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• 01GQ24SSH74CS13TRWN16QE6M7 abstract "Background: Testing an ever-increasing number of CRISPR components is challenging when developing new genome engineering tools. Plant biotechnology has few high-throughput options to perform iterative design-build-test-learn cycles of gene-editing reagents. To bridge this gap, we develop ITER (Iterative Testing of Editing Reagents) based on 96-well arrayed protoplast transfections and high-content imaging. Results: We validate ITER in wheat and maize protoplasts using Cas9 cytosine and adenine base editors (ABEs), allowing one optimization cycle - from design to results - within 3 weeks. Given that previous LbCas12a-ABEs have low or no activity in plants, we use ITER to develop an optimized LbCas12a-ABE. We show that sequential improvement of five components - NLS, crRNA, LbCas12a, adenine deaminase, and linker - leads to a remarkable increase in activity from almost undetectable levels to 40% on an extrachromosomal GFP reporter. We confirm the activity of LbCas12a-ABE at endogenous targets in protoplasts and obtain base-edited plants in up to 55% of stable wheat transformants and the edits are transmitted to T1 progeny. We leverage these improvements to develop a highly mutagenic LbCas12a nuclease and a LbCas12a-CBE demonstrating that the optimizations can be broadly applied to the Cas12a toolbox. Conclusion: Our data show that ITER is a sensitive, versatile, and high-throughput platform that can be harnessed to accelerate the development of genome editing technologies in plants. We use ITER to create an efficient Cas12a-ABE by iteratively testing a large panel of vector components. ITER will likely be useful to create and optimize genome editing reagents in a wide range of plant species.".
• 01GQ2587HZZRXPPCK0T6RPXF4Q abstract "Responding to compliments online: the case of Airbnb Online Experiences. The present article investigates responses to compliments posted on Airbnb Online Experiences, a recently launched platform. The study contributes to and expands the current body of research on compliment practices online. While previous research predominantly focused on responses to compliments on social-oriented platforms (such as Facebook or Instagram), in this contribution the focus is on a business-driven environment (Airbnb). Departing from the framework elaborated by Maiz-Arevalo (2013) on Facebook data, I examine the distribution of different compliment response strategies in an Airbnb corpus. Further, a qualitative discussion of the results will be provided, elaborating on some actual examples extracted from the corpus. The findings highlight some specific trends in the compliment response strategies adopted by Airbnb hosts. Hosts overwhelmingly opted for accepting strategies, while evading or rejecting strategies were avoided. Moreover, a recurrent use of appreciation and returning compliments strategies was observed. Remarkably, agreeing and self-enhancement strategies (self-promotion) were also attested in the dataset, which are usually absent on other platforms (such as Facebook). Finally, in their responses, hosts also included emoticons, encouraging utterances and personalized invitation to future contact, promoting closeness and a certain degree of informality with their interlocutors.".
• 01GQ25G3V4FR7YCM69FY4V5A29 abstract "Adaptor protein (AP) complexes are evolutionarily conserved vesicle transport regulators that recruit coat proteins, membrane cargoes and coated vesicle accessory proteins. As in plants endocytic and post-Golgi trafficking intersect at the trans-Golgi network, unique mechanisms for sorting cargoes of overlapping vesicular routes are anticipated. The plant AP complexes are part of the sorting machinery, but despite some functional information, their cargoes, accessory proteins and regulation remain largely unknown. Here, by means of various proteomics approaches, we generated the overall interactome of the five AP and the TPLATE complexes in Arabidopsis thaliana. The interactome converged on a number of hub proteins, including the thus far unknown adaptin binding-like protein, designated P34. P34 interacted with the clathrin-associated AP complexes, controlled their stability and, subsequently, influenced clathrin-mediated endocytosis and various post-Golgi trafficking routes. Altogether, the AP interactome network offers substantial resources for further discoveries of unknown endomembrane trafficking regulators in plant cells.".
• 01GQ261P26ZGGW0FMHDD246TB0 abstract "Introduction: Previous surveys of male sex workers (MSW) in sub-Saharan Africa have not fully documented the HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) rates and vulnerabilities by age category. Methods: The bio-behavioral survey of MSW in Nairobi, Kenya, utilized respondent-driven sampling to recruit MSW. Structured interviews captured MSW's behavioral aspects, and biological tests for HIV and other STIs. Results: Analysis of the two age categories, 18-24 years (younger MSW) and 25 years and above (older MSW), shows that of all participants, a significantly higher proportion of younger MSW (59.6% crude, 69.6% RDS-adjusted) were recruited compared to older MSW (40.4% crude, 30.4% RDS-adjusted, P < 0.001). Young male sex workers were more likely to report multiple sexual partnerships in the last 12 months and had multiple receptive anal intercourses (RAI) acts in the last 30 days than older MSW: 0-2 RAI acts (20.6 vs. 8.6%, P = 0.0300), 3-5 RAI acts (26.3 vs. 11.5, P < 0.001), and >5 RAI acts (26.3 vs. 11.5%, P < 0.01). Furthermore, younger MSW were significantly more likely to have 3-5 insertive anal intercourse (IAI) with a regular male sex partner in the last 30 days than older MSW (24.3 vs. 8.0%, P < 0.01). Younger MSW were also more likely to report other STIs [28.5% (95% CI: 19.1-40.4%)] than older MSW [19.0% (95% CI: 7.7-29.2%)]. However, older MSWs were more likely to be infected with HIV than younger MSW (32.3 vs. 9.9 %, P < 0.01). Conclusions: Owing to the high risk sexual behaviors, HIV and STIs risks among younger and older MSW, intensified and targeted efforts are needed on risk reduction campaigns and expanded access to services.".
• 01GQ27EE4Y5RB3ZEZM9K1RD2S5 abstract "Long-acting and permanent contraceptive methods (LAPM) are effective and economical methods for delaying or limiting pregnancies, however they are not widely used. The Kenya government is promoting the use of modern methods of family planning through various mechanisms. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with the use of LAPM among married women of reproductive age in targeted rural sub-counties of Kilifi and Kisii counties, Kenya. Baseline and end line Data from a program implemented on improving Access to Quality Care and Extending and Strengthening Health Systems (AQCESS) in Kilifi and Kisii counties of Kenya were used. Multi-stage sampling was used to sample 1117 and 1873 women for the end line and baseline surveys, respectively. Descriptive analysis was used to explore the respondents’ characteristics and use of LAPM on a self-weighted samples. Univariable and multivariable binary logistic regression models using svy command were used to assess factors associated with the use of LAPM. A total of 762 and 531 women for the baseline and end line survey, respectively were included in this study. The prevalence of use of LAPM for baseline and end line survey were 21.5% (95% CI: 18.7–24.6%) and 23.2% (95% CI: 19.6%-27.0%), p-value = 0.485. The use of LAPM in Kisii and Kilifi counties was higher than the national average in both surveys. The multivariable analysis for the end line survey showed having 3–5 number of children ever born (aOR = 2.04; 95% CI: 1.24–3.36) and future fertility preference to have another child (aOR = 0.50; 95% CI: 0.26–0.96) were significantly associated with odds of LAPM use. The baseline showed that having at least secondary education (aOR = 1.93; 95%CI: 1.04–3.60), joint decision making about woman’s own health (aOR = 2.08; 95%CI: 1.36–3.17), and intention to have another child in future (aOR = 0.59; 95%CI: 0.40–0.89) were significantly associated with the use of LAPM. Future fertility preference to have another child was significantly associated with the use of LAPM in the two surveys. Continued health promotion and targeted media campaigns on the use of LAPM in rural areas with low socioeconomic status is needed in order to improve utilization of these methods. Programs involving men in decision making on partner’s health including family planning in the rural areas should be encouraged.".
• 01GQ283S9KJ9VRWVEENAXP2HBA abstract "Background: Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in Kenya, with an estimated 3,200 deaths in 2020. Kenya has implemented cervical cancer interventions for more than a decade. We describe the evolution of the cervical cancer programme over the last 20 years and assess its performance. Methods: We searched the Ministry of Health's archives and website (2000-2021) for screening policy documents and assessed them using seven items: situational analysis, objectives, key result areas, implementation framework, resource considerations, monitoring and evaluation and definition of roles/responsibilities. In addition, a trend analysis was performed targeting screening and disease burden indicators in the period 2011-2020, using data from Kenya Health Information System and the Global Burden of Disease database. Findings: Policy guidance improved over time, but the implementation of screening was poor. Before 2016, a clear leadership and accountability structure was lacking; improvement occurred after the establishment of the National Cancer Control Program. The main health system gaps included the lack of a trained healthcare workforce and poor data collection. Annual screening coverage varied between <1% and 36% of the target population for the year for HIV-negative women and between <1% and 7% for HIV-positive women, from 2011 to 2020. Test positivity for visual inspection with acetic acid was below 5% for most of the period. Compliance to treatment of precancerous lesions ranged between 22% and 39%. The detection rate of cervical cancer ranged between 0.5% and 1.0%. The burden of invasive cervical cancer did not change significantly: world age-standardised incidence and mortality rates of 26.3-27.4 and 16.6-18.0/100,000 women-years, respectively; disability-adjusted life years of 579-624/100,000 life years. Conclusion: The Kenyan cervical cancer control programme suffered from inadequate health system strengthening and poor quality implementation. Evidence-based policy implementation and sustained health system strengthening are necessary to move towards cervical cancer elimination as a public health problem.".
• 01GQ28TWYADK837H4NWESXCAJ0 abstract "Background: PRECISE-DYAD is an observational cohort study of mother-child dyads running in urban and rural communities in The Gambia and Kenya. The cohort is being followed for two years and includes uncomplicated pregnancies and those that suffered pregnancy hypertension, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and/or stillbirth. Methods: The PRECISE-DYAD study will follow up ~4200 women and their children recruited into the original PRECISE study. The study will add to the detailed pregnancy information and samples in PRECISE, collecting additional biological samples and clinical information on both the maternal and child health. Women will be asked about both their and their child’s health, their diets as well as undertaking a basic cardiology assessment. Using a case-control approach, some mothers will be asked about their mental health, their experiences of care during labour in the healthcare facility. In a sub-group, data on financial expenditure during antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal periods will also be collected. Child development will be assessed using a range of tools, including neurodevelopment assessments, and evaluating their home environment and quality of life. In the event developmental milestones are not met, additional assessments to assess vision and their risk of autism spectrum disorders will be conducted. Finally, a personal environmental exposure model for the full cohort will be created based on air and water quality data, combined with geographical, demographic, and behavioural variables. Conclusions: The PRECISE-DYAD study will provide a greater epidemiological and mechanistic understanding of health and disease pathways in two sub-Saharan African countries, following healthy and complicated pregnancies. We are seeking additional funding to maintain this cohort and to gain an understanding of the effects of pregnancies outcome on longer-term health trajectories in mothers and their children.".
• 01GQ29H07NCNF64K483EAEDZSY abstract "Objectives: To understand the public's perceptions around rapid SARS-CoV-2 antigen self-testing in Kenya, including the drivers of acceptability, willingness to pay, and adherence to hygiene and prevention recommendations following a positive self-test. Methods: A household-based, cross-sectional survey, using a 35-item questionnaire, was conducted in Mombasa and Taita-Taveta counties, Kenya, during August 2021. Individuals aged ≥18 years were enrolled using a stratified sampling approach. Results: There were 419 participants (mean age 35.7 years). A minority (10.5%) had ever tested for SARS-CoV-2. If SARS-CoV-2 self-testing were available, 39.9% and 41.5% would be likely and very likely, respectively, to use it. If unavailable free-of-charge, 63.01% would pay for it. Multivariate analyses suggested that people in rural areas (Coefficient 0.30, 95%CI: 0.11-0.48, p = 0.002), aged 36-55 (Coefficient 0.21, 95%CI: 0.03-0.40, p = 0.023), and employed full time (Coefficient 0.32, 95%CI: 0.06-0.58, p = 0.016) would have more odds to adhere to recommended hygiene and prevention actions. Conclusion: SARS-CoV-2 self-testing was considered acceptable. Availability of self-testing could expand access to COVID-19 testing in Kenya, particularly among rural communities who have limited access to testing, and among mildly symptomatic individuals.".
• 01GQ29TNBA4YZ4W26TEBMJ8J6K abstract "Background: Studies of the impact of health care workers' strikes tend to look at facility-level activity rather than populations, with evidence from low and middle-income countries relatively sparse. This study explored the effect of national strikes on maternal and child health. It looked at the impact on health system activity in both public and non-public sectors (e.g. private, faith-based), on health promotion investments like immunisation, and on disease detection like post-partum haemorrhage (PPH). A 100 day doctors' strike started in December 2016, a 150 day nurses strike from June 2017 and then the clinical officers for 21 days that September. Methods: Time series descriptive analysis of attendance data from the Kenyan Health Management Information System (public, non-public sector facilities). The setting was Kilifi, a coastal county in Kenya with a population of about 1.5 million. Results: Along the care pathway from antenatal, postnatal and out-patient child health clinics, activity levels dropped markedly in the public sector with only partial compensatory increases in non-public sector activity. The number of fully immunised children fell during the nurses strike as did women seen with PPH during all strikes. These health care strikes caused significant adverse health impacts at the time and potentially inter-generationally as exemplified by the fall in antenatal haematinics supplementation and syphilis testing. Some post-strike ''catch-up" activity occurred, however this may have been too late in some instances. Conclusions: Policy-makers at national and county level need to ensure population health is protected at times of strikes and ideally resolve disputes without such action. Not to do so risks major negative effects on maternal and child health. Increased use of the non-public health sector could be done by the authorities in mitigation should strikes occur again.".
• 01GQ2A8R5V3V5BAWT69SG42049 abstract "Background: Pre-eclampsia is a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity that involves pregnancy-related stressors on the maternal cardiovascular and metabolic systems. As nutrition is important to support optimal development of the placenta and for the developing fetus, maternal diets may play a role in preventing pre-eclampsia. The purpose of this scoping review is to map the maternal nutritional deficiencies and imbalances associated with pre-eclampsia incidence and discuss evidence consistency and linkages with current understandings of the etiology of pre-eclampsia. Methods: A narrative scoping review was conducted to provide a descriptive account of available research, summarize research findings and identify gaps in the evidence base. Relevant observational studies and reviews of observational studies were identified in an iterative two-stage process first involving electronic database searches then more sensitive searches as familiarity with the literature increased. Results were considered in terms of their consistency of evidence, effect sizes and biological plausibility. Results: The review found evidence for associations between nutritional inadequacies and a greater risk of pre-eclampsia. These associations were most likely mediated through oxidative stress, inflammation, maternal endothelial dysfunction and blood pressure in the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia. Maternal nutritional risk factors for pre-eclampsia incidence with the strongest consistency, effect and biological plausibility include vitamin C and its potential relationship with iron status, vitamin D (both on its own and combined with calcium and magnesium), and healthy dietary patterns featuring high consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, seafood and monounsaturated vegetable oils. Foods high in added sugar, such as sugary drinks, were associated with increased risk of pre-eclampsia incidence. Conclusion: A growing body of literature highlights the involvement of maternal dietary factors in the development of pre-eclampsia. Our review findings support the need for further investigation into potential interactions between dietary factors and consideration of nutritional homeostasis and healthy dietary patterns. Further research is recommended to explore gestational age, potential non-linear relationships, dietary diversity and social, cultural contexts of food and meals.".
• 01GQ2D3FB2B43QXB6J78PTPYXM abstract "The article challenges the common view of the Yugoslav space as an area producing rather than receiving refugees by providing an overview of the main historiographic works dealing with refugees within and into the territories of the former Yugoslavia. It identifies two main conceptual foci that revolve around the understanding of refugees as either “national” or “international.” In the case of “national refugees,” scholars have frequently stressed the existence of supposedly pre-existing ethnic ties between the refugees and the territories where they found refuge, but the scholarship also explores the entanglement of diverse population movements—both compulsory and voluntary—in the multinational areas that experienced a process of unmixing of peoples since the second half of the nineteenth century. On the contrary, historiography on “international refugees” displays a more prominent interest in the management of refugees by both state and non-state actors, including their spatial distribution. Furthermore, these scholars have addressed the relationship between the refugee flows from abroad and the country’s geopolitical constellation, demonstrating how foreign policy shapes the reception of refugees, but also how refugee influx reframes international allegiances. While the so-called “Balkan route” has put the region in the international spotlight as an important avenue of transit, an overview of historical thinking related to refugees into and within the former Yugoslavia provides tools to reflect upon the way people on the move have been and are conceptualized.".
• 01GQ2DBP2E89N13VDRGKM95X5C abstract "Objective: This sequential, prospective meta-analysis sought to identify risk factors among pregnant and postpartum women with COVID-19 for adverse outcomes related to disease severity, maternal morbidities, neonatal mortality and morbidity, and adverse birth outcomes. Data sources: We prospectively invited study investigators to join the sequential, prospective meta-analysis via professional research networks beginning in March 2020. Study eligibility criteria: Eligible studies included those recruiting at least 25 consecutive cases of COVID-19 in pregnancy within a defined catchment area. Methods: We included individual patient data from 21 participating studies. Data quality was assessed, and harmonized variables for risk factors and outcomes were constructed. Duplicate cases were removed. Pooled estimates for the absolute and relative risk of adverse outcomes comparing those with and without each risk factor were generated using a 2-stage meta-analysis. Results: We collected data from 33 countries and territories, including 21,977 cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy or postpartum. We found that women with comorbidities (preexisting diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular disease) vs those without were at higher risk for COVID-19 severity and adverse pregnancy outcomes (fetal death, preterm birth, low birthweight). Participants with COVID-19 and HIV were 1.74 times (95% confidence interval, 1.12-2.71) more likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit. Pregnant women who were underweight before pregnancy were at higher risk of intensive care unit admission (relative risk, 5.53; 95% confidence interval, 2.27-13.44), ventilation (relative risk, 9.36; 95% confidence interval, 3.87-22.63), and pregnancy-related death (relative risk, 14.10; 95% confidence interval, 2.83-70.36). Prepregnancy obesity was also a risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes including intensive care unit admission (relative risk, 1.81; 95% confidence interval, 1.26-2.60), ventilation (relative risk, 2.05; 95% confidence interval, 1.20-3.51), any critical care (relative risk, 1.89; 95% confidence interval, 1.28-2.77), and pneumonia (relative risk, 1.66; 95% confidence interval, 1.18-2.33). Anemic pregnant women with COVID-19 also had increased risk of intensive care unit admission (relative risk, 1.63; 95% confidence interval, 1.25-2.11) and death (relative risk, 2.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.15-4.81). Conclusion: We found that pregnant women with comorbidities including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease were at increased risk for severe COVID-19-related outcomes, maternal morbidities, and adverse birth outcomes. We also identified several less commonly known risk factors, including HIV infection, prepregnancy underweight, and anemia. Although pregnant women are already considered a high-risk population, special priority for prevention and treatment should be given to pregnant women with these additional risk factors.".
• 01GQ2E2RC1C88ABEWKA5ZWP6QY abstract "The World Health Organization (WHO) global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer (CxCa) could result in >62 million lives saved by 2120 if strategy targets are reached and maintained: 90% of adolescent girls receiving prophylactic human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, 70% of women receiving twice-lifetime cervical cancer screening, and 90% of cervical pre-cancer lesions and invasive CxCa treated. However, the cost and complexity of CxCa screening and treatment approaches has hampered scale-up, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and new approaches are needed. Therapeutic HPV vaccines (TxV), which could clear persistent high-risk HPV infection and/or cause regression of pre-cancerous lesions, are in early clinical development and might offer one such approach. During October 2021 to March 2022, WHO, in collaboration with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, convened a series of global expert consultations to lay the groundwork for understanding the potential value of TxV in the context of current CxCa prevention efforts and for defining WHO preferred product characteristics (PPCs) for TxV. WHO PPCs describe preferences for vaccine attributes that would help optimize vaccine value and use in meeting the global public health need. This paper reports on the main discussion points and findings from the expert consultations. Experts identified several ways in which TxV might address challenges in current CxCa prevention programmes, but emphasized that the potential value of TxV will depend on their degree of efficacy and how quickly they can be developed and implemented relative to ongoing scale-up of existing interventions. Consultation participants also discussed potential use-cases for TxV, important PPC considerations (e.g., vaccine indications, target populations, and delivery strategies), and critical modelling needs for predicting TxV impact and cost-effectiveness.".
• 01GQ2EE9JBV6PA1E2F9KPW227S abstract "Background: Public health emergencies can disrupt the provision of and access to essential health-care services, exacerbating health crises. We aimed to assess the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on essential health-care services in Kenya. Methods: Using county-level data routinely collected from the health information system from health facilities across the country, we used a robust mixed-effect model to examine changes in 17 indicators of essential health services across four periods: the pre-pandemic period (from January, 2018 to February, 2020), two pandemic periods (from March to November 2020, and February to October, 2021), and the period during the COVID-19-associated health-care workers' strike (from December, 2020 to January, 2021). Findings: In the pre-pandemic period, we observed a positive trend for multiple indicators. The onset of the pandemic was associated with statistically significant decreases in multiple indicators, including outpatient visits (28·7%; 95% CI 16·0-43·5%), cervical cancer screening (49·8%; 20·6-57·9%), number of HIV tests conducted (45·3%; 23·9-63·0%), patients tested for malaria (31·9%; 16·7-46·7%), number of notified tuberculosis cases (26·6%; 14·7-45·1%), hypertension cases (10·4%; 6·0-39·4%), vitamin A supplements (8·7%; 7·9-10·5%), and three doses of the diphtheria, tetanus toxoid, and pertussis vaccine administered (0·9%; 0·5-1·3%). Pneumonia cases reduced by 50·6% (31·3-67·3%), diarrhoea by 39·7% (24·8-62·7%), and children attending welfare clinics by 39·6% (23·5-47·1%). Cases of sexual violence increased by 8·0% (4·3-25·0%). Skilled deliveries, antenatal care, people with HIV infection newly started on antiretroviral therapy, confirmed cases of malaria, and diabetes cases detected were not significantly affected negatively. Although most of the health indicators began to recover during the pandemic, the health-care workers' strike resulted in nearly all indicators falling to numbers lower than those observed at the onset or during the pre-strike pandemic period. Interpretation: The COVID-19 pandemic and the associated health-care workers' strike in Kenya have been associated with a substantial disruption of essential health services, with the use of outpatient visits, screening and diagnostic services, and child immunisation adversely affected. Efforts to maintain the provision of these essential health services during a health-care crisis should target the susceptible services to prevent the exacerbation of associated disease burdens during such health crises. Funding: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.".
• 01GQ2ERQNH5QNSAJED4ZN74W33 abstract "Background: Maternal psychological stress has been linked to preterm birth. However, the differential contribution of psychological stress versus stress hormones is not clear. Studies focus primarily on perceived stress and cortisol, with few assessing its inter-convertible hormone cortisone. Furthermore, little is known about the potential moderating roles of obstetric risk and fetal sex in the relationship between maternal stress and gestational length. This gap in knowledge is particularly evident for rural women who typically experience chronic multiple stressors during pregnancy. We explored the relationship of hormonal and psychological stress to gestational length and the effects of obstetric risks and fetal sex on this relationship among Kenyan pregnant women. Methods: The sample included 130 women recruited between 22 to 28 weeks gestation. They completed a clinical and sociodemographic questionnaire together with the Perceived Stress Scale and provided a hair sample for cortisol and cortisone assay. Women underwent an ultrasound to assess weeks of gestation. At delivery, their pregnancy-related health problems were identified using information extracted from medical records to compile each woman's number of pregnancy risks on the Obstetric Medical Risk Index (OMRI). Results: Perceived stress and hair cortisol were not significant predictors of gestational length. However, a greater number of obstetric risks on the OMRI was associated with shorter gestational length. This effect was further explained by the interaction between obstetric risk and hair cortisone (B = 0.709, p = 0.02). Hair cortisone levels of mothers who had a shorter gestation were significantly higher in mothers with 2 or more risks on the OMRI but not among mothers with only one or no risks (t = 2.39, p = 0.02). Fetal sex had no relationship to gestational length and also had no moderating effect on the relationship between any stress-related metric and gestational length. Conclusion: Cortisone levels may increase in anticipation of shorter gestation as a compensatory response to increased obstetric risk. Elevated cortisone may be a more sensitive marker of risk for early delivery than cortisol or psychological stress, with salience for both the male and female fetus.".
• 01GQ2F21XJP4VSBCRQGCAAB8B8 abstract "Our aim was to investigate the inclusion of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) topics in medical curricula and the perceived need for, feasibility of, and barriers to teaching SRHR. We distributed a survey with questions on SRHR content, and factors regulating SRHR content, to medical universities worldwide using chain referral. Associations between high SRHR content and independent variables were analyzed using unconditional linear regression or χ2 test. Text data were analyzed by thematic analysis. We collected data from 219 respondents, 143 universities and 54 countries. Clinical SRHR topics such as safe pregnancy and childbirth (95.7%) and contraceptive methods (97.2%) were more frequently reported as taught compared with complex SRHR topics such as sexual violence (63.8%), unsafe abortion (65.7%), and the vulnerability of LGBTQIA persons (23.2%). High SRHR content was associated with high-income level (P = 0.003) and low abortion restriction (P = 0.042) but varied within settings. Most respondents described teaching SRHR as essential to the health of society. Complexity was cited as a barrier, as were cultural taboos, lack of stakeholder recognition, and dependency on fees and ranking.".
• 01GQ2FFYNDJ2V7K3BHKPQG1P3P abstract "Tartary buckwheat is rich in flavonoids, which not only play an important role in the plant-environment interaction, but are also beneficial to human health. Rutin is a therapeutic flavonol which is massively accumulated in Tartary buckwheat. It has been demonstrated that transcription factors control rutin biosynthesis. However, the transcriptional regulatory network of rutin is not fully clear. In this study, through transcriptome and target metabolomics, we validated the role of FtMYB102 and FtbHLH4 TFs at the different developmental stages of Tartary buckwheat. The elevated accumulation of rutin in the sprout appears to be closely associated with the expression of FtMYB102 and FtbHLH4. Yeast two-hybrid, transient luciferase activity and coimmunoprecipitation demonstrated that FtMYB102 and FtbHLH4 can interact and form a transcriptional complex. Moreover, yeast one-hybrid showed that both FtMYB102 and FtbHLH4 directly bind to the promoter of chalcone isomerase (CHI), and they can coordinately induce CHI expression as shown by transient luciferase activity assay. Finally, we transferred FtMYB102 and FtbHLH4 into the hairy roots of Tartary buckwheat and found that they both can promote the accumulation of rutin. Our results indicate that FtMYB102 and FtbHLH4 can form a transcriptional complex by inducing CHI expression to coordinately promote the accumulation of rutin.".
• 01GQ2FNN350E72CH4AK0EG4XBP abstract "In deeply digitalised societies, ‘sexual reputations’ are seen to be most ‘threatened’. Digital technologies such as smartphone cameras and social media platforms can capture and distribute moments that damage people’s sexual reputations and statuses. In this chapter, we explore how young people’s mediated sexual intimacies are increasingly visible, mainly because of the emergence of popular visual social media (e.g., Instagram and Snapchat). Relying on visual research materials that young people between 13 and 20 years old produced during ethnographic research, we are particularly concerned with how increased visibility to unanticipated audiences has made young people more aware of the importance of a good digital reputation and has initiated more careful negotiations of sexual morality to protect their digital reputations. Our key finding is that managing a reputation is an intensive moral negotiation that is defined by various cultural discourses (e.g., gender, ethnicity, religiosity, sexuality). Moreover, we conclude that digital reputation can cause reputational harm to those young people that are not conforming to the sexual norms of their peer groups, social and family ties, and wider culture and society.".
• 01GQ2K6A2TPK0Z4Q6ZZHG7GCV3 abstract "We explore the idea that some learning phenomena can be thought of as instances of relational behavior-more specifically, arbitrarily applicable relational responding (AARR). After explaining the nature of AARR, we discuss what it means to say that learning phenomena such as evaluative and fear conditioning are instances of AARR. We then list several implications of this perspective for empirical and theoretical research on learning, as well as for how learning phenomena relate to other psychological phenomena in human and nonhuman animals.".
• 01GQ2QJM98PQBZQ369ETQK14A5 abstract "Our behavior towards a stimulus can change as a result of observing a regularity between that stimulus and someone else's emotional reaction, a type of social learning referred to as observational conditioning. We explore the idea that causal attributions (i.e., the extent to which the observer attributes the model's reaction to the stimulus) play an important role in observational conditioning effects. In three experiments (total N = 665), participants watched videos in which one cookie was followed by a positive reaction and another cookie was followed by a negative reaction, after which their own evaluations of each cookie were measured via self-reports and an implicit association test (IAT). Critically, we manipulated whether the observed reactions were high or low in terms of distinctiveness (Experiments 1a and 1b) or consensus and consistency (Experiment 2). These three variables are known to influence stimulus attributions and were therefore predicted to moderate observational conditioning effects. In line with our predictions, high distinctiveness (Experiments 1a and 1b) and high consensus and consistency (Experiment 2) both resulted in larger observational conditioning effects, with one exception: high distinctiveness did not lead to larger changes in automatic evaluations (i.e., IAT effects). Taken together, our findings suggest that causal attributions play an important role in observational conditioning. We outline more elaborate analyses of the attributional processes that are involved and suggest potential future directions for research on observational conditioning.".
• 01GQ2RJD33W0PCXJG5DY5BDFZ7 abstract " 'Overhaald' is een bundel met nieuwe kortverhalen en gedichten in een eenvoudige taal geschreven. Met dit literatuurboek willen we jongeren vanaf 11 jaar die het Nederlands - nog - niet helemaal onder de knie hebben, overhalen om te lezen. De bundel is gemaakt in samenwerking met het cultureel genootschap Orde van den Prince, Kunstencentrum Voo?uit, de Hogeschool Odisee en Arteveldehogeschool. Bij elk verhaal en gedicht vind je ook oefeningen, woordenschattips en wist-je-datjes. De aanzet voor dit boek werd bekroond met de Klasseprijs 2019.".
• 01GQ2SSXPWRTPK76HEQGKG3R92 abstract "Graph embedding approaches have been attracting increasing attention in recent years mainly due to their universal applicability. They convert network data into a vector space in which the graph structural information and properties are maximumly preserved. Most existing approaches, however, ignore the rich information about interactions between nodes, i.e., edge attribute or edge type. Moreover, the learned embeddings suffer from a lack of explainability, and cannot be used to study the effects of typed structures in edge-attributed networks. In this paper, we introduce a framework to embed edge type information in graphlets and generate a Typed-Edge Graphlets Degree Vector (TyE-GDV). Additionally, we extend two combinatorial approaches, i.e., the colored graphlets and heterogeneous graphlets approaches to edge-attributed networks. Through applying the proposed method to a case study of chronic pain patients, we find that not only the network structure of a patient could indicate his/her perceived pain grade, but also certain social ties, such as those with friends, colleagues, and healthcare professionals, are more crucial in understanding the impact of chronic pain. Further, we demonstrate that in a node classification task, the edge-type encoded graphlets approaches outperform the traditional graphlet degree vector approach by a significant margin, and that TyE-GDV could achieve a competitive performance of the combinatorial approaches while being far more efficient in space requirements.".
• 01GQ4FNVTA713119BCE4CQEBQM abstract "EDM event attendees are a high-risk population for substance use and associated adverse effects. The aim of this study was to examine substance use at EDM events, focusing on associations between attendance motives and substance use. Sociodemographic characteristics, event specifics, past-year use, and attendance motives were assessed through an online survey. Participants were 1345 Belgian EDM event attendees (69.44% male, Mage = 22.63, SDage = 4.03). Ecstasy/MDMA/Molly (52.28%), other synthetic hallucinogens (53.68%), ketamine (42.13%), amphetamines (40.45%), and alkyl nitrites (poppers) (32.76%) were most frequently used at festivals/outdoor parties/raves. In nightclubs, cocaine (32.29%) was shown to be prevalent as well, while other synthetic hallucinogens (15.79%) were less often consumed. At events with a more private character, cannabis (68.88%) and magic mushrooms (66.44%) were most frequently used. Aside from alcohol (47.76%), substance use in pubs/bars was negligible. Overall enjoyment was demonstrated to be the key attendance motive, which was succeeded by those relating to music and socialization. A wide range of motives proved to be more important to users (e.g., dance, exploration, escapism, excitement, alcohol, drugs) than non-users, while some were associated with the use of particular substances. The prevalence of substance use was shown to be dependent on the specifics of the setting. Moreover, the idea of a three-dimensional classification of the most principal motives for music event attendance was supported. Finally, correlations were estimated between attendance motives and substance use as well as specific substances. Results could enable more tailored approaches in prevention and harm reduction efforts as well as event management strategies.".
• 01GQ4MQS12GMEG4A002H080F0D abstract "This paper undertakes a regression discontinuity (RD) framework with multiple cutoffs unlike typical RD setting where researchers normalize the score variable and pool all the observations. This paper explores this heterogeneity in the effect of Islamic mayor on female secular high schooling in Turkey using the multiple cutoff RD framework developed in Cattaneo et al. (2016). The presence of many parties in the 1994 municipality election in Turkey means that vote share of the strongest opponent party can vary substantially leading to different cutoffs. Meyersson (2014) finds that Islamic mayors of 1994 promoted female high schooling using a normalized and pooled RD framework, which averages the effect across all the different cutoffs. We extend his work by segregating the effect of Islamic mayor across different opponent party's vote shares. Our results suggest that the positive effect on female secular high school attainment was more pronounced in municipalities where the strongest opponent party was secular than where the opponent was conservative. This heterogeneity can be attributed to a policy change in 1999, which restricted religious high school graduates from entering universities.".
• 01GQ4MQS171SZ2A95GQAD2TRMA abstract "We quantify gains from introducing limited financing through non-defaultable debt into a model of equilibrium sovereign risk. For an initial sovereign spread of 4.2%, introducing the possibility of issuing non-defaultable debt for up to 10% of aggregate income reduces immediately the spread to 1.5%, and implies a welfare gain equivalent to a permanent consumption increase of 0.8%. Nevertheless, the spread reduction achieved by the introduction of non-defaultable debt is short lived. Our findings shed light on different aspects of proposals to introduce common euro-area sovereign bonds that could be virtually non-defaultable. (C) 2017 International Monetary Fund. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.".
• 01GQ4PPERD8TCNHY5HTGD703FA abstract "Racialized people who are labeled Not Criminally Responsible (NCR) are relatively overrepresented in forensic mental healthcare. In this respect, it is essential to provide culturally sensitive treatment in forensic mental healthcare in an attempt to reduce ethnic disparities. Both general mental healthcare and prison settings are actively exploring and producing empirical knowledge on culturally sensitive treatment, but it remains unclear what evidence is available for forensic mental healthcare delivery. To answer this question, a scoping review is conducted. Three databases (i.e. Medline, Web of Science and APA PsycArticles) were systematically searched for any qualitative, quantitative or theoretical paper about practices or treatment focused on racialized people labeled as NCR in forensic mental healthcare. In total, 551 articles were retrieved. After a detailed selection procedure by two independent researchers, only a small number of eligible articles (<10) were retained. Research on cultural practices in forensic mental healthcare seems to be predominantly based in Western countries and conducted in the last decade. Thematically, the research efforts are targeted toward culturally sensitive assessment tools, therapeutic interventions and programs, and forensic care organization. This study demonstrates how this research field is still in its early stages. There is an undeniable lack of evidence considering culturally sensitive therapeutic frameworks or approaches in forensic mental healthcare. In conclusion, it is imperative that this topic firmly emerges on the research agenda.".
• 01GQ4PZYZ4ZEY4134GJ5CEX40T abstract "Accurate assessment of treatment response and residual disease is indispensable for the evaluation of cancer treatment efficacy. However, performing tissue biopsies for longitudinal follow-up poses a major challenge in the management of solid tumours like neuroblastoma. In the present study, we evaluated whether circulating miRNAs are suitable to monitor neuroblastoma tumour burden and whether treatment-induced changes of miRNA abundance in the tumour are detectable in serum. We performed small RNA sequencing on longitudinally collected serum samples from mice carrying orthotopic neuroblastoma xenografts that were exposed to treatment with idasanutlin or temsirolimus. We identified 57 serum miRNAs to be differentially expressed upon xenograft tumour manifestation, out of which 21 were also found specifically expressed in the serum of human high-risk neuroblastoma patients. The murine serum levels of these 57 miRNAs correlated with tumour tissue expression and tumour volume, suggesting potential utility for monitoring tumour burden. In addition, we describe serum miRNAs that dynamically respond to p53 activation following treatment of engrafted mice with idasanutlin. We identified idasanutlin-induced serum miRNA expression changes upon one day and 11 days of treatment. By limiting to miRNAs with a tumour-related induction, we put forward hsa-miR-34a-5p as a potential pharmacodynamic biomarker of p53 activation in serum.".
• 01GQ4RWFGTMSM30AEVK66ZR4AH abstract "Knowledge about sustainability problems as it is typically taught does not per se lead to action for tackling these problems. Environmental and sustainability education researchers have argued for teaching more action-oriented knowledge. This article addresses the ‘didactical work’ required for teachers to do so, both in preparing and implementing lessons. The authors employ transactional didactic theory and the analytical method Practical Epistemology Analysis to open-up the black box of teaching and learning action-oriented knowledge on sustainability issues. The methodology, that has a strong focus on classroom observations, allows to empirically investigate the influence of teachers’ actions on students’ learning. It is here applied to a case study in higher education where it is engineering teachers’ explicit ambition for their students to explore and develop a wider area of knowledge about sustainability issues. Our findings shed light on what this requires in terms of the ‘scripting’, ‘staging’, and ‘performance’ of lessons.".
• 01GQ4SH8B38JZXF9V31GH4N24V abstract "The mother tongue (L1) has shown to influence the second language (L2) at the level of phonology, the writing system, and semantics. One other parameter that may be considered in language transfer is morphology which refers to the smallest units bearing meaning in a language, morphemes. The evidence supporting the idea of cross-language transfer in inflectional studies (or morphosyntactic) is numerous and led to this elaboration of the morphological congruency effect (Jiang et al. 2011). Considering these results and the models presented on cross-language effect, we explored how derivational morphology could be transferred from the L1 to L2 in French-English late bilinguals. The principal aim was to examine how L1 morphology could transfer to L2. We used different methodologies to explore the phenomenon: Morphological awareness, self-paced reading, and word learning tasks. Each study was designed to look at how the status of the suffix would influence the different processes of L2 morphology. The distinction was dichotomic: complex words studied were either composed with common suffixes of L1 and L2 (e.g., -able) or a L2-unique suffixes (e.g., -less). In the first study, the cross-language effect was evaluated in three morphological awareness stages: lexical semantic knowledge, syntactic knowledge, and distributive knowledge. In the second study, the effect of L1 suffixes were examined in sentence reading using a self-paced reading paradigm. Finally, the third study established a learning paradigm to see how L1 morphology would affect L2 learning. The second aim of the research was to look how L2 morphology would evolve with the increase of English proficiency and especially of the status of the suffix (common vs. L2-unique) would interplay with proficiency. The expectation was that common L1 and L2 suffixes would facilitate L2 learning, processing and morphological awareness, but the results did not confirm this hypothesis. In the first study, late French-English bilinguals showed that as their proficiency increased, their 18 performances in morphological awareness tasks increased as well. The same patterns were evidence in reading and learning with faster reading times in self-paced reading task and more words recalled in the learning task as proficiency increased. However the fact that suffixes were common between L1 and L2 did not make a strong difference as opposed to L2-unique suffixes. In all tasks, results were similar for both conditions. Further analysis even showed that the inconsistency in the mappings in common suffixes hindered the learning of new words. This however, was not the case in reading and morphological awareness. In conclusion the results of this dissertation brought further insight on the transfer of common morphological features between L1 and L2 in French-English late bilinguals. More specifically it suggested that common suffixes would be as facilitative as L2-unique suffixes. Also, the results of the learning paradigm seemed to suggest that inconsitent mappings between L1 and L2 (e.g. glissement/slippage as opposed to amazement/étonnement) would even hinder the learning of new words. This latest distinctions of the suffixes bring further perspectives and invite future studies to take into account more than a dichotomic distinction of the suffixes in L2.".
• 01GQ4W5GZ8259RA5EAVHQZHEMZ abstract "During childhood, muscle growth is stimulated by a gradual increase in bone length and body mass, as well as by other factors, such as physical activity, nutrition, metabolic, hormonal, and genetic factors. Muscle characteristics, such as muscle volume, anatomical cross-sectional area, and muscle belly length, need to continuously adapt to meet the daily functional demands. Pediatric neurological and neuromuscular disorders, like cerebral palsy and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, are characterized by impaired muscle growth, which requires treatment and close follow-up. Nowadays ultrasonography is a commonly used technique to evaluate muscle morphology in both pediatric pathologies and typically developing children, as it is a quick, easy applicable, and painless method. However, large normative datasets including different muscles and a large age range are lacking, making it challenging to monitor muscle over time and estimate the level of pathology. Moreover, in order to compare individuals with different body sizes as a result of age differences or pathology, muscle morphology is often normalized to body size. Yet, the usefulness and practicality of different normalization techniques are still unknown, and clear recommendations for normalization are lacking. In this cross-sectional cohort study, muscle morphology of four lower limb muscles (medial gastrocnemius, tibialis anterior, the distal compartment of the semitendinosus, rectus femoris) was assessed by 3D-freehand ultrasound in 118 typically developing children (mean age 10.35 +/- 4.49 years) between 3 and 18 years of age. The development of muscle morphology was studied over the full age range, as well as separately for the pre-pubertal (3-10 years) and pubertal (11-18 years) cohorts. The assumptions of a simple linear regression were checked. If these assumptions were fulfilled, the cross-sectional growth curves were described by a simple linear regression equation. Additional ANCOVA analyses were performed to evaluate muscle- or gender-specific differences in muscle development. Furthermore, different scaling methods, to normalize muscle morphology parameters, were explored. The most appropriate scaling method was selected based on the smallest slope of the morphology parameter with respect to age, with a non-significant correlation coefficient. Additionally, correlation coefficients were compared by a Steiger's Z-test to identify the most efficient scaling technique. The current results revealed that it is valid to describe muscle volume (with exception of the rectus femoris muscle) and muscle belly length alterations over age by a simple linear regression equation till the age of 11 years. Normalizing muscle morphology data by allometric scaling was found to be most useful for comparing muscle volumes of different pediatric populations. For muscle lengths, normalization can be achieved by either allometric and ratio scaling. This study provides a unique normative database of four lower limb muscles in typically developing children between the age of 3 and 18 years. These data can be used as a reference database for pediatric populations and may also serve as a reference frame to better understand both physiological and pathological muscle development.".
• 01GQ4X4N8E31DHS7Q98NC07SE5 abstract "Borstkanker is de meest voorkomende kanker bij vrouwen wereldwijd. België heeft een van de hoogste incidenties, waarbij momenteel 1 op 9 vrouwen in haar leven de diagnose zal krijgen. De behandeling van borstkanker is vaak multimodaal en wordt besproken door een multidisciplinaire groep van specialisten. In deze thesis leggen we ons toe op radiotherapie na borstsparende heelkunde. Radiotherapie gebruikt hoogenergetische stralen van geïoniseerde deeltjes om kankercellen te doden. Zowel kankercellen als gezonde cellen kunnen beschadigd worden door bestraling. Zodoende is het doel van radiotherapie ook om zo min mogelijk gezonde cellen te bestralen. Voor sommige organen, zoals het hart en de longen, kunnen late neveneffecten zelfs tot sterfte lijden en dus de voordelen van radiotherapie tenietdoen. De patiëntpositie is een van de vele parameters die de bestralingsbehandeling kan beïnvloeden. Daarenboven vergt deze relatief weinig technologische en financiële investeringen. De meeste radiotherapiecentra behandelen hun patiënten in de ruglighouding. Desondanks bestaan er verschillende aanwijzingen die pleiten in het voordeel van de buiklighouding. De buiklighouding kent onder meer een betere dosisverdeling in de borst, spaart vitale organen beter en veroorzaakt minder acute toxiciteit. Ondanks deze voordelen is de buiklighouding in weinig ziekenhuizen de standaardpositie geworden. Dit komt doordat deze positie zich moeilijker exact laat herhalen, hetgeen finaal tot langere tijdsloten in de bestralingsruimte leidt. Daarnaast is het comfort van de patiënt vaak minder groot dan in de ruglighouding. Tot slot laten de meeste buikligtoestellen geen bestraling van de regionale lymfeklieren toe, hetgeen een respectabel deel van de patiëntenpopulatie uitsluit. Klinisch onderzoek aan UZ Gent en UGent richtte sinds 2008 zich op het aanwenden van de voordelen van de buiklighouding en het vermijden van diens nadelen. Dit leidde tot een co-creatietraject tussen de UGent-onderzoeksgroepen Radiotherapie en design.nexus. Het resultaat was een nieuwe buikligpositie en bijbehorend positioneringsplatform, de Prone Crawl Breast Couch (PCBC). Een karakteristieke eigenschap hiervan is de blootstelling van de schouder en het bovenlichaam, hetgeen de bestralingstoegang tot de borst en regionale lymfeklieren (inclusief de mammaria interna-keten) vergroot. Andere nadelen van de klassieke buiklighouding, zoals verlaagd patiëntcomfort en lage set-upprecisie, werden ook aangepakt en bewezen doorheen verschillende studies. Verschillende PCBC-versies werden ontwikkeld en verschillende studies rond de crawl-buiklighouding werden gepubliceerd in de periode voor het huidige doctoraatstraject. Niettegenstaande bleven nieuwe ontwikkelingen nodig en bleven er verschillende onderzoeksopportuniteiten over. Het overkoepelende doel van dit doctoraatstraject was om de toepasbaarheid van de crawl-buiklighouding te vergroten, zodat deze therapie beschikbaar kan worden voor een grotere patiëntenpopulatie. Bij de nieuw PCBC-versies focusten we vooral op de praktische hanteerbaarheid en een hogere gebruikersacceptatie. Bij nieuwe dosimetrische studies focusten we op het verbreden van het medische toepassingsgebied voor de crawl-buiklighouding. Drie PCBC-versies werden (verder) ontwikkeld tijdens dit doctoraat, met name de BC3, BC3-MRI en de BC4. Voor de praktische ontwikkeling hiervan pasten we verschillende ontwerpmethodes toe, waaronder Research through Design, co-design en systeemontwerp. De nadruk lag op de iteratieve ontwikkeling van prototypes in samenspraak met een breed spectrum aan stakeholders, met vele interdisciplinaire interacties tot gevolg. De BC3 werd verder ontwikkeld zodat 16 toestellen ingezet konden worden in de eerste multicentrische studie. Deze studie zou ons naast een grotere steekproefomvang ook voorzien van feedback van externe gebruikers. Een MRI-compatibele subversie van de BC3 werd ontwikkeld voor onderzoeksdoeleinden. Deze BC3-MRI werd vervolgens gebruikt door collega-onderzoekers om a) specifieke contourvoorschriften op te stellen voor de crawl-buiklighouding en b) het ontwikkelen van een nieuw protocol voor verlengde ademhalingstops in functie van een verlaagde bestralingsdosis op het hart. Het BC3-toestel had een opvolger nodig aangezien het ontwerp geen verdere opschaling toeliet en verschillende functionaliteiten miste. Daarop ontwikkelden we de BC4, het laatste onderzoekstoestel vooraleer een commercialisatie kan plaatsvinden. De BC4 maakt een visuele feedback mogelijk voor diepe ademhalingstops en voorziet een verbeterde gebruikerservaring ten opzichte van diens voorgangers. Alle functionaliteiten van BC3 bleven bewaard, doch startten we van een leeg blad voor de materialisatie ervan. De ontwikkeling van een monocoque-structuur in koolstofvezelcomposiet, als voorname ondersteuningsoppervlak voor het lichaam, bleek de grootste uitdaging. We ontwikkelden een geschikte composietstructuur in verschillende stappen. Als eerste voerden we een experiment met 9 proefpersonen uit rond de verdeling van het lichaamsgewicht. Hierdoor kregen we een zicht op de krachten die op het ondersteunende vlak inwerken. Vervolgens deden we computersimulaties om het vervormingsgedrag onder belasting te analyseren en de invloed van parameters zoals de opbouw te onderzoeken. Samen met onze composietfabrikant ontwikkelden we nadien een nieuwe monocoque in koolstofvezelcomposiet. Tot slot onderwierpen we het geassembleerde toestel ook aan de realiteit door belastingstesten uit te voeren. Hierbij brachten we stapsgewijs gewichten toe als puntlast en onderzochten we het vervormingsgedrag. Voor het medisch onderzoeksgedeelte van dit doctoraat voerden we twee voornamelijk dosimetrische studies uit. In de eerste studie kwantificeerden we de dosimetrische effecten van de combinatie tussen diepe ademhalingstops en de crawl-buiklighouding, voor zowel foton- als protonplannen. Beeldvormingstudies rond de klassieke buiklighouding toonden reeds aan dat een diepe ademhalingstop het hart doet wegtrekken van de doelstructuren, hetgeen leidt tot lagere hartdoses. Daarom leek het interessant om te onderzoeken of deze voordelen zich ook voordoen in de crawl-buiklighouding. Voorts wisten we dat protonbestraling de dosis op vitale organen nog verder kan verlagen dan de traditionele fotonbestraling. Wel zou de ademhalingsbeweging van de ademhalingstop dit voordeel deels teniet kunnen doen. Daar de crawl-buiklighouding een kleinere ademhalingsbeweging kent dan de ruglighouding, vermoedden we dat de combinatie van protonbestraling en diepe ademhalingstops een groter voordeel zou kunnen hebben in de (crawl-)buiklighouding. Deze studie focuste op patiënten die bestraald worden op zowel de borst als de regionale lymfeklieren, omdat deze groep aan hogere hart- en longdoses wordt blootgesteld. Dit was de eerste studie die de effecten van de diepe ademhalingstop op de crawl-buiklighouding onderzocht. Als resultaat zagen we dat de ademhalingstop een significante verlaging van de hartdosis gaf in de crawl-buiklighouding, zowel voor foton- als protonbestraling. Bij de fotonbestraling zagen we dat de combinatie van de crawl-buiklighouding en diepe ademhalingstops voor substantieel lagere hart- en longdoses zorgde dan bij een gewone ademhaling. Deze studie draagt bij tot het bewijs dat de combinatie van buiklig en diepe ademhalingstops een van de meest voordelige manieren is voor borst-en-lymfeklierpatiënten te bestralen met fotonen. Voor de tweede medische studie vergeleken we de dosimetrische uitkomsten van drie patiëntposities (ruglig, traditionele buiklig en crawl-buiklig) voor vier verschillende bestralingstechnieken. Deze studie focuste op patiënten die enkel op de borst bestraald worden en was de eerste studie waarbij de crawl-buiklighouding in deze context bekeken werd. De crawl-buiklighouding werd destijds namelijk specifiek ontworpen voor patiënten die ook bestraald worden op de regionale lymfeklieren. Het was ook de eerste studie waarbij de traditionele buiklig en de crawl-buiklig zowel dosimetrisch als anatomisch vergeleken werden. Deze studie kan in het bijzonder relevant zijn voor centra met een beperkte technische uitrusting, daar een omslag in patiëntpositie een gebrek aan geavanceerde bestralingstechnieken zou kunnen opvangen. In onze resultaten werden de gekende reducties van longdoses bevestigd voor beide buiklighoudingen, waarbij het voordeel het grootst was in de crawl-buiklighouding. Voor het hart vonden we geen verschillen tussen de klassieke buiklighouding en de ruglighouding, terwijl er voor linkszijdige patiënten een bescheiden hartdosisreductie was in de crawl-buiklighouding. De dosisverschillen tussen de klassieke buiklig en de crawl-buiklig werden verklaard door een grotere afstand tussen de doelvolumes en de vitale organen. Samengevat stellen we dat beide buikligposities -op dosimetrisch vlak- een waardig alternatief vormen voor de ruglighouding bij vrouwen die enkel op de borst bestraald worden. Het grootste dosisvoordeel vonden we voor de longen, terwijl de verschillen voor de hartdosis eerder beperkt waren. Dit laatste bevestigt de rol van diepe ademhalingstops voor hartdosisreductie in de verschillende houdingen. De PCBC wordt momenteel gebruikt in drie Belgische ziekenhuizen in de eerste multicentrische studie rond de crawl-buiklighouding. Alsook werd onlangs een eerste opvolgstudie rond acute toxiciteit gepubliceerd. Met Radion-D werd een universitaire spin-off opgericht die instaat voor de ontwikkeling en valorisatie van een commerciële PCBC-versie. Deze stap is nodig om uit de academische muren te breken en deze therapie breed toegankelijk te maken in vele radiotherapiecentra.".
• 01GQ4X4N8E31DHS7Q98NC07SE5 abstract "Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer for women worldwide. Belgium has one of the highest incidence rates, with 1 out of 9 females that are currently expected to get diagnosed in their lifetime. The treatment of breast cancer is mostly multimodal and decided upon by a multidisciplinary team. In this thesis we focus on radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery. Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams of ionised particles to kill cancer cells. Both healthy and cancerous cells get damaged through irradiation, so the goal of radiotherapy should also be to destroy as few healthy cells as possible. For some organs, like the heart and lungs, late side effects may even lead to mortality and thus counteract the benefits of radiotherapy. The patient position is one of many parameters to influence the radiation treatment and requires relatively little technology and investments. Most radiotherapy centres treat their patients in the supine position, although there are well described advantages for treatment in the prone position. These include better dose distribution to the target structures, better sparing of vital organs, and less acute toxicity. Despite its advantages, prone positioning has never been able to counter the dominance of supine positioning. It has been suggested that prone positioning is more difficult to reproduce, making it less accurate and finally leads to longer treatment slots. The patient’s comfort is also not always guaranteed. Finally, the traditional prone position does usually not allow for targeting regional lymph nodes, which excludes a respectable part of the patient population. Research at Ghent University Hospital was aimed at exploiting the benefits of prone positioning while avoiding its disadvantages. This evolved into a co-creation trajectory between Ghent University’s Radiation Oncology Research Group and design.nexus Research Group. The result was a novel patient position and an according positioning device, the Prone Crawl Breast Couch (PCBC). A distinguishing feature hereby is the exposure of the patient’s shoulder and upper torso, which improves beam access to the breast, regional lymph nodes and the internal mammary chain. Other disadvantages of traditional prone positioning such as patient discomfort and low setup accuracy, were also tackled and proven through studies. Different PCBC versions were developed and several studies on prone crawl positioning were published prior to this PhD-trajectory. Nonetheless, novel developments were necessary and various research opportunities remained. Altogether, the purpose of this PhD-trajectory was to broaden the applicability of prone crawl positioning, in order to make prone crawl radiotherapy accessible for a larger patient population. New device versions focussed on the practical employability and improved user acceptance, while new dosimetrical studies focussed on broadening the medical scope of prone crawl positioning. Three PCBC versions were (further) developed during this PhD: BC3, BC3-MRI and BC4. For the practical development we applied different approaches including Research through Design, co-design, and systemic design. An emphasis was placed on the iterative development of physical prototypes together with a variety of stakeholders, with many interdisciplinary interactions. The BC3 was further adapted to enable the deployment of 16 devices in the first multicentric study, which delivered us with external user feedback and larger sample sizes. An MRI-compatible subversion of the BC3 was developed for research purposes. The BC3-MRI was subsequently used by fellow researchers in a) the development of specific delineation guidelines for prone crawl positioning, and b) the investigation of a novel protocol for prolonged deep-inspiration breath holds. The BC3 needed a successor as it could not be scaled up any further and lacked some functionalities. The latest version, BC4, is the last research device before commercialisation and was developed for further upscaling the research. BC4 enables a visual feedback for deep-inspiration breath hold and brings improved user experience compared to its predecessors. All functionalities of BC3 were maintained, yet we started from a blank page for the materialisation. The development of a carbon monocoque structure for the main body support surface proved the most challenging. We developed a suitable composite via different steps. First, we performed a weight distribution experiment with volunteers to find out what forces the body support surface endures. Next, we did a Computer Aided Engineering analysis to investigate the deformation behaviour under load and the influence of parameters such as the composite lay-up. Together with our composite manufacturer we then developed the new monocoque structure in carbon composite. Finally, the assembled device was structurally tested by gradually loading weights and investigating its deformation behaviour. For the medical research we performed two mainly dosimetrical studies. In the first study we quantified the dosimetrical effects of combining deep-inspiration breath hold (DIBH) with prone crawl positioning, for both photon and proton plans. Imaging studies in the traditional prone position showed that DIBH retracts the internal mammary chain away from the heart, which causes lower heart doses. It was relevant to investigate whether these benefits alco occur with prone crawl positioning. Furthermore, proton therapy is able to decrease doses to organs-at-risk beyond what is possible with photon techniques. Nonetheless, the breathing motion of DIBH could potentially diminish this advantage. As the prone crawl position reduces the breathing motion of important areas, the benefit of applying proton therapy with DIBH could be larger in prone crawl than in supine position. This study focussed on patients requiring breast and locoregional therapy, as this patient group risks higher doses to heart and lungs than breast-only patients. This was the first study to evaluate the effect of DIBH on prone crawl positioning. DIBH in prone crawl position significantly decreased doses to heart, for both proton and photon radiotherapy. For photon treatment, combining prone crawl and DIBH allows for achieving substantially lower heart and lung doses than prone crawl with SB. This study adds to the evidence that prone-DIBH might become the most promising way for breast cancer patients to undergo photon radiotherapy. For the second medical study we compared the dosimetrical outcomes of three patient positions (supine, traditional prone, and prone crawl) for four irradiation techniques in breast-only radiotherapy. This was the first study to compare traditional prone and prone crawl positioning dosimetrically and anatomically. It was also the first study to investigate prone crawl positioning in breast-only radiotherapy, as the PCBC was originally developed for breast and locoregional therapy. This study is of particular interest to radiotherapy centres with limited technical resources, as a switch in patient setup may counter the lack of advanced irradiation techniques. The important lung-sparing effect was confirmed for both traditional prone and prone crawl positioning, and was largest for prone crawl. For the heart, no differences were found between traditional prone and supine, whilst the left-sided prone crawl position showed cardiac advantages. Compared to traditional prone, advantages for prone crawl positioning can be explained by a larger distance between the target volume and the organs-at-risk. Altogether, both prone positions proved to be valid alternatives to the supine position in breast-only irradiation, with largest advantages for the lung structures. For the heart, differences were small which establishes the role of deep-inspiration breath holding in the different patient positions. The PCBC is currently being used in three Belgian hospitals for the first multicentric trial on prone crawl positioning. Also, the first follow-up study on acute toxicity was recently published. A university spin-off , Radion-D, was established to develop and distribute a commercial version of the PCBC. This is a necessary step to get the device beyond academic research into broad adoption by radiotherapy centres.".
• 01GQ4Z18KJV9C3PASH69FD56GP abstract "We provide records of the rarely detected ant-associated spider Mastigusa arietina (Thorell, 1871) in northwest Belgium and discuss how to locate and capture this spider. We show that this myrmecophilous spider is much more common than currently presumed but it is often missed in common spider surveys due to its obligate association with ant nests. We also summarise and illustrate the recently gained insights into its ecology, behaviour, and interactions with its host and other ant associates.".
• 01GQ50H1A3YWBM9MSQ51Q2Y53B abstract "Predicting the impact of input process variables on chemical processes is key to assess their performance of the latter. Models explaining this impact through a mechanistic approach are rarely readily available, complex in nature and/or require long development time. With increased automation in industries and the availability of high-throughput experimental data, data-driven machine learning models are gaining popularity due to their simplicity and reduced computational effort. In this work, multi-output Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis data generated via mechanistic Single-Event MicroKinetic (SEMK) model is analyzed with different machine learning models (ML) such as Lasso, K Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Support Vector Regression (SVR), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) regression. Temperature and pressure are identified as the dominant input variables. Among the considered ML models, ANN emerged as the superior performing one with respect to benchmark SEMK results. In addition, the validity of neural network predictions is verified using the so-called Shap-value interpretation technique. The relative impact of input variables obtained using Shap values, on conversion follow the order of temperature (1x) > pressure (0.22x) > space-time (0.1x) > syngas ratio (0.03x). Temperature (1x) and pressure (0.26x) remain the dominant input variables for light olefin selectivity, but that of space-time (0.03x) and syngas ratio (0.03x) becomes comparable. This work provides a reference method for the identification of suitable ML models for multi-output prediction in chemical processes.".
• 01GQ54JRTY5FGAAAE9GKJMGKR7 abstract "We investigate the impact of macroprudential policy on the risk and return profile of euro zone banks between 2008 and 2018, conditioning on the stance of monetary policy. Using local projections, we find that a tightening in macroprudential policy increases financial stability by curbing credit growth and increasing the resilience of the banks. With respect to the policy mix, we show that tight macroprudential and monetary policies reinforce each other. But even when monetary policy is accommodating, macroprudential policy is found to be effective in deterring excessive bank risk-taking. However, we also document adverse consequences for bank franchise values.".
• 01GQ551K5SZNXA7KZF6Z0D0EB1 abstract "Purpose - This study aims to problematize current calls for a "public health" approach to governing illicit drugs and the people who use them. Design/methodology/approach - It draws on a range of historical sources to describe how drugs became a problem for governments, in order to critically diagnose the present and investigate the origins of current perspectives on drugs. Findings - It is argued that there are currently two authoritative drug discourses. The first discourse is the dominant one and is eradicative, with blame and punishment as its primary responses. The second discourse is subauthoritative, but growing in importance, and is sanitorial, with care and cure as its primary responses. Originality/value - While these two discourses have often been thought of as distinct, this historical exploration demonstrates that the eradicative and sanitorial discourses are both based on similar principles.".
• 01GQ5599JPVBK721JAHQG7X0C0 abstract "Drug detectives are the guardians of the drug prohibition policy and the question is raised to what extent, and on what basis, drug detectives feel their power is morally correct. Ethnographic fieldwork, which included 40 epistemic-confrontational interviews, was carried out over 10 months in two cities in Belgium among drug detectives operating at street level and in local drug investigation units. The work of Michel Foucault inspired the theoretical and analytical framework of the research. The study finds that drug detectives derive their self-legitimacy primarily from subjectivation in the eradicative drug discourse and from endogenous elements such as being good at your ‘craft’ and seeking validation of this from colleagues. It is argued that an endogenous construction of self-legitimacy co-produces and strengthens some (dysfunctional) core characteristics of police culture. Furthermore, drug detectives’ underlying motivation is rarely fuelled by a belief in the effectiveness of their actions in reducing drug use or selling, but by the conviction that they have to take action because ‘otherwise things would get out of hand’. Building on these results, several societal and political implications are offered.".
• 01GQ56XRGS4A9KYM7V15NE5NCA abstract "When asked to decide if an ungrammatical sequence of words is grammatically correct or not readers find it more difficult to do so (longer response times (RTs) and more errors) if the ungrammatical sequence is created by transposing two words from a correct sentence (e.g., the white was cat big) compared with a set of matched ungrammatical sequences for which transposing any two words could not produce a correct sentence (e.g., the white was cat slowly). Here, we provide a further exploration of transposed-word effects while imposing serial reading by using rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) in Experiments 1 (respond at the end of the sequence) and 2 (respond as soon as possible—which could be during the sequence). Crucially, in Experiment 3 we compared performance under serial RSVP conditions with parallel presentation of the same stimuli for the same total duration and with the same group of participants. We found robust transposed-word effects in the RSVP conditions tested in all experiments, but only in error rates and not in RTs. This contrasts with the effects found in both errors and RTs in our prior work using parallel presentation, as well as the parallel presentation conditions tested in Experiment 3. We provide a tentative account of why, under conditions that impose a serial word-by-word reading strategy, transposed-word effects are only seen in error rates and not in RTs.".
• 01GQ56YKH17NB68GXBJYWR484M abstract "Objective: Adolescence is a critical period for the onset of unhealthy eating habits. One important contributing factor is poor inhibitory control (IC), a cognitive skill that enables behavior regulation. IC training appears successful in countering unhealthy eating in adults, but evidence in adolescents is scarce. In addition, the mechanism of change from IC training remains unclear. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess changes in IC during a single session of IC training in adolescents. The effectiveness of the training was assessed by comparing the experimental group to a matched control group.Method: A community sample of 57 adolescents between 10 and 18 years was recruited (M-age = 16.61, SDage = 2.52, 73.7% girls, M-adj.BMI = 105.17, SDadj.BMI = 18.81). IC was assessed before, during, and after the training using a GO/NO-GO task. Indices of IC were commission errors (CE; incorrectly responding on a no-go trial) and reaction time (RT) on go trials.. Results: CE rates among adolescents who received the IC training were the highest during the training and decreased significantly after the training. However, there were no differences in CE before compared to after the training. No differences were found in RT before, during or after the training. In addition, compared to the control group, the experimental group showed no significant differences in either CE or RT before, during or after the training.Discussion: To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to assess changes in IC after an IC training in a community sample of adolescents. Results of this study further elucidate the complex role of IC in adoles-cents' unhealthy eating habits. Future studies should seek to corroborate these findings in a larger sample.".
• 01GQ5A6K4E63PDCQN0EZW03DV5 abstract "Objective Autoantibody detection is an essential step in pSS diagnosis. However, the value of separate anti-Ro52, anti-Ro60 and anti-SSB/La detection in pSS diagnosis and phenotyping has not been extensively studied. This study aimed to explore disease characteristics of anti-SSA/Ro positive, suspected and definite pSS patients, in relation to serological profiles based on anti- Ro52, anti-Ro60 and anti-SSB/La reactivity. Methods Of 187 anti-SSA/Ro positive patients included in the Belgian Sjogren's Syndrome Transition Trial (BeSSTT), 155 were considered definite pSS patients, due to fulfilment of the 2016 ACR-EULAR classification criteria, and 32 suspected, due to reactivity against SSA/Ro without presence of other criteria. None of the patients met any of the ACR-EULAR exclusion criteria for pSS. Patients were grouped based on the presence of anti-Ro52, anti-Ro60 and anti-SSB/La antibodies. Results Mono-reactivity against Ro60 or Ro52, double reactivity against Ro52/Ro60 and triple reactivity against Ro52/Ro60 and SSB was detected in respectively 30, 23, 70 and 60 patients. Mono-anti-Ro60 positive patients showed the least pSS features. Mono-anti-Ro52 positive patients reported a significantly higher dryness burden (p=0.016) and tended toward more salivary gland ultrasound (SGUS) abnormalities (p=0.054) than mono-anti-Ro60 positives. Double positive patients showed similar characteristics as mono-anti-Ro52 positive patients, whereas triple positive patients showed lowest unstimulated salivary flow rates (p=0.002) and Schirmer tests (p=0.002), highest ocular staining scores (p<0.001), most positive labial salivary gland biopsies (p= 0.039), most laboratory abnormalities compatible with B-cell hyperactivity and highest SGUS scores (p<0.001) compared to other patient groups. Conclusion These data indicate that separate detection of anti-Ro52, anti-Ro60 and anti-SSB/La reactivity is not only relevant towards pSS diagnosis, but markedly aids in patient stratification and evaluation of disease burden. Our results suggest a stepwise model in which mono-reactivity against Ro60 displayed the least objective and subjective glandular pSS features, whereas glandular abnormalities and signs of B-cell hyperactivity were most present in patients showing triple reactivity against Ro60, Ro52 and SSB/La.".
• 01GQ5B12FB4X0KA49T147F9QN1 abstract "Objectives: Salivary gland lymphocytic infiltrates are a hallmark of primary SS (pSS), but traditional biopsy techniques hold several disadvantages. Ultrasound-guided core needle (US-guided CN) parotid gland biopsy is minimally invasive and reliable for diagnosis of lymphoma in pSS. This proof-of-concept study aimed to explore this technique in the diagnostic work-up of pSS and is the first to address its value in a consecutive cohort independently of the presence of salivary gland swelling. Methods: Combined incisional and US-guided CN parotid biopsy was performed in 20 patients with suspected or confirmed pSS from the Belgian Sjogren's Syndrome Transition Trial (BeSSTT). Surface area and presence of a focus score (FS) of at least one, germinal centres and lymphoepithelial lesions were recorded. Results: Salivary gland tissue was interpretable in 19 patients. Fourteen patients had >= 4 mm(2) salivary gland tissue by both techniques, in four US-guided CN biopsies salivary gland tissue was <4 mm(2). Paired biopsies >= 4 mm(2) displayed a concordance of 90% for FS >= 1. Presence of lymphoepithelial lesions and germinal centres showed absolute concordance. Of four US-guided CN biopsies <4 mm(2), three interpretable incisional biopsies were available, 2/3 with perfect concordance. When including biopsies of <4 mm(2) salivary gland tissue, presence of FS >= 1 or germinal centres gave a sensitivity of 70% in incisional and of 69% in US-guided CN biopsy. Conclusions: US-guided CN biopsy of the parotid gland is at least equivalent to incisional biopsy of the parotid gland in the diagnostic work-up of pSS.".
• 01GQ5BYHV6V9V4KEQR92N7GKMV abstract "In the last decade, many randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with biological DMARDs (bDMARDs) have been performed in patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS). Unfortunately, no bDMARD has yet been approved for systemic treatment of pSS. The heterogeneity of disease manifestations raises two essential questions: 1) which outcome measure is valid, reliable and responsive to demonstrate treatment efficacy and should be used as primary study endpoint? and 2) which pSS patients should be included in clinical trials? Both the selection of the primary study endpoint and the selection of patients are crucial and evolving issues in clinical trial design in pSS. This article summarises the history and comments the selection of primary study endpoints including the novel development of composite endpoints. Furthermore, this article gives an overview of inclusion criteria used for phase II and III trials, and illustrates by data-analysis based on two prospective observational cohorts that each additional selection criterion will (largely) decrease the number of eligible patients in daily clinical practice.".
• 01GQ5V2M4M0EY1F9948PTDJHBA abstract "We employ micromagnetic simulations to model the effect of pore-type microstructural defects on the magnetic small-angle neutron scattering cross section and the related pair-distance distribution function of spherical magnetic nanoparticles. Our expression for the magnetic energy takes into account the isotropic exchange interaction, the magnetocrystalline anisotropy, the dipolar interaction, and an externally applied magnetic field. The signatures of the defects and the role of the dipolar energy are highlighted and the effect of a particle-size distribution is studied. The results serve as a guideline to the experimentalist.".
• 01GQ6J7BMDZWDFQWRECB967382 abstract "The minimum weight of the code generated by the incidence matrix of points versus lines in a projective plane has been known for over 50 years. Surprisingly, finding the minimum weight of the dual code of projective planes of non-prime order is still an open problem, even in the Desarguesian case. In this paper, we focus on the case of projective planes of order p(2), where p is prime, and we link the existence of small weight code words in the dual code to the existence of embedded subplanes and antipodal planes. In the Desarguesian case, we can exclude such code words by showing a more general result that no antipodal plane of order at least 3 can be embedded in a Desarguesian projective plane. Furthermore, we use combinatorial arguments to rule out the existence of code words in the dual code of points and lines of an arbitrary projective plane of order p(2), p prime, of weight at most 2p(2) - 2p + 4 using more than two symbols. In particular, this leads to the result that the dual code of the Desarguesian projective plane PG(2, p(2)), p >= 5, has minimum weight at least 2p(2) - 2p + 5.".
• 01GQ6JCSC1KC4AQ3WVA0VMMXWM abstract "Knowledge of the factors influencing foraging efficiency in top predators can provide insights into the effects of environmental variability on their populations. Seabirds are important marine predators foraging in a highly temporally and spatially variable environment. While numerous studies have focussed on search time and its effects on foraging energetics in seabirds, relatively little is known about the factors influencing capture success and prey profitability in these predators. In the present study, animal-borne cameras were used to investigate the chase durations, capture success, handling durations and profitability of prey consumed by Australasian gannets (Morus serrator) (n=95) from two breeding colonies in south-eastern Australia exposed to different oceanographic conditions. Capture success was generally lower when individuals foraged alone. However, foraging in multi-species groups and in high prey densities increased chase time, while larger prey elicited longer handling times. While prey type influenced profitability, high prey density and foraging in multi-species groups was found to lower prey profitability due to increased time expenditure. While previous studies have found group foraging reduces search time, the increased profitability explains why some animals may favour solitary foraging. Therefore, future studies should combine search time and the currently found factors.".
• 01GQ6JHYNKHVJBQBPF3MK0JDSY abstract "Feathers play an important role in many aspects of avian ecology, including sexual selection, thermoregulation and flight. However, several external stressors can negatively impact plumage condition. Birds preen their feathers to maintain feather integrity throughout the year. For seabirds, preening is especially important to ensure waterproofing of the plumage. However, due to the difficulty of observing seabirds at sea, little is known of the time and energy expended in preening and how this may impact other activities in these species. In the present study, bird-borne video and tri-axial accelerometer data loggers were used to investigate preening in Australasian Gannets (Morus serrator) from two colonies in south-eastern Australia. Gannets spend a substantial proportion of their time at sea preening (25.5 +/- 1.7%). No significant differences in preening activity were observed between the 3 years of study or between colonies. Average Vectorial Dynamic Body Acceleration (VeDBA, a proxy for energy expenditure) was significantly higher during preening (0.34 +/- 0.02 g) than resting (0.25 +/- 0.02 g), but less than for flying or foraging. These results highlight the importance of preening in terms of time and energy in this species. Furthermore, a positive relationship between the number of dives and at-sea preening suggests a negative impact of diving on plumage integrity and, thus, a potential additional time and energy constraint during periods of reduced food availability.".
• 01GQ6YNV0GH5DT6WY690WZQABH abstract "Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is an idiopathic chronic immune-mediated cholestatic liver disease characterized by fibro-inflammatory bile duct strictures, progressive hepatobiliary fibrosis, and gut–liver axis disruption. The pathophysiology of PSC remains insufficiently characterized, which hampers the development of effective therapies. Hepatic macrophages (MFs) are implicated in PSC pathogenesis, but the exact role of Kupffer cells (KCs) is unclear. Using the latest markers to discriminate resident KCs (ResKCs) from their monocyte-derived counterparts (MoKCs), and two models for intrahepatic and extrahepatic cholestasis, respectively, this study shows that CLEC4F+TIM4+ ResKCs are depleted after chronic cholestatic liver injury, whereas infiltrating CLEC4F+TIM4− MoKCs are already enriched during the acute phase. Transcriptional profiling of hepatic MF subsets during early cholestatic injury indicates that ResKCs are indeed activated and that MoKCs express even higher levels of pro-inflammatory and proliferative markers compared with ResKCs. Conditional depletion of KCs, by using Clec4fDTR transgenic mice, before and during early cholestasis induction had no effect, however, on the composition of the hepatic myeloid cell pool following injury progression and did not affect disease outcomes. Taken together, these results provide new insights on the heterogeneity of the MF pool during experimental PSC and evidence that depletion of resident and activated KCs during sclerosing cholangitis does not affect disease outcome in mice.".
• 01GQ6ZK3DH7SAAZBNVJ579A83E abstract "Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic pathogenic bacterium prioritized by WHO and CDC because of its increasing antibiotic resistance. Heterogeneity among strains represents the hallmark of A. baumannii bacteria. We wondered to what extent extensively used strains, so-called reference strains, reflect the dynamic nature and intrinsic heterogeneity of these bacteria. We analyzed multiple phenotypic traits of 43 nonredundant, modern, and multidrug-resistant, extensively drug-resistant, and pandrug-resistant clinical isolates and broadly used strains of A. baumannii. Comparison of these isolates at the genetic and phenotypic levels confirmed a high degree of heterogeneity. Importantly, we observed that a significant portion of modern clinical isolates strongly differs from several historically established strains in the light of colony morphology, cellular density, capsule production, natural transformability, and in vivo virulence. The significant differences between modern clinical isolates of A. baumannii and established strains could hamper the study of A. baumannii, especially concerning its virulence and resistance mechanisms. Hence, we propose a variable collection of modern clinical isolates that are characterized at the genetic and phenotypic levels, covering a wide range of the phenotypic spectrum, with six different macrocolony type groups, from avirulent to hypervirulent phenotypes, and with naturally noncapsulated to hypermucoid strains, with intermediate phenotypes as well. Strain-specific mechanistic observations remain interesting per se, and established "reference" strains have undoubtedly been shown to be very useful to study basic mechanisms of A. baumannii biology. However, any study based on a specific strain of A. baumannii should be compared to modern and clinically relevant isolates.IMPORTANCE Acinetobacter baumannii is a bacterium prioritized by the CDC and WHO because of its increasing antibiotic resistance, leading to treatment failures. The hallmark of this pathogen is the high heterogeneity observed among isolates, due to a very dynamic genome. In this context, we tested if a subset of broadly used isolates, considered "reference" strains, was reflecting the genetic and phenotypic diversity found among currently circulating clinical isolates. We observed that the so-called reference strains do not cover the whole diversity of the modern clinical isolates. While formerly established strains successfully generated a strong base of knowledge in the A. baumannii field and beyond, our study shows that a rational choice of strain, related to a specific biological question, should be taken into consideration. Any data obtained with historically established strains should also be compared to modern and clinically relevant isolates, especially concerning drug screening, resistance, and virulence contexts.".
• 01GQ6ZK3DVH3MC836VTPMJD7XD abstract "This review presents several aspects of the innovative concept of sebaceous immunobiology, which summarizes the numerous activities of the sebaceous gland including its classical physiological and pathophysiological tasks, namely sebum production and the development of seborrhea and acne. Sebaceous lipids, which represent 90% of the skin surface lipids in adolescents and adults, are markedly involved in the skin barrier function and perifollicular and dermal innate immune processes, leading to inflammatory skin diseases. Innovative experimental techniques using stem cell and sebocyte models have clarified the roles of distinct stem cells in sebaceous gland physiology and sebocyte function control mechanisms. The sebaceous gland represents an integral part of the pilosebaceous unit and its status is connected to hair follicle morphogenesis. Interestingly, professional inflammatory cells contribute to sebocyte differentiation and homeostasis, whereas the regulation of sebaceous gland function by immune cells is antigen-independent. Inflammation is involved in the very earliest differentiation changes of the pilosebaceous unit in acne. Sebocytes behave as potent immune regulators, integrating into the innate immune responses of the skin. Expressing inflammatory mediators, sebocytes also contribute to the polarization of cutaneous T cells towards the Th17 phenotype. In addition, the immune response of the perifollicular infiltrate depends on factors produced by the sebaceous glands, mostly sebaceous lipids. Human sebocytes in vitro express functional pattern recognition receptors, which are likely to interact with bacteria in acne pathogenesis. Sex steroids, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor ligands, neuropeptides, endocannabinoids and a selective apoptotic process contribute to a complex regulation of sebocyte-induced immunological reaction in numerous acquired and congenital skin diseases, including hair diseases and atopic dermatitis.".
• 01GQ6ZK3E402YBB786EYYED7HG abstract "Experimental evolution experiments in which bacterial populations are repeatedly exposed to an antimicrobial treatment, and examination of the genotype and phenotype of the resulting evolved bacteria, can help shed light on mechanisms behind reduced susceptibility. In this review we present an overview of why it is important to include biofilms in experimental evolution, which approaches are available to study experimental evolution in biofilms and what experimental evolution has taught us about tolerance and resistance in biofilms. Finally, we present an emerging consensus view on biofilm antimicrobial susceptibility supported by data obtained during experimental evolution studies.".
• 01GQ6ZK3E9WP45WQH9XB0MRECC abstract "Phytochemicals are promising antibacterials for the development of novel antibiofilm drugs, but their antibiofilm activity in physiologically relevant model systems is poorly characterized. As the host microenvironment can interfere with the activity of the phytochemicals, mimicking the complex environment found in biofilm associated infections is essential to predict the clinical potential of novel phytochemical-based antimicrobials. In the present study, we examined the antibiofilm activity of borneol, citral, and combinations of both as well as their Pickering emulsions against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in an in vivo-like synthetic cystic fibrosis medium (SCFM2) model, an in vitro wound model (consisting of an artificial dermis and blood components at physiological levels), and an in vivo Galleria mellonella model. The Pickering emulsions demonstrated an enhanced biofilm inhibitory activity compared to both citral and the borneol/citral combination, reducing the minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) values up to 2 to 4 times against P. aeruginosa PAO1 and 2 to 8 times against S. aureus P8-AE1 in SCMF2. In addition, citral, the combination borneol/citral, and their Pickering emulsions can completely eliminate the established biofilm of S. aureus P8-AE1. The effectiveness of Pickering emulsions was also demonstrated in the wound model with a reduction of up to 4.8 log units in biofilm formation by S. aureus Mu50. Furthermore, citral and Pickering emulsions exhibited a significant degree of protection against S. aureus infection in the G. mellonella model. The present findings reveal the potential of citral- or borneol/citral-based Pickering emulsions as a type of alternative antibiofilm candidate to control pathogenicity in chronic infection. IMPORTANCE There is clearly an urgent need for novel formulations with antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity, but while there are plenty of studies investigating them using simple in vitro systems, there is a lack of studies in which (combinations of) phytochemicals are evaluated in relevant models that closely resemble the in vivo situation. Here, we examined the antibiofilm activity of borneol, citral, and their combination as well as Pickering emulsions (stabilized by solid particles) of these compounds. Activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in in vitro models mimicking cystic fibrosis sputum and wounds as well as in an in vivo Galleria mellonella model. The Pickering emulsions showed drastically increased antibiofilm activity compared to that of the compounds as such in both in vitro models and protected G. mellonella larvae from S. aureus-induced killing. Our data show that Pickering emulsions from phytochemicals are potentially useful for treating specific biofilm-related chronic infections.".
• 01GQ6ZK3EEFC561RH1XN6FJ4FQ abstract "Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis are associated with life-threatening infections. Despite the best medical care, these infections frequently occur due to antibiotic resistance and the formation of biofilms of these two bacteria (i.e., clusters of bacteria embedded in a matrix). As a consequence, there is an urgent need for effective anti-biofilm treatments. Here, we describe the antibacterial properties of a combination treatment of diethyldithiocarbamate (DDC) and copper ions (Cu2+) and their low toxicity in vitro and in vivo. The antibacterial activity of DDC and Cu2+ was assessed in vitro against both planktonic and biofilm cultures of S. aureus and S. epidermidis using viability assays, microscopy, and attachment assays. Cytotoxicity of DDC and Cu2+ (DDC-Cu2+) was determined using a human fibroblast cell line. In vivo antimicrobial activity and toxicity were monitored in Galleria mellonella larvae. DDC-Cu2+ concentrations of 8 mu g/ml DDC and 32 mu g/ml Cu2+ resulted in over 80% MRSA and S. epidermidis biofilm killing, showed synergistic and additive effects in both planktonic and biofilm cultures of S. aureus and S. epidermidis, and synergized multiple antibiotics. DDC-Cu2+ inhibited MRSA and S. epidermidis attachment and biofilm formation in the xCELLigence and Bioflux systems. In vitro and in vivo toxicity of DDC, Cu2+ and DDC-Cu2+ resulted in > 70% fibroblast viability and > 90% G. mellonella survival. Treatment with DDC-Cu2+ significantly increased the survival of infected larvae (87% survival of infected, treated larvae vs. 47% survival of infected, untreated larvae, p < 0.001). Therefore, DDC-Cu2+ is a promising new antimicrobial with activity against planktonic and biofilm cultures of S. epidermidis and S. aureus and low cytotoxicity in vitro. This gives us high confidence to progress to mammalian animal studies, testing the antimicrobial efficacy and safety of DDC-Cu2+.".
• 01GQ6ZK8B4SNDCE8Z1785V5WS8 abstract "The chemosensory signal transduction system Wsp regulates biofilm formation and related phenotypes by influencing cyclic-di-GMP (c-di-GMP) levels in bacterial cells. This is typically achieved by activation of the diguanylate cyclase WspR, through phosphorylation of its phosphoreceiver domain. The Wsp system of Burkholderia cenocepacia J2315 is in one operon with the hybrid response regulator/histidine kinase wspH, but lacks the diguanylate cyclase wspR which is located in a different operon. The expression of wspH, the first gene in the B. cenocepacia Wsp operon as well as pellicle biofilm formation are epigenetically regulated in B. cenocepacia J2315. To investigate whether WspH regulates pellicle biofilm formation, several mutants with altered expression of wspH were constructed. Mutants with increased expression of wspH showed accelerated pellicle biofilm formation, reduced swimming motility and increased c-di-GMP levels. This was independent of WspR phosphorylation, showing that WspR is not the cognate response receiver for histidine kinase WspH. IMPORTANCE Biofilms are surface-attached or suspended aggregates of cells, that are problematic in the context of bacterial infections, as they provide protection from antibiotic treatment. Burkholderia cenocepacia can colonize the lung of immunocompromised patients and forms biofilms that increase its recalcitrance to antibiotic treatment. Pellicles are biofilms which form at an air-liquid interface to take advantage of the higher oxygen concentrations in this environment. How quickly pellicles are formed is crucial for the fitness of obligate aerobic bacteria such as B. cenocepacia. Cyclic-di-GMP (c-di-GMP) levels determine the transition between planktonic and biofilm lifestyle, and WspH controls c-di-GMP production. WspH is therefore important for the fitness of B. cenocepacia in environments with gradients in oxygen concentration, such as the human lung.".
• 01GQ6ZK8B90VAKY0QPGS97KBTT abstract "Burkholderia cenocepacia infections are difficult to treat and there is an urgent need for alternative (combination) treatments. The use of anti- virulence therapies in combination with antibiotics is a possible strategy to increase the antimicrobial susceptibility of the pathogen and to slow down the development of resistance. In the present study we evaluated the ??-lactam and colistin- potentiating activity, and anti- virulence effect of the non- mevalonate pathway inhibitor FR900098 against B. cenocepacia in various in vitro and in vivo models. In addition, we evaluated whether repeated exposure to FR900098 alone or when combined with ceftazidime leads to increased resistance. FR900098 potentiated the activity of colistin and several ??-lactam antibiotics (aztreonam, cefepime, cefotaxime, ceftazidime, mecillinam and piperacillin) but not of imipenem and meropenem. When used alone or in combination with ceftazidime, FR900098 increased the survival of infected Galleria mellonella and Caenorhabditis elegans. Furthermore, combining ceftazidime with FR900098 resulted in a significant inhibition of the biofilm formation of B. cenocepacia. Repeated exposure to FR900098 in the C. elegans infection model did not lead to decreased activity, and the susceptibility of the evolved B. cenocepacia HI2424 lineages to ceftazidime, FR900098 and the combination of both remained unchanged. In conclusion, FR900098 reduces B. cenocepacia virulence and potentiates ceftazidime in an in vivo C. elegans model, and this activity is not lost during the experimental evolution experiment carried out in the present study.".
• 01GQ70EKSJ5KWT6J9KBV4BJ6CF abstract "This article reports the findings of a multi-method study that explored whether frequency and duration of parental smartphone use in the presence of children is associated with parents' perceptions of quality time and child restlessness, an indicator of difficult child behavior. Additionally, the study explored whether parental perceptions of technoference, respectively time displacement, mediate the association between smartphone use measures - respectively frequency and duration of use - and the outcome measures. We collected experience sampling and smartphone log data among parents of children aged between 4 and 10 years to assess momentary between- and within-person-level associations between the frequency and duration of co-present parental smartphone use and parents' perceptions of quality time, their child's restlessness, technoference, and time displacement. We gathered 1484 observations from 56 participants. Multilevel mediation analysis revealed no between-person associations between our two measures of parental smartphone use and the outcome measures. At the within-person level, no associations were found with child restlessness. However, smartphone frequency did predict perceptions of greater technoference, and smartphone duration predicted time displacement. Technoference in turn negatively predicted parental experiences, although the hypothesized mediation did not reach statistical significance. Time displacement predicted parental experiences of quality time in the opposite direction of what was hypothesized. Some heterogeneity was found in the observed within-person associations, suggesting that there is person-specificity. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of our findings.".
• 01GQ70F9N326FE4X4B8XGENCTQ abstract "Besides Helicobacter pylori, a Gram-negative bacterium that may cause gastric disorders in humans, non-Helicobacter pylori helicobacters (NHPH) may also colonize the stomach of humans and animals. In pigs, H. suis can induce gastritis and may play a role in gastric ulcer disease, possibly in association with Fusobacterium gastrosuis. In the present study, gastric samples from 71 slaughtered pigs and 14 hunted free range wild boars were tested for the presence of DNA of F. gastrosuis and gastric Helicobacter species associated with pigs, dogs cats and humans, using species-specific PCR assays, followed by sequencing of the amplicon. These gastric samples were also histopathologically evaluated. Almost all the pigs presented gastritis (95.8%). Helicobacter spp. were detected in 78.9% and F. gastrosuis in 35.2% of the animals. H. suis was the most frequently identified Helicobacter species (57.7% of the animals), followed by a H. pylori-like species (50.7%) and less often H. salomonis and H. felis (each in 2.8% of the animals). H. suis was most often detected in the glandular (distal) part of the stomach (pars oesophagea 9.9%, oxyntic mucosa 35.2%, antral mucosa 40.8%), while the H. pylori-like species was mainly found in the non-glandular (proximal) part of the stomach (pars oesophagea 39.4%, oxyntic mucosa 14.1%, antral mucosa 4.2%). The great majority of wild boars were also affected with gastritis (71.4%) and Helicobacter spp. and F. gastrosuis were detected in 64.3% and 42.9% of the animals, respectively. H. bizzozeronii and H. salomonis were the most frequently detected Helicobacter species, while a H. pylori-like species and H. suis were only occasionally identified. These findings suggest that these microorganisms can colonize the stomach of both porcine species and may be associated with gastric pathology. This should, however, be confirmed through bacterial isolation. This is the first description of the presence of F. gastrosuis DNA in the stomach of wild boars and a H. pylori-like species in the pars oesophagea of the porcine stomach.".
• 01GQ71D930HHS2959YGMPQ87GT abstract "Designing for interactive play brings new dimensions for play experience blended with digital and physical characteristics. Starting from the insights of two interactive soft toy projects, the authors explore interactive soft materials in designing for playfulness through a material-driven design approach. This can bring a new dimension in designing interaction for ludic experiences and reveal specific characteristics of soft materials. By combining somaesthetic and embodied design methods, the studio aims at exploring what makes soft materials playful. Moreover, it addresses how technology can enhance the playfulness of these materials and what kind of playful interaction scenarios can be imagined with interactive soft materials by involving the whole-body in the design process. The learnings from the studio will help the authors build a framework which shows the potential and describes the characteristics of interactive soft materials to create new tangible, embedded and embodied interactions for play.".
• 01GQ71H07SYW890377FPGYT31X abstract "Dispersal is a central biological process tightly integrated into life-histories, morphology, physiology and behaviour. Such associations, or syndromes, are anticipated to impact the eco-evolutionary dynamics of spatially structured populations, and cascade into ecosystem processes. As for dispersal on its own, these syndromes are likely neither fixed nor random, but conditional on the experienced environment. We experimentally studied how dispersal propensity varies with individuals' phenotype and local environmental harshness using 15 species ranging from protists to vertebrates. We reveal a general phenotypic dispersal syndrome across studied species, with dispersers being larger, more active and having a marked locomotion-oriented morphology and a strengthening of the link between dispersal and some phenotypic traits with environmental harshness. Our proof-of-concept metacommunity model further reveals cascading effects of context-dependent syndromes on the local and regional organisation of functional diversity. Our study opens new avenues to advance our understanding of the functioning of spatially structured populations, communities and ecosystems.".
• 01GQ71N8MQ4V1RDN6SWSD5E4BX abstract "Automatic detection of foliar diseases in potato fields, such as early blight caused by Alternaria solani, could allow farmers to reduce the application of plant protection products while minimizing production losses. UAV-based, high resolution, NIR-sensitive cameras offer the advantage of a detailed top-down perspective, with high-contrast images ideally suited for detecting Alternaria solani lesions. A field experiment was conducted with 8 plots housing 256 infected plants which were monitored 6 times over a 16-day period with a UAV. A modified RGB camera, sensitive to NIR, was combined with a superzoom lens to obtain ultra-high-resolution images with a spatial resolution of 0.3 mm/px. More than 15,000 lesions were annotated with points in two full size images corresponding to 1250 cropped tiles of 256 by 256 pixels. A deep learning U-Net model was trained to predict the density of Alternaria solani lesions for every pixel. In this way, density maps were calculated to indicate disease hotspots as a guide for the farmer.".
• 01GQ71YQN6KS0N3NNKTKNSJ1VS abstract "Aim The continuous spread of invasive species is attributed to demographic processes and high dispersal rates. Both can change and evolve during range expansion, eventually accelerating spread dynamics. Here, we document such an accelerated spread for one of the most invasive spiders in Europe, the dwarf spider Mermessus trilobatus, and test whether dispersal, reproduction or competitive ability is at the source of this pattern. Location Europe. Time period 1981-2021. Major taxon studied Mermessus trilobatus (Arachnida: Araneae: Linyphiidae). Methods First, we collected records from 21 countries across Europe to document the speed of progression of the invasion front over the last 40 years. Second, we collected live individuals from populations in the longest and more recently invaded areas and compared the dispersal propensity of offspring raised under standardized conditions. Third, we compared the reproduction and competitive ability of females derived from the populations of long-invaded areas against areas with more recent establishment. Results The progression of the invaded range increased from about 150 km in the 1980s to some 400 km between 2010 and 2020. Dispersal-related behaviour was nearly twice as frequent in offspring from invasion front populations compared to the core area. By contrast, we found no differences in reproduction or competitive ability among the studied populations. Further, neither joint inheritance nor trade-offs of dispersal, reproduction or competitive ability were identified. Main conclusion As high dispersal is recessively inherited in M. trilobatus, our results suggest that the accelerated invasion is due to the accumulation of dispersive but not more reproductive or competitive genotypes in newly colonized areas. Given the high climatic amplitude of the species in North America, we expect it to spread over the remaining parts of Europe and large parts of Asia in the coming decades. Accelerated range expansion through the evolution of dispersal behaviour could play a role in numerous arthropod invasions worldwide.".
• 01GQ728K472N2EGF1WXFPP7PK8 abstract "Background/aims: Chimerism monitoring by means of high-throughput sequencing or quantitative PCR of biallelic single nucleotide and insertion/deletion polymorphisms has shown potential for improved patient care when compared to the gold standard capillary electrophoresis assays. When designing chimerism assays the number of markers to screen needs consideration: it determines the informativity rate and accuracy of the assay, but screening too many markers increases the assay's cost and complexity. The minimal number of biallelic markers to screen is currently unstudied.Materials/methods: A simulation framework accounting for marker minor allele frequencies, the number of markers screened, marker allelic constellations and donor-recipient relatedness was constructed. The framework was validated through analysis of 324 clinical samples.Results: Empirical clinical data confirm the validity of the simulation framework. With guidelines suggesting to monitor at least three informative markers, we demonstrate that, for optimized assays, at least 40 biallelic markers need to be screened to achieve enough informative markers in over 99% of cases. We propose and discuss several assay optimization strategies.Conclusion: Currently used chimerism assays often screen too little or too many markers, leaving room for optimization. Through support of the simulation framework here introduced and validated, more informative, cost-effective chimerism assays can be designed.".
• 01GQ728K4GYGEAKQ9P2ED0TMHV abstract "Chimerism analysis is widely used to aid in the clinical management of patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Many laboratories currently use assays based on PCR followed by capillary electrophoresis, with a limit of quantification of 1% to 5%. Assays with a lower limit of quantification could allow for earlier relapse detection, resulting in improved patient care. This study investigated the analytical, clinical, technical, and practical performance of the Devyser next-generation sequencing chimerism assay, a commercial high-throughput sequencing-based assay for chimerism analysis. Performance of this assay was compared with that of the Promega PowerPlex 16 HS assay, a commercial capillary electrophoresis-based assay. A limit of quantification of 0.1% was achievable with the Devyser assay. The repeatability, reproducibility, trueness, and linearity of the Devyser assay were acceptable. The Devyser assay showed potential for earlier relapse detection compared with the Promega assay. Conclusive analysis was not possible for 3% of donor-recipient pairs with the Devyser assay due to an insufficient number of informative markers; this factor was not an issue for the Promega assay. Further improvements in assay design or data analysis may allow the assay's applicability to be extended to all donor-recipient pairs studied. Technical performance criteria for chimerism analysis by high-throughput sequencing were suggested and evaluated. Both assays were found to be practical for use in a clinical diagnostics laboratory. (J Mol Diagn 2021, 23: 1116-1126; https://doi.org/10.1016/".
• 01GQ72EQEAP9C7KBCZ14N14SY2 abstract "To intensify O3 mass transfer and increase removal of micropollutants in bio-treated landfill leachate, this study applied two minerals (lava rock and expanded clay aggregate (ECA)) to build mineral-packed bubble columns (named as LBC and EBC, respectively). The O3 gas-liquid mass transfer coefficient kLa of EBC (0.58 min -1) and LBC (0.62 min -1) was 2.4-2.5 times that of a non-packed bubble column (BC, 0.24 min -1). The O3 decompo-sition coefficient kd was also increased to 0.066 min- 1 in EBC and 0.050 min- 1 in LBC, as ECA and lava rock could work as stable catalysts to promote the O3 decomposition and generation of center dot OH. LBC and EBC had a comparable beneficial effect towards micropollutants removal and their intermediates' degradation. At O3 dose of 0.08-1.46 g O3/g COD, minerals increased the removal of O3-recalcitrant compounds (atrazine and alachlor) by 20-40 % and the UV254 reduction (Delta UV254) by over 20 %. The enhancement of LBC and EBC resulted from the improved O3 mass transfer and the catalytic function of the minerals. Besides, a two-stage linear correlation between the O3-recalcitrant compounds removal and Delta UV254 was observed. The first and second stage are dominated by the direct O3 reaction and center dot OH oxidation process, respectively. For the packed columns, removal mainly occurred at the second stage probably due to the improved center dot OH production by the packing materials. Based on such correlation model, Delta UV254 can be used as a surrogate for predicting the removal of micro -pollutants in packed columns. Overall, this study provides novel insights into the enhanced micropollutants abatement in landfill leachate by using mineral-packed ozone bubble columns.".
• 01GQ72FTWGTAERAZXWSRKS43ZK abstract "Physical game demands in football (soccer) are position-dependent and a large heterogeneity in muscle fiber typology exists among national level players (1). We could expect that it is advantageous for central midfielders, who cover a large total distance, to have a slow typology and for forwards, who sprint a lot, to have a fast typology. At the higher levels this could lead to a selection effect. Furthermore, it was shown that fast typology individuals (FT) fatigue more than slow typology individuals (ST) (2). Therefore, we investigated if muscle typology is different between national level football players who occupy other positions and secondly if FT experience more in-game fatigue than ST. Muscle typology was estimated in 147 male professional football players (24.7±4.8yr) by measuring carnosine in the soleus muscle via proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (3). Players were classified as ST, intermediate typology individuals (IT) or FT based on carnosine content. Our sample comprised 17 goal keepers, 27 center backs, 20 full backs, 45 midfielders, 20 wingers and 18 forwards. Time-motion data were collected by a multi-camera system to measure in-game fatigue as the decay in running activities from the 1st to the 2nd half. Following categories were used: total distance; standing/walking 0-6 km/h; jogging 6-15 km/h; running 15-20 km/h; high speed 20-25 km/h; sprinting >25 km/h; max speed; medium and high acceleration 2 to 3 m/s² and >3 m/s²; medium and high deceleration -2 to -3 m/s² and <-3 m/s². Players’ category values were averaged and adjusted for playtime, but only for 59 outfield players who completed at least 5 games with 75 min playtime or more. ANOVAs were used to determine differences in muscle typology between positions and differences in distances covered in each intensity category during the whole game, 1st and 2nd half and decay from 1st to 2nd half. There were no significant differences in muscle typology between positions (p=0.412), indicating that the variance within positions was larger than between positions. FT covered more high acceleration distance in the whole match (+9.3%, p=0.042) and 1st half (+11.9%, p=0.008) than ST players, but no other differences were found between FT, IT and ST considering the whole game, 1st and 2nd half. However, several high-intensity parameters showed a larger decline from 1st to 2nd half in FT players (high speed -10.7%; high acceleration -12.4%; high deceleration -12.7%) than in ST players (high speed -4.3%; high acceleration -7.7%; high deceleration -7.8%; p<0.05) and IT players (high acceleration -6.8%; p=0.011). Possessing a particular muscle typology is not required to play a certain football position at the national level. However, it seems that FT are worse at maintaining their high-intensity performance from the 1st to the 2nd half compared to ST. 1 Lievens et al (2021). Sports Med, 52, 177-185 2 Lievens et al (2020). J Appl Phys, 128, 648-659 3 Baguet et al (2011). PLoS ONE, 6, 1-6".
• 01GQ732JBVEBMEKV8YBS0S8SRH abstract "Some may argue that they might be complementary in that decolonial approaches could ideally create more space for political debates within which decentring approaches could then advance pragmatic improvements and induce gradual evolutions towards systemic change. There is however no guarantee that this would happen, especially if decentring and post/decolonial agendas continue to be conflated. While decentring may lead to a more legitimate and effective EU foreign policy, it may also not diminish or may even reinforce the coloniality of EU power. Thus, rather than ‘decentring Europe’, we ought to move towards decolonial futures that truly prioritize the democratic struggle against colonial continuities.".
• 01GQ736WHPWG6DFPA7GJ3BV6RF abstract "Commercial rabbit farms commonly house breeding does in single-litter cages that generate concerns for animal welfare. Group housing increases the space per animal and allows for more natural behaviour. When housed in group, however, does exhibit aggressive behaviour around parturition and continuous group housing systems have negative effects on reproductive performances. Part-time group housing aims to reduce aggression by delaying the grouping of does until 3-4 weeks after kindling. The aim of this study was to test the effect of the time of grouping on reproductive performances and animal welfare. This trial was conducted at 2 commercial rabbit farms in Belgium. At 22 (G22), 25 (G25) or 28 (G28) days post-partum (pp) groups of four does with their kits were created by removing walls between single-litter cages (13 and 7 groups per treatment on farm 1 and 2, respectively). Reproductive performances, skin injuries and behaviour were monitored during 2 (farm 1) and 3 (farm 2) consecutive reproduction rounds. Both does and kits were checked for skin injuries immediately prior to grouping (as reference for newly acquired injuries), at 1, 4 and 6 days after grouping, and again at weaning (35 days pp). Doe behaviour of a subset of groups (N = 21 per treatment) was observed at 3 days pp. Results showed that kit mortality between day 22 and 35 was highest in G22 and lowest in G28 (P = 0.03). The incidence of injured does and kits increased after grouping. At weaning 93.3% of the does and 39% of the kits showed injuries. On all observation days, G22 kits had fewer and less severe injuries compared with kits from G25 (P < 0.05) and G28 (P < 0.05). Skin injuries before grouping were found but this was unexpected; it may indicate aggression unrelated to group housing. Behavioural analyses indicated that G22 does showed more locomotion (P = 0.02) and more friendly social behaviour (P < 0.001), but less comfort behaviour (P < 0.001) compared with G28 does. Offensive and defensive behaviours were rarely observed (< 0.1%). In summary, skin injuries were found after grouping, with fewest and less severe injuries observed in G22 kits on all observation days. Reproductive performances did not show significant differences except for kit mortality, which was dependent on treatment. Pre-grouping injuries should be considered as it may affect estimates of the incidence and severity of aggression of rabbits housed part-time in groups.".
• 01GQ739WVNYM6M20EW7D0SQW7S abstract "Aim To assess the effect of immediate provisionalization (IP) on soft tissue changes, hard tissue changes, and clinical parameters following single immediate implant placement (IIP). Materials and Methods Two independent reviewers conducted an electronic literature search in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane databases as well as a manual search to identify eligible clinical studies up to September 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IIP with IP (test) and IIP without IP (control) were included for a qualitative and quantitative analysis. The primary outcome was vertical midfacial soft tissue changes. Secondary outcomes included horizontal midfacial soft tissue changes, implant survival, mesial and distal papillary changes, Pink Esthetic Score (PES) at final follow-up, marginal bone-level changes, probing depth at final follow-up, and bleeding on probing at final follow-up. Results Of the 8213 records, 7 RCTs reporting on 323 patients who received 323 single immediate implants (IIP + IP: 161 implants in 161 patients; IIP: 162 implants in 162 patients) were selected with a mean follow-up ranging from 12 to 60 months. Risk of bias assessment yielded some concerns for five RCTs and high risk for two RCTs. Meta-analysis on the cases with intact alveoli demonstrated 0.87 mm (95% confidence interval [CI] [0.57; 1.17], p < .001) less apical migration of the midfacial soft tissue level for IIP + IP when compared to IIP alone. Implant survival, papillary changes, marginal bone-level changes, probing depth, and bleeding on probing were not significantly affected by IP. Insufficient data were available for meta-analyses on horizontal midfacial soft tissue changes and PES. Conclusions IP may contribute to midfacial soft tissue stability at immediate implants. However, high-quality RCTs are needed since the strength of this conclusion is currently rated as low according to GRADE guidelines.".
• 01GQ73FMX1MQ4B6DJKNPSDEKRZ abstract "Public research and innovation initiatives in animal health aim to deliver key knowledge, services and products that improve the control of animal infectious diseases and animal welfare to deliver on global challenges including public health threats, environmental concerns and food security. The Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is a popular innovation policy instrument to monitor the maturity of upcoming new technologies in publicly funded research projects. However, while general definition of the 9 levels on the TRL-scale enable uniform discussions of technical maturity across different types of technology, these definitions are very generic which hampers concrete interpretation and application. Here, we aligned innovation pipeline stages as used in the animal health industry for the development of new vaccines or drugs with the TRL scale, resulting in TRL for animal health (TRLAH). This more bespoke scale can help to rationally allocate funding for animal health research from basic to applied research, map innovation processes, monitor progress and develop realistic progress expectations across the time span of a research and innovation project. The TRLAH thus become an interesting instrument to enhance the translation of public research results into industrial and societal innovation and foster public-private partnerships in animal health.".
• 01GQ73FXRD5HBQB3JZTKVJ38WQ abstract "Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKp) raised concern worldwide. We studied 22 hvKp clinical invasive isolates referred to the Belgian national reference laboratory between 2014 and 2020. Sixty-four percent of the isolates expressed K2 capsular serotype and belonged to 7 different MLST lineages, while 32% expressed K1 (all belonging to ST23) and were associated with liver abscesses. Primary extra-hepatic infections were reported in 36% and sepsis for 95% of the patients with 30% of deaths. Improved clinical and microbiological diagnostics are required as hvKp may represent an underestimated cause of community-acquired invasive infections in Belgium.".
• 01GQ73GT0RQSVMT9930ZYJ75H0 abstract "Background Communication on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) between caregivers and their young adolescent children plays a significant role in shaping attitudes and behaviours that are critical to laying the foundations for positive and safe SRH behaviours in later adolescence. Nevertheless, this communication is often limited, particularly in countries where adolescent sexuality is taboo. This study assessed the topics discussed ('level') and the comfort of caregivers with communicating with young adolescents on SRH, and their correlates. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 218 caregivers of young adolescents (10-14 years) in Mbarara district of south-western Uganda in January and February 2020. Participants were selected through consecutive sampling. A structured, pre-tested questionnaire administered by interviewers was used for data collection. The surveys were computer-assisted using Kobo Collect software. Data was exported to STATA 14 for analysis. Level of SRH communication was measured based on 10 SRH communication topics, while comfort was based on 9 SRH discussion topics. Bivariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were conducted to determine correlates of level of, and comfort with, SRH communication P-value < 0.05 was considered for statistical significance. Results The mean number of topics that caregivers discussed was 3.9 (SD = 2.7) out of the 10 SRH topics explored. None of the respondents discussed all the topics; 2% reported ever discussing nine topics with their young adolescent, while 3.5% reported never discussing any of the topics. General health and bodily hygiene (89.9%) and HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (77.5%) were the most commonly discussed, while night emissions in boys (4.3%) and condoms (8.3%) were least discussed. The majority of caregivers (62%) reported a high level of comfort with discussing SRH. The mean comfort score was 21.9 (SD = 3.8). In general, the level of SRH communication increased with an increase in comfort with SRH communication beta = 0.22 (0.04); 95% CI = (0.15, 0.30). The level of comfort with SRH communication decreased with an increase in the number of YAs in a household beta = -0.92 (0.38); 95%CI = (-1.66,-0.18). Conclusion Overall, the level of SRH communication is low and varies according to the number of SRH topics. Caregivers' comfort with SRH communication with YAs was a significant correlate of SRH communication. This justifies the need for interventions that aim to improve caregivers' comfort with communicating with young adolescents about SRH. Plain English summary Communication between parents and children about sexual and reproductive health (SRH) during the early adolescence stage (10-14 years) plays a significant role in creating positive reproductive health outcomes in later adolescence and adulthood. We conducted surveys in rural areas of Mbarara district among 218 pairs of caregivers and their children aged 10-14 years between January and February 2020. The purpose of the study was to understand whether there is communication between the two, and how comfortable they felt having discussions about SRH. We also asked caregivers and their children about their knowledge of SRH, and how they generally felt about SRH for young people. This study, however, reports only results from caregivers. We found that, on average, caregivers discussed 4 of the 10 SRH topics explored in this survey with their child, and that the majority of the caregivers reported being very comfortable discussing SRH-especially general health and bodily hygiene-with their children. On the whole, we found that caregivers' SRH communication was largely influenced by their comfort with discussing SRH with their adolescent child. The level of comfort was influenced by the number of young adolescents living in a household. However, there is no clear justification for this finding from existing literature. In conclusion, there is a need for interventions that facilitate improvement of communication on SRH between parents/caregivers and young adolescents. These should focus on improving comfort levels by promoting communication skills for caregivers and emphasizing value clarification.".
• 01GQ73K34G5ZTX4ZGGZ2AMWC87 abstract "In the early nineteenth century, Belgium received all of Napoleon’s codes. Despite a call for national codifications in the 1831 Constitution of independent Belgium, Napoleon’s 1804 Civil Code survived until the twenty-first century. However, in 2016, the Minister of Justice Koen Geens communicated a large-scale recodification program, including a new Civil Code. The code was planned to consist of nine books in an order determined by pragmatic—not doctrinal—considerations without a common method for editing the parts of the code. By 1 November 2020, Book 8 had already entered into force, and Parliament had already approved Book 3, with Books 4 and 5 and a part of Book 2 already being submitted to it. Among the factors explaining this success are the pragmatism and flexibility of the drafting process, the lack of truly revolutionary reforms and the enthusiasm for a new code that Minister Geens generated among law professors and politicians. Thus far, the drafters of the code have not yet dealt with some controversial issues of family law, so that some of the hardest work is still ahead of them. However, there is no doubt that almost two hundred years after independence, Belgium has finally emancipated its private law from France.".
• 01GQ73KEF3BJT8CQJXV0ESZR7B abstract "Background Adolescent pregnancy increases the risk of disability and death due to unsafe abortion, prolonged labour and delivery, and complications after birth. Availability of accurate data is important to guide decision-making related to adolescent sexual reproductive health (ASRH). This study analyses the trends in prevalence and factors associated with adolescent pregnancy in Kenya using data from three national Demographic Health Surveys (2003, 2008/2009, 2014). Methods Our analysis focused on a subsample of data collected from women aged 20 to 24 years. A trend analysis was performed to establish a change in the rate of adolescent pregnancy in 2003, 2008/2009, and 2014 survey data points. Binary Logistic regression and pooled regression analysis were used to explore factors associated with adolescent pregnancy. Results The percentage of women aged 20 to 24 years who reported their first pregnancy between ages 15 and 19 years was 42% in 2003 and 42.2% in 2009 but declined to 38.9% in 2014. Using regression analyses, we established that education status, marital status, religion and wealth quintile were associated with adolescent pregnancy. Trend analysis shows that there was an overall decreasing trend in adolescent pregnancy between 2003 and 2014. Conclusion Although Kenya has made strides in reducing the prevalence of adolescent pregnancy in the last decade, much more needs to be done to further reduce the burden, which remains high. Definition Adolescents: Although WHO defines the adolescence period as being 10-19 years, this paper focuses on the late adolescent period, 15-19 years, here in referred to as adolescents.".
• 01GQ73KZWPMVNHYNV0SM0HKTNY abstract "Background To assess the prevalence and evolution of transmitted drug resistance (TDR) in Belgium, a total of 3708 baseline human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 polymerase sequences from patients diagnosed between 2013 and 2019 were analyzed. Methods Protease and reverse-transcriptase HIV-1 sequences were collected from the 7 national Aids Reference Laboratories. Subtype determination and drug resistance scoring were performed using the Stanford HIV Drug Resistance Database. Trends over time were assessed using linear regression, and the maximum likelihood approach was used for phylogenetic analysis. Results A total of 17.9% of the patients showed evidence of TDR resulting in at least low-level resistance to 1 drug (Stanford score >= 15). If only the high-level mutations (Stanford score >= 60) were considered, TDR prevalence dropped to 6.3%. The majority of observed resistance mutations impacted the sensitivity for nonnucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) (11.4%), followed by nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors (6.2%) and protease inhibitors (2.4%). Multiclass resistance was observed in 2.4%. Clustered onward transmission was evidenced for 257 of 635 patients (40.5%), spread over 25 phylogenetic clusters. Conclusions The TDR prevalence remained stable between 2013 and 2019 and is comparable to the prevalence in other Western European countries. The high frequency of NNRTI mutations requires special attention and follow-up. Phylogenetic analysis provided evidence for local clustered onward transmission of some frequently detected mutations.".
• 01GQ73N25ZWDAFWBQVVESSV59J abstract "Vulvar allergic contact dermatitis (vACD) and irritative contact dermatitis (vICD) are common and accompanied by a great burden on the patient's life. We aimed to review the existing literature on vACD and vICD in order to provide a comprehensive reference list of potential vulvar allergens and irritants, as well as to establish the role of patch testing therein. A systematic search was performed in Medline, Embase and Web of Science using a search string based on the PICO-format. The study protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42021239527). Multiple allergens were identified and included metals, topical drugs, fragrances, preservatives, cosmetic constituents and rubber components. Not all positive reactions were, however, considered to be relevant. Patch testing is the primary tool for the identification of the causal allergens. Testing with standard series alone was proven to be insufficient. Little information about irritants was found. In the future, additional series and late readings should be considered in standard practice. Studies on vICD are scarce and further research is necessary. More population-based research should be performed.".
• 01GQ73PWM0GFGKX71J68WPNPZ8 abstract "Aim To identify the impact of COVID-19 measures on sexual behaviors and sexual satisfaction in Luxembourg residents. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional online survey of adults (> 18 years of age) residing in Luxembourg, while COVID-19 restrictions were in place. The survey was available from January 15 to February 12, 2021 in four languages (French, German, English and Portuguese). Survey questions focused on masturbation, cuddling, condom use, sex frequency, sexting, cybersex, watching porn, and sexual satisfaction. Results 557 volunteers completed the survey (35.5% men, 64.3% women). Sexual satisfaction and sexual problems variables were assessed on 4-point Likert scales (0 = not at all/never to 3 = very/often). Sexual problems increased during the COVID-19 measures while sexual satisfaction decreased compared to before the introduction of COVID-19 restrictions (assessed retrospectively). Factors associated with increased odds of sexual satisfaction included having a steady relationship before COVID-19 restrictions, engaging in sexting, reporting good mental health and not altering alcohol intake. Conclusions The context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures implemented in Luxembourg affected sexual behaviors and sexual satisfaction. Sexual and reproductive health care centers and health professionals in general should take these results into consideration when providing care. Recommendations on the importance of sexual health for general wellbeing and behaviors associated with sexual satisfaction should be offered and possibilities to experience sexuality while reducing contamination risks be discussed.".
• 01GQ73S7E4VTP3HJ4B3CDE7KG9 abstract "Open and positive parent-child communication about sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is known to reduce negative SRH outcomes for young people. However, socio-cultural influences can inhibit meaningful SRH communication. Restrictive gender norms threaten the SRH of adolescents, as they make adolescent boys more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior and make girls more vulnerable to negative SRH outcomes. This study intended to critically understand the impact of gender norms and expectations on parent-child SRH communication in rural south-western Uganda. Methods: The study adopted a community-based participatory approach using community stakeholder engagement meetings (n = 2), in-depth interviews (n = 12), and three focus group discussions with parents (n = 18). The study considered biological parents, step-parents, grandparents, uncles and aunties, as long as they were primary caregivers of adolescents aged 10-14. Results: Participants elaborated on the socio-cultural aspects that shaped their experiences of parent-child SRH communication such as cultural gender norms, religion, and media influences. They also referred to socio-economic challenges, lack of knowledge, and the role of peers and schools. Conclusions: There is need for community-based interventions to improve parent-child SRH communication to address the deeply rooted cultural and gender contexts in rural south-western Uganda.".
• 01GQ73ZRGD8ARQ7G497DYHWWQ5 abstract "Purpose Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) are physically inactive and spend more time in sedentary behaviours than healthy persons, which increases the risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases. In this randomised crossover study, the cardiometabolic health effects of replacing sitting with light-intensity physical activity (LIPA) and exercise (EX) were investigated. Materials and methods Twenty-eight mildly disabled PwMS performed four 4-day activity regimens in free-living conditions; CONTROL (habitual activity), SIT, LIPA, and EX. Plasma glucose and insulin (oral glucose tolerance test), plasma lipids, inflammation, resting heart rate, blood pressure, body weight, and perceived exertion were measured (clinical-trials.gov: NCT03919058). Results CONTROL: 9.7 h sitting/day, SIT: 13.3 h sitting/day, LIPA: 8.3 h sitting, 4.7 h standing, and 2.7 h light-intensity walking/day, and EX: 11.6 h sitting/day with 1.3 h vigorous-intensity cycling. Compared to SIT, improvements (p < 0.001) after LIPA and EX were found for insulin total area under the curve (-17 019 +/- 5708 and -23 303 +/- 7953 pmol/L*min), insulin sensitivity (Matsuda index +1.8 +/- 0.3 and +1.9 +/- 0.4) and blood lipids (triglycerides: -0.4 +/- 0.1 and -0.5 +/- 0.1 mmol/L; non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol: -0.3 +/- 0.1 and -0.5 +/- 0.1 mmol/L), with no difference between LIPA and EX. Perceived exertion was higher after EX compared to LIPA (Borg score [6-20]: +2.6 +/- 3.3, p = 0.002). Conclusion Replacing sitting with LIPA throughout the day exerts similar cardiometabolic health effects as a vigorous-intensity exercise in PwMS.".
• 01GQ742P2991CZ1D5D1ZA3EDJB abstract "Cardiometabolic comorbidities are highly prevalent in clinical populations, and have been associated (partly) with their sedentary lifestyle. Although lifestyle interventions targeting sedentary behaviour (SB) have been studied extensively in the general population, the effect of such strategies in clinical populations is not yet clear. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effect of different lifestyle interventions on SB and cardiometabolic health in clinical populations. Randomised controlled trials were collected from five bibliographic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus). Studies were eligible for inclusion if they evaluated a lifestyle intervention to reduce objectively measured SB, in comparison with a control intervention among persons with a clinical condition. Data were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis. In total, 7094 studies were identified. Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria and were categorised in five population groups: overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular, neurological/cognitive and musculoskeletal diseases. Participants reduced their SB by 64 min/day (95%CI: [-91, -38] min/day; p < 0.001), with larger within-group differences of multicomponent behavioural interventions including motivational counselling, self-monitoring, social facilitation and technologies (-89 min/day; 95%CI: [-132, -46] min/day; p < 0.001). Blood glycated haemoglobin concentration (-0.17%; 95% CI: [-0.30, -0.04]%; p = 0.01), fat percentage (-0.66%; 95% CI: [-1.26, -0.06]%, p = 0.03) and waist circumference (-1.52 cm; 95%CI: [-2.84, -0.21] cm; p = 0.02) were significantly reduced in the intervention groups compared to control groups. Behavioural lifestyle interventions reduce SB among clinical populations and improve cardiometabolic risk markers such as waist circumference, fat percentage, and glycaemic control. Sedentary behaviour, Cardiometabolic health, Clinical populations.".
• 01GQ743SX9AXA7GNMMM937ZJEZ abstract "Background Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience reduced exercise tolerance that substantially reduces quality of life. The mechanisms underpinning exercise intolerance in MS are not fully clear. This study aimed to determine the contributions of the cardiopulmonary system and peripheral muscle in MS-induced exercise intolerance before and after exercise training. Methods Twenty-three patients with MS (13 women) and 20 age-matched and sex-matched healthy controls (13 women) performed a cardiopulmonary exercise test. Muscle fibre type composition, size, succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity, capillarity, and gene expression and proteins related to mitochondrial density were determined in vastus lateralis muscle biopsies. Nine MS patients (five women) were re-examined following a 12 week exercise training programme consisting of high-intensity cycling interval and resistance training. Results Patients with MS had lower maximal oxygen uptake compared with healthy controls ((V) over dotO(2peak), 25.0 +/- 8.5 vs. 35.7 +/- 6.4 ml/kg/min, P < 0.001). The lower gas exchange threshold (MS: 14.5 +/- 5.5 vs. controls: 19.7 +/- 2.9 mL/kg/min, P = 0.01) and slope of (V) over dotO(2) versus work rate (MS: 9.5 +/- 1.7 vs. controls: 10.8 +/- 1.1 mL/min/W, P = 0.01) suggested an intramuscular contribution to exercise intolerance in patients with MS. Muscle SDH activity was 22% lower in MS (P = 0.004), and strongly correlated with several indices of whole-body exercise capacity in MS patients (e.g. (V) over dotO(2peak), Spearman's rho = 0.81, P = 0.002), but not healthy controls (rho = 0.24, P = 0.38). In addition, protein levels of mitochondrial OXPHOS complexes I (-40%, P = 0.047) and II (-45%, P = 0.026) were lower in MS patients versus controls. Muscle capillary/fibre ratio correlated with (V) over dotO(2peak) in healthy controls (rho = 0.86, P < 0.001) but not in MS (rho = 0.35, P = 0.22), and did not differ between groups (1.41 +/- 0.30 vs. 1.47 +/- 0.38, P = 0.65). Expression of genes involved in mitochondrial function, such as PPARA, PPARG, and TFAM, was markedly reduced in muscle tissue samples of MS patients (all P < 0.05). No differences in muscle fibre type composition or size were observed between groups (all P > 0.05). (V) over dotO(2peak) increased by 23% following exercise training in MS (P < 0.001); however, no changes in muscle capillarity, SDH activity, gene or protein expression were observed (all P > 0.05). Conclusions Skeletal muscle oxidative phenotype (mitochondrial complex I and II content, SDH activity) is lower in patients with MS, contributing to reduced exercise tolerance. However, skeletal muscle mitochondria appeared resistant to the beneficial effects of exercise training, suggesting that other physiological systems, at least in part, drive the improvements in exercise capacity following exercise training in MS.".
• 01GQ747PT4VW2HZZ9ZB5S8XWRK abstract "Thorough understanding of the initial colonization process of human intestines is important to optimize the prevention of microbiota-associated diseases, and also to further improve the current microbial therapies. In recent years, therefore, colonization of the human gut has gained renewed interest. However, due to a lack of standardization of life events that might influence this early colonization process in humans, many generally accepted insights are based on deduction and assumption. In our review, we compare knowledge on colonization in humans with research in piglets, because the intestinal tract of pigs is remarkably similar to that of humans and the early-life events are more standardized. We assess potential similarities and challenge some concepts that have been widely accepted in human microbiota research. Bacterial colonization of the human gut is characterized by successive waves in a progressive process, to a complex gut microbiota community. After re-analyzing available data from piglets, we found that the bacterial colonization process is very similar in terms of the wave sequence and functionality of each wave. Moreover, based on the piglet data, we found that, in addition to external factors such as suckling and nutrition, the bacterial community itself appears to have a major influence on the colonization success of additional bacteria in the intestine. Thus, the colonization process in piglets might rely, at least in part, on niche dependency, an ecological principle to be considered in the intestinal colonization process in humans.".
• 01GQ748XTB058KA57Q1J1XXDA3 abstract "This report explains the construction of a set of indexes that summarise the performance on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for all 300 Flemish municipalities. The 2020 edition of the Flemish SDG index and monitor offers a number of improvements over the previous version, including an expanded set of indicators, the use of the newly released household survey data as well as the ability to track the scores over time. This data is used to construct indexes comparing the performance of the municipalities relative to the top and bottom performances in Flanders. Having constructed the indexes, we then try to distinguish and explain the patterns that can be identified in the overall score, as well as the score on the individual SDGs. Specifically, we look at geographical, demographic and economic characteristics of the municipalities. In this way, we aim to offer policymakers different ways to understand the performance of their municipalities. As such, the exploratory nature of the findings of this report displays the versatility of recently developed monitoring tools to facilitate the implementation of the SDGs. The comparative nature of the index can help pave the way for municipalities who wish to take pro-active stances towards reaching the SDGs by 2030.".
• 01GQ74DP89SP7VAJBAHW7PSDTQ abstract "For Sign Languages (SLs), can we create a SignNet, like a WordNet for spoken languages: a network of semantic relations between constitutive elements of SLs? We first discuss approaches that link SL data to wordnets, or integrate such elements with some adaptations into the structure of WordNet. Then, we present requirements for a SignNet, which is built on SL data and then linked to WordNet.".
• 01GQ74JEG73W0SWT6EDB596BX1 abstract "Sexual behavior of psychiatric inpatients is often inadequately addressed within psychiatric institutions. This systematic review aimed to identify existing policies, guidelines, and recommendations regarding inpatient sexual behavior in psychiatric units, institutions, and supported housing across Europe in existing literature. It also aimed to assess the attitudes held by mental health professionals (MHPs) and inpatients toward existing policies, guidelines, and recommendations. Nine databases were searched in seven languages for articles published between 2000 and 2020. Double-blind bias assessment was performed on 10 articles. Five thematic categories emerged from the selected studies: (1) types of policies and guidelines; (2) MHPs’ and inpatients’ attitudes toward inpatient sexual behavior; (3) impact and strategies related to inpatient sexual behavior; (4) barriers to inpatient sexual behavior; and (5) facilitators to inpatient sexual behavior. Most screened publications reported implicit norms addressing inpatient sexual behavior among the staf. Surveyed MHPs and inpatients typically showed opposing attitudes regarding inpatient sexual behavior, with MHPs generally deeming such behavior unsafe and inpatients emphasizing it as their human right. The aims of this systematic review were partially fulflled as articles reported little or no policy documents and guidelines and, therefore, did not allow for the assessment of policy impact. MHPs’ attitudes toward inpatient sexual behavior were addressed and trends in several countries outside of Europe addressing inpatient sexual behavior were discussed. Finally, capacity to consent with respect to inpatient sexual behavior is discussed in the context of human rights.".
• 01GQ74JSFWZJTSVH50RKRQKQBX abstract "Digital health interventions are effective for hypertension self-management, but a comparison of the effectiveness and implementation of the different modes is lacking. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of short message service (SMS), smartphone application and website interventions on improving blood pressure in people with hypertension, and to report on their reach, uptake and feasibility. CINAHL, Cochrane Central, Embase, Medline and PsychInfo were searched on 25th May 2022 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in English from 1st January 2009 that examined the effectiveness of digital health interventions on reducing blood pressure in adults with hypertension. Risk of Bias was assessed using Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2). Data on systolic and diastolic blood pressure reduction were synthesised in a meta-analysis, and data on reach, uptake and feasibility were summarised narratively. The level of evidence was evaluated using GRADE. Of 3,235 records identified, 29 RCTs from 12 countries (n = 7,592 participants) were included. Eleven studies used SMS as the primary mode of delivery of the digital health intervention, 13 employed smartphone applications, and five implemented the interventions via websites. Overall, digital health intervention group participants achieved a -3.62 [-5.22, -2.02] mm Hg greater reduction in systolic blood pressure compared to control group participants. All three different modes of delivery of the intervention resulted in statistically significant reductions in systolic blood pressure compared to the control group, with no statistically significant differences between the three different modes of delivery (p = 0.73). Due to considerable heterogeneity between included studies and the high risk of bias overall, the level of evidence was assigned a low overall score. SMS intervention studies reported higher reach compared to smartphone application and website-based intervention studies, but smartphone application studies reported higher uptake compared to the other two. Digital health interventions were associated with improved blood pressure control, compared to usual care, regardless of the mode of delivery. Considering that at least 92% of the global population has access to a digital telecommunication medium and that numerous digital health tools are available for hypertension management, clinicians should familiarise themselves with this modality of program delivery and encourage people with hypertension to use evidence-based digital health tools for improving their self-management of hypertension. Digital health interventions now have the option of several modes of delivery and choice should be made based on context, feasibility, economics, and patients preference, emphasising the importance of study co-design.".
• 01GQ74NJZKEZD74052GRP3HMT3 abstract "This analysis reviews the performance of Bruges on reaching the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) using the 2020 SDG Index for Flemish Cities. Overall, Bruges performs well, especially when compared to other regions and cities with similar characteristics. In particular, it exceeds expectations on SDG7 Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG10 Reduced Inequalities, SDG8 Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG17 Partnership for the Goals. In contrast, Bruges' scores are near the bottom of the distribution on SDG12 Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG1 No Poverty. Nevertheless, it performs significantly better on the latter goal than expected for a city of its size and population. Vice versa, for SDG2 Zero Hunger and SDG15 Life on Land, its scores are higher but lie well below the expectations. Our analysis looks at how and why the scores have changed over time. We suggest a few possible paths for improvement for those indexes where Bruges is still lagging. These include additional investment in organic agriculture (SDG2b), reducing non-recycled waste (SDG12a), and increasing environmental protection (SDG15a).".
• 01GQ74PVYMWGTM1NBJE2HVQ94F abstract "Background: Recent studies emphasize the role of emotion dysregulation as an underlying mechanism initiating and maintaining emotional eating in obesity. Since multidisciplinary obesity treatment (MOT) does not directly address emotion regulation (ER), the current study aimed to investigate the feasibility of an ER training in children and adolescents with obesity on top of MOT. Feasibility was evaluated multi-informant on relevant parameters e.g. practicability, satisfaction, change in affect and homework compliance.Methods: Participants (N = 50, M_age = 12.26, 60.7 % girls) with obesity received a brief ER training and were assigned to one out of three conditions to learn one specific ER strategy (i.e., Cognitive reappraisal, Distraction or Acceptance). Afterwards the ER strategy was further trained by a homework assignment during 5 consecutive days. Children and adolescents, trainers and as well as the educators of the treatment center completed a feasibility questionnaire. Results: The training was positively evaluated by different informants for 11 out of 19 feasibility criteria. Only one implementation barrier was reported regarding homework compliance. Furthermore, some important considerations could be taken into account e.g. session length and motivation.Conclusions: Reports suggest that, with some modifications, it is feasible to implement an ER training on top of MOT. In addition, future training protocols should focus on other essential components of ER (e.g., emotional awareness, emotional flexibility).".
• 01GQ74V15CXM11SNKA6PQ9XC20 abstract "There is a growing recognition that the successful implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is dependent upon whether the Goals are adopted locally. As estimated by Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), 65% of the successes of the SDGs depend on the immediate and active involvement of municipalities (Lafortune et al., 2019). In this context, the SDG monitor outlined here tries to define the extent to which the Flemish cities and municipalities are partners in these global goals. The main goal of the SDG monitor is to help municipalities and stakeholders evaluate ‘where are we doing well and where are we underperforming, where are we making progress or going backwards?’ (VVSG, 2020, p.18). Two years ago, IDEA Consult launched the first edition of the SDG monitor along with a website that allows municipalities to explore their SDG performance. It coincided with a similar report by United Nations University Institute on Comparative Regional Integration (UNU-CRIS). The latter focused mainly on identifying the patterns in the SDG scores of Flemish municipalities, particularly the effect of differences in municipal income and size (Standaert et al., 2020). Given the complementarity of their approach, UNU-CRIS and IDEA consult decided to join forces for the second edition of the SDG monitor. In addition to combining their analyses, the 2021 edition centred on the updated citizen’s survey data in the Gemeenteen Stadsmonitor and how SDG performance has changed over time (Standaert et al., 2021). This third edition of the index is created as part of a larger project in preparation for the upcoming Voluntary Sub-national Review and in cooperation with the Vereniging van Vlaamse Steden en Gemeenten (VVSG) and the Vereniging Vlaamse Provincies (VVP). Within the context of this project, our primary goal for the index was to increase its usefulness as a policy tool for local municipalities. To that end, we collected feedback from a large group of stakeholders to identify which indicators are relevant in the Flemish context. From this list, we selected indicators that track the progress towards the SDGs, leaving out the ones measuring the efforts undertaken, whether money-related or personal-related, or contextual factors. This is a departure from last year’s index, which included all types of indicators. As such, the SDG index indicates those areas where further efforts are needed, irrespective of any actions already undertaken.".
• 01GQ74V7ZKBG7AK8QKJWSP5FAV abstract "In recent years, several nations have implemented various measures to control the surge of new synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) entering the recreational drug market. In July 2021, China put into effect a new generic legislation, banning SCRAs containing one of seven general core scaffolds. However, this has driven manufacturers towards the synthesis of SCRAs with alternative core structures, exemplified by the recent emergence of "OXIZID SCRAs." Here, using in vitro beta-arrestin2 recruitment assays, we report on the CB1 and CB2 potency and efficacy of five members of this new class of SCRAs: BZO-HEXOXIZID, BZO-POXIZID, 5-fluoro BZO-POXIZID, BZO-4en-POXIZID, and BZO-CHMOXIZID. All compounds behaved as full agonists at CB1 and partial agonists at CB2. Potencies ranged from 84.6 to 721 nM at CB1 and 2.21 to 25.9 nM at CB2. Shortening the n-hexyl tail to a pentyl tail enhanced activity at both receptors. Fluorination of this pentyl analog did not yield a higher receptor activation potential, whereas an unsaturated tail resulted in decreased potency and efficacy at CB1. The cyclohexyl methyl analog BZO-CHMOXIZID was the most potent compound at both receptors, with EC50 values of 84.6 and 2.21 nM at CB1 and CB2, respectively. Evaluation of the activity of a seized powder containing BZO-4en-POXIZID suggested a high purity, in line with high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD), gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis. Furthermore, all tested compounds showed a preference for CB2, except for BZO-POXIZID. Overall, these findings inform public health officials, law enforcement agencies, and clinicians on these newly emerging SCRAs.".
• 01GQ75043P5C87THST2W9GXSAZ abstract "New forms of digital care are introducing new methods of communication, care delivery, data sharing, and access to health information. The internet of things, in which sensors continuously transmit data on all types of processes, hold great promise for the care industry. Medical sensors could for instance allow clinicians to remotely monitor their patients and to take immediate actions when required. Furthermore, healthy people can be monitored as well, so that potential health issues can be either prevented or detected much earlier on. While there is clear agreement on the potential of the so-called internet of medical things, the scattering of data among the different stakeholders in care remains a critical challenge to overcome in order for this new technology to prove its added value. A human-centered, health-data-driven ecosystem in order to tackle these problems is given. The model consists out of four data quadrants: administrative and financial, logistics and facility, medical, and paramedical generating data based on four different questions: ‘who am I?’, ‘where am I?’, ‘Am I healthy?’, and ‘how do I recover?’. It frames how data from all these different sources needs to be integrated by technology surrounding the central client in different environments. The connection and integration of this generated data can come from different sources like devices, platforms, humans, etc. Three possible flows have been described on how this integration and connection can be achieved based on edge and fog computing, cloud computing and centralized computing.".
• 01GQ757043ZZ4MNSKMZ52FAKJ1 abstract "Following the class-wide ban of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) in China, SCRAs carrying new core and linker structures, aimed at circumventing the recent Chinese generic legislation, have appeared on the recreational drug market. A very recent example is (S)-2-(2-(1-(4-fluorobenzyl)-1H-indol-3-yl)acetamido)-3,3-dimethylbutanamide (ADB-FUBIATA), which is structurally closely related to the potent SCRA ADB-FUBICA, but carries an additional methylene in the linker region of the molecule. ADB-FUBIATA has recently been identified in seized materials in China, Russia, the United States, and also Belgium; however, its pharmacological characteristics were unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the intrinsic cannabinoid receptor (hCB(1) and hCB(2)) activation potential of this previously unknown substance via two distinct yet similar in vitro beta-arrestin2 recruitment assays, based on the NanoLuc Binary Technology (R). At CB1, a potency of 635 nM (EC50) was found, with an efficacy (E-max) of 141% relative to the reference compound CP55,940. On the other hand, ADB-FUBIATA had almost no activity at CB2, indicative of a clear CB1 selectivity. Interestingly, this activation pattern differs markedly from that observed for ADB-FUBICA, which was previously found to be potent and efficacious at both cannabinoid receptors. Additionally, the bioassays were applied to a seized powder containing ADB-FUBIATA, as analytically confirmed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to diode-array detection (HLPC-DAD), gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography couple to time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The EC50 and E-max values obtained for this powder were very similar to those of the ADB-FUBIATA analytical standard, suggesting a high purity of the powder, although analytical techniques did reveal that the sample was not entirely pure.".
• 01GQ757VZPEZJC8FGMBNY6FQWP abstract "Exposure in vivo (EXP) is an effective treatment to reduce pain-related fear and disability in chronic pain populations. Yet, it remains unclear how reductions in fear and pain relate to each other. This single-case experimental design study attempted to identify patterns in the individual responses to EXP and to unravel temporal trajectories of fear and pain. Daily diaries were completed before, during and after EXP. Multilevel modelling analyses were performed to evaluate the overall effect. Temporal effects were scrutinized by individual regression analyses and determination of the time to reach a minimal clinically important difference. Furthermore, individual graphs were visually inspected for potential patterns. Twenty patients with chronic low back pain and complex regional pain syndrome type I were included. On a group level, both fear and pain were reduced following EXP. Individually, fear was significantly reduced in 65% of the patients, while pain in only 20%. A decrease in fear was seen mostly in the first weeks, while pain levels reduced later or remained unchanged. Daily measurements provided rich data on temporal trajectories of reductions in fear and pain. Overall, reductions in fear preceded pain relief and seemed to be essential to achieve pain reductions.".
• 01GQ75EJ92FAPTA9H2CY9N933N abstract "Purpose Achieving adequate primary stability is of crucial importance for successful osseointegration. However, many implant systems struggle to achieve adequate stability in cases where support around the upper coronal aspect of the implant is limited. The aim of this in-vitro study was to compare the stability of conventionally tapered (CT) versus reverse tapered body shift (RTBS) implants at varying bone support levels. Methods Peak insertion torque measurements of CT and RTBS implants were assessed in synthetic bone blocks at relative bone support levels representing scenarios in which a 13 mm long implant was 100%, 80% 60%, 40% and 20% surrounded by bone according to its length (n = 20 for each group). Results The mean [95% CI] insertion torque (Ncm) for the CT implants at the 100%, 80%, 60%, 40% and 20% relative bone support scenarios was 39.9 [38.38, 41.38], 31.8 [30.91, 32.73], 17.0 [16.40, 17.62], 10.3 [9.80, 10.70] and 4.3 [3.96, 4.55], respectively. Similarly, the mean insertion torque (Ncm) for the RTBS implants at each bone support level was 49.7 [47.54, 51.87], 50.1 [47.42, 52.79], 45.5 [42.99, 48.09], 23.6 [22.11, 25.13] and 7.3 [6.72, 7.89], respectively. The difference in performance (CT vs RTBS) was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion Reverse tapered body shift implants appear to provide superior primary stability to CT implants when bone support around the coronal section is limited.".
• 01GQ75EJY7QZ77K37ZTCPKH9KB abstract "Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a functionally unique form of cell death that promotes a T-cell-dependent anti-tumor immune response specific to antigens originating from dying cancer cells. Many anticancer agents and strategies induce ICD, but despite their robust effects in vitro and in vivo on mice, translation into the clinic remains challenging. A major hindrance in antitumor research is the poor predictive ability of classic 2D in vitro models, which do not consider tumor biological complexity, such as the contribution of the tumor microenvironment (TME), which plays a crucial role in immunosuppression and cancer evasion. In this review, we describe different tumor models, from 2D cultures to organ-on-a-chip technology, as well as spheroids and perfusion bioreactors, all of which mimic the different degrees of the TME complexity. Next, we discuss how 3D cell cultures can be applied to study ICD and how to increase the translational potential of the ICD inducers. Finally, novel research directions are provided regarding ICD in the 3D cellular context which may lead to novel immunotherapies for cancer.".
• 01GQ75G6PGM134ZPE0QGN6CHHX abstract "This work focuses the social context of writing in ancient Western Arabia in the oasis of ancient Dadan, modern-day al-ʿUlā in the northwest of the Arabian Peninsula between the sixth to first centuries BC. It offers a description and analysis of the language of the inscriptions and the variation attested within them. It is the first work to perform a systematic study of the linguistic variation of the Dadanitic inscriptions. It combines a thorough description of the language of the inscriptions with a statistical analysis of the distribution of variation across different textual genres and manners of inscribing. By considering correlations between language-internal and extralinguistic features this analysis aims to take a more holistic approach to the epigraphic object. Through this approach an image of a rich writing culture emerges, in which we can see innovation as well as the deliberate use of archaic linguistic features in more formal text types.".
• 01GQ75HX53YJBTKSHCCRXYRWD8 abstract "Traditional methods to assess soil properties or monitor soil processes typically rely on point data. They often fail to represent the heterogeneity of soil. Airborne remote sensing techniques allowed us to measure proxies for soil properties or variables at regional scale, but often covering only the first few centimeters of soil. Ground-based geophysical methods can fill in the gap between these two scales. They primarily observe variations in the thermal, electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic or seismic properties of the subsurface to map its characteristics or to monitor dynamic changes and can yield 2- or 3-D quantitative information on soil properties or processes. Geophysical methods have been applied in various soil-related research fields: from soil mapping and precision agriculture, to geotechnical engineering and soil remediation and to archeology and forensic investigation. This chapter briefly introduces the ground-based geophysical techniques appropriate for soil applications.".
• 01GQ75N21G95WCWNGQHGN35DH9 abstract "The urgent transition to a more sustainable and biobased economy drives the growing interest in alternative materials. Biomaterials which can grow with minimal energy from various feedstocks and are fully biodegradable are a perfect example of such alternative materials. Despite the worldwide emergence of startup companies in biomaterials, real-world applications are limited, and a market breakthrough has not occurred yet, partially due to a lack of scientific insights. This project aims to build a fundamental knowledge platform focusing on the interplay between feedstock types, fermentation process parameters, and biological and material characteristics. This is a starting point toward biomaterials' more controllable and reliable growth. Further, the project expands the portfolio of material types via cocultivation strategies and explores engineered living materials (ELMs). By integrating sensor modules, the living materials can interact with the environment. Imagine roof insulation material that insulates but also detects and repairs potential leakages! Finally, by working with an artist and experts in bioethics, this project also explores and evaluates the bioethical implications of biomaterial applications in our daily lives. We use Bio-Kintsugi, a combination of the traditional Japanese kintsugi and biomaterials, as an accessible way to introduce the public to biomaterials. This multifaceted and interdisciplinary project offers a new way to connect academia with society and opens the public debate about the application of biomaterials.".
• 01GQ75S357PBJYTM5Q4FPWP5X3 abstract "We establish the optimal order of Malliavin-type remainders in the asymptotic density approximation formula for Beurling generalized integers. Given α∈(0,1] and c>0 (with c≤1 if α=1 ), a generalized number system is constructed with Riemann prime counting function Π(x)=Li(x)+O(xexp(−clogαx)+log2x), and whose integer counting function satisfies the extremal oscillation estimate N(x)=ρx+Ω±(xexp(−c′(logxlog2x)αα+1) for any c′>(c(α+1))1α+1 , where ρ>0 is its asymptotic density. In particular, this improves and extends upon the earlier work [Adv. Math. 370 (2020), Article 107240].".
• 01GQ75TENBXG8C28N69XVMT4DM abstract "Activation of the human cannabinoid receptor type 1 (hCB(1)R) with high spatiotemporal control is useful to study processes involved in different pathologies related to nociception, metabolic alterations, and neurological disorders. To synthesize new agonist ligands for hCB(1)R, we have designed different classes of photoswitchable molecules based on an indole core. The modifications made to the central core have allowed us to understand the molecular characteristics necessary to design an agonist with optimal pharmacological properties. Compound 27a shows high affinity for CB1R (K-i (cis-form) = 0.18 mu M), with a marked difference in affinity with respect to its inactive "trans-off" form (CB1R K-i trans/cis ratio = 5.4). The novel compounds were evaluated by radioligand binding studies, receptor internalization, sensor receptor activation (GRABeCB2.0), Western blots for analysis of ERK1/2 activation, NanoBiT beta arr2 recruitment, and calcium mobilization assays, respectively. The data show that the novel agonist 27a is a candidate for studying the optical modulation of cannabinoid receptors (CBRs), serving as a new molecular tool for investigating the involvement of hCB(1)R in disorders associated with the endocannabinoid system.".
• 01GQ75Y7KC0SXBNFPHM7ZPNKM7 abstract "The Arabic documentary papyri (seventh-ninth centuries CE) are precious witnesses to the day-to-day written Arabic of their time. These texts exhibit considerable variation in grammar and orthography. Classical Arabic and the prescriptive attitudes of the Arabic grammarians traditionally provided the lens through which the earliest documents of the Islamic period have been read. Since Classical Arabic was only fully canonized in the tenth century, approaching the early Arabic papyri, and the variation attested in them, through this standard is anachronistic. This article seeks to understand the language of these documents on their own terms. It employs a quantitative approach to investigate the nominal case system. focusing on the form of 'ab in construct, producing a fine-grained analysis of how inflection operated in early documentary Arabic, and attempts to account for points of divergence within a historical and sociolinguistic framework.".
• 01GQ764P7KKMFCHFQTGHV893PE abstract "A good control over the valence state of dopants in luminescent materials or phosphors is important for the develop-ment of highly efficient phosphors for white light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Detailed spectroscopic studies allow us to reveal optically induced charge transfer processes and elucidate the underlying mechanisms in phosphors with additional functionalities such as photochromism or persistent luminescence. However, the spectro-scopic study of the valence switching of europium has scarcely been reported. Here, we report on the Sr3SiO5:Eu phosphor, in which photo-reduction (Eu3+-* Eu2+) and photo-or thermal-oxidation (Eu2+-* Eu3+) reactions are demonstrated. The variation of the illumination wavelength influences the efficiency of both the photo-reduction/oxidation and the accompanying dynamic process, especially when the two opposite reactions occur simultaneously. Temperature-dependent annealing indicates a large trap depth for the electron trapped by Eu3+. The good stability of Eu2+ obtained by photo-reduction and the repeatability of the Eu2+/Eu3+ valence switching are confirmed as well. Furthermore, the application of optical information storage is demonstrated based on this phosphor. The results of this work may not only improve the understanding of Eu2+/Eu3+ valence change during illumination but also allow the development of new functional luminescent materials.".

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