Search

This study investigates how individual predispositions toward Virtual Reality (VR) affect user experiences in collaborative VR environments, particularly in workplace settings. By adapting the Video Game Pursuit Scale to measure VR predisposition, we aim to establish the reliability and validity of this adapted measure in assessing how personal characteristics influence engagement and interaction in VR. Two studies, the first correlational and the second quasi-experimental, were conducted to examine the impact of environmental features, specifically the differences between static and mobile VR platforms, on participants’ perceptions of time, presence, and task motivation. The findings indicate that individual differences in VR predisposition significantly influence user experiences in virtual environments with important implications for enhancing VR applications in training and team collaboration. This research contributes to the understanding of human–computer interaction in VR and offers valuable insights for organizations aiming to implement VR technologies effectively. The results highlight the importance of considering psychological factors in the design and deployment of VR systems, paving the way for future research in this rapidly evolving field.

Objective: Language brokering (LB) is an act of interpreting and translating that immigrants often engage in to help their family members who may not be fluent in the English language. The study examined whether adhering to Asian American values (i.e., values enculturation) could moderate the association between LB and internalizing symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety) among Asian American college students. Participants & Methods: An online survey was administered to a sample of 159 Asian American college students who had engaged in LB. Results: Results from the moderation analysis indicated that Asian American values enculturation significantly buffered against the adverse effects of high LB frequency on internalizing symptoms after controlling for gender and generation status. Conclusions: The current study offered insights into the toll that LB could take on Asian American college students' mental health as well as the potential protective roles of values enculturation.

The development of reduced models provide efficient methods that can be used to perform short term experimental data analysis or narrow down the parametric range of more sophisticated numerical approaches. Reduced models are derived by simplifying the physics description with the goal of retaining only the essential ingredients required to reproduce the phenomena under study. This is the role of the gyro-fluid code FAR3d, dedicated to analyze the linear and nonlinear stability of Alfvén Eigenmodes (AE), Energetic Particle Modes (EPM) and magnetic-hydrodynamic modes as pressure gradient driven mode (PGDM) and current driven modes (CDM) in nuclear fusion devices. Such analysis is valuable for improving the plasma heating efficiency and confinement; this can enhance the overall device performance. The present review is dedicated to a description of the most important contributions of the FAR3d code in the field of energetic particles (EP) and AE/EPM stability. FAR3d is used to model and characterize the AE/EPM activity measured in fusion devices as LHD, JET, DIII-D, EAST, TJ-II and Heliotron J. In addition, the computational efficiency of FAR3d facilitates performing massive parametric studies leading to the identification of optimization trends with respect to the AE/EPM stability. This can aid in identifying operational regimes where AE/EPM activity is avoided or minimized. This technique is applied to the analysis of optimized configurations with respect to the thermal plasma parameters, magnetic field configuration, external actuators and the effect of multiple EP populations. In addition, the AE/EPM saturation phase is analyzed, taking into account both steady-state phases and bursting activity observed in LHD and DIII-D devices. The nonlinear calculations provide: the induced EP transport, the generation of zonal structures as well as the energy transfer towards the thermal plasma and between different toroidal/helical families. Finally, FAR3d is used to forecast the AE/EPM stability in operational scenarios of future devices as ITER, CFETR, JT60SA and CFQS as well as possible approaches to optimization with respect to variations in the most important plasma parameters.

Declines in freshwater quality resulting from anthropogenic nutrient input remain a persistent issue worldwide. Yet, we still have a limited understanding of the magnitude and scale at which most lakes have been affected by human activities, namely Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) alterations. In response, the NSERC Canadian Lake Pulse Network has compiled the first nationwide systematic database of lake quality metrics by surveying 664 lakes across 12 ecozones over 3 years. To assess the influence of catchment development on water quality and its spatial variation, we built generally additive models and multivariate regressions to quantify the association between watershed LULC and lake temperature, Secchi depth, as well as chlorophyll-a, limiting nutrient, and ion concentrations. We found that agricultural and urban land use explained the greatest proportion of variation in water quality among LULC categories ([R.sup.2] = 0.20-0.29). Overall, our study highlights that drivers of water quality are similar across regions; however, baseline conditions vary, so freshwater ecosystem management strategies must consider their geographic context to better predict where water quality thresholds will be surpassed. Key words: agriculture, eutrophication, lake, multivariate regression tree, water quality, Introduction Despite decades of research into the drivers of lake water quality and evolving land management strategies, cultural eutrophication remains one of the leading threats to freshwater ecosystems across the [...]

Novel trophic associations have sometimes resulted in fortuitous and significant biological control. After the invasion of North America by the South American cactus moth, Cactoblastis cactorum (Berg) (Pyralidae: Phycitinae), it is pertinent to characterize the assemblage of local natural enemies that could utilize this moth in new host-parasitoid associations. Herein we report on Apanteles mimoristae Muesebeck (Braconidae: Microgastrinae), a North American gregarious endoparasitoid wasp attacking the caterpillar of the phycitine cactus moth Melitara cf. nephelepasa (Dyar) (Pyralidae: Phycitinae, also known as zebra worm), also native to North America; both collected in Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. (Cactaceae) cultivated fields at rural areas of Mexico City. We provide an updated morphological account for A. mimoristae visualized with light microscopy and scanning electron microscope (SEM); a fragment of its cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequence data is reported for the first time. Additionally, we analyze its taxonomical position relative to other Apanteles species from the Americas including those attacking cactus-feeding moths. Our analyses place A. mimoristae (from Mexico) in a clade with A. esthercentenoae Fernández-Triana (from Costa Rica), a parasitoid of both Cromarcha stroudagnesia Solis (Pyralidae) and Palpita venatalis (Schaus) (Crambidae) (non cactus-feeding), and in a sister clade to A. opuntiarum Martínez & Berta (from Argentina) and A. alexanderi Brèthes (from Argentina and Uruguay), parasitoids of the cactus-feeding phycitines Cactoblastis and Tucumania respectively. Finally, we provide an updated key for the identification of Apanteles species recorded parasitizing cactus moth caterpillars in the American continent.

We report the second world observation of the bizarre nematode-parasitic fungus-like organism, Spirogyromyces vermicola, from forest soil at Saltillo, Mexico. It is a benign parasite of nematodes that fills their intestine. Its phylogenetic position remains a mystery, but its morphology and development are reminiscent of Harpellales and Orphellales in the Kickxellomycotina. Spirogyromyces was cultivated in vivo in the original host (Rhabditis) and in Caenorhabditis elegans. Spirogyromyces proliferated in both hosts, and it did not appear to affect significantly health, reproduction, or numbers of hosts. The rediscovery of Spirogyromyces will highlight its potential in the study of parasitic systems in nematodes, including Caenorhabditis research.

Optimal veterinary care of managed elephant populations is vital due to the continued decline of wild populations. Appropriate health monitoring and accurate disease diagnosis include hematologic evaluation. Elephant hematology is distinctive in that elephants have high percentages of monocytes in health. Elephant monocytes also have unusual morphology, a feature shared with manatees and rock hyraxes. Manual white blood cell counting is used for elephant hematology, as analyzers are generally inaccurate. The aims of this study were to evaluate basic cell isolation and functional testing protocols for use in elephant monocyte research, and to test several available antibodies via flow cytometry for use in elephant monocyte identification. Peripheral blood samples from five Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) were used. Methods for monocyte isolation and evaluation of phagocytic function were established. Putative lymphocyte and monocyte populations were identified using a scatter on flow cytometry. Antibodies against CD11b, CD11c, CD14, and ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (IBA1) were tested, with IBA1 showing the highest apparent diagnostic utility in labeling monocytes. Combined flow cytometric scatter and IBA1 positivity appear to identify Asian elephant monocytes. These data provide a methodologic basis for further investigation into elephant monocyte function and immune response to infection.

Ref.: Can. J. Fish. Aquat. Sci. 00:1-13(2023) | dx.doi.org/10.11 39/cjfas-2023-0109. In Fig. 4 of the originally published article, the units for the bottom row of graphs were listed in [micro]g/L, [...]

Introduction The expression of sexuality in the adult with mental disorders depends on the early incorporation of factors for promoting social inclusion. It is fundamental that sexual educators and advisors, in addition to working with the clients, also work with close family members. Intervention programs should establish objectives for developing a positive attitude towards sexuality in people with mental disorders and improving self-esteem (Katz G,Salud Publica Mex. 2008;50 Suppl 2:s239-54). Challenge Achieving support for people with mental health problems and/or substance use disorder admitted to the Social Rehabilitation Process of a psychiatric hospital so that they develop their sexuality satisfactorily. The right to privacy must be taken into account. Objectives Promoting a healthy and satisfactory development of sexuality in people with severe mental disorders. Raising awareness among healthcare teams, families and legal representatives regarding the need and suitability for support. Introducing the concept of sexuality as a dignifying perspective. Promoting sexual education that avoids disadvantages and situations of abuse in the target group. Coordinating the continuity of the project with non-health social services after discharge. Hypothesis Possibility of receiving support in the development of sexuality through training, information and improvement in the management of emotions/feelings in people who express the need or willingness to receive it, will contribute to overcoming limitations or difficulties. Methods Detecting people who during 2021 wish to work on the objectives through the care team. Searching for community resources aimed at attending sexuality issues in people with mental health problems. Proposing the hospital a collaboration with a non-profit entity that develops a specialized program for attention to sexuality in disability. Coordination between Treatment team and Entity. Quantitative and qualitative assessment of one year of experience according to the parameters of the entity. Results 2022 People included Percentage of people admittedto the Income Unit (65) Detection concern sex-affectivity 5 7,69% Verbalized concern 3 4,61% Referral to the entity program 2 3,07% Conclusions All patients included have a diagnosis of psychosis. Experience was very positive for the participants. Community intervention projects that lead to an education in healthy and respectful relationships in the field of sexuality and affectivity are necessary. This would allow to prevent behaviours and situations at risk of abuse as well as social and emotional instability. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Hospital at home for psychiatric patients is a new emerging resource of delivering acute mental health care in the community. The main objective of this program is to provide intense care to patients with severe mental disorders at home as an alternative to acute admission. Although home hospitalisation has begun to develop widely in recent years there is a notable lack of studies The CAEM Psychiatric Home Hospitalization Unit (HAD-CAEM) has been operating since 2018 and takes place in Santa Coloma de Gramenet; and from March 2022 also in a part of Badalona. Both are sociodemographically depressed areas near Barcelona. Objectives The aim of this study is to describe the characteristics of patients attended at the Psychiatric Home Hospitalization Unit of our hospital and to study differences according to area and place of referral. Methods Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected retrospectively at admission and discharge of all patients treated at HAD-CAEM between March 2022 to february 2023. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS program. Results 85 patients were included in the study. 45.9% were women. The mean age was 45.5 years (SD 15.58 years). The main diagnoses of the sample were psychosis and schizophrenia (38.8%), Bipolar disorder (23.53%), Depressive disorder (21.18%), schizoaffective disorder (8.24%) and others (8,24%). 54 (63.53%) patients were from Santa Coloma area and 35 (41.18%) from Badalona area. The total mean duration of admission was 40.22 days (SD 26.18 days), with a mean follow-up of 10.09 visits (SD 5.39 visits) and 2.41 teleassistence (SD 2.62). The mean duration of admission for Santa Coloma patients was 43.98 days (SD 28.59), and for Badalona patients 33.68 days (SD 20.13). Trend without significance is observed (t= 1.77, p=0.08) We found differences in the mean duration of admission according to referral location. Acute psychiatric unit 33.25 days (SD 18.06), Mental health Center 51.93 days (SD 33.45), Emergencies 34.28 days (SD 19.69) (F=5.1, p=0.008). Conclusions Sociodemografic and clinical característics obtained in our study are consistent with those reported in previous studies. The duration of admission of patients referred from the mental health center is longer than those referred from the acute psychiatric or emergency unit. Home hospitalization teams have been increasing in recent years, being an alternative to traditional hospitalization. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Laboratory safety has received heightened attention due to a series of devastatingly tragic accidents in both academic and nonacademic settings. Consequently, chemistry departments at various academic institutions now offer some form of formal training in laboratory safety for entering graduate students. Although the extent of this training varies widely among institutions, it typically includes an online assessment and/or minimal in-person classroom instruction. However, a significant gap exists between a lecture hall setting and the complex environment that comprises an advanced research laboratory. We've adapted the technological advances in virtual and augmented reality to bridge this gap. A set of 360° virtual reality lab experiences, highlighting safety infractions, have been created for a variety of subdiscipline-distinct (medicinal, organic, inorganic, physical, drug screening) laboratory settings. Notable features include the accurate depiction of the visual complexity associated with research settings, the opportunity for the trainee to explore multiple laboratories in a self-paced fashion, and immediate feedback with respect to the identification of safety hazards. The VR Lab Safety modules were very well received by first year graduate students, with greater than 85% of the respondents describing the VR experience as engaging and memorable, as a good supplement to safety reading material, and as providing real world examples that are otherwise difficult to visualize.

Urban street trees offer cities critical environmental and social benefits. In New York City (NYC), a decadal census of every street tree is conducted to help understand and manage the urban forest. However, it has previously been impossible to analyze growth of an individual tree because of uncertainty in tree location. This study overcomes this limitation using a three-step alignment process for identifying individual trees with ZIP Codes, address, and species instead of map coordinates. We estimated individual growth rates for 126,362 street trees (59 species and 19% of 2015 trees) using the difference between diameter at breast height (DBH) from the 2005 and 2015 tree censuses. The tree identification method was verified by locating and measuring the DBH of select trees and measuring a set of trees annually for over 5 years. We examined determinants of tree growth rates and explored their spatial distribution. In our newly created NYC tree growth database, fourteen species have over 1000 unique trees. The three most abundant tree species vary in growth rates; London Planetree (n = 32,056, 0.163 in/yr) grew the slowest compared to Honeylocust (n = 15,967, 0.356 in/yr), and Callery Pear (n = 15,902, 0.334 in/yr). Overall, Silver Linden was the fastest growing species (n = 1,149, 0.510 in/yr). Ordinary least squares regression that incorporated biological factors including size and the local urban form indicated that species was the major factor controlling growth rates, and tree stewardship had only a small effect. Furthermore, tree measurements by volunteer community scientists were as accurate as those made by NYC staff. Examining city wide patterns of tree growth indicates that areas with a higher Social Vulnerability Index have higher than expected growth rates. Continued efforts in street tree planting should utilize known growth rates while incorporating community voices to better provide long-term ecosystem services across NYC.

For the long term control of an infectious disease such as COVID-19, it is crucial to identify the most likely individuals to become infected and the role that differences in demographic characteristics play in the observed patterns of infection. As high-volume surveillance winds down, testing data from earlier periods are invaluable for studying risk factors for infection in detail. Observed changes in time during these periods may then inform how stable the pattern will be in the long term. To this end we analyse the distribution of cases of COVID-19 across Scotland in 2021, where the location (census areas of order 500-1,000 residents) and reporting date of cases are known. We consider over 450,000 individually recorded cases, in two infection waves triggered by different lineages: B.1.1.529 ("Omicron") and B.1.617.2 ("Delta"). We use random forests, informed by measures of geography, demography, testing and vaccination. We show that the distributions are only adequately explained when considering multiple explanatory variables, implying that case heterogeneity arose from a combination of individual behaviour, immunity, and testing frequency. Despite differences in virus lineage, time of year, and interventions in place, we find the risk factors remained broadly consistent between the two waves. Many of the observed smaller differences could be reasonably explained by changes in control measures.

Abstract Background Low-dose spiral computed tomography (LDCT) may not lead to a clear treatment path when small to intermediate-sized lung nodules are identified. We have combined flow cytometry and machine learning to develop a sputum-based test (CyPath Lung) that can assist physicians in decision-making in such cases. Methods Single cell suspensions prepared from induced sputum samples collected over three consecutive days were labeled with a viability dye to exclude dead cells, antibodies to distinguish cell types, and a porphyrin to label cancer-associated cells. The labeled cell suspension was run on a flow cytometer and the data collected. An analysis pipeline combining automated flow cytometry data processing with machine learning was developed to distinguish cancer from non-cancer samples from 150 patients at high risk of whom 28 had lung cancer. Flow data and patient features were evaluated to identify predictors of lung cancer. Random training and test sets were chosen to evaluate predictive variables iteratively until a robust model was identified. The final model was tested on a second, independent group of 32 samples, including six samples from patients diagnosed with lung cancer. Results Automated analysis combined with machine learning resulted in a predictive model that achieved an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.89 (95% CI 0.83–0.89). The sensitivity and specificity were 82% and 88%, respectively, and the negative and positive predictive values 96% and 61%, respectively. Importantly, the test was 92% sensitive and 87% specific in cases when nodules were

We examine predictors of COVID-19 cases in Native nations during the early months of the pandemic. We find that where Native American representation and Native American political power in state politics were greater, COVID-19 cases on tribal lands were fewer. We expand the literatures on descriptive representation and on tribal-state relations by demonstrating consequences of powerful Native American voices in the statehouse. We find that Native American voices on tribal lands are also vital. Tribal lands that had extensive networks of community-based health facilities and tribally controlled health facilities recorded fewer COVID-19 cases. The broader lesson here is that if Native nations are to protect their citizens, they need outside governments that support, not thwart. Our findings draw on unique, original quantitative analysis.

BackgroundImproving the quality of care for a diverse population requires a diverse healthcare workforce which necessitates high educational attainment among underrepresented communities. Programs aimed to address healthcare workforce diversity gaps also serve as a public health intervention by offering avenues to improve the health of local communities by providing students with the knowledge and skills to promote healthy behaviors, foster scientific literacy, and inspire future public health professionals - who in turn serve their local communities to advance health outcomes. We interviewed alumni of the New York Presbyterian Hospital Lang Youth Medical Program (LYMP), a high school health sciences mentoring and enrichment program for underrepresented minority youth in Upper Manhattan, from graduating classes between 2012 and 2021 to explore their perspectives on what aspects of the program had the most impact on their academic and career paths.MethodThis is a qualitative study using in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews. All interviews were analyzed using the constant comparative method for developing grounded theory, following a convenience sampling method.Results106 codes were organized into 24 themes, which were further arranged into 4 topic areas: demonstrated program success, intangible program drivers, improvement opportunities, and barriers to program participation. Topic areas captured participants’ perspectives on how the program is designed to foster an environment of personal, academic, and professional development; ways aspects of the program organically worked together to provide unanticipated positive facilitators; opportunities for program improvements, and external factors that influenced decision-making.ConclusionThrough this study, we found that the LYMP had a positive influence in helping participants set and achieve personal, academic, and professional goals. Alumni reported activities and experiences offered by the program that foster key youth development constructs linked to healthier and more resilient communities. Importantly, the vast majority of participants described how the synergism between program features, staff support, family involvement, and professional development and networking created an environment of achievement that went beyond the scope of the program design. Findings from this study offer a blueprint for other organizations to craft a similarly successful enrichment program that improves health outcomes, reduces health disparities, and promotes overall population health.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating phytochemical from Cannabis sativa that is increasingly used to manage pain. The potential for CBD to ameliorate dimensional behavior symptoms occurring in multiple psychiatric disorders was suggested, including social interaction impairments. To test this hypothesis, adult male BTBRT+Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice, a model of idiopathic autism exhibiting social preference deficits and restrictive repetitive behaviors, were acutely treated with vehicle or 0.1, 1, or 10 mg/kg CBD. Social interaction preference was assessed 50 min after treatment, followed by social novelty preference at 60 min, marble burying at 75 min and social dominance at 120 min. CBD (10 mg/kg) enhanced BTBR social interaction but not social novelty preference, marble burying or dominance, with serum levels = 29 ± 11 ng/mg at 3 h post-injection. Next, acute 10 mg/kg CBD was compared to vehicle treatment in male serotonin transporter (SERT) knock-out mice, since SERT deficiency is an autism risk factor, and in their wildtype background strain controls C57BL/6J mice. CBD treatment generally enhanced social interaction preference and attenuated social novelty preference, yet neither marble burying nor dominance was affected. These findings show acute treatment with as little as 10 mg/kg purified CBD can enhance social interaction preference in male mice that are otherwise socially deficient.

The most relevant features of FLIPEC (Free fLow Iterative Plasma Equilibrium Code) are presented. This new code iteratively calculates free-boundary, axisymmetric ideal MHD equilibria with arbitrary poloidal and toroidal plasma flows. FLIPEC is a mature code that has emerged from a complete overhaul of a previous version (F-Torija Daza 2022 et al Nucl. Fusion 62 126044). It uses a (inverse) curvilinear coordinate representation for the Grad–Shafranov–Bernoulli equation system, which allows FLIPEC to extend its free-boundary capabilities to arbitrary plasma shapes and removes many limitations with regards to the distance between plasma and external coils. Run-time stabilization of vertical modes has also been implemented by means of artificial feedback coils. Finally, active targeting schemes have also been included. These capabilities are illustrated on two very different cases: the ITER tokamak baseline configuration and a NSTX spherical tokamak equilibrium.

The relationship between workplace communication and affective outcomes, specifically connectedness at work and affective organizational commitment, is one that warrants further investigation for practical usage in the increasingly multimodal workplace. This study considers the frequency of use across five communication modalities, that being face-to-face, email, phone calls, instant messaging, and video calls, in relation to affective outcomes, as well as their relationships with communication meaningfulness. Employed participants (n = 516) completed an online survey in which they self-reported weekly communication tendencies, experienced connectedness, and affective organizational commitment. The final sample consisted of participants across 20 different industries in the United States. The most respondents worked in Health Care and Social Assistance or Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (15% each), followed closely by respondents from Educational Services or Finance and Insurance (13% each). Data collection took place in between October 2021 and January 2022. Generally, participants who reported more frequent communication at work reported higher levels of connectedness and higher affective organizational commitment. Employees who found their communication more meaningful (irrespective of frequency) felt the most emotionally connected. Unique benefits of different communication modalities, as well as implications for hybrid and remote organizations, are discussed.

Video vignettes are one form of virtualized vignettes that may build upon traditional text vignettes and enable research participants to see and experience a unique scenario that is better translated visually than through a written text. This study examined using video vignettes to study perceptions of leaders. Participants watched virtualized, video vignettes depicting a male leader expressing either a masculine, gender-conforming expression or a feminine, gender-nonconforming expression. Participants evaluated these leaders on measures of leadership likability and leadership effectiveness. Results demonstrated that the videos of the masculine male leader were perceived as more likable and more effective than the videos of the feminine male leader. This relationship was not moderated by gender-related expectations the participants had. This finding reveals that there is a prototypical expectation that male leaders who depicted masculine expressions are more likable and effective. Additionally, we also found that the participant’s individual ideologies of gender-related expectations and conformity expectations were related to the results in unique ways. When the participant believed an ideal leader should have higher versus lower feminine traits, those participants also rated both leaders more positively regardless of the type of gender expression that was depicted in the video vignettes. In contrast, participants with strong expectations that others should conform to gender norms in social situations generally rated both leaders more negatively, regardless of the gender expression in the video vignette. The results are discussed in detail and the benefits of using virtualized and video vignettes are discussed.

Abstract Background Grafting is a technique widely used in horticulture that also has been applied in agriculture. In plant physiology, grafting facilitates the elucidation of mechanisms underlying growth and developmental processes, through the construction of chimeric plants with organs of different genotypes. Despite its small size, the model species Arabidopsis thaliana is very amenable for grafting, which can be useful to investigate transport of nutrients, amino acids or secondary metabolites between different tissues, or to investigate developmental processes depending on root-to-shoot communication, such as shoot branching, root and shoot plasticity upon shade avoidance, or disease resistance. Nevertheless, grafting protocols are usually technically challenging and training is required to achieve a reasonable success rate. Additionally, specialized tools and equipment are often needed, such as chips to accommodate the grafted plantlets or collars to maintain the contact between root and shoot. Results In this methodology paper, we provide a fast, easy, accessible, and specialized equipment-free protocol that enables high success ratios. Critical steps and notes are detailed, easing the implementation of the procedure for non-trained researchers. An example of the protocol application by three independent non-trained researchers shows that this method allows to achieve a 90–100% of grafting efficiency after 6 days post-grafting recovery. In addition, the grafting of Col-0 with the acs8x mutant, depleted in 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), the biosynthetic precursor of the phytohormone ethylene, provides an example of the application of this optimized protocol, showing the suitability of the process to study long-distance transport processes. Conclusions We present an optimized protocol for hypocotyl grafting of 4-day-old Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings. The combination of conditions yields a grafting success of 90–100% and provides an easy and accessible methodology, reducing the time frame, and without the necessity of acquiring specialized equipment. The presented protocol is simple, fast and highly efficient, easing the inclusion of hypocotyl grafting assays in any research project. In addition, the description of the protocol is detailed to a level ensuring that even non-trained researchers, are sufficiently prepared to adopt the grafting methodology.

Test anxiety may be a contributing factor to low-performing examination scores among students. There can be numerous physiological responses in the body that lead to test anxiety. One is the body’s response to stress, which activates the brain to release hormones that stimulate central and peripheral nervous responses. The hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis is a known responder during stress, causing an elevation of cortisol in the blood, a glucocorticoid (GC) hormone that affects sympathetic nervous responses. Stressors during testing include the method of information delivered, prior knowledge of the subject material, emotional state, or how accurately the student can retain knowledge. A student’s emotional state of mind is essential and may cause hyperactivation of the HPA axis during stress encountered during testing, exacerbating cortisol levels and nervous responsiveness. This review discusses the potential involvement of the HPA stress axis on an individual’s performance during testing and assessment.

Toxoplasma gondii establishes a long-lived latent infection in the central nervous system (CNS) of its hosts. Reactivation in immunocompromised individuals can lead to life threatening disease. Latent infection is driven by the ability of the parasite to convert from the acute-stage tachyzoite to the latent-stage bradyzoite which resides in long-lived intracellular cysts. While much work has focused on the parasitic factors that drive cyst development, the host factors that influence encystment are not well defined. Here we show that a polymorphic secreted parasite kinase (ROP16), that phosphorylates host cell proteins, mediates efficient encystment of T. gondii in a stress-induced model of encystment and primary neuronal cell cultures (PNCs) in a strain-specific manner. Using short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) knockdowns in human foreskin fibroblasts (HFFs) and PNCs from transgenic mice, we determined that ROP16's cyst enhancing abilities are mediated, in part, by phosphorylation-and therefore activation-of the host cell transcription factor STAT6. To test the role of STAT6 in vivo, we infected wild-type (WT) and STAT6KO mice, finding that, compared to WT mice, STAT6KO mice have a decrease in CNS cyst burden but not overall parasite burden or dissemination to the CNS. Finally, we found a similar ROP16-dependent encystment defect in human pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons. Together, these findings identify a host cell factor (STAT6) that T. gondii manipulates in a strain-specific manner to generate a favorable encystment environment.

Introduction Severe mental illnesses characterized by periods of relapse that require intensive resource management. Caregivers of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder patients feel a considerable burden of care (Tanna et al. Ind Psychiatry J 2021, 30(2):299-304). The main objective of Hospital at home for psychiatric patients is to provide intense care to patients with severe mental disorders at home as an alternative to acute admission (Alba et al. Rev Psiquiatr Salud Ment. 2019, 12 (4) 207-212). Objectives The aim of this study is to describe the characteristics of patients attended at the Psychiatric Home Hospitalization Unit of our hospital (HAD-CAEM) and to assess the of burden of care that caregivers feel while giveing care to this patients. Methods Data were collected retrospectively at admission and discharge of all patients treated at HAD-CAEM between August 2018 to March 2022. Incomes of patients who met DSM-5 criteria for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. Severity of disease and patient’s level of functionality was evaluated with the global assessment of functioning scale (GAF) and the Clinical Global Impression Scale (CGI). Burden Caregivers was evaluated with The Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale (ZCBS). Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS program. Results 109 patients were included in the study. 49.5% were women. The mean age was 48 years (SD 18.47 years). 44% met criteria for schizophrenia, 25.7% for depressive disorder, and 30.3% for bipolar disorder. Most of them lived with their own family (47.7%); had secondary education (51.4%) and were unemployed (33%). 81% had a history of at least one admission to an acute psychiatric unit. The mean duration of admission in HAD-CAEM was 33.8 days (SD 15.72 days), with a mean follow-up of 8.75 visits (SD 3.58 visits). The mean CGI severity item at admission was 4.36 and there was an improvement at the time of discharge according to the CGI improvement item (mean CGI-I=2.43). The GAF scale on admission was 46.74 (SD 11.2) and on discharge 64.24 (SD 13.85), showing an improvement of 17.5 points at discharge (p

Introduction Traditionally, psychiatric wards had established a “locked door” policy but secluded conditions may increase patient’s discomfort1 that could affect the perception of health quality of care2. Recently, the “open-door” policy is being adopted in several European countries but its impact on patient satisfaction remains unknown (Schreiber, LK. BMC Psychiatry. 2019 May 14;19(1):149). Since 2019 our psychiatric hospital has implemented the open-door policy. Objectives The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of the “open-door” policy on patient satisfaction during their stay in the acute inpatient unit of our psychiatric hospital. Methods This is an observational study. Prior to the implementation of the open door policy 31 patient satisfaction data was collected between October 2018 to April 2019 and it was also assessed with 31 subjects between July to October 2019, after the implementation of the open “door-policy”. The inclusion criteria were being >18 years old, reading Spanish correctly and with a length of stay >72 hours. The patients with dementia disorder and intellectual disability where excluded from the study. We used the Satispsy-22-E scale, a self-administered questionnaire (Frías, V., et al. 2018. Psychiatry Res. Oct;268:8-14). It assesses patient’s experience of hospitalization through 22 items distributed into 6 dimensions. The score range is from 0 to 100. Differences in Satispsy-22-E scores were analysed by applying ANOVA using the IBM-SPSS (v. 25). Results Total scores in Satispsy-22 are provided in Figure 1. We found that patient satisfaction was increased in the dimensions of “personal experience” and “food” (p

Introduction Research shows the benefits of music therapy for various mental health conditions, including depression, trauma, and schizophrenia. Music acts as a medium for processing emotions, trauma, and grief. Playing instruments can encourage emotional expression, socialization and exploration of various therapeutic themes (i.e. conflict, communication, grief, etc.). Group music therapy, measured by questionnaires and described in qualitative interviews, improved quality of life and self-esteem for people with severe mental illness (SMI).Group singing and song writing provide creative options for social connections. Music therapy should be considered as a component of holistic care for people with SMI. Jungup Lee, Thyer BA. May 2013Journal of Human Behaviour in the Social Environment 23(5):597-609 Objectives Music therapy sessions are held in our hospital for people admitted to short-term hospitalization units and to psychosocial rehabilitation units. The goal of the sessions is to create a connection space, promote people’s confidence in their own resources for their recovery, and evoke valuable experiences and memories. Sometimes musicians from the community have been present in the sessions, contributing to overcoming the stigma towards mental illness. Methods We describe self-assessment of people admitted to psychiatric units after attending music therapy sessions. People from brief hospitalization unit filled out a survey, after each session, voluntarily, about their emotional state at the beginning of the session and after it. People from rehabilitation units, voluntarily filled the SRS V.3.0. 2002-Miller. Duncan & Johnson escale.The SRS was designed for use by clinicians to assess the therapeutic alliance during therapy (Duncan BL et al. The Session Rating Scale: Preliminary Psychometric Properties of a “Working” Alliance Measure JBT 3(1) 3-12 12/14/04 3:53 PM Page 3). Results 23 sessions took place for each unit. 39 patients from brief hospitalization, 22 women and 17 men, attended the sessions. 15 had a diagnosis of schizophrenia and related disorders, 13 were affective disorders, and 11 others diagnosis. All of them liked the participation either fully or partially. 76% men and 77% women felt better after, none of them reported to feel worse. 82% men and 86% women replied they would repeat the session. Patients from rehabilitation units were 7 women and 10 men. 14 had a schizophrenia related disorder and 3 had bipolar disorder. All items on the scale were scored above 9 over 10, (I felt heard, understood, and respected/ We worked on and talked about what I wanted to work on and talk about/ The therapist’s approach is a good fit for me) with an overall score of 9,62 over 10 (Overall, today’s session was right for me). Conclusions Music therapy sessions achieve benefits on an emotional level in any of the diagnoses, improving alliance with care teams, who value sessions as normalizing spaces, helping to overcome stigma. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Since the beginning of the modern psychiatry the acute units have established a “locked door” policy. Some studies show that this condition may increase patient’s discomfort and affect the perception of health quality of care (Boyer L, 2009, Eur Psychiatry Dec;24(8):540-9). Lately, several European countries such as Germany, Switzerland and Spain are starting to implement the “open-door” policy but its impact on patient’s satisfaction is still unknown (Hochstrasser, L, Frontiers in Psychiatry, 9(57). https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00057) . Objectives To help characterize the advantages of the “open-door” policy implemented in an acute inpatient psychiatric unit in order to assess the patient’s view of it. Methods This is a descriptive observational study carried out at an inpatient psychiatric unit. Data were collected after the implementation of the open door policy on June 2019, assessing the patient satisfaction of 31 subjects who completed the SATISPSY-22 scale at the time of discharge. Results are described using the average and its standard deviation. Results Results show scores in all items above 50 points, being the care team and the quality of care the most valued ones with 82 and 79 points respectively. The overall score is above 65 points (Fig. 1). Image: Conclusions In line with previous studies, our data suggests that the main impact of the “open-door” policy implementation is on patients’ perception of the care, being Quality of care and satisfaction with the Staff the items with highest scores. This could be explained by patients trusting more in the Care team, which would help enhance the therapeutic relationship improving therapeutic adherence, treatment adequacy and the outcome. Nevertheless, the Feeling related to hospitalisation was found to be the item with the lowest score. This could mean strategies should focus on improving patient’s insight regarding their clinical state and their need to be admitted. Our study supports the hypothesis that open-door policy in acute psychiatric units is seen positively by patients and that further research should be carried. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

El libro traducido al español como ‘Filantropía Blanca’ es simplemente un libro fantástico. Este libro nos lleva por la complejidad de los procesos de racialización durante las primeras décadas del siglo XIX donde se mira a la supremacía blanca de manera transnacional por medio de intervenciones filantrópicas. Este libro, aunque histórico, nos presenta las maneras en las cuales aún hoy el libro Un dilema americano se tiende a utilizar de manera errada en la contemporaneidad.

We report fungal pathogens of invertebrates (FPI) (Entomophthorales, Hypocreales, and Orbiliales) from roots of an endemic Mexican pine, Pinus greggii Engelm. ex Parl., at four primary montane forests using next-generation sequencing. We found twenty-nine OTUs from 18 genera of FPI associated to the roots of P. greggii. New records for Mexico are: Beauveria felina (DC.) J.W.Carmich., Dactylella mammillata S.M. Dixon, Dactylella ramosa Matsushima, Drechslerella brochopaga (Drechsler) M. Scholler, Hagedorn & A. Rubner, Hirsutella minnesotensis Chen, Liu & Chen, Leptobacillium leptobactrum (W.Gams) Zare & W.Gams, Metapochonia variabilis Z.F.Zhang, F.Liu & L.Cai, Monacrosporium leptosporum (Drechsler) A. Rubner, and Simplicillium aogashimaense Nonaka, Kaifuchi & Masuma. A largely unknown array of fungal pathogens of invertebrates are likely to be found in Mexican forests. This work facilitates future analyses of fungal diversity in these primary forests, as well as basic and applied research in biological control.

We present a Python implementation of a D- and E-region chemistry and ionization code called pyGPI5. Particle precipitation that penetrates into the E- and D-region of the ionosphere-thermosphere causes significant enhancements of the electron density. Dissociative recombination of molecular ions with electrons is the primary electron loss mechanism in the E-region, down to approximately 85 km. However, below 85 km, chemical processes become significantly more complicated with positive and negative ions being generated in addition to electrons. The complex D-region ion chemistry has been known for many decades. We present a formulation to quantify the concentrations of four ion species composed of positive and negative, light and heavy ions, and the electrons. The implementation we describe in this investigation solves five ordinary stiff differential equations simultaneously. We present an overview of the code, along with discussions of the reaction rates, and assumptions used in the model. We describe an implementation of the electron transport model to quantify the altitude ionization profile caused by energetic particle precipitation. We show how to instantiate the model, generate the ion and electron profiles as a function of altitude for background conditions, how to generate altitude ionization profiles, and running the code to produce ion and electron profiles caused by energetic particle precipitation. Recent investigations that have used a D-region chemistry model are discussed, along with some applications.