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Technological progress (TC) is an important driving force of resource efficiency, and its bias has an important impact on resource efficiency. Based on the data of China's mariculture industry from 2008 to 2020, this paper constructs a double-layer nested CES production function, and uses the seemingly unrelated regression method to estimate the elasticity of substitution between resource elements and non-resource elements of mariculture industry, and measures the level of resource biased technological progress (RBTC). On this basis, the vector autoregressive model is used to explore the relationship between RBTC, resource price and resource efficiency. The results show that: Firstly, there is complementarity between the resource elements of China's mariculture industry and the non-resource elements aggregated by labor and capital. Secondly, there is a long-term equilibrium relationship between resource biased technological progress, resource price and resource efficiency. resource biased technological progress has a short-term negative and long-term positive impact on resource efficiency, and resource price has a short-term negative and long-term positive impact on resource efficiency. Based on this, this paper puts forward relevant policy recommendations to promote the improvement of resource efficiency of mariculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caco-2 cells, a human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line, are widely used to model small intestinal epithelial cells in the drug development process because they can predict drug absorption with high accuracy. However, Caco-2 cells have several issues. First, Caco-2 cells have little expression of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), which is a major drug-metabolizing enzyme in the human intestine. We previously developed Caco-2 cells whose expression of CYP3A4 can be controlled using doxycycline (Dox) (CYP3A4-Caco-2 cells) (Ichikawa et al., Sci. Rep, 2021). However, since the Tet-On system was used to regulate CYP3A4 expression in these cells, there was concern about drug-drug interactions. The second issue is that in the human small intestine, carboxylesterase 2 (CES2) is more highly expressed than carboxylesterase 1 (CES1), while in Caco-2 cells CES1 is more highly expressed. The third issue is the low level expression of uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1), a phase II drug-metabolizing enzyme. In this study, we used genome-editing technology to establish CES1 -knockout Caco-2 cells whose CYP3A4 and UGT1A1 expression can be regulated by the Tet-Off system. These cell lines would be useful in pharmaceutical researches, including intestinal toxicological studies, as an in vitro model for orally administered drugs. [Display omitted] • CES1-KO/CYP3A4 Caco-2 cells and CES1-KO/CYP3A4-UGT1A1 Caco-2 cells are established. • CES1-KO/CYP3A4 Caco-2 cells can be used to predict absorption of prodrugs metabolized by CES. • CES1-KO/CYP3A4 Caco-2 cells have the potential to predict the metabolism of orally administered drugs involving in CYP3A4 in the small intestine. • CES1-KO/CYP3A4-UGT1A1 Caco-2 cells have the potential to predict the metabolism of orally administered drugs involving in both CYP3A4 and UGT1A1 in the small intestine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cauda equina syndrome is a rare presentation of lumbar spine disease that can result in significant lower limb neurological deficits and permanent bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunction. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can result in irreversible worsening of the condition. Therefore, this is a major cause of litigation against spinal surgeons in the NHS. Urgent MRI scanning is the diagnostic gold-standard and should be available at all hours in all hospitals where patients with potential cauda equina syndrome present. Imaging should be performed within 4 hours of requesting and if the scan is positive for cauda equina compression then treatment should be undertaken as a matter of urgency. Surgery to decompress the cauda equina can prevent further deterioration in symptoms but compared to elective lumbar surgery carries a much higher rate of complications owing to the nature of the disease. Despite rapid treatment, patients can suffer from significant long-term sequelae and require prolonged periods of rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technological progress (TC) is an important driving force of resource efficiency, and its bias has an important impact on resource efficiency. Based on the data of China’s mariculture industry from 2008 to 2020, this paper constructs a double-layer nested CES production function, and uses the seemingly unrelated regression method to estimate the elasticity of substitution between resource elements and non-resource elements of mariculture industry, and measures the level of resource biased technological progress (RBTC). On this basis, the vector autoregressive model is used to explore the relationship between RBTC, resource price and resource efficiency. The results show that: Firstly, there is complementarity between the resource elements of China’s mariculture industry and the non-resource elements aggregated by labor and capital. Secondly, there is a long-term equilibrium relationship between resource biased technological progress, resource price and resource efficiency. resource biased technological progress has a short-term negative and long-term positive impact on resource efficiency, and resource price has a short-term negative and long-term positive impact on resource efficiency. Based on this, this paper puts forward relevant policy recommendations to promote the improvement of resource efficiency of mariculture.

This paper presents a new way to estimate the constant elasticity of substitution $ (\sigma ). $ (σ). We show that the link between $ \sigma $ σ and Divisia index numbers gives rise to a revealing way to obtain preliminary estimates of $ \sigma $ σ. This approach, which is related to stochastic index numbers, is illustrated with time-series and cross-country data. Using consumption data for 12 commodities over time from 23 European countries, we obtain 400 + estimates of $ \sigma $ σ, which mostly lie between 0 and 1. The cross-country estimates are broadly similar. Extensions of the approach to deal with endogenous prices and non-homothetic demand are also considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare but critical disorder, which can result in devastating motor weakness and sensory deficit, alongside often irreversible bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunction. In addition to the clinical burden of disease, this syndrome results in a disproportionately high medicolegal strain due to missed or delayed diagnoses. Despite being an emergency diagnosis, often necessitating urgent surgical decompression to treat, we believe there is a lack of clarity for clinicians in the current literature, with no published Irish guideline concerning screening or detection. The current study aims to identify and analyse appropriate guidelines in relation to CES screening which are available to clinicians in Ireland. The study design included a comprehensive literature review and comparison of existing guidelines. The review identified 13 sources of appropriate guidance for clinicians working in Ireland. These resources included textbooks, websites and guidelines developed in the UK. No Irish guidelines or advice were available on CES screening/treatment at the time of review. This review demonstrated the lack of consensus and guidance for clinicians in Ireland on how to effectively screen for CES, judge who requires further imaging and investigations and how to rule out the condition. A national consensus on thorough screening and prompt investigation for CES is necessary, and the formulation of new CES guidelines would be a welcome addition to what is available to clinicians currently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Jute is classified as a bast fibre crop which is one of the most important natural fibre crops. Jute fibre is both economical and environmentally friendly and it can be utilized for minimizing the use of synthetic fibres. For the quality improvement of jute fibre, the molecular study of the genes linked with the fibre biogenesis is crucial. RNA isolation is a fundamental step for gene expression and transcriptomic studies of jute fibre. RNA isolation is restricted from jute especially from the well-developed bark tissues because it is rich in mucilage, polysaccharides, and phenolic compounds. In this study, a new method was optimized for extracting the total RNA from the field-grown bark tissues of two tossa jute varieties at 30 and 60 Days-After-Germination (DAG). Two-times use of CTAB extraction buffer with SDS and later addition of TRIZOL made the protocol simple, cost effective and minimal time consuming as compared to other methods. The A260/A280 value ranged between 1.99 ± 0.05 to 2.10 ± 0.02 which determined the purity of RNA. The range of the mean yield of the RNA was 232.38 ± 5.01 to 419.49 ± 9.43 µg/ gm of tissue which is abundant for further molecular analysis. For validation of the protocol, the RNA was converted into cDNA which was further amplified by semi quantitative-real-time-PCR using Cellulose synthase gene specific primers. The results indicated that the proposed RNA isolation method will be helpful in further downstream processing for the betterment of jute fibre quality.

We describe the complex case of a 44-year-old man with polycystic kidney disease, mild cognitive impairment, and tremors in the upper limbs. Brain MRI showed lesions compatible with leukodystrophy. The diagnostic process, which included clinical exome sequencing (CES) and chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), revealed a triple diagnosis: autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) due to a pathogenic variant, c.2152C>T-p.(Gln718Ter), in the PKD1 gene; late-onset phenylketonuria due to the presence of two missense variants, c.842C>T-p.(Pro281Leu) and c.143T>C-p.(Leu48Ser) in the PAH gene; and a 915 Kb duplication on chromosome 15. Few patients with multiple concurrent genetic diagnoses are reported in the literature; in this ADPKD patient, genome-wide analysis allowed for the diagnosis of adult-onset phenylketonuria (which would have otherwise gone unnoticed) and a 15q11.2 duplication responsible for cognitive and behavioral impairment with incomplete penetrance. This case underlines the importance of clinical genetics for interpreting complex results obtained by genome-wide techniques, and for diagnosing concurrent late-onset monogenic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research has begun to imply intermediate goods–skill complementarity; however, this possible complementarity has been hypothesized but not statistically tested, despite the increasing importance of intermediate goods in production. This study provides statistical evidence regarding whether intermediate goods are more complementary with skilled labor than with unskilled labor. Using panel data from 40 countries over the period 1995–2009, we estimate a two-level constant elasticity of substitution (CES) production function. Our major findings are fivefold. First, at the aggregated one-sector level, the elasticity of substitution between intermediate goods and unskilled labor is 1.22, which is significantly greater than that between intermediate goods and skilled labor of 1.05, indicating intermediate goods–skill complementarity. Second, at the disaggregated level, such complementarity is primarily observed in heavy manufacturing industries and the service sector, whereas complementarity is observed between intermediate goods and unskilled labor in the primary sector and light manufacturing industries. Third, the normalization of the data and the cumulant estimators exhibit stronger results. Fourth, our baseline results are confirmed applying several robustness checks, such as switching skilled and unskilled labor or considering capital–skill complementarity. Finally, intermediate goods–skill complementarity tends to be higher for industries that use more imported intermediate goods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypohydration can impair aerobic performance and deteriorate cognitive function during exercise. To minimize hypohydration, athletes are recommended to commence exercise at least euhydrated, ingest fluids containing sodium during long-duration and/or high-intensity exercise to prevent body mass loss over 2% and maintain elevated plasma osmolality, and rapidly restore and retain fluid and electrolyte homeostasis before a second exercise session. To achieve these goals, the compositions of the fluids consumed are key; however, it remains unclear what can be considered an optimal formulation for a hydration beverage in different settings. While carbohydrate–electrolyte solutions such as sports drinks have been extensively explored as a source of carbohydrates to meet fuel demands during intense and long-duration exercise, these formulas might not be ideal in situations where fluid and electrolyte balance is impaired, such as practicing exercise in the heat. Alternately, hypotonic compositions consisting of moderate to high levels of electrolytes (i.e., ≥45 mmol/L), mainly sodium, combined with low amounts of carbohydrates (i.e., <6%) might be useful to accelerate intestinal water absorption, maintain plasma volume and osmolality during exercise, and improve fluid retention during recovery. Future studies should compare hypotonic formulas and sports drinks in different exercise settings, evaluating different levels of sodium and/or other electrolytes, blends of carbohydrates, and novel ingredients for addressing hydration and rehydration before, during, and after exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly efficient and convenient green method using highly efficient natural catalyst calcined eggshell (CES) is described for synthesis of 2-amino 4H-chromene derivatives in ethanol–water system. The new inexpensive green catalyst CES is obtained from waste natural resources. This method offers mild reaction conditions at ambient temperature, with short reaction times and clean work up procedures. This is an economical and green alternative for existing methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humanity confronts complex, multidimensional challenges to the security of the people and the planet we live on. These threats continue to defy resolution by means of the existing policies, institutions and actions of nations around the world. In spite of unprecedented and remarkable achievements, our sense of insecurity continues to rise. A fundamental change is needed in our concept of security and the strategies, policies and institutional framework by which we seek to achieve it. The human security approach was first advocated by the United Nations in 1994 and has since been applied in hundreds of programs around the world. This article calls for adoption of the human security approach at the global level as a comprehensive, integrated strategy to meet global challenges by addressing both the objective and subjective factors required for their resolution. It broadens the concept of security by placing the security of each and every individual at the center. It calls for a global campaign to generate awareness and elicit active support and participation from all major sectors and sections of global society in an unprecedented effort to release and mobilize the untapped energies and capacities of humanity in pursuit of human security for all.

Objective: to assess the clinical and economic feasibility of ticagrelor in combination with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) in comparison with clopidogrel in combination with ASA in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), including both those who underwent, and those who did not undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG); and new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in combination with clopidogrel in comparison with warfarin in combination with clopidogrel and ASA in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who underwent PCI; to identify the impact of the above strategies of antithrombotic therapy on the targets of the State Health Care Program of the Russian Federation (RF) “Development of Health Care” and the Federal Project “Cardiovascular Diseases Control”.Material and methods. The clinical and economic study (CES) of ticagrelor in combination with ASA in ACS patients was based on a costbenefit analysis. A combined model, including a decision tree and Markov model was developed. The horizon period of the analysis was 5 years. Quality-adjusted life year (QALY) was used as an efficiency criterion and only the direct medical costs associated with the conditions identified in the modeling were taken into account. A discount rate of 5% was taken into account during the CES. The application of NOACs in combination with clopidogrel was studied in the CES using a cost minimization analysis considering the costs per patient characterized by the presence of AF regardless of the presence of ACS and a history of PCI.Results. We used a decision tree and Markov modeling in adult patients with ACS, who had or had not undergone PCI or CABG, in the horizon period of 5 years considering the discount rate of the added quality-adjusted life year (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) per QALY). The result for ticagrelor in combination with ASA compared to clopidogrel in combination with ASA was 605,199 rubles, which was significantly lower than the willingness-to-pay threshold (2,235,201 rubles). Assessment of the impact of the therapy regimen including ticagrelor in combination with ASA on the target indicators of the State Health Care Program of the RF “Development of Healthcare” and the Federal Project “Cardiovascular Diseases Control” showed that the use of this therapy regimen will reduce mortality from myocardial infarction (MI) and cardiovascular causes by 2.45 cases per 100 thousand population provided that 100% of patients with MI and unstable angina in the RF are transferred from clopidogrel + ASA scheme to ticagrelor + ASA. The potential contribution of ticagrelor in combination with ASA compared to clopidogrel in combination with ASA in patients with ACS in achieving the target reduction of mortality from circulatory diseases will be 6.48% by 2023. In all simulated scenarios, in the group of patients with AF who had undergone PCI, pharmacotherapy regimens containing NOACs (dabigatran etexilate, rivaroxaban, apixaban) were more costly than therapy regimens containing warfarin (with not significantly different effectiveness).Conclusion. The results of the evaluation of clinical and economic feasibility of antiplatelet therapy strategies demonstrated the costeffectiveness of ticagrelor in combination with ASA compared to clopidogrel in combination with ASA in patients with ACS, including those who had undergone PCI or CABG and those who had not. The strategy of ticagrelor + ASA showed a favorable effect on the rates of mortality from MI, as well as from circulatory diseases. The results of the clinical and economic evaluation of the four strategies of antithrombotic drug therapy in patients with AF who had undergone PCI showed higher costs of the regimens containing NOACs with a presumed zero effect on the mortality from circulatory diseases.

Background: People with cauda equina syndrome (CES) often experience bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunction, which can result in short to significant issues. It was recognised in the authors' hospital that the post-operative follow-up and management of CES complications was inconsistent for CES patients. Consequently, a nurse led cauda equina service was developed using a quality improvement framework that focused on enhancing the post-operative care and the support these patients receive both in hospital and following discharge. Aim: To evaluate this 2-year long nurse led CES service to identify areas of success and improvement. Results: In this particular hospital, there was a yearly increase in CES patients (46 patients in 2020 and 59 patients in 2021), with many patients left with some degree of bladder (26%), bowel (30%) and sexual (24%) dysfunction. Conclusion: It is clear that the nurse led cauda equina service has improved the process for managing patients with CES post-surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal differences of bird assemblages were studied using mist-netting method during four seasons (May, July, September, and December) in two years (2014 and 2021) in a secondary wetland habitat (7 mist-nets in willow grove, reed, and scrubland) in Zvolen town, central Slovakia. Altogether 54 species and 876 individuals of birds were captured during 24 days of eight trapping sessions (in 84 m of mist-nets at 7.3 ha study plot). The highest number of mist-netted species and individuals was found in July (36 species, 290 individuals), the lowest was in December (16 species, 153 individuals), pooled for both years. The most abundant species were breeding species Sylvia atricapilla, Parus major, Cyanistes caeruleus and Turdus merula. The characteristic reedbed birds included four Acrocephalus species, Locustella luscinioides, Emberiza schoeniclus, and scrubland species Luscinia megarhynchos, Sylvia communis and Remiz pendulinus. Seasonal differences in species number and abundance are discussed. Regular wintering was found in migratory species Prunella modularis and Erithacus rubecula north of the known winter quarters of their central European breeding populations. The site fidelity and between-season retraps were confirmed in 10 species and 54 individuals (18.5% of all mist-netted species and 6.2% of all individuals). Based on retrapped individuals, the resident species P. major, C. caeruleus, Aegithalos caudatus and T. merula were the most faithful to the site, whereas inter-seasonal retraps of migratory species were rare (e. g. Sylvia atricapilla, Luscinia megarhynchos and Phylloscopus collybita).

Abstract Background Cat eye syndrome (CES) is a rare chromosomal disease, with estimated incidence of about 1 in 100,000 live newborns. The classic triad of iris coloboma, anorectal malformations, and auricular abnormalities is present in 40% of patients, and other congenital defects may also be observed. The typical associated cytogenetic anomaly relies on an extra chromosome, derived from an inverted duplication of short arm and proximal long arm of chromosome 22, resulting in partial trisomy or tetrasomy of such regions (inv dup 22pter-22q11.2). Case presentation We report on a full-term newborn, referred to us soon after birth. Physical examination showed facial dysmorphisms, including hypertelorism, down slanted palpebral fissures, and dysplastic ears with tragus hypoplasia and pre-auricular pit. Ophthalmologic evaluation and heart ultrasound identified left chorioretinal and iris coloboma and ostium secundum type atrial septal defect, respectively. Based on the suspicion of cat eye syndrome, a standard karyotype analysis was performed, and detected an extra small marker chromosome confirming the CES diagnosis. The chromosomal abnormality was then defined by array comparative genome hybridization (a-CGH, performed also in the parents), which identified the size of the rearrangement (3 Mb), and its de novo occurrence. Postnatally, our newborn presented with persistent hypoglycemia and cholestatic jaundice. Endocrine tests revealed congenital hypothyroidism, cortisol and growth hormone (GH) deficiencies, which were treated with replacement therapies (levotiroxine and hydrocortisone). Brain magnetic resonance imaging, later performed, showed aplasia of the anterior pituitary gland, agenesis of the stalk and ectopic neurohypophysis, confirming the congenital hypopituitarism diagnosis. She was discharged at 2 months of age, and included in a multidisciplinary follow-up. She currently is 7 months old and shows a severe global growth failure, and developmental delay. She started GH replacement treatment, and continues oral hydrocortisone, along with ursodeoxycholic acid and levothyroxine, allowing an adequate control of glycemic and thyroid profiles as well as of cholestasis. Conclusions CES phenotypic spectrum is wide and highly variable. Our report highlights how among the possible associated endocrine disorders, congenital hypopituitarism may occur, leading to persistent hypoglycemia and cholestasis. These patients should be promptly assessed for complete hormonal evaluations, in addition to major malformations and midline anomalies. Early recognition of such defects is necessary to decrease fatal events, as well as short and long-term related adverse outcomes.

Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) is a relatively uncommon and complex disorder. Recently, there has been a surge in research on CES. Although the research directions are multifarious, the overall research trends are unclear at present. We aimed to identify the 100 most cited articles on CES and analyze the hot spots trends regarding CES related research by bibliometric analysis. Articles were obtained by conducting an English language search of the Web of Science Core Collection Databases with the keywords "cauda equina syndrome." The initial 390 articles returned from the search were analyzed by VOSviewer. Next, the top 100 most cited articles were further analyzed by title, authors, journal, year of publication, total citations, country of origin, institution, and keywords. A total of 390 publications were identified. The top 100 most cited articles were listed in descending order of total citations (range: 196-11). These articles originated from 24 countries; among these countries, the United Kingdom contributed the most publications (n = 29). The most prolific journal was Spine (n = 27), and the University of Edinburgh was the most productive institution (n = 9). The number of publications on CES increased steadily, with a stable rise in recent years. Some publications have been cited more than 100 times, indicating that these findings are widely accepted by relevant clinicians and contribute significantly to the knowledge of CES. This study represents the first bibliometric analysis and visualization of hot spots analysis and research trends on CES. We believe that this will aid clinical researchers in targeting future areas of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research presents a numerical investigation of circular Concrete Encased Steel Composite (CESC) columns. To simulate the circular CESC columns under axial compression in the previous tests, a Finite Element Model (FEM) with some modifications of material models for the steel and concrete was established in ABAQUS software. The curves of load versus longitudinal displacement and the ultimate loads obtained from the FEM were compared with those measured in previous tests. The numerical results agreed well with the test results. Furthermore, the distribution of the stresses on the cross-section at different heights and the effect of initial imperfections were observed by the FEM results. A highly confined concrete zone enclosed by steel web and steel flanges was observed. Finally, the established FEM was used in the parametric study that investigated the influence of concrete strength, steel yield strength, and spacing of the spiral hoops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial Intelligence (AI), the emergence and development of social system model, are gradually affecting the development of system engineering technology and methods. AI mainly focuses on acquiring new knowledge or skills by looking for rules from observation data (samples); social system model mainly focuses on the ability of description and model demonstration from the current situation to the future. The combination of AI and social system model can promote the research of social problems related to system engineering. The synergetic growth of various sectors of the economic system depends on the initial level of output of each sector and its internal relations. This paper focuses on the internal relationship of the two-sector economic model and explores the impact of distribution relations on the synergetic growth of sectors. The study found that the necessary conditions for synergetic growth is a function of the profit rate, the difference between the labor income (or capital income) of the two sectors, and the marginal consumption propensity. This function has a more complex and nonlinear characteristic. By demonstrating the effects of changes in some parameters, we find that an increase in the profit rate requires that the income distribution structure of the two sectors tend to be the same; an increase in the marginal consumption propensity can allow for greater differences in the income distribution structure of the two sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of International Journal of Research on Service-Learning & Community Engagement is the property of International Association for Research on Service - Learning & Community Engagement and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista CIENCIA UNEMI is the property of Universidad Estatal de Milagro (UNEMI) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This paper performs a nonlinear estimation of a normalized CES production function within a system of equations with a panel of Spanish regions for the period 1964-2013. It obtains an elasticity of substitution below one and identifies different rates of factor-augmenting technical progress. The results support for labor-saving innovations hypothesis for the Spanish case. Nevertheless, they do not support a relationship between the elasticity of substitution and the initial regional capital per worker. The results do not change if labor is adjusted by human capital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analysis and prediction of systemic financial risks in the US during the COVID-19 pandemic is of great significance to the stability of financial markets in the US and even the world. This paper aims to predict the systemic financial risk in the US before and during the COVID-19 pandemic by using copula–GJR–GARCH models with component expected shortfall (CES), and also identify systemically important financial institutions (SIFIs) for the two comparative periods. The empirical results show that the overall systemic financial risk increased after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the first half of the year. We predicted four extreme risks that were basically successful in capturing the high risks in the US financial markets. Second, we identified the SIFIs, and depository banks made the greatest contribution to systemic risk from four financial groups. Third, after the outbreak of the epidemic, the share of Broker–Dealer and Other Institutions in the overall systemic risk has apparently increased. Finally, we recommend that the US financial regulators should consider macro-prudential guidance for major financial institutions, and we should pay more attention to Broker–Dealers, thereby improving the financial stability of the US and the global financial markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Österreichische Wasser- und Abfallwirtschaft is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Adult patients with undiagnosed genetic disorders suffer most from diagnostic delay and seldom appear in cohort studies investigating the diagnostic yield in medical genetic clinical practice. Here we present the results of the diagnostic activity performed in a referral center on 654 consecutive, unselected adult subjects presenting with molecularly unsolved conditions. More than 50% of the referred individuals were affected by syndromic or isolated intellectual disability. Different molecular approaches, including clinical/whole exome sequencing (CES/WES), chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), and/or targeted gene or gene panel sequencing were used to analyze patients' DNA. Definitive diagnosis was obtained in over 30% of individuals. The most sensitive methodology was CES/WES, which allowed us to reach a diagnosis in over 50% of the 162 solved cases. Despite the great variety of clinical presentations, our results represent a reliable picture of the "real world" daily routine in an outpatient medical genetics clinic dedicated to diagnostic activity, and contribute to better understand the great value of a definitive molecular diagnosis in adults, either for the affected individuals and their families. This retrospective analysis demonstrates the importance of adopting a genomic-first approach within the diagnostic process for adults affected with unsolved rare conditions., (© 2025 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Cat eye syndrome (CES) is a rare chromosomal disease, with estimated incidence of about 1 in 100,000 live newborns. The classic triad of iris coloboma, anorectal malformations, and auricular abnormalities is present in 40% of patients, and other congenital defects may also be observed. The typical associated cytogenetic anomaly relies on an extra chromosome, derived from an inverted duplication of short arm and proximal long arm of chromosome 22, resulting in partial trisomy or tetrasomy of such regions (inv dup 22pter-22q11.2). Case presentation: We report on a full-term newborn, referred to us soon after birth. Physical examination showed facial dysmorphisms, including hypertelorism, down slanted palpebral fissures, and dysplastic ears with tragus hypoplasia and pre-auricular pit. Ophthalmologic evaluation and heart ultrasound identified left chorioretinal and iris coloboma and ostium secundum type atrial septal defect, respectively. Based on the suspicion of cat eye syndrome, a standard karyotype analysis was performed, and detected an extra small marker chromosome confirming the CES diagnosis. The chromosomal abnormality was then defined by array comparative genome hybridization (a-CGH, performed also in the parents), which identified the size of the rearrangement (3 Mb), and its de novo occurrence. Postnatally, our newborn presented with persistent hypoglycemia and cholestatic jaundice. Endocrine tests revealed congenital hypothyroidism, cortisol and growth hormone (GH) deficiencies, which were treated with replacement therapies (levotiroxine and hydrocortisone). Brain magnetic resonance imaging, later performed, showed aplasia of the anterior pituitary gland, agenesis of the stalk and ectopic neurohypophysis, confirming the congenital hypopituitarism diagnosis. She was discharged at 2 months of age, and included in a multidisciplinary follow-up. She currently is 7 months old and shows a severe global growth failure, and developmental delay. She started GH replacement treatment, and continues oral hydrocortisone, along with ursodeoxycholic acid and levothyroxine, allowing an adequate control of glycemic and thyroid profiles as well as of cholestasis. Conclusions: CES phenotypic spectrum is wide and highly variable. Our report highlights how among the possible associated endocrine disorders, congenital hypopituitarism may occur, leading to persistent hypoglycemia and cholestasis. These patients should be promptly assessed for complete hormonal evaluations, in addition to major malformations and midline anomalies. Early recognition of such defects is necessary to decrease fatal events, as well as short and long-term related adverse outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spondylodiscitis with/without neurologic impairment is a serious infection, predominantly occurring in high-risk patients. Campylobacter fetus caused spondylodiscitis is very rare. Evidence-based therapeutic concepts for lumbar spondylodiscitis are lacking. A 64-year-old high-risk woman underwent decompression with instrumented lumbar fusion. Six months after index surgery, she developed pyelonephritis, which deteriorated to sepsis and presentation of cauda equina syndrome. She underwent urgent revision with decompression, debridement, and instrumentation removal, and received long-term antibiotics. Culture grew Campylobacter fetus, previously not reported as a cause of spondylodiscitis after elective instrumented lumbar fusion. Emergent debridement and removal of instrumentation, with 2 months of targeted intravenous antibiotics followed by 6 weeks of oral antibiotics led to complete spondylodiscitis resolution. Prompt diagnostics and targeted antibiotic treatment are paramount when dealing with spinal infections, particularly in patients with rare causative pathogens like Campylobacter fetus. Concomitant neurological complications may require emergent surgical management in the case of cauda equina syndrome.

COVID-19 has become one of the most significant events in the history of globalization. The prolonged 'lockdown' adopted across various countries in the world as a countermeasure for containing the spread of the virus profoundly brought forth socio-economic and infrastructural vulnerabilities in urban as well as rural parts of India. While urban and rural areas have been greatly studied with respect to the environment, human health, safety, livelihoods, associated risks, etc., in the context of pandemics, many of these studies seldom accommodate their interdependency as a pragmatic approach to planning. This is observed to be primarily due to the dynamic and diverse nature of interactions coupled with the development disparities between rural and urban areas, thereby adding complexity to development decision making. The present study, therefore, applies the lens of the circulating and ecological sphere (CES), introduced by the Japanese government for the localization of resource flows between urban–rural regions, to consider possible alternative development approaches to achieve smooth transitions during pandemics through the case study area located in Hingna tahsil in the Nagpur Metropolitan Area, India. The methodology uses the critical examination of rural–urban linkages amidst the crisis through key-informant surveys involving representatives from local governments. Using this feedback and spatial analysis tools, the research identifies probable entry points in post-pandemic regional planning. The research contributes to understanding the impact of spatial development during pandemics through ground-based evidence. The findings from this research highlight the need to manage rural dependencies on urban areas and underline the potential of the rural–urban linkage as an approach, acknowledged and emphasized through CES, for managing such regional-scale hazards. The investigation concludes with the discussion and future research scope for achieving the pronounced needs reflected through the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this qualitative phenomenological study, the purpose was to explore the experiences of recent online Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)-accredited counselor education and supervision (CES) graduates concerning their dissertation completion process. Past research had shown a dissertation noncompletion rate 10%-20% higher in distance education programs compared to traditional institutions. Participant recruitment was facilitated by criterion sampling and snowball sampling and included seven recent graduates of online CACREP-accredited CES programs. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. Data analysis conducted using Smith et al.'s six-step data analysis process yielded three significant themes: dissertation task engagement, stakeholder interaction, and impact of the environment. Implications of the findings extend to improvements in dissertation readiness and socialization, meaningful experiences, and dissertation completion rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cauda equina syndrome (CES) can have devastating neurological sequelae if surgical treatment is delayed. However, out-of-hours surgery (weekdays from 6:00 pm to 8:00 am and all weekend operations) can potentially result in higher rates of intraoperative complications, resulting in worse outcomes. In the present study, we have described our outcomes for patients with CES during an 8-year period (December 2011 to October 2019) with the aim of assessing the risk of out-of-hours surgery. We performed a retrospective analysis of inpatient events and outcomes at 6 months of follow-up. Patient demographics, symptoms, and management data were extracted, and a risk factor analysis was performed using logistic regression. The outcome measures were the incidence of complications and symptom changes at follow-up. Symptom outcome changes between 2 time points were analyzed using repeated measures. A total of 278 patients were included in the present study. Surgery out-of-hours (P = 0.018) and prolonged operations (P = 0.018) were significant risk factors for intraoperative complications. Improved outcomes at 6 months of follow-up were found for lower back pain, sciatica, altered saddle sensation, and urinary sphincter disturbance, with no significant changes for the remaining symptoms. Out-of-hours surgeries did not significantly affect individual symptom outcomes. Our analysis has suggested that emergency decompressive surgery for patients with CES does not result in worsening of outcomes with out-of-hours surgery compared with in-hours. However, our findings also showed that no clear benefit exists to expediting surgery for those with severe presentations. Thus, decompressive surgery should be undertaken at the earliest possible time to safely do so. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cultural ecosystem services (CES) are mainly intangible benefits, obtained by aesthetical and other experiences, recreation, learning and spiritual enrichment, or by the ability to distinguish values. In other words, what makes a service ‘cultural’ is its ‘non-economical’ character. CES are ecosystem services with direct impact on the quality of life in urban systems, and they are directly appreciated by inhabitants and visitors of these urban systems (Plieningeret al., 2013; Zulian et al., 2018). In order to satisfy the needs and expectations of the wider urban community, a ‘broader portfolio of areas’ is needed, which can meet the expectations of different users, from children to older adults. The new methodological approach tested on three model areas in the city of Nitra in the housing estate Chrenová was used to establish the level of benefits provided by existing vegetation areas in urban environment in terms of recreation as a CES. Following data were collected: the quality of vegetation, spatial design, management of vegetation elements, selected environmental aspects, available amenities and architectural elements needed for recreation. In our article, we present the assessment of vegetation in relation to the provision of recreation as a CES. Our results show that the assessed areas can be classified in the category of average to low provision of benefits related to recreation. Vegetation on area P1 is in good condition, mainly the quality of trees and shrubs was assessed as very good (4). Other areas (P2 and P3) assessed provide only low levels of benefits derived from recreation as one of the CES. This was caused by some vegetation deficiencies (mainly related to horticultural and compositional aspects). Methodological approach can be used for different vegetation areas in urban environment and after suitable modifications (e.g. adding other components for assessment) also for different cultural ecosystems services. The results can be used in landscape planning documents or in other types of documents dealing with the quality of vegetation in urban environment.

Abstract Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES) encompass a range of social, cultural and health benefits to local communities, for example recreation, spirituality, a sense of place and local identity. However, these complex and place‐specific CES are often overlooked in rapid land management decisions and assessed using broad, top–down approaches. We use the Toolkit for Ecosystem Service Site‐based Assessment (TESSA) to examine a novel approach to rapid assessment of local CES provision using inductive, participatory methods. We combined free‐listing and participatory geographic information systems (GIS) techniques to quantify and map perceptions of current CES provision of an urban green space. The results were then statistically compared with those of a proposed alternative scenario with the aim to inform future decision‐making. By identifying changes in the spatial hotspots of CES in our study area, we revealed a spatially specific shift towards positive sentiment regarding several CES under the alternative state with variance across demographic and stakeholder groups. Response aggregations in areas of proposed development reveal previously unknown stakeholder preferences to local decision‐makers and highlight potential trade‐offs for conservation management. Free‐listed responses revealed deeper insight into personal opinion and context. This work serves as a useful case study on how the perceptions and opinions of local people regarding local CES could be accounted for in the future planning of an urban greenspace and how thorough analysis of CES provision is important to fully inform local‐scale conservation and planning for the mutual benefit of local communities and nature. A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.

Since the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment in 2005, interest has increased in cultural ecosystem services (CESs) research to understand the complexity of the non-material benefits that people obtain from ecosystems. The intangible and interactive characteristics of CESs present many challenges regarding how to approach, quantify and even define CESs. In this paper, we suggest looking at CESs through the lens of embodied and situated cognition theories. We advocate that such an approach should be applied to the development stage of CES research projects, as the embodied and situated experience of the site aids the development of research questions and future interventions. We described a case study—namely, the Environmental Empathy Research Challenge, which took place during the ColLaboratoire 2020 Research Residency in the Philippines. This case shows how interactive, embodied and situated workshops, such as Embodied Empathy and Walking Maps, contributed to developing a research proposal and a novel research framework, ecological embodied cognition (EEC). EEC focuses on the concept of environmental empathy to redefine the human-environment relationship. Further, based on an example of a participatory research activity, Sensing-Playing-Moving, we examined how interventions founded upon EEC principles enhance environmental empathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]