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The present work is dedicated to an experimental and theoretical study of an innovative underwater ultrasound source. The source works using a technique in which a pulsed power generator using the impedance mismatch of a long high-voltage coaxial cable generates a train of voltage impulses with a very high pulse repetition frequency of the order of a few MHz. Applying this train of voltage impulses to a pair of underwater electrodes generates a streamer-initiated breakdown of water and, subsequently, a plasma column connecting the electrodes over a very large inter-electrode gap of 55 mm. The interaction of the long plasma column thus formed with the surrounding water produces a rapidly expanding vapor bubble, an "instrument" producing a strong pressure wave with an overall energy efficiency of 24%, an order of magnitude higher than most underwater pressure sources reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between team membership in child and family work, social work and retention has been noted in studies of wellbeing, resilience, burn out and retention itself. That you work surrounded by good colleagues in friendly teams is rated by workers as one of the most important reasons for staying in these jobs. However, figures show increasing rates of leaving from 2017 to 2023, with a numerical spike from 2020 to 2023. This paper examines the implications of this exodus for working in teams. It considers why the team might be highly valued, what kind of impact the pandemic had on this and why its re-establishment has been far from complete. Drawing on recognition and psychosocial theory and from the author's research on retention and well being in child and family social work, it examines the implications of the absence of work group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute hepatic porphyria (AHP) constitutes a class of rare diseases caused by reduced function in enzymes of the heme-biosynthetic pathway. AHP includes acute intermittent porphyria (AIP), hereditary coproporphyria (HCP), variegate porphyria (VP) and the extremely rare δ-aminolevulinic-dehydrase deficiency porphyria (ADP). This retrospective study describes characteristics of the Danish AHP patient population. Methods: Department of Endocrinology at Odense University Hospital serves as national AHP center. We performed a 5-year retrospective description of our AHP cohort using electronic patient journals. We included general symptoms, number of acute attacks, hospitalization rates, long-term sequelae and symptoms, and grouped patients according to creatinine-adjusted urinary baseline excretion (i.e., outside attacks) of the porphyrin precursor porphobilinogen (PBG) in normal-, moderate- and high-excretion and unknown. Results: The cohort contained 129 AHP patients, hereof 100 AIP, 12 HCP and 17 VP. Median age was 46.3 (32.1–62.0) years, and 85 (65.9%) were female. During the 5-years, 38 (29.5%) patients experienced symptoms. Hereof, 20 patients were hospitalized with acute attacks or chronic symptoms and treated with human hemin (n = 14). Most frequently reported symptoms were abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and neurological disturbances. Symptoms were more common in patients with high PBG baseline excretion (n = 39) as compared to those with moderate (n = 31) or normal (n = 40) PBG excretion (p = 0.002). Furthermore, females dominated the symptomatic group (68.4%). Conclusion: As reported internationally, AHP is more commonly diagnosed and symptomatic in women, and AIP was the most frequent AHP subtype. Those with an elevated urinary baseline PBG secretion were more likely to report AHP-related symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health disparities in rheumatic disease are well established and urgently need addressing. Obstacles to precision medicine equity span both the clinical and the research domains, with a focus placed on structural barriers limiting equitable health care access and inclusivity in research. Less articulated factors include the use of inaccurate population descriptors and the existence of research silos in rheumatology research, which creates a knowledge gap that precludes addressing the health disparities and fulfilling the goals of precision medicine to understand the 'full patient'. The biopsychosocial model is a research framework that intertwines layers of biological and environmental effects to understand disease. However, very limited rheumatology research bridges across molecular and epidemiological studies of environmental exposures, such as physical and social determinants of health. In this Review, we discuss clinical obstacles to health care equity, including access to health care and the use of inaccurate language when labelling population groups. We explore the goals and data needed for research under the biopsychosocial model. We describe results from a rheumatic disease literature search that highlights the paucity of studies investigating the molecular influences of systemic exposures. We conclude with a list of considerations and recommendations to help achieve equitable precision medicine. This Review discusses obstacles to health care equity in rheumatic disease, including access to health care and the use of inaccurate language when labelling population groups. The authors also highlight the siloing of biological and epidemiological research in rheumatology. They conclude with recommendations for achieving equitable precision medicine. Key points: Health disparities in rheumatic disease are well established and need addressing urgently. Currently, epidemiological and biological research exists in silos, which hampers our ability to elucidate the interplay and underlying molecular mechanisms by which environmental exposures yield biological changes. Poor diversity and inclusivity in research datasets, individual and structural barriers in access to research and care, inaccurate use of population descriptors, and research siloing limit equal and equitable precision medicine and health. Embracing ecological frameworks such as the biopsychosocial model will enable research that better accounts for the multi-faceted factors contributing to rheumatic disease prevalence and progression. The continued development of omics technologies and emerging large population-based registries offer great opportunities for identifying and alleviating health disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have demonstrated that buoyancy and wind shear play an important role in modulating turbulence organization in the convective boundary layer (CBL). Although transitional periods in the CBL have been studied using observations and numerical modeling, most previous studies have focused on statistical properties under steady-state forcings. In this study we investigate how turbulence organization reacts to unsteady surface forcing by running a suite of large eddy simulations with a temporally variable surface heat flux and a range of geostrophic wind values. For each simulation, a homogeneous surface heat flux ( Q 0 ) of 0.05 K m s - 1 is imposed for 10 h to allow the flow to reach a quasi-steady state before Q 0 is increased instantaneously to 0.30 K m s - 1 . At hour 13, Q 0 is reduced back to 0.05 K m s - 1 . Mean geostrophic wind ranges from 6 m s - 1 to 15 m s - 1 and is held constant through each run. Using the roll factor, which is based on the rotational symmetry of the vertical velocity two-point correlation, and the ratio of integral length scales in the streamwise and spanwise directions, we find that large-scale convective structures transition from roll-like when Q 0 is low to cell-like when Q 0 is increased. Hysteresis is found in these structures as a function of - z i / L and are found to vary from structures seen under stationary surface forcings at the same stability. These results demonstrate that CBL structures are not a function of - z i / L alone during transition periods, but exhibit dependence on the temporal history of Q 0 experienced by the CBL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Professional practice in health and social care is embodied by the practitioners concerned, embedded in practice contexts and creative in nature. It is therefore complex to investigate, understand and develop. Current health and social care contexts can present practitioners with increasingly constraining circumstances and spaces that can feel closed instead of open to exploration and development of practice. The collaborative, critical and creative inquiry methodology presented here was developed among nurses practising in such challenging circumstances. It enables nurses and other health and social care practitioners to reveal, explore and develop their embodied practices, systematically and collaboratively, amid busy daily practice situations. However 'small' the space they are in, the process described here can help practitioners to enlarge their space for becoming. The iterative cycle and the use of participatory arts help illuminate otherwise hidden and difficult to articulate aspects of practice, enable the involvement of stakeholders in coming to new understandings and lead to an expanded view of professional practice and its potential for transformation. The purpose of this paper is threefold. First, to present the methodology, methods and lessons learned during the doctoral study in which this approach was developed. Second, to reveal the professional artistry of facilitating this space for becoming and of supporting professionals to reveal their own and others' professional artistry. Lastly, to offer inspiration and a guide for others considering similar participative inquiry work and to encourage debate and critique of the approach taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with the genetic disorder Niemann-Pick type C2 disease (NP-C2) suffer from lysosomal accumulation of cholesterol causing both systemic and severe neurological symptoms. In a murine NP-C2 model, otherwise successful intravenous Niemann-Pick C2 protein (NPC2) replacement therapy fails to alleviate progressive neurodegeneration as infused NPC2 cannot cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Genetic modification of brain endothelial cells (BECs) is thought to enable secretion of recombinant proteins thereby overcoming the restrictions of the BBB. We hypothesized that an adeno-associated virus (AAV-BR1) encoding the Npc2 gene could cure neurological symptoms in Npc2−/− mice through transduction of BECs, and possibly neurons via viral passage across the BBB. Methods: Six weeks old Npc2−/− mice were intravenously injected with the AAV-BR1-NPC2 vector. Composite phenotype scores and behavioral tests were assessed for the following 6 weeks and visually documented. Post-mortem analyses included gene expression analyses, verification of neurodegeneration in Purkinje cells, determination of NPC2 transduction in the CNS, assessment of gliosis, quantification of gangliosides, and co-detection of cholesterol with NPC2 in degenerating neurons. Results: Treatment with the AAV-BR1-NPC2 vector improved motor functions, reduced neocortical inflammation, and preserved Purkinje cells in most of the mice, referred to as high responders. The vector exerted tropism for BECs and neurons resulting in a widespread NPC2 distribution in the brain with a concomitant reduction of cholesterol in adjacent neurons, presumably not transduced by the vector. Mass spectrometry imaging revealed distinct lipid alterations in the brains of Npc2−/− mice, with increased GM2 and GM3 ganglioside accumulation in the cerebellum and hippocampus. AAV-BR1-NPC2 treatment partially normalized these ganglioside distributions in high responders, including restoration of lipid profiles towards those of Npc2+/+ controls. Conclusion: The data suggests cross-correcting gene therapy to the brain via delivery of NPC2 from BECs and neurons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review was inspired by a January 2024 conference held at Friday Harbor Laboratories, WA, honoring the pioneering work of A.O. Dennis Willows, who initiated research on the sea slug Tritonia diomedea (now T. exsulans). A chance discovery while he was a student at a summer course there has, over the years, led to many insights into the roles of identified neurons in neural circuits and their influence on behavior. Among Dennis's trainees was Peter Getting, whose later groundbreaking work on central pattern generators profoundly influenced the field and included one of the earliest uses of realistic modeling for understanding neural circuits. Research on Tritonia has led to key conceptual advances in polymorphic or multifunctional neural networks, intrinsic neuromodulation, and the evolution of neural circuits. It also has enhanced our understanding of geomagnetic sensing, learning and memory mechanisms, prepulse inhibition, and even drug-induced hallucinations. Although the community of researchers studying Tritonia has never been large, its contributions to neuroscience have been substantial, underscoring the importance of examining a diverse array of animal species rather than focusing on a small number of standard model organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Turtle hepatocytes are a nonexcitable model for metabolic depression during low-temperature and/or anoxic overwintering conditions. Cytoskeletal structure and mitochondrial distribution are continuously modified in cells, and we hypothesized that metabolic depression would inhibit such processes as cell attachment and spreading and promote withdrawal of cell protrusions and peripheral mitochondria. After developing a methodology for culturing painted turtle hepatocytes, two-dimensional (2-D) area and maintenance of cell attachment after a media change were used as indicators of structural rearrangement and spreading/volume. These were measured after incubating cells at varying temperatures and with or without the inclusion of cyanide (chemical proxy for anoxia). Experiments were performed using cells from 22°C- or 5°C-acclimated turtles. Live-cell imaging was used to monitor the effect of cyanide exposure on the distribution of mitochondria. We also acclimated cultured cells from 22°C-acclimated turtles to 4°C in vitro and scored withdrawal of protrusions. Only cells isolated from 5°C-acclimated turtles and incubated at 4°C had reduced attachment to fibronectin substrate, but cyanide exposure had no effect. These cells also had a 30% smaller 2-D area than those from 22°C-acclimated turtles. There was no change in mitochondrial distribution during cyanide perfusion. Finally, 4°C acclimation in vitro resulted in the withdrawal of protrusions over 14 days. Taken together with the results from cells acclimated to low temperature in vivo, this suggests inhibition of structural rearrangement and protrusion stability by low temperature acclimation, but not cyanide exposure. Our cultured primary hepatocyte system will facilitate further study of the role of structural dynamics in reversible metabolic depression. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: We have optimized a methodology for two-dimensional (2-D) culturing of primary western painted turtle hepatocytes and used this model to study the effects of cyanide and temperature on structural rearrangement, and the effect of cyanide on mitochondrial distribution. Our results suggest that low temperature acclimation, either in vivo or in vitro, inhibits cell protrusions and structural rearrangement. Acute cyanide exposure did not inhibit structural rearrangement or alter mitochondrial distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efforts to increase the number of behavioral health (BH) paraprofessionals delivering substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and prevention services in the U.S. are underway. This scoping review sought to determine the efficacy of these efforts by answering: what client-centered SUD recovery outcomes are associated with interventions delivered by paraprofessionals? Database searches identified 18 full-text, peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2022 eligible for review; however, none of the charted studies met all inclusion criteria for answering the question. This scoping review revealed that there is insufficient data about the impact of paraprofessionals on SUD recovery outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intergenerational activities have many benefits for older adults and adolescents. The present study describes an intergenerational activity involving older adults and high school students co-producing a video of an experience that was meaningful to residents of a nearby aged care residence. Over two weeks, 2–4 students co-designed an engaging video with 1–2 residents, culminating in a final session where both residents and students stationary cycled while viewing the video. Valuable lessons about the complexity of the activity, materials needed, timing and locations of some activities, and the length of the program will inform a larger trial of the program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Fairness and justice in language testing: The challenge of Tim McNamara's legacy" in Language Testing pays tribute to Tim McNamara's significant contributions to the field of language testing and assessment. It highlights his work on the tension between fairness and justice in language testing, emphasizing the social dimensions of language constructs. The article showcases Tim's scholarship in areas such as Rasch measurement and specific-purpose language testing, illustrating his interdisciplinary approach and enduring impact on the field. Through selected papers, the article demonstrates the ongoing relevance and challenges posed by Tim's work, encouraging readers to engage with his legacy in language testing. [Extracted from the article]

This study examined how habitat and resource conditions influence the foraging behaviour and ecology of the Pale (Pallid) Flycatcher Agricola pallidus and Marico Flycatcher Bradornis mariquensis, two perch-and-pounce insectivores that swoop on prey from elevated perches. These species were studied in the early 1980s at the Nylsvley Nature Reserve in Limpopo Province, South Africa, where Marico Flycatchers occupied fine-leafed, spinescent Vachellia (Acacia) tortilis-dominated woodland, while Pale Flycatchers were confined to Burkea africana-dominated mesophyll woodland. These two woodland types correspond to two contrasting savanna types across Africa more broadly: arid-eutrophic, fine-leafed savannas and mesic/moist-dystrophic, broad-leafed woodlands. Their juxtaposition at the Nylsvley Reserve provided an opportunity to explore the factors affecting the habitat preferences and foraging behaviour of these two species. Acacia woodlands had higher invertebrate abundance, at least on the ground, and lower groundcover than Burkea woodlands in both seasons, although the difference was less during the dry season. Throughout the year, Marico Flycatchers consistently foraged at a faster rate, pouncing more frequently and more successfully on prey than did Pale Flycatchers. They also spent less time searching from each perch and gave up sooner if they found nothing. The average time difference between successful and unsuccessful searches was only a few seconds for both species, however. Presumably because they occupied a less productive woodland, Pale Flycatchers had considerably larger home ranges and occurred at lower densities overall, and so experienced fewer intraspecific and interspecific interactions. In contrast, Marico Flycatchers faced more competition both intra- and interspecifically, especially in the dry season when prey was scarce; they lost most of their conflicts, all with larger birds. Habitat separation between these two flycatcher species is apparently maintained by the differences in habitat structure, resource availability and occasional interspecific interactions, in which Marico Flycatchers dominated Pale Flycatchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pressure–volume equations of state of palladium and rhodium statically compressed in neon are presented. Vinet fits give parameters for palladium: V 0 = 58.678 (73) Å 3 , B 0 = 189.3 (30) GPa, B 0 ′ = 5.473 (63) , and rhodium: V 0 = 55.062 (63) Å 3 , B 0 = 241.3 (65) GPa, B 0 ′ = 5.34 (24). Both metals are observed to react with hydrocarbons under pressure to form hydrides. Existing equations of state are discussed with regard to potential inadvertent hydrogen contamination as a source for discrepancies and anomalous fitted parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Two studies were conducted assessing the efficacy of NexGard® PLUS (NP) in preventing heartworm disease. Study 1 evaluated the efficacy of six monthly doses of NP or Simparica Trio® (ST) against a macrocyclic lactone-resistant isolate of heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis, and study 2 evaluated the efficacy of a single dose of NP against a susceptible isolate. Methods: In two studies, dogs that were negative for heartworms by antigen test and modified Knott's test were used. In study 1, dogs were randomly allocated into three treatment groups (n = 6/group): negative control, NP per label instructions, and ST per label instructions. Dogs were inoculated with 50 third-stage D. immitis larvae (JYD-34 isolate) on day −30. NP and ST were administered orally on days 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150. A necropsy was performed on day 180 for adult heartworm recovery. In study 2, dogs were randomly allocated into two treatment groups (n = 10/group): negative control and NP. Dogs were inoculated with 50 third-stage larvae (SC-20 isolate) on day −30. NP was administered orally once on day 0 to target the minimum moxidectin label dose. A necropsy was performed on day 120 for adult heartworm recovery. Results: For study 1, all control dogs had adult heartworms at necropsy (geometric mean, 39.7; range, 28–48). Two of the NP-treated dogs had one live worm, and one of the ST-treated dogs had one live worm. Both treated groups were significantly different from the control group with an efficacy of 99.5% for NP and 99.8% for ST (P < 0.0001). There was no significant difference (P = 0.8797) between the groups treated with NP and ST. For study 2, all control dogs had adult heartworms (geometric mean, 34.5; range 26–43). None of the dogs treated with NP had live adult worms (efficacy of 100%, P < 0.0001). Conclusions: The results of study 1 demonstrated that NexGard® PLUS and Simparica Trio® administered at the label dose provided comparable efficacy against a macrocyclic lactone-resistant isolate of D. immitis. The results of study 2 demonstrated that NexGard® PLUS administered once near the minimum label dose was 100% effective against a susceptible isolate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a case report of fatal thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) during induction therapy for acute myeloid leukemia in a patient with germline GATA2 haploinsufficiency. The patient experienced severe complications, including hemorrhages and organ dysfunction, leading to her demise. The article highlights the role of GATA2 in maintaining healthy endothelial function and the relatively uncommon vascular manifestations of GATA2 deficiency, such as thrombosis. The study emphasizes the need for further research to understand and mitigate the risk of catastrophic complications in patients with GATA2 deficiency undergoing intensive chemotherapy. [Extracted from the article]

Dyarubbin (also known as the Hawkesbury-Nepean River) is an urban river, which has been cared for by Darug custodians for millennia and has, in recent years, experienced substantial change through new plans and developments. This paper contributes to crafting an understanding of contested Dyarubbin, drawing on qualitative research completed in 2021 which included a survey, document analysis and semi-structured interviews, to discuss how the historicisation of Indigenous water values in 'Our River' marginalises Dyarubbin's place as (part of) Darug Country. The paper discusses how the marginalisation and historicisation of Indigenous water values can be read as water colonialism in an urban setting. By building on recent research in the area of water justice, the paper illustrates how planning initiatives have so far persistently failed to incorporate Indigenous water values. While water colonialism in early settler colonial Australia and rural Australia has been well established, the paper provides insight into how such practices endure in urban planning practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lexicon projects (LPs) are large-scale data resources in different languages that present behavioral results from visual word recognition tasks. Analyses using LP data in multiple languages provide evidence regarding cross-linguistic differences as well as similarities in visual word recognition. Here we present the first LP in a Semitic language—the Hebrew Lexicon Project (HeLP). HeLP assembled lexical decision (LD) responses to 10,000 Hebrew words and nonwords, and naming responses to a subset of 5000 Hebrew words. We used the large-scale HeLP data to estimate the impact of general predictors (lexicality, frequency, word length, orthographic neighborhood density), and Hebrew-specific predictors (Semitic structure, presence of clitics, phonological entropy) of visual word recognition performance. Our results revealed the typical effects of lexicality and frequency obtained in many languages, but more complex impact of word length and neighborhood density. Considering Hebrew-specific characteristics, HeLP data revealed better recognition of words with a Semitic structure than words that do not conform to it, and a drop in performance for words comprising clitics. These effects varied, however, across LD and naming tasks. Lastly, a significant inhibitory effect of phonological ambiguity was found in both naming and LD. The implications of these findings for understanding reading in a Semitic language are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trauma-related beliefs are theorized to contribute to the development and maintenance of psychosis symptoms. However, the evidence for this proposal has yet to be systematically reviewed. This article is the first to synthesize and meta-analyze studies examining associations between trauma-related beliefs and psychosis symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and negative symptoms. A systematic database search of Medline, PsychINFO, Embase, Web of Science, CINHAL, and Cochrane identified a total of 15 articles that met the inclusion criteria for systematic review and 11 articles which met the inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. Separate random-effects meta-analyses were conducted for each psychosis symptom. Meta-analytic findings demonstrated a small to moderate association between trauma-related beliefs and hallucination severity (k = 7, r = 0.25, 95% CI 0.10–0.39), a moderate to large association with delusion severity (k = 8, r = 0.43, 95% CI 0.31–0.54), and large association with paranoia severity (k = 4, r = 0.58, 95% CI 0.49–0.66). Narrative synthesis findings indicate that evidence for an association between negative symptoms and trauma-related beliefs was inconclusive. The meta-analytic findings provide support for an association between trauma-related beliefs and positive psychosis symptoms. This provides evidence suggesting trauma therapies for psychosis that target these beliefs may improve distressing psychosis. However, further research adopting longitudinal designs and controlling for confounders is required to better establish causality, including mediation analysis of therapy trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The impact of chronic oral anticoagulant (OACs) use on long‐term post‐discharge outcomes after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) hospitalisation remains unclear. Herein, we compared clinical outcomes up to 2‐years after COVID‐19 hospitalisation between patients on vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), direct‐acting OACs (DOACs) and no OAC therapy. Methods: Data from TriNetX, a global federated health research network, were used. Adult patients on VKAs, DOACs or no OAC therapy at diagnosis of COVID‐19 between 20 January 2020 and 31 December 2021, who were hospitalised for COVID‐19, were included. The primary outcomes were all‐cause mortality, ischaemic stroke/transient ischaemic attack (TIA)/systemic embolism (SE) and the composite of intracranial haemorrhage (ICH)/gastrointestinal bleeding, at 2 years after COVID‐19 hospitalisation. Results: We included 110,834 patients with COVID‐19. Following propensity score matching (PSM), we identified a decreased mortality risk in DOAC‐treated patients compared to the no OAC cohort (RR.808, 95% CI.751–.870). A higher risk of ischaemic stroke/TIA/SE was observed in VKA users compared to DOAC users (RR 1.100, 95% CI 1.020–1.220) and in VKA users compared to patients not taking OAC (RR 1.400, 95% CI 1.140–1.720). VKA use was associated with a greater risk of ICH/gastrointestinal bleeding than DOAC users (RR 1.198, 95% CI 1.066–1.347), while DOAC users had a lower risk compared to no OAC‐treated patients (RR.840, 95% CI.754–.936). Conclusion: COVID‐19 patients taking prior DOACs were associated with lower long‐term mortality risk and ICH/gastrointestinal bleeding than patients not taking OAC. Compared to patients on DOACs, VKA users were associated with higher risks of mortality, ischaemic stroke/TIA/SE and ICH/gastrointestinal bleeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community outreach and the integration of cultural competencies are essential to the education and development of healthcare professionals. This article describes incorporating service-learning into a course at the University of Detroit Mercy, a Jesuit and Mercy institution, as a method of building cultural competency into a Physician Assistant (PA) curriculum. The project examined how service-learning impacted students' understanding of community needs and allowed students to reflect on their values. In addition, it aimed to inspire students to build connections with vulnerable populations and have concern for the poor and marginalized. Students participated in service opportunities with a community partner to identify and meet the needs of the homeless population. Students completed pre- and post-surveys and a reflection paper based on their experiences. The survey response analysis supported the growth in students' leadership competencies related to empathy, productive relationships, empowerment of others, and promoting diversity. Student reflection papers revealed positive responses in the themes of compassion through service, developing relationships, common purpose, engagement with diverse communities and population needs. Experiences with service-learning allow future healthcare professionals to better understand diverse and vulnerable populations while becoming compassionate leaders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Visual processing deficits arising in dementia are associated with particular functional disability. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the built environment on mobility and navigation in people with dementia-related visual loss. Methods: Participants with posterior cortical atrophy (PCA; "visual-variant Alzheimer's"; n = 11), typical Alzheimer's disease (tAD; N = 10), and controls (n = 13) repeatedly walked down routes within a simplified real-world setting. Participant groups were of comparable age and gender. Routes were of different complexity (straight, U-shaped, and S-shaped), overhead lighting levels (low and high) and with or without a dynamic LED (light-emitting diode) cue (trial n = 24). Ratios of walking times for each experimental condition (each complex route vs the straight route, high lighting vs low, and LED cue vs no cue) were compared between participant groups. Kinematic measures were produced from a total of 10,813 steps using wearable inertial measurement units (IMUs). Results: The walking time ratios relating to route complexity were higher in the PCA group than in controls: 30.3% (95% CI [13.5%, 49.5%] higher for U-shaped vs straight and 31.9% [21.1%, 55.3%] for S-shaped vs straight, averaged over other conditions). The analogous results relating to route complexity for the tAD group were intermediate between those for the PCA and control groups. There was no evidence that walking time ratios differed according to lighting level or the presence of the LED cue. Conclusions: Findings contribute to evidence-based design for dementia-friendly environments, emphasizing consequences of environmental complexity for functional independence and mobility in people with dementia-related visual loss. Findings inform recommendations for environmental design to support the independence of individuals with dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects over 1% of population over age 60. It is defined by motor and nonmotor symptoms including a spectrum of cognitive impairments known as Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD). Currently, the only US Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment for PDD is rivastigmine, which inhibits acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase increasing the level of acetylcholine in the brain. Due to its limited efficacy and side effect profile, rivastigmine is often not prescribed, leaving patients with no treatment options. PD has several derangements in neurotransmitter pathways (dopaminergic neurons in the nigrostriatal pathway, kynurenine pathway (KP), acetylcholine, α7 nicotinic receptor, and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors) and rivastigmine is only partially effective as it only targets one pathway. Kynurenic acid (KYNA), a metabolite of tryptophan metabolism, affects the pathophysiology of PDD in multiple ways. Both galantamine (α7 nicotinic receptor) and memantine (antagonist of the NMDA subtype of the glutamate receptor) are KYNA modulators. When used in combination, they target multiple pathways. While randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with each drug alone for PD have failed, the combination of galantamine and memantine has demonstrated a synergistic effect on cognitive enhancement in animal models. It has therapeutic potential that has not been adequately assessed, warranting future randomized controlled trials. In this review, we summarize the KYNA-centric model for PD pathophysiology and discuss how this treatment combination is promising in improving cognitive function in patients with PDD through its action on KYNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal self‐efficacy during infancy is shaped by many factors, including maternal mental health and social support. This study examines how depression, emotional support, and childcare support relate to maternal self‐efficacy among mothers of infants in rural Pakistan. Participants included 885 mothers assessed at 3 and 6 months postpartum. At 3 months postpartum, mothers completed interview measures of depression, emotional social support, support with day‐to‐day childcare tasks (daily childcare support), and childcare support when they were unable to care for their child (childcare support when needed). At 6 months postpartum, participants reported on maternal self‐efficacy. Generalized estimating equations were used to test the associations between depression and social support at 3 months and maternal self‐efficacy at 6 months, as well as the interaction between depression and social support. Depression at 3 months was not associated with maternal self‐efficacy at 6 months when controlling for depression at 6 months. Emotional support was associated with increased self‐efficacy, but daily childcare support was not. We found weak evidence that childcare support when needed was associated with increased self‐efficacy only among mothers with depression. Results suggest that emotional support and childcare support when needed may be helpful for promoting mothers’ self‐efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Menopause can be seen as a complex phenomenon influenced by an individual's cultural norms, belief systems, and lifestyle choices. In conservative societies such as Saudi Arabia, some women silently struggle with menopause due to cultural taboos and social stigma, making their experiences invisible and lowering their quality of life. The aim of this study was to explore in-depth the knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of middle-aged Saudi women with menopause. Methods: The study employed qualitative methods using semi-structured interviews with middle-aged women undergoing menopause in Saudi Arabia from February to May 2023. The interviews were conducted online in Arabic, recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. Results: A total of twenty-nine women, aged 40–64 years, were interviewed. Three key themes were identified: mixed emotions towards menopause; experiencing biopsychosocial changes; and adapting to the transition. Overall, most participants had mixed perspectives on menopause. Negative aspects included feelings of uncertainty and the loss of fertility while positive aspects included a sense of relief from menstruation and the newfound freedom to engage in religious activities at any time. Notably, during the interviews, many participants reconsidered their initial negative views and voiced predominantly positive perspectives. Several women reported inconvenient menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, disturbed sleep, and fatigue. Concerns about being perceived as less attractive led many to keep their symptoms private, and societal expectations played a significant role in influencing how women managed these symptoms and sought help. Many women opted to seek information discreetly online rather than seeking support from others. Self-care practices were favoured for managing menopause, with medical care being undervalued or at times deemed unsatisfactory. Conclusion: In Saudi Arabia, menopause is generally seen as a natural phase of life. Many women appreciate the positive aspects it brings, such as relief from menstrual pain and an enhanced ability to participate in religious practices. However, they also encounter challenges, including hot flashes and concerns about perceived decreases in attractiveness. A notable trend is the preference for self-care strategies over medical interventions or hormone replacement therapy (HRT). There is a need to raise awareness about menopausal symptoms to reduce negative perceptions and experiences and to develop health promotion and educational interventions to support and empower women during this transition. Future research with healthcare professionals would extend these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The letter published in the Journal of Clinical Immunology discusses Vici Syndrome, a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the EPG5 gene. The syndrome is characterized by various symptoms, including immune deficiency, cardiomyopathy, and hypopigmentation. The letter reports on three patients with Vici Syndrome who presented with inflammatory bowel disease and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, expanding the understanding of immune dysregulation in this population. The study highlights the importance of evaluating patients with Vici Syndrome for immune deficiency and hyperinflammatory states, emphasizing the need for further research on the role of EPG5 in immune regulation. [Extracted from the article]

As PhD candidates of geography and planning, we engage in a collaborative autoethnography to reflect on our experiences during a writing retreat. We explore the significance of material and immaterial spaces of the retreat and how these spaces impacted our academic writing. We emphasise the value of a collaborative and supportive learning environment that challenges the productivity-driven, neoliberal narrative imbued in academic writing. Drawing on our personal reflections of the retreat, we illustrate how writing retreats foster a "space" of support, facilitate academic writing competence, and expose participants to new avenues of learning. Using a grounded theory approach, we draw on Donna Haraway's situated knowledges as well as and Dooren Massey's theorisation on space, to examine our individual reflections and collectively discuss the intricate relationship between solitude and productivity in academic writing. Our findings delve into diverse experiences of material space (physical) and immaterial space (psychological and imaginative), as well as the negotiation of solitude-togetherness and speed-slowness interface within the retreat context. We argue for rethinking the notion of a retreat, envisioning it as a space that challenges the norms of academic productivity and fosters a more caring and interconnected approach to scholarly writing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antimicrobial autoantigenic glycoprotein 2 (GP2) is an important component of the innate immune system which originates from the exocrine pancreas as well as from the small intestines. The relationship of GP2 with the intestinal microbiome as well as the systemic implications of increased fecal GP2 levels are, however, still unclear. Therefore, fecal samples from 2,812 individuals of the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP) were collected to determine GP2 levels (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and gut microbiota profiles (16 S rRNA gene sequencing). These data were correlated and associated with highly standardised and comprehensive phenotypic data of the study participants. Results: Fecal GP2 levels were increased in individuals with higher body mass index and smokers, whereas lower levels were found in case of preserved exocrine pancreatic function, female sex or a healthier diet. Moreover, higher GP2 levels were associated with increased serum levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, loss of gut microbial diversity and an increase of potentially detrimental bacteria (Streptococcus, Haemophilus, Clostridium XIVa, or Collinsella). At the same time, predicted microbial pathways for the biosynthesis of beneficial short-chain fatty acids or lactic acid were depleted in individuals with high fecal GP2. Of note, GP2 exhibited a stronger association to overall microbiome variation than calprotectin. Conclusion: Fecal GP2 is a biomarker of gut microbiota dysbiosis and associated with increased systemic inflammation. The intestines may be more important as origin for GP2 than pancreatic acinar cells. Future studies need to investigate the potential clinical value in disease specific patient cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Despite policies setting a minimum legal sales age, youth continue to access electronic cigarettes (ECs). Evidence of rising youth vaping prevalence in many countries suggests existing measures have serious loopholes and raise important questions about how youth source vaping products. Aims and Methods We explored how youth source ECs using in-depth interviews with 30 adolescents aged 16–17 who vaped at least once a month and lived in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our semistructured interview guide probed participants' vaping experiences and how they developed and used social, quasi-commercial, and commercial supply routes to access ECs. We used an inductive reflexive thematic analysis approach to interpret the data. Results Nearly all participants shared ECs with peers and sharing was the sole access route for some. Many used proxies, often older relatives or people they knew socially, to purchase ECs on their behalf; however, others recruited proxies by approaching previously unknown people they identified on social media. Participants also sourced ECs via quasi-commercial networks that existed within schools and on social media, and some purchased in their own right, usually from smaller retail outlets that did not ask for ID. Conclusions Disrupting social supply will be challenging, though reducing ECs' availability, appeal, and affordability could make social supply, including sharing and proxy purchasing, more difficult. Reports that youth purchase ECs from commercial retailers known to waive age verification suggest stronger monitoring and enforcement, along with escalating retailer penalties, are required. Implications Vaping access routes sit on a continuum from informal, spontaneous sharing to carefully planned commercial purchases. While supply via friends, siblings and other social contacts is an important means of access, nicotine dependence drives some to use riskier access routes, including approaching unknown people to act as proxy purchasers. Evidence young people identify noncompliant retailers suggests policy makers should monitor and enforce existing measures more stringently and consider additional penalties for recidivist underage suppliers. A more comprehensive response that reduces the appeal, addictiveness, affordability, and availability of vaping products would address factors fostering and maintaining youth vaping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A polyvalent blood collection tube could potentially reduce the number and volume of blood samples drawn from patients and reduce the risk of tube mix‐ups in a point‐of‐care setting in the emergency department and the intensive care unit. Methods: Four different concentrations of our experimental heparin anticoagulant with iloprost additive (HEP‐ILOP 50 nM, 150 nM, 1000 nM, and 10 μM, respectively) were tested for significant differences and bias performance specifications against EDTA for 29 hematology analytes, and the highest concentration (HEP‐ILOP 10 μM) against lithium heparin for 14 chemistry and immunochemistry analytes. Samples were drawn from 79 consenting subjects from the Oncology Department (n = 38) and the Intensive and Intermediary Care Unit (n = 41). Results: For hematology analytes, the HEP‐ILOP formulation generally provided stable measurement within optimal requirements within 5 h after sampling (mean 104 ± 56 min), with very little difference between the four HEP‐ILOP concentrations. Because of differences in platelet and red blood cell swelling between EDTA and HEP‐ILOP, all size‐dependent analytes required proportional factorization to produce similar results. Platelet count by impedance similarly required factorization, whereas the fluorescent method provided results identical with EDTA. Chemistry and immunochemistry analytes were within optimal requirements except for potassium, lactate dehydrogenase, and glucose, indicating a cytoprotective effect of iloprost reducing cell metabolism and rupture, thereby producing results closer to in vivo conditions. Conclusions: Our novel dry‐sprayed anticoagulant formulation, HEP‐ILOP, is a promising candidate for a polyvalent blood collection tube, enabling the analysis of hematology, chemistry, and immunochemistry analytes in the same tube. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How does the work of art mediate the recognitions we give one another in a rights-based order when that order cannot guarantee the rights it promises? What does an account of the open-ended, norm-mediating, performative and socio-aesthetic complexity of the work of art offer this 'After Rights?' inquiry? In addressing these questions, I draw on the insights of Jacques Ranciere, Fiona Jenkins, Jean Luc Nancy, Judith Butler, and Sylviya Lechner and Mervyn Frost to argue that the work of art, as a creative and interpretive aesthetic locus, ethically constitutes its practitioners (artists and audiences) as participants in an open-ended norm-mediating risk relation. The argument is that the work of art is an encounter-event practice for performing our commonality beyond power, violence, hierarchy, reason, and rights – even as that work also lends itself, as a beside-rights practice, to the mediation of hidden and discriminatory rights-abusing practices and norms. I do so via a consideration of the work of South African artists which mediate and contest misogynistic, heteronormative and racist discriminations beside and beyond the rights guarantees of the 1996 South African Constitution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Suicide Cognitions Scale–Revised (SCS-R) is a unidimensional measure of suicidal cognitions theorized to assess the suicide belief system. Several solutions have been proposed for the Suicide Cognitions Scale and SCS-R (e.g., bifactor model with two specific factors, bifactor model with two specific factors, three correlated factors model). Research indicates the endorsement of thoughts of suicide and suicide-related cognitions varies across demographics. Thus, the current investigation tested the measurement invariance (MI) of the SCS-R across gender, race, and sexual orientation within these proposed solutions and a unidimensional model. A national sample of N = 10,625 adults completed an online survey that included the SCS-R and self-report measures of demographics. Results indicated that the bifactor model with three specific factors, the bifactor model with two specific factors, and the three correlated factors models achieved scalar invariance across gender, race, and sexual orientation; a unidimensional model was not scalar invariant by gender. Tests of latent mean differences revealed significant differences in the general factor (i.e., suicidal belief system) and the specific unlovability, unbearability, and unsolvability factors between a few demographic groups. Implications for theory, measurement, and modeling are discussed. Public Significance Statement: The Suicide Cognitions Scale–Revised is an instrument that measures the suicidal belief system, evinces measurement invariance, and is strongly related to and is predictive of other thoughts and behaviors on the suicide spectrum. Instruments that are measurement invariance for diverse groups of people ensure confident score comparisons between groups and equitable clinical decision making across mental health care systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although there is growing interest in telehealth to deliver parent-mediated intervention for autistic children, empirical evaluations are limited, and little is known regarding the relative benefits of self-directed and therapist-assisted telehealth interventions. This study examined the effect of self-directed and therapist-assisted ImPACT Online on parent learning and well-being, moderators of treatment, and predictors of program engagement. Method: Sixty-four young autistic children and their primary caregiver participated. Children were matched on age and developmental quotient and randomly assigned to a therapist-assisted, self-directed, or resource support control group. Participants were assessed at intake, after 6 months (post), and at a 3-month follow-up. Results: There was a significant treatment effect for parent learning for the therapist-assisted but not self-directed program; when analysis was limited to parents who completed the program, treatment effects were observed for both groups. There were no treatment effects for parent self-efficacy or parenting stress; however, there was an effect on parents' perception of their child's positive impact. Parenting stress did not moderate the effect of group on parent outcomes. Parent age, program satisfaction, and therapist assistance were all significant predictors of parent program engagement. Conclusion: This study supports the efficacy of therapist-assisted telehealth parent-mediated intervention for teaching parents intervention strategies to support their child's social communication and improving their perceptions of their child's positive impact, and suggests that self-directed programs may be beneficial for parents who fully engage with the program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leveraging the simplicity of nucleotide mismatch distributions, we provide an intuitive window into the evolution of the human influenza A 'nonstructural' (NS) gene segment. In an analysis suggested by the eminent Danish biologist Freddy B. Christiansen, we illustrate the existence of a continuous genetic "backbone" of influenza A NS sequences, steadily increasing in nucleotide distance to the 1918 root over more than a century. The 2009 influenza A/H1N1 pandemic represents a clear departure from this enduring genetic backbone. Utilizing nucleotide distance maps and phylogenetic analyses, we illustrate remaining uncertainties regarding the origin of the 2009 pandemic, highlighting the complexity of influenza evolution. The NS segment is interesting precisely because it experiences less pervasive positive selection, and departs less strongly from neutral evolution than e.g. the HA antigen. Consequently, sudden deviations from neutral diversification can indicate changes in other genes via the hitchhiking effect. Our approach employs two measures based on nucleotide mismatch counts to analyze the evolutionary dynamics of the NS gene segment. The rooted Hamming map of distances between a reference sequence and all other sequences over time, and the unrooted temporal Hamming distribution which captures the distribution of genotypic distances between simultaneously circulating viruses, thereby revealing patterns of nucleotide diversity and epi-evolutionary dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Observations of seismic waves that have passed through the Earth's lowermost mantle provide insight into deep mantle structure and dynamics, often on relatively small spatial scales. Here we use SKS, S2KS, S3KS, and PKS signals recorded across a large region including the United States, Mexico, and Central America to study the deepest mantle beneath large swaths of North America and the northeastern Pacific Ocean. These phases are enhanced via beamforming and then used to investigate polarization‐ and propagation direction‐dependent shear wave speeds (seismic anisotropy). A differential splitting approach enables us to robustly identify contributions from D″ ${\mathrm{D}}^{{\prime\prime}}$ anisotropy. Our results show strong seismic anisotropy in approximately half of our study region, indicating that D″ ${\mathrm{D}}^{{\prime\prime}}$ anisotropy may be more prevalent than commonly thought. In some regions, the anisotropy may be induced by flow driven by sinking cold slabs, and in other, more compact regions, by upwelling flow. Measured splitting due to lowermost mantle anisotropy is sufficiently strong to be non‐negligible in interpretations of SKS splitting due to upper mantle anisotropy in certain regions, which may prompt future re‐evaluations of upper mantle anisotropy beneath North and Central America. Plain Language Summary: Earthquakes emit seismic waves that travel through Earth's deep interior. In some parts of Earth, the speed of these waves depends on their vibrational directions. In these cases, the material they travel through can be described as seismically anisotropic. Such seismic anisotropy is often caused by material deformation due to convective flow in Earth's interior. We show in this work that Earth's mantle beneath North America and the northeastern Pacific Ocean is seismically anisotropic in many places just above its boundary with the core at a depth of ∼2900km ${\sim} 2900\,\text{km}$. In some of these places, the deformation may be caused by sinking subducted slabs, upwelling flow, or changes in horizontal flow at the mantle's lower boundary layer. We additionally show that potential contributions from the lowermost mantle anisotropy cannot always be neglected when measuring seismic anisotropy in other parts of the mantle. Key Points: We infer D″ ${\mathrm{D}}^{{\prime\prime}}$ seismic anisotropy beneath North America and parts of the Pacific Ocean from beamformed SKS, S2KS, S3KS, and PKS dataWe find widespread seismic anisotropy in the deepest mantle, likely induced by a variety of different convective flow regimesThe influence of the deepest mantle on SKS (usually used to infer upper mantle anisotropy) is non‐negligible in some regions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundAimsMethodsResultsConclusionAnxiety symptoms and disorders are common in the UK. Whilst waiting for, or alongside, treatments such as anxiolytics or psychological therapies, people often self-manage anxiety symptoms with products purchased over-the-counter (OTC), such as herbal medicines or dietary supplements. However, the evidence for these products is often presented across different reviews and is not easy for patients or healthcare professionals to compare and understand.To determine the nature and size of the evidence base available for these products.A scoping review. CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycInfo, and AMED (inception—Dec 2022) were searched for RCTs assessing OTC products in people aged 18–60 with symptoms or a diagnosis of anxiety.In total 69 papers assessing a range of products were found, which mostly focussed on kava, lavender, saffron, probiotics, Galphimia glauca and valerian. Studies used varying dosages. Compared to herbal medicine studies, there were much fewer dietary supplement studies and homeopathic remedy studies, despite some of use of these by the general public.Future research needs to investigate commonly used but less evaluated products (e.g. chamomile, St John’s Wort) and to evaluate products against or alongside conventional treatments to better reflect patient decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an urgent need to identify new antiferromagnetic materials that offer a replacement for IrMn alloys for room temperature and above applications. This is driven by the scarcity and high cost of Ir. Recently, MnN with {002} texture grown on a Ta seed layer has been proposed as a cost-effective alternative. However, two key issues need to be addressed before this material can be considered a realistic alternative to IrMn: thick layers of approximately 30 nm are required due to its relatively low magnetocrystalline anisotropy and nitrogen diffusion into the Ta layer at relatively low temperatures results in poor temperature performance. In this work, we show a potential pathway to overcome these issues. By using a W rather than a Ta seed layer, N diffusion is minimized, if not eliminated, at temperatures exceeding 300 ∘ C . Furthermore, preferential {111} growth is achieved and a significantly enhanced anisotropy, 2.6 · 10 6 erg / cm 3 , has been measured. This value is almost identical to that measured for 3D randomly oriented IrMn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions Empirically supported suicide risk assessment and conceptualization is a central aim of the Zero Suicide model. The Suicide Status Form (SSF) is the essential document and scaffolding of the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality—Brief Intervention (CAMS‐BI) and is hypothesized as an example of a psychological assessment as therapeutic intervention (PATI). However, this hypothesis has never been directly tested.N = 57 patients deemed at risk for outpatient suicidal behavior and treated as part of an inpatient psychiatric consultation and liaison service were recruited to participate in CAMS‐BI at a Level 1 trauma center in the southeastern United States. During the CAMS‐BI process, patients were asked to rate their subjective units of distress (SUDS) at five time points throughout the intervention (k = 285).The omnibus random intercept multilevel model revealed a significant difference in pre‐ to post‐session ratings of SUDS across patients. Post hoc pairwise comparisons revealed no significant differences between SSF sections (e.g., Section A, Section B, and Section C) and relative reductions in SUDS; however, there was an observable trend toward a favorable effect of Section A of the SSF.The SSF may represent an example of PATI pending replication and extension of the current results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seventy-eight officers held senior command positions at army, corps, and divisional level in Britain’s three main field armies – the Second (North-West Europe), Eighth (Italy), and Fourteenth (Burma) – at the end of the Second World War. Using a range of source material, including their private papers, this article examines their socio-economic and family background, education, and early career development and finds that as a group, they were more representative of the middling classes than heretofore depicted. They were also far more diverse in education and place of birth: twenty-one were born outside Britain. As this article argues, the make-up of the three armies also differed, suggesting the formation of a more elite, home-grown, ‘first team’ for service with the Second Army in North-West Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver grafts from controlled donation after circulatory death (cDCD) donors have lower utilization rates due to inferior graft and patient survival rates, largely attributable to the increased incidence of ischemic cholangiopathy, when compared with grafts from brain dead donors (DBD). Normothermic regional perfusion (NRP) may improve the quality of cDCD livers to allow for expansion of the donor pool, helping to alleviate the shortage of transplantable grafts. A systematic review and metanalysis was conducted comparing NRP cDCD livers with both non-NRP cDCD livers and DBD livers. In comparison to non-NRP cDCD outcomes, NRP cDCD grafts had lower rates of ischemic cholangiopathy [RR = 0.23, 95% CI (0.11, 0.49), p = 0.0002], primary non-function [RR = 0.51, 95% CI (0.27, 0.97), p = 0.04], and recipient death [HR = 0.5, 95% CI (0.36, 0.69), p < 0.0001]. There was no difference in outcomes between NRP cDCD donation compared to DBD liver donation. In conclusion, NRP improved the quality of cDCD livers compared to their non-NRP counterparts. NRP cDCD livers had similar outcomes to DBD grafts. This provides further evidence supporting the continued use of NRP in cDCD liver transplantation and offers weight to proposals for its more widespread adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reviews Catherine Rakow's book "Making Sense of Human Life: Murray Bowen's Determined Effort Toward Family Systems Theory," which explores Murray Bowen's work in developing family systems theory. The book delves into Bowen's methodology, including regression experiments with patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and alcoholism, highlighting the impact of family dynamics on mental health. Rakow's book provides valuable insights into Bowen's research and theories, making it a significant contribution to the study of family systems theory. [Extracted from the article]

Developing organizational strategic partnerships is important to advance initiatives such as research, training/education, and interprofessional collaboration (IPC) with a global perspective. Commitments to collaborative leadership, intentional partnership, coordination, and progress, thematically represent the series of critical decisions and actions collectively required to achieve strategic alliance success. The purpose of this paper is to describe the evidenced-informed framework and systematic processes involved in building successful strategic organizational and collaborative partnerships for InterprofessionalResearch.Global to expand and enhance opportunities for IPC on mutually beneficial initiatives. The conceptual model for effective collaborative partnerships by Butt et al. (2008) provided a framework for InterprofessionalResearch.Global to develop two strategic organizational partnerships consistent with its mission, vision, and goals to explore interprofessional research and policy gaps through global research partnerships, grow and sustain communities of practice, and mobilize evidence-informed interprofessional education and collaborative practice across multiple and diverse contexts. These organizational partnerships are defined by a Memorandum of Understanding with clear expectations and mechanisms of communication, defined priority areas and timelines for collaborative efforts, mutual understanding of the purposes of each relationship, and timeline and expectations for periodic evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The essay "From the Source to the Sea - A Regional Study on Bronze Age Deposits in Eastern Funen, Denmark" examines the relationship between Bronze Age deposits and their locations in the landscape. The study focuses on findings from previously little-explored sources and emphasizes the importance of a more differentiated examination of deposit locations outside of settlements. The distribution of findings shows a concentration along watercourses and near the coast. Water sources and wetlands were used as sites for ritual activities and depositions. The study emphasizes that deposits outside of settlements should be considered in order to gain a better understanding of Bronze Age societies. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on how natural theology influenced John Gardner Wilkinson's Egyptology, balancing Biblical views with emerging geological theories. It reexamines Wilkinson's scholarship, presenting him as someone who integrated religious and scientific perspectives, rather than adhering strictly to fundamentalist views.

The article "Ladies' Declaration of Independence, Litchfield, CT, 1839" by Ruth H. Frost explores the history of women's rights campaigns in Litchfield County, focusing on a parody document titled the Ladies' Declaration of Independence from July 4, 1839. The document, housed in the Woodruff Collection of the Litchfield Historical Society, critiques the power dynamics between men and women, echoing the structure of the original Declaration of Independence. While the Ladies' Declaration raises valid criticisms, it was not widely circulated and was likely intended for local amusement rather than as a serious call for change. The document reflects the social attitudes and traditions of early nineteenth-century July Fourth celebrations, where parodies of the Declaration of Independence were common. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Treatment of asymptomatic Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) presents a clinical challenge, requiring a delicate balance between rupture risk, patient comorbidities, and intervention-related complications. International guidelines recommend intervention for specific AAA size thresholds, but these are based on historical trials with limited female representation. We aimed to analyse disease characteristics, AAA size at rupture, and intervention outcomes in patients with ruptured AAA from 2009 to 2023 to investigate the gap between guidelines and local realities. Methods: This single-centre retrospective cohort study analysed electronic health records of patients treated for a ruptured AAA, excluding those who were managed palliatively. The study assessed patients' demographics, risk factors, comorbidities, clinical presentation, radiological characteristics, and outcomes. Results: Of 164 patients (41 females, 123 males, median age 73.5), 93.3% presented with abdominal or back pain. The median AAA size at rupture was 8.0 cm in males and 7.6 cm in females. No significant correlations were found between demographic characteristics, risk factors, AAA size, repair modality, and outcomes. Trends show a decline in AAA prevalence and rupture rates, aligning with global health initiatives. Post-intervention survival rates at 30 days were 70.7% (67.5% in males and 80.0% in females), and at 2 years were 65.85% (61.7% in males and 70.0% in females). Conclusion: Evolving AAA trends and improved post-intervention survival rates warrant a critical reassessment of existing intervention recommendations. Adjusting intervention thresholds to larger sizes may be justified to optimise the risk-benefit ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As an extension of the central nervous system (CNS), the retina shares many similarities with the brain and can manifest signs of various neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Objective: To investigate the retinal spectral features and develop a classification model to differentiate individuals with different brain amyloid levels. Methods: Sixty-six participants with varying brain amyloid-β protein levels were non-invasively imaged using a hyperspectral retinal camera in the wavelength range of 450–900 nm in 5 nm steps. Multiple retina features from the central and superior views were selected and analyzed to identify their variability among individuals with different brain amyloid loads. Results: The retinal reflectance spectra in the 450–585 nm wavelengths exhibited a significant difference in individuals with increasing brain amyloid. The retinal features in the superior view showed higher inter-subject variability. A classification model was trained to differentiate individuals with varying amyloid levels using the spectra of extracted retinal features. The performance of the spectral classification model was dependent upon retinal features and showed 0.758–0.879 accuracy, 0.718–0.909 sensitivity, 0.764–0.912 specificity, and 0.745–0.891 area under curve for the right eye. Conclusions: This study highlights the spectral variation of retinal features associated with brain amyloid loads. It also demonstrates the feasibility of the retinal hyperspectral imaging technique as a potential method to identify individuals in the preclinical phase of AD as an inexpensive alternative to brain imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We introduce a new Lie-algebraic approach to explicitly construct the motivic coaction and single-valued map of multiple polylogarithms in any number of variables. In both cases, the appearance of multiple zeta values is controlled by conjugating generating series of polylogarithms with Lie-algebra generators associated with odd zeta values. Our reformulation of earlier constructions of coactions and single-valued polylogarithms preserves choices of fibration bases, exposes the correlation between multiple zeta values of different depths and paves the way for generalizations beyond genus zero. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the provision of a mumps vaccination program in Canada for over three decades, mumps has not reached elimination. Instead, a re-emergence has been observed in vaccinated populations, particularly in young adults. These outbreaks have been almost exclusively due to genotype G infections, a trend that has been seen in other countries with high mumps vaccination rates. To characterize mumps outbreaks in Canada, genomes from samples from Manitoba (n = 209), Newfoundland (n = 25), and Nova Scotia (n = 48) were sequenced and analysed by Bayesian inference. Whole genome sequencing was shown to be highly discriminatory for outbreak investigations compared to traditional Sanger sequencing. The results showed that mumps virus genotype G most likely circulated endemically in Canada and between Canada and the US. Overall, this Canadian outbreak data from different provinces and ancestral strains demonstrates the benefits of molecular genomic data to better characterize mumps outbreaks, but also suggests genomics could further our understanding of the reasons for potential immune escape of mumps genotype G and evolution in highly vaccinated populations. With a possible endemic circulation of mumps genotype G and the remaining risk of new imported cases, increased surveillance and alternative vaccination strategies may be required for Canada to reach the current target for mumps or a future elimination status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]