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Abstract Background Stress responses are key the survival of parasites and, consequently, also the evolutionary success of these organisms. Despite this importance, our understanding of the evolution of molecular pathways dealing with environmental stressors in parasitic animals remains limited. Here, we tested the link between adaptive evolution of parasite stress response genes and their ecological diversity and species richness. We comparatively investigated antioxidant, heat shock, osmoregulatory, and behaviour-related genes (foraging) in two model parasitic flatworm lineages with contrasting ecological diversity, Cichlidogyrus and Kapentagyrus (Platyhelminthes: Monopisthocotyla), through whole-genome sequencing of 11 species followed by in silico exon bait capture as well as phylogenetic and codon analyses. Results We assembled the sequences of 48 stress-related genes and report the first foraging (For) gene orthologs in flatworms. We found duplications of heat shock (Hsp) and oxidative stress genes in Cichlidogyrus compared to Kapentagyrus. We also observed positive selection patterns in genes related to mitochondrial protein import (H sp) and behaviour (For) in species of Cichlidogyrus infecting East African cichlids—a host lineage under adaptive radiation. These patterns are consistent with a potential adaptation linked to a co-radiation of these parasites and their hosts. Additionally, the absence of cytochrome P450 and kappa and sigma-class glutathione S-transferases in monogenean flatworms is reported, genes considered essential for metazoan life. Conclusions This study potentially identifies the first molecular function linked to a flatworm radiation. Furthermore, the observed gene duplications and positive selection indicate the potentially important role of stress responses for the ecological adaptation of parasite species.

Rääkimisoskuse arendamine on eesti keele kui teise keele õppes väga oluline, kuid sageli ei tegeleta sellega keeletundides piisavas mahus ega kasutata tõhusaid õppetegevusi (Metslang jt 2013; Kitsnik 2020a; Bernhardt & Meristo 2023; Tomusk 2024). Tunnis toimuva määrab peamiselt õpetaja (Gardner 2007), õppematerjalidel on aga tunnitegevuste mõjutajana samuti oluline roll (Tomlinson 2022). Artiklis vaatlen enda läbi viidud tegevusuuringut B1-taseme rääkimisoskuse õpetamisel uue õppekomplekti “Naljaga ...” (Kitsnik & Kingisepp 2021a) järgi. Tegevusuuringu eesmärk oli katsetada õpiku kommunikatiivseid rääkimisülesandeid. Artiklis analüüsin õppijate ja enda kui õpetaja hinnanguid rääkimisülesannete uudsusele, huvitavusele, kergusele ja kasulikkusele. Õpikus kasutatud rääkimisülesannete tüübid (küsimuslipikutega klassis ringikäimine ja eri paarilistega vestlemine, lauamängud, rollikaartidega dialoogid, improteatri formaadis dialoogid) olid õppijaile uudsed ning huvitavad. Ülesannete kergus oli erinev ning ülesanded muutusid kordudes kergemaks. Ülesandeid peeti väga kasulikeks ning õppijate ja õpetaja hinnangul arenes enim õppijate rääkimissoov ja rääkimisjulgus, aga ka endaloodud suulise teksti keerukus, täpsus, sujuvus ning suhtlussituatsioonides toimetulek. "Developing Estonian speaking skills according to the B1 level textbook ”Naljaga ...”: A case study." The textbook “Naljaga ...” (Kitsnik & Kingisepp 2021a) is the first part of the B1 level Estonian language study set “Naljaga pooleks” (Kitsnik & Kingisepp 2021a, 2021b). The article describes the speaking tasks of the textbook and analyzes their use in a 120-hour B1 level language course taught by one of the authors of the textbook and the author of this article, Mare Kitsnik. In order to develop speaking skills, it is necessary to receive a lot of linguistic input, that is, to hear a lot of natural and interesting language use (Krashen 1985), and to try to use the language a lot, while fulfilling one’s communication goals and discussing meanings with peers (Swain 1993; Larsen-Freeman 2007). Linguistic input in textbook “Naljaga ...” is provided through fun listening dialogues written by the authors of the textbook, which focus on the expression of different level-appropriate communication actions and communication functions. To use the language, the textbook has created tasks that develop conversational skills and tasks for creating a longer monologue. The tasks are based on active learning, contain communication gaps and are gamified. Task types are: going around with question tags, board games, dialogues in the format of improtheater, storytelling tasks and discussion tasks. The students rated the novelty, interest, ease and usefulness of the listening dialogues and speaking tasks on Likert scales, and also provided feedback through free-response questions. Additionally, a teacher’s diary was maintained throughout the course, capturing observations on the novelty, interest, ease, and usefulness of the speaking tasks. Although all course participants had studied Estonian many times before, the speaking tasks of the textbook “Naljaga ...” were mostly new to them. The tasks were interesting for the learners. The ease of the speaking tasks varied from medium to easy. At the beginning, it was quite difficult for the learners to hold spontaneous dialogues, in which the speech of the interlocutor cannot be predicted exactly in advance. Speaking tasks were generally considered very useful. Evaluating the development of their Estonian language skills, the learners considered the desire to speak to be the most developed during the course, and the courage to speak and the complexity and accuracy of the oral text they created also developed quite a lot.

Aims. Multiple sclerosis treatment strategies are changing in the Czech Republic. According to data from 2013-2021, the proportion of patients starting high-efficacy disease-modifying therapies is increasing. In this survey, we describe the actual data trends in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients beginning their first disease‑modifying therapies (DMTs) from 2013 to 2021. The secondary objective was to present the history, data collection, and scientific potential of the Czech National MS registry (ReMuS). Methods. First, using descriptive statistics, we analysed the data for patients starting their first DMTs, either platform (including dimethyl fumarate) or high-efficacy DMTs (HE-DMTs), for each successive year. Second, a detailed description of the history, data collection, completeness, quality optimising procedures, and legal policies of ReMuS is provided. Results. Based on the dataset from December 31, 2021, the total number of monitored patients with MS in ReMuS increased from 9,019 in 2013 (referred from 7 of 15 MS centres) to 12,940 in 2016 (referred from all 15 Czech MS centres) to 17,478 in 2021. In these years, the percentage of patients treated with DMTs in the registry ranged from 76 to 83%, but the proportion of patients treated with HE-DMTs changed from 16.2% in 2013 to 37.1% in 2021. During the follow-up period, a total of 8,491 treatment-naive patients received DMTs. The proportion of patients (all MS phenotypes) starting HE-DMTs increased from 2.1% in 2013 to 18.5% in 2021. Conclusion. Patient registries, including ReMuS, provide an essential quality data source, especially in light of the increasing percentage of patients on HE-DMTs. Although early initiation of HE-DMT can provide considerable benefits, it also carries greater potential risks. Consistent long-term follow-up of patients in real‑world clinical practice, which only registries allow, is therefore crucial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of therapeutic strategies, for epidemiological research and to assist decision making by healthcare providers and regulatory bodies.

Summary: The use of archival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue samples for biochemical analyses is problematic because of the formation of a Schiff base, leading to low protein and metabolite yields during analytical extractions. Here, we overcome this issue using a unified protocol on FFPE tissue for metabolomics and proteomics analyses. Using 20 mg of wet mass tissue, this protocol consistently extracted more than 50 metabolites (across 11 classes of metabolites) and over 900 proteins. : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

The article focuses on the initiation, spread, and implementation of the tradition of the night of ancient bonfires, mapping the cultural environment and describing the internal and external socio-cultural factors, as well as connections to identity creation of celebrating the last Sunday in August on the seashore. Data were collected through interviews and observations, and qualitative approach was used to reconstruct the dynamic of private and institutionalised marking. In the 21st century, bonfires are interpreted as remembrance of the past and continuation of tradition, based on ethnic identity. The authors present some comparative phenomena in the vicinity of Europe.

Abstract Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating chronic condition that is characterized by unresolved fatigue, post-exertion symptom exacerbation (PESE), cognitive dysfunction, orthostatic intolerance, and other symptoms. ME/CFS lacks established clinical biomarkers and requires further elucidation of disease mechanisms. A growing number of studies demonstrate signs of hematological and cardiovascular pathology in ME/CFS cohorts, including hyperactivated platelets, endothelial dysfunction, vascular dysregulation, and anomalous clotting processes. To build on these findings, and to identify potential biomarkers that can be related to pathophysiology, we measured differences in protein expression in platelet-poor plasma (PPP) samples from 15 ME/CFS study participants and 10 controls not previously infected with SARS-CoV-2, using DIA LC-MS/MS. We identified 24 proteins that are significantly increased in the ME/CFS group compared to the controls, and 21 proteins that are significantly downregulated. Proteins related to clotting processes – thrombospondin-1 (important in platelet activation), platelet factor 4, and protein S – were differentially expressed in the ME/CFS group, suggestive of a dysregulated coagulation system and abnormal endothelial function. Complement machinery was also significantly downregulated, including C9 which forms part of the membrane attack complex. Additionally, we identified a significant upregulation of lactotransferrin, protein S100-A9, and an immunoglobulin variant. The findings from this experiment further implicate the coagulation and immune system in ME/CFS, and bring to attention the pathology of or imposed on the endothelium. This study highlights potential systems and proteins that require further research with regards to their contribution to the pathogenesis of ME/CFS, symptom manifestation, and biomarker potential, and also gives insight into the hematological and cardiovascular risk for ME/CFS individuals affected by diabetes mellitus. Graphical abstract

COVID-19 challenged the entire population of the world, affected everyone, and all spheres of life, changing the content and ways of communication, cultural habits. The article investigates COVID-19 on Saaremaa island, looking at 1) how islanders with their limited territory and resources and therefore greater vulnerability copied during the pandemic; 2) the choices that individuals made in their everyday lives; 3) I present the mechanisms what people used for healing and prevention of COVID-19.

Abstract Background The impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on outcome in perioperative organ injury (POI) has not yet been investigated sufficiently. Methods This retrospective cohort study analysed data of surgical patients with POI, namely delirium, stroke, acute myocardial infarction, acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute liver injury (ALI), or acute kidney injury (AKI), in Germany between 2015 and 2019. We compared in-hospital mortality, hospital length of stay (HLOS) and perioperative ventilation time (VT) in patients with and without COPD. Results We analysed the data of 1,642,377 surgical cases with POI of which 10.8% suffered from COPD. In-hospital mortality was higher (20.6% vs. 15.8%, p

Salmonella is a Gram-negative, non-spore-forming, motile, facultative anaerobic rod. The most studied species are Salmonella typhi and paratyphi (causing typhoid fever) and non-typhi Salmonella species (which can cause different clinical syndromes - gastroenteritis, disseminated infections, etc.). A 61-year-old male patient with multiple comorbidities (including myelofibrosis) presented to the Pulmonology outpatient department, Clinical County Hospital of Târgu Mureș, with a mucopurulent nocturnal cough. Paraclinical examinations showed the presence of a pleural empyema, which was evacuated in local anesthesia. The pleural fluid was sent to the Microbiology Department for bacteriological testing, where a fluoroquinolone-resistant strain of Salmonella spp. was detected. The patient received antibiotic treatment according to the antibiotic susceptibility testing. Due to the persistence of the symptoms, the patient returned two weeks later, when another puncture was performed. Salmonella was isolated again, but the strain showed a higher resistance to antibiotics. The two strains were compared using molecular methods of diagnosis (Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus Polymerase Chain Reaction - ERIC-PCR), the results showing a similarity of 92%. The occurrence of an extra amplicon band in ERIC-PCR suggests an important change in the bacterial genetic material, potentially related to acquisition of antibiotic resistance factors.

Nile blue has been widely used in histological staining, fluorescence labeling, and DNA probing, with its intercalation behavior into the DNA helix being well documented. Here, we present a comprehensive investigation to address a current knowledge gap regarding the binding properties of Nile blue to two types of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA): poly(A·U) and poly(I·C), using various biophysical techniques. Absorption and fluorescence spectroscopic studies suggest a significant binding interaction between Nile blue and the two designated dsRNAs, specifically indicating an intercalation binding mode with poly(A·U) and demonstrating a noticeably higher binding affinity compared to poly(I·C). The binding stoichiometry was further determined by Job's plot to be 0.47 for poly(A·U) and 1.0 for poly(I·C). The increased relative viscosity and changes in the circular dichroism (CD) ellipticity of dsRNA after interacting with Nile blue indicate the stacking of Nile blue dyes between the RNA duplexes. These changes suggest a conformational alteration of the dsRNAs and confirm the intercalation mode of binding. The thermal dynamic analysis demonstrates that both binding were favored by negative enthalpy and primarily driven by the hydrophobic effect.

ObjectivesThis study aimed to simultaneously and bilingually validate the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC 2.0) and the Safety Attitudes Questionnaire (SAQ).MethodsThe validation included translation, cultural adaptation, and assessment of validity and consistency. Data were collected in three hospitals in 2022 via online and paper surveys, with Estonian- and Russian-speaking employees participating.ResultsIn total, 579 (30%) participants from the three hospitals completed both questionnaires. Among them, 293 (51%) were Russian-speaking and 286 (49%) were Estonian-speaking. Cronbach’s αhy for HSOPSC 2.0 was ≥0.60, except in the Russian version for the three dimensions. Cronbach’s α for SAQ was ≥0.60, except in the Russian version for one dimension. Pearson’s correlations of the Estonian HSOPSC 2.0 ranged from 0.26 to 0.60 and in the Russian version from 0.18 to 0.47.ConclusionThe validity of the HSOPSC 2.0 and SAQ questionnaires was confirmed in the Estonian versions. Minor corrections were recommended for the Russian. Both versions are considered suitable for assessing PSC in Estonian hospitals.

Abstract To elucidate the adaptation of the right ventricle to acute and intermittently sustained afterload elevation, targeted preload reductions and afterload increases were implemented in a porcine model involving 12 pigs. Preload reduction was achieved via balloon occlusion of the inferior vena cava before, immediately and 5 min after acute afterload elevation induced by pulmonary artery occlusion or thromboxane A2 analog (U46619) infusion. Ventricular response was monitored by registration of pressure–volume (PV) loops using a conductance catheter. The end-systolic pressure–volume relationship (ESPVR) during pure preload reduction was adequately described by linear regression (mean and SEM slope of ESPVR (Ees) 0.414 ± 0.064 mmHg/ml), reflecting the classical Frank-Starling mechanism (FSM). The ESPVR during acute afterload elevation exhibited a biphasic trajectory with significantly distinct slopes (mean and SEM Ees bilin1: 1.256 ± 0.066 mmHg ml; Ees bilin2: 0.733 ± 0.063 mmHg ml, p

Abstract Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the leading chronic diseases worldwide. However, the impact of COPD on outcome after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains unclear. In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed the data of hospitalized patients undergoing PCI in Germany between 2015 and 2019. We compared in-hospital mortality, hospital length of stay and peri-interventional ventilation time (VT) in patients with and without COPD, including different COPD severity grades, COPD with exacerbation (COPDe) and infection (COPDi). We analyzed the data of 3,464,369 cases undergoing PCI. A total of 291,707 patients (8.4%) suffered from COPD. Patients suffering from COPD died more often (2.4% vs. 2.0%; p

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to explore antibiotic prescribing practices for dental implant placement in Croatia. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study including dentists in Croatia who perform dental implant therapy. The questionnaire assessed the dentists’ age, working experience, education level, and whether they use antibiotics for dental implant placement, as well as the choice of antibiotics, timing, and reasons for antibiotics use. We used snowball and convenient sampling methods for recruiting dentists. Categorical data were described as absolute numbers and percentages. Differences in the use of antibiotics for specific health conditions were analyzed using Chi-Square, with p < 0.05. Results: Overall, 74 dentists completed the survey. The dentists used antibiotics either before and after (N = 37, 48.7%), before (N = 21; 27.6%), or after dental implant placement (N = 17, 22.4%). Most used Amoxicillin (N = 47, 61.8%), or Amoxicillin–clavulanic acid (N = 22, 28.9%). Almost all dentists used antibiotics in patients with artificial heart valves (N = 73, 97.3%) and a history of infective endocarditis (N = 74, 98.7%). Also, the dentists reported using antibiotics in patients with artificial joints (N = 52, 69.3%), diabetes (N = 48, 64%), HIV (N = 51, 34.2%), or those on antiresorptive drugs (N = 46, 61.3%), with 17 dentists (22.7%) prescribing antibiotics to all (p < 0.001). The main reasons for antibiotic prophylaxis were preventing complications at the implant site (N = 56; 73.7%) and reducing the early implant failure rate (N = 32; 42.1%). Around one-third of the dentists (34.2%) used antibiotics for their own safety. Conclusions: Croatian dentists may be overprescribing antibiotics during dental implant placement. Clear recommendations concerning antibiotic prophylaxis for dental implant therapy are needed to make well-informed clinical decisions.

Background: Emerging evidence shows that long-term exposure to air pollution, road traffic noise, and greenness can each be associated with cardiovascular disease, but only few studies combined these exposures. In this study, we assessed associations of multiple environmental exposures and incidence of myocardial infarction using annual time-varying predictors. Materials and Methods: In a population-based cohort of 20,407 women in Sweden, we estimated a five-year moving average of residential exposure to air pollution (PM2.5, PM10 and NO2), road traffic noise (Lden), and greenness (normalized difference vegetation index, NDVI in 500 m buffers), from 1998 to 2017 based on annually varying exposures and address history. We used adjusted time-varying Cox proportional hazards regressions to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CI) of myocardial infarction per interquartile range (IQR). Furthermore, we investigated interactions between the exposures and explored potential vulnerable subgroups. Results: In multi-exposure models, long-term exposure to greenness was inversely associated with incidence of myocardial infarction (HR 0.89; 95 % CI 0.80, 0.99 per IQR NDVI increase). Stronger associations were observed in some subgroups, e.g. among women with low attained education and in overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) compared to their counterparts. For air pollution, we observed a tendency of an increased risk of myocardial infarction in relation to PM2.5 (HR 1.07; 95 % CI 0.93, 1.23) and the association appeared stronger in women with low attained education (HR 1.30; 95 % CI 1.06, 1.58). No associations were observed for PM10, NO2 or road traffic noise. Furthermore, there were no clear interaction patterns between the exposures. Conclusion: Over a 20-year follow-up period, in multi-exposure models, we found an inverse association between residential greenness and risk of myocardial infarction among women. Furthermore, we observed an increased risk of myocardial infarction in relation to PM2.5 among women with low attained education. Road traffic noise was not associated with myocardial infarction.

The article treats the two sides of book policy — prohibitive and creative — using the example of the Republic of Estonia. If the earlier period of book history was dominated by persecution of authors and the prohibition of books, then contemporary democratic societies manifest freedom of expression, stimulating the dissemination of the most diverse ideas. Freedom of expression, however, does not exist without limits. In the Republic of Estonia in 1918-1940, a special law on the press (1923) introduced post-publication censorship, aimed at the protection of morality. Several books were banned and confiscated on the basis of this law. The other rationale for prohibiting books was the protection of national security, which led to the prohibition of some political publications. In contemporary Estonia, the limitations to freedom of expression entail, like in pre-war Estonia, the protection of public order and morals, but also the rights, freedom, health, honor, and good name of other people. The criminal code prohibits the inciting of national, racial, religious, or political hatred, or propagating violence and disseminating pornography among minors. The freedom to publish all kinds of publications has not been abused to a great extent by publishing dubious publications in Estonia since 1991. The case of publishing "The Protocols of the Elders of Zion" in 1993 caused a discussion about the boundaries of freedom of expression. It was generally agreed that though controversial texts could be accessible to readers, they should be issued with commentaries explaining their origin. The other side of book policy concentrates on fostering the production and distribution of books. The realization of this idea in Estonia dates back to the 1920s when the Cultural Endowment was founded in 1925. The main source of income of the Endowment was the 2.5 percent allocation from the state alcohol excise. The subsidies by the Endowment became the main channel through which the state could influence the development of culture. It preferred to subsidize creative and academic societies that played an important role in publishing scholarly and popular-science publications. The writers were supported through a system of prizes for the books already published—another instrument for fostering works that were in accordance with the official cultural policy. The Endowment had a major role in guaranteeing the high level and diversity of book production in Estonia in the 1920s-1930s. After the restoration of independence in Estonia in 1991, subventions for books have been allocated through the Ministry of Culture. Besides that, the Cultural Endowment was restored in 1995. It subsidizes, above all, the publications of contemporary Estonian fiction and publications on art and culture. In comparison with the pre-war years, the authors and publishers are granted allocations on a larger scale, and the share of scholarly societies is more modest. The issuing of research results is mainly supported through the grants of the Estonian Science Foundation. The restoration of the Endowment remains the greatest achievement in stimulating book production in Estonia. The other measures of national book policy have been less clear and effective.

Background Cladribine, a selective immune reconstitution therapy, is approved for the treatment of adult patients with highly active multiple sclerosis (MS). Objectives Provide experience with cladribine therapy in a real-world setting. Methods This is a registry-based retrospective observational cohort study. First, using data from the Czech nationwide registry ReMuS, we analysed patients who initiated cladribine from September 1, 2018 to December 31, 2021. Second, we analysed a subgroup of patients who initiated cladribine between September 1, 2018 to June 30, 2020, thus possessing a follow-up period of at least 2 years. We evaluated demographic and MS characteristics including disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) before and after cladribine administration, relapses, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), and adherence. Results In total, 617 patients (335 with follow-up of at least 2 years) started cladribine therapy in the study period (mean age 37.0, mean disease duration 8.4 years, 74.1% females). In most cases, cladribine was administered as a second-line drug, a total of 80.7% had been escalated from a platform DMT. During 2 years before cladribine initiation, the average annualised relapse rate (ARR) was .67. Following cladribine initiation, the ARR decreased to .28 in the first year and .22 in the second year. Overall, across the entire two-year treatment period, 69.0% of patients were relapse-free and the average ARR was .25. As for EDSS development, the median baseline EDSS was 2.5 and remained stable even after 24 months. The adherence to treatment ranged of around 90%. Conclusion This nationwide study confirms the efficacy of cladribine in real-world settings, especially in patients who are not treatment-naïve. In addition, the study shows an exceptionally high adherence rate, a finding that underscores the invaluable role of cladribine, but also the value of registry-based studies in capturing real-world clinical practice.

Introduction. Congenital deformities of the outer ear are common; reported incidence are from 1:6000 to 1:6830 newborns. Multitude of corrective procedures are described in the literature. Purpose of the case study. The adequate surgical treatment of the congenital constricted ear remains a challenge. Selected tailor made approach should be employed on case by case basis, thus, in this study we present our case of moderate constricted ear and the used surgical procedures done under general anesthesia, as well as the outcome of the treatment. Case report. A 6 year old girl presented in pediatric and plastic surgery department with complaint of right ear deformity from birth and additional psychological effects such as increased difficulty in social integration and lack of self- confidence. On clinical examination, we considered as constricted ear grade IIB by Tanzel. Two separate procedures under general anesthesia were done. In the first procedure, advancement of the helix and otoplasty was performed; an effective expansion, of about 1 cm in the length of the pinna was obtained. In the second procedure, about 0.5 cm expansion of the helix was performed, and also the breadth of the pinna. Conclusion. In our case, combination of Mustardé suture, helix advancement and helix cartilage graft in moderate constricted ear were a useful surgical option, producing aesthetically good results in a simple and effective way.

The article traces changes in human cognitive and social development using the example of the only domesticated insect, the bee. From the 13th to the 20th century, forest bee-keeping spread, using live trees as beehives, and later also log hives on the ground. The ways of keeping bees changed fundamentally in the 19th century with the introduction of new types of hives, and they also consolidated beliefs in relation to bees. Bees had numerous special names, euphemisms were used when talking about them and in incantations, in which bees were called men/workers or other kinship terms were used, and they were also called domestic animals of the guardian fairies. The article presents beliefs about bees as soul animals and various mythical stories that were associated with the journey of the soul, as well as the popular belief about the connection between the death of the owner and the bees. While earlier on honey denoted an abundant and ideal life in the minds of people, the bee represented a hardworking, loyal person, and bees were the epitome of the motherland in texts expressing national identity. In the foreground is the search for balance between human and other beings, human and the environment, which is expressed, e.g., by the declaration of the rights of bees and the development trends of urban representation.

The article traces changes in human cognitive and social development using the example of the domesticated insect, the bee. From the 13th to the 20th century, forest bee-keeping spread, using live trees as beehives, and later also log hives on the ground. The ways of keeping bees changed fundamentally in the 19th century with the introduction of new types of hives, and they also consolidated beliefs in relation to bees. Bees had numerous special names, euphemisms were used when talking about them and in incantations, in which bees were called men/workers or other kinship terms were used, and they were also called domestic animals of the guardian fairies. The article presents beliefs about bees as soul animals and various legends that were associated with the journey of the soul, as well as the popular belief about the connection between the death of the owner and the bees. While earlier on honey denoted an abundant and ideal life in the minds of people, the bee represented a hardworking, loyal person, and bees were the epitome of the motherland in texts expressing national identity.

Stories of hidden treasure are different from other folkloric forms as in the Estonian folk tradition the motif of money is present in all genres. Monetary relations are discussed in proverbs and riddles. The problems of poverty and wealth are present in fairy tales. Opinions and dreams concerning money are verbalised in poetic forms in folk songs. People know and still practice various methods, partly based on traditional beliefs, that are known to bring good luck in money. The techniques of old magic meet modern recommendations of various kinds. In this article, the focus is on tradition relating to stories of hidden treasure. The legends and other stories (about 5,000 archive texts and recordings) are kept in the Estonian Folklore Archives and date back to the 19th and 20th centuries, although there are more recent materials. We can find three main fields in this tradition, depending on their connection with reality: 1) stories based in fact and on a real event, as evidenced by for example an archaeological find; 2) narratives that are part of local historical and toponymic traditions representing mental geography; 3) unlocalised stories that do not represent folk beliefs or legends and instead deal with more general questions such as what the real price of economic growth is, what consequences humans can face when luck smiles on them, what dangers – including supernatural sanctions – threaten people, and what consequences can be expected when they come into contact with treasures of unknown origin.

Background/Objectives: Mucin-1 (MUC1) is a transmembrane glycoprotein that is overexpressed and hypoglycosylated in premalignant and malignant epithelial cells compared to normal cells, creating a target antigen for humoral and cellular immunity. Healthy individuals with a history of advanced colonic adenomas and at high risk for colon cancer were enrolled in a clinical trial to evaluate the feasibility of using a MUC1 peptide vaccine to prevent colon cancer. Anti-MUC1 antibodies elicited by this vaccine were cloned using peripheral blood B cells and sera collected two weeks after a one-year booster. Twelve of these fully human monoclonal antibodies (mAb) were tested for binding to MUC1+ target cells, and three with the highest binding were further evaluated for various effector functions important for tumor rejection. Methods: Immune cells were incubated together with target cells expressing variations in the number, distance, and membrane anchoring properties of the MUC1 epitope in the presence of each mAb. Results: All three mAbs mediated antibody-dependent cytokine release (ADCR), antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), and antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP). Two also mediated antibody-dependent trogocytosis/trogoptosis (ADCT). None were capable of complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). Conclusions: ADCP and ADCT functions were more efficient when antibodies bound epitopes proximal to and anchored to the membrane, providing insight for future therapeutic antibody validation strategies.

Land degradation is a critical issue in Ethiopia, exacerbating food insecurity by reducing agricultural productivity. Soil and water conservation (SWC) practices are essential to control erosion and increase food production. However, there is a lack of comprehensive evaluations on the impact of Ethiopia’s Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP) on SWC practices. This study aimed to assess the contribution of the PSNP to SWC in the Amhara Sayint Woreda. The researchers used a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data. Multistage sampling was used to select households, and data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, and observations. The study provided empirical evidence that the PSNP has a positive impact on SWC practices. Key factors influencing SWC participation include age, family size, education, plot size, livestock ownership, credit service, and access to extension services. The results suggest that the PSNP should improve payment for public work participants implementing SWC, undertake institutional reform, and increase public awareness of the benefits of SWC in reversing land degradation and improving food security. This study uniquely contributes to the understanding of how the PSNP influences the varying degrees of participation in SWC practices, filling a critical research gap. The findings can inform policymakers and program managers to enhance the PSNP’s effectiveness in promoting sustainable land management and food security in Ethiopia.

"Reading fiction using gamified active learning methods in eighth grade Estonian as a second language classes". Acquiring a good level of Estonian as a second language is very important for the students at secondary school to successfully continue their studies and to smoothly integrate into the Estonian society. To encourage students’ desire to learn and increase the effectiveness of learning, activity, engagement, and affordability are very important during language classes (Kitsnik 2018b). Reading is one of four skills that is developed at second language classes. The aim of current action research was to develop more effective learning where gamified teaching methods were used. Based on the aim of the research, there were raised research question, whether more interesting and systematic reading classes can be used to make reading books in Estonian more pleasant for students with other mother tongues and to support the development of language skills. In the action research the previous reading classes were developed methodically of one of the study groups in grade 8 (n 15). 15 consciously structured reading classes were compiled based on Andrus Kivirähk’s book ”Tont ja Facebook” (”The Ghost and Facebook” 2019). The plan was made on the basis of gamified teaching methods (Kitsnik 2019a, 2019b; Razin & Kingisepp 2018; Kingisepp & Kärtner 2011 etc.). Gamification offers challenges, creates excitement, frees students from the rules and restrictions of everyday life, offers fun and energy (Kitsnik 2019a).

Abstract The Aira caldera, located in southern Kyushu, Japan, originally formed 100 ka, and its current shape reflects the more recent 30 ka caldera-forming eruptions (hereafter, called the AT eruptions). This study aimed to delineate the detailed two-dimensional (2D) seismic velocity structure of the Aira caldera down to approximately 15 km, by means of the travel-time tomography analysis of the seismic profile across the caldera acquired in 2017 and 2018. A substantial structural difference in thickness in the subsurface low-velocity areas in the Aira caldera between the eastern and western sides, suggest that the Aira caldera comprises at least two calderas, identified as the AT and Wakamiko calderas. The most interesting feature of the caldera structure is the existence of a substantial high-velocity zone (HVZ) with a velocity of more than 6.8 km/s at depths of about 6–11 km beneath the central area of the AT caldera. Because no high ratio of P- to S-wave velocity zones in the depth range were detected from the previous three-dimensional velocity model beneath the AT caldera region, we infer that the HVZ is not an active magma reservoir but comprises a solidified and cool remnant. In addition, a poorly resolved low-velocity zone around 15 km in depth suggests the existence of a deep active magma reservoir. By superimposing the distribution of the known pressure sources derived from the observed ground inflation and the volcanic earthquake distribution onto the 2D velocity model, the magma transportation path in the crust was imaged. This image suggested that the HVZ plays an important role in magma transportation in the upper crust. Moreover, we estimated that the AT magma reservoir in the 30 ka Aira caldera-forming eruptions has the total volume of 490 km3 DRE and is distributed in a depth range of 4–11 km. Graphical Abstract

The transition from land to sea affects the wind field in coastal regions. From the perspective of near-coastal offshore wind farms, the coastal transition complicates the task of energy resource assessment by, for example, introducing non-homogeneity into the free wind field. To help elucidate the matter, we quantify the average horizontal wind speed gradients at progressively increasing distances from the German coast using two years of hourly ERA5 reanalysis data, and further describe the dependence of wind speed gradients on the measurement height, atmospheric stability, and season. A vertical wind lidar located on Norderney Island near the German mainland acts as our observational reference for the ERA5 data, where a good agreement (R2=0.93$R^2 =\nobreak 0.93$) is found despite the relatively coarse ERA5 data resolution. Interestingly, the comparison of lidar data with the higher-resolution Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) mesoscale model yields good but relatively weaker agreement (R2=0.85$R^2 =\nobreak 0.85$). The ERA5 data reveal that, for flow over the North Sea originating from the German mainland from the south, the wind speed at 10 m (110 m) above sea level increases by 30 % (20 %) some 80 km from the coast on average, and by 5 % at larger heights. An increased stratification increases the horizontal wind speed gradient at 10 m above sea level but decreases it at 110 m. Case studies using satellite and flight measurements are first analyzed to help reveal some of the underlying mechanisms governing horizontal wind speed gradients, including cases of decreasing wind speed with increasing distance from the coast, in which stable flow of warm air over the colder sea leads to an overall deceleration of the flow. The accuracy of offshore resource assessment appears to profit from utilising the horizontal wind speed gradient information contained in ERA5 reanalysis data.

Background: COVID-19 is primarily known as a respiratory illness; however, many patients present to hospital without respiratory symptoms. The association between non-respiratory presentations of COVID-19 and outcomes remains unclear. We investigated risk factors and clinical outcomes in patients with no respiratory symptoms (NRS) and respiratory symptoms (RS) at hospital admission. Methods: This study describes clinical features, physiological parameters, and outcomes of hospitalised COVID-19 patients, stratified by the presence or absence of respiratory symptoms at hospital admission. RS patients had one or more of: cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, runny nose or wheezing; while NRS patients did not. Results: Of 178,640 patients in the study, 86.4 % presented with RS, while 13.6 % had NRS. NRS patients were older (median age: NRS: 74 vs RS: 65) and less likely to be admitted to the ICU (NRS: 36.7 % vs RS: 37.5 %). NRS patients had a higher crude in-hospital case-fatality ratio (NRS 41.1 % vs. RS 32.0 %), but a lower risk of death after adjusting for confounders (HR 0.88 [0.83–0.93]). Conclusion: Approximately one in seven COVID-19 patients presented at hospital admission without respiratory symptoms. These patients were older, had lower ICU admission rates, and had a lower risk of in-hospital mortality after adjusting for confounders.

Key Clinical Message Treatment of congenital chyloperitoneum is a challenge. Conservative methods may be ineffective. Preoperative visualization of the site of lymphatic leakage is crucial, but radiological imaging is technically complicated and may not provide sufficient information, especially in small patients. To ease the detection of lymphatic leakage during surgery, preoperative feeding with fat‐rich formula with Sudan Black has been recommended. However, administration of Sudan Black may result in life‐threatening methemoglobinemia and liver damage without any advantage of revealing leakage during surgery. We recommend preoperative feeding with pure fat‐rich formula.

About 14% of children have asthma, and despite effective treatments, the outcome is not always as expected, with hospitalisation rates remaining high. Parents of children with asthma experience stress as they doubt their ability to cope with the difficult circumstances. Parents complain that they do not have sufficient information on the reduction of factors associated with disease exacerbation. They need knowledge of how to effectively participate in coping with the disease. The aim of the research is to describe the experiences and needs of parents of children with asthma in coping with the childâs disease. The design of the research is qualitative and descriptive. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed by an inductive content analysis method. The interviews were conducted in the autumn of 2021. The subjects were found with the help of the Tallinn Childrenâs Hospital staff. Eight subjects participated in the research. The results of the study showed that the parentsâ experiences in coping with the childâs disease consisted of health-related experiences, life management and material challenges, experiences with relationships, and various support systems. The needs of parents in dealing with the childâs disease included the need for various services, the need for information, the need to support the child, and health needs of both the parents and the child. Parents experienced socio-economic difficulties and incomplete information when coping with the childâs disease. For this reason, families should receive support from various specialists and organisations, and the role of nurses is to be a connecting link between families and support services.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed tumor in women in the world. Early detection and treatment of breast cancer has an impact on life expectancy, reduced mortality and improved quality of life. The reduction in mortality depends largely on interventions. The objective of this study was to describe the reasons for not participating in breast cancer screening, ways to obtain information and measures to improve participation in screening. The survey was conducted among 1200 women aged 50â69 in Estonia. Statistical data analysis was performed with SPSS 26.0, using descriptive statistics. For comparison of the results with background data, the MannâWhitney U test and the chi-square test were used. The main reason for not participating in breast cancer screening was the absence of symptoms. Information on breast cancer and breast cancer screening is mostly obtained from friends and acquaintances, and the least from the mobile application on breast cancer screening. The most desirable sources of information about breast cancer are information leaflets and the family doctor, and the internet is the least searched for information. Convenient access to a mammography examination and the family doctorâs initiative provide support, while the information in womenâs magazines and social media has low importance for participation. The information channels used were related to age, native language and level of education. Place of residence did not affect access to information. The results show that women seek information primarily from friends and acquaintances, although they are also open to seek information from leaflets or the family doctor, indicating the need for more emphasis on those sources. Different sociodemographic variables should be considered in related communication.

Person-centredness is claimed to be one of the aims of healthcare, placing the person at the centre of healthcare (services). However, individual responsibility is expected and stressed in the implementation with limited structural support. This has led to the situation where despite the availability of HPV vaccination as the most beneficial preventive method, the coverage for girls aged 12â14 is below the recommended (>70%) rate. The objective of the research was to analyse structural constraints experienced by parents and service providers of the target group of girls regarding HPV vaccination under the circumstances of a global pandemic. Qualitative methods were used, namely in-depth interviews (n = 18) with nurses and midwives and three focus group interviews (n = 13) with parents of girls aged 12â14 years, as well as thematic textual analysis with the combination of inductive and deductive analysis methods. The research was granted ethical permission. The results outline that for parents the main challenge is the ability to find relevant supportive information for decision-making. For nurses, the challenge is to find appropriate ways to counsel and support parents and girls. The study revealed the lack of a country-wide strategy as one of the weak links in supporting the continuation of necessary preventive activities despite the external situation. Also, the skills of counselling and development of innovative communicative and educational digital tools that are target group specific yet also country- and culture-specific should be improved, as this may lead to more person-centred healthcare service for cervical cancer prevention.

The most common rheumatological disease in children is juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). At the beginning of the disease, the predominant emotions of the parents are growing anxiety, fear, confusion and denial of the disease. In Estonia, parents of children suffering from JIA do not receive enough support and information about their childâs health problem or social benefits and services. The aim of the thesis is to describe the experiences and needs of parents of children with JIA in coping with the childâs disease. The design of the research is qualitative and descriptive. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and ana­lysed by the inductive content analysis method. The interviews were carried out in 2021 with eight subjects participating in the research. The authors of this research found that the parentsâ experiences in coping with the childâs disease consisted of adaptation to the disease, feelings of the parents regarding their childâs situation, family relations, nature of the disease and various support mechanisms. At the beginning of the disease, fear and anxiety were experienced. The needs of parents were related to supporting the childâs coping with the disease, the treatment process and school requirements. In order to do that, parents sought psychological help. Regarding the treatment process, the parentsâ desire to cooperate with healthcare workers grew as the disease exacerbated. More understanding was needed from teachers regarding the obstacles and limitations due to the childâs disabilities. In conclusion, when adapting to the childâs disease, parents experienced both positive and negative feelings as well as a lack of information. Families should feel supported by healthcare professionals, local municipality and educational institutions.

A new type of shell damage has been described in Ordovician brachiopods in Porambonites (Porambonites) laticaudata. There is a pair of small pits with somewhat different outline in the shell surface at the anterior commissure of the brachiopod. These pits are oriented in lateral direction, about 40o from the direction of the sulcus on the anterior commissure. Previously known shell damage has resulted from failed predatory attacks by durophagous predators and differ from the shell damage in P. (P.) laticaudata. The pits in the shell margin are most likely the result of shell malformation caused by the presence of symbionts. It is plausible that the symbionts of the P. (P.) laticaudata benefitted from inhalant currents and were cleptoparasites. The symbionts caused damage to the host brachiopod, which also suggests a parasitic relationship.

Policies regulating common-pool resources (CPR), such as wetlands, should take into account community socio-economic realities and community perceptions. The study aims to examine whether policies regulating common-pool resources, such as wetlands, should take into account community socio-economic realities and community perceptions. Specifically, it characterized Ethiopian farm households in the Amhara Region and household-head perceptions of six factors related to sustainable wetland management. Surveys were given to 385 respondents from five administrative units or kebeles (kebele is the smallest administrative unit). Focus-group discussions followed. All respondents were Orthodox Christians, and men constituted 93% of household heads. Kebeles differed significantly for household-head age and education, but overall education level was low. Most households had three or four children. Overall, the mean farm area was 0.89 ha, but within kebeles, mean areas ranged from 1.35 to 0.80 ha. Kidest Hana was the most successful kebele for farm size and yield. Significant differences existed among kebele farms for percentages of harvested crops sold, suggesting some were less food-secure. Data suggested male household-head farms had twice the area of female-head farms, older household heads had more land than younger ones, heads with more education had more children, and married heads had more land than divorced or unmarried heads. None felt that people outside their kebele should access their natural resources. Overall, 85% thought land ownership was communal, and 15% thought it was private. A plurality (44%) did not know who oversaw land management. None knew of any organizations working on sustainable wetland management, but most (75%) wanted to attend meetings on the subject. No farm used mechanized agriculture. Most (87%) had not abandoned alternative crops to produce more rice. Therefore, as a conclusion, every effort needs to be taken to address this socio-ecological and development challenge that faces Fogera wetlands and larger national and international impacts to achieve balanced and sustainable development. Hence, our study highlights the need for better education, leadership, and policies regarding sustainable wetland management.

In discussions about citizen science (CS), scholars have considered CS as not only a tool to produce better science, but also a democratizing practice allowing for new definitions of public problems. Inspired by science and technology studies, we present an analysis of a CS collaboration on public health—University with the Neighborhood—in low-income neighborhoods. We show how this CS project results in three representations of neighborhood health. 1. Health is not defined in terms of individual lifestyle but rather in terms of public space. 2. Citizens’ work is not participation, but maintenance and repair. 3. Neighborhood work is not about “the community” but about diverse publics. We conclude that the democratic potential of CS in public health and health promotion lies not in the mirroring-of-reality capability of citizens but in the transformation of objects of concern and the representation of problems in public health.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an important treatment modality in psychiatry, considered to be the most effective option for pharmaco-resistant affective and psychotic disorders. Despite its great efficacy, it still remains a rather controversial method, which hinders its full potential. It is feasible to say that in part, this controversy is caused by a largely negative image of ECT displayed through media. The depiction of ECT in movies has been studied and well documented in the past. The aim of our study was to provide an overview of how ECT is represented in video games - a form of media where ECT representation has been overlooked in scientific literature so far. As with movies, most of these portrayals are negative, depicting ECT as an obsolete, aggressive or torturous treatment method.