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We introduce a novel algorithm that leverages stochastic sampling techniques to compute the perturbative triples correction in the coupled-cluster framework. By combining elements of randomness and determinism, our algorithm achieves a favorable balance between accuracy and computational cost. The main advantage of this algorithm is that it allows for the calculation to be stopped at any time, providing an unbiased estimate, with a statistical error that goes to zero as the exact calculation is approached. We provide evidence that our semi-stochastic algorithm achieves substantial computational savings compared to traditional deterministic methods. Specifically, we demonstrate that a precision of 0.5 millihartree can be attained with only 10% of the computational effort required by the full calculation. This work opens up new avenues for efficient and accurate computations, enabling investigations of complex molecular systems that were previously computationally prohibitive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to compare the maximum and rapid force production of Spanish football players and explore the differences between age group and level of competition. Methods: A cross-sectional study was developed to evaluate the peak force (PF), relative PF, and rate of force development over 250 ms (RFD0−250) during the isometric midthigh pull between groups of football players based on age group (senior vs junior) and level of competition (national vs regional). Using a portable isometric rig, 111 football players performed 2 isometric midthigh-pull trials on a force plate. Two-way analysis of variance with Bonferroni post hoc correction was applied, and statistical significance was set at P ≤.05. The PF, relative PF, and RFD0−250 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 percentiles were also calculated and descriptively reported, separated by age group and level of competition. Results: The analysis of variance revealed a significant main effect of the level of competition for the PF (P <.001), relative PF (P =.003), and RFD0−250 (P <.001). There was a significant main effect of age group for the PF (P <.001). There was a significant interaction effect of the age group × level of competition for relative PF (P =.014). National players were stronger than regional players on the PF and RFD0−250 (P <.001). Senior players were stronger than junior players for the PF (P <.001). Conclusions: Maximum and rapid force production are crucial for Spanish football players as they progress in both level of competition and age group. Practitioners should encourage young football players to prioritize strength development to improve their athletic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study, through molecular dynamics simulations, three aqueous solutions with one lysozyme protein and three different concentrations of trehalose and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). We analyze the structural and dynamical properties of the protein hydration water upon cooling. We find that trehalose plays a major role in modifying the structure of the network of HBs between water molecules in the hydration layer of the protein. The dynamics of hydration water presents, in addition to the α-relaxation, typical of glass formers, a slower long-time relaxation process, which greatly slows down the dynamics of water, particularly in the systems with trehalose, where it becomes dominant at low temperatures. In all the solutions, we observe, from the behavior of the α-relaxation times, a shift of the Mode Coupling Theory crossover temperature and the fragile-to-strong crossover temperature toward higher values with respect to bulk water. We also observe a strong-to-strong crossover from the temperature behavior of the long-relaxation times. In the aqueous solution with only DMSO, the transition shifts to a lower temperature than in the case with only lysozyme reported in the literature. We observe that the addition of trehalose to the mixture has the opposite effect of restoring the original location of the strong-to-strong crossover. In all the solutions analyzed in this work, the observed temperature of the protein dynamical transition is slightly shifted at lower temperatures than that of the strong-to-strong crossover, but their relative order is the same, showing a correlation between the motion of the protein and that of the hydration water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We perform molecular dynamics simulations of a binary mixture of water and trehalose with the TIP4P/Ice water model. We analyze the slow dynamics of trehalose molecules in the mildly supercooled region for concentrations of 3.66 and 18.57 wt. %. We previously studied the dynamics of water in the same mixtures. Supercooled TIP4P/Ice water solvating trehalose molecules was found to follow the Mode Coupling Theory (MCT) and to undergo a transition from a fragile to a strong behavior for both concentrations. Here, we show that also the dynamics of trehalose molecules follows the MCT and displays a fragile to strong crossover (FSC). The results show that trehalose in binary mixtures with water shares with it the dynamical behavior typical of glass forming liquids. Moreover, the FSC for trehalose structural relaxation times is found to occur at temperatures close to those previously obtained for water in the same solutions, showing that the dynamics of the solute is strongly coupled to that of the solvent. We also perform a MCT test showing that the trehalose dynamics obeys the MCT time–temperature superposition principle and that the exponents derived from the theory and the ones obtained from fitting procedure of the relaxation times are comparable, confirming that trehalose molecules in supercooled water solutions follow the MCT of glassy dynamics. Moreover, as predicted by the theory, trehalose particles have MCT parameters comparable to those of water in the same mixtures. This is an important result, given that MCT was originally formulated for monoatomic particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to describe the day-by-day training and racing characteristics in preparation for the Giro d'Italia of 1 world-class road cyclist who achieved a place on the podium in the final general classification of the Giro d'Italia. Methods: Day-by-day power meter training and racing data of 1 study subject (road cyclist; age 25 y; relative maximum oxygen consumption 81 mL·min−1·kg−1; relative 20-min record power output 6.6 W·kg−1) covering the 152 days leading up to the podium in the Giro d'Italia final general classification were retrospectively analyzed. Daily load, daily volume, and intensity distribution were considered. Results: During training a pattern alternating "hard days" versus "easy days" was observed, as significant amounts of medium or high intensity, or load, were not performed for more than 2 consecutive days This pattern was achieved combining high volume (>4 h) with a significant amount of medium and high intensity within the same training sessions. During training, when training load and intensity increased, the density of "easy days" augmented. In 1-week stage races and the Giro d'Italia, 3 to 8 consecutive days with significant amounts of medium and high intensity were performed. A high number of training sessions with small amounts of medium- and high-intensity volume was observed: 38 days accumulating 3 to 10 minutes at medium intensity and 29 days spending 1 to 9 minutes at high intensity. Conclusion: These data provide novel insights about the day-by-day periodization strategies leading to a top 3 in the Giro d'Italia general classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates a single-vendor, multiple-buyer coordinated supply chain under stochastic demand. Each buyer implements a continuous review policy, and the shortage quantity is fully back-ordered. The lead time for the first shipment includes setup, production, and transportation times, while the lead time for the remaining shipments includes only transportation time. The production time is a function of production lot and production rate, which are both decision variables, and the setup and transportation times are controllable as well. For each buyer, the safety stock in the first replenishment cycle is not necessarily identical to that in the remaining cycles. Two successive shipments from the vendor to a buyer may have different sizes, and their ratio is a decision variable. The problem is finding the production and inventory replenishment policy, production rate, and lead times that minimise the long-run expected total cost per time unit. We demonstrate properties satisfied by the cost function and develop an optimisation algorithm, whose performance is compared to a benchmark algorithm based on a commercial solver in a numerical experiment. The experiments also investigate the benefits stemming from the proposed model when compared to models reproducing situations that leverage some or any of the controlled factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: No direct comparisons of the effect of natalizumab and ocrelizumab on progression independent of relapse activity (PIRA) and relapse‐associated worsening (RAW) events are currently available. We aimed to compare the risk of achieving first 6 months confirmed PIRA and RAW events and irreversible Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 4.0 and 6.0 in a cohort of naïve patients treated with natalizumab or ocrelizumab from the Italian Multiple Sclerosis Register. Methods: Patients with a first visit within 1 year from onset, treated with natalizumab or ocrelizumab, and ≥3 visits were extracted. Pairwise propensity score‐matched analyses were performed. Risk of reaching the first PIRA, RAW, and EDSS 4.0 and 6.0 events were estimated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to show cumulative probabilities of reaching outcomes. Results: In total, 770 subjects were included (natalizumab = 568; ocrelizumab = 212) and the propensity score‐matching retrieved 195 pairs. No RAW events were found in natalizumab group and only 1 was reported in ocrelizumab group. A first PIRA event was reached by 23 natalizumab and 25 ocrelizumab exposed patients; 7 natalizumab‐ and 10 ocrelizumab‐treated patients obtained an irreversible EDSS 4.0, while 13 natalizumab‐ and 15 ocrelizumab‐treated patients reached an irreversible EDSS 6.0. No differences between the two groups were found in the risk (HR, 95%CI) of reaching a first PIRA (1.04, 0.59–1.84; p = 0.88) event, an irreversible EDSS 4.0 (1.23, 0.57–2.66; p = 0.60) and 6.0 (0.93, 0.32–2.68; p = 0.89). Interpretation: Both medications strongly suppress RAW events and, in the short term, the risk of achieving PIRA events, EDSS 4.0 and 6.0 milestones is not significantly different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to describe individual training characteristics, racing strategies, and periodization in preparation for the Tour de France in 2 world-class road cyclists finishing in the top 5 of the general classification. Methods: Week‐by‐week power meter training and racing data of 2 (A and B) road cyclists (age: 29 and 23 y; maximum oxygen consumption: 83 and 81 mL·min−1·kg−1; and relative 20‐min record power output: 6.9 and 6.5 W·kg−1) in the preparation phase (December–July/August) leading up to the Tour de France were retrospectively analyzed. Weekly volume and intensity distribution in power zones were considered. Results: Cyclists A and B completed 46 and 19 races, 22.5 (6.3) and 18.2 (5.1) h·wk−1, with a pyramidal intensity distribution of 81.0%–13.3%–5.7%, and 88.8%–7.9%–3.3% in zone 1–zone 2–zone 3. Cyclist B spent 14 days at altitude. Increased high-intensity volume and polarization index occurred during race weeks. During periods without racing, training intensity progressively increased. Strength training was performed during November and December but not during the following months. During tapering, total exercise volume and time at high intensity decreased. Conclusion: These data provide novel insights into the periodization of world-class road cyclists in advance of a top 5 placing in the Tour de France general classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We perform molecular dynamics simulations of TIP4P/Ice water in solution with trehalose for 3.65 and 18.57 wt. % concentrations and of bulk TIP4P/Ice water at ambient pressure, to characterize the structure and dynamics of water in a sugar aqueous solution in the supercooled region. We find here that TIP4P/Ice water in solution with trehalose molecules follows the Mode Coupling Theory and undergoes a fragile to strong transition up to the highest concentration investigated, similar to the bulk. Moreover, we perform a Mode Coupling Theory test, showing that the Time Temperature Superposition principle holds for both bulk TIP4P/Ice water and for TIP4P/Ice water in the solutions and we calculate the exponents of the theory. The direct comparison of the dynamical results for bulk water and water in the solutions shows upon cooling along the isobar a fastening of water dynamics for lower temperatures, T < 240 K. We found that the counter-intuitive behavior for the low temperature solutions can be explained with the diffusion anomaly of water leading us to the conclusion that the fastening observed below T = 240 K in water dynamics is only fictitious, due to the fact that the density of water molecules in the solutions is higher than the density of the bulk at the same temperature and pressure. This result should be taken into account in experimental investigations which are often carried out at constant pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the thermodynamic behavior of sodium perchlorate solutions in supercooled water through molecular dynamics numerical simulations. These solutions are of special interest because of the recent experimental results that led to hypothesize the presence of liquid water in perchlorate solutions beneath the Martian soil. We model water using the TIP4P/2005 potential. The results we obtain for solutions with concentrations 1.63 and 15.4 wt% are in agreement with those of a system undergoing a liquid–liquid phase transition where the liquid–liquid critical point shifts to slightly higher temperatures and lower pressures. The structure of the system is also analyzed, and we come to the conclusion that, even at the highest concentration considered, water retains its anomalous behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) patients often exhibit a wide range of cognitive deficits. Therefore, therapeutic approaches should aim not only to prevent cognitive decline but also to promote cognitive improvement. Objective: This study aimed to explore the effects of natalizumab (NTZ) on cognitive function, as measured by the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), in both POMS and adult-onset multiple sclerosis (AOMS) patients. Method: A total of 63 patients (34 AOMS and 29 POMS) were enrolled in this retrospective, single-center study. Patients were clinically and radiologically assessed every 6 months, and they completed the SDMT at baseline and after at least 24 months of follow-up. SDMT values were reported as corrected values (cSDMT) and z-scores (zSDMT). Annualized cSDMT and zSDMT scores were calculated by dividing the change in scores by the length of the follow-up period (expressed in years). Results: Both POMS and AOMS groups showed improvement in annualized cSDMT and zSDMT scores, but the improvement was significantly greater in the POMS group compared to the AOMS group (+3.85 ± 4.32 vs. +1.76 ± 2.80, p = 0.010 for cSDMT; 0.41 ± 0.40 vs. 0.25 ± 0.34, p = 0.026 for zSDMT). After re-baselining at 6 months, 93% of POMS patients (27 patients) and 85.3% of AOMS patients (29 patients, p = 0.84) achieved NEDA-3 (no evidence of disease activity). The NEDA-3 status, along with clinical and demographic parameters at baseline, did not account for the observed SDMT improvement. Conclusion: The favorable clinical, radiological, and neuropsychological outcomes observed in this study support the use of natalizumab as a viable treatment option in POMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supermassive black holes (SMBHs) can grow through both accretion and mergers. It is still unclear how SMBHs evolve under these two channels from high redshifts to the SMBH population we observe in the local Universe. Observations can directly constrain the accretion channel but cannot effectively constrain mergers yet, while cosmological simulations provide galaxy merger information but can hardly return accretion properties consistent with observations. In this work, we combine the observed accretion channel and the simulated merger channel, taking advantage of observations and cosmological simulations, to depict a realistic evolution pattern of the SMBH population. With this methodology, we can derive the scaling relation between the black hole mass (M BH) and host-galaxy stellar mass (M ⋆), and the local black hole mass function (BHMF). Our scaling relation is lower than those based on dynamically measured M BH, supporting the claim that dynamically measured SMBH samples may be biased. We show that the scaling relation has little redshift evolution. The BHMF steadily increases from z = 4 to z = 1 and remains largely unchanged from z = 1 to z = 0. The overall SMBH growth is generally dominated by the accretion channel, with possible exceptions at high mass (M BH ≳ 108 M ⊙ or M ⋆ ≳ 1011 M ⊙) and low redshift (z ≲ 1). We also predict that around 25% of the total SMBH mass budget in the local Universe may be locked within long-lived, wandering SMBHs, and the wandering mass fraction and wandering SMBH counts increase with M ⋆. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over 70% of pharmaceutical compounds face the challenge of poor water solubility, which impacts on their bioavailability. This study focuses on the use of Santa Barbara Amorphous‐15 (SBA‐15) mesoporous silica material as carrier, which is synthesized and characterized to address this limitation. Albendazole (ABZ), an antiparasitic agent with low water solubility, serves as model drug. A Box‐Behnken design (BBD) is used to investigate the impact of immersion method loading factors (temperature: 25–50 °C, time: 24–72 h, and SBA‐15 amount: 83.2–252.0 mg) on drug loading percentage (DL%) and dissolution efficiency (DE%). The ABZ loading is confirmed by elemental analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Stability tests are performed, comparing drug dissolution profiles and X‐ray diffraction patterns immediately after loading and after 12 months of storage at 25 °C and 60% relative humidity (RH%). DL% varies between 18% and 36% (w/w), showing that the amount of SBA‐15 is the most significant factor on DL%. The lowest SBA‐15 amount yielded the highest DL%. Regarding DE%, all the design samples exhibit higher values than pure ABZ, with the amount of SBA‐15 being the primary influencing factor. Several samples from the BBD show high DE% (>70%) corresponding to high DL% values. After 12 months, most samples maintain similar dissolution profiles, demonstrating the good stability of the drug in the carrier over time. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing the loading process to enhance ABZ solubility and long‐term stability using mesoporous SBA‐15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Browning reactions caused by oxidative stress occurring during postharvest procedures significantly compromise the quality of ready‐to‐eat (RTE) vegetables, negatively affecting their market value. Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) are two major enzymes involved in this phenomenon, as they oxidize phenolic compounds to quinones, which in turn polymerize to brown pigments. Recently, there has been an increasing interest in developing antibrowning treatments using food by‐products. Herein, the efficiency of a kiwi peel extract in reducing enzymatic browning of minimally processed lettuce (Lactuca sativa) has been investigated. PPO and POD activities showed an opposite spatial distribution within the leaf, with a higher POD activity in the midvein (MV) and in the inner lamina tissues, and a prevalence of PPO activity in the mesophyll. Considering that MV lignified tissues are those mainly affected by browning, the temporal trend of POD activity over a 20‐day storage period at 4°C was investigated. Data showed that treatment with a kiwi peel extract hinders both the increasing trend of POD activity and browning development compared to control leaves. These results could be potentially useful for the industry as they confirm that natural extracts, such as kiwi peel extract, can be valuable for extending the shelf‐life of RTE products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A defining aspect of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessment reports (AR) is a formal uncertainty language framework that emphasizes higher certainty issues across the reports, especially in the executive summaries and short summaries for policymakers. As a result, potentially significant risks involving understudied components of the climate system are shielded from view. Methods: Here we seek to address this in the latest, sixth assessment report (AR6) for one such component—the deep ocean—by summarizing major uncertainties (based on discussions of low confidence issues or gaps) regarding its role in our changing climate system. The goal is to identify key research priorities to improve IPCC confidence levels in deep ocean systems and facilitate the dissemination of IPCC results regarding potentially high impact deep ocean processes to decision-makers. This will accelerate improvement of global climate projections and aid in informing efforts to mitigate climate change impacts. An analysis of 3,000 pages across the six selected AR6 reports revealed 219 major science gaps related to the deep ocean. These were categorized by climate stressor and nature of impacts. Results: Half of these are biological science gaps, primarily surrounding our understanding of changes in ocean ecosystems, fisheries, and primary productivity. The remaining science gaps are related to uncertainties in the physical (32%) and biogeochemical (15%) ocean states and processes. Model deficiencies are the leading cited cause of low certainty in the physical ocean and ice states, whereas causes of biological uncertainties are most often attributed to limited studies and observations or conflicting results. Discussion: Key areas for coordinated effort within the deep ocean observing and modeling community have emerged, which will improve confidence in the deep ocean state and its ongoing changes for the next assessment report. This list of key "known unknowns" includes meridional overturning circulation, ocean deoxygenation and acidification, primary production, food supply and the ocean carbon cycle, climate change impacts on ocean ecosystems and fisheries, and ocean-based climate interventions. From these findings, we offer recommendations for AR7 to avoid omitting low confidence-high risk changes in the climate system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aims to establish a consensus-based standard protocol for transanal irrigation (TAI) in patients with low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) and functional constipation. Methods: The Delphi method was utilized to reach a consensus among clinicians and nurses expert in the field of colorectal surgery and gastroenterology. To address various uncertainties concerning technical aspects, difficulties, and prescription of TAI, two questionnaires were developed and analyzed in two rounds. A binary approach was employed, setting a consensus threshold of 75% agreement. Results: In the first round, nurses achieved consensus on all statements, while clinicians required a second round to reach consensus, particularly regarding prescription and technical aspects. Clinicians reached consensus on prescribing TAI as a second-line treatment for LARS and functional constipation, following the failure of conservative measures such as dietary and lifestyle interventions. Timing considerations for patients with LARS encompass avoiding TAI within 1 month of stoma closure and waiting a minimum of 3 months. For functional constipation, TAI is recommended for slow transit constipation, emphasizing its preference over surgical options. Consensus was also reached on the choice of catheter for patients with LARS, training requirements for patients and caregivers, preparation of the patient's intestine before TAI, and recommended irrigations. Conclusions: This consensus study successfully developed a standardized TAI protocol for LARS and functional constipation. It provides comprehensive guidelines for prescription and technical aspects, addressing the challenges encountered by healthcare professionals. The protocol aims to enhance patient care, improve treatment outcomes, and contribute to the advancement of TAI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although primarily studied in relation to photorespiration, serine metabolism in chloroplasts may play a key role in plant CO2 fertilization responses by linking CO2 assimilation with growth. Here, we show that the phosphorylated serine pathway is part of a 'photosynthetic C1 pathway' and demonstrate its high activity in foliage of a C3 tree where it rapidly integrates photosynthesis and C1 metabolism contributing to new biomass via methyl transfer reactions, imparting a large natural 13C-depleted signature. Using 13CO2-labelling, we show that leaf serine, the S-methyl group of leaf methionine, pectin methyl esters, and the associated methanol released during cell wall expansion during growth, are directly produced from photosynthetically-linked C1 metabolism, within minutes of light exposure. We speculate that the photosynthetic C1 pathway is highly conserved across the photosynthetic tree of life, is responsible for synthesis of the greenhouse gas methane, and may have evolved with oxygenic photosynthesis by providing a mechanism of directly linking carbon and ammonia assimilation with growth. Although the rise in atmospheric CO2 inhibits major metabolic pathways like photorespiration, our results suggest that the photosynthetic C1 pathway may accelerate and represents a missing link between enhanced photosynthesis and plant growth rates during CO2 fertilization under a changing climate. A photosynthetic C1 pathway starting with CO2 and NH3 assimilation and ending with methionine synthesis is highly active in foliage of a C3 tree, where it rapidly integrates photosynthesis and C1 metabolism contributing to new biomass via methyl transfer reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition from traditional wastewater treatment plants to biorefineries represents an environmentally and economically sustainable approach to extracting valuable compounds from waste. Sewage sludge produced from wastewater treatment is incinerated or disposed of in specific landfills. Repurposing this waste material to recover valuable resources could help lower disposal costs and reduce environmental impact by producing other beneficial polymers. Microorganisms present in the sewage sludge can ferment organic pollutants, producing volatile fatty acids (VFA), precursors for biopolymers that could be used as an alternative to petroleum-derived plastics. To boost VFA production during sewage sludge fermentation, it is necessary to understand the operating microbial community and its metabolic capacities in anaerobic conditions. This study presents the influence of the headspace volume on the microbial community and the VFA production to define the best operational parameters in a 225 L pilot plant fermenter. The wasted sewage sludge was withdrawn from an oxic-settling-anaerobic plant that collected wastewater from the canteen and dormitory of the UNIPA Campus (Palermo University, Italy) and incubated using a 40% and a 60% headspace volume. The microbial community was analysed before and after the fermentation process through metataxonomic analysis, and VFA yields were determined by gas chromatography analysis. Our results showed that the 40% headspace volume induced a tenfold higher VFA production than the 60% headspace volume, modulating the microbial community's efforts to establish a VFA-producing factory. Notably, at 40% headspace, the relative abundance of bacteria, like Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Chloroflexi, significantly increased, as well as the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and Verrucomicrobia decreased during the fermentation process. This result is consistent with the selection of efficient VFA-producing bacteria that lead to increased VFA yields that are not obtained at 60% headspace. Thus, reducing headspace is a promising strategy that can be implemented, even in full-scale plants, to optimise the wastewater reuse process and maximise VFA production to produce bioplastics, like polyhydroxyalkanoate, for the transition from linear wastewater treatment plants to circular biorefineries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to understand if buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) services, a digital type of credit that targets young consumers, acts as a protective or a risk factor for food insecurity among young consumers in Australia. Design/methodology/approach: The study uses survey data from a representative sample of young consumers aged 18–24 from all internal states and territories in Australia. Propensity score matching is used to test two hypotheses: BNPL drives young consumers to food insecurity, and food insecurity leads young consumers to use BNPL. Findings: There is evidence that BNPL use is driving young Australian consumers to experience food insecurity, but there is no evidence of food insecurity driving the use of BNPL services. Practical implications: The evidence of BNPL driving young consumers to experience food insecurity calls for the adoption of practices and stronger regulation to ensure that young users from being overindebted. Originality/value: Although the link with more traditional forms of credit (such as personal loans) and consumer wellbeing has been explored more broadly, this project is the first attempt to have causal evidence of the link between BNPL and food insecurity in a high-income country, to the best of the authors' knowledge. This evidence helps to fill the gap about the protective or risky nature of this type of digital financial product, as experienced by young Australians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Synchronous telehealth (ST) consists of the remote real-time delivery of health services. COVID-19 pandemic has pressed the use of ST and forced neurologists to deliver telehealth services. The aim of this study was to obtain the actual picture of ST accessibility/interest and to evaluate the user satisfaction in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The study consisted of two phases. First, a hard-copy questionnaire ("Telehealth Identity Card" [TIC]), including only yes/no questions, filled in the presence of a neurologist, and investigating the technical/practical access and the willingness/interest of MS patients to the telehealth services, was obtained from 600 consecutive outpatients, with no time limit for answering. Second, a fully filled "Televisit Satisfaction Questionnaire" (TSQ) was obtained from 100 consecutive patients that underwent a televisit. Statistical analysis applied the t test for normally distributed variables and the Mann–Whitney U test for ordinal. Logistic univariate and multivariate regressions were applied to predict televisit availability on the base of demographic variables. Results: Statistical analysis was performed on 552/600 consecutive TIC (92%). Of them, 464/552 (84%) of the MS patients declared to possess the tools and to be interested in telehealth services. Compared with noninterested patients, they were younger (mean age: 44.0 vs. 49.8, p < 0.001) and with lower disability (mean Expanded Disability Status Scale: 2.5 vs. 3.3, p < 0.01). From TSQ, it emerged that 95% agree or strongly agree that televisit respected timelines, saved time and money, was conducted with respect to privacy, can be a useful tool for monitoring disease and therapy, and expressed their availability for further televisits. Discussion: A great majority of MS patients living in Padua Province were interested in telehealth. High satisfaction and the willingness for further televist were expressed. Telehealth services can help neurologists to manage the increasing number of MS patients and their complex therapeutic monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic performance of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in characterizing small renal masses (SRMs) measuring less than 3 cm and in distinguishing between malignant and benign SRMs. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted between January 2022 and January 2023 at the Radiology Department of (Anonymized data), with a total of 43 patients assessed via CT and MRI scans, which were subsequently studied by experienced radiologists who were blinded to the pathology results. The CEUS findings were then compared with histopathological examination outcomes or follow-up imaging results. Results: The study results revealed a notably high level of diagnostic accuracy, with sensitivity at 0.875, specificity at 0.94, positive predictive value at 0.95, and negative predictive value at 0.86 for characterizing SRMs. Spearman rank correlation analysis substantiated a robust positive linear correlation between the CEUS findings and biopsy results (r = 0.972). Conclusions: These findings underscore the potential utility of CEUS as a valuable tool for discriminating between malignant and benign SRMs, carrying significant implications for clinical decision-making and leading to improved patient outcomes. However, larger validation studies are imperative to establish its role in routine clinical practice and to address potential limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Western diet is associated with chronic disease risk, and degree of dietary acculturation can impact susceptibility. This study sought to understand the factors associated with changes in food consumption habits among international students at a large public university in the southern US. Participants: A convenience sample of 173 international students representing 41 countries at The University of Georgia participated in the survey. Methods: This cross-sectional online survey assessed dietary habits, perception of healthy eating, and level of acculturation using previously validated measures. Results: Highest number of participants were from China (19.2%), 89.0% were graduate students with an average age of 27.5 ± 4.83 years. The majority (62.0%) of participants were dietary acculturated with affordability and accessibility determining types of food consumption, as fewer whole foods and more processed foods were consumed in the U.S. Conclusions: Findings suggest dietary acculturation may be driven by economic factors, making the transition to Westernized food items a convenient and cost-effective choice among international students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The grasslands and shrub areas of the Patagonian steppe are the most frequent habitat for the "Near Threatened" armadillo, known as pichi (Zaedyus pichiy). Dense exotic conifer plantations are replacing the steppe in Argentinean northern Patagonia. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of conifer afforestation on the occurrence and food availability in a Z. pichiy population in north-western Patagonia. Fifteen sites in the native steppe and 50 in exotic pine plantations were sampled. We recorded the number of signs of pichi's presence and the diversity of invertebrates. Signs of Z. pichiy presence decreased in pine afforestation compared to the native steppe. Additionally, we found a decrease in the abundance, richness, diversity, and biomass of arthropods in pine plantations. Therefore, the presence of pine plantations in the steppe reduces the main food items of Z. pichiy and also eliminates the native steppe vegetation structure that provides preferred places to dig burrows. Pine monocultures do not provide a suitable habitat for Z. pichiy and may exacerbate the degradation of an already disturbed environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Women at risk of carrying a genetic mutation report higher levels of distress compared to the general population. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mediating role of psychophysical stress in the relationship of anxiety and depression with quality of life and well-being in women undergoing genetic counseling for BRCA1/2 mutations. The results indicate that psychophysical stress, generated by emotional distress, significantly influences the perceived mental well-being and overall psychophysical health. This paper emphasizes the need for integrated care, addressing psychological distress alongside physical health and recognizing the multifaceted impact of hereditary breast cancer screening on patients' overall quality of life and well-being. Background: Women undergoing genetic counseling for hereditary breast cancer often experience a high emotional burden. Distress and stress in the initial phases of genetic counseling can be significant predictors of long-term psychological health, influencing quality of life and well-being. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the mediating role of psychophysical stress in the relationship of anxiety and depression with quality of life and well-being in women undergoing genetic counseling for BRCA1/2 mutations. Methods: A sample of 193 women from two genetic counseling clinics was assessed using validated questionnaires measuring the psychological variables under study. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were also considered. Results: The results of path analyses indicated a mediating role of psychophysical stress on the relationship between emotional distress and mental quality of life and well-being: higher levels of anxiety and depression were associated with increased psychophysical stress, which, in turn, was linked to a reduced perceived mental quality of life and well-being. Depression was the only significant psychological predictor of physical quality of life. Conclusions: These findings indicate that addressing both anxiety and depression in genetic counseling is crucial for enhancing mental and overall well-being. Interventions should focus on stress management to improve the quality of life, emphasizing depression treatment to enhance physical health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saliva is crucial in maintaining oral health; its composition reflects the body's physiological and diseased state. Among salivary components, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) stand out for their broad antimicrobial activities and role in modulating the oral microbiota and innate immune response. Local and systemic diseases can affect the levels of AMPs in saliva, making them attractive biomarkers. However, the large variability in their concentrations hampers their use in diagnostics. Knowledge of the various factors influencing the profile of salivary AMPs is essential for their use as biomarkers. Here, we examine how lifestyle factors such as physical activity, dietary supplementation, tobacco smoking, and psychological stress impact salivary AMP levels. By understanding these sources of variability, we can take a step forward in using AMPs for diagnostics and prognostics and develop new tailored and preventative approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A great number of free radicals have a negative impact on the human body, and an increased interest in the identification of new natural molecules with antioxidant properties has emerged due to concerns about synthetic antioxidants. Here, the antioxidant effect of four exo-polysaccharides (EPS) extracts obtained from submerged cultivation of Nothophellinus andinopatagonicus and Pseudoinonotus crustosus (N and P, respectively) in two culture media (M1 and M2) at 2 concentrations (100 and 250 µg/ml) was studied; then, its relation with the chemical composition of the EPS was evaluated. To assess the antioxidant activities of the extracts, several in vitro assays were performed: DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging, ferric-reducing antioxidant power, chelating ability on ferrous ions, and inhibition of the lipid peroxidation. The concentrations tested here were much lower than those reported in previous works. Despite variations in chemical composition and monosaccharide profiles among the extracts, all demonstrated antioxidant activity, although the type of activity differed; only P-M1 exhibited a good antioxidant activity across all assays. This extract contained the highest proportion of phenolic compounds, and also displayed the highest radical scavenging activity. Although the utilization of polysaccharides as functional food ingredients remains limited, we propose P-M1 as a promising candidate for a nutraceutical product. Additionally, a formulation could be made with a combination of extracts to create an antioxidant-rich supplement. Additional research is needed to confirm our findings in a cellular environment and to elucidate the mechanisms that drive their antioxidant activities, ultimately facilitating their development and utilization as nutraceutical products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Categories have gained new centrality in migration studies, highlighting the importance of critically approaching policy labels and considering categories as a lens rather than a pre-determined analytical toolkit. This Special Issue (SI) brings together migration scholars of different disciplinary backgrounds from the Global South and North. This article introduces the SI with a theoretically driven discussion of migration categories, hopefully inspiring further research and orienting newcomers to the field. Current studies have what we term sub-field confinement, one-dimensionality and context-related perspectival limitations. Bridging migration subfields, empirically apprehending the disconnections between policy and experiential dimensions of labelling and de-centring Global North analyses are key to understanding the socio-cultural life of migration categories. Further comparative and interdisciplinary research is necessary, given the topic's rising importance in migration studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes academic displacement as a lens to analyse interconnections between skilled and forced migration, and discusses the policy, work and subjective dimensions of the phenomenon. The analysis suggests that policy construction of academic displacement is framed around a temporal oxymoron between short-term emergency intervention and long-term expectations around 'rescued' scholars' capacity to engage in scientific excellence. It also rests on an individualistic interpretation of academic freedom. Differently, displaced scholars reassert the importance of the communitarian dimension of academic freedom. Being represented as exceptional/temporary guests risks bordering them from both their home academic community and their European 'host'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consider the following simple parking process on Λ n : = { - n , … , n } d , d ≥ 1 : at each step, a site i is chosen at random in Λ n and if i and all its nearest neighbor sites are empty, i is occupied. Once occupied, a site remains so forever. The process continues until all sites in Λ n are either occupied or have at least one of their nearest neighbors occupied. The final configuration (occupancy) of Λ n is called the jamming limit and is denoted by X Λ n . Ritchie (J Stat Phys 122:381–398, 2006) constructed a stationary random field on Z d obtained as a (thermodynamic) limit of the X Λ n ’s as n tends to infinity. As a consequence of his construction, he proved a strong law of large numbers for the proportion of occupied sites in the box Λ n for the random field X. Here we prove the central limit theorem, the law of iterated logarithm, and a gaussian concentration inequality for the same statistics. A particular attention will be given to the case d = 1 , in which we also obtain new asymptotic properties for the sequence X Λ n , n ≥ 1 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Poor anthropometric data quality affect the prevalence of malnutrition and could harm public policy planning. Objective This systematic review and meta-analysis was designed to identify different methods to evaluate and clean anthropometric data, and to calculate the frequency of implausible values for weight and height obtained from these methodologies. Data Sources Studies about anthropometric data quality and/or anthropometric data cleaning were searched for in the MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases in October 2020 and updated in January 2023. In addition, references of included studies were searched for the identification of potentially eligible studies. Data Extraction Paired researchers selected studies, extracted data, and critically appraised the selected publications. Data Analysis Meta-analysis of the frequency of implausible values and 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated. Heterogeneity (I 2) and publication bias were examined by meta-regression and funnel plot, respectively. Results In the qualitative synthesis, 123 reports from 104 studies were included, and in the quantitative synthesis, 23 studies of weight and 14 studies of height were included. The study reports were published between 1980 and 2022. The frequency of implausible values for weight was 0.55% (95%CI, 0.29–0.91) and for height was 1.20% (95%CI, 0.44–2.33). Heterogeneity was not affected by the methodological quality score of the studies and publication bias was discarded. Conclusions Height had twice the frequency of implausible values compared with weight. Using a set of indicators of quality to evaluate anthropometric data is better than using indicators singly. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020208977. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial discusses the need for a more integrative approach to address contemporary socio-ecological challenges in urban spaces by recognizing nature's agency and potential partnership with human societies. It emphasizes the importance of fostering innovative and inclusive solutions to create diverse urban spaces that support resilient and sustainable futures. The research topic explores various perspectives on nature's role in urban systems, advocating for a paradigm shift towards more collaborative and inclusive efforts to design urban areas that promote ecological and emotional value for all residents. [Extracted from the article]

Even though Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) has become a central domain in education, there is still a lack of clarity in the underlying conceptual models guiding educational efforts and insufficient empirical evidence supporting these models. The Chilean Agency for Quality in Education developed a socioemotional questionnaire as part of the Comprehensive Learning Diagnosis (DIA), administered in educational institutions nationwide. Its underlying conceptual model considers nine SEL competencies structured into three dimensions: Individual, Communal, and Civic, mapping onto the Chilean educational curriculum and learning goals relative to SEL. Even though this model was built based on a thorough revision of existing approaches to SEL and assessment tools, this dimensional structure has not been empirically tested. This study explores a dimensional model of SEL based on a large‐scale sample of Chilean students assessed through the DIA (882,553 7th–12th graders). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were conducted to determine the dimensional structure, also testing for invariance by educational level (basic vs. secondary education) and gender. EFA evidenced a three‐dimensional structure, with factors labeled as individual, relational, and socio‐moral based on their composition. CFA confirmed these dimensions with adequate fit indices. Factorial invariance of the identified model was found between basic and secondary school students, and between boys and girls. The study allowed for the construction of a theoretical model of SEL based on a large‐scale sample. The identification of a moral factor as a key dimension of SEL constitutes a novel and promising perspective, in line with recent research providing new insights into SEL. Further evidence regarding the reliability and validity of the instrument should be analyzed. Also, the proposed SEL model should be tested in different countries and populations to broaden our understanding of SEL and inform educational policies and practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecosystem restoration, recognized as a critical strategy for climate change adaptation and mitigation, faces significant challenges in achieving widespread implementation. A particular facet of this challenge lies in the active involvement of rural landowners. Our study aimed to understand rural landowners' perspectives, motivations, and characteristics that influence their participation in restoration projects in the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil. Qualitative content analysis was conducted on 68 semi‐structured interviews with two groups of landowners: 36 who received support and 32 who did not receive project support from a local non‐governmental organization to restore native forests on their landholdings. Approximately three‐quarters of the sample are classified as smallholders (<80 ha). The main difference between the two groups is the dependence on agricultural production as the main source of income, with 22% of farmers in the supported group and 72% in the unsupported group. This socio‐economic characteristic appeared to influence the decision to restore native forest. Farmers' focus tends to be linked to rural production, and the main obstacle to restoration was the loss of productive land. They usually allow natural forest regeneration to establish on slopes. The other type of landowner (lifestylers) mainly restored land through planting of seedlings, with the main barrier being the cost of restoration. Both groups had water conservation as their main motivation for restoration. Our study shows that understanding the perspectives and motivations of the diversity of rural landowners is crucial to effectively engage them and address the socio‐economic feasibility of different restoration approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Occlusal splints are the main therapeutic choice in the treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). However, their precise working mechanism is unclear. This study aimed to compare the biomechanical effect of three commercially available splint designs (full covering splint, anterior bite splint and posterior bite splint) during biting in a sample of healthy subjects. Materials and methods: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was combined with jaw tracking to measure the minimal intraarticular distance (MID) of 20 human temporomandibular joints (TMJ) whilst simultaneously recording the electromyogram (EMG) of the masticatory muscles. The changes caused by clenching with a bite force of 100 N without splint (baseline) and on each splint were calculated. Repeated measures ANOVA was performed on the means of the MID variations and EMG amplitudes. Results: Clenching on the anterior bite splint resulted in two times less activation of the anterior temporalis muscle than baseline (p = 0.003), full covering (p = 0.011) and posterior bite splint (p = 0.011). MID was reduced by clenching in all conditions, but the reduction was almost three times larger with the anterior bite splint compared to no splint (p = 0.011). The full covering splint and the posterior bite splint did not differ significantly in EMG activation of both masseter and temporalis muscles and MID variation. Conclusions: This study showed that splint designs have a different impact on the MID and EMG activation while clenching. The anterior bite splint had a greater impact on the reduction of the muscle activation, whereas clenching on the anterior bite splint led to bigger reduction of MID and thus had the greatest influence on alteration in the condylar position. Clinical relevance: The design of the splint can affect MID and muscle activation and is a variable to consider in the treatment of patients with TMD according to their symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Occlusal splints are the main therapeutic choice in the treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). However, their precise working mechanism is unclear. This study aimed to compare the biomechanical effect of three commercially available splint designs (full covering splint, anterior bite splint and posterior bite splint) during biting in a sample of healthy subjects. Materials and methods: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was combined with jaw tracking to measure the minimal intraarticular distance (MID) of 20 human temporomandibular joints (TMJ) whilst simultaneously recording the electromyogram (EMG) of the masticatory muscles. The changes caused by clenching with a bite force of 100 N without splint (baseline) and on each splint were calculated. Repeated measures ANOVA was performed on the means of the MID variations and EMG amplitudes. Results: Clenching on the anterior bite splint resulted in two times less activation of the anterior temporalis muscle than baseline (p = 0.003), full covering (p = 0.011) and posterior bite splint (p = 0.011). MID was reduced by clenching in all conditions, but the reduction was almost three times larger with the anterior bite splint compared to no splint (p = 0.011). The full covering splint and the posterior bite splint did not differ significantly in EMG activation of both masseter and temporalis muscles and MID variation. Conclusions: This study showed that splint designs have a different impact on the MID and EMG activation while clenching. The anterior bite splint had a greater impact on the reduction of the muscle activation, whereas clenching on the anterior bite splint led to bigger reduction of MID and thus had the greatest influence on alteration in the condylar position. Clinical relevance: The design of the splint can affect MID and muscle activation and is a variable to consider in the treatment of patients with TMD according to their symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The editorial discusses the challenges in managing metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) and the need for innovative treatments due to a low five-year survival rate. Recent advancements in treatment, such as the combination of Trifluridine and Tipiracil with bevacizumab, have shown promise in improving outcomes for patients. The article also highlights the importance of surgical interventions, including minimally invasive techniques, in treating mCRC with liver involvement. Additionally, the text emphasizes the significance of personalized medicine and immunotherapy in transforming the future of mCRC treatment. [Extracted from the article]

Protein aggregation plays key roles in age-related degenerative diseases, but how different proteins coalesce to form inclusions that vary in composition, morphology, molecular dynamics and confer physiological consequences is poorly understood. Here we employ a general reporter based on mutant Hsp104 to identify proteins forming aggregates in human cells under common proteotoxic stress. We identify over 300 proteins that form different inclusions containing subsets of aggregating proteins. In particular, TDP43, implicated in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), partitions dynamically between two distinct types of aggregates: stress granule and a previously unknown non-dynamic (solid-like) inclusion at the ER exit sites (ERES). TDP43-ERES co-aggregation is induced by diverse proteotoxic stresses and observed in the motor neurons of ALS patients. Such aggregation causes retention of secretory cargos at ERES and therefore delays ER-to-Golgi transport, providing a link between TDP43 aggregation and compromised cellular function in ALS patients. Protein aggregation has been implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases. Here, Wu et al. utilized a general aggregate reporter to identify aggregation-prone proteins and discover that TDP43 aggregates at ER-exit sites (ERES) under proteotoxic stress and impairs ER-to-Golgi transport, linking TDP43 aggregation and ER dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed at evaluating how sires, classified for their additive genetic effects on residual feed intake (RFI) of ad libitum-fed progeny, influence growth performance, tissue accretion, and gain composition in restricted-fed offspring (96–168 kg body weight, BW). A total of 416 purebred C21 Goland pigs, offspring of 23 sires, were randomly allocated to three feeding groups: ad libitum, restricted medium-protein, or restricted low-protein. Empty BW, body lipid mass and body protein mass were estimated from individual BW and backfat measures using literature equations. Residuals of a linear regression of average daily feed intake on average empty BW, body lipid and protein daily gains were used as estimates of individual RFI in ad libitum-fed pigs. Additive genetic effects of sires on RFI of ad libitum-fed pigs were estimated with a linear animal model and solutions of the model were used to allocate the sires to low- (LRFI), medium- (MRFI), or high-RFI (HRFI) groups. Restricted-fed progeny of LRFI sires exhibited reduced average daily feed intake (-3%) compared to MRFI and HRFI progeny. This indicates that LRFI progeny make a more efficient use of energy intake and implies that variation in RFI across families, assessed under ad libitum feeding, is related to the across-family variation in feed efficiency detected under restricted feeding. LRFI progeny exhibited also a lower feed conversion ratio (-11%), partially resulting from of a 3% increase in growth rate compared with HRFI. Thus, LRFI progeny consumed less feed, while growing at a similar or slightly higher rate than MRFI or HRFI. No significant differences across sire classes were observed for daily tissue accretion and gain composition. Hence, we can hypothesise that efficient sires would not affect carcass leanness of heavy pig progeny fed restricted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defining the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac resilience is crucial to find effective approaches to protect the heart. A physiologic level of ROS is produced in the heart by fatty acid oxidation, but stressful events can boost ROS and cause mitochondrial dysfunction and cardiac functional impairment. Melusin is a muscle specific chaperone required for myocardial compensatory remodeling during stress. Here we report that Melusin localizes in mitochondria where it binds the mitochondrial trifunctional protein, a key enzyme in fatty acid oxidation, and decreases it activity. Studying both mice and human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes, we found that Melusin reduces lipid oxidation in the myocardium and limits ROS generation in steady state and during pressure overload and doxorubicin treatment, preventing mitochondrial dysfunction. Accordingly, the treatment with the lipid oxidation inhibitor Trimetazidine concomitantly with stressful stimuli limits ROS accumulation and prevents long-term heart dysfunction. These findings disclose a physiologic mechanism of metabolic regulation in the heart and demonstrate that a timely restriction of lipid metabolism represents a potential therapeutic strategy to improve cardiac resilience to stress. Synopsis: FAO is catalyzed by the mitochondrial trifunctional protein (MTP) and, if overloaded, generates ROS. ROS are boosted during stressful events, favoring cardiac maladaptive remodeling. Melusin is a muscle-specific chaperone able to sustain heart resilience during a wide variety of stressful insults. Melusin interacts and inhibits the MTP, restraining FAO and ROS generation in the myocardium. Heart resilience depends on the rate of FAO during stressful events occurrence. Inhibiting lipid metabolism in a timely manner during stress protects the heart from dysfunction and prolongs the survival in preclinical models. FAO is catalyzed by the mitochondrial trifunctional protein (MTP) and, if overloaded, generates ROS. ROS are boosted during stressful events, favoring cardiac maladaptive remodeling. Melusin is a muscle-specific chaperone able to sustain heart resilience during a wide variety of stressful insults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial discusses the need for a more integrative approach to address contemporary socio-ecological challenges in urban spaces by recognizing nature's agency and potential partnership with human societies. It emphasizes the importance of fostering innovative and inclusive solutions to create diverse urban spaces that support resilient and sustainable futures. The research topic explores various perspectives on nature's role in urban systems, advocating for a paradigm shift towards more collaborative, inclusive, and sustainable urban environments that value diverse knowledge systems and perspectives. [Extracted from the article]