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Sexual risk behavior (SRB) includes behavioral (sex without contraception, sexualized substance use, sex work, sexual partner violence, other sexual activities that harm oneself or others) and affective subtypes (sexuality-related feelings of shame/guilt, relationship impairments) and leads to psychosocial and health-related consequences. Young adults comprise a vulnerable group regarding the development of SRB. The study aimed to identify SRB patterns among young adults and their relation to sexuality-related risk factors. A cross-sectional online survey measured behavioral and affective aspects of SRB with nine items. Latent class analysis was conducted to identify patterns of SRB. Gender, sexual orientation, age of first intercourse, number of sexual partners, hypersexuality, and sexual dysfunction were captured as risk factors via multinomial logistic regression. Within this convenience sample (n = 609; nfemale = 365; nmale = 245; Mage = 23.1 years), the SRB patterns unremarkable (67%; low values in all SRB subtypes), shame-ridden (17%; high values in sexual feelings of shame/guilt) and risky sexual behavior (16%; high values in all subtypes of SRB, especially sexualized drug use) were identified. The shame-ridden and risky patterns were strongly associated with higher hypersexuality values, the risky pattern moreover with being non-heterosexual, of younger age at first sexual experience, and a higher number of sexual partners. Male and sexual minority participants demonstrated SRB more often than females and heterosexuals. Within prevention and treatment of SRB, it seems beneficial to address sexuality-related feelings of shame/guilt and addictive patterns (concerning sexual behaviors/substances) via gender- and diversity-sensitive measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The minimizing Delta Debugging (DDMIN) was among the first algorithms designed to automate the task of reducing test cases. Its popularity is based on the characteristics that it works on any kind of input, without knowledge about the input structure. Several studies proved that smaller outputs can be produced faster with more advanced techniques (e.g., building a tree representation of the input and reducing that data structure); however, if the structure is unknown or changing frequently, maintaining the descriptors might not be resource‐efficient. Therefore, in this paper, we focus on the evaluation of the novel fixed‐point iteration of minimizing Delta Debugging (DDMIN*) on publicly available test suites related to software engineering. Our experiments show that DDMIN* can help reduce inputs further by 48.08% on average compared to DDMIN (using lines as the units of the reduction). Although the effectiveness of the algorithm improved, it comes with the cost of additional testing steps. This study shows how the characteristics of the input affect the results and when it pays off using DDMIN*. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species identification of mangrove crabs at the juvenile stages is crucial for maximizing production. Traditional knowledge in identifying juvenile mangrove crabs (Scylla spp.) is mainstream although the techniques vary with locations and are yet to be validated for their effectiveness. In this study, widespread traditional techniques for identifying juvenile Scylla were validated by looking for patterns through principal component analysis in dorsal carapace features -- including bumps, black spots, coloration, and shape -- as determined by CL:ICW. The less prominent bumps on the dorsal carapace and the lower CL:ICW of S. olivacea were seen to have the potential for nationwide adoption to distinguish this least preferred species. The dorsal carapace color varies across species but is inconsistent across regions. The presence of black and white spots, texture features such as depression on the center of the dorsal carapace, and growth rates of the samples were found to have no diagnostic applications for juvenile Scylla. This study confirmed the utility of some traditional techniques to identify juvenile S. olivacea without the aid of a device, but no consistent method to differentiate S. serrata from S. tranquebarica was found. Image analysis data on these validated techniques can be added to the machine learning algorithm of existing species identification tools to increase accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increase in crude oil transport throughout Canada, the potential for spills into freshwater ecosystems has increased and additional research is needed in these sensitive environments. Large enclosures erected in a lake were used as mesocosms for this controlled experimental dilbit (diluted bitumen) spill under ambient environmental conditions. The microbial response to dilbit, the efficacy of standard remediation protocols on different shoreline types commonly found in Canadian freshwater lakes, including a testing of a shoreline washing agent were all evaluated. We found that the native microbial community did not undergo any significant shifts in composition after exposure to dilbit or the ensuing remediation treatments. Regardless of the treatment, sample type (soil, sediment, or water), or type of associated shoreline, the community remained relatively consistent over a 3-month monitoring period. Following this, metagenomic analysis of polycyclic aromatic and alkane hydrocarbon degradation mechanisms also showed that while many key genes identified in PAH and alkane biodegradation were present, their abundance did not change significantly over the course of the experiment. These results showed that the native microbial community present in a pristine freshwater lake has the prerequisite mechanisms for hydrocarbon degradation in place, and combined with standard remediation practices in use in Canada, has the genetic potential and resilience to potentially undertake bioremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The overall impact of a crude oil spill into a pristine freshwater environment in Canada is largely unknown. To evaluate the impact on the native microbial community, a large-scale in situ model experimental spill was conducted to assess the potential role of the natural community to attenuate hydrocarbons. A small volume of conventional heavy crude oil (CHV) was introduced within contained mesocosm enclosures deployed on the shoreline of a freshwater lake. The oil was left to interact with the shoreline for 72 h and then free-floating oil was recovered using common oil spill response methods (i.e. freshwater flushing and capture on oleophilic absorptive media). Residual polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations returned to near preoiling concentrations within 2 months, while the microbial community composition across the water, soil, and sediment matrices of the enclosed oligotrophic freshwater ecosystems did not shift significantly over this period. Metagenomic analysis revealed key polycyclic aromatic and alkane degradation mechanisms also did not change in their relative abundance over the monitoring period. These trends suggest that for small spills (<2 l of oil per 15 m2 of surface freshwater), physical oil recovery reduces polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon concentrations to levels tolerated by the native microbial community. Additionally, the native microbial community present in the monitored pristine freshwater ecosystem possesses the appropriate hydrocarbon degradation mechanisms without prior challenge by hydrocarbon substrates. This study corroborated trends found previously (Kharey et al. 2024) toward freshwater hydrocarbon degradation in an environmentally relevant scale and conditions on the tolerance of residual hydrocarbons in situ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Across the human genome, there are large-scale fluctuations in genetic diversity caused by the indirect effects of selection. This "linked selection signal" reflects the impact of selection according to the physical placement of functional regions and recombination rates along chromosomes. Previous work has shown that purifying selection acting against the steady influx of new deleterious mutations at functional portions of the genome shapes patterns of genomic variation. To date, statistical efforts to estimate purifying selection parameters from linked selection models have relied on classic Background Selection theory, which is only applicable when new mutations are so deleterious that they cannot fix in the population. Here, we develop a statistical method based on a quantitative genetics view of linked selection, that models how polygenic additive fitness variance distributed along the genome increases the rate of stochastic allele frequency change. By jointly predicting the equilibrium fitness variance and substitution rate due to both strong and weakly deleterious mutations, we estimate the distribution of fitness effects (DFE) and mutation rate across three geographically distinct human samples. While our model can accommodate weaker selection, we find evidence of strong selection operating similarly across all human samples. Although our quantitative genetic model of linked selection fits better than previous models, substitution rates of the most constrained sites disagree with observed divergence levels. We find that a model incorporating selective interference better predicts observed divergence in conserved regions, but overall our results suggest uncertainty remains about the processes generating fitness variation in humans. Author summary: Across the human genome, there are large-scale fluctuations in genetic diversity caused by the indirect effects of selection. This "linked selection signal" reflects the impact of selection according to the physical placement of functional regions and recombination rates along chromosomes. Previous work has shown that purifying selection acting against the steady influx of new deleterious mutations at functional portions of the genome shapes patterns of genomic variation. To date, statistical efforts to estimate purifying selection parameters from linked selection models have relied on classic Background Selection theory, which is only applicable when new mutations are so deleterious that they cannot fix in the population. Here, we develop a statistical method based on a quantitative genetics view of linked selection, that models how polygenic additive fitness variance distributed along the genome increases the rate of stochastic allele frequency change. By jointly predicting the equilibrium fitness variance and substitution rate due to both strong and weakly deleterious mutations, we estimate the distribution of fitness effects (DFE) and mutation rate across three geographically distinct human samples. While our model can accommodate weaker selection, we find evidence of strong selection operating similarly across all human samples. Although our quantitative genetic model of linked selection fits better than previous models, substitution rates of the most constrained sites disagree with observed divergence levels. We find that a model incorporating selective interference better predicts observed divergence in conserved regions, but overall our results suggest uncertainty remains about the processes generating fitness variation in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The global use of anthropogenic radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) in wireless technologies is increasing exponentially and presents a potential risk to animals, especially domestic animals and pets. Additionally, the semen of boar is, in the process of collection, manipulation and storage for the artificial insemination (AI) of sows, surrounded by and exposed to these different sources of wireless technologies devices. A frequency of 2.5 GHz (this frequency band is used in 5G technology) is of particular interest because many studies have used the frequency bands of 4G technology. For the efficiency of pig production and breeding, it is extremely important to determine the effects of such radiation on semen quality and sow fertilization success. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effect of RF-EMR at 2500 MHz on in vitro exposed breeding boar semen spermatozoa motility and the proportions of spermatozoa subpopulations according to morphometric parameters. The progressive spermatozoa motility and the proportion of the spermatozoa subpopulation with a higher fertilizing potential were significantly reduced in the experimental group. These results indicate the importance of further research on the effects of RF-EMR on different animal species, especially in those undergoing AI procedures, which are important both in terms of the quality of semen and fertilization and production and breeding goals. Anthropogenic radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) from wireless technologies has increased dramatically. The boar semen used for artificial insemination is essential in sustaining the pig industry, and additionally it is also exposed to the effects of the RF-EMR of wireless technologies. Furthermore, there are no data on the effects of RF-EMR on semen quality, and this is the first analysis of sperm's morphometric parameters for assessing the effect of RF-EMR on the spermatozoa subpopulations of boars. This study investigated the effect of RF-EMR on in vitro exposed breeding boar semen spermatozoa motility and the proportions of spermatozoa subpopulations according to their morphometric head and tail parameters. The semen samples of 12 boars were divided into control and experimental groups. The samples in the experimental group were exposed in a gigahertz transverse electromagnetic chamber at a frequency of 2500 MHz (the frequency band used in 5G technology) and an electric field strength of 10 Vm−1 for two hours. After exposure, the spermatozoa motility was evaluated for both groups. A morphometric analysis of the semen smears was performed using SFORM software (Version 1.0; VAMS, Zagreb, Croatia). The progressive spermatozoa motility was significantly reduced in the experimental group (74.7% vs. 85.7%). PC analysis and cluster analysis revealed two spermatozoa subpopulations: S1, spermatozoa with a more regular head shape and a smaller midpiece outline, and S2, spermatozoa with a more elongated head shape and a larger midpiece outline. The experimental semen samples had a greater proportion of the S1 spermatozoa subpopulation (68.2% vs. 64.4%). The effect of RF-EMR at 2500 MHz on the in vitro exposed boar semen resulted in decreased progressive spermatozoa motility and a lower proportion of the spermatozoa subpopulation with a higher fertilizing potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the experiences of five distance learners at a UK university who needed support to resubmit their final assignment following a fail result. Having received written feedback on the submission, we asked how this could be best delivered to inform and motivate a successful resubmission. Written feedback alone was found to be insufficient for these students to feel supported. There is a need also for a human connection to provide 'emotional proximity' and make sense of the feedback received. In addition to this, students benefit from positive self-talk strategies to come to terms with the difficult emotions resulting from the high stakes of having to resubmit their assignment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goals of this study are to describe machine learning techniques employing computer-vision movement algorithms to automatically evaluate infants' general movements (GMs) in the writhing stage. This is a retrospective study of infants admitted 07/2019 to 11/2021 to a level IV neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Infant GMs, classified by certified expert, were analyzed in two-steps (1) determination of anatomic key point location using a NICU-trained pose estimation model [accuracy determined using object key point similarity (OKS)]; (2) development of a preliminary movement model to distinguish normal versus cramped-synchronized (CS) GMs using cosine similarity and autocorrelation of major joints. GMs were analyzed using 85 videos from 74 infants; gestational age at birth 28.9 ± 4.1 weeks and postmenstrual age (PMA) at time of video 35.9 ± 4.6 weeks The NICU-trained pose estimation model was more accurate (0.91 ± 0.008 OKS) than a generic model (0.83 ± 0.032 OKS, p < 0.001). Autocorrelation values in the lower limbs were significantly different between normal (5 videos) and CS GMs (5 videos, p < 0.05). These data indicate that automated pose estimation of anatomical key points is feasible in NICU patients and that a NICU-trained model can distinguish between normal and CS GMs. These preliminary data indicate that machine learning techniques may represent a promising tool for earlier CP risk assessment in the writhing stage and prior to hospital discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the racial disparities in prostate cancer care, particularly in screening practices, which vary widely among medical organizations and contribute to confusion and reduced screening rates. Topics include the impact of guideline variations on screening decisions, the persistent mortality disparities despite PSA screening availability, and the complexity introduced by differing recommendations for initiating screening.

We consider the 1015-vertex human consensus connectome computed from the diffusion MRI data of 1064 subjects. We define seven different orders on these 1015 graph vertices, where the orders depend on parameters derived from the brain circuitry, that is, from the properties of the edges (or connections) incident to the vertices ordered. We order the vertices according to their degree, the sum, the maximum, and the average of the fiber counts on the incident edges, and the sum, the maximum and the average length of the fibers in the incident edges. We analyze the similarities of these seven orders by the Spearman correlation coefficient and by their inversion numbers and have found that all of these seven orders have great similarities. In other words, if we interpret the orders as scoring of the importance of the vertices in the consensus connectome, then the scores of the vertices will be similar in all seven orderings. That is, important vertices of the human connectome typically have many neighbors connected with long and thick axonal fibers (where thickness is measured by fiber numbers), and their incident edges have high maximum and average values of length and fiber-number parameters, too. Therefore, these parameters may yield robust ways of deciding which vertices are more important in the anatomy of our brain circuitry than the others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Financial time series and other human-driven, non-natural processes are known to exhibit fat-tailed outcome distributions. That is, such processes demonstrate a greater tendency for extreme outcomes than the normal distribution or other natural distributional processes would predict. We examine the mathematical expectation, or simply "expectation", traditionally the probability-weighted outcome, regarded since the seventeenth century as the mathematical definition of "expectation". However, when considering the "expectation" of an individual confronted with a finite sequence of outcomes, particularly existential outcomes (e.g., a trader with a limited time to perform or lose his position in a trading operation), we find this individual "expects" the median terminal outcome over those finite trials, with the classical seventeenth-century definition being the asymptotic limit as trials increase. Since such finite-sequence "expectations" often differ in values from the classic one, so do the optimal allocations (e.g., growth-optimal). We examine these for fat-tailed distributions. The focus is on implementation, and the techniques described can be applied to all distributional forms. We make no assertion that the empirical data for any financial time series comports to the generalized hyperbolic distribution (GHD), which we will use as a proxy of any heavy-tailed distribution herein. Rather, we have selected the GHD to highlight the process for determining expectation and other important time-dependent metrics in existential contests, using the GHD as a generic proxy for the specific distributional form an implementor of the presented technique might ascribe to the empirical data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The blood coagulation response to decompression stress in humans has yet to be fully investigated. Here we utilised calibrated automated thrombogram (CAT) on samples from healthy volunteers exposed to decompression stress to investigate real-time thrombin generation. To induce decompression stress, fifteen apparently healthy males (age 20–50 yr) were exposed to two consecutive ascents to 25,000 ft for 60 min (1st ascent) and then 90 min (2nd ascent) while breathing 100% oxygen. Citrated blood samples were taken prior to exposure (T0), following the 2nd ascent (T8) and at 24 h (T24). Thrombin generation curves were obtained using ThrombinoscopeTM. Parameters determined were lag time (LAG), time to peak (TTP), peak thrombin (PEAK), endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) and velocity index (VEL). Of the 15 subjects, 12 had validated coagulation profiles. TTP and ETP showed no significant differences. However, there was a significant increase in VEL from T0 to T8 (p = 0.025) and from T8 to T24 (p = 0.043). A non-significant trend of an overall increase in PEAK was also observed from T0 to T8 (p = 0.069) and from T8 to T24 (p = 0.098). PEAK and VEL were found to be correlated. Taken together, these two parameters suggest an overall shift towards a more procoagulant profile following hypobaric stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The LogRank conjecture of Lovász and Saks (1988) is the most famous open problem in communication complexity theory. The statement is as follows: suppose that two players intend to compute a Boolean function f (x , y) when x is known for the first and y for the second player, and they may send and receive messages encoded with bits, then they can compute f (x , y) with exchanging (log   rank (M f)) c bits, where M f is a Boolean matrix, determined by function f. The problem is widely open and very popular, and it has resisted numerous attacks in the last 35 years. The best upper bound is still exponential in the bound of the conjecture. Unfortunately, we cannot prove the conjecture, but we present a communication protocol with (log   rank (M f)) c bits, which computes a (somewhat) related quantity to f (x , y) . The relation is characterized by the representation of low-degree, multi-linear polynomials modulo composite numbers. Our result may help to settle this long-open conjecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Shelterin complex protein TPP1 interacts with human telomerase (TERT) by means of the TEL-patch region, controlling telomere homeostasis. Aberrations in the TPP1-TERT heterodimer formation might lead to short telomeres and severe diseases like dyskeratosis congenita and Hoyeraal-Hreidarsson syndrome. In the present study, we provide a thorough characterization of the structural properties of the TPP1's OB-domain by combining data coming from microsecond-long molecular dynamics calculations, time-series analyses, and graph-based networks. Our results show that the TEL-patch conformational freedom is influenced by a network of long-range amino acid communications that together determine the proper TPP1-TERT binding. Furthermore, we reveal that in TPP1 pathological variants Glu169Δ, Lys170Δ and Leu95Gln, the TEL-patch plasticity is reduced, affecting the correct binding to TERT and, in turn, telomere processivity, which eventually leads to accelerated aging of affected cells. Our study provides a structural basis for the design of TPP1-targeting ligands with therapeutic potential against cancer and telomeropathies. The binding interaction between the Shelterin complex protein TPP1 and the human telomerase enzyme can trigger telomerase maintenance, however, the conformational change of TPP1 functional for binding remains underexplored. Here, the authors characterize the structural properties of a group of amino acids named the TEL-patch within TPP1's oligosaccharide/oligonucleotide-domain by molecular dynamics simulation, time-series analyses, and graph-based networks, revealing their conformational plasticity and allosteric communication networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Understanding the cellular neurobiology of psychedelics is crucial for unlocking their therapeutic potential and expanding our understanding of consciousness. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the cellular neurobiology of psychedelics, shedding light on the intricate mechanisms through which these compounds exert their profound effects. Given the significant global burden of mental illness and the limited efficacy of existing therapies, the renewed interest in these substances, as well as the discovery of new compounds, may represent a transformative development in the field of biomedical sciences and mental health therapies. Psychedelic substances have gained significant attention in recent years for their potential therapeutic effects on various psychiatric disorders. This review delves into the intricate cellular neurobiology of psychedelics, emphasizing their potential therapeutic applications in addressing the global burden of mental illness. It focuses on contemporary research into the pharmacological and molecular mechanisms underlying these substances, particularly the role of 5-HT2A receptor signaling and the promotion of plasticity through the TrkB-BDNF pathway. The review also discusses how psychedelics affect various receptors and pathways and explores their potential as anti-inflammatory agents. Overall, this research represents a significant development in biomedical sciences with the potential to transform mental health treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Biological effects after a single prenatal exposure to ionizing radiation, reflecting significant heterogeneities in the responses in different species with respect to radiation type, dose, dose rate and time of exposure. Moreover, current knowledge and obtained results for poultry exposed to low dose ionizing radiation are inconsistent and almost lacking at present. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of low dose gamma radiation on protein profile in blood of chickens irradiated in ovo. Material and Methods: Fertilized chicken eggs in the experimental group were exposed to 0.3 Gy gamma radiation one hour before incubation, and control group was sham irradiated. Blood samples were taken on 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th and 10th days of life. The plasma proteins fractions were separated by electrophoresis, while total protein and albumin levels were determined using the spectrophotometric method. Results: The obtained differences between control and experimental groups for total protein and albumin concentrations were statistically nonsignificant during our research. Total globulins were increased 10th day of chick's life due to an increase in alpha globulins (P < 0.05). In contrast, gamma globulins were decreased in one-day-old chickens exposed to ionizing radiation (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Our study indicates a significant effect of low-dose ionizing radiation on protein synthesis after in ovo exposure, although more research is needed to determine underlying molecular mechanisms triggered by low-dose gamma radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices have been applied in various industries to design, simulate and verify complex systems. The verification and validation (V&V) of such systems engineering models are crucial to develop high‐quality systems. However, this is a challenging problem due to the complexity of the models and semantic differences in how different tools interpret the models, which can undermine the validity of the obtained results if they go undiscovered. To address these issues, we propose (i) a subset of the SysML language for which the practical semantic integrity of tools can be achieved and (ii) a cloud‐based V&V framework for this subset, lifting verification to an industrial scale. We demonstrate the feasibility of our approach on an industrial‐scale model from the aerospace domain and summarize the lessons learned during transitioning formal verification tools to an industrial context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TNF signaling does not result in cell death unless multiple inhibitory signals are overcome, which can be accomplished by simultaneous signaling through IFNγ. In this issue, Deng and colleagues (http://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.202305026) dissect the mechanisms by which IFNγ signaling combines with TNF tomediate cell death through caspase-8, discussed by James E. Vince. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT In this article I offer an analysis of harms associated with sexual objectification. Objectification can be benign, but harm tends to occur in three circumstances: (i) when objectification is non‐consensual, (ii) when a phenomenon that I term ‘context‐creeping’ occurs, and (iii) when the objectification is also enacting or reinforcing some kind of oppression. I defend the view that objectification is not always harmful, and I explain the popular intuition to the contrary by demonstrating that these three harm‐generating circumstances are especially prevalent. The phenomenon of ‘context‐creeping’ objectification is introduced to capture what is intuitively wrong with much objectification in media and advertising. This phenomenon describes when instances of sexual objectification (which may be, in themselves, benign) regularly occur outside sexual contexts, in a way that reinforces particular rape myths and thereby contributes to harms. This means that the ubiquity of discussion of pornography in the objectification literature is misleading, and a shift in focus to other media is warranted. I end with a warning, though: we should be very careful in how we respond to these problems, as attempts to mitigate any harms associated with objectifying media can badly misfire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we develop a model for the capabilities required by principals for effective Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) leadership. The model underpinned a large national cross-sectional research and development project across Australian states in both primary and secondary schools. This model is developed via synthesis of research literature across leadership and STEM education. The model consists of five dimensions of principals' STEM capability: (1) STEM discipline-specific and integrated knowledge and practices; (2) contexts; (3) dispositions; (4) tools; and (5) critical orientation. These dimensions represent distinct, but interrelated, capacities required by principals to establish and maintain positive STEM learning cultures within schools. Elaborations have been provided, in the form of capabilities, for each of these dimensions. The model has the potential for shaping principals' STEM leadership development trajectories and structuring targeted professional learning programmes for principals, teachers and other members of the school community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on healthcare and the potential loss of human interaction in clinical encounters. It highlights the benefits of AI in improving diagnostic accuracy and streamlining administrative tasks but also raises concerns about data overload and ethical considerations. The article presents conflicting views on the future of AI in healthcare, with some suggesting that it will enhance human professionals' work and others predicting that it may replace healthcare specialists. The author emphasizes the importance of embodied clinical interaction and the potential loss of meaningful moments and human connection in healthcare. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: It has been determined that exercise identity is a key component of the self-concept and is a strong determinant of exercise behaviors. The purpose of the present study was to examine exercise identity's relationship with three key self-presentational variables: self-presentational efficacy, social physique anxiety, and impression motivation. Methods: We looked at how exercise identity contributed uniquely to predicting exercise behavior over and above these self-presentational concerns for both males 10 (n = 140) and females (n = 234) recruited from two university communities. Participant's age ranged from 18–68 years, the majority identified as students, and as Caucasian. Results: The analyses demonstrated that exercise identity was positively correlated with self-presentational efficacy and unrelated to social physique anxiety in both genders. Further analyses revealed that exercise identity contributes a significant amount of variance toward exercise behavior over and above what is accounted for by self-presentational efficacy, social physique anxiety, and impression motivation. Lastly, exercise identity did not moderate the social physique anxiety-exercise relationship in either gender. Conclusion: These findings advance our knowledge of exercise identity and its relationship with various important constructs has been determined that exercise identity is a key component of the self-concept and is a strong determinant of exercise behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Control systems are typically tightly embedded into their environment to enable adaptation to environmental effects. As the complexity of such adaptive systems is rapidly increasing, there is a strong need for coherent tool‐centric approaches to aid their systematic development. This paper proposes an end‐to‐end component‐based specification, design and verification approach for adaptive systems based on the integration of a high‐level scenario language (sequence chart variant) and an adaptation definition language (statechart extension) in the open source Gamma tool. The scenario language supports high‐level constructs for specifying contracts and the adaptation definition language supports the flexible activation and deactivation of static contracts and managed elements (state‐based components) based on internal changes (e.g., faults), environmental changes (e.g., varying context) or interactions. The approach supports linking managed elements to static contracts to formally verify their adherence to the specified behavior at design time using integrated model checkers. Implementation can be derived from the adaptation model automatically, which can be tested using automated test generation and verified at runtime by contract‐based monitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because connectivity is such a basic concept in graph theory, extremal problems concerning the average order of the connected induced subgraphs of a graph have been of notable interest. A particularly resistant open problem is whether or not, for a connected graph G $G$ of order n $n$, all of whose vertices have degree at least 3, this average is at least n ∕ 2 $n\unicode{x02215}2$. It is shown in this paper that if G $G$ is a connected, vertex transitive graph, then the average order of the connected induced subgraphs of G $G$ is at least n ∕ 2 $n\unicode{x02215}2$.The extremal graph theory problems mentioned above lead to a broader theory. The concept of a Union‐Intersection System (UIS) S ≔(P , B ) ${\mathscr{S}}:= (P,{\rm{ {\mathcal B} }})$ is introduced, P $P$ being a finite set of points and B ${\rm{ {\mathcal B} }}$ a set of subsets of P $P$ called blocks satisfying the following simple property for all A , B ∈ B $A,B\in {\rm{ {\mathcal B} }}$: if A ∩ B ∈ B $A\cap B\in {\rm{ {\mathcal B} }}$, then A ∪ B ∈ B $A\cup B\in {\rm{ {\mathcal B} }}$. To generalize results on the average order of a connected induced subgraph of a graph, it is conjectured that if a UIS is, in various senses, “connected and regular,” then the average size of a block is at least half the number of points. We prove that if a union‐intersection set system is regular, completely irreducible, and nonredundant, then the average size of a block is at least half the number of points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivation Managing data and code in open scientific research is complicated by two key problems: large datasets often cannot be stored alongside code in repository platforms like GitHub, and iterative analysis can lead to unnoticed changes to data, increasing the risk that analyses are based on older versions of data. Results SciDataFlow is a fast, concurrent command-line tool paired with a simple Data Manifest specification that streamlines tracking data changes, uploading data to remote repositories, and pulling in all data necessary to reproduce a computational analysis. Availability and implementation SciDataFlow is available at https://github.com/vsbuffalo/scidataflow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation carries out a Systematic Review of the scientific Literature to analyze the purification methods of treatment of affluent with a high content of heavy metals that affects metallic structures, reported in the scientific literature. A total of 805 studies obtained from the Scopus, IEEE, Web of Science, Scielo, Elsevier, Springer databases were initially retrieved; with the Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar and IEEE Xplore search engines; Finally, 16 were included in this investigation. As a fundamental result, 12 methods of purification of affluent contaminated with heavy metals were identified. For the present investigation, the conventional treatment methods for developing countries were especially significant. The results obtained in several investigations indicate that metallic structures are affected when they are in contact with tributaries with a high content of heavy metals, mainly when the tributary is related to industrial waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: It is unknown whether ustekinumab (UST) levels can predict clinical outcomes in Crohn's disease (CD) patients. We assessed the exposure–response relationship of UST trough concentrations with biochemical outcomes at week 24 in a prospective, real-world setting. Methods: We performed a prospective study in patients with CD starting UST in four academic centres in the Netherlands. All patients received a weight-adjusted intravenous (IV) UST induction dose, followed by one subcutaneous (SC) dose of 90 mg UST at 8 weeks. Maintenance therapy consisted of 90 mg subcutaneous UST every 8 or 12 weeks. Individual UST concentration time course during treatment were estimated using a population pharmacokinetic (PK) model. Quartile analysis and logistic regression were performed to analyse if UST concentrations at week 8 were associated with biochemical remission rates at week 24 (C-reactive protein (CRP) ≤ 5 mg/L and / or faecal calprotectin (FC) ≤ 250 mg/kg). Results: In total, 124 patients with CD were included. Patients achieving biochemical remission at week 12 and 24 had significantly higher UST levels at week 8 compared to patients without biochemical remission (6.6 µg/mL versus 3.9 µg/mL, P < 0.01 and 6.3 µg/mL versus 3.9 µg/mL, P < 0.01, respectively). In quartile analysis, patients with UST levels in the highest quartile (≥ 6.3 µg/mL at week 8) had higher biochemical remission rates at week 12 and week 24. There was no association between UST levels at and corticosteroid-free clinical remission rates. Conclusion: In this real-world cohort of patients with CD, UST levels in the highest quartile (≥ 6.3 µg/mL) at week 8 were associated with higher biochemical remission rates at week 24. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gene co‐expression network analysis is an efficient systems biology approach for the discovery of novel gene functions and trait‐associated gene modules. To identify clusters of functionally related genes involved in soybean nodule formation and development, we performed a weighted gene co‐expression network analysis. Two nodule‐specific modules (NSM‐1 and NSM‐2, containing 304 and 203 genes, respectively) were identified. The NSM‐1 gene promoters were significantly enriched in cis‐binding elements for ERF, MYB, and C2H2‐type zinc transcription factors, whereas NSM‐2 gene promoters were enriched in cis‐binding elements for TCP, bZIP, and bHLH transcription factors, suggesting a role of these regulatory factors in the transcriptional activation of nodule co‐expressed genes. The co‐expressed gene modules included genes with potential novel roles in nodulation, including those involved in xylem development, transmembrane transport, the ethylene signalling pathway, cytoskeleton organization, cytokinesis and regulation of the cell cycle, regulation of meristem initiation and growth, transcriptional regulation, DNA methylation, and histone modifications. Functional analysis of two co‐expressed genes using TILLING mutants provided novel insight into the involvement of unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis and folate metabolism in nodule formation and development. The identified gene co‐expression modules provide valuable resources for further functional genomics studies to dissect the genetic basis of nodule formation and development in soybean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim This study aimed to simulate deactivation of Escherichia coli in soils amended with cattle manure after burning, anaerobic digestion, composting, or without treatment. Method and results The Weibull survival function was used to describe deactivation of E. coli. Parameters for each treatment were determined using E. coli measurements from manure-amended soils and evaluated against measurements at different application rates. A statistically significant correlation and high coincidence between the simulated and measured values were obtained. The simulations revealed that although anaerobic digestion or burning of cattle manure effectively reduced the E. coli loads to background levels, burning retained very little nitrogen, so the ash residue was ineffective as an organic fertilizer. Anaerobic digestion was most effective at reducing E. coli levels while retaining a high proportion of N in the bioslurry residue, but the persistence of E. coli was higher than in compost. Conclusion The results from this study suggest that the safest method for production of organic fertilizer would involve anaerobic digestion to reduce E. coli , followed by composting to reduce its persistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on exploring the dynamics of identity, belonging, and community within the queer Asian diaspora in Toronto, Ontario. It discusses the complexities of navigating multiple identities, such as being queer and Asian, and the tensions that arise within the community. It also delves into the concept of "queer hurting," which refers to the emotional and psychological pain experienced by queer individuals, particularly within their own communities.

Ultrasound-mediated cavitation has been harnessed to improve the delivery of various therapeutics, including the extravasation of small molecule drugs and nanoparticles (<1 µm) into soft tissue. This study investigated whether cavitation could also enhance the extravasation of larger (>10 µm) therapeutic particles, representative of radio- or chemo-embolic particles, in a tissue-mimicking phantom. High-speed (103–106 frames/s) optical imaging was used to observe the motion of glass microspheres with diameters of 15–32 or 105–107 µm in an agar phantom under exposure to high-intensity focused ultrasound (0.5 MHz) at a range of peak negative pressures (1.9–2.8 MPa) in the presence of SonoVue microbubbles. In contrast to the microstreaming reported to be responsible for nanoparticle transport, the formation and translation of bubble clouds were found to be primarily responsible for the motion of glass microspheres. The bubble clouds were seen both to create channels in the phantom and to travel along them under the action of primary acoustic radiation force, either propelling or entraining microspheres with them. Collisions between microspheres were also seen to promote cloud formation and cavitation activity. Ultrasound-mediated cavitation can promote the transport of solid microparticles in tissue-mimicking material. Further work is needed to understand the influence of tissue mechanical properties and ultrasound exposure parameters on the extent and uniformity of particle distribution that can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Elevated blood pressure (BP) is a prevalent modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and contributes to cognitive decline in late life. Despite the fact that functional changes may precede irreversible structural damage and emerge in an ongoing manner, studies have been predominantly informed by brain structure and group-level inferences. Here, we aim to delineate neurobiological correlates of BP at an individual level using machine learning and functional connectivity. Methods and results Based on whole-brain functional connectivity from the UK Biobank, we built a machine learning model to identify neural representations for individuals' past (∼8.9 years before scanning, N = 35 882), current (N = 31 367), and future (∼2.4 years follow-up, N = 3 138) BP levels within a repeated cross-validation framework. We examined the impact of multiple potential covariates, as well as assessed these models' generalizability across various contexts. The predictive models achieved significant correlations between predicted and actual systolic/diastolic BP and pulse pressure while controlling for multiple confounders. Predictions for participants not on antihypertensive medication were more accurate than for currently medicated patients. Moreover, the models demonstrated robust generalizability across contexts in terms of ethnicities, imaging centres, medication status, participant visits, gender, age, and body mass index. The identified connectivity patterns primarily involved the cerebellum, prefrontal, anterior insula, anterior cingulate cortex, supramarginal gyrus, and precuneus, which are key regions of the central autonomic network, and involved in cognition processing and susceptible to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease. Results also showed more involvement of default mode and frontoparietal networks in predicting future BP levels and in medicated participants. Conclusion This study, based on the largest neuroimaging sample currently available and using machine learning, identifies brain signatures underlying BP, providing evidence for meaningful BP-associated neural representations in connectivity profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to contribute to the scholarship on queer spaces and queer film festivals by offering an approach that critically analyses white normativity within the queer film festival, scrutinising both who shapes these spaces and for whom they are shaped. Situating queer film festivals as political sites of counterpublics that enable potential resistance and solidarity against dominant heteronormativity and cisnormativity, this article examines whiteness and white privilege within those spaces, using London's 2018 BFI Flare: LGBTQ+ Film Festival as a case study. In-depth discourse analysis of Flare's 2018 festival documents and ephemera informs the article's argument. Building upon intersectional and postcolonial feminist work on spaces and diversity politics, this piece contends that current Western queer film festivals, such as Flare, are spaces embedded in homonationalist discourse that replicate historical in/exclusion and construct racialised arenas. In this way, they perform "feel good" diversity while lacking an interrogation of normative whiteness, able-bodiedness, and cis male gayness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, Black men in the United States are greater than 1.5 times as likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and more than twice as likely to succumb to the disease. While racial disparities in prostate cancer have been well documented, we must analyze these disparities in the correct context. Discussion of these disparities without correctly describing race as a social construct and acknowledging the impact of structural racism is insufficient. This article reviews the disparities seen in screening, treatment, outcomes, and clinical trial participation. We conclude by outlining future steps to help understand and study disparities, as we strive toward equitable outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused changes in human behavior, such as wearing masks and reducing public activities, which have also affected the behavior of urban wildlife. However, the impact of COVID-19-related activities, particularly mask wearing, on urban wildlife is not yet fully understood, especially in the Philippines, where COVID-19 mask wearing restrictions persisted longer than in other nations. To address this, we assessed the response to mask wearing of two common urban bird species by examining their flight escape strategies, such as alert and flight initiation distances. Our study showed that mask wearing reduces bird vigilance against intruders, but the response was species-specific. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant changes in public and human activities worldwide, including using masks and reducing human interaction. These changes have also affected wildlife behavior, especially in urban areas. However, there is limited understanding of the impact of COVID-19-related human activities, mainly mask wearing, on the behavior of urban bird species. This case is intriguing in the Philippines, where COVID-19 restrictions and mask wearing have been more prolonged than in other countries. We studied two common urban bird species (Geopelia striata and Passer montanus) in Southcentral Mindanao, Philippines, to assess their response to mask wearing by examining their alert distance (AD) and flight initiation distance (FID). We found that birds had a reduced FID to mask wearing, but only significantly in G. striata (Zebra Doves) and not in P. montanus (Eurasian tree sparrow). The effect of the variables related to urbanization on FID was contrasting. For example, ambient noise increased bird vigilance while proximity to roads reduced bird FID in urbanized areas, but their effects were weaker compared to mask wearing. We conclude that mask wearing during the COVID-19 pandemic is a significant environmental element that alters bird escape responses in urban areas, and the effects may be species-specific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article opens a conversation around what constitutes a 'migration experience' by identifying and examining various analytical frameworks that constitute an 'experience' as migration. Unlike previous approaches to describing young people's 'migrant experiences', I do not take the notion as self-explanatory; rather, what we come to know as the 'migrant experience' hides various epistemological and political processes. I begin with an analysis of different conceptualisations of experience such as mediated, unmediated and experience as strangeness. The discussion then moves onto how these inform the spatial/temporal, critical and phenomenological accounts of an event known as the migration experience. The second part of the article demonstrates what empirical analysis may entail when we examine the idea of the migration experience as an analytical category. By drawing on my students' self-reflective papers on their migration experience, specifically their stories on being Othered in the host and 'home' country and their experience of hybrid identities, we open an analytical space that reveals constructive tensions and synergies among the analytical frameworks. In so doing, the article illuminates and contributes to conceptualising the 'migrant experience' as both a category of analysis and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While patient-level factors influencing active surveillance (AS) use in Michigan are similar to those for the rest of the USA, implementation of a quality improvement initiative led to a drastic increase in AS utilization in Michigan compared to outside the state. Active surveillance (AS) is recommended as a management option for men with favorable-risk (low risk and favorable intermediate risk) prostate cancer; however, national rates remain low. The Michigan Urological Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MUSIC) established a quality improvement (QI) initiative in June 2014 to increase AS utilization. In this report, we analyze the rates of AS utilization over time in the state of Michigan (MUSIC) for men with favorable-risk prostate cancer and compare these to rates for other men diagnosed with favorable-risk prostate cancer in the USA outside the state of Michigan. While the variables that influence AS utilization were the same in both cohorts, we found that the AS utilization rates and the rate of increase were significantly higher in MUSIC. We conclude that the QI initiative started in MUSIC should serve as a roadmap to increasing AS use nationwide. Active surveillance (AS), which involves close monitoring with blood tests and scans, is recommended for management of favorable-risk prostate cancer to avoid or delay unnecessary treatment. Our results show that a quality improvement program in Michigan increased AS use for prostate cancer patients in the state. This program should be used to increase AS uptake throughout the USA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Naked mole-rats live in crowded underground burrows where concentrations of oxygen can be low and concentrations of carbon dioxide can be high. Accordingly, this species is tolerant of low oxygen levels and high carbon dioxide levels, which would be deadly to most surface dwellers. The current article reviews what we know about these unusual tolerances and their underlying mechanisms. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to new strategies for treating human disorders related to low oxygen and high carbon dioxide, as experienced, for example, during a heart attack. Naked mole-rats (Heterocephalus glaber) are very unusual among subterranean mammals in that they live in large colonies and are extremely social, spending large amounts of time gathered together in underground nests more than a meter below the surface. Many respiring individuals resting in deep, poorly ventilated nests deplete the oxygen supply and increase the concentration of carbon dioxide. Consistent with living in that atmosphere, naked mole-rats tolerate levels of low oxygen and high carbon dioxide that are deadly to most surface-dwelling mammals. Naked mole-rats appear to have evolved a number of remarkable adaptations to be able to thrive in this harsh atmosphere. In order to successfully survive low oxygen atmospheres, they conserve energy utilization by reducing the physiological activity of all organs, manifest by reduced heart rate and brain activity. Amazingly, they resort to the anaerobic metabolism of fructose rather than glucose as a fuel to generate energy when challenged by anoxia. Similarly, high carbon dioxide atmospheres normally cause tissue acidosis, while naked mole-rats have a genetic mutation preventing both acid-induced pain and pulmonary edema. Together, these putative adaptations and the tolerances they provide make the naked mole-rat an important model for studying a host of biomedical challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vacuoles, E1 enzyme, x-linked, autoinflammatory, and somatic mutation (VEXAS) syndrome is a recently described disease associated with high morbidity and mortality. VEXAS syndrome results from a somatic mutation affecting UBA1, a gene that codes for the E1 ubiquitin activating protein. Loss of UBA1 leads to a broad range of inflammatory conditions and a clinical course often refractive to therapy. We present the cases of two patients who demonstrated a rapid decline in overall health, decreased energy, arthralgias, anemia, fever, increased inflammatory markers, and characteristic bone marrow. Importantly, dermatologic assessment revealed skin biopsy findings of medium-vessel vasculitis and neutrophilic infiltration. Following blood analysis, both patients were diagnosed with VEXAS syndrome resulting from a mutation in the UBA1 gene. Our report highlights the pivotal role dermatologists have in early diagnosis of patients with VEXAS syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of human brain connectivity, including structural connectivity (SC) and functional connectivity (FC), provides insights into the neurophysiological mechanism of brain function and its relationship to human behavior and cognition. Both types of connectivity measurements provide crucial yet complementary information. However, integrating these two modalities into a single framework remains a challenge, because of the differences in their quantitative interdependencies as well as their anatomical representations due to distinctive imaging mechanisms. In this study, we introduced a new method, joint connectivity matrix independent component analysis (cmICA), which provides a data‐driven parcellation and automated‐linking of SC and FC information simultaneously using a joint analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion‐weighted MRI data. We showed that these two connectivity modalities produce common cortical segregation, though with various degrees of (dis)similarity. Moreover, we show conjoint FC networks and structural white matter tracts that directly link these cortical parcellations/sources, within one analysis. Overall, data‐driven joint cmICA provides a new approach for integrating or fusing structural connectivity and FC systematically and conveniently, and provides an effective tool for connectivity‐based multimodal data fusion in brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Absolute pitch (AP) refers to the naming of musical tone without external reference. The influential two‐component model states that AP is limited by the late‐emerging pitch labeling process only and not the earlier perceptual and memory processes. Over the years, however, support for this model at the neural level has been mixed with various methodological limitations. Here, the electroencephalography responses of 27 AP possessors and 27 non‐AP possessors were recorded. During both name verification and passive listening, event‐related potential analyses showed a difference between AP and non‐AP possessors at about 200 ms in their response toward tones compared with noise stimuli. Multivariate pattern analyses suggested that pitch naming was subserved by a series of transient processes for the first 250 ms, followed by a stage‐like process for both AP and non‐AP possessors with no group differences between them. These findings are inconsistent with the predictions of the two‐component model, and instead suggest the existence of an early perceptual locus of AP. Absolute pitch (AP) is a skill that is of high interest to musicians, and the existing model of AP suggested a late locus associated with tone labeling. Using an event‐related design contrasting AP and non‐AP musicians with noise control, we found an AP‐sensitive ERP effect at about 200 ms, which supported the existence of an early perceptual locus of AP. Our finding calls for a revision of the current theoretical model of AP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single‐use plastics (SUPs) are increasingly polluting terrestrial, coastal, and marine habits, contributing to the creeping "plastic crisis." The COVID‐19 pandemic provided a window of opportunity for decision makers to change the degree of urgency and responsiveness to this crisis and for policy entrepreneurs and industry who are against reducing plastic consumption to influence decision makers to change their position on various plastic‐related issues. Hygiene/health concerns have been used as a justification by governments and industry to increase the use of SUPs resulting in a reversal in, or a reprioritization of, policy decisions. Through the Multiple Streams Framework (MSF), I examine how creeping crises become secondary to urgent crises through agenda setting that is influenced and leveraged by policy entrepreneurs. I explore examples of such plastic policy decisions finding that they have been politically driven and influenced by entrepreneurs and industry rather than being primarily based on health concerns. Related Articles: Diaz‐Kope, Luisa, and John C. Morris. 2022. "Why Collaborate? Exploring the Role of Organizational Motivations in Cross‐sector Watershed Collaboration." Politics & Policy 50(3): 516–39. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12470. Gerlach, John David, Laron K. Williams, and Colleen E. Forcina. 2013. "The Science‐Natural Resource Policy Relationship: How Aspects of Diffusion Theory Explain Data Selection for Making Biodiversity Management Decisions." Politics & Policy 41(3): 326–54. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12017. Neill, Katharine A., and John C. Morris. 2012. "A Tangled Web of Principals and Agents: Examining the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill through a Principal–Agent Lens." Politics & Policy 40(4): 629–56. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2012.00371.x. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of serious games in health care is on the rise, as these games motivate treatment adherence, reduce treatment costs, and educate patients and families. However, current serious games fail to offer personalized interventions, ignoring the need to abandon the one-size-fits-all approach. Moreover, these games, with a primary objective other than pure entertainment, are costly and complex to develop and require the constant involvement of a multidisciplinary team. No standardized approach exists on how serious games can be personalized, as existing literature focuses on specific use cases and scenarios. The serious game development domain fails to consider any transfer of domain knowledge, which means this labor-intensive process must be repeated for each serious game. Objective: We proposed a software engineering framework that aims to streamline the multidisciplinary design process of personalized serious games in health care and facilitates the reuse of domain knowledge and personalization algorithms. By focusing on the transfer of knowledge to new serious games by reusing components and personalization algorithms, the comparison and evaluation of different personalization strategies can be simplified and expedited. In doing so, the first steps are taken in advancing the state of the art of knowledge regarding personalized serious games in health care. Methods: The proposed framework aimed to answer 3 questions that need to be asked when designing personalized serious games: Why is the game personalized? What parameters can be used for personalization? and How is the personalization achieved? The 3 involved stakeholders, namely, the domain expert, the (game) developer, and the software engineer, were each assigned a question and then assigned responsibilities regarding the design of the personalized serious game. The (game) developer was responsible for all the game-related components; the domain expert was in charge of the modeling of the domain knowledge using simple or complex concepts (eg, ontologies); and the software engineer managed the personalization algorithms or models integrated into the system. The framework acted as an intermediate step between game conceptualization and implementation; it was illustrated by developing and evaluating a proof of concept. Results: The proof of concept, a serious game for shoulder rehabilitation, was evaluated using simulations of heart rate and game scores to assess how personalization was achieved and whether the framework responded as expected. The simulations indicated the value of both real-time and offline personalization. The proof of concept illustrated how the interaction between different components worked and how the framework was used to simplify the design process. Conclusions: The proposed framework for personalized serious games in health care identifies the responsibilities of the involved stakeholders in the design process, using 3 key questions for personalization. The framework focuses on the transferability of knowledge and reusability of personalization algorithms to simplify the design process of personalized serious games. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on problematic objectification and feminization of France undermines an otherwise compelling argument about language being central to relationship. It mentions need to go beyond French and the nation-state of France as the two-dimensional object of study and embodies the contradiction of Frenchness being seen as incompatible with Jewishness. It also mentions regional, religious, and linguistic identities, hinting at a forward-looking nostalgia.