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Abstract Existing toolkits for analyzing movement dynamics in animal ecology primarily focus on individual or group behavior in habitats without predefined boundaries, while methods for studying human activity often cater to bounded environments, such as team sports played on defined fields. This leaves a gap in tools for modeling and analyzing human group dynamics in large-scale, unbounded, or semi-constrained environments. Examples of such contexts include tourist groups, cycling teams, search and rescue teams, and military units. To address this issue, we survey existing methods and metrics for characterizing individual and collective movement in humans and animals. Using a rich GPS dataset from groups of military personnel engaged in a foot march, we develop a comprehensive, general-purpose toolkit for quantifying group dynamics using location-based metrics during goal-directed movement in open environments. This toolkit includes a repository of Python functions for extracting and analyzing movement data, integrating cognitive factors such as decision-making, situational awareness, and group coordination. By extending location-based analytics to non-traditional domains, this toolkit enhances the understanding of collective movement, group behavior, and emergent properties shaped by cognitive processes. To demonstrate its practical utility, we present a use case utilizing metrics derived from the foot march data to predict group performance during a subsequent strategic and tactical exercise, highlighting the influence of cognitive and decision-making behaviors on team effectiveness.

Background: Metabolic conditions, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), cause changes in immune function that may influence immunotherapy effectiveness and immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Objectives: To investigate the prognostic and predictive effects of BMI and T2DM and investigate the effect of BMI on toxicity using data from the EORTC 1325/KEYNOTE-054 randomised controlled trial. Methods: Pembrolizumab (n = 514) was administered every three weeks for 1 year and prolonged recurrence-free survival (RFS) compared to placebo (n = 505) among patients with resected high-risk stage III melanoma. Here, we used multivariate Cox regression to investigate associations of BMI and T2DM with RFS, and Fine and Gray regression to investigate the association of BMI with the cumulative incidence of irAEs. Results: BMI had an approximately U-shaped association with RFS (p = 0.004) in both treatment arms combined. The RFS hazard ratios (HR)s for BMIs of 20, 30 and 35 kg/m2 (compared to 25 kg/m2) were 1.28 (95 % CI 1.05–1.56), 0.96 (95 % CI 0.88–1.06) and 1.14 (95 % CI 0.98–1.34), respectively. There was no evidence that BMI was associated with pembrolizumab effectiveness (p = 0.20) or the cumulative incidence of irAEs (p = 0.74). T2DM was not associated with RFS (HR 1.01, 95 % CI 0.73–1.40) in both arms combined and there was no evidence of an association between T2DM and pembrolizumab effectiveness (p = 0.83). In summary, in patients with resected high-risk stage III melanoma, BMI was associated with RFS in patients overall and within each treatment group. Conclusions: BMI appeared to confer a prognostic effect but was not predictive of pembrolizumab effectiveness regarding RFS. BMI was not related to irAEs among patients receiving pembrolizumab, while T2DM was not associated with RFS irrespective of treatment.

An immense territory of Russia with several climatic zones and, accordingly, a fundamentally different styles of life, inevitably results in pronounced varieties in the levels and structure of mortality across the regions of the country. Since the scale and sustainability of differences in mortality in Russia can be considered an entire epidemiological epoch, the evaluation of them through the lens of epidemiological transition seems methodologically appropriate. Regional differences are regarded as a kind of projection of evolution in time, though taking into account modern realities. The analysis of regional differences in mortality is based on such indicators as life expectancy, structure of mortality, i.e., predominantly endogenous to exogenous causes of death ratio, as well as the average age of death from predominantly endogenous causes calculated on the basis of life tables by cause of death. The study showed that according to the periodization of epidemiological transition only Moscow and St. Petersburg are at the final phase of the 3rd stage and are moving to the 4th stage of epidemiological development. Meanwhile, the burden of exogenous and preventable pathologies precludes the completion of the 3rd stage in the regions with high life expectancy according to Russian criteria. The stadial nature of epidemiologic development of Russian regions is currently conditioned by socio-economic and medical determinants, with more pressing medical determinants in regions with high and medium levels of life expectancy and socio-economic factors prevailing in regions with low life expectancy.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic polyneuropathy remains a significant and urgent problem in the context of diabetes mellitus, affecting more than a quarter of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Currently, the method of peripheral nerve examination using ultrasound is gaining worldwide popularity. In the Russian Federation, however, it remains widely used only in some medical institutions. The ultrasound method employs the indicator “nerve cross-sectional area” to diagnose this complication, exhibiting a high degree of sensitivity (93%) in comparison to magnetic resonance imaging data (67%). Foreign and Russian studies [3, 4] confirm the observed increase in the cross-sectional area of the nerve in patients with diabetes mellitus. AIM: The study aimed to assess the diagnostic value of the ultrasound method of peripheral nerve examination in the detection of diabetic polyneuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The Philips Epiq 7 ultrasonic diagnostic device (USA) with a linear transducer, operating at a frequency of 4–18 MHz, was used. The comparison group consisted of 30 volunteers. The main group comprised 25 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and confirmed diabetic polyneuropathy, as determined by electroneuromyography and physical examination methods. The median cross-sectional area of the sciatic and common peroneal nerves in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and healthy volunteers was calculated. The criterion for a difference in area values was calculated using the Mann-Whitney test. RESULTS: The cross-sectional area thresholds were determined based on the 95th percentile of a cohort of healthy volunteers. In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, the following median nerve cross-sectional area values were found: for the sciatic nerve, 0.579 cm2 (at the gluteal crease) and 0.553 cm2 (2 cm proximal to the bifurcation); for the common peroneal nerve, 0.11 cm2 (1 cm distal to the bifurcation of the sciatic nerve) and 0.08 cm2 (at the level of the head of the fibula). In healthy volunteers, the values were as follows: for the sciatic nerve, 0.46 cm2 (at the gluteal crease) and 0.37 cm2 (2 cm proximal to the bifurcation); for the common peroneal nerve, 0.08 cm2 (1 cm distal to the bifurcation of the sciatic nerve) and 0.06 cm2 (at the level of the head of the fibula). A significant difference was found between the control and target groups using the Mann-Whitney test (p 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic polyneuropathy, a significant increase in the cross-sectional area of the nerves of the lower extremities (sciatic and peroneal nerves) was revealed, which allows for the use of ultrasound as an additional method for the instrumental diagnosis of diabetic polyneuropathy. However, due to the small sample size, further study is required to confirm these findings.

The paper analyses the age structure of mortality from suicide, injuries with undetermined intent in general, as well as hanging or jumping/falling from heights with undetermined intent as a potential indicator of latent suicides. It is shown that the age profile of suicide mortality has fundamentally changed over the last 30 years: during the 1990s crisis, a sigmoidal mortality curve with a peak in middle age developed among men, while at the height of the crisis, in the mid-1990s, the maximum age-specific mortality rates were observed among the 50-54-year-olds. Fundamental gender differences in the age profile were only noted during the systemic crisis of the 1990s: as Russian men developed a sigmoidal suicide mortality curve, the age profile of mortality of Russian women was characterised by a stable increase in age-specific indicators starting from age 25-29, while in the mid-1990s women, too, experienced a mortality peak among the 50-54-year-olds. In the 2000s, a gradual flattening-out of the mortality peak in middle age and reaching a maximum at old age took place. Post-2010, a further normalisation of the suicide mortality profile with formation of a plateau at working ages was observed. A comparative analysis of the age profile of suicide mortality and mortality from hanging and jumping/falling from heights with undetermined intent corroborated the hypothesis of these causes being a potential reservoir of latent suicide, which raises the suicide losses of men, from 80% among the 15-24-year-olds to 50% in older individuals, while among women the suicide mortality rate doubles at all ages above 15 years.

The introduction to the topic of this issue is an overview of the research articles authored by Russian, Lithuanian, and Indian scholars on various problems of Mahayana Buddhist philosophy. While explaining the status of the terms “Mahāyāna” and “Hīnayāna,” the author emphasizes that since they are represent the apologetic conceptualizations of Mahayanists, the appellation “Hīnayāna” (“Lesser Vehicle”, etc.) is not recognized either by those Buddhists who are supposed to be characterized by it, or by scholars striving for a neutral appellation. This creates difficulties, including the need for a generally accepted designation for this Buddhist tradition. However, despite the apologetic nature of the Mahāyāna - Hīnayāna opposition, the difference between the two is captured very plausibly. The first one teaches about the individual way of achieving liberation from the cycle of endless rebirths (saṃsāra) through a personal, individual self-perfection (the path of the arhat) leading to enlightenment (bodhi) and nirvāṇa (extinction of passions). The second one develops a full-fledged religion with its own pantheon and rituals, in which nirvāṇa and individual liberation, while remaining, more or less theoretically, the ultimate goal, are pushed to a distant plane. At the same time, the idea of compassion and the ideal of bodhisattva who, having taken a vow to help all living beings to get rid of sufferings, continues to remain in saṃsāra, is put forward in the center. However, despite this major difference a Buddhist discipline known as Abhidharma which consists in analysis and classification of discrete states of consciousness (dharmas), identified in meditation, remains a reference point in both traditions. Three authors touch upon it (Helen Ostrovskaya, Pradeep Gokhale, and Vladimir Korobov). Two of them (Ostrovskaya and Gokhale) focus on the problems of murder and death, and the third one (Korobov) dwells on the methodology of Abhidharma. Vladimir Ivanov offers a new interpretation of the structure of Śāntarakṣita’s treatise “Tattva-saṃgraha” with Kamalaśīla’s “Pañjikā” commentary. Yangutov and Lepekhov explore the specificity of Buddhism reception in China, Tibet, Mongolia, and Russia. Nesterkin publishes for the first time B. Baradiin’s theses for Agvan Dordjiev’s lecture, which exemplifies the Buryat Buddhist Renovationists’ interpretation of Buddhism. Burmistrov analyzes the views of Indian historians of philosophy on the history of Buddhism, Volkova - the concepts of Buddhist ethics in contemporary analytical philosophy.

The difficult life situations (DLS) of modern learning youth are considered. The young people who are studying represent a special socio-age group that has a specific trajectory of development, called "emerging adulthood". Its specifics is that the development tasks have a different timing, obeying the main goal – the acquisition of a profession through long training. As a result, this group is subject to high stress, is psychologically unstable and needs the support of social and psychological services. The theoretical framework included the ideas of development in emerging adulthood, research of psychological well-being and event-situational approach. Two empirical studies were conducted with participating the college, bachelor's, master's and postgraduate students. The study 1 involved 337 respondents, Mage = 20.9, SDage = 3.0, 243 female. We used open-ended questions concerning the difficulties experienced by students at the university, followed by a structural tabular thematic analysis. The checklist "Difficult life situations of students, DLS-stud" has been compiled, including 49 difficulties. 751 respondents participated in study 2, Mage = 19.0, SDage = 4.3, 613 female. 301 people have moved to study (23 have changed their country), 416 were studying in the same city where they were born. The data clustering method was used to organize the selected difficulties. Eight clusters were identified: Adaptation to the technical conditions of studying, Adaptation to a new stage of studying, Lack of physical and psychological resources, Organization of classes at an educational office, Social conditions of studying, Current life tasks, Adaptation to a new place and Loss and fear of loss. The most frequent and rare difficulties are analyzed, the number and configuration of which vary depending on gender, level of education, and the fact of moving (more for girls, undergraduate students and those who changed their place of residence during their studies). The results obtained can make the work of university psychological services more effective.

Abstract Background Premature progesterone (P) rise during IVF stimulation reduces endometrial receptivity and is associated with lower pregnancy rates following embryo transfer (ET), which can influence provider recommendation for fresh or frozen ET. This study aimed to determine whether change in P level between in IVF baseline and trigger (𝚫P) is predictive of pregnancy outcome following fresh ET, and whether the ratio of gonadotropins influences P rise and, as a result, clinical pregnancy outcomes: clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rates (LBR). Methods Retrospective cohort study at a single fertility center at an academic institution. The peak P level and 𝚫P were modeled in relation to prediction of CPR and LBR, and the ratios of hMG:rFSH were also modeled in relation to prediction of peak P level on day of trigger, 𝚫P, and CPR/LBR in a total of 291 patients undergoing fresh embryo transfer after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation-IVF (COH-IVF). Results 𝚫P correlates with CPR, with the most predictive range for success as 𝚫P 0.7–0.85 ng/mL (p = 0.005, 95% CI 0.635, 3.636; predicting CPR of 88.9%). The optimal range for peak P in regard to pregnancy outcome was 0.15–1.349 ng/mL (p = 0.01; 95% CI for coefficient in model 0.48–3.570). A multivariable logistic model for prediction of CPR and LBR using either peak or 𝚫P supported a stronger association between 𝚫P and CPR/LBR as compared to peak P. Furthermore, an hMG:rFSH ratio of > 0.6 was predictive of lowest peak P (p = 0.010, 95% CI 0.035, 0.256) and smallest 𝚫P (p = 0.012, 95% CI 0.030, 0.243) during COH-IVF cycles. Highest CPRs were observed within hMG:rFSH ratios of 0.3–0.4 [75.6% vs. 62.5% within and outside of the range, respectively, (p = 0.023, 95% CI 0.119, 1.618)]. Highest LBRs were seen within the range of 0.3–0.6 hMG:rFSH, [LBR of 55.4% vs. 41.4% (p = 0.010, 95% CI 0.176, 1.311)]. Conclusions Our data supports use of 𝚫P to best predict pregnancy rates and therefore can improve clinical decision making as to when fresh ET is most appropriate. Furthermore, we found optimal gonadotropin ratios can be considered to minimize P rise and to optimize CPR/LBR, emphasizing the importance of luteinizing hormone (LH) activity in COH-IVF cycles.

Background/Objective: Learning difficulties (LDs) are lifelong neurodevelopmental disorders with multifactorial causes, including perinatal factors like mode of delivery. This study aims to explore whether cesarean section (CS) delivery is linked to the occurrence of specific learning disabilities (SLDs), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or their comorbidity. Methods: An online questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms to Greek mothers and parents of children with and without diagnoses, shared through school-related groups and various Greek pages focused on child development, special education, and learning difficulties. Conducted over eight months (October 2023–May 2024), this cross-sectional study involved 256 children, 137 with LDs diagnoses, and 119 controls. Results: In total, 59.9% of CS-born children had a diagnosis, compared to 40.1% of those born vaginally (X²(1) = 4.19, p = 0.045). CS delivery was associated with a 68% increased likelihood of LDs (OR = 1.68, 95% CI [1.02, 2.76]), with higher risks for ADHD (OR = 2.25, 95% CI [1.06, 4.79]) and comorbid SLD/ADHD diagnoses (OR = 2.75, 95% CI [1.17, 6.46]). Stratified analyses showed birthweight and gestational age as effect modifiers rather than confounders. Key postnatal risk factors identified were family history (OR = 4.65, 95% CI [2.41, 8.94]) and language acquisition difficulties (OR = 5.28, 95% CI [1.36, 20.47]). Conclusions: The findings suggest a possible association between CS and LDs, along with a novel link between CS and increased comorbidities. These results underscore the need for further research and provide valuable insights into how CS delivery may influence the risk of LDs, depending on the type of diagnosis.

We developed a spatiotemporal mapping approach utilizing multiple techniques for distinguishing and mapping known reclaimed mine sites from “unreclaimed” mine sites in a historic uranium mining district along the South Texas Coastal Plains. Lidar laser scanning penetrates the vegetation canopy to expose anthropogenic modifications to the landscape. The Lidar analysis (bare earth elevation surface, slope, topographic contours, topographic textures, and overland-flow hydrography) revealed mine features. Visual interpretation of Landsat imagery and time-series analysis augmented the Lidar analysis revealing the temporal life cycle of mining. The combination of bare earth texture with time-lapse and time-series analyses revealed areas of disturbance for reclaimed mines. The spatiotemporal mapping approach proved to be most useful in identifying and characterizing the known mine pit and pile features, reclamation status, and areas of disturbance due to mining. Two mine waste volume estimation methods resulted in a 21% difference indicating that although the approach helps to map mine features and areas of mining disturbance for the purposes of mine land inventory, additional information is needed to improve the estimation of buried mine waste at reclaimed mine sites.

Background. The course of the COVID-19 epidemic process depends on population immunity which prevents pathogen spread. Aim: to study an evolution of SARS-CoV-2 humoral immunity in the Belarusian population rela- tive to COVID-19 pandemic dynamics. Materials and methods. The work was carried out according to a methodology for assessing herd immunity developed by Rospotrebnadzor (Russia) and the Belarusian Ministry of Health involving the St. Petersburg Pasteur Institute (SPPI) by taking into account the WHO recommendations. The study was approved by the Bioethics Committee of Belarus and the SPPI Bioethics Committee. Participant selection was carried out by ques- tionnaire using a cloud (internet server) service. To monitor herd immunity, a cohort of 4661 subjects (involved at all stages of seromonitoring) was formed from the total volunteer group. Study subjects were randomized into groups based on age (117, 1829, 3039, 4049, 5059, 6069, 70+ years), geographic region, and occupation. For the detection of antibodies (Abs) against SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (Nc) and S glycoprotein receptor-binding domain (RBD), rel- evant assay systems were used according to the manufacturers instructions. A four-stage study was conducted according to a unified scheme. Results. At stage 1 (pandemic month 15), herd immunity was mainly accounted for by Nc+RBD+ Ab status alone. By stage 2 (4 months later), its specific proportion decreased by 1.2-fold, whereas percentage of subjects solely bearing RBD-specific Abs increased by 1.7-fold. At stages 3 and 4 (9 and 19 months after the onset) vs. stage 2, percent- age of subjects with RBD+Nc decreased by 3.5%; the proportion of persons with Nc+RBD Abs increased by 1.5-fold. The most important contributor in herd immunity turned out to be due to population vaccination, with coverage reaching 70% by stage 4. Among vaccines, compared with whole-virion, inactivated BIBP-CorV vaccine the Sputnik V and Sputnik Light vector were used most often. Conclusion. The evolution of herd SARS-CoV-2 humoral immunity included a series of changes in circulating Ab levels (Nc, RBD). The hybrid immunity formed helped to reduce the incidence of COVID-19 to sporadic level.

The article features the compositional semantics of phrasal verbs that denote a cognitive activity, as well as the interaction between their conceptual structure and the particle. The conceptual structures of these components can be described as mental schemes, e.g., a container with a certain vector of cognitive projection, and a number of subtypes. The compositional semantics of phrasal verbs of cognitive activity revealed that the interaction between the conceptual structure of the verb and the particle is a cognitive mechanism that develops its semantics. The container metaphor is based on the semantic potential of the verbal component and such particles as in, out, and through. These particles are usually combined with verbs of movement, physical activity, and perception. As part of phrasal verbs of mental activity, they realize the following prototypical concepts: the subject / object of the action gets into / penetrates into the container, is out / outside of the container, or crosses the border of the container, respectively. The role of the container belongs not to real objects, but to abstract entities, e.g., memory, consciousness, attention, feelings, thoughts, etc., as well as various physical and mental states or situations in which objects are immersed.

Emerging adulthood is the youth trajectory characterized by self-focus, identity exploration, feeling between adolescence and adulthood, instability, and experimentation. This trajectory was first identified in industrialized individualistic countries with gender equality and technological progress. To measure transition to adulthood, the Inventory of the Dimensions of Emerging Adulthood (IDEA) was created. Although emerging adulthood is considered universal, adaptations of the questionnaire across the 12 countries show different patterns, and its cross-cultural invariance has been underinvestigated. This study tests IDEA in three collectivistic countries – Armenia, China, and Russia. The sample consisted of 868 students (total male – 152, total female – 716) aged 18 to 29 years old. We tested the questionnaire separately in the three countries to check that this model fits, but we failed to prove it. After that we used a factor-analytic approach to find a common version for the three countries. We got a five-factor correlated model in accordance with the theory, but it was reduced from 31 items to 21, and three items moved to other factors. Finally, we provided measurement invariance and reached configural level. To test the narrower facets of factors we used multi-group alignment and found that variances in six parameters differ, mainly in Instability. Despite the difference in the questionnaire items, we proposed a common model for three countries that we called questionnaire IDEA-collectivistic countries (IDEA-CC).

Aim. To clarify the role of the uremic toxin indoxyl sulfate (IS) and inflammation in the development of vascular calcification and cardiovascular complications in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Materials and methods. One hundred fifteen patients aged 25 to 68 years with CKD stage C3C5D were examined. Serum concentrations of IS, interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-), troponin I, parathyroid hormone were determined by enzyme immunoassay using kits from BluGene biotech (Shanghai, China), Cloud-Clone Corp. (USA), ELISA Kit (Biomedica, Austria). Results. An increase in the serum concentration of IS, IL-6, TNF- was revealed, which was significantly associated with a deterioration in renal function and changes in the morphological and functional parameters of the heart and aorta. Conclusion. High concentrations of IS, IL-6, TNF-, which are closely associated with an increase in renal failure and cardiovascular complications, indicate their significant role in vascular calcification, which underlies the damage to the cardiovascular system in CKD.

Background:. There is limited information about minority representation throughout the plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) pipeline. The aim of this study was to examine trends in representation among minorities at different stages of the PRS training pathway, starting with potential candidates in high school through practicing physicians. Methods:. The PRS pipeline was defined as high school; college; medical school applicants, matriculants, and graduates; PRS residency applicants, matriculants, and active residents; and PRS practicing physicians. Racial data for each stage were obtained from the US Census and Association of American Medical Colleges. The proportion of races at each stage were divided by their US population counterpart proportions to produce representation quotients (RQs). Medians and interquartile ranges (IQRs) are reported. Mann–Whitney U tests compared RQ values within identities between successive stages. Results:. Black students had high representation in high school (RQ = 1.26 [IQR: 1.21–1.29]) but had significant, stepwise decreases in representation in subsequent stages. A similar trend was observed for Hispanic individuals, who had their highest representation in high school (1.43 [1.37–1.50]), followed by significant decreases in RQ at nearly every subsequent stage up to and including practicing physicians (0.30 [0.28–0.31). Asian individuals were overrepresented at every stage (high school RQ: 1.01 [1.00–1.03]; practicing physician RQ: 2.30 [2.27–2.32]). White individuals were underrepresented before residency but had an RQ that approximated 1 in subsequent stages. Conclusions:. Racial minorities experienced decreases in representation at each successive stage in the PRS pipeline following high school. Ongoing diversity efforts should focus on premedical recruitment and professional support for minority students.

Abstract Background Vertebral endplate sclerosis and facet osteoarthritis have been documented in animals and humans. However, it is unclear how these adjacent pathologies engage in crosstalk with the intervertebral disc. This study sought to elucidate this crosstalk by assessing each compartment individually in response to acute disc injury. Methods Eleven New Zealand White rabbits underwent annular disc puncture using a 16G or 21G needle. At 4 and 10 weeks, individual compartments of the motion segment were analyzed. Discs underwent T1 relaxation mapping with MRI contrast agent gadodiamide as well T2 mapping. Both discs and facets underwent mechanical testing via vertebra—disc—vertebra tension‐compression creep testing and indentation testing, respectively. Endplate bone density was quantified via μCT. Discs and facets were sectioned and stained for histology scoring. Results Intervertebral discs became more degenerative with increasing needle diameter and time post‐puncture. Bone density also increased in endplates adjacent to both 21G and 16G punctured discs leading to reduced gadodiamide transport at 10 weeks. The facet joints, however, did not follow this same trend. Facets adjacent to 16G punctured discs were less degenerative than facets adjacent to 21G punctured discs at 10 weeks. 16G facets were more degenerative at 4 weeks than at 10, suggesting the cartilage had recovered. The formation of severe disc osteophytes in 16G punctured discs between 4 and 10 weeks likely offloaded the facet cartilage, leading to the recovery observed. Conclusions Overall, this study supports that degeneration spans the whole spinal motion segment following disc injury. Vertebral endplate thickening occurred in response to disc injury, which limited the diffusion of small molecules into the disc. This work also suggests that altered disc mechanics can induce facet degeneration, and that extreme bony remodeling adjacent to the disc may promote facet cartilage recovery through offloading of the articular cartilage.

Bakers cyst (BC) is a common condition and can be caused by both inflammatory and non-inflammatory disorders. Small BCs are usually asymptomatic and accidentally revealed. Large BCs present with pain and discomfort in the posterior knee as well as certain limitations of mobility. Large BCs may rupture resulting the fluid efflux down into the calf, which in turn presents with acute pain and number of potential thrombotic and neural complications. On another note, BC rupture requires differentiation with some urgent conditions such as venosus or arterial thrombosis, soft tissue infections etc. In this article we present some aspects of the etiopathogenesis, clinical signs and course of the BC. We also discuss the problematic issues of assessment and diagnostic work-up in case of BC ruptures.

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic presents a unique, amplified threat to those living with a cancer diagnosis, but personal factors may play a role in how this affects well-being. This cross-sectional study (1) describes the impacts of COVID-19 on cancer patients’ lives, and (2) explores the extent to which specific impacts of COVID-19 and noted protective factors, hope and resilience, predict two crucial patient-reported outcomes, depression and anxiety, after controlling for relevant sociodemographic and clinical factors. Methods 520 cancer patients and survivors in the U.S. completed an online survey during the first year of the pandemic and answered questions about COVID-19 areas of impact, psychological well-being, hope, and resilience. Hierarchical regression analyses were used to analyze the unique impact of each group of variables on patient-reported levels of depression and anxiety during the pandemic. Results Participants strongly endorsed COVID-19 impact across several areas of life, especially social activity, well-being, and ability to acquire basic essentials. Regression models explained a substantial amount of variance in patient-reported depression (R 2 = .50, p

The description of the facts of the lexical dynamics of the coronavirus period focuses on identifying similarities and differences in the linguistic practice of neologization of Greek and Russian languages. The features of the incorporation of loanwords and the subsequent adaptation of new lexical items in the modern socio-cultural context of these languages are considered through the prism of the impact of global processes. The research is conducted at the lexical-semantic, word-formation, and partially morphological levels. The material of the research was taken from lexicographic sources of modern Greek and Russian languages. The comparative analysis revealed processes common to both languages, such as vocabulary replenishment by borrowing from the same source donor language, and processes specific to each language, such as reborrowing in Greek in a different form or with a different meaning. Based on this analysis, we can conclude that most of the neologisms in these languages come from English, the donor language of the coronavirus lexicon in other languages. At the same time, despite certain similarities in the processes of penetration of new elements into Greek and Russian, the further assimilation of lexical units in each language has an individual character and features that often activate their own mechanisms of neologization.

Abstract Introduction There is increasing interest in risk‐stratified breast screening, whereby the prevention and early detection offers vary by a woman's estimated risk of breast cancer. To date, more focus has been directed towards high‐risk screening pathways rather than considering women at lower risk, who may be eligible for extended screening intervals. This secondary data analysis aimed to compare the views of three key stakeholder groups on how extending screening intervals for low‐risk women should be implemented and communicated as part of a national breast screening programme. Methods Secondary data analysis of three qualitative studies exploring the views of distinct stakeholder groups was conducted. Interviews took place with 23 low‐risk women (identified from the BC‐Predict study) and 17 national screening figures, who were involved in policy‐making and implementation. In addition, three focus groups and two interviews were conducted with 26 healthcare professionals. A multiperspective thematic analysis was conducted to identify similarities and differences between stakeholders. Findings Three themes were produced: Questionable assumptions about negative consequences, highlighting how other stakeholders lack trust in how women are likely to understand extended screening intervals; Preserving the integrity of the programme, centring on decision‐making and maintaining a positive reputation of breast screening and Negotiating a communication pathway highlighting communication expectations and public campaign importance. Conclusions A risk‐stratified screening programme should consider how best to engage women assessed as having a low risk of breast cancer to ensure mutual trust, balance the practicality of change whilst ensuring acceptability, and carefully develop multilevel inclusive communication strategies. Patient and Public Contribution The research within this paper involved patient/public contributors throughout including study design and materials input.

Abstract Background Risk stratified breast cancer screening is being considered as a means of improving the balance of benefits and harms of mammography. Stratified screening requires the communication of risk estimates. We aimed to co-develop personalised 10-year breast cancer risk communications for women attending routine mammography. Methods We conducted think-aloud interviews on prototype breast cancer risk letters and accompanying information leaflets with women receiving breast screening through the UK National Breast Screening Programme. Risk information was redesigned following feedback from 55 women in three iterations. A deductive thematic analysis of participants’ speech is presented. Results Overall, participants appreciated receiving their breast cancer risk. Their comments focused on positive framing and presentation of the risk estimate, a desire for detail on the contribution of individual risk factors to overall risk and effective risk management strategies, and clearly signposted support pathways. Conclusion Provision of breast cancer risk information should strive to be personal, understandable and meaningful. Risk information should be continually refined to reflect developments in risk management. Receipt of risk via letter is welcomed but concerns remain around the acceptability of informing women at higher risk in this way, highlighting a need for co-development of risk dissemination and support pathways.

Graphene materials, used as electrocatalyst support in green hydrogen production, contribute to increasing the efficiency and robustness of various systems. However, the preparation of a hybrid catalyst containing graphene materials from industrial wastes is still a challenge due to the heterogeneity of the waste. We report the synthesis of 3D electrodes using graphene oxides (GOs) from industrial waste (IW) prepared by immersion onto Toray carbon paper as a 3D support onto GO suspensions and electrodepositing NiFe layered double hydroxides (LDHs). Standard graphite was also used as the reference. The morphology of the two hybrid electrodes was determined by SEM, HRTEM, XPS. Although very similar in both, the sample containing graphene from IW (higher Csp3 hybridization in the graphene layer) has a NiFe phase with less crystallinity and larger presence of Fe2+ ions. These electrodes exhibited similar activity and stability as electrocatalysts of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), demonstrating the proactive effect of the graphene into the 3D electrode even when this is prepared from heterogeneous industrial waste. Moreover, the defective graphenic structure of the waste GO enhances the reaction kinetics and improves the electron transfer rate, possibly due to the small differences in the electrodeposited NiFe LDH structure.

Transitioning between gravitational environments results in a central reinterpretation of sensory information, producing an adapted sensorimotor state suitable for motor actions and perceptions in the new environment. Critically, this central adaptation is not instantaneous, and complete adaptation may require weeks of prolonged exposure to novel environments. To mitigate risks associated with the lagging time course of adaptation (e.g., spatial orientation misperceptions, alterations in locomotor and postural control, and motion sickness), it is critical that we better understand sensorimotor states during adaptation. Recently, efforts have emerged to model human perception of orientation and self-motion during sensorimotor adaptation to new gravity stimuli. While these nascent computational frameworks are well suited for modeling exposure to novel gravitational stimuli, they have yet to distinguish how the central nervous system (CNS) reinterprets sensory information from familiar environmental stimuli (i.e., readaptation). Here, we present a theoretical framework and resulting computational model of vestibular adaptation to gravity transitions which captures the role of implicit memory. This advancement enables faster readaptation to familiar gravitational stimuli, which has been observed in repeat flyers, by considering vestibular signals dependent on the new gravity environment, through Bayesian inference. The evolution and weighting of hypotheses considered by the CNS is modeled via a Rao-Blackwellized particle filter algorithm. Sensorimotor adaptation learning is facilitated by retaining a memory of past harmonious states, represented by a conditional state transition probability density function, which allows the model to consider previously experienced gravity levels (while also dynamically learning new states) when formulating new alternative hypotheses of gravity. In order to demonstrate our theoretical framework and motivate future experiments, we perform a variety of simulations. These simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of this model and its potential to advance our understanding of transitory states during which central reinterpretation occurs, ultimately mitigating the risks associated with the lagging time course of adaptation to gravitational environments.

Aim. To clarify the mechanisms of the effect of osteoprotegerin (OPG) and sclerostin on vascular calcification and the state of the cardiovascular system in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Materials and methods. A total of 110 patients aged 18 to 65 years with CKD stages 35D were examined. OPG, sclerostin, intact parathyroid hormone, and serum troponin I were determined using the commercial "Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay Kit for Sclerostin" from Cloude-Clone Corp. (USA) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results. An increase in sclerostin and OPG levels was revealed, which significantly correlated with a decrease in glomerular filtration rate, as well as an increase in left ventricle myocardial mass index and peak systolic blood flow in the aortic arch. Conclusion. Changes in the regulation of bone-mineral metabolism, in which the proteins inhibitors of bone metabolism, OPG and sclerostin, as well as the interactive interaction between the vascular and skeletal systems, play a decisive role in the development of lesions of the cardiovascular system caused by vascular calcification in CKD.

Immunocompromised individuals are predisposed to severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, with transplant recipients typically displaying impaired immune response to pathogens, due to typical life-long immunosuppressive treatment. In this work, the authors evaluate the immune response to Omicron subvariants BA.1 and BA.2 in organ transplant recipients across a diverse clinical spectrum.

Abstract Background Maternally inherited bacterial symbionts are extremely widespread in insects. They owe their success to their ability to promote their own transmission through various manipulations of their hosts’ life-histories. Many symbionts however very often go undetected. Consequently, we have only a restricted idea of the true symbiont diversity in insects, which may hinder our understanding of even bigger questions in the field such as the evolution or establishment of symbiosis. Results In this study, we screened publicly available Lepidoptera genomic material for two of the most common insect endosymbionts, namely Wolbachia and Spiroplasma, in 1904 entries, encompassing 106 distinct species. We compared the performance of two screening software, Kraken2 and MetaPhlAn2, to identify the bacterial infections and using a baiting approach we reconstruct endosymbiont genome assemblies. Of the 106 species screened, 20 (19%) and nine (8.5%) were found to be infected with either Wolbachia or Spiroplasma, respectively. Construction of partial symbiotic genomes and phylogenetic analyses suggested the Wolbachia strains from the supergroup B were the most prevalent type of symbionts, while Spiroplasma infections were scarce in the Lepidoptera species screened here. Conclusions Our results indicate that many of the host-symbiont associations remain largely unexplored, with the majority of associations we identify never being recorded before. This highlights the usefulness of public databases to explore the hidden diversity of symbiotic entities, allowing the development of hypotheses regarding host-symbiont associations. The ever-expanding genomic databases provide a diverse databank from which one can characterize and explore the true diversity of symbiotic entities.

Abstract Background Providing women with personalized estimates of their risk of developing breast cancer, as part of routine breast cancer screening programmes, allows women at higher risk to be offered more frequent screening or drugs to reduce risk. For this to be feasible, the concept and practicalities have to be acceptable to the healthcare professionals who would put it in to practice. The present research investigated the acceptability to healthcare professionals who were responsible for the implementation of this new approach to screening in the ongoing BC-Predict study. Methods Four focus groups were conducted with 29 healthcare professionals from a variety of professional backgrounds working within three breast screening services in north-west England. An inductive-manifest thematic analysis was conducted. Results Overall, healthcare professionals viewed the implementation of personalised breast cancer risk estimation as a positive step, but discussion focused on concerns. Three major themes are presented. (1) Service constraints highlights the limited capacity within current breast services and concerns about the impact of additional workload. (2) Risk communication concerns the optimal way to convey risk to women within resource constraints. (3) Accentuating inequity discusses how risk stratification could decrease screening uptake for underserved groups. Conclusions Staff who implemented risk stratification considered it a positive addition to routine screening. They considered it essential to consider improving capacity and demands on healthcare professional time. They highlighted the need for skilled communication of risks and new pathways of care to ensure that stratification could be implemented in financially and time constrained settings without impacting negatively on women.

Abstract Background Data on the lung respiratory mechanics and gas exchange in the time course of COVID-19-associated respiratory failure is limited. This study aimed to explore respiratory mechanics and gas exchange, the lung recruitability and risk of overdistension during the time course of mechanical ventilation. Methods This was a prospective observational study in critically ill mechanically ventilated patients (n = 116) with COVID-19 admitted into Intensive Care Units of Sechenov University. The primary endpoints were: «optimum» positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) level balanced between the lowest driving pressure and the highest SpO2 and number of patients with recruitable lung on Days 1 and 7 of mechanical ventilation. We measured driving pressure at different levels of PEEP (14, 12, 10 and 8 cmH2O) with preset tidal volume, and with the increase of tidal volume by 100 ml and 200 ml at preset PEEP level, and calculated static respiratory system compliance (CRS), PaO2/FiO2, alveolar dead space and ventilatory ratio on Days 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 14 and 21. Results The «optimum» PEEP levels on Day 1 were 11.0 (10.0–12.8) cmH2O and 10.0 (9.0–12.0) cmH2O on Day 7. Positive response to recruitment was observed on Day 1 in 27.6% and on Day 7 in 9.2% of patients. PEEP increase from 10 to 14 cmH2O and VT increase by 100 and 200 ml led to a significant decrease in CRS from Day 1 to Day 14 (p

Abstract Granular hydrogels are an emerging class of biomaterials formed by jamming hydrogel microparticles (i.e., microgels). These materials have many advantageous properties that can be tailored through microgel design and extent of packing. To enhance the range of properties, granular composites can be formed with a hydrogel interstitial matrix between the packed microgels, allowing for material flow and then stabilization after crosslinking. This approach allows for distinct compartments (i.e., microgels and interstitial space) with varied properties to engineer complex material behaviors. However, a thorough investigation of how the compositions and ratios of microgels and interstitial matrices influence material properties has not been performed. Herein, granular hydrogel composites are fabricated by combining fragmented hyaluronic acid (HA) microgels with interstitial matrices consisting of photocrosslinkable HA. Microgels of varying compressive moduli (10–70 kPa) are combined with interstitial matrices (0–30 vol.%) with compressive moduli varying from 2–120 kPa. Granular composite structure (confocal imaging), mechanics (local and bulk), flow behavior (rheology), and printability are thoroughly assessed. Lastly, variations in the interstitial matrix chemistry (covalent vs guest–host) and microgel degradability are investigated. Overall, this study describes the influence of granular composite composition on structure and mechanical properties of granular hydrogels towards informed designs for future applications.

Drug misuse likely contributes to the over 30,000 children in foster care and to the 24.2% of children who have experienced two or more adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Twenty-five percent of children are living in poverty, with nearly half of those living in single-parent households. Among the national guidelines to preventing ACEs are connecting youth with positive activities and providing family relationship enhancement opportunities. We believe the profession of occupational therapy can help contribute to the mental and behavioral health care workforce in a greater capacity than is currently used. Many children are not afforded the opportunity to engage in novel leisure pursuits that are essential for positive mental health function and well-being. Occupational therapists can assist in creating a culture of health and equity for youth by harnessing the power of play and leisure to promote self-healing communities.

Abstract Models estimate that up to 80% of all butterfly and moth species host vertically transmitted endosymbiotic microorganisms, which can affect the host fitness, metabolism, reproduction, population dynamics, and genetic diversity, among others. The supporting empirical data are however currently highly biased towards the generally more colourful butterflies, and include less information about moths. Additionally, studies of symbiotic partners of Lepidoptera predominantly focus on the common bacterium Wolbachia pipientis, while infections by other inherited microbial partners have more rarely been investigated. Here, we mine the whole genome sequence data of 47 species of Erebidae moths, with the aims to both inform on the diversity of symbionts potentially associated with this Lepidoptera group, and discuss the potential of metagenomic approaches to inform on host associated microbiome diversity. Based on the result of Kraken2 and MetaPhlAn2 analyses, we found clear evidence of the presence of Wolbachia in four species. Our result also suggests the presence of three other bacterial symbionts (Burkholderia spp., Sodalis spp. and Arsenophonus spp.) in three other moth species. Additionally, we recovered genomic material from bracovirus in about half of our samples. The detection of the latter, usually found in mutualistic association to braconid parasitoid wasps, may inform on host-parasite interactions that take place in the natural habitat of the Erebidae moths, suggesting either contamination with material from species of the host community network, or horizontal transfer of members of the microbiome between interacting species.

Introduction. The main issue of the study is the problem of improving the quality of education. As part of the comprehensive and effective development of educational institutions of the Russian Federation, it is necessary to meet the requirements for providing new and innovative tools for quality control of education. One of these tools is the use of a score-rating system for assessing students of higher educational institutions. Purpose of research is to analyze and improve the existing methods of evaluation of students of higher educational institutions.Materials and methods. The comparative analysis of existing methods of assessment of students is applied. The main shortcomings of the traditional system of evaluation of students of higher educational institutions are determined by empirical method.Results. The new score-rating system for assessing students has been developed that meets modern standards of higher education in the Russian Federation and includes a multi-level system of criteria that take into account all stages of student-teacher interaction.Conclusions. The developed system of criteria can be applied to absolutely any discipline with any amount of load. But preferably with full-time or part-time education.

ABSTRACT Metal ions are required by all organisms for the chemical processes that support life. However, in excess they can also exert toxicity within biological systems. During infection, bacterial pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae are exposed to host-imposed metal intoxication, where the toxic properties of metals, such as copper, are exploited to aid in microbial clearance. However, previous studies investigating the antimicrobial efficacy of copper in vivo have reported variable findings. Here, we use a highly copper-sensitive strain of S. pneumoniae, lacking both copper efflux and intracellular copper buffering by glutathione, to investigate how copper stress is managed and where it is encountered during infection. We show that this strain exhibits highly dysregulated copper homeostasis, leading to the attenuation of growth and hyperaccumulation of copper in vitro. In a murine infection model, whole-tissue copper quantitation and elemental bioimaging of the murine lung revealed that infection with S. pneumoniae resulted in increased copper abundance in specific tissues, with the formation of spatially discrete copper hot spots throughout the lung. While the increased copper was able to reduce the viability of the highly copper-sensitive strain in a pneumonia model, copper levels in professional phagocytes and in a bacteremic model were insufficient to prosecute bacterial clearance. Collectively, this study reveals that host copper is redistributed to sites of infection and can impact bacterial viability in a hypersusceptible strain. However, in wild-type S. pneumoniae, the concerted actions of the copper homeostatic mechanisms are sufficient to facilitate continued viability and virulence of the pathogen. IMPORTANCE Streptococcus pneumoniae (the pneumococcus) is one of the world’s foremost bacterial pathogens. Treatment of both localized and systemic pneumococcal infection is becoming complicated by increasing rates of multidrug resistance globally. Copper is a potent antimicrobial agent used by the mammalian immune system in the defense against bacterial pathogens. However, unlike other bacterial species, this copper stress is unable to prosecute pneumococcal clearance. This study determines how the mammalian host inflicts copper stress on S. pneumoniae and the bacterial copper tolerance mechanisms that contribute to maintenance of viability and virulence in vitro and in vivo. This work has provided insight into the chemical biology of the host-pneumococcal interaction and identified a potential avenue for novel antimicrobial development.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is linked to 2 main disparate genetic pathways: a chromosome 10 risk locus and the alternative pathway (AP) of complement. Rare genetic variants in complement factor H (CFH; FH) and factor I (CFI; FI) are associated with AMD. FH acts as a soluble cofactor to facilitate FI’s cleavage and inactivation of the central molecule of the AP, C3b. For personalised treatment, sensitive assays are required to define the functional significance of individual AP genetic variants. Generation of recombinant FI for functional analysis has thus far been constrained by incomplete processing resulting in a preparation of active and inactive protein. Using an internal ribosomal entry site (IRES)-Furin-CFI expression vector, fully processed FI was generated with activity equivalent to serum purified FI. By generating FI with an inactivated serine protease domain (S525A FI), a real-time surface plasmon resonance assay of C3b:FH:FI complex formation for characterising variants in CFH and CFI was developed and correlated well with standard assays. Using these methods, we further demonstrate that patient-associated rare genetic variants lacking enzymatic activity (e.g. CFI I340T) may competitively inhibit the wild-type FI protein. The dominant negative effect identified in inactive factor I variants could impact on the pharmacological replacement of FI currently being investigated for the treatment of dry AMD.

Purpose This study assessed the relationship of core muscle sarcopenia, myosteatosis, and L1 attenuation to the 5-factor modified frailty index (mFI-5), discharge disposition, and post-admission complications in orthopedic and general trauma patients. It was hypothesized that reduced sarcopenia, L1 attenuation, and increased myosteatosis is associated with higher mFI-5 scores (≥ 0.3), discharge into care, and increased post-admission complications. Methods This prospective cohort study was performed at a Level 1 trauma center. Patients were surveyed and metrics of the mFI-5 were used. Frail was categorized as a mFI-5 score ≥ 0.3. Recent abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans were used to extract radiographical information of total psoas cross-sectional area, psoas myosteatosis, and L1 vertebrae attenuation. Results There were 140 patients who consented to the study, of which 83 had available abdomen and pelvis CT scans. The mean age was 43.19 (± 17.36), and 65% were male (n = 52). When comparing the frail (16%, n = 13) and not frail (84%, n = 70) patients, there was a significant difference in mean psoas myosteatosis (p < 0.0001) and the attenuation of the L1 vertebrae (p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis when accounting for age, myosteatosis of the psoas muscles was predictive of an mFI-5 score ≥ 0.3. Conclusion The findings suggest that myosteatosis and L1 attenuation are associated with frailty indices (mFI-5) after traumatic injury. Future studies are needed to prospectively assess the validity of both radiographical and index-based markers of frailty in predicting post-traumatic complications, mortality, and hospital utilization.

Background. Personal authenticity is a person’s ability to be oneself and coherent in both his/her personality and the circumstances of his/her life (time, place, and life-calling). The sense of one’s true self plays an essential role in peoples’ psychological well-being and life goals. Currently, the theory of authenticity is included in existential psychology, the person-centered approach, and the psychology of the subject, but all of these approaches have some methodological limitations. Objective. The aim of the current study was to explore the everyday presentations of the true self among the primary school children and adolescents. It was expected that in adolescence, these representations are more differentiated and mature than at an earlier stage of life. Design. In the exploratory research, 330 respondents took part, including 163 primary school children (74 girls, 87 boys, ages 7 to 11; M = 9.4) and 167 adolescents (78 girls, 89 boys, ages 12 to 17; M = 14.3). A special interview consisting of 11 open and closed-ended questions was developed. The inductive method of content analysis was used. Results. Differences were found in the frequencies of the categories used by primary school children and adolescents. Older respondents described their true selves in more detail; their evaluations were more positive and often included their social life as an inseparable part of themselves, whereas descriptions by the younger children were more sparse, ambiguous, and individualistic. Conclusion. The results obtained can help identify the substantial stages of the genesis of the true self. To develop authenticity, these facts should be taken into consideration.

Bat caves in the Neotropical region harbor exceptional bat populations (> 100,000 individuals). These populations play a wider role in ecological interactions, are vulnerable due to their restriction to caves, and have a disproportionate conservation value. Current knowledge of bat caves in Brazil is still small. However, systematic monitoring of some bat caves in northeastern Brazil shows that they experience strong population fluctuations over short periods of time, suggesting large-scale movements between roosts and a much broader use of the landscape than previously considered. Spatio-temporal reproductive connectivity between distant populations would change our understanding of the use of roosts among bat species in Brazil, and important gaps in knowledge of long-distance bat movements in the country would be filled. Here, we used ddRADseq data to analyze the genetic structure of Pteronotus gymnonotus across nine bat caves over 700 km. Our results indicate the lack of a clear geographic structure with gene flow among all the caves analyzed, suggesting that P. gymnonotus uses a network of bat caves geographically segregated hundreds of kilometers apart. Facing strong anthropogenic impacts and an underrepresentation of caves in conservation action plans worldwide, the genetic connectivity demonstrated here confirms that bat caves are priority sites for bat and speleological conservation in Brazil and elsewhere. Moreover, our results demonstrate a warning call: the applied aspects of the environmental licensing process of the mining sector and its impact must be reviewed, not only in Brazil, but wherever this licensing process affects caves having exceptional bat populations.

Abstract Background Trials of risk estimation in breast cancer screening programmes, in order to identify women at higher risk and offer extra screening/preventive measures, are ongoing. It may also be feasible to introduce less frequent screening for women at low-risk of breast cancer. This study aimed to establish views of women at low-risk of breast cancer regarding the acceptability of extending breast screening intervals for low-risk women beyond 3 y. Methods Semi-structured interviews were used to explore views of low-risk women, where “low-risk” was defined as less than 2% estimated 10-year risk of breast cancer aged > 46 years. Low-risk women were identified via the BC-Predict study, where following routine screening, women were given their 10-year risk of breast cancer by letter, along with additional information explaining breast cancer risk factors. To gain diversity of views, purposive sampling by ethnicity and socioeconomic background was used to recruit women. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Twenty-three women participated in individual interviews. Three themes are reported: (1) A good opportunity to receive risk estimation, where women found it worthwhile to receive a low-risk result although some were surprised if expecting a higher risk result; (2) Multi-faceted acceptability of extended screening intervals, with reactions to less frequent screening dependent on whether women were confident in being low-risk status and current safety evidence, (3) Passive approval versus informed choice, highlighting that women found it difficult to consider choosing less frequent screening without professionals’ recommendations, as they generally viewed attending breast screening as positive. Conclusions Risk assessment and receiving a low-risk of breast cancer is acceptable although, further research is required with more diverse samples of women. Any recommendation of less frequent screening in this risk group should be evidence-based in order to be acceptable. Communication needs to be carefully developed, with a focus on ensuring informed choice, prior to trialling any extended screening recommendations in future studies.

There are presented the literature data and a description of the clinical course of the disease in isolated/predominant cardiac amyloidosis. Amyloid cardiomyopathy is the most common phenocopy of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The modern possibilities of non-invasive diagnostics using osteoscintigraphy for the differential diagnosis between amyloid cardiomyopathy caused by AL- and transthyretin amyloidosis are described in detail.

Decontamination of sulfur-containing chemical warfare agents can be achieved through selective, air-based oxidation. Here a solid, solvent-free catalyst for aerobic oxidative decontamination of sulfur mustard is reported.

Background Cerebral small‐vessel disease (cSVD) is an important cause of stroke and vascular dementia. Most cases are multifactorial, but an emerging minority have a monogenic cause. While NOTCH3 is the best‐known gene, several others have been reported. We aimed to summarize the cerebral phenotypes associated with these more recent cSVD genes. Methods and Results We performed a systematic review (PROSPERO [International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews]: CRD42020196720), searching Medline/Embase (conception to July 2020) for any language publications describing COL4A1/2, TREX1, HTRA1, ADA2, or CTSA pathogenic variant carriers. We extracted data about individuals’ characteristics and clinical and vascular radiological cerebral phenotypes. We summarized phenotype frequencies per gene, comparing patterns across genes. We screened 6485 publications including 402, and extracted data on 390 individuals with COL4A1, 123 with TREX1, 44 with HTRA1 homozygous, 41 with COL4A2, 346 with ADA2, 82 with HTRA1 heterozygous, and 14 with CTSA. Mean age ranged from 15 (ADA2) to 59 years (HTRA1 heterozygotes). Clinical phenotype frequencies varied widely: stroke, 9% (TREX1) to 52% (HTRA1 heterozygotes); cognitive features, 0% (ADA2) to 64% (HTRA1 homozygotes); and psychiatric features, 0% (COL4A2; ADA2) to 57% (CTSA). Among individuals with neuroimaging, vascular radiological phenotypes appeared common, ranging from 62% (ADA2) to 100% (HTRA1 homozygotes; CTSA). White matter lesions were the most common pathology, except in ADA2 and COL4A2 cases, where ischemic and hemorrhagic lesions dominated, respectively. Conclusions There appear to be differences in cerebral manifestations across cSVD genes. Vascular radiological changes were more common than clinical neurological phenotypes, and present in the majority of individuals with reported neuroimaging. However, these results may be affected by age and biases inherent to case reports. In the future, better characterization of associated phenotypes, as well as insights from population‐based studies, should improve our understanding of monogenic cSVD to inform genetic testing, guide clinical management, and help unravel underlying disease mechanisms.

Background & Aims: The molecular motor, Myosin Vb (MYO5B), is well documented for its role in trafficking cargo to the apical membrane of epithelial cells. Despite its involvement in regulating apical proteins, the role of MYO5B in cell polarity is less clear. Inactivating mutations in MYO5B result in microvillus inclusion disease (MVID), a disorder characterized by loss of key apical transporters and the presence of intracellular inclusions in enterocytes. We previously identified that inclusions in Myo5b knockout (KO) mice form from invagination of the apical brush border via apical bulk endocytosis. Herein, we sought to elucidate the role of polarity complexes and tight junction proteins during the formation of inclusions. Methods: Intestinal tissue from neonatal control and Myo5b KO littermates was analyzed by immunofluorescence to determine the localization of polarity complexes and tight junction proteins. Results: Proteins that make up the apical polarity complexes—Crumbs3 and Pars complexes—were associated with inclusions in Myo5b KO mice. In addition, tight junction proteins were observed to be concentrated over inclusions that were present at the apical membrane of Myo5b-deficient enterocytes in vivo and in vitro. Our mouse findings are complemented by immunostaining in a large animal swine model of MVID genetically engineered to express a human MVID-associated mutation that shows an accumulation of Claudin-2 over forming inclusions. The findings from our swine model of MVID suggest that a similar mechanism of tight junction accumulation occurs in patients with MVID. Conclusions: These data show that apical bulk endocytosis involves the altered localization of apical polarity proteins and tight junction proteins after loss of Myo5b.

Abstract Background There is international interest in risk-stratification of breast screening programmes to allow women at higher risk to benefit from more frequent screening and chemoprevention. Risk-stratification also identifies women at low-risk who could be screened less frequently, as the harms of breast screening may outweigh benefits for this group. The present research aimed to elicit the views of national healthcare policy decision-makers regarding implementation of less frequent screening intervals for women at low-risk. Methods Seventeen professionals were purposively recruited to ensure relevant professional group representation directly or indirectly associated with the UK National Screening Committee and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) clinical guidelines. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Three themes are reported: (1) producing the evidence defining low-risk, describing requirements preceding implementation; (2) the impact of risk stratification on women is complicated, focusing on gaining acceptability from women; and (3) practically implementing a low-risk pathway, where feasibility questions are highlighted. Conclusions Overall, national healthcare policy decision-makers appear to believe that risk-stratified breast screening is acceptable, in principle. It will however be essential to address key obstacles prior to implementation in national programmes.

Abstract Background UK national guidelines suggest women at high-risk of breast cancer should be offered more frequent screening or preventative medications. Currently, only 1 in 6 high-risk women are identified. One route to identify more high-risk women is via multifactorial risk assessment as part of the UK’s NHS Breast Screening Programme (NHSBSP). As lower socioeconomic and minority ethnic populations continue to experience barriers to screening, it is important that any new service does not exacerbate issues further. To inform service development, this study explored views of women from underserved backgrounds regarding the introduction of risk stratification into the NHSBSP. Methods Nineteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with British-Pakistani women from low socioeconomic backgrounds from East Lancashire, UK. Fourteen interviews were conducted via an interpreter. Results Thematic analysis produced three themes. Attitudes toward risk awareness concerns the positive views women have toward the idea of receiving personalised breast cancer risk information. Anticipated barriers to accessibility emphasises the difficulties associated with women’s limited English skills for accessing information, and their I.T proficiency for completing an online risk assessment questionnaire. Acceptability of risk communication strategy highlights the diversity of opinion regarding the suitability of receiving risk results via letter, with the option for support from a healthcare professional deemed essential. Conclusions The idea of risk stratification was favourable amongst this underserved community. To avoid exacerbating inequities, this new service should provide information in multiple languages and modalities and offer women the opportunity to speak to a healthcare professional about risk. This service should also enable completion of personal risk information via paper questionnaires, as well as online.

Objective: Stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) is a single-pass transmembrane endoplasmic/sarcoplasmic reticulum (E/SR) protein recognized for its role in a store operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE), an ancient and ubiquitous signaling pathway. Whereas STIM1 is known to be indispensable during development, its biological and metabolic functions in mature muscles remain unclear. Methods: Conditional and tamoxifen inducible muscle STIM1 knock-out mouse models were coupled with multi-omics tools and comprehensive physiology to understand the role of STIM1 in regulating SOCE, mitochondrial quality and bioenergetics, and whole-body energy homeostasis. Results: This study shows that STIM1 is abundant in adult skeletal muscle, upregulated by exercise, and is present at SR-mitochondria interfaces. Inducible tissue-specific deletion of STIM1 (iSTIM1 KO) in adult muscle led to diminished lean mass, reduced exercise capacity, and perturbed fuel selection in the settings of energetic stress, without affecting whole-body glucose tolerance. Proteomics and phospho-proteomics analyses of iSTIM1 KO muscles revealed molecular signatures of low-grade E/SR stress and broad activation of processes and signaling networks involved in proteostasis. Conclusion: These results show that STIM1 regulates cellular and mitochondrial Ca2+ dynamics, energy metabolism and proteostasis in adult skeletal muscles. Furthermore, these findings provide insight into the pathophysiology of muscle diseases linked to disturbances in STIM1-dependent Ca2+ handling.

The human management of honey bees (Apis mellifera) has resulted in the widespread introduction of subspecies outside of their native ranges. One well known example of this is Apis mellifera mellifera, native to Northern Europe, which has now been significantly introgressed by the introduction of C lineage honey bees. Introgression has consequences for species in terms of future adaptive potential and long-term viability. However, estimating introgression in colony-living haplodiploid species is challenging. Previous studies have estimated introgression using individual workers, individual drones, multiple drones, and pooled workers. Here, we compare introgression estimates via three genetic approaches: SNP array, individual RAD-seq, and pooled colony RAD-seq. We also compare two statistical approaches: a maximum likelihood cluster program (ADMIXTURE) and an incomplete lineage sorting model (ABBA BABA). Overall, individual approaches resulted in lower introgression estimates than pooled colonies when using ADMIXTURE. However, the pooled colony ABBA BABA approach resulted in generally lower introgression estimates than all three ADMIXTURE estimates. These results highlight that sometimes one individual is not enough to assess colony-level introgression, and future studies that do use colony pools should not be solely dependent on clustering programs for introgression estimates.

Clinicians frequently assess asymmetry in strength, flexibility, and performance characteristics as a method of screening for potential musculoskeletal injury. The identification of asymmetry in countermovement jumps may be an ideal method to reveal asymmetry in other lower extremity characteristics such as strength that otherwise may require additional testing, potentially reducing the time and burden on both the athlete and clinicians. The present study aims to examine the ability of asymmetry in both the single-leg and two-leg countermovement jump tests to accurately detect hip abduction, hip adduction, and eccentric hamstring strength asymmetry. Fifty-eight young male elite soccer players from the same professional academy performed a full battery of functional performance tests which included an assessment of hip adductor and abductor strength profiles, eccentric hamstring strength profiles, and neuromuscular performance and asymmetries during countermovement jumps. Bilateral variables attained from both the single-leg and two-leg countermovement jump tests included concentric impulse (Ns), eccentric mean force (N), and concentric mean force (N) computed by the VALD ForceDecks software. Average maximal force (N) was calculated bilaterally for the strength assessments. Asymmetry was calculated for each variable using 100 × |(right leg − left leg)/(right leg)| and grouped into three categories: 0 to