discourse in the Soviet newsreel series ‘Novosti dnia’ (News of the Day) 1945 to 1992. We study visual patterns in approximately 1,700 digitized newsreel issues, each about ten minutes long, using multidimensional vector embeddings. These embeddings, produced from the central frames of 205,678 shots, help visually evaluate the footage and assess visual similarities based on ResNet50 feature vectors. For this, we use the _Collection Space Navigator_ tool. The article demonstrates how multidimensional vector embeddings can be used to study the internal time of the films, and the external time of the years running by.

Genetic differentiation between populations inhabiting ecologically different habitats might appear because of limited dispersal and gene flow, which may lead to patterns of phenotypic divergence and local adaptation. In this study, we use dispersal, genotypic (24 microsatellite loci) and phenotypic (body size and clutch size) data to analyse patterns of genetic structuring and phenotypic divergence in a blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) population inhabiting a continuous and heterogeneous woodland along a valley. The two slopes of the valley differ in their forest formations and environmental conditions. Findings showed that most blue tits reproduced within their natal slope. Accordingly, microsatellite analyses revealed that populations of blue tits established in the two slopes show subtle genetic differentiation. The two genetic populations diverged in clutch size, exceeding the level of differentiation expected based on genetic drift, hence suggesting divergent selection (or other processes promoting divergence) on this life-history trait. Our findings reveal that restricted dispersal and spatial heterogeneity may lead to genetic differentiation among bird populations at a surprisingly small scale. In this respect, it is worth highlighting that such differentiation occurs for an organism with high dispersal capacity and within a continuous woodland. Moreover, we show that small-scale ecological differences, together with limited gene flow, can result in selection favouring different phenotypes even within the same continuum population.

Abstract At the end of 2020, an outbreak of HPAI H5N8 was registered in captive African houbara bustards (Chlamydotis undulata) in the United Arab Emirates. In order to better understand the pathobiology of this viral infection in bustards, a comprehensive pathological characterization was performed. A total of six birds were selected for necropsy, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, RNAscope in situ hybridization and RT-qPCR and nanopore sequencing on formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks. Gross lesions included mottled and/or hemorrhagic pancreas, spleen and liver and fibrinous deposits on air sacs and intestine. Necrotizing pancreatitis, splenitis and concurrent vasculitis, hepatitis and fibrino-heterophilic peritonitis were identified, microscopically. Viral antigens (nucleoprotein) and RNAs (matrix gene) were both detected within necro-inflammatory foci, parenchymal cells, stromal cells and endothelial cells of affected organs, including the myenteric plexus. Molecular analysis of FFPE blocks successfully detected HPAI H5N8, further confirming its involvement in the lesions observed. In conclusion, HPAI H5N8 in African houbara bustards results in hyperacute/acute forms exhibiting marked pantropism, endotheliotropism and neurotropism. In addition, our findings support the use of FFPE tissues for molecular studies of poorly characterized pathogens in exotic and endangered species, when availability of samples is limited.

[INLINE:1] Plaques of amyloid-β (Aβ) and neurofibrillary tangles are the main pathological characteristics of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, some older adult people with AD pathological hallmarks can retain cognitive function. Unraveling the factors that lead to this cognitive resilience to AD offers promising prospects for identifying new therapeutic targets. Our hypothesis focuses on the contribution of resilience to changes in excitatory synapses at the structural and molecular levels, which may underlie healthy cognitive performance in aged AD animals. Utilizing the Morris Water Maze test, we selected resilient (asymptomatic) and cognitively impaired aged Tg2576 mice. While the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed similar levels of Aβ42 in both experimental groups, western blot analysis revealed differences in tau pathology in the pre-synaptic supernatant fraction. To further investigate the density of synapses in the hippocampus of 16–18 month-old Tg2576 mice, we employed stereological and electron microscopic methods. Our findings indicated a decrease in the density of excitatory synapses in the stratum radiatum of the hippocampal CA1 in cognitively impaired Tg2576 mice compared with age-matched resilient Tg2576 and non-transgenic controls. Intriguingly, through quantitative immunoelectron microscopy in the hippocampus of impaired and resilient Tg2576 transgenic AD mice, we uncovered differences in the subcellular localization of glutamate receptors. Specifically, the density of GluA1, GluA2/3, and mGlu5 in spines and dendritic shafts of CA1 pyramidal cells in impaired Tg2576 mice was significantly reduced compared with age-matched resilient Tg2576 and non-transgenic controls. Notably, the density of GluA2/3 in resilient Tg2576 mice was significantly increased in spines but not in dendritic shafts compared with impaired Tg2576 and non-transgenic mice. These subcellular findings strongly support the hypothesis that dendritic spine plasticity and synaptic machinery in the hippocampus play crucial roles in the mechanisms of cognitive resilience in Tg2576 mice.

Introduction: We conducted a comprehensive comparative analysis of the Okazaki, Umehara, and American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) classification criteria for diagnosing immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD). Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in a single tertiary hospital, using expert clinical judgment as the gold standard. We compared the diagnostic accuracy of the Okazaki, Umehara, and ACR/EULAR criteria in a cohort of 41 patients with suspected IgG4-RD. We assessed sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for each criterion, and conducted a separate analysis based on four IgG4-RD subtypes. Results: A total of 30 patients were confirmed to have IgG4-RD and 11 were identified as mimickers. The Umehara criteria demonstrated the highest sensitivity (83.33%), followed by the ACR/EULAR 2019 (66.67%) and Okazaki (60.0%) criteria. All three criteria exhibited 100% specificity, with overall diagnostic accuracy ranging from 70% to 88%. The areas under the curve (AUC) were 0.917 (Umehara), 0.800 (Okazaki), and 0.833 (ACR/EULAR 2019), indicating significant diagnostic effectiveness (p < 0.000). Subtype analysis revealed that the Umehara and ACR/EULAR 2019 criteria were more effective in diagnosing pancreato-hepato-biliary involvement (subtype 1), while the Okazaki and ACR/EULAR 2019 criteria were more effective in diagnosing retroperitoneal fibrosis and/or aortitis (subtype 2). Conclusions: Our study provides valuable insights into the diagnostic performance of the Okazaki, Umehara, and ACR/EULAR criteria for a cohort of patients with suspected IgG4-RD. The Umehara criterion demonstrated the highest sensitivity, suggesting its potential utility for screening purposes, while all three criteria showed consistent specificity.

Wild food plants (WFPs) are crucial for the subsistence of many human populations. While there are at least 7000 edible plant species in the world, only approximately 420 are considered food crops. WFPs are often studied from the phytochemical and pharmacological point of view, because they include available food components with nutraceutical value. The present study aims to highlight the nutritional value of WFPs traditionally used in the Catalan linguistic area, providing detailed insights and discussing the significance of these properties. Information about the nutritional properties of 93 taxa, coming from ethnobotanical prospection, has been collected through an extensive bibliographic research. The results reveal that WFPs are rich in nutrients, especially micronutrients. Furthermore, in selected species, those for which nutritional information and a cultivated homologue are available, the nutrient content in wild taxa exceeds than of phylogenetically related crop plants with similar use. Traditional wild plant preparation forms for food and the nutritional value of a menu constituted by wild food plants are presented. This research represents a preliminary step toward selecting certain taxa that could be developed into new small- or large-scale crops or sustainably harvested in the wild, contributing to food security.