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Forthcoming infrared event-based sensors will have utility in the space-based surveillance domain where they could potentially perform traditional sensing and tracking functions with significantly enhanced temporal resolution and reduced downstream datalink demands and power consumption. As a first step toward extending event-based sensing technology into the mid-wave infrared, a DC simulation of the conventional event-based sensor unit cell's photoreceptor circuit is performed, and the results are compared with measurements of a printed circuit board implementation of the same circuit to assess what design freedom is available to interface the photoreceptor with a mid-wave infrared photodetector. Detailed analysis of the circuit and measurements provides insight into which fundamental properties of the transistors drive the photoreceptor's dynamic range and demonstrates several characteristics that are relevant to mid-wave infrared sensing. These characteristics include the capability to produce a stable, low voltage bias on the infrared photodetector to maximize sensitivity, and that operating the circuit below room temperature increases the photoreceptor's dynamic range. Measurements show that even the simplest implementation of the photoreceptor circuit exhibits a dynamic range of logarithmic compression of 150 dB at room temperature. However, the dynamic range is ultimately limited by the mid-wave infrared photodetector's dark current activation energy, which is significantly lower than the threshold voltage (energy) of the photoreceptor's feedback transistor and, thus, there is an incentive for the photodetector's dark current to be diffusion-limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study tested competing theories about the effectiveness of different instructional sequences for learners with different levels of prior knowledge. Across two classroom experiments, undergraduates learned about noncovalent interactions in biochemistry by either receiving explicit instruction before problem-solving (I-PS group) or engaging in problem-solving before explicit instruction (PS-I group). Then all students completed near- and far-transfer tests on the material. In Experiment 1, participants were introductory biology students ( n = 367 ), who had relatively low prior knowledge of the topic. Results indicated that the PS-I group significantly outperformed the I-PS group on the near-transfer test, providing support for productive failure. In Experiment 2, participants were biochemistry students ( n = 138 ), who had relatively higher prior knowledge of the topic. In contrast to Experiment 1, results indicated that the I-PS group significantly outperformed the PS-I group, providing support for cognitive load theory. Neither experiment showed significant effects of instructional sequences on the far-transfer test. Overall, the findings suggest the effects of instructional sequences on students with different levels of topic-specific prior knowledge may not be as straightforward as existing theories suggest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NGOs are perceived as organisations that are always seeking funding. However, there are many instances where donations are refused by NGOs. This counter-intuitive decision, given the often grave humanitarian needs, is not well documented beyond brief references or individual cases. Refusal is an expression of values and principles, important for actors that are often portrayed as having little to no agency or power in relation to donors. We developed a database of 32 examples of funding refusals by NGOs detailing the reasons for refusal. To classify and compare the refusals, we developed a preliminary typology of NGO motivations for donor refusal, which contains four types (independence, impartiality, neutrality, and humanity) that align with humanitarian principles. Each category and type are defined and examples of each are provided. Given the focal nature of NGOs in development activity, the lack of attention to funding refusal is notable. We address this lacuna by creating a database and developing a preliminary typology to provide a foundation for future research. This study contributes a novel typology to an under-studied topic. In so doing, this paper provides a foundation for studies of refusal to follow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gender and sexuality are contentious political issues in the US, with a resurgence of traditional master narratives for gender following decades of advances for gender equality. To understand how today's LGBTQ+ youth navigate this narrative landscape in a polymedia context, we conducted social media tour interviews with 20 LGBTQ+ adolescents (aged 16–19), recording audiovisual data as they guided us through important posts on their top three public social media platforms. Through reflexive thematic analysis, we found that our participants were engaging with both longstanding master narratives (e.g., traditional gender roles) and contemporary alternative narratives (e.g., gender as non-binary) using three key navigational strategies for engaging with narratives on social media platforms: seeking and sharing information, creating queer community, and making choices about visibility and permanence. The meaning and purpose of these strategies for participants, both individually and collectively, could not be fully understood apart from three key navigational contexts : the traditional gender narrative, white liberal community context, and platform affordances. Our results demonstrate that narrative engagement for contemporary LGBTQ+ adolescents is deeply influenced by personal polymedia environments, identity intersections, and power structures shaping possibilities for individual identity expression and collective cultural transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Contact allergens typically trigger localised reactions, but systemic Type I hypersensitivity from skin contact reactions are rare. Case presentation: We present the case of a 69-year-old non-atopic male who developed anaphylaxis following the application of moisturizer to an area of chemical burns. Skin testing showed a strong positive result to moisturizer. Whilst not all ingredients were available for testing, phenoxyethanol was thought to be the likely culprit agent based on literature review and a weakly positive skin test result. Conclusion: Products such as moisturizers can rarely trigger anaphylaxis, especially when applied to damaged skin which may favor systemic absorption. This case highlights the need for careful consideration of cosmetic application when discerning culprit allergens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have been guiding global development agendas and shaping foreign aid priorities since 2015. While higher education is part of the broader agenda, the SDGs do not specify support for local systems and institutions in developing countries that require assistance. At the same time, the SDGs call for expansion of scholarship aid to enable citizens of developing countries to study in donor countries. Using the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s aid flows data and focusing on types of aid and recipient and donor trends, we analyse aid flows to higher education to assess if the focus on scholarships has had an impact on donors’ choices during the first seven years of the SDG implementation. The findings show that the SDGs have had a fundamental impact on bilateral donors’ choices regarding the types of aid provided to developing countries, leading to the expansion of scholarship aid and a decline in aid to local higher education. Additionally, most of the aid was provided to a limited number of countries, leaving many behind in the process. If these trends continue until 2030, the world will see further widening of global inequalities in higher education and development in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Identification of real-time adverse drug reactions [ADRs] (as opposed to the risk of ADRs) in older poly-medicated people in primary care is a challenging task, often undertaken without an explicit strategy. This systematic review aims to evaluate replicable instruments and methods for identifying and addressing ADRs. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane library, using controlled vocabulary (MeSH) and free-text terms. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) implementing strategies to identify or resolve ADRs experienced by patients in primary care were included. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Discrepancies were resolved by discussion. Results: From 2,182 unique records, 49 studies were identified for full review. Eight papers reporting results from 6 RCTs were included. All six trials utilised a list of medicine-related unwanted symptoms to identify ADRs. Two of three studies using adverse drug reaction questionnaires reported statistically significant increased rates of ADR reporting. Two of three studies that combined symptom questionnaires with prescriber consultations reported reductions in the number of health problems. Overall, results suggest that the three studies that described multidisciplinary collaborations using lists of ADRs plus prescriber reviews enhanced patient safety. However, the RCTs were unblinded and reported suboptimal retention. When considered as a whole, findings are equivocal and the data are too heterogenous to warrant any firm conclusions, beyond the need for more research to optimise strategies to safeguard patient wellbeing. Implications: Adaptable and scalable instruments with decision support are needed in primary care to identify and mitigate medicine-related harm in older poly-medicated people. The effectiveness of adverse drug reaction identification instruments, the value of comprehensive instruments, and the optimum method of delivery should be explored in multicentre trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Heat extraction from municipal solid waste landfills. • Coupled model in ATRT. • Thermal parameters deduced by field and numerical test. This study presents finite element method (FEM) modeling with COMSOL Multiphysics to estimate the thermal properties of a waste landfill through back-analysis of temperature responses from buried thermistors during a full-scale multi-week active thermal response test. Field tests were conducted at the Loraas MSW landfill in Saskatoon, Canada, using instrumented equipment, including a vertical borehole heat exchanger and thermistor strings. The test consisted of two phases: a heat injection test during the summer and a heat extraction test in the winter. The study focused on a landfill 25 m deep, observing temperature changes at various depths over time. The effect of heat generation rate (HGR) on landfill temperature was investigated. Thermal conductivity and volumetric heat capacity increase with depth, with close alignment between summer and winter results, validating the tests. This research enhances the understanding of thermal parameters in MSW landfills by combining field tests and numerical modeling, offering insights into landfill behavior in cold climates. These findings hold significance for optimizing geothermal energy recovery from such landfills, calibrating thermal parameters for coupled models in landfills, and improving waste management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BC is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. Cellular stress is a condition that leads to disrupted homeostasis by extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Among other stressors, hypoxia is a driving force for breast cancer (BC) progression and a general hallmark of solid tumors. Thus, intratumoral hypoxia is an important determinant of invasion, metastasis, treatment failure, prognosis, and patient mortality. Acquisition of the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype is also a consequence of tumor hypoxia. The cellular response to hypoxia is mainly regulated by the hypoxia signaling pathway, governed by hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), mainly HIF1α. HIFs are a family of transcription factors (TFs), which induce the expression of target genes involved in cell survival and proliferation, metabolic reprogramming, angiogenesis, resisting apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis. HIF1α cooperates with a large number of other TFs. In this review, we focused on the crosstalk and cooperation between HIF1α and other TFs involved in the cellular response to hypoxia in BC. We identified a cluster of TFs, proposed as the HIF1α-TF interactome, that orchestrates the transcription of target genes involved in hypoxia, due to their post-translational modifications (PTMs), including phosphorylation/dephosphorylation, ubiquitination/deubiquitination, SUMOylation, hydroxylation, acetylation, S-nitrosylation, and palmitoylation. PTMs of these HIF1α-related TFs drive their stability and activity, degradation and turnover, and the bidirectional translocation between the cytoplasm or plasma membrane and nucleus of BC cells, as well as the transcription/activation of proteins encoded by oncogenes or inactivation of tumor suppressor target genes. Consequently, PTMs of TFs in the HIF1α interactome are crucial regulatory mechanisms that drive the cellular response to oxygen deprivation in BC cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ubiquitin–proteasome-mediated proteolysis post-translationally regulates the amounts of many proteins that are critical for the normal physiology of the central nervous system. Research carried out over the last several years has revealed a role for components of the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway (UPP) in many neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease. Studies have also shown a role for the UPP in mental disorders such as schizophrenia and autism. Even though dysregulation of protein degradation by the UPP is a contributory factor to the pathology underlying many nervous system disorders, the association between the components of the UPP and these diseases is far from simple. In this review, we discuss the connections between the UPP and some of the major mental disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Many factors influence the development and establishment of the neonatal gut and upper-respiratory-tract microbiomes. Importantly, these microbiomes play a significant role in host maintenance and health physiologies in host–microbe systems. In dairy calf systems, the ecological factors impacting microbial assembly are not fully elucidated. Thus, the aim of this pilot study was to characterize the establishment of early-life fecal and nasal microbiomes in dairy calves and evaluate the impact of disease states on microbial development. In addition, we investigated the governing forces of microbial composition to better understand the factors that shape microbial community populations. Herein, we observed dynamic changes in diversity and composition in the neonatal calf microbiomes and demonstrated that disease state impacts the gastrointestinal microbiome. Our results further suggest that early-life microbiomes are stochastically driven, governed by neutral theory-based dynamics. These results together provide researchers with a roadmap to further investigate how early-life microbiomes develop and how they are affected by disease. Together, this study and future studies could help improve the quality of life in dairy calf management. The microbiome of dairy calves undergoes extensive change due to various forces during the first weeks of life. Importantly, diseases such as bovine respiratory disease (BRD) and calf diarrhea can have profound impacts on the early-life microbiome. Therefore, a longitudinal, repeated-measures pilot study was designed to characterize the establishment of nasal and fecal microbiomes of dairy calves, assess the governing forces of microbial assembly, and evaluate how disease states impact these microbial ecologies. Dairy calves (n = 19) were clinically evaluated for gastrointestinal and respiratory disease across three weeks beginning at age ≤ seven days old. Fecal (n = 57) and nasal (n = 57) microbial samples were taken for paired-end 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Taxonomy and diversity analyses were used to characterize early-life nasal and fecal microbiomes. Stochasticity and determinism were measured using normalized stochasticity testing (NST) and Dirichlet multinomial model (DMM). All analyses were tested for statistical significance. Clinical diarrhea was observed in 11 of the 19 calves. Clinical BRD was not independently observed among the cohort; however, two calves presented clinical signs of both BRD and diarrhea. Taxonomic analysis revealed that fecal samples were highlighted by Bacteroidaceae (40%; relative abundance), Ruminococcaceae (13%), and Lachnospiraceae (10%), with changes in diversity (Kruskal–Wallis; p < 0.05) and composition (PERMANOVA; p < 0.05). Clinical diarrhea reduced diversity in the fecal microbiome but did not impact composition. Nasal samples featured Moraxellaceae (49%), Mycoplasmataceae (16%), and Pasteurellaceae (3%). While no diversity changes were seen in nasal samples, compositional changes were observed (p < 0.05). NST metrics (Kruskal–Wallis; p > 0.01) and DMM (PERMANOVA; p < 0.01) revealed that stochastic, neutral theory-based assembly dynamics govern early-life microbial composition and that distinct microbial populations drive community composition in healthy and diarrheic calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, Indigenous languages face specific challenges to their revitalisation. In this article, I explore the ongoing barrier of settler colonialism to the revitalisation of te reo Māori (the Māori language). Through engaging in affective-discursive analysis of semi-structured interviews with twenty-two young Māori men, this article focuses on how young Māori take up or reject particular affective-discursive positions embedded in settler colonialism norms that discourage engaging with te reo Māori. I first explore how settler colonialism operates through the 'choice' to study (or not study) te reo Māori as an elective in English-medium schools. This analysis highlights how the 'choice' to not take the language is rooted settler colonial norms that frame te reo Māori negatively. Contexts that helped disrupt settler colonial attitudes about te reo Māori are then discussed. The roles of whānau (extended family), whānau-like collectives like kapa haka (Māori performing arts) groups, and conscientization are emphasised as formative to disrupting settler colonialism norms about te reo Māori. Lastly, I offer recommendations for te reo Māori language revitalisation, particularly as they relate to Māori youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma: A Case Series Analysis" published in the Journal of Neurological Surgery. Part B. Skull Base, focuses on a retrospective case series of 41 patients with juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA) treated surgically at the institution. The study examines patient demographics, surgical approaches, recurrence rates, and the impact of different methods on reducing recurrence risks. Endoscopic surgery is highlighted as the preferred method for resecting JNA, with a recurrence rate of 7.4% at the institution. The article provides valuable data for future comparisons and research on the optimal surgical treatment for JNA. [Extracted from the article]

While it is thought that different work experiences generate unique situations that allow police officers to develop confidence in their abilities to resolve them, this connection has received scarce scholarly attention. In the current study, a thematic content analysis of narrative survey responses from over 300 police officers from one large agency in the United States was conducted to assess perceptions of how and why work contexts might differentially shape self-confidence. Participants believed that officers who are exposed to a variety of workplace experiences develop into the most confident practitioners. Working patrol assignments, in high crime areas, and on night shift were viewed as especially important. Overall, the findings offer useful insights for police agencies looking to build self-confidence within their sworn personnel and numerous avenues for future research to expand on this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automation via robotic systems is becoming widely adopted across many industries, but intelligent autonomy in dynamic environments is challenging to implement due to the difficulty of 3D vision. This paper proposes a novel method that utilizes in-situ 2D image processing to simplify 3D segmentation for robotic workspace detection in industrial applications. Using a TOF sensor mounted on a robotic arm, depth images of the workspace are collected. The algorithm identifies the contour of a table, filters extraneous data points, and converts only relevant data to a 3D pointcloud. This pointcloud is processed to identify the precise location of the workspace with regard to the robot. This method has been shown to be 10% more accurate and over 10,000% faster than a human analyzing the data in a GUI-based software using an octree region-based segmentation algorithm and provides consistent results, only limited by the resolution of the camera itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Although continuing education (CE) plays an important role in educating health care providers on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), little is known about the DEI initiatives promoted and implemented by providers of CE. Surveys were electronically administered to accredited pharmacy continuing education providers (CEPs) from 2021 to 2023. Survey items were assessed providers' current efforts and best practices for incorporating DEI into organizational culture and educational programming. Frequencies and percentages were calculated for categorical responses, and a general interpretivist approach was used to code open-ended response items and describe themes. Overall, 50 and 33 responses were received in 2021/2022 and 2023, respectively. The most common step taken by programs to advance DEI was to engage pharmacists and/or pharmacy technicians in DEI discussions. Qualitative analysis described categories and themes as follows: best practices (CE programming DEI strategies , organizational DEI strategies) , DEI goals (mission statement and DEI strategic plan , developing CE , continuing pharmacy education committee and task force , and faculty development and guidance) , and accrediting body support (sharing best practices and training and technical support). Although CEPs described current efforts and best practices related to DEI in CE, organizations involved in CE accreditation can continue to explore ways to support DEI initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low sexual desire in women partnered with men has been the subject of controversy and research over the past decades, including both as construct and diagnosis. Despite discussion surrounding the causes of low desire, there is a gap in research about how women themselves understand the causes of their low desire and the potential consequences of these causal attributions. In the current study, we investigated this by asking 130 women who had low desire and were partnered with men about their attributions for low desire. Through content analysis, we identified five attribution categories: psychological/individual, relational, biological, sociocultural, and/or sexual orientation/identity/status. Many participants chose more than one category, indicating a multifaceted nature of women's causes of low desire. We then quantitatively assessed women's feelings of responsibility for, and emotions surrounding, their low desire. Our findings indicate that the majority—but not all—of women have negative feelings about their low desire. However, the specific emotions they experience are related to their attribution patterns. This underscores the significance of investigating various facets of women's attributions regarding low desire in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding of their emotional experiences and desire overall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Localized provoked vulvodynia is a common sexual health condition for which there is a lack of consensus on effective management, even though it can have a significant negative impact on psychological wellbeing, sexual functioning, and quality of life for women and their partners. Aim To map the research landscape related to the effectiveness/efficacy of psychological treatments for localized provoked vulvodynia, identify gaps, and make recommendations for future research. Methods We used Arksey and O'Malley's approach to conducting a scoping review to identify, organize, and summarize research published between 2010 and 2023 that investigated the efficacy or effectiveness of interventions in the management of localized provoked vulvodynia. Inclusion and exclusion criteria and the search strategy were developed by subject experts in collaboration with a health sciences librarian. A PubMed search used controlled vocabulary and keyword terms relating to vulvodynia, which were then translated into other databases. Studies not published in English or French were excluded. We did not consider other subsets of vulvodynia. Articles were uploaded to Covidence, duplicates removed, and titles and abstracts screened. The remaining articles were subject to a 2-person, independent full-text review followed by a hand search of eligible articles. All intervention studies were included regardless of the study design. Study details were reported narratively and analyzed. Main Outcome Measures Of the 88 included articles published between January 2010 and March 2023, 15 reported on the efficacy/effectiveness of psychological treatments for localized provoked vulvodynia, including group educational seminars, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and somatocognitive therapy. Results Cognitive behavioral therapy was the most common form of psychological treatment studied (n = 7) with interventions for both individuals and couples. Education about the condition and the therapeutic process was a component of many interventions. Psychological therapies may be of some benefit, but only 1 RCT evaluating the efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy appeared adequately powered to demonstrate improvement in dyspareunia. Studies sampled homogenous patient populations, primarily consisting of White, urban-dwelling, educated, partnered, heterosexual cis-women. Conclusion Evidence of efficacy/effectiveness, drawn mainly from small studies, is promising and highlights opportunities for more robust studies with heterogeneous populations, more research on the role of education in treatment success, and greater attention to assessing patient-driven outcomes in partnered and unpartnered women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals with ADHD symptoms are at an increased risk of lifetime trauma exposure. However, research has yet to fully examine whether symptoms of ADHD function as a temporal risk factor for experiencing trauma and specific mechanisms that may explain the association between symptoms of ADHD and trauma exposure. Two constructs that may account for the relation between ADHD symptoms and trauma are deviant peer association and neighborhood disadvantage. The present study sought to 1) elucidate the temporal nature of ADHD symptoms and exposure to trauma and 2) examine whether peer deviancy and/or neighborhood disadvantage mediate the relation between childhood ADHD symptoms and subsequent trauma exposure across a 20-year longitudinal cohort study. Participants (N = 616) were predominantly Black/African American (86%; Male n = 389) from an urban school district. Using structural equation modeling, total trauma exposures during young adulthood (Years 17–20) were regressed on parent- and teacher-rated ADHD symptoms in Grade 1 (Year 1). A significant indirect path from ADHD symptoms to trauma exposure through deviant peer affiliation (Year 16) indicated that having childhood ADHD symptoms predicted deviant peer affiliation 16 years later, which in turn predicted greater exposures to traumatic events during young adulthood, controlling for neighborhood disadvantage. Neighborhood disadvantage was not a significant mediator when accounting for peer deviancy. Taken together, findings contribute to a limited body of research that utilizes a prospective design to examine the association between childhood ADHD symptoms and trauma exposure in young adulthood among Black/African American youth. Potential targets for intervention are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of 2 short-term powered mobility interventions across developmental domains, participation, and perceptions of intervention implementation for young children with cerebral palsy and their families. Methods This randomized, crossover clinical trial compared 2 powered mobility interventions: the Explorer Mini (Permobil AB, Timra, Sweden) and an adapted ride-on toy car. Analyses included 24 children aged 12 to 36 months, recruited from 3 sites. Each device was trialed in the home for an 8-week period for a total of 16 weeks. Three in-person study visits took place at baseline, crossover, and study completion, and 2 additional virtual check-ins were conducted for each device trial period. Outcome measures included all domains of the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Fourth Edition (Bayley-4); Child Engagement in Daily Life (CEDL) participation questionnaire; and t3 perceptual implementation measures: Acceptability of Intervention Measure, Intervention Appropriateness Measure, and Feasibility of Intervention Measure. Analyses included descriptive statistics, 2 by 3 group × time analysis of variance, and post hoc t tests as warranted. Results Statistically significant mean improvements were observed in all domains of the Bayley-4 and in the self-care subscale of the CEDL regardless of device order. Caregivers ranked both devices as acceptable and feasible to implement, although the Explorer Mini was ranked slightly more favorably than the adapted ride-on toy car, with a device order effect being observed. Conclusion Short-term powered mobility intervention may advance multiple domains of development and participation for young children with cerebral palsy. Caregivers rated 2 different powered mobility devices favorably as part of their child's early intervention strategies. Impact This study enhances the quality of evidence available to clinicians and families to support decision-making about powered mobility intervention for young children with motor disabilities, especially those who may be reluctant to begin powered mobility due to stigma or concern for motor skill development. Lay Summary In this study, children with cerebral palsy used 2 different powered mobility devices over 16 weeks. The goal of the study was to understand how powered mobility device use affected the children's movement, communication, learning, and social interactions. The goal was also to understand how caregivers felt about the intervention and device options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increases in methamphetamine use among individuals seeking treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) have implications for substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. Secondary data from 28,358 adults (18+) in a multi-year evaluation of publicly funded SUD treatment was analyzed. A significant linear trend showed an increase in opioid and methamphetamine co-use over time. In the multinomial logistic regression, recent co-use of opioids and methamphetamine was significantly associated with being female, younger age, being White, living in a metropolitan community, greater economic hardship, using more substances (other than opioids and methamphetamine) relative to the other drug use patterns. Past-12-month interpersonal victimization was associated with co-use of opioids and methamphetamine relative to individuals who did not use opioids-methamphetamine and individuals who used opioids, no methamphetamine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computational workflows are a common class of application on supercomputers, yet the loosely coupled and heterogeneous nature of workflows often fails to take full advantage of their capabilities. We created Colmena to leverage the massive parallelism of a supercomputer by using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to learn from and adapt a workflow as it executes. Colmena allows scientists to define how their application should respond to events (e.g., task completion) as a series of cooperative agents. In this paper, we describe the design of Colmena, the challenges we overcame while deploying applications on exascale systems, and the science workflows we have enhanced through interweaving AI. The scaling challenges we discuss include developing steering strategies that maximize node utilization, introducing data fabrics that reduce communication overhead of data-intensive tasks, and implementing workflow tasks that cache costly operations between invocations. These innovations coupled with a variety of application patterns accessible through our agent-based steering model have enabled science advances in chemistry, biophysics, and materials science using different types of AI. Our vision is that Colmena will spur creative solutions that harness AI across many domains of scientific computing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Among the various types of end-organ damage associated with sepsis, hepatic injury is linked to significantly higher mortality rates compared to dysfunction in other organ systems. This study aimed to investigate potential biomarkers of hepatic injury in sepsis patients through a multi-center, case–control approach. We enrolled three matched cohorts: 37 sepsis patients with hepatic dysfunction (S-HD), 37 sepsis patients without hepatic dysfunction (S-CON), and 18 healthy controls (HC). We measured five proposed biomarkers of hepatic dysfunction—ARG1, MDH1, GSTα, 5-NT, and SDH—using multiplex immunoassays. These biomarkers were compared to traditional markers of hepatic dysfunction, including albumin, bilirubin, ALT, AST, and GGT, across the cohorts using both conventional statistical methods and machine learning techniques. The median age of participants was comparable across cohorts: S-HD (65.0 years, IQR 49.5–82.5), S-CON (65.0 years, IQR 48.0–81.5), and HC (62.5 years, IQR 53.0–65.0; P = 0.794). Patients with hepatic dysfunction (S-HD) exhibited higher illness severity scores compared to those without hepatic dysfunction (S-CON): MODS scores were median 7.0 (IQR 4.0–10.0) in S-HD versus median 4.0 (IQR 2.0–7.0) in S-CON (P = 0.005), and SOFA scores were median 7.0 (IQR 4.0–11.0) in S-HD versus median 3.0 (IQR 2.0–6.0) in S-CON (P < 0.001). Hemoglobin and platelet counts were lower, while creatinine levels were higher in S-HD compared to S-CON (P < 0.05). On ICU Day 1, bilirubin, ALT, AST, GGT, and INR were significantly elevated in S-HD relative to S-CON (P ≤ 0.001), and albumin levels were lower (P < 0.05). Additionally, ARG1, GSTα, 5-NT, and SDH were significantly higher in S-HD patients on ICU Day 1 compared to S-CON (P < 0.05). ARG1, MDH1, and SDH showed positive correlations with AST, ALT, and MODS (P < 0.01). From ICU Day 1 to Day 7, ARG1, GSTα, SDH, and AST levels significantly decreased in S-HD patients (P < 0.05), whereas MDH1 and 5-NT levels did not. Among the proposed biomarkers, GSTα and 5-NT did not correlate with traditional hepatic dysfunction markers but were significant in identifying S-HD patients (feature importance 0.131 and 0.097, respectively) in a random forest classification model. This comprehensive model demonstrated excellent performance in distinguishing sepsis patients with hepatic injury, with sensitivity 0.93, specificity 0.94, NPV 0.94, PPV 0.94, and AUC 0.94. The biomarkers ARG1, MDH1, GSTα, 5-NT, and SDH show promise as novel indicators of hepatic dysfunction associated with sepsis. This study provides a foundational basis for subsequent research aimed at characterizing and clinically validating these markers. Future investigations should focus on integrating these potential biomarkers into routine laboratory assessments for sepsis and related hepatic injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The presence of a Lisfranc injury alone is considered a surgical indication in most patients. Indications for primary arthrodesis (PA) versus open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), however, is a topic of debate among surgeons. Conflicting data exists as to which treatment modality leads to improved patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), reoperations, and complications. Methods: Databases queried included PubMed, OVID Medline, Embase, SCOPUS, Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials, and clinicaltrials.gov from their dates of inception to 3/21/2024. Studies were incorporated into this analysis if they had included patients with acute Lisfranc injuries and compared outcomes between PA and ORIF. PROMs, reoperations, and complications were captured. Results were reported as effect sizes (ES) and odds ratios (OR). Results: There were eighteen studies included in this SRMA. Pooled data from 13/16 studies that reported AOFAS and VAS demonstrated better outcomes after PA compared to ORIF. AOFAS was 84.4 ± 28.5 after PA and 75.7 ± 29.0 after ORIF. VAS pain was 1.4 ± 2.7 after PA and 2.0 ± 3.3 after ORIF. There were 3 more studies that reported other PROMs and favored ORIF. Return to preinjury activity was 79.2% after PA and 65.7% after ORIF. The prevalence of midfoot post-traumatic arthritis was reported as 2.8% after PA and 17.3% after ORIF. Adjacent joint arthritis was not reported in the current literature. After PA, 77/438 (17.6%) patients underwent reoperations, and after ORIF, 514/802 (64.1%) patients underwent reoperations. After excluding planned hardware removals, relative rates of unplanned reoperations were 14.7% (n = 62/423) after PA and 38.3% (n = 181/472) after ORIF (p < 0.001). Non-operative complications occurred in 43/406 (10.6%) patients after PA and 95/753 (12.6%) patients after ORIF (p = 0.31). Meta-analyses demonstrated that AOFAS (ES: 0.41, CI 0.13, 0.68, p = 0.004) and VAS pain (ES: − 0.53, CI − 0.91, − 0.15, p = 0.006), and return to activity rates (OR: 2.71, CI 1.43, 6.39) favored PA over ORIF. Post-traumatic arthritis (OR: 0.29, CI 0.11, 0.77) and reoperations (OR: 0.16, CI 0.06, 0.44) were less prevalent after PA compared to ORIF. Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis suggested that PA provides better short- and medium-term outcomes in the setting of Lisfranc injuries when compared to ORIF with rigid fixation. Due to a lack of available clinical studies, the long-term effects of PA are largely unknown but may include increased adjacent joint arthritis, pain, and need for further surgery—especially in young and active patients. Future research demonstrating long-term outcomes would be helpful in clinical decision making. Level of evidence: I. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Prostate cancer is a major global health issue, with over 1.4 million new cases and more than 330,000 deaths annually. The main challenge in treating prostate cancer is predicting and managing metastasis, which is currently incurable. This review highlights that metastasis may be driven by disruptions in the vesicular trafficking machinery that controls endosome-lysosome biology. Understanding how changes in the transport of endosomes and lysosomes contribute to cancer progression could lead to new ways to detect and treat metastatic prostate cancer, improving patient outcomes. Prostate cancer remains a significant global health concern, with over 1.4 million new cases diagnosed and more than 330,000 deaths each year. The primary clinical challenge that contributes to poor patient outcomes involves the failure to accurately predict and treat at the onset of metastasis, which remains an incurable stage of the disease. This review discusses the emerging paradigm that prostate cancer metastasis is driven by a dysregulation of critical molecular machinery that regulates endosome-lysosome homeostasis. Endosome and lysosome compartments have crucial roles in maintaining normal cellular function but are also involved in many hallmarks of cancer pathogenesis, including inflammation, immune response, nutrient sensing, metabolism, proliferation, signalling, and migration. Here we discuss new insight into how alterations in the complex network of trafficking machinery, responsible for the microtubule-based transport of endosomes and lysosomes, may be involved in prostate cancer progression. A better understanding of endosome-lysosome dynamics may facilitate the discovery of novel strategies to detect and manage prostate cancer metastasis and improve patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research has variably indicated the role of working memory in error detection by which working memory played a role in rhythmic error detection but not melodic error detection. Here, we devised a longer melodic error detection task for college musicians in an auditory, rather than visual, condition using classical excerpts, which we compared to briefer visual and auditory control conditions. These tests were compared to performance on a test of verbal working memory (forward digit span test) and an experimenter-created tonal working memory test. The tonal working memory test was positively related to the forward digit span test, the melodic error detection, and the visual control but not to the auditory control. Performance on the error detection test was not significantly related to year in school, level of aural skills class, years of private piano, or level of group piano class. Our participants performed similarly on the aurally presented melodic error detection of classical excerpts and the briefer visual control but not on the briefer aural control. Among other variables, years of experience on a second instrument was a significant predictor of error detection skill. High familiarity ratings with a classical excerpt did not yield a relationship to error detection performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In August 2024, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration rejected Lykos Therapeutics, Inc.'s new drug application for midomafetamine with psychological intervention (MDMA-AT) to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Among the many issues raised during review was concern about a highly publicized case of alleged sexual misconduct by an unlicensed therapist during a Phase 2 study of MDMA and the potential risk of future abuse. This incident of misconduct, along with several other publicized cases of misconduct by guides, facilitators, and shaman offering psychedelic retreats, has raised the question of whether physical contact is ever appropriate during psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT). Drawing on research about supportive touch in other clinical contexts and taking into consideration features of psychedelics that exacerbate the potential for harm associated with supportive touch, we advocate for a precautionary approach to harm-reduction while arguing that supportive touch ought not be thrown out whole-cloth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of prehabilitation and rehabilitation ([p]rehabilitation) to alleviate the sequelae of bladder cancer and its treatment has generated numerous opportunities to improve the quality of life of bladder cancer survivors. The authors conducted a scoping review of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) to identify knowledge gaps in and research directions for (p)rehabilitative support for those affected by bladder cancer. The authors systematically searched six databases and synthesized key findings from RCTs conducted from January 1, 2004, through March 15, 2022, that enrolled participants with bladder cancer, survivors, or caregivers in outpatient (p)rehabilitative programs (e.g., exercise, nutrition, or psychological support). Outcomes were characterized according to eight prespecified, clinically relevant categories. The search retrieved 10,968 records, 27 of which met the inclusion criteria, and 24 described unique RCTs with 2471 enrolled participants. Of 24 interventions, 17 (71%) yielded statistically significant results for the outcome of interest. Only one RCT included a cost‐effectiveness analysis, and only two characterized the efficacy of interventions for caregivers. Of 11 RCTs involving psychological support, eight yielded statistically significant results, as did nine of 11 RCTs with physical exercise interventions, three of four RCTs with educational interventions, three of four RCTs with nutritional support interventions, one of two RCTs with pharmacologic medications, and zero of one RCT with physical therapy. The most promising interventions for inclusion in multimodal, personalized (p)rehabilitation programs included exercise, stress management training, cognitive training, smoking and alcohol cessation counseling, immunonutrition, stoma education, and penile rehabilitation. Further studies of the cost effectiveness and efficacy for caregivers of such interventions are needed. Plain Language Summary: In a scoping review of all randomized clinical trials involving prehabilitative or rehabilitative diet, exercise, and psychological support interventions for patients with bladder cancer, survivors, and their caregivers, 17 of 24 (71%) interventions yielded statistically significant improvements in the outcome of interest.Clinicians should consider implementing such interventions for those affected by bladder cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vacancies are generated in semiconductor devices while operating in the space radiation environment, impacting semiconductor carrier concentrations and dynamics. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) is used to probe these defect concentrations in bulk grown GaN, GaP, InAs, InP, Si, MgO, and ZnO both as-grown and as a function of 2–4 MeV proton irradiation. All samples were irradiated to yield a common initial damage production and characterized identically. In as-grown samples, PALS reveals vacancy concentrations above the saturation limit in the oxides, disabling further analysis. As a function of dose, of the materials in which defect accumulation could be probed, it is observed that GaN is the most resistant to the accumulation of defects (attributed to the Ga vacancies) and Si is the least. GaP (attributed to the Ga vacancy) and InAs exhibit slightly higher rates of vacancy accumulation than GaN. InP exhibits high defect accumulation rates approaching that of Si. This information is key to understanding the operation of a diverse set of semiconductors in the space radiation environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Institutions in the GLAM (galleries, libraries, archives, and museums) sector serve the public as institutions for cultural heritage, identity, education, experience, and leisure. The goals of these institutions are becoming more closely aligned and they have shared a turn from being collection-centred to a focus on users and visitors. When these institutions also face similar challenges brought on especially by digitalization, there is increasing discourse in scholarly literature and among GLAM professionals about the drivers, impacts and opportunities of convergence for the sector. There remains however, scant empirical examination of user/visitor perception and experience of such convergence. This research addresses this knowledge gap and investigates a converged GLAM case institution, Te Ara 'Atea in New Zealand through a user/visitor survey. The survey findings suggest that users/visitors perceive and experience fewer issues with convergence relative to benefits. A novel insight from this research is that the concept of GLAM convergence can positively contribute to cultural and community wellbeing. As for perceived issue within the convergence space, of particular interest is the concept of unsanctioned touch of displayed objects/artworks, and the alleged unclear behavioral norms in converged environments. The findings also point to further considerations and implications regarding GLAM disciplinary boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bond-orientational order in DNA-assembled nanoparticles lattices is explored with the help of recently introduced Symmetry-specific Bond Order Parameters (SymBOPs). This approach provides a more sensitive analysis of local order than traditional scalar BOPs, facilitating the identification of coherent domains at the single bond level. The present study expands the method initially developed for assemblies of anisotropic particles to the isotropic ones or cases where particle orientation information is unavailable. The SymBOP analysis was applied to experiments on DNA-frame-based assembly of nanoparticle lattices. It proved highly sensitive in identifying coherent crystalline domains with different orientations, as well as detecting topological defects, such as dislocations. Furthermore, the analysis distinguishes individual sublattices within a single crystalline domain, such as pair of interpenetrating FCC lattices within a cubic diamond. The results underscore the versatility and robustness of SymBOPs in characterizing ordering phenomena, making them valuable tools for investigating structural properties in various systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation into the effects of 63 MeV proton irradiation on high-sensitivity mid-wave infrared InGaAs/InAsSb nBn devices is performed. Three different structures with various absorber region doping profiles are irradiated and characterized to assess their impact on performance degradation. Minority carrier lifetime is measured using time-resolved photoluminescence and lifetime damage factors are assessed. The majority carrier concentration is determined via capacitance–voltage measurements and dopant introduction rates are calculated. An analysis of dark current density is performed using these material parameters, revealing a reduction in mobility with proton fluence and the emergence of a proton-induced trap energy level. Quantum efficiency is calculated at each proton fluence, and quantum efficiency damage factors show that the graded doping structure exhibits the least reduction of quantum efficiency with dose, attributed to its effective mobility enhancement. Conclusively, detector sensitivity, assessed via shot-noise limited noise-equivalent irradiance, shows that the graded doping structure is the least susceptible to high energy proton irradiation-induced performance degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on efforts to improve the speed of low-G far-infrared transition-edged-sensed bolometers. We use a fabrication process that does not require any dry etch steps to reduce heat capacity on the suspended device and measure a reduction in the detector time constant. However, we also measure an increase in the temperature-normalized thermal conductance (G) and a corresponding increase in the noise-equivalent power (NEP). We employ a new near-IR photon-noise technique using a near-IR laser to calibrate the frequency-domain multiplexed AC system and compare the results to a well-understood DC circuit. We measure an NEP white noise level of 0.8 aW/rtHz with a 1/f knee below 0.1 Hz and a time constant of 3.2 ms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inhibitors of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS), such as ACE inhibitors (ACEi), angiotensin-II receptor blockers and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, reduce morbidity and mortality in hypertension, congestive heart failure and chronic kidney disease. However, their use can lead to hyperkalaemia. We examined the proportions of RAAS inhibitor (RAASi) reduction or withdrawal, across GFR strata, following hospitalisation and the effect on patient mortality. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of adult patients hospitalised from 1 January2017 to 31 December2020. Biochemistry data, clinical notes and medicines use were extracted using the CogStack platform, from electronic health records. Patients were identified by creatinine measurement during hospitalisation. Hyperkalaemia was defined as potassium > 5.0 mmol/L, with severity categorisation. RAASi discontinuation defined as ≥ 48 h without administration. Mortality risk associated with RAASi cessation was assessed using Cox proportional hazards models. Results: Among 129,172 patients with potassium measurements, 49,011 were hospitalised. Hyperkalaemia prevalence was 8.57% in the emergency department and 16.79% among hospitalised patients. Higher hyperkalaemia levels correlated with increased CKD and heart failure. RAASi use was more common in hyperkalaemic patients, with higher discontinuation rates during hospitalisation (36% with potassium 5–5.5 mmol/L; 61% with potassium > 6.5 mmol/L). By discharge, 32% of patients had RAASi stopped, and 2% doses reduced. Discontinuation of RAASi was associated with 37% worse survival probability. Conclusion: RAASi cessation was greater with hyperkalaemia and associated with increased mortality in hospitalised patients. Reinstitution of RAASi after hospital discharge, or alternative management of hyperkalaemia if maintained on RAASi therapy, may improve clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding lexico‐semantic processing is crucial for dissecting the complexities of language and its disorders. Relatedness‐based measures, or those which investigate the degree of relatedness in meaning between either task items or items produced by participants, offer the opportunity to harness novel computational and analytical techniques from cognitive network science. Recognizing the need to deepen our understanding of lexico‐semantic deficits through diverse experimental and analytical approaches, this review explores the use of such measures in research into language disorders. A comprehensive search of four electronic databases covering publications from the last 11 years (October 2013–September 2024) identified 38 original experimental studies employing relatedness‐based measures in populations with language disorders or other neurological conditions. Articles were examined for the types of tasks used, populations studied, item selection methods and analytical approaches. The predominant use of category fluency tasks emerged across studies, with a notable absence of relatedness judgement tasks or comparable paradigms. Commonly discussed populations included individuals with post‐stroke aphasia, mild cognitive impairment and schizophrenia. Analytical methods varied significantly, ranging from more traditional approaches of clustering and switching to more sophisticated computational techniques. Despite the evident utility of category fluency tasks in research and clinical settings, the review underscores a critical need to diversify experimental paradigms and probe lexico‐semantic processing in a more multifaceted manner. A broadened approach in future language disorder research should incorporate innovative analytical techniques, investigations of neural correlates and a wider array of tasks employing relatedness‐based measures already present in healthy populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endothelial cells respond to mechanical force by stimulating cellular signaling, but how these pathways are linked to elevations in cell metabolism and whether metabolism supports the mechanical response remains poorly understood. Here, we show that the application of force to endothelial cells stimulates VE-cadherin to activate liver kinase B1 (LKB1; also known as STK11) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a master regulator of energy homeostasis. VE-cadherin-stimulated AMPK increases eNOS (also known as NOS3) activity and localization to the plasma membrane, reinforcement of the actin cytoskeleton and cadherin adhesion complex, and glucose uptake. We present evidence for the increase in metabolism being necessary to fortify the adhesion complex, actin cytoskeleton and cellular alignment. Together, these data extend the paradigm for how mechanotransduction and metabolism are linked to include a connection to vasodilation, thereby providing new insight into how diseases involving contractile, metabolic and vasodilatory disturbances arise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS) is a rare genetic condition characterized by features of accelerated aging, and individuals with HGPS seldom live beyond their mid-teens. The syndrome is commonly caused by a point mutation in the LMNA gene which codes for lamin A and its splice variant lamin C, components of the nuclear lamina. The mutation causing HGPS leads to production of a truncated, farnesylated form of lamin A referred to as "progerin." Progerin is also expressed at low levels in healthy individuals and appears to play a role in normal aging. HGPS is associated with an accumulation of genomic DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and alterations in the nature of DSB repair. The source of DSBs in HGPS is often attributed to stalling and subsequent collapse of replication forks in conjunction with faulty recruitment of repair factors to damage sites. In this work, we used a model system involving immortalized human cell lines to investigate progerin-induced genomic damage. Using an immunofluorescence approach to visualize phosphorylated histone H2AX foci which mark sites of genomic damage, we report that cells engineered to express progerin displayed a significant elevation of endogenous damage in the absence of any change in the cell cycle profile or doubling time of cells. Genomic damage was enhanced and persistent in progerin-expressing cells treated with hydroxyurea. Overexpression of wild-type lamin A did not elicit the outcomes associated with progerin expression. Our results show that DNA damage caused by progerin can occur independently from global changes in replication or cell proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "A Chorus of Advocacy" by Sarah Logan discusses the importance of school librarians and the challenges they face in advocating for quality school library programs. Logan highlights the significant role of teacher-librarians in promoting literacy, digital citizenship, and media literacy among students. She also addresses the funding issues, staff reductions, and the need for advocacy to ensure equitable access to school libraries. Logan emphasizes the impact of school librarians on student achievement and calls for increased awareness and support for school library programs. [Extracted from the article]

The article "Library Islands" discusses the isolated nature of school libraries and the unique role of Teacher-Librarians, who often work alone without consistent staffing or funding. The author emphasizes the importance of expanding professional networks and communities beyond the library world to advocate for school library programs. Issues such as budget deficits, lack of Teacher-Librarians in schools, and funding challenges facing Washington's K-12 schools are highlighted, urging readers to educate themselves and take action to support quality school library programs. The article calls for collaboration and advocacy to ensure students have access to essential literacy skills and resources for the future. [Extracted from the article]

The discovery of adult‐born granule cells (aDGCs) in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus has raised questions regarding how they develop, incorporate into the hippocampal circuitry, and contribute to learning and memory. Here, we used patch‐clamp electrophysiology to investigate the intrinsic and synaptic excitability of mouse aDGCs as they matured, enabled by using a tamoxifen‐induced genetic label to birth date the aDGCs at different animal ages. Importantly, we also undertook immunofluorescence studies of the expression of the immediate early gene Egr1 and compared these findings with the electrophysiology data in the same animals. We examined two groups of animals, with aDGC birthdating when the mice were 2 months and at 7–9 months of age. In both groups, cells 4 weeks old had lower thresholds for current‐evoked action potentials than older cells but fired fewer spikes during long current pulses and responded more poorly to synaptic activation. aDGCs born in both 2 and 7–9‐month‐old mice matured in their intrinsic excitability and synaptic properties from 4–12 weeks postgenesis, but this occurred more slowly for the older age animals. Interestingly, this pattern of intrinsic excitability changes did not correlate with the pattern of Egr1 expression. Instead, the development of Egr1 expression was correlated with the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents. These results suggest that in order for aDGCs to fully participate in hippocampal circuitry, as indicated by Egr1 expression, they must have developed enough synaptic input, in spite of the greater input resistance and reduced firing threshold that characterizes young aDGCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]