Matches in Ghent University Academic Bibliography for { ?s <http://schema.org/abstract> ?o. }
- 01GQ7658RXSW68MTH12NDJ9KMQ abstract "The plastid genome of flowering plants generally shows conserved structural organization, gene arrangement, and gene content. While structural reorganizations are uncommon, examples have been documented in the literature during the past years. Here we assembled the entire plastome of Bignonia magnifica and compared its structure and gene content with nine other Lamiid plastomes. The plastome of B. magnifica is composed of 183,052 bp and follows the canonical quadripartite structure, synteny, and gene composition of other angiosperms. Exceptionally large inverted repeat (IR) regions are responsible for the uncommon length of the genome. At least four events of IR expansion were observed among the seven Bignoniaceae species compared, suggesting multiple expansions of the IRs over the SC regions in the family. A comparison with 6,231 other complete plastomes of flowering plants available on GenBank revealed that the plastome of B. magnifica is the longest Lamiid plastome described to date. The newly generated plastid genome was used as a source of selected genes. These genes were combined with orthologous regions sampled from other species of Bignoniaceae and all gene alignments concatenated to infer a phylogeny of the family. The tree recovered is consistent with known relationships within the Bignoniaceae.".
- 01GQ76AQM19SQC2TMS6NNT6F01 abstract "In and around the site of ancient Dadan (modern-day al-'Ula), located in the Northwest of the Arabian Peninsula, many inscriptions are found in the local North Arabian script variety called Dadanitic (6th-1st centuries BC). Many of the Dadanitic inscriptions mention the zll ceremony for the main local deity Dugabat, both unique to Dadan. While the zll inscriptions are the most common type of monumental inscriptions in the Dadanitic script, their function is still little understood. Previous interpretations of the zll inscriptions have primarily relied on the etymology of the root zll, 'to cover' or 'shade' (compare Arabic zulal 'shade'). This article takes a broader approach to the inscriptions and considers their formulaic structure, phrasing, the distribution of attested personal names in them, and the use of the root in other genres and corpora to arrive at a new interpretation of the ritual, suggesting that the zll inscriptions are better understood as documenting land leases. In this context the root ZLL should be understood as 'to write, to put down in writing; to record'.".
- 01GQ76C84ERMZMK71C5KG3RF0X abstract "Floral features contribute with remarkable additions to morphological studies and are widely used to address questions about the evolution and diversification of several groups of plants. Even though Simaroubaceae are a small monophyletic family, the few detailed structural analyses of reproductive organs and the floral diversity and variations already described in their members stimulate novel structural studies. In this study, we investigate the evolution of reproductive features of Simaroubaceae by means of a combination of original data and a review of the literature, aiming to elucidate which floral characters are most informative for a better understanding of the evolutionary history of the group. We analyzed 21 out of the 23 genera of Simaroubaceae, plus six from Rutaceae and seven from Meliaceae as outgroups. We used a Bayesian method and the Parsimony optimality criterion to reconstruct ancestral reproductive character states using a re-analyzed phylogenetic tree of Sapindales. Here, we combined available molecular sequences to have the largest sample of Simaroubaceae genera. We found that the ancestral flowers of Simaroubaceae were probably polygamous or dioecious plants, with free carpels united only distally, with divergent, elongated stigmas, and with drupaceous, laterally flattened to lenticular fruits. The latter feature plus apocarpous carpels are putative synapomorphies of the family retrieved in this study. Imbricate petals and a diplostemonous androecium were recovered as conditions found in the ancestor of Simaroubaceae but also shared with the ancestors of Meliaceae and Rutaceae. Our findings were mostly in accordance with previous evolutionary studies on genera of Simaroubaceae and with other families of Sapindales.".
- 01GQ76KZ9G20TS5BR7XFRYT4ZG abstract "The plant family Bignoniaceae is a conspicuous and charismatic element of the tropical flora. The family has a complex taxonomic history, with substantial changes in the classification of the group during the past two centuries. Recent re-classifications at the tribal and generic levels have been largely possible by the availability of molecular phylogenies reconstructed using Sanger sequencing data. However, our complete understanding of the systematics, evolution, and biogeography of the family remains incomplete, especially due to the low resolution and support of different portions of the Bignoniaceae phylogeny. To overcome these limitations and increase the amount of molecular data available for phylogeny reconstruction within this plant family, we developed a bait kit targeting 762 nuclear genes, including 329 genes selected specifically for the Bignoniaceae; 348 genes obtained from the Angiosperms353 with baits designed specifically for the family; and, 85 low-copy genes of known function. On average, 77.4% of the reads mapped to the targets, and 755 genes were obtained per species. After removing genes with putative paralogs, 677 loci were used for phylogenetic analyses. On-target genes were compared and combined in the Exon-Only dataset, and on-target + off-target regions were combined in the Supercontig dataset. We tested the performance of the bait kit at different taxonomic levels, from family to species-level, using 38 specimens of 36 different species of Bignoniaceae, representing: 1) six (out of eight) tribal level-clades (e.g., Bignonieae, Oroxyleae, Tabebuia Alliance, Paleotropical Clade, Tecomeae, and Jacarandeae), only Tourrettieae and Catalpeae were not sampled; 2) all 20 genera of Bignonieae; 3) seven (out of nine) species of Dolichandra (e.g., D. chodatii, D. cynanchoides, D. dentata, D. hispida, D. quadrivalvis, D. uncata, and D. uniguis-cati), only D. steyermarkii and D. unguiculata were not sampled; and 4) three individuals of Dolichandra unguis-cati. Our data reconstructed a well-supported phylogeny of the Bignoniaceae at different taxonomic scales, opening new perspectives for a comprehensive phylogenetic framework for the family as a whole.".
- 01GQ76NC4D59Q7Z19BR86A1G88 abstract "Many refining processes involve the dissipation of metals to an aquatic phase following manipulation (cleaning, rinsing, shaping, cutting), use in consumer goods (wear, emissions during transportation) or at end-of-life (leaching from contact with rainfall). By using pure cultures of hydrogen oxidizing bacteria, the metal bioprecipitation and biosorption behavior was studied, potentially leading to essential progress in novel biohydrometallurgical technology.".
- 01GQ76NMJSZ6DWCJKR5MZJT0V9 abstract "Statement of problem. Various options are available to allow angle correction for screw-retained restorations for malaligned implants, including angled abutments, angled screw channel abutments, and angled implants. However, the effect these angle correction components have on prosthetic screw loosening is unclear. Purpose. The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the effect of angled abutments, angled screw channel abutments, and angled implants on prosthetic screw loosening. Material and methods. This manuscript followed the Preferred Reporting Items for the Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Searches were performed through 31 December 2021 in PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science with no year limit targeting in vitro studies evaluating the effect of angulation correction components on screw loosening. Results. A total of 460 articles were identified. After removing duplicates, 306 titles were screened. Nine of the remaining 36 articles selected for full-text analysis met the selection criteria. The qualitative analysis used data from 394 implants. All studies featured straight abutments as the control group, and, in 8 studies, the angle correction component was included on the level of the abutment. Only in 1 study was the angle correction component at the level of the implant. The angle correction of the prosthetic component varied from 0 degrees in all studies up to a maximum correction of 30 degrees. Statistically significant increases in screw loosening with increasing abutment angle correction were reported by multiple authors (P<.05). However, other articles reported nonsignificant differences in screw loosening because of angulation after cyclic loading (P>.05). The only study investigating angle correction at the implant level found significantly less screw loosening (P<.05) in the angled implant group compared with the nonangled implant group. Conclusions. Several options are available to correct discrepancies between the surgical axis and the ideal prosthetic axis for rehabilitations supported by dental implants. The current evidence does not clearly indicate the superiority of any single solution for minimizing screw loosening. (J Prosthet Dent 2024;132:520-7)".
- 01GQ76QGYHCHKT4SY4YFQNC16Q abstract "BackgroundNursing home residents (NHR) and staff have been disproportionally affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and were therefore prioritised in the COVID-19 vaccination strategy. However, frail older adults, like NHR, are known to have decreased antibody responses upon vaccination targeting other viral antigens.ObjectivesAs real-world data on vaccine responsiveness, we assessed the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among Belgian NHR and staff during the primary COVID-19 vaccination campaign.MethodsIn total, we tested 1629 NHR and 1356 staff across 69 Belgian NHs for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 IgM/IgG antibodies using rapid tests. We collected socio-demographic and COVID-19-related medical data through questionnaires. Sampling occurred between 1 February and 24 March 2021, in a randomly sampled population that received none, one or two BNT162b2 vaccine doses.ResultsWe found that during the primary vaccination campaign with 59% of the study population fully vaccinated, 74% had SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Among fully vaccinated individuals only, fewer residents tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (77%) than staff (98%), suggesting an impaired vaccine-induced antibody response in the elderly, with lowest seroprevalences observed among infection naive residents. COVID-19 vaccination status and previous SARS-CoV-2 infection were predictors for SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity. Alternatively, age >= 80 years old, the presence of comorbidities and high care dependency predicted SARS-CoV-2 seronegativity in NHR.ConclusionThese findings highlight the need for further monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 immunity upon vaccination in the elderly population, as their impaired humoral responses could imply insufficient protection against COVID-19.".
- 01GQ777866A76G8HVR6GR51WK0 abstract "A survey of plant-based wastes identified sunflower (Helianthus annuus) bark extract (SBE), produced via twin-screw extrusion, as a potential biostimulant. The addition of SBE to Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) seedlings cultured in vitro showed a dose-dependent response, with high concentrations causing severe growth inhibition. However, when priming seeds with SBE, a small but significant increase in leaf area was observed at a dose of 0.5 g of lyophilized powder per liter. This optimal concentration of SBE in the culturing medium alleviated the growth inhibition caused by 100 mM NaCl. The recovery in shoot growth was accompanied by a pronounced increase in photosynthetic pigment levels and a stabilization of osmotic homeostasis. SBE-primed leaf discs also showed a similar protective effect. SBE mitigated salt stress by reducing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (e.g., hydrogen peroxide) by about 30% and developing more expanded true leaves. This reduction in ROS levels was due to the presence of antioxidative agents in SBE and by activating ROS-eliminating enzymes. Polyphenols, carbohydrates, proteins, and other bioactive compounds detected in SBE may have contributed to the cellular redox homeostasis in salt-stressed plants, thus promoting early leaf development by relieving shoot apical meristem arrest. Sunflower stalks from which SBE is prepared can therefore potentially be valorized as a source to produce biostimulants for improving salt stress tolerance in crops.".
- 01GQ779ZV3CRKS6K4GC0CE3XNQ abstract "Lamiales is one of the most intractable orders of flowering plants, with several changes in family composition, and circumscription throughout history. The order is worldwide distributed, occurring in tropical forests and frozen habitats. In this study, a comprehensive phylogeny of Lamiales was reconstructed using DNA sequences. The tree was used to infer dispersal patterns, focusing on the tropics and extratropics. Molecular and species geographic data available from public repositories were combined to address both objectives. A total of 6,910 species, and 842 genera of Lamiales were sampled using the Python tool PyPHLAWD. The tree was inferred using RAxML, and recovered a monophyletic Lamiales. All 26 families were recovered as monophyletic with high support. The families Bignoniaceae, and Plantaginaceae are remarkable examples. The first emerged as monophyletic and included tribe Jacarandeae, while the later emerged as monophyletic in its sensu lato and included both the tribes Angelonieae, and Gratioleae. Distribution points for all species were retrieved from GBIF. After filtering, 1,136,425 records were retained. Species were coded as present in extratropical or tropical environments. The in and out of the tropics dispersal patterns were inferred using a maximum likelihood approach that identifies hidden rate changes. The model recovered higher rates of transition from extratropics to tropics, estimating two rates of state transitions. When ancestral states are considered, more discrete transitions from extratropics to tropics were observed. The extratropical state was also inferred for the crown node of Lamiales and old nested nodes, revealing a rare pattern of transitions to the tropics throughout the upper Cretaceous and Tertiary. A significant phylogenetic signal was recovered for the in and out of the tropics dispersal patterns, showing that state transitions are not frequent enough to erase the effect of tree structure on the data.".
- 01GQ77EHTTE75TWZATY8KPTK2Z abstract "Advanced chemical and mineralogical techniques are necessary to further our understanding of ore deposits and their genesis. Using X-ray micro-computed tomography (mu CT) and an automated mineralogy (AM) system based on scanning electron microscopy with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (SEM-EDX), we investigated the internal mineralogy of Sn-Nb-Ta pegmatites. This paper presents a comprehensive methodology to quantify and visualize the mineral relationships of ore samples in three-dimensional space at the microscopic scale. A list of all possible minerals present, a so-called mineral library, was deduced with a SEM-based AM system and served as the ground truth for the interpretation of mu CT data. A reconstructed attenuation coefficient (mu(rec)) was calculated for mineral phases that have been identified and provided a most correct guidance to differentiate between minerals for a given experimental mu CT setup. Despite some limitation in sample size and mineral identification, these complementary techniques enabled the differentiation of a Fe-Li mica from biotite based on the chemical attribution of lithium to mu(rec). Using statistical descriptors, we quantified the general orientation of individual mineral phases and their spatial correlation to comply with the needs of processing large datasets at a low computational expense. Applying this comprehensive methodology to a case study demonstrates the possibilities of combining a SEM-based AM system with mu CT analysis to investigate ore samples at the microscopic scale.".
- 01GQ77GERD108ES3GQ53WTNC0W abstract "The vertebrate vestibular system is crucial for balance and navigation, and the evolution of its form and function in relation to species' lifestyle and mode of locomotion has been the focus of considerable recent study. Most research, however, has concentrated on aboveground mammals, with much less published on subterranean fauna. Here, we explored variation in anatomy and sensitivity of the semicircular canals among 91 mammal species, including both subterranean and non-subterranean representatives. Quantitative phylogenetically informed analyses showed significant widening of the canals relative to radius of curvature in subterranean species. A relative canal width above 0.166 indicates with 95% certainty that a species is subterranean. Fluid-structure interaction modelling predicted that canal widening leads to a substantial increase in canal sensitivity; a reasonably good estimation of the absolute sensitivity is possible based on the absolute internal canal width alone. In addition, phylogenetic comparative modelling and functional landscape exploration revealed repeated independent evolution of increased relative canal width and anterior canal sensitivity associated with the transition to a subterranean lifestyle, providing evidence of parallel adaptation. Our results suggest that living in dark, subterranean tunnels requires good balance and/or navigation skills which may be facilitated by more sensitive semicircular canals.".
- 01GQ77PB8ZFGB7Y4DSKXR4W6MY abstract "Background Sepsis is a life-threatening disease for which critically important antimicrobials (CIA) frequently are used. Diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines for sepsis and critically ill calves are largely lacking. ObjectivesIdentify factors associated with mortality in critically ill calves and describe bacteria obtained from blood cultures of critically ill calves with sepsis and their antimicrobial resistance. AnimalsTwo-hundred thirty critically ill calves, mainly Belgian Blue beef cattle. MethodsRetrospective cohort study. Logistic regression, survival analysis, and decision tree analysis were used to determine factors associated with mortality. ResultsOf the critically ill calves, 34.3% had sepsis and 61.3% died. The final survival model indicated that calves with sepsis (hazard risk [HR]: 1.6; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0-2.5; P = .05), abnormal behavior (HR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.3-4.0; P = .005), and hypothermia (HR: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.72-0.95; P = .01) had a significantly higher mortality risk. In a second survival model, hypothermia (HR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.78-0.96; P = .004) and hypoglycemia (HR: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.5-3.3; P < .001) were risk factors for mortality. Decision tree analysis emphasized the importance of behavior, hypochloremia, hypoglycemia, hyperkalemia, and lung ultrasonography for mortality risk.Escherichia coli (30.6%) was most frequently isolated from blood cultures, of which 90.9% were multidrug resistant. Inappropriate use of antimicrobials was frequent for penicillin, amoxicillin, and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, but less for CIA. Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceMany critically ill calves have sepsis, which increases mortality risk. Bacteria involved are often resistant to first-intention antimicrobials but less resistant to CIA. The other identified risk factors for mortality can support therapeutic decision-making.".
- 01GQ77Q1BZTECTEA0GGXT67J08 abstract "One of the most considerable challenges organizations face is to remain relevant in a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world where the pace of technological and economic change is particularly high. Consequently, swift technology adoption has recently become increasingly important to stay relevant as an organization. The focus of related transformations has thus gained a significant digital component, further adding to the complexity of realizing a successful (digital) transformation. Due to this complexity, organizations struggle with their digital transformations in practice, mainly due to a lack of perspective and common language. This research explores how Enterprise Architecture and Capability-Based Management can provide solutions for these problems. In particular, this research project aims to define a framework that contains methods and other artifacts for capability-based management that organizations (and their managers, architects, analysts) can apply in practice. The research additionally focuses on the design of specific artifacts within this framework. This paper presents the research questions and their relevance, the practical implications, the adopted and projected research method, preliminary results, and the current state of our research.".
- 01GQ78AT8FQN16Z653XKRZQJJX abstract "Multimodal input, which combines written, auditory, and/or visual modalities, is pervasive in everyday life and should therefore be abundantly present in language teaching (e.g., The Douglas Fir Group, 2016). As important as multimodality is for language learning, this “topic has been ‘on the margins’ of TESOL Quarterly and in the TESOL community” (Early, et al., 2015, pp. 450-451). In recent years, research specifically on audiovisual input has determined that vocabulary learning is one of the clear benefits of such input (e.g., Rodgers & Webb, 2020), and there is also beginning evidence for the learning of grammar (e.g., Cintrón-Valentín et al., 2019), pronunciation (Wisniewska & Mora, 2020), and listening/speech decoding (Mitterer & McQueen, 2009). Regrettably, only a handful of studies have investigated whether and how L2 teachers approach multimodal input in teaching. To further contribute to the research-practice dialogue (Sato & Loewen, 2022), we examined factors that influence L2 teachers’ use of multimodal input in L2 teaching. We conducted an in-depth qualitative analysis of 12 hours of interview data from 21 practitioners in various L2 teaching contexts globally. Following three rounds of data analysis, four themes were identified: teacher-related, student-related, pedagogical, and contextual factors. The results indicate that teachers, as one would hope, drew on their own learning and teaching experiences and training supported by research-based practices, paid close attention to their students’ needs and goals, and relied on sound pedagogical principles during the implementation of multimodal input in their teaching. However, they also faced numerous challenges, such as lack of access to (and time constraints or requisite technical knowledge to develop) quality materials relevant to their curricula and teaching contexts. In this session, we present the study and related findings and invite attendees to discuss the next steps to bridge the research-practice gap on multimodal input.".
- 01GQ7925634CDR6Y1E1HQDCRJT abstract "Microplastics (1 mu m-5 mm), are ubiquitous in daily-use products and regularly end up in the wastewater. The main part of the wastewater is treated in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), which allow for at least partial removal of microplastics. The present study aimed to understand the contribution of domestic wastewater to microplastic pollution in Flanders (Belgium) via two main discharge routes of microplastics: (1) the effluent, and (2) removed fractions. Furthermore the effect of effluent discharge on the microplastic contamination in the waterway was studied in both surface water and sediment samples of upstream and downstream locations of the discharge from three WWTPs. On average, 12.64 +/- 20.20 microplastic/L entered a WWTP (10 mu m-5 mm). The effluent contained on average 0.41 +/- 0.91 microplastic/L, resulting in an average removal efficiency of 97.46% +/- 2.33%, which is comparable with various (non-)European countries. Removal efficiencies are both polymer- and size-specific, and data suggest that smaller particles are less efficiently removed from the wastewater, which also causes an increased input of smaller particles to the environment. The sludge is the most efficient treatment process to remove microplastics. Despite the high removal efficiencies, still 1.11 x 10(7) +/- 3.07 x 10(7) microplastics end up in the nearby waterway daily. Nonetheless, based on the results gathered in the present study, this does not seem to impact the microplastic concentration in the waterway significantly. In summary, the present study offers a holistic approach in the research on the impact of wastewater on microplastic pollution in the ecosystem, integrating different discharge routes and measuring the impact on environmental microplastic pollution. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;00:1-13. (c) 2022 SETAC".
- 01GQ79ZS2BB8N6G356J49YDJNM abstract "Toxicity tests represent a rapid, user-friendly and cost-effective means to assess the impact of wastewater quality on aquatic ecosystems. There are not many cases where wastewater management standards are set based on various bio-based ecotoxicity values. Here, we tested a novel multitaxon approach to compare standard water quality indices to toxicity metrics obtained from ecotoxicity tests, conducted using aquatic organisms representing several trophic levels (Aliivibrio, Ulva, Daphnia, and Lemna), for 99 industrial wastewater samples from South Korea. For five wastewater samples, the concentrations of Se, Zn, or Ni exceeded the permissible limits (1, 5, and 3 mg L-1, respectively). All the four physiochemical water quality indices tested were positively correlated with Se and Pb concentrations. The toxicity unit (TU) scores indicated a declining sensitivity to pollutants, in the order Lemna (2.87) > Daphnia (2.24) > Aliivibrio (1.78) > Ulva (1.42). Significant correlations were observed between (1) Cd and Ni, and Aliivibrio, (2) Cu and Daphnia, (3) Cd, Cu, Zn, and Cr and Lemna, and (4) Cu, Zn, and Ni and Ulva. Daphnia-Lemna and Lemna-Ulva were found to be good indicators of ecologically harmful Se and Ni contents in wastewater, respectively. We suggest that regulatory thresholds based on these bioassays should be set at TU = 1 for all the species or at TU = 1 for Aliivibrio and Ulva and TU = 2 for Daphnia and Lemna, if the number of companies whose wastewater discharge exceeds the allowable TU levels is <1 % or 5 % of the total number of industries, respectively. Taken together, these findings could help in establishing a rapid, ecologically relevant wastewater quality assessment system that would be useful for devel-oping strategies to protect aquatic ecosystems.".
- 01GQ7A1P6376N6P9P3XM3W7MFB abstract "Kubernetes’ high resource requirements hamper its adoption in constrained environments such as the edge and fog. Its extensible control plane is a significant contributor to this, consisting of long-lived processes called "controllers" that constantly listen for state changes and use resources even when they are not needed. This paper presents a WebAssembly-based framework for running lightweight controllers on-demand, only when they are needed. This framework extends the WebAssembly System Interface (WASI), in order to run Kubernetes controllers as lightweight Wasm modules. The framework runs these Wasm controllers in a modified version of Wasmtime, the reference WebAssembly (Wasm) runtime, that swaps idle controllers to disk and activates them when needed. A thorough evaluation shows this framework achieves a 64% memory reduction compared to traditional container-based controller frameworks.".
- 01GQ7A4H4AEWRJGW2YJJMAYHHS abstract "Prior work on patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) has shown that the administration of dopaminergic medication in the early to intermediate stages of PD benefits (motor) functions associated with the dopamine-depleted dorsal striatal circuitry but may 'overdose' and interfere with (cognitive) functions associated with the relatively intact ventral striatal circuitry. The present study aimed to elucidate this so-called dopamine overdose hypothesis for the action control domain. Using a within-subject design in a sample of 13 people with PD, we evaluated the effect of dopaminergic medication on two cognitive processes underlying goal-directed behaviour, namely action selection and initiation through event binding and conflict adaptation. We also investigated whether individual differences in the magnitude of medication effects were associated across these processes. Results showed no indications that dopaminergic medication affects action selection and initiation or conflict adaptation in PD patients. Additionally, we observed no correlations between both cognitive processes nor between individual differences in medication effects. Our findings do not support the notion that dopaminergic medication modulates action control processes, suggesting that the dopamine overdose hypothesis may only apply to a specific set of cognitive processes and should potentially be refined.".
- 01GQ7A5BJXHJFZSQJS4FHTYDVV abstract "The outbreak of COVID-19 in March 2020 led to substantial upheaval in the EU's trade policy. Over the course of a year, EU Trade Policy as a field witnessed the launch of hitherto unthinkable ideas; the proliferation of a range of new buzzwords such as resilience, autonomy, and reshoring; and ultimately the arrival of a new consensus in the Trade Policy Review of February 2021. This article uses a discourse-theoretical approach (PDT) to retrace the political process that unfolded throughout this year, from the start of the COVID-19 crisis, to a fundamental dislocation of EU trade politics, and ultimately to the consolidation of a partial, temporary, and frail new hegemony within the policy field. Our goal is to explain the trajectory and the dynamics of this process by studying the discourses, the framings, and the political strategies that comprised the hegemonic struggle underlying it.".
- 01GQ7A7KKDQV09H42S68ADQX57 abstract "Consistently not responding to appetitive foods during food Go/ consumption and sometimes even body weight. Here, we review studies that examined the durability of fGNG effects. Previous work has not always found durable effects of fGNG in applied intervention studies, but recent controlled experiments show that a single session of fGNG can influence food choices for at least one week. By reanalyzing data from these controlled experiments, we show that this preference change is related to participants' memory of the trained stimulus-response contingencies. Examining the role of memory processes in fGNG may thus contribute to addressing challenges with creating durable behavior change through fGNG.".
- 01GQ7AASXSEJJBKSCR14GC8ECN abstract "Multiphase flow through permeable rock is critical to several issues facing the world at present. It encompasses contaminant transport and subsequent remediation, geological carbon dioxide capture and sequestration as well as subsurface energy storage. Subsurface flows typically have a low capillary number. This suggests that fluid displacements are controlled by the capillary pressures across fluid interfaces. Understanding displacement patterns therefore relies on being able to predict the capillary pressures that lead to pore-by-pore displacement events. Because drainage is predominantly composed of piston-like displacements, the cylindrical Young-Laplace formulation in pore throats can be used to estimate the capillary pressure resulting in these displacements. Imbibition on the other hand is a more complex process[1]. Capillary pressure models for snap-off and cooperative pore filling events therefore require more complex formulations[2], [3]. However, whether these models are capable of sufficiently describing imbibition in e.g. pore network models (PNMs), remains uncertain. In this work, we develop a workflow to validate capillary pressure imbibition models by using dynamic micro-CT imaging of imbibition in a glass beads pack by Schluter et al.[4]. We use these images to measure the capillary pressures of displacements, and then we compare these to capillary pressure calculations typically used in quasi-static PNMs, on a pore-by-pore basis. A crucial challenge is that, along with the geometry of the pore space, local contact angles are required. We therefore determined image-based contact angles using several methods: conventional geometric[5], thermodynamic[6], force-based[7] and local geometric[7] contact angles. Of these, the latter was used as input in the capillary pressure models since it has a narrower distribution than the other types of contact angles, suggesting it best accounts for the local hinging of contact angles. The (semi-)analytical capillary pressure models investigated here also require that the local geometry be simplified. For this, we used a maximum inscribed sphere[8] PNM and a watershed segmented (Avizo 2020.3 Thermo-Fisher Scientific) PNM. The results from each PNM were compared to assess whether relationships observed were due to influences of the PNM or due to physical processes. Local capillary pressure measurements were derived from the curvatures of the fluid interfaces in the micro-CT images, prior to each displacement event. The analytical models were compared to these measurements. This allows us to pin down the primary causes of errors in simplified multiphase flow models, thereby facilitating their improvement. This improvement has the potential to positively impact carbon dioxide sequestration, contaminant transport, etc.".
- 01GQ7AFCX6DDV96R4CY31B99SM abstract "User profiling is essential to help smokers quit smoking, but filling out a questionnaire is tedious and therefore, a lot of smokers drop out even though this personalisation can help them greatly in their journey to quit smoking. In this project a chatbot is designed that acquires the necessary data for personalisation through games. Combined with smoking event registrations, the application can detect smoking triggers. 12 participants tested the chatbot for 15 d by talking to it and registering their smoking events. Results show that the chatbot reaches the requirements of a social chatbot, gathers for most games good quality data, and detected smoking triggers are accurate, making the chatbot a great alternative for smokers with an interest in games.".
- 01GQ7B0NBBTNZJ9NTS3S0YYKV1 abstract "The positive utility of travel (unrelated to the destination) and travel satisfaction have been discussed in travel literature, but a research gap exists in comparing if and how travel benefits might differ among commuting, shopping, leisure, and undirected trips (those without a destination, undertaken for the purpose of the trip itself). By specifying the varying benefits of each trip type (or determining whether there is a variation), the positive utility of travel can be better understood, potentially identifying strategies for improving travel satisfaction and, in turn, subjective well-being. This paper considers these four trip types (commuting, shopping, leisure, and undirected) by evaluating differences in beneficial aspects of travel (improving physical health, improving mental well-being, enjoying scenery, and social contact), travel satisfaction, and characteristics (mode, distance, duration, frequency) among 1122 daily travel trips using survey data (n = 332) from Flanders, Belgium. Results indicate that, 1. though taken least often, undirected trips are the most important to physical activity, 2. un-directed and leisure trips are most associated with positive utility of travel, and 3. trips to a leisure destination are the most satisfying. This investigation offers information regarding how experienced utility might differ when considering the context of the destination, and how satisfaction with different trips might relate to overall well-being.".
- 01GQ7B5QHGQBVEV8QVF23NB01F abstract "This study is the first to empirically analyze motivations for taking undirected travel (UT) trips, or travel without a destination (as opposed to derived trips) undertaken for the purpose of the trip itself, as the determinants and characteristics are largely unknown. The overall research objective is to explore UT motivations in terms of demographics and trip characteristics, such as mode, frequency, distance, and duration, using survey data from Flanders, Belgium during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown (18 March - 4 May 2020). First, a factor analysis identifies four main motivations for UT: 1. Improving Health and Well-Being, 2. Removing Negative Feelings, 3. Enjoying Scenery, and 4. Out-of-Home Socializing. Following, differences in UT motivations across groups are analyzed with mean-comparisons of demographic characteristics, trip charac-teristics, and attitude and well-being measurements. Findings suggest a clear relationship be-tween UT and physical/mental health. There are stronger motivations for active than motorized UT trips, and stronger motivations associated with use of multiple modes. Longer (distance and duration) and more frequent UT trips increasingly fulfill all motivations. This research provides more evidence for the idea that travel is not always a derived demand for which less is always better, or an ancillary event to other activities, and can offer baseline empirical information on UT from which future studies can grow as well as contribute information about the value of travel.".
- 01GQ7B75ZWGY5Q58DBTQ1B6WEQ abstract "The paper presents a preliminary evaluation of the survey activities undertaken in the Maremma area (Southern Tuscany), oriented to investigate pastoral landscapes of the past. The research is part of the «TRATTO» project, related to the study of transhumance’s paths and pastures in a long-term perspective, from Prehistory to Modern Age. The study area is the southern part of Tuscany, in particular the Maremma district, mainly included in the province of Grosseto. The long-time perspective adopted by the project allows us to verify the continuity of this pastoral phenomenon and its variation over the centuries. This approach involved contributions from archaeological and historical studies analysed through the research perspectives of historical geography. Within a multi-disciplinary approach, the project involves the collection, the management and the analysis of large amounts of data from different types of sources. In this contribution we discuss problems and potentialities to collect information about pastoralism in field activities. How we can detect this kind of ephemeral traces in the materiality of landscape? Through surface survey we preliminary critically assess archaeological evidence of transhumance. Methodological questions arise on the individuation and evaluation of traces left by longue durée practices occurred in agricultural and pastoral spaces.".
- 01GQ7BE1XJ9CZQCX1546Q5FYQG abstract "Introduction: Little is known about the consequences of deranged chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) parameters on kidney allograft function in children. We examined a relationship between these parameters over time and allograft outcome. Methods: This registry study from the Cooperative European Paediatric Renal Transplant Initiative (CERTAIN) collected data at baseline, months 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 after transplant; and every 6 months thereafter up to 5 years. Survival analysis for a composite end point of graft loss or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) #30 ml/min per 1.73 m2 or a $50% decline from eGFR at month 1 posttransplant was performed. Associations of parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphate, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) with allograft outcome were investigated using conventional stratified Cox proportional hazards models and further verified with marginal structural models with time-varying covariates. Results: We report on 1210 patients (61% boys) from 16 European countries. The composite end point was reached in 250 grafts (21%), of which 11 (4%) were allograft losses. In the conventional Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for potential confounders, only hyperparathyroidism (hazard ratio [HR], 2.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.82-4.74) and hyperphosphatemia (HR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.28-2.92) were associated with the composite end point. Marginal structural models showed similar results for hyperparathyroidism (HR, 2.74; 95% CI, 1.71-4.38), whereas hyperphosphatemia was no longer significant (HR, 1.35; 95% CI, 0.87- 2.09), suggesting that its association with graft dysfunction can be ascribed to a decline in eGFR. Conclusion: Hyperparathyroidism is a potential independent risk factor for allograft dysfunction in children.".
- 01GQ7BF4184VT74ECSFCFE0TQ5 abstract "New Cinema History broadened film studies by emphasising the complexity of cinema as a multifaceted phenomenon that includes the socio-economic context in which films were made, circulated, shown and received. As part of the digital turn, the discipline adopted computational methods and created quantitative research data to research this socio-economic context at scale. However, not all datasets created in this context adhere to FAIR principles, decreasing their reusability. By reconciling 14 cinema-related datasets, Cinema Belgica facilitates research into the history of Belgian cinema. This research paper documents and critically reflects on the choices made when selecting, modelling and reconciling information for the Cinema Belgica database.".
- 01GQ7BP75EF0RYSTECGAR65QAN abstract "Methods to characterize the flow behavior of molten chocolate have been set by International Confectionery Association (ICA) in 2000; however, there is no consensus on an accurate method and it is often followed by misinterpretation of the results. This issue is also influenced by flow phenomena generally recurring in yield-stress materials, such as transient effects, gap size effects, apparent wall slip, and edge fracture. The state of the art in the field of rheology allows for more precise techniques to circumvent such rheometric artefacts. Nevertheless, a combined approach to accurately determine the flow properties of different types of molten chocolate targeting the prevention of all possible flow artefacts is still not found in the literature. In this paper, two technologically distinct molten dark chocolates are employed on different combinations of flow curve protocols, measuring geometries and viscosity functions to accurately determine their flow properties. Based on the evaluation, a wider shear rate range ((gamma)over dot = 0.01-100 s(-1)) with sufficient measurement time per shear rate (> 120 s) is recommended for an accurate flow curve protocol, combined with a roughened surface geometry with radii ratio <1.10. Four-parameter mathematical models, such as the Windhab model or a modified Herschel-Bulkley model, have been proven to be more accurate in further acquiring important flow parameters, but special attention should be given to the physical meaning of some parameters. A comparison between experimental flow curve data, model-fitted data and steady-state data gained from a constant shear rate test confirmed the suitability of these recommendations for both chocolates. The proposed alternative method allows for accurate measurements at lower shear rates, which significantly improves the accuracy to obtain important parameters such as yield stress as well as detecting and preventing rheometric artefacts.".
- 01GQ7BQYMK6JD5V85C4RBDT2DD abstract "Primary hyperoxaluria (PH) is an inherited disorder that results from the overproduction of endogenous oxalate, leading to recurrent kidney stones, nephrocalcinosis and eventually kidney failure; the subsequent storage of oxalate can cause life-threatening systemic disease. Diagnosis of PH is often delayed or missed owing to its rarity, variable clinical expression and other diagnostic challenges. Management of patients with PH and kidney failure is also extremely challenging. However, in the past few years, several new developments, including new outcome data from patients with infantile oxalosis, from transplanted patients with type 1 PH (PH1) and from patients with the rarer PH types 2 and 3, have emerged. In addition, two promising therapies based on RNA interference have been introduced. These developments warrant an update of existing guidelines on PH, based on new evidence and on a broad consensus. In response to this need, a consensus development core group, comprising (paediatric) nephrologists, (paediatric) urologists, biochemists and geneticists from OxalEurope and the European Rare Kidney Disease Reference Network (ERKNet), formulated and graded statements relating to the management of PH on the basis of existing evidence. Consensus was reached following review of the recommendations by representatives of OxalEurope, ESPN, ERKNet and ERA, resulting in 48 practical statements relating to the diagnosis and management of PH, including consideration of conventional therapy (conservative therapy, dialysis and transplantation), new therapies and recommendations for patient follow-up.".
- 01GQ7BT9B7TN8MHXSA0CEQENAG abstract "Fournir des images du sous-sol à partir d'ensembles de données terrestres est au cœur du travail du géophysicien. De multiples approches ont été appliquées pour s'attaquer à cette tâche. La plupart du temps, cette tâche est réalisée dans un cadre déterministe, ce qui signifie que pour un ensemble de données déterminé, un modèle unique est fourni pour expliquer les données. Cependant, ces approches déterministes ne permettent pas de fournir des estimations raisonnables de l'incertitude, qui tiennent compte de la non-unicité de la solution, du bruit dans les données et des erreurs de modélisation. Pour fournir des modèles précis et exacts du sous-sol tout en tenant compte de l'incertitude, les géophysiciens utilisent des approches probabilistes. Ces approches sont capables d'échantillonner l'ensemble des modèles a priori possibles (le prior) afin d'extraire les modèles qui peuvent raisonnablement expliquer l'ensemble des données (le posterior). De telles approches, bien que supérieures en termes de fiabilité des résultats, sont rarement appliquées en pratique en raison de leurs importantes exigences en termes de temps de calcul. Dans ce manuscrit, l'objectif est de proposer un nouveau processus bayésien pour interpréter ces données géophysiques. Ce nouveau système, appelé Bayesian Evidential Learning, promet de permettre une estimation rapide, précise et exacte de l'incertitude. Ce processus est appliqué et adapté aux jeux de données géophysiques 1D (BEL1D). Ce système présente plusieurs avantages par rapport aux approches probabilistes classiques : il permet des calculs rapides grâce au nombre limité d'exécutions nécessaires, et donne un aperçu de la sensibilité de l'expérience et de la validité de l'antériorité. De plus, il bénéficie de sa construction en tant qu'algorithme de Machine Learning, conduisant à la construction de modèles d'incertitude quasi-instantanés.".
- 01GQ7BT9B7TN8MHXSA0CEQENAG abstract "Het maken van beelden van de ondergrond op basis van grondgegevens is essentieel voor het werk van de geofysicus. Er zijn verschillende manieren om deze taak uit te voeren. Meestal wordt deze taak binnen een deterministisch kader uitgevoerd, wat betekent dat voor een bepaalde dataset één enkel model wordt verstrekt om de gegevens te verklaren. Deze deterministische benaderingen zijn echter niet geschikt om redelijke onzekerheidsanalyses te maken, die rekening houden met gegevensruis, modeleringsfouten, enz. Om precieze en nauwkeurige modellen van de ondergrond te berekenen, samen met onzekerheid, gebruiken geofysici probabilistische methoden. Die benaderingen mogen het ensemble van alle mogelijke modellen (de prior) bemonsteren om er modellen uit te halen die de datasets redelijkerwijs kunnen verklaren (de posterior). Deze benaderingen, hoewel superieur door de betrouwbaarheid van hun resultaten, worden in praktijk bijna nooit toegepast omdat ze veel computerwerk vergen. In dit manuscript wordt een nieuw Bayesiaans raamwerk voorgesteld om die geofysische gegevenssets te interpreteren. Aan de hand van dit nieuwe systeem, genaamd Bayesian Evidential Learning, kan de onzekerheid snel, nauwkeurig en accuraat worden ingeschat. Dit kader wordt toegepast en aangepast voor 1D geofysische gegevenssets (BEL1D). Het nieuwe en aangepaste raamwerk biedt verschillende voordelen in vergelijking met klassieke probabilistische strategieën: van snelle berekeningen door het beperkte aantal forward runs die nodig zijn, tot inzicht in de sensitiviteit van het experiment en de validiteit van de prior. Bovendien profiteert het van zijn constructie als Machine Learning-algoritme, wat leidt tot quasi-onmiddellijk modellenren van onzekerheid.".
- 01GQ7BT9B7TN8MHXSA0CEQENAG abstract "Providing images of the subsurface from ground-based datasets is at the heart of the geophysicist's work. Multiple approaches have been applied to tackle this task. Most of the time, this task is performed in a deterministic framework, meaning that for a given dataset, a single model is provided to explain the data. However, those deterministic approaches lack the ability to provide reasonable uncertainty estimations, that take into account the non-unicity of the solution, noise in the data and modelling error. To provide precise and accurate models of the subsurface along with uncertainty, geophysicists use probabilistic approaches. Those approaches are able to sample the ensemble of a priori possible models (the prior) in order to extract models that can reasonably explain the datasets (the posterior). Such approaches, even though superior in terms of the reliability of their results, are rarely applied in practice due to their significant computational requirements. In this manuscript, the aim is to propose a new Bayesian framework to interpret those geophysical datasets. This new framework, called Bayesian Evidential Learning, promises to enable a fast, precise and accurate estimation of the uncertainty. This framework is applied and adapted for 1D geophysical datasets (BEL1D). The new and adapted framework presents several advantages when compared to classical probabilistic approaches: from fast computations due to the limited number of forward runs needed, to providing insight about the experiment sensitivity and the validity of the prior. Moreover, it benefits from its construction as a Machine Learning algorithm, leading to quasi-instantaneous models of uncertainty.".
- 01GQ7BTMP416SQ99M7WANEQ79C abstract "Background Randomized controlled trials in pediatric kidney transplantation are hampered by low incidence and prevalence of kidney failure in children. Real-World Data from patient registries could facilitate the conduct of clinical trials by substituting a control cohort. However, the emulation of a control cohort by registry data in pediatric kidney transplantation has not been investigated so far. Methods In this multicenter comparative analysis, we emulated the control cohort (n = 54) of an RCT in pediatric kidney transplant patients (CRADLE trial; ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01544491) with data derived from the Cooperative European Paediatric Renal Transplant Initiative (CERTAIN) registry, using the same inclusion and exclusion criteria (CERTAIN cohort, n = 554). Results Most baseline patient and transplant characteristics were well comparable between both cohorts. At year 1 posttransplant, a composite efficacy failure end point comprising biopsy-proven acute rejection, graft loss or death (5.8%+/- 3.3% vs. 7.5%+/- 1.1%, P = 0.33), and kidney function (72.5 +/- 24.9 vs. 77.3 +/- 24.2 mL/min/1.73 m(2) P = 0.19) did not differ significantly between CRADLE and CERTAIN. Furthermore, the incidence and severity of BPAR (5.6% vs. 7.8%), the degree of proteinuria (20.2 +/- 13.9 vs. 30.6 +/- 58.4 g/mol, P = 0.15), and the key safety parameters such as occurrence of urinary tract infections (24.1% vs. 15.5%, P = 0.10) were well comparable. Conclusions In conclusion, usage of Real-World Data from patient registries such as CERTAIN to emulate the control cohort of an RCT is feasible and could facilitate the conduct of clinical trials in pediatric kidney transplantation.".
- 01GQ7BWNM05KPP2VDV2JVHMYMB abstract "L’articolo recensisce e discute le ragioni, i contenuti e le prospettive storiografiche di tre volumi recentemente pubblicati su piante, boschi e paesaggi agrari e forestali della Penisola italiana nel basso Medioevo e nella prima età moderna. Con approcci diversi, i tre volumi propongono con consapevolezza il problema del rapporto fra l’uomo e l’ambiente, fra economia ed ecologia, fra risorse e produzione come chiave interpretativa unitaria della storia delle campagne italiane e delle società che le abitarono.".
- 01GQ7BWNM05KPP2VDV2JVHMYMB abstract "The article analyses the motivations, the contents and the historiographical perspectives of three recently published volumes about trees, woods and rural landscape in the late medieval and early modern Italy. Each volume intentionally places at the centre of its analysis the relation between man and environment, economy and ecology, resources and production: throughout different approach this relation is suggested as the key factor to re-interpret the rural history of preindustrial Italy.".
- 01GQ7DK773K21NDA59A1D8C2D1 abstract "Global pressure on the continued large-scale use of chemical fungicides has made way for the era of agro-bioloicals. Immense potential lies in the discovery and validation of a potent and resilient biocontrol organisms to combat agricultural pests. Yet, the implementation is hampered by fluctuant efficiency due to the poor survival of these organisms in an agro-ecosystem. Fusarium graminearum (Fg), the most potent species in the Fusarium head blight disease complex in wheat is devastating to cereal crops worldwide. It decreases the grain yield and causes mycotoxin contamination, rendering the harvest worthless at heavy infestations. In this study whole ear microbiomes were extracted from 3 different wheat (Triticum eastivum) and 1 spelt (Triticum spelta) cultivars in the field. These microbiomes were inoculated on wheat spikes in a detached spike assay through spray application, followed by Fg spray inoculation. This infection cycle was repeated 4 times, in parallel lines for the 4 unique starting points. Every time selecting, isolating and re-applying the microbiome from the least infected spikelets from previous cycles onto the next. After 4 cycles, 94 single cell isolates were obtained of the best preforming line. All 94 isolates were tested as biocontrol agent against Fg in a detached leaf infection assay. This novel method provided several potential candidates for in planta control of Fg.".
- 01GQ7FQ9QMNSPBFC8PDJJ9YV4Q abstract "This paper evaluates the valorization potential of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) fibers produced on HM-contaminated soil as a safe feedstock for the textile industry. The chosen strategy was phytoattenuation, which combines the progressive soil quality improvement of contaminated land using phytoremediation techniques with the production of safe non-food biomass. A field experiment was set up with two hemp cultivars on a site contaminated with Cd, Pb, and Zn and on a nearby site containing clean soil as a control. Stem height and diameter were analyzed, as well as stem and fiber yield and the HM concentrations in the fibers, which were compared to legal safety standards and toxicity thresholds used in the textile industry. The hemp cultivar Carmagnola Selected (CS) had a significantly higher stem and bigger stem diameter compared to cultivar USO 31 on both sites. Stem yields showed a decrease of 30% and 50%, respectively, for both hemp cultivars grown on the contaminated site. However, the stem yield of CS growing on the contaminated site was similar to the stem yield of USO 31 growing on the control site, indicating that hemp cultivation on contaminated soil can be economically viable. Total and extractable Cd, Pb, and Zn fiber concentrations were far below the toxicity standards for textile production purposes. These results are promising in terms of the potential valorization of contaminated land with hemp cultivation and the development of a non-food value chain within a phytoattenuation strategy.".
- 01GQ7FZQA5CNWT3G112M7XKJ9F abstract "This study reports the reliability of the juvenile idiopathic arthritis magnetic resonance imaging scoring system (JAMRIS-SIJ). The study comprised of eight raters-two rheumatologists and six radiologists-and 30 coronal T1 and Short-Tau Inversion Recovery (STIR) MRI scans of patients with enthesitis-related juvenile spondylarthritis. The median age of patients was 15 years with a mean disease duration of 5 years and 22 (73.3%) of the sample were boys. The inter-rater agreement of scores for each of the JAMRIS-SIJ items was calculated using a two-way random effect, absolute agreement, and single rater intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC 2.1). The ICC was interpreted together with kurtosis, since the ICC is also affected by the distribution of scores in the sample. The eight-rater, single measure inter-rater ICC (and kurtosis) values for JAMRIS-SIJ inflammation and damage components were the following: bone marrow edema (BME), 0.76 (1.2); joint space inflammation, 0.60 (1.8); capsulitis, 0.58 (9.2); enthesitis, 0.20 (0.1); ankylosis, 0.89 (35); sclerosis, 0.53 (4.6); erosion, 0.50 (6.5); fat lesion, 0.40 (21); backfill, 0.38 (38). The inter-rater reliability for BME and ankylosis scores was good and met the a priori set ICC threshold, whereas for the other items it was variable and below the selected threshold. Future directives should focus on refinement of the scores, definitions, and methods of interpretation prior to validation of the JAMRIS-SIJ through the assessment of its measurement properties.".
- 01GQ7H8K0HPESR7Y9C75BEJA2M abstract "Splicing is a fundamental process in pre-mRNA maturation. Whereas alternative splicing (AS) enriches the diversity of the proteome, its aberrant regulation can drive oncogenesis. So far, most attention has been given to spliceosome mutations (SMs) in the context of splicing dysregulation in hematologic diseases. However, in recent years, post-translational modifications (PTMs) and transcriptional alterations of splicing factors (SFs), just as epigenetic signatures, have all been shown to contribute to global splicing dysregulation as well. In addition, the contribution of aberrant splicing to the neoantigen repertoire of cancers has been recognized. With the pressing need for novel therapeutics to combat blood cancers, this article provides an overview of emerging mechanisms that contribute to aberrant splicing, as well as their clinical potential.".
- 01GQ7HJCPHCQRHTQNX08TF3AY9 abstract "The use of speech as a digital biomarker to detect stress levels is increasingly gaining attention. Yet, heterogeneous effects of stress on specific acoustic speech features have been observed, possibly due to previous studies’ use of different stress labels/categories and the lack of solid stress induction paradigms or validation of experienced stress. Here, we deployed a controlled, within-subject psychosocial stress induction experiment in which participants received both neutral (control condition) and negative (negative condition) comparative feedback after solving a challenging cognitive task. This study is the first to use a (non-actor) within-participant design that verifies a successful stress induction using both self-report (i.e., decreased reported valence) and physiological measures (i.e., increased heart rate acceleration using event-related cardiac responses during feedback exposure). Analyses of acoustic speech features showed a significant increase in Fundamental Frequency (F0) and Harmonics-to-Noise Ratio (HNR), and a significant decrease in shimmer during the negative feedback condition. Our results using read-out-loud speech comply with earlier research, yet we are the first to validate these results in a well-controlled but ecologically-valid setting to guarantee the generalization of our findings to real-life settings. Further research should aim to replicate these results in a free speech setting to test the robustness of our findings for real-world settings and should include semantics to also take into account what you say and not only how you say it.".
- 01GQ7HY827039REKYYQVJ41TTN abstract "RNA interference (RNAi)-based pest control is viewed as a safe and effective method for insect pest control. However, the stability and efficient cellular delivery of the double stranded RNA (dsRNA) active molecule remains cru- cial to its success in pest control. Among the different approaches that have been proposed to improve dsRNA delivery in insects, the use of nano-carriers, engineered viruses and engineered microbes have been successfully employed in proof of-concept studies. This review focuses on engineering approaches that have been successfully employed to modify insect viruses and different microbes for dsRNA production and delivery in insects. First, the different viral vector systems based on insect RNA and DNA viruses for dsRNA delivery are discussed. Second, a comprehensive overview of different microbe-based (bacteria, fungi, microalgae) dsRNA production and delivery systems that have been developed till date are presented. Finally, future perspectives on the development of other delivery systems with potential in the context of insect pest control are provided. Overall, this review is expected to stimulate awareness, interest, insight and research into prom- ising sources of biotechnologically interesting viruses and microbes for protecting agriculture and human health against insect pests.".
- 01GQ7J2Y8XE5SDMC9N4QET7GKZ abstract "As most studies focus on the outcomes of multiculturalism, assimilation and colourblindness (MAC) for students, little is known about why schools vary in the diversity approaches that they adopt and the role of the teacher in this process. This study explores how teachers implement MAC diversity approaches and what drives them in doing so. Based on a cluster analysis of 38 schools, three extreme cases were selected that either valued (multiculturalism), rejected (assimilation) or ignored (colourblindness) ethnic diversity. In these schools observations and in-depth interviews were conducted with 39 teachers, 23 students and 3 headteachers. Our results indicate that teachers varied in their implementation of MAC diversity approaches according to four diversity domains: 1) multilingualism, 2) religious diversity, 3) ethnic discrimination and 4) diversity curriculum. Teachers' beliefs and attitudes (individual-level) and their preconditions for teaching (micro-level) appeared as the most important motivators for adopting a particular diversity approach.".
- 01GQ7J3NDRVXGGZ09MH3X6Z7KJ abstract "We demonstrate a ball-lens based optical interface for coupling between a single mode fiber and a silicon grating coupler from the back side of a photonic integrated circuit (PIC). This allows compact packaging solutions and keeps the PIC top side accessible, e.g. for interacting with the environment in case of sensing applications. Different configurations employing 300 mu m diameter ball lenses made of both LASF-35 glass and sapphire were investigated. Without any modifications to the grating coupler, the peak coupling efficiency (for TE polarization and operating wavelength around 1550 nm) was experimentally found to be only between 1.4 dB and 2.2 dB lower when interfacing with a ball lens from the back side compared to coupling from the top side using a cleaved fiber. Furthermore, no noticeable change in the bandwidth was found. The potential of the ball lens interface was proven by realizing a compact (diameter less than 1.5 mm) optical temperature sensor probe based on a phased shifted silicon photonic Bragg grating structure on a PIC. The probe consisted of a single mode fiber which was terminated with a 1.25 mm ceramic ferrule onto which a ball lens holder and a PIC was glued. The holder was realized in fused silica glass with a femtosecond laser direct-write technology and served to accurately position the ball lens with respect to the fiber and PIC. The assembly allowed to cleanly read out the Bragg grating spectrum in reflection, using a single fiber interface and was compatible with commercial interrogator systems. A Bragg wavelength shift of 73 pm/degrees C was found in a tested temperature range between 15 degrees C and 60 degrees C.".
- 01GQ7J5A10VWAEX7PBTBHVWB5N abstract "A deep understanding of the composition of the HIV-1 reservoir is necessary for the development of targeted therapies and the evaluation of curative efforts. However, current near full-length (NFL) HIV-1 proviral genome sequencing assays are based on labor-intensive and costly principles of repeated PCRs at limiting dilution, restricting their scalability. To address this, we developed a high-throughput, long-read sequencing assay called HIV-PULSE (HIV Proviral UMI-mediated Long-read Sequencing). This assay uses unique molecular identifiers (UMIs) to tag individual HIV-1 genomes, allowing for the omission of the limiting dilution step and enabling long-range PCR amplification of many NFL genomes in a single PCR reaction, while simultaneously overcoming poor single-read accuracy. We optimized the assay using HIV-infected cell lines and then applied it to blood samples from 18 individuals living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy, yielding a total of 1,308 distinct HIV-1 genomes. Benchmarking against the widely applied Full-Length Individual Proviral Sequencing assay revealed similar sensitivity (11% vs 18%) and overall good concordance, though at a significantly higher throughput. In conclusion, HIV-PULSE is a cost-efficient and scalable assay that allows for the characterization of the HIV-1 proviral landscape, making it an attractive method to study the HIV-1 reservoir composition and dynamics.".
- 01GQ7KK3AP817E95H64SAQW089 abstract "During recent decades, the notion of transparency has become a guiding framework in social work policy and practice. Transparency is often approached in this context as a managerial notion. In this article, we approach transparency as a relational notion, a key attitude in social work. Relation transparency is a prerequisite for achieving democratic partnership with service users and their family and social network. Transparency as a key attitude of the social worker is often taken for granted, both by practitioners and policymakers. In the first face of our action research, we found that the way in which transparency is realised in the everyday practice of social work is a major challenge. After discussing the shift from a managerial to a relational notion of transparency, we analyse the various polarities social workers have to deal with in order to develop a transparent practice vis-à-vis service users. The question is whether we repeatedly fall into the trap of thinking that these dilemmas can be resolved instead of looking for ways to deal with them in daily practice without losing the fundamental values and ethical standards that social work represents.".
- 01GQ7KSBBRD048ZNHP6A18ZVF8 abstract "In 2020 the world was captivated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Current scientific evidence suggests an interaction of SARS-CoV-2 and the human immune system. Multiple cases were reported of patients with COVID-19 presenting with encephalopathy, confusion or agitation, stroke, and other neurologic symptoms. We present a case of a 40-year-old man diagnosed with Susac syndrome after COVID-19, presenting with acute sensorineural hearing loss, encephalopathy, a splenial "snowball-like" lesion, and branch retinal artery occlusions with distal arterial wall hyperintensity. Although the pathophysiology of Susac syndrome remains unclear, this case is in line with the ongoing debate about the influence of SARS-CoV-2 on the human immune system. Corticosteroid treatment was initiated, followed by two treatments with rituximab, with clinical improvement of the symptomatology. Maintenance treatment currently consists of mycophenolic acid (MPA). Future research will need to focus on the underlying mechanisms for COVID-19-associated (autoimmune) complications.".
- 01GQ7KVZ2VWEZYTVJGAZ7PQ637 abstract "The aim of this multi-centred, cohort, prospective, observational study was to evaluate the clinical application of the canine osteoarthritis staging tool (COAST), in dogs affected by osteoarthritis (OA). In all dogs, a COAST stage was obtained based on the Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD) score and a complete orthopaedic and radiographic examination. The severity of OA (COAST stage) was scored as 1 (preclinical), 2 (mild), 3 (moderate), and 4 (severe). These scores were compared with the overall subjective opinion of experienced orthopaedic surgeons who examined the dogs (Clinical Opinion). Data were analysed with descriptive statistic, multiple regression analysis, chi-square and Bland-Altman tests (P < 0.05). In total, 362 evaluations were performed in 202 dogs. Clinical Opinion had a greater proportion of stage 1 and 2 cases compared to COAST (P < 0.0001). The proportion of stage 4 cases was higher in COAST compared to Clinical Opinion (P < 0.0001). The proportions of Stage 3 cases were similar in the two evaluation systems. COAST had a strong correlation (r = 0.79; P < 0.01) with Clinical Opinion. Overall, the two evaluation systems exhibited strong agreement (mean bias 0.51). Stages 1 and 2 had weaker agreement (mean bias 1.04 and 0.75, respectively), than stage 3 and stage 4 (mean bias 0.46 and 0.0, respectively).".
- 01GQ7KZ5TNZST711KG83FYW3MS abstract "Climate change (CC) has an impact on degradation mechanisms in building envelopes. A climate-based analysis (only using climate variables) or a response-based analysis (based on hygrothermal simulation results) can be performed to assess the CC impact over a large region. Only the latter accounts for building parameters (e.g. material properties, wall composition ...), which is more reliable, though at a high computational cost and not state-of-the-art. It remains unclear whether a climate-based analysis is suitable to study the CC impact on building envelopes. Therefore, we compared a climate-based and response-based analysis by means of 34.560 hygrothermal simulations across Europe and the Mediterranean, including a high number of building parameter variations (i.e. 'cases'). In the north of Europe (Bodo), freeze-thaw damage and wood decay are projected to increase (81% and 68% of the cases, respectively). In the mid-latitudes of Europe (Berlin, Brussels, Milan, and Madrid), there is a decrease in freeze-thaw damage in 66%-78% of the cases. Mould growth and wood decay tend to increase in up to 51% of the cases in Brussels, and decrease in halve of the cases in Madrid. In Cairo, Bouarfa, Valencia, and Athens, the degradation risks remain small. Further, there is a weak Spearman rank correlation (maximum 0.46) between the climate-based and response-based CC impact. The error goes up to 100% when using a climate-based analysis. Moreover, the climate-based analysis is unable to represent the spread of the CC impact between different building parameter variations. The climate-based analysis is only suitable as first assessment.".
- 01GQ7M73VVHZZET1VAVKFB0K7Q abstract "European livestock systems are characterised by high meat production to accommodate high consumer demands and global prices. The production of meat, especially meat from highly intensive livestock farming, requires many resources and is inconsistent with sustainability and climate objectives. Unsustainable livestock production heavily impacts regulatory and supporting ecosystem services, which makes the meat production system a key driver of global environmental change. Lowering consumers' demand for meat could improve the sustainability of agricultural ecosystems. To realize this transition, meat can be substituted with meat imitating plant-based alternatives; production of these substitutes has a lower carbon footprint, needs less land and uses less water compared to regular meat production. Retailers can facilitate this shift by redesigning their stores to nudge consumers towards these substitutes. The goal of this study was to analyse whether nudging techniques can increase sales of plant-based meat substitutes in a supermarket environment. We combined two nudging tech-niques into one intervention: (1) adding meat substitutes in the butchery section, (2) and placing them next to their equivalent meat products. Results show a significant increase of 67% in meat substitute sales when the nudging intervention was present whereas sales in the control supermarkets (without nudging intervention) did not change during the intervention period. Once the intervention was removed, sales dropped again. Future research should investigate which factors influence the transition from short-term nudging effects towards long-term behaviour change. We discuss the role of nudging as a strategy to reduce negative impacts of the livestock production systems on ecosystem services.".
- 01GQ7M7EN73HGRADAJS4TR9C8Q abstract "Osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent condition in dogs, causing a substantial reduction in quality of life and welfare of the animals. Current disease management focusses on pain relief but does not stop the progression of the disease. Therefore, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could offer a promising disease modifying alternative. However, little is known about the behavior and the mode of action of MSCs following their administration. In the current case report, (99m)Technetium labelled xenogeneic equine peripheral blood-derived MSCs were intravenously injected in a 9 year old dog suffering from a natural occurring cranial cruciate ligament rupture. The biodistribution of the MSCs was evaluated during a 6-h follow-up period, using a full body scintigraphy imaging technique. No clinical abnormalities or ectopic tissue formations were detected throughout the study. A radiopharmaceutical uptake was present in the liver, heart, lung, spleen, kidneys and bladder of the dog. Furthermore, homing of the radiolabelled MSCs to the injured joint was observed, with 40.61 % higher uptake in the affected joint in comparison with the healthy contralateral joint. Finally, a local radioactive hotspot was seen at a part of the tail of the dog that had been injured recently. The current study is the first to confirm the homing of xenogeneic MSCs to a naturally occurring joint lesion after IV administration.".
- 01GQ7MF60QJ2R51N3RAQBE08ZJ abstract "Injuries to equine tendons and ligaments are career-compromising, causing reduced performance and premature retirement. Promising treatment alternatives have been investigated in the field of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In this study, the tissue adherence and protein expression of tenogenic primed mesenchymal stem cells (tpMSCs) after administration to ex vivo tendon and ligament explants is investigated. First, collagen type I (COL I) and smooth muscle actin (SMA) expression was assessed in cytospins prepared from native MSCs and tpMSCs. Second, equine superficial digital flexor tendon and suspensory ligament explants were cultivated, and a lesion was treated with both cell types. Subsequently, cell adhesion to the explants and the amount of COL I and SMA positive cells was evaluated. The cytospins revealed a significantly higher COL I and lower SMA expression in tpMSCs compared to native MSCs. In the explants, tpMSCs showed a significantly higher tendon and ligament adherence. Furthermore, a significantly higher percentage of COL I positive and a lower percentage of SMA positive cells were observed in the lesions treated with tpMSCs. The results of these explant co-cultures may demonstrate at least a part of the mechanism of action and functional properties of tpMSCs in restoring function to tendons and ligaments.".
- 01GQ7MWXNGHGMFM4TESM6T9AQZ abstract "Cuba is known for its rich cultural heritage, consisting of monumental and domestic architecture. Several sites are recognized UNESCO world heritage, e.g. the historic centre of Old Havana and Camagüey. However, major parts of the built environment are in a poor state due to moisture-related problems. These problems lead to degradation processes in building components, such as biological growth, fungal decay, and salt efflorescence. Further, it remains uncertain how climate change will impact the degradation risks. Conservation strategies accounting for climate change are highly needed, but remain absent. Therefore, we assessed the impact of climate change on degradation processes in Cuban building envelopes. This paper presents the results of hygrothermal simulations on wall assemblies in Havana, Camagüey, Santiago De Cuba, and La Fe. A range of parameter variations are included for three scenarios of projected greenhouse gas emissions. Wall assemblies with different characteristics, e.g. location, material properties, exposure coefficients etc., behave all in a different way. Therefore, the range of the climate change impact for individual degradation risks is quite wide. The biological and fungal growth in building components is likely to increase due to rising temperatures, and high moisture loads. The change in salt crystallization cycles depends on the type of salt (hydrated or non-hydrated salt). Moreover, the critical wall orientation, i.e. the wall orientation with the highest degradation risks, remains constant over the 21st century. Yet, the critical orientation is not the same for different damage risks. To conclude, climate change has an important impact on the degradation risks in historical buildings in Cuba. Henceforth, the climate change impact can be included in practical conservation strategies.".
- 01GQ7MXB7BSEFD4MTV80C7EVCF abstract "This study examines the impact of public subsidies, and specifically, Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards on university spinoff companies. Using unique data for a population of University of California spinoffs, we find pronounced differences between companies commercializing digital technologies (software and hard-ware), and those that focus on other product spaces. For digital spinoffs, receiving an SBIR award has a negative impact on raising venture capital and no impact on IPOs, exits or first sales. Conversely, for non-digital firms (e. g., biotechnology, energy), receiving an SBIR award has a positive effect on raising venture capital and per-formance outcomes. We reason that digital technologies are subject to faster cycle times and higher market uncertainty, relative to technological uncertainty. Digital firms may therefore benefit less from subsidies designed to support technology development, and private investors may view the need of digital companies to obtain such subsidies as a negative certification. Our findings inform policy by suggesting that the industrial domain may be an important boundary condition for the effectiveness of SBIR-type subsidies for university spinoffs.".
- 01GQ7MXNXG9ZY2B66KEJ2Y4GFY abstract "This paper discusses how, starting from Blaise Pascal's Wager about God, in his later teaching Lacan rearticulates his Name-of-the-Father concept. Building on a discussion of Lacan's (1963) single seminar session on the Names-of-the-Father and his 1968-1969 discussion of Pascal's Wager in Seminar XVI, the author examines what this changing conception implies for the Lacanian approach of psychosis. It is argued that - contrary to what Lacan suggests in the nineteen fifties - within these works from the sixties the Name-of-the-Father no longer refers to a privileged signifier, but to an act of faith concerning the virtuousness of the Other. This act of faith functions as a guarantee for the articulation of the subject, separates the subject from what Lacan calls "object a", and establishes a positive expectant relation with the Other. The strength of Lacan's revised conception is that it opens new perspectives on the psychoanalytic treatment of psychosis.".
- 01GQ7N78GD0HRVPCMCDD3JBRQY abstract "Mushrooms play an important role in the maintenance of ecosystem processes and delivering ecosystem services, including food supply. They are also an important source of income for many people worldwide. Thus, under-standing which environmental factors influence mushroom productivity is a high practical and scientific priority. We monitored the production of mushrooms in temperate mixed deciduous forest in Bialowieza Primeval Forest in eastern Poland for two yielding seasons. The research plots were set under similar environmental conditions (topography, geology, soil type) but differed by tree species composition and tree species richness. The main factor explaining mushroom production (close to 35% of the variation explained by the model) was the species richness of mushrooms. In turn, the species richness of mushrooms was mainly explained by soil properties (pH and C/N ratio) and stand characteristics (including tree species richness and wood increment) for ectomycor-rhizal mushrooms and by soil pH for saprotrophic mushrooms. Higher precipitation in 2021 resulted in higher mushroom production than in 2020, while low levels of precipitation in 2020 resulted in stronger effect of ambient temperature. The differences in mushroom yield between years varied highly among plots. They were explained by stand characteristics, and in the case of saprotrophic mushrooms by tree richness and their own species richness. Our results suggest that promoting mushroom species richness is fundamental for increasing mushroom yield and should be taken into account in forest management.".
- 01GQ7P6YXBWY09AXTF8N2AW601 abstract "Moisture is a major agent of material degradation in building facades. The long-term degradation risks of building components are often evaluated by means of hygrothermal simulations for both new constructions as well as renovation. Due to the high computation load of these simulations, a Moisture Reference Year (MRY) (i.e. one year representing the moisture stress on the façade) is often used instead of simulating the long-term climate itself. In the past, a number of methods were developed to select MRYs, but they do not perform equally well for different wall types, materials, damage mechanisms etc. Today, a guideline to select an MRY method that is suitable for a specific study does not exist. Therefore, we developed a framework to select proper climate data for hygrothermal simulations. This paper presents the 5 levels of the framework, and its application on solid masonry walls in Brussels. The 5 levels account for the available resources, but result in a different level of detail. The optimal approach, yet computationally expensive, remains to simulate the long-term climate. Second best, an MRY is selected from one long-term simulation of a reference case, and that MRY is used in the remaining simulations. On the other hand, the ‘one-fits-all’ MRY needs the lowest computational requirements, but it is uncertain whether the ‘one-fits-all’ MRY actually represents the long-term moisture stress on the building. To conclude, the framework was successfully tested on solid masonry walls with and without interior insulation in Brussels.".
- 01GQ7PTMJEX99JYV44J13J8FCK abstract "Various studies have shown that medical professionals are prone to follow the incorrect suggestions offered by algorithms, especially when they have limited informational inputs to interrogate and interpret such suggestions and when they have an attitude of relying on them. We examine the effect of correct and incorrect algorithmic suggestions on the diagnosis performance of radiologists when 1) they have no, partial, and extensive informational inputs for explaining the suggestions (study 1) and 2) they are primed to hold a positive, negative, ambivalent, or neutral attitude towards AI (study 2). Our analysis of 2760 decisions made by 92 radiologists conducting 15 mammography examinations show that radiologists' diagnoses follow both incorrect and correct suggestions, despite variations in the explainability inputs and attitudinal priming interventions. We identify and explain various pathways through which radiologists navigate through the decision process and arrive at correct or incorrect decisions. Overall, the findings of both studies show the limited effect of using explainability inputs and attitudinal priming for overcoming the unintended influence of (incorrect) algorithmic suggestions.".
- 01GQ7QHXC1ZDR81YGXV48JAXJR abstract "Background We explored perceptions and preferences regarding the conversion of in-person to virtual conferences as necessitated by travel and in-person meeting restrictions. Methods A 16-question online survey to assess preferences regarding virtual conferences during the COVID-19 pandemic and future perspectives on this subject was disseminated internationally online between June and August 2020. Findings A total of 508 responses were received from 73 countries. The largest number of responses came from Italy and the USA. The majority of respondents had already attended a virtual conference (80%) and would like to attend future virtual meetings (97%). The ideal duration of such an event was 2-3 days (42%). The preferred time format was a 2-4-h session (43%). Most respondents also noted that they would like a significant fee reduction and the possibility to attend a conference partly in-person and partly online. Respondents indicated educational sessions as the most valuable sections of virtual meetings. The reported positive factor of the virtual meeting format is the ability to re-watch lectures on demand. On the other hand, the absence of networking and human contact was recognized as a significant loss. In the future, people expressed a preference to attend conferences in person for networking purposes, but only in safer conditions. Conclusions Respondents appreciated the opportunity to attend the main radiological congresses online and found it a good opportunity to stay updated without having to travel. However, in general, they would prefer these conferences to be structured differently. The lack of networking opportunities was the main reason for preferring an in-person meeting.".
- 01GQ7QQN1DND4D3HRVG8H354Q5 abstract "Endoglucanases are particularly important in high-solids enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass due to the operational need to decrease the medium viscosity via liquefaction, alleviating one of the processes' significant hindrances. This study evaluated an endoglucanase-rich supernatant produced by a particular strain of Aspergillus awamori to speed up biomass liquefaction in reactions with 30% solids. Supplementing commercial enzymes with the crude supernatant of A. awamori (Aa) comparatively decreased the media viscosity 10-fold and improved glucose release by 20% after 24 h hydrolysis. The A. awamori supernatant was fractionated by sizeexclusion chromatography, and an endoglucanase-rich fraction was identified by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The endoglucanase fraction and the crude Aa supplementations, under comparative conditions to a highly efficient commercial enzyme, resulted in equivalent improvements in medium viscosity and glucose release, indicating that A. awamori endoglucanases are particularly efficient for biomass liquefaction in conditions of high-solids hydrolysis.".
- 01GQ7QW91KZGRKRGJAH3QST13R abstract "Structured reporting has substantial interest in radiology. As this way of reporting increases quality and allows for structural availability of report data elements, it is of strategic interest for radiology to increase this way of reporting. Artificial intelligence, decision support, and natural language processing could help to facilitate the acceptance of structured reporting in routine clinical practice.".
- 01GQ7R0SX1CSTDV2JHA16QZR7J abstract "FLEXPART simulations driven with the reanalysis ERA-Interim from 1 February 1979 to 30 August 2019. The simulations cover the entire globe (90°S to 90°N and 180°E to 179°W) with 3 million homogeneously distributed air parcels representing the entire mass in the atmosphere.".
- 01GQ7R3J0B8019YYRR8BPED7Y4 abstract "The use of microalgae as a sustainable source of n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) as an alternative to fish oils from small pelagic fish (e.g., anchovy, sardine) has received growing interest in the past few years. The present study aimed to: (i) produce Aurantiochytrium mangrovei biomass by heterotrophic fermentation using a medium containing anaerobic digestion liquid effluent, and (ii) evaluate a biomass rich in n-3 LC-PUFA and good quality proteins as a feed ingredient for sea bass juveniles and larvae. Two 800 L bioreactors were used to produce Aurantiochytrium biomass in non-axenic conditions. Biomass was then filtered through a crossflow filtration system (300 Kda ceramic membrane) and freeze-dried. Sea bass juveniles (32.7 +/- 4.2 g) were fed both a control diet and a diet containing 15% of freeze-dried A. mangrovei biomass for 38 days. Juvenile survival percentage was 90% on average in both dietary conditions. Similar growth was observed between fish fed with both diets, demonstrating the feasibility to replace 15% of a standard fish feed by Aurantiochytrium biomass. The liver of sea bass juveniles fed with the A. mangrovei diet contained significantly higher proportions of 22:6n-3, 22:5n-6, and 20:4n-6 than those fed with the control diet, while the proportions of 16:0, 16:1n-7, and 18:1n-9 were significantly lower. The secondary oxidation, as measured by malonylaldehyde (MDA) content, in the liver and muscle of juveniles fed with the microalgae diet tended to be higher than in fish fed the control diet, but the differences were not statistically significant. Although the larvae survival percentage was low for all the tanks after 41 days of rearing, the inclusion of 15% of hydrolyzed A. mangrovei biomass in the larvae micro-diet did not impair the development of sea bass larvae and only marginally affected their lipid composition. In the future, we have to further optimize a sustainable workflow between Aurantiochytrium cultivation and fish feed production and confirm the zootechnical and biochemical results.".
- 01GQ7R8ZG31DJW7Z8STDMBYE2C abstract "It is considered that the effort to reduce the anthropogenic impact should be not solely an individual effort but requires collective action, including efforts within the household dialogue. Evidence reveals that individual efficacy to adopt pro-environmental behaviours depends strongly on the household dynamics to achieve the expected goal. On top of it, collective action is important to achieve difficult goals (such as conservation behaviours). Additionally, household members (parents and children) strongly influence the behaviours of each other (e.g., reversed socialization). Therefore, the household dynamics can have an impact on the adoption of pro-environmental behaviours. As such, this study focuses on understanding which factors stimulate the communication at the household level, among parents and children, about climate change. Via an online survey, 714 Belgian parents (of children between 8-18 years old) selfreported on the frequency of the communication about environmental protection and risks within their household (including various topics, depth of conversation, valence, among other components of the communication), their acceptance of reversed socialization (childrens’ influence on parents), and personal factors (e.g., coping mechanisms towards climate change, pro-environmental behaviours). The results reveal that the communication about the environment within the household was moderately frequent (M = 3.06, SD = 0.76). After performing an exploratory factor analysis (PCA), four different topics of communication were identified; sustainable household practices (M = 3.65, SD = 0.86) and parental instructing towards sustainable behavior (M = 3.31, SD = 0.90) were the most frequent followed by schoolrelated (M = 2.98, SD = 0.94) and outer influence topics (M = 2.75, SD = 0.87). A step-wise regression revealed that the overall communication frequency in the household was associated with acceptance of reversed socialization along with children frequently initiating the communication. Moreover, step-wise regressions for each topic were performed to understand more in depth the predictors associated respectively. Conversations related to sustainable household practices were associated with positive communication, and positive parental reaction (i.e. when the kids show environmental concern); while parental instructing was associated with parent’s perceptions to be able to include the children in the conversation. Both topics were also associated with higher reported pro-environmental behaviours of the parent, the parents being the conversation initiator; yet, the communication frequency decreased when meaning-making was the parent’s dominant coping mechanism (i.e., dealing with their concerns related to sustainability with positive feelings such as hope and trust on the competence of others to solve the problem). Furthermore, household communication related to sustainability was more frequently related to school, when environmental concern displayed from the school was higher, and when parents reported to apply a problem-solving coping mechanism . The outer influence communication was particularly associated with higher moral obligation of the parents to conduct sustainable behavior. Finally, for the late two topics, common predictors were the acceptance of reversed socialization and higher frequency of the child initiating the conversation. The study brings to light the impact of parents’ acceptance of reversed socialization and their environmental coping mechanisms to stimulate communication about environmental protection and risks.".
- 01GQ7RFTHDAT0CSXK85RGS30KM abstract "Over recent years, pyrolysis has grown into a mature technology with added value for producing soil improvers. Further innovations of this technology lie in developing tailor-made products from specific feedstocks (or mix-tures thereof) in combination with adjusted mixing ratio-temperature regimes. In this context, co-pyrolysis of pig manure (PM) and the invasive plant Japanese knotweed (JK) at different mixture ratios (w/w) of 3:1 (P3J1), 1:1 (P1J1), and 1:3 (P1J3) and varying temperatures (400 & ndash;700 ???C) was studied to address the low carbon properties and heavy metals (HMs) risks of manure-derive biochars and beneficially ameliorate the bio-invasion situation by creating value from the plant biomass. Co-pyrolysis of PM with JK increased by nearly 1.5 folds the fixed carbon contents in the combined feedstock biochars obtained at 600 ???C compared with PM-derived biochar alone, and all combined feedstock biochars met the requirements for soil improvement and carbon sequestration. The total HMs in PM biochars were significantly reduced by adding JK. The combined feedstock biochar P1J1 generated at 600 ???C was the most effective in transforming Cu and Zn into more stable forms, accordingly reducing the associated environmental risk of heavy metal leaching from the biochar. In addition, the accumulation of macronutrients can be an added benefit of the co-pyrolysis process, and P1J1-600 was also the biochar that retained the most nutrients (P, Ca, Mg, and K).".
- 01GQ7RK53FYBP0QFX2F0MQ5NJY abstract "Soil dryness modulates the surface energy balance through a reduction in evaporation, and can in turn affect both local and downwind precipitation. But when evaporation is heavily constrained by soil moisture, there is also a reduced local water vapor supply to the atmosphere, manifesting as downwind moisture deficits. Soil moisture–precipitation feedbacks as a whole — including surface heating-induced boundary layer processes and interactions, as well as changes in tropospheric moistening — have already been extensively investigated, particularly at the local scale. However, little is known about the non-local impact of soil moisture on precipitation. Here, we focus on the impact of water vapor reductions instigated by already existing soil drought, estimate the downwind effect on precipitation and thus gauge the potential for drought self-propagation. A Lagrangian approach constrained by observational and reanalysis data is employed to reveal the origins of water vapor, establishing a causal link between upwind evaporation and downwind rainfall. We assess the self-propagation of the 40 largest soil drought events from 1980 to 2016, obtained with a novel mathematical morphology method. Specifically, we estimate the reduction in precipitation caused by drought-stricken areas in the direction of drought propagation, and isolate the effect of upwind soil moisture drought from the influence of potential evaporation and circulation variability. Our results show that droughts self-propagate in subtropical drylands, owing to the strong decline in evaporation in response to soil water stress. For entire events, the reduction in precipitation along the propagation front can be more than 15%, and up to 30% for individual months. Our findings highlight that terrestrial ecosystems reliant on their own evaporation supplying rainfall are most affected, and underline the susceptibility of arid environments to self-inflicted drought expansion.".
- 01GQ7RKC75JCDJA2SQ37A9GPDG abstract "To meet consumer demand and remain competitive, brewers attempt to broaden their product range with new, innovative flavors. One way to achieve this is by (partially) replacing barley malt with less common adjuncts, such as the ancient wheat varieties einkorn, emmer, spelt, and khorasan; the pseudocereals quinoa, amaranth, and buckwheat; or the alternative cereals sorghum, teff, and tritordeum. The physical (grain size and thousand kernel weight), chemical (starch, protein, fat, beta-glucan, and water content), and physicochemical (gelatinization temperature, amylase content) properties of these alternative cereals and pseudocereals were determined, as well as their aldehyde concentrations and flavor profiles. The starch content ranged from 45.2 +/- 1.2 %dm for einkorn to 75.5 +/- 0.6 %dm for teff. The protein content ranged from 10.6 +/- 0.0 %dm for barley malt to 18.4 +/- 0.6 %dm for khorasan. Major differences were found for the diastatic power, with quinoa having the lowest (6 +/- 4 degrees WK) and spelt the highest (277 +/- 19 degrees WK) value. Most alternative cereals and pseudocereals had an onset gelatinization temperature <63 degrees C, making them suitable for common brewing practices. This was not the case for quinoa, amaranth, teff, and sorghum, which had a gelatinization temperature >= 64 degrees C. Aldehyde concentrations were significantly lower in alternative cereals and pseudocereals, compared to malted barley.".
- 01GQ7RRHCC7YYDYBXAX43ND9T8 abstract "IntroductionAfter finishing cancer treatment, breast cancer survivors often experience both physical and psychosocial symptoms such as pain. In some, pain can persist for months or even years. Pain is a complex experience. Its occurrence and maintenance are explained through interactions between multiple factors, which are biological/physiological, psychological, and social in nature. Unaddressed needs related to this problem - such as insufficient pain relief, limited validation of the problem, and minimal physical and psychological support - may cause severe disability and negatively impact well-being and quality of life. This study investigated how breast cancer survivors perceive their (chronic) pain complaints to be addressed during follow-up care. Furthermore, we explored how they coped with the way their trajectories happened to unfold. MethodsWe conducted four focus groups with a total of thirty-one breast cancer survivors. Each focus group consisted of an asynchronous part with an online discussion platform and a synchronous part through video calls. Data analysis was guided by the Qualitative Analysis Guide of Leuven. ResultsNarratives revealed the unmet needs of survivors and showed variability in the lived experiences of having to deal with pain. Some survivors tend to ignore the pain, while others look for solutions to reduce pain. A third coping pattern is accepting pain and its impact. Furthermore, how survivors cope with pain is influenced by intrapersonal, interpersonal, and societal processes. For example, pain-related beliefs and prejudices among healthcare providers, family, friends, colleagues, other cancer survivors, and society could possibly steer a survivor towards a certain way of coping. In these processes, the role of healthcare providers seems pivotal. For instance, when survivors do not feel heard or taken seriously by healthcare providers, their acceptance of pain can be impeded. DiscussionTo conclude, a person's way of coping with pain and the associated needs is dynamic and influenced by factors at multiple levels such as the intrapersonal, interpersonal and societal level. To sufficiently address the problem of pain among cancer survivors, we therefore also need actions that tackle the health care system and its stakeholders, as well as the public debate concerning cancer follow-up care.".
- 01GQ7S0JWTTE3H03C7HVDP1SSK abstract "Background To evaluate clinical characteristics, imaging findings, therapeutic approach and outcome of paediatric patients with Chronic Non-Bacterial Osteomyelitis (CNO). Methods Retrospective review of 30 children diagnosed with CNO at two tertiary care centres in Belgium. Imaging data were evaluated by blinded paediatric radiologists. Results Mean age at onset was 10.3 years and mean age at diagnosis was 11.7 years. Bone pain was the leading symptom (29/30 patients). Out of 180 symptomatic lesions, 131 were confirmed on MRI as hyperintense geographic lesions on STIR images at the metaphysis and epiphysis adjacent to growth plates of tubular bones. The most common sites of involvement were the lower limbs, spine, sternoclavicular joint and humerus. For nearly half of the patients (14/30) monotherapy with NSAIDs was sufficient to obtain remission. The remaining 16 patients received second-line therapy: bisphosphonates (n = 15/30), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (n = 7/30), etanercept (n = 4/30) and tocilizumab (n = 1/30). Remission was reached after a mean time of 37.6 months in 26/30 patients. The prognosis was worse for patients with spinal involvement, resulting in more long-term sequelae. Conclusions We present a multicentre paediatric cohort of 30 CNO patients. A typical pattern of bone involvement could be found on MRI. NSAIDs were administered as first-line treatment. Second-line strategies included bisphosphonates, corticosteroids, methotrexate, etanercept and tocilizumab.".
- 01GQ7S1SFF8Z18BHJT05XM48D2 abstract "ObjectiveWe aimed to determine quantitative sacroiliac (SI) joint magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) cutoffs for active and structural lesions that will be incorporated as imaging domains in classification criteria of axial disease in juvenile spondyloarthritis (SpA). MethodsMRI scans from an international cross-section of juvenile SpA patients were reviewed by 6 musculoskeletal imaging experts blinded to clinical details. Raters globally assessed the presence/absence of lesions typical of axial SpA and performed SI joint quadrant- or joint-based scoring. Sensitivity and specificity of lesion cutoffs were calculated using a rater majority (>= 4 of 6 raters) on a global assessment of the presence/absence of active or structural lesions typical of axial SpA with high confidence as the reference standard. Cutoffs were validated in an independent cohort. ResultsImaging from 243 subjects, 61% male, median age 14.9 years, had sequences available for detailed MRI scoring. Optimal cutoffs for defining lesions typical of axial disease in juvenile SpA were: 1) inflammatory lesion: bone marrow edema in >= 3 SI joint quadrants across all SI joint MRI slices (sensitivity 98.6%, specificity 96.5%); 2) structural lesions: erosion in >= 3 quadrants or sclerosis or fat lesion in >= 2 SI joint quadrants or backfill or ankylosis in >= 2 joint halves across all SI joint MRI slices (sensitivity 98.6%, specificity 95.5%). Sensitivity and specificity of the optimal cutoffs in the validation cohort were excellent. ConclusionWe propose data-driven cutoffs for active inflammatory and structural lesions on MRI typical of axial disease in juvenile SpA that have high specificity and sensitivity using central imaging global assessment as the reference standard and excellent reliability.".
- 01GQ7S3612P2RVF8ZG5C77J6B9 abstract "Background Transcriptome profiling of blood cells is an efficient tool to study the gene expression signatures of rheumatic diseases. This study aims to improve the early diagnosis of pediatric rheumatic diseases by investigating patients' blood gene expression and applying machine learning on the transcriptome data to develop predictive models. Methods RNA sequencing was performed on whole blood collected from children with rheumatic diseases. Random Forest classification models were developed based on the transcriptome data of 48 rheumatic patients, 46 children with viral infection, and 35 controls to classify different disease groups. The performance of these classifiers was evaluated by leave-one-out cross-validation. Analyses of differentially expressed genes (DEG), gene ontology (GO), and interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) score were also conducted. Results Our first classifier could differentiate pediatric rheumatic patients from controls and infection cases with high area-under-the-curve (AUC) values (AUC = 0.8 +/- 0.1 and 0.7 +/- 0.1, respectively). Three other classifiers could distinguish chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and interferonopathies (IFN) from control and infection cases with AUC >= 0.8. DEG and GO analyses reveal that the pathophysiology of CRMO, IFN, and JIA involves innate immune responses including myeloid leukocyte and granulocyte activation, neutrophil activation and degranulation. IFN is specifically mediated by antibacterial and antifungal defense responses, CRMO by cellular response to cytokine, and JIA by cellular response to chemical stimulus. IFN patients particularly had the highest mean ISG score among all disease groups. Conclusion Our data show that blood transcriptomics combined with machine learning is a promising diagnostic tool for pediatric rheumatic diseases and may assist physicians in making data-driven and patient-specific decisions in clinical practice.".
- 01GQ7S3V5KVJKXYRE1GW8J413P abstract "Over the past decade, imaging of inflammatory arthritis in juvenile arthropathies has significantly advanced due to technological improvements in the imaging modalities and elaboration of imaging recommendations and protocols through systematic international collaboration. This review presents the latest developments in ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the peripheral and axial joints in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. In the field of US, the ultra-wideband and ultra-high-frequency transducers provide outstanding spatial resolution. The more sensitive Doppler options further improve the assessment and quantification of the vascularization of inflamed tissues, and shear wave elastography enables the diagnosis of tissue stiffness. Concerning MRI, substantial progress has been achieved due to technological improvements in combination with the development of semiquantitative scoring systems for the assessment of inflammation and the introduction of new definitions addressing the pediatric population. New solutions, such as superb microflow imaging, shear wave elastography, volume-interpolated breath-hold examination, and MRI-based synthetic computed tomography open new diagnostic possibilities and, at the same time, pose new challenges in terms of clinical applications and the interpretation of findings.".
- 01GQ7S5K2Z16YXHN0D75Q48N90 abstract "Purpose: To determine the prevalence of incidental findings on sacroiliac joint MRI and to determine the added value of MRI-based synthetic CT in the detection and evaluation of these incidental findings.Method: In this retrospective study 210 patients clinically suspected of spondyloarthritis who underwent MRI of the sacroiliac joint with synthetic CT sequence were included. The images were reviewed by two radiologists in consensus for the prevalence of sacroiliitis, incidental findings, and the ability of synthetic CT and the conventional MRI to detect and diagnose these findings.Results: In 44.7% of patients sacroiliitis was present. In 89.0% of patients MRI showed at least one incidental finding other than sacroiliitis. Degeneration of the sacroiliac joint was the most prevalent finding (140 patients, 66.6%). The most frequent incidental findings outside the sacroiliac joint were facet joint degeneration (29.0%), disc degeneration (25.2%), enostosis (19.5%) and lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (14.3%). A total of 788 lesions was recorded and synthetic CT was found to be problem solving or necessary for diagnosis in 543 (68.9%) of these lesions. 42.1% of lesions were not visible on conventional MRI (T1 TSE and STIR), most often degenerative osteophytes in the sacroiliac joint or lower lumbar spine.Conclusion: Incidental findings are seen more frequently on sacroiliac joint MRI than sacroiliitis, which is relevant as some will have clinical significance or require treatment. Nearly half of these incidental lesions were only visible on synthetic CT, which additionally has been shown to be problem solving for diagnosis in many other cases.".
- 01GQ7SFJ9RYB39Q8DXDF6TWQK1 abstract "Harvesting impacts the costs of microalgae production and affects the characteristics of the final product. Therefore, this study evaluated Moringa oleifera seed powder (MP) as a bioflocculant compared to two chemicals (Aluminium Sulphate-AS and Iron Chloride-IC) to harvest a mixed microalgae culture (Chlorella vulgaris and Desmodesmus sp.) grown on digestate. MP was the most stable flocculant but resulted in the lowest harvesting efficiency of 75%, compared to 94% for AS and 100% for IC. Process parameters such as pH, duration of mixing, grinding method for obtaining the powder, and granulometry had no significant effect on the harvesting efficiency of MP, reinforcing that this is a robust flocculant. The use of a water extraction step increased the harvesting efficiency of MP to 91%, albeit with the need for a higher dosage of flocculant. The algae harvested with MP complied with maximum tolerable levels for swine, cattle, and poultry regarding most trace elements. Nevertheless, all algae samples had Fe and Al contents above the recommended levels, possibly due to the entrapment of metal-rich digestate particles. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the final composition of algae when proposing flocculation as a harvesting method for feed production.".
- 01GQ7SFTZ5H1C10K2JWZ8H7JY8 abstract "Philosophers have often turned towards schizophrenic experience as a way to empirically substantiate philosophical assumptions regarding the essential nature of selfhood. In this context, the phenomenon of thought insertion (TI) has served as a particularly privileged example, as it is commonly assumed to reveal, in a pathological or negative way, the nature of ordinary self-experience. In this paper, we critical discuss one such philosophical account that attempts to explain thought insertion as involving a loss of a ‘sense of agency’ that is presumed to characterize ordinary thinking. In the second part, we furthermore critically revisit the more general assumption that schizophrenia can be understood as a ‘via negativa’ into overlooked evidences and experiences that would permeate ordinary life. Instead, we advance the idea that both philosophy and schizophrenia share a basic kind of hyper-reflexive attitude towards ordinary life. In conclusion, we detail the implications of this idea for current accounts of thought insertion and sketch the general lines of an alternative model that puts more emphasis on the shared nature of philosophical and schizophrenic reflection, and the dialectical paradoxes that may arise in such reflection.".
- 01GQ7SN6Y5SQJ93MMHMQKX5APQ abstract "During disinfection of drinking water, natural organic matter reacts with chlorine to produce harmful disinfection by-products. The identification of precursors of disinfection by-products in natural organic matter is challenging because natural organic matter is very complex and poorly known. Therefore, scientists have focused on the fractionation of natural organic matter with membranes or resins to better understand how and which organic matter fractions react during chlorination. Here, we compared the reactivity of various organic fractions with disinfection by-products. For that we did a meta-analysis of 400 water samples published in 80 publications, with focus on chlorination time and dose, SUVA(254) and the column capacity factor used during resin fractionation. SUVA(254) refers to the ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm divided by the organic matter concentration. We found that hydrophobic compounds have 10-20% higher reactivity to both trihalomethane and haloacetic acid formation compared to hydrophilic compounds in waters with SUVA(254) above 2L/(mg center dot m), while hydrophobic and hydrophilic compounds have equal reactivity in waters with low SUVA(254). On the other hand, hydrophilic compounds are 20-80% more reactive towards emerging disinfection by-products, regardless of SUVA(254). Chlorination time and dose do not influence the reactivity ratio between the different fractions. An increase in column capacity factor can shift the reactivity ratio from hydrophobic to hydrophilic fractions. Dead-end, stirred cell ultrafiltration membrane fractionation might not always produce sharply separated fractions, which is mainly due to fouling. Therefore, no clear correlation could be found between membrane fractions and all investigated disinfection by-product groups.".
- 01GQ7STCSYKQM5SNCVY1KGZR5J abstract "Background: A global shift towards more healthy and sustainable diets is necessary for the prevention of obesity and chronic diseases, as well as for the growing pressure on our ecosystems. Given that parents are important actors in affecting dietary behaviors of their children, developing intervention strategies targeting families and their practices is promising to reach positive behavior change among children. Also, it is important to tailor these interventions to the needs of parents with different socioeconomic statuses (SES), given that health inequalities continue to grow. This study aims to investigate perspectives of lower and higher SES parents on the usability and acceptability of various innovative intervention strategies. Methods: Fourteen focus groups and four individual interviews (n = 78, n(lowerSES) = 17; n(higherSES) = 61) were conducted in Belgium. A semi-structured interview guide was used to facilitate the discussions. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed via thematic content analysis using NVivo. Results: To encourage healthy and sustainable food choices, interventions via online food shopping platforms and nudging strategies in grocery stores were mostly cited by higher SES parents, but these were less applicable for lower SES parents as they buy less online and mainly consider the price of products. Mobile applications that provide inspiration for healthy and sustainable recipes and easily accessible shopping lists received moderate support among lower and higher SES parents. Furthermore, both lower and higher SES parents showed interest in meal boxes delivered at home, but lower SES parents have not yet tried such meal boxes because of their higher prices. Still, both groups of SES parents mentioned many advantages of these meal boxes, such as the convenience and time-saving component, as well as the cooking inspiration aspect. Conclusion: Our study reveals the preferences of lower and higher SES parents for practical intervention strategies, providing insight in what features these strategies should have to be acceptable and useful. Hence, the findings can inform the development of a tailored family-based intervention strategy to improve parental food choices in favor of increased health and sustainability.".
- 01GQ7SYMS927T7EHPK5PK50RJ4 abstract "Addressable advertising on television opens the door to better targeting and measurement of television advertising campaigns, but gaining access to consumer data is paramount for this new technology. This article aims to examine consumer willingness to disclose personal information in the context of addressable advertising by applying privacy calculus theory. The authors administered a survey to 1,858 participants, examining the influence of both personal and situational factors on consumer willingness to disclose information. Personalization value is the strongest antecedent of willingness to disclose data, followed by privacy concerns and institutional trust. The authors suggest how situational factors such as type of data and customer benefits, which are controllable by companies, influence individuals’ willingness to disclose information and how they might balance each other.".
- 01GQ7T6ZF90BS9KWT1BDF4421T abstract "Dealing with the matter of truth Truth has always been a central philosophical category, occupying different fields of knowledge and practice. In the current moment of fake news and alternative facts, it is mandatory to revisit the various meanings of truth. Departing from various approaches to psychoanalytic theory and practice, the authors gathered in this book offer critical reflections and insights about truth and its effects. In articulations of psychoanalysis with (for instance) philosophy, ethics, and politics, the reader will find discussions about issues such as knowledge, love, and clinical practice, all marked by the matter of truth. Contributors: Carin Franzén (Stockholm University), Derek Humphreys (Université Sorbonne Paris Nord), Christian Dunker (University of São Paulo), Peter Jansson (Dalarna University), Laurie Laufer (Université Paris Diderot), Patricia Gherovici (Das Unbehagen), Nicolas Evzonas (Université Paris Diderot), Mladen Dolar (University of Ljubljana), Augusto Ismerim (University of São Paulo), Jasper Feyaerts (Ghent University), Nelson da Silva Junior(University of São Paulo), Paulo Beer (University of São Paulo), Vladimir Safatle (University of São Paulo), Samo Tomšič (Humboldt University) This publication is GPRC-labeled (Guaranteed Peer-Reviewed Content).".
- 01GQ7TB35GFJR5G74RTX5KPJ4T abstract "Marker pigments are used to determine taxonomic composition and biomass of microalgae in different oceanic regions. However, sometimes discrepancies are encountered between microscopy and marker pigment based approaches principally because of altering environmental factors influencing diversity of phytoplankton. In the present investigation, marker pigments from HPLC-CHEMTAX analysis concurrent with carbon biomass estimated by microscopy were investigated during 2015-2016 at weekly intervals in the eastern Mediterranean Sea coast. Counting nanoplankton (in particular non-calcifying haptophytes and prasinophytes) in live samples provided a better correlation between microscopy and pigment-based results than in fixed samples. Nanoplankton and picoplankton constituted ~56% of chlorophyll a based on HPLC-CHEMTAX analysis in the sampling location. Diatoms were the most prominent taxa based on both pigments and microscopy results in the study area. A significant positive correlation between PAR values and CHEMTAX derived chlorophyll a values of cyanobacteria and cryptophytes was observed. While there was no correlation between carbon biomass and Chl a concentrations (p > 0.05) for the whole dataset, a significant correlation appeared between these parameters when the data was split as high and low C:Chl a samples.".
- 01GQ7VGA3N83P13VCV98P1R2PB abstract "Introduction: Endolysins are a class of antimicrobials that are on the verge of break-through in (veterinary) medicine. Although the activity and engineering of these proteins is well-studied, insights regarding their stability, pharmaco-kinetics & -dynamics are limited in an eukaryotic cell environment or upon administration to either animals or humans. Objective: Our groups developed a method that allows the purification of non-pyrogenic endolysins purified from E. coli, applied to our previous research in the context of bovine mastitis. Materials, Methods and Results: ClearColi® BL21 (DE3), an E. coli line knocked-out for immunogenic lipopolysaccharide (LPS), was used for the expression of a polyhistidine (his)-tagged endolysin. After sonication on ice, the centrifuged lysate was applied to a HisTrap column on an Äkta Pure system, which was pretreated with 1M NaOH to disintegrate residual LPS. The column was washed with lysis buffer containing 0.1% EMPIGEN® detergent to remove any residual LPS left in the sample. Next, this detergent was removed from the column by washing with lysis buffer, after which his-rich host cell proteins were likewise removed with 50 mM imidazole. An isocratic elution with 400 mM imidazole yielded the his-tagged protein. Finally, buffer exchange was executed by centrifugation in a Pierce™ protein concentrator, also correcting the volume to the desired molarity. As a proof-of-concept for non-pyrogenicity, bovine mammary epithelial cells (boMECs) and a limited number of mouse mammary glands (n = 6) were incubated or intramammarily injected with 8 or 2.5 µM of purified endolysin, respectively. Neutral red staining evaluated cytotoxicity on the boMECs and histology on the mouse mammary glands also confirmed safety. Conclusion: Our method successfully purified one selected endolysin without precipitation or disintegration loss. This purified endolysin was regarded safe both in vitro and in vivo upon its administration to boMECs and mice.".
- 01GQ7W70JJWQCM2H4S7MZXQ0MA abstract "Objectives: We investigate whether job control and/or social support at work play a buffering role in the relation between various physical work behaviors and Need for Recovery (NFR) among employees with physically demanding jobs. Methods: Our findings are based on data from 332 workers. The Job Content Questionnaire was used to assess job control, social support and specific physically demanding tasks. General physical work behaviors were measured by two Axivity AX3 accelerometers. The NFR Scale (0-11) was used to assess NFR. We used multiple linear regression models. Results: Sitting at work turned out to be negatively associated with NFR, whereas physically demanding tasks were associated positively with NFR. Our results show a significant buffering role for job control on the correlation between sitting, physically demanding tasks and NFR, but not for social support. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that higher job control might be beneficial to reduce high NFR and eventually may help to reduce early drop-out and sickness absence. Further research is called for to confirm the buffering role of job control and to investigate the underlying mechanisms.".
- 01GQ7WK16K7YHBSV442NMWD8CV abstract "Chromium ore processing residue (COPR) is a hazardous waste generated during the production of chromate. Currently, approximately 10% of Cr2O3 cannot be extracted after chromite sodium roasting and remains in COPR, wasting valuable Cr resources. In this study, Mg was selectively removed by using (NH4)(2)SO4 roasting in combination with H2SO4 leaching. The results showed that the selective removal of 79.55% Mg from COPR could be achieved under the optimum (NH4)(2)SO4 roasting conditions (80 mmol (NH4)(2)SO4, 800 ?, 2 h). During the subsequent sodium roasting and acid leaching stages, the Cr extraction rate was 84.63% for the COPR direct roasting and 95.39% for the Mg removal residue roasting. The increased Cr extraction efficiency is attributed to the transformation of Mg-rich spinel and diopside (the Mg & Cr coexisting phases) in COPR converted into easily extractable (Fe, Cr)(2)O-3 and Cr(2)O(3 )after the Mg treatment. This study investigated that the phase transformation of the Cr host phases is crucial for the sufficient extraction of Cr and provides inspiration for the development of efficient and practical Cr extraction techniques. Moreover, the method can be extended to the effective extraction of Cr from other Cr-containing wastes.".
- 01GQ7WKHQ5GGYZB3H7JNKTHA66 abstract "Objectives: Endolysins, bacteriophage-derived enzymes that degrade the bacterial cell wall, are a novel class of antimicrobials that are breaking through in human and veterinary medicine. In this work PlySs2 & -9, two endolysins derived from Streptococcus suis bacteriophages, have been characterized for their lytic activity towards Streptococcus uberis. This latter mentioned pathogen is among the top causative agents of bovine mastitis, defined as an inflammation of the cow’s udder, with high economic impact on the dairy industry. S. uberis can circumvent standard antibiotic therapy due to biofilm formation, intracellular persistence and antimicrobial resistance, which subsequently leads to chronic infections that remain difficult to eradicate. Methods: PlySs2 & -9 were synthesized after their discovery in S. suis prophages and standard cloning techniques were used to clone out individual subdomains. Polyhistidine-tagged proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) and chromatographically purified. A combination of qualitative (spot-on-plate) and quantitative (turbidity reduction, logarithmic reduction & MIC) assays evaluated the lytic activity on reference strains and (sub)clinical isolates, whilst fluorescence microscopy evaluated binding of the AlexaFluor-conjugated cell-wall binding subdomains. Results & Conclusions: PlySs2 and PlySs9 both have in vitro muralytic activity against a broad range of (sub)clinical bovine mastitis S. uberis strains. In depth characterization further substantiated PlySs9 as the more potent endolysin, killing one additional log and showing a lower MIC than PlySs2. Additional molecular dissection of both endolysins showed that the individual subdomains have deficient killing and binding activity compared to their respective parental endolysin.".
- 01GQ7XH26FC9YKXX8PYQY4ERA0 abstract "Duckweed (Lemna) is a possible solution for the treatment of aqueous waste streams and the simultaneous provision of protein-rich biomass. Nitrification-Denitrification effluent (NDNE) from pig manure treatment has been previously used as a growing medium for duckweed. This study investigated the use of a continuous duckweed cultivation system to treat NDNE as a stand-alone technology. For this purpose, a system with a continuous supply of waste streams from the pig manure treatment, continuous biomass production, and continuous discharge that meets the legal standards in Flanders (Belgium) was simulated for a 175-day growing season. In this simulation, salt accumulation was taken into account. To prevent accumulating salts from reaching a toxic concentration and consequently inhibiting growth, the cultivation system must be buffered, which can be achieved by altering the depth of the system. To determine the minimum depth of such a system, a tray experiment was set up. For that, salt accumulation data obtained from previous research were used for simulating systems with different pond depths. It was found that a depth of at least 1 m is needed to prevent a significant relative growth inhibition at the end of the growing season compared to the start. This implies a high water consumption (5-10 times more than maize). As a response, a second cultivation system was investigated for the use of more concentrated NDNE. For this purpose, salt tolerance experiments were conducted on synthetic and biological media. Surprisingly, it was observed that duckweed grows better on diluted NDNE (to 75% NDNE, or EC of 8 mS/cm) than on a synthetic medium (EC of 1.5 mS/cm), indicating the potential of such a system.".
- 01GQ7Y4VJ96G7ZSFMB3W84GCEV abstract "ObjectivesTo investigate the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on quality of life (QoL), meaningful daily activities, and (pre)frailty in community-dwelling octogenarians.MethodsCross-sectional design with bivariate and multiple linear regression modeling using a stepwise approach examining the level of QoL during the COVID-19 lockdown in a group of 215 community-dwelling octogenarians (M-age = 86.49 +/- 3.02). A comprehensive set of biopsychosocial variables (FRAIL scale, general health, engagement in meaningful activities survey, questions on loneliness, and feelings) were used as explaining variables.ResultsParticularly, a decrease in daily activities, social activities, and an increase in free times activities were observed, but the decrease in QoL could be explained by the meaningfulness in activities, together with experiencing emptiness in life, taking >= 4 medications a day and feeling down or depressed.ConclusionsWe tried to understand which components contribute to and might affect a person's QoL caused by restrictions imposed by the governance and its influence on the lives of the community-dwelling octogenarians. As such, this output could be a baseline for the development of minimally impacting countermeasures during future lockdowns.Clinical implicationsStudying lifestyle changes and thus also variables related to QoL during a pandemic, may support policymakers and practitioners to develop relevant interventions.".
- 01GQ7YG5WK33ZEEJY7XZYYNWZA abstract "BACKGROUND: The assessment of work capacity, workable work and the need for a common language is challenging in labour market policy. Being a specific instrument to facilitate Return To Work (RTW), the Integration von Menschen mit Behinderungen in die Arbeitswelt (IMBA) might facilitate the documentation of the individual's work capacity, the jobrelated workload and the match between these two elements. Since the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) is worldwide recognized as frame of reference in RTW, this paper presents the linking of IMBA to the ICF, since this is assumed to be beneficial to support RTW. OBJECTIVE: The establishment of the IMBA-ICF linking in order to study 1) the relationship between IMBA and ICF; 2) the content comparison of IMBA with work-related ICF core sets; and 3) the extent to which the linking addresses the challenges in RTW policy. METHODS: A content comparison of IMBA and ICF was conducted, using a 7- step linking methodology in which the Delphi and Nominal Group Technique are integrated in the implementation of the ICF linking rules. An explorative conversion of the scoring systems of IMBA and ICF was established based on expert opinions. RESULTS: In the main 70 IMBA items, 107 concepts have been identified of which 94 were linked to 87 different ICF categories. Body functions and activities and participation are the most presented ICF components in contrast to the environmental factors. IMBA items regarding occupational safety and work organization are respectively 'not covered' and `not defined' in ICF. CONCLUSIONS: An integration of IMBA and ICF addresses the challenges in RTW policy in the assessment of work capacity, workable work and the need for a common language.".
- 01GQ854C6FCGH82XRSGRHX0SKM abstract "Hybrid precoders, consisting of an analog hardware-constrained part operating at radio frequency (RF) and a digital part operating at baseband, reduce the RF implementation complexity and power consumption of multi-antenna transceivers, at the expense of some rate loss compared to an all-digital precoder. The analog and digital parts of the hybrid precoder are commonly designed by performing a constrained matrix decomposition (MD) of the all-digital precoder, which aims to minimize the Euclidean distance between the matrices corresponding to the hybrid and the all-digital precoder. In contrast, in this contribution we determine the zero-forcing (ZF) hybrid precoder that directly maximizes the weighted sumrate of a MU-MISO-OFDM communication system, taking into account various hardware constraints on the analog part. The resulting maximum rate serves as a useful benchmark for comparison with other ZF hybrid precoders. In a multi-carrier massive MIMO scenario, the rate-maximizing ZF precoders show a considerable performance advantage over MD-type hybrid precoders, indicating that the latter precoders are far from optimum. This contribution also investigates the trade-off between performance and computational complexity. Because of the iterative nature of the rate-maximizing ZF hybrid precoders, their superior performance comes with a large computational complexity. When this complexity cannot be afforded, one should revert to the MD-type precoders, at the expense of a considerable performance penalty; among the MD-type precoders, the non-iterative ones have only a slightly worse performance but a significantly smaller computational complexity, in comparison with the iterative ones.".
- 01GQ8AVSQN2JJ7WNRS5NBXZY74 abstract "Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) are widely used in digital learning systems, as they allow for automating the assessment process. However, owing to the increased digital literacy of students and the advent of social media platforms, MCQ tests are widely shared online, and teachers are continuously challenged to create new questions, which is an expensive and time-consuming task. A particularly sensitive aspect of MCQ creation is to devise relevant distractors, i.e., wrong answers that are not easily identifiable as being wrong. This article studies how a large existing set of manually created answers and distractors for questions over a variety of domains, subjects, and languages can be leveraged to help teachers in creating new MCQs, by the smart reuse of existing distractors. We built several data-driven models based on context-aware question and distractor representations and compared them with static feature-based models. The proposed models are evaluated with automated metrics and in a realistic user test with teachers. Both automatic and human evaluations indicate that context-aware models consistently outperform a static feature-based approach. For our best-performing context-aware model, on average, three distractors out of the ten shown to teachers were rated as high-quality distractors. We create a performance benchmark, and make it public, to enable comparison between different approaches and to introduce a more standardized evaluation of the task. The benchmark contains a test of 298 educational questions covering multiple subjects and languages and a 77k multilingual pool of distractor vocabulary for future research.".
- 01GQ8BW62Q89DD0NPGVQ5EM0NC abstract "Seventy five percent of the world's food crops benefit from insect pollination. Hence, there has been increased interest in how global change drivers impact this critical ecosystem service. Because standardized data on crop pollination are rarely available, we are limited in our capacity to understand the variation in pollination benefits to crop yield, as well as to anticipate changes in this service, develop predictions, and inform management actions. Here, we present CropPol, a dynamic, open, and global database on crop pollination. It contains measurements recorded from 202 crop studies, covering 3,394 field observations, 2,552 yield measurements (i.e., berry mass, number of fruits, and fruit density [kg/ha], among others), and 47,752 insect records from 48 commercial crops distributed around the globe. CropPol comprises 32 of the 87 leading global crops and commodities that are pollinator dependent. Malus domestica is the most represented crop (32 studies), followed by Brassica napus (22 studies), Vaccinium corymbosum (13 studies), and Citrullus lanatus (12 studies). The most abundant pollinator guilds recorded are honey bees (34.22% counts), bumblebees (19.19%), flies other than Syrphidae and Bombyliidae (13.18%), other wild bees (13.13%), beetles (10.97%), Syrphidae (4.87%), and Bombyliidae (0.05%). Locations comprise 34 countries distributed among Europe (76 studies), North America (60), Latin America and the Caribbean (29), Asia (20), Oceania (10), and Africa (7). Sampling spans three decades and is concentrated on 2001-2005 (21 studies), 2006-2010 (40), 2011-2015 (88), and 2016-2020 (50). This is the most comprehensive open global data set on measurements of crop flower visitors, crop pollinators and pollination to date, and we encourage researchers to add more datasets to this database in the future. This data set is released for non-commercial use only. Credits should be given to this paper (i.e., proper citation), and the products generated with this database should be shared under the same license terms (CC BY-NC-SA).".
- 01GQ8CB69VGJFX1PW7KXK92R30 abstract "Mitigating pollinator declines in agriculturally dominated landscapes to safeguard pollination services requires the involvement of farmers and their willingness to adopt pollinator-friendly management. However, farmer knowledge, perceptions, and actions to support on-farm pollinators and their alignment with science-based knowledge and recommendations are rarely evaluated. To close this knowledge gap, we interviewed 560 farmers from 11 countries around the world, cultivating at least one of four widely grown pollinator-dependent crops (apple, avocado, kiwifruit, oilseed rape). We particularly focused on non-bee crop pollinators which, despite being important pollinators of many crops, received less research attention than bees. We found that farmers perceived bees to be more important pollinators than other flower-visiting insects. However, around 75% of the farmers acknowledged that non-bees contributed to the pollination of their crops, seeing them as additional pollinators rather than substitutes for bees. Despite farmers rating their own observations as being most important in how they perceived the contribution of different crop pollinator taxa, their perception aligned closely with results from available scientific studies across crops and countries. Farmer perceptions were also linked with their pollinator management practices, e.g. farmers who used managed bees for crop pollination services (more than half the farmers) rated these managed bees as particularly important. Interestingly, their willingness to establish wildflower strips or manage hedgerows to enhance pollinator visitation was linked to their ecological knowledge of non-bees or to government subsidies. Farmers adapted practices to enhance pollination services depending on the crop, which indicates an understanding of differences in the pollination ecology of crops. Almost half of the farmers had changed on-farm pollination management in the past 10 years and farm practices differed greatly between countries. This suggests integrated crop pollination measures are being adapted by farmers to reach best pollinator management practices. Our findings highlight the importance of studying local knowledge as a key to co-design locally-adapted measures to facilitate pollinator-integrated food production as ecological intensification tools.".
- 01GQ8CHNQQJAEHHQ7TH9WWVTS2 abstract "There are increasing concerns about the status and population trends of carnivores around the world. Carnivores play an important role in terrestrial ecosystems, as their interactions influence the composition and function of ecological communities. In the context of global change, it is essential to understand the interactions and resource use of carnivores. In this study, we explore the dietary ecology of six small- and medium-sized carnivores (red fox, European badger, European polecat, stoat, stone marten and least weasel) to determine their main food resources and the degree of food overlap in Flanders, Belgium. The studied species differed in their food consumption pattern with some being generalist and some more specialist. The dietary composition among the species was clearly different, although certain species showed considerable overlap for different food types. We also conclude that the differences and overlap in the dietary habits among the species were consistent across seasons. Understanding these relationships among species' populations and their dietary ecology is essential for biodiversity conservation and nature management.".
- 01GQ8CVK921KPC6REDYNQNGVS8 abstract "Wild bees are key providers of pollination services in agroecosystems. The abundance of these pollinators and the ecosystem services they provide rely on supporting resources in the landscape. Spatially explicit models that quantify wild bee abundance and pollination services in food crops are built on the foundations of foraging and nesting resources. This dependence limits model implementation as land-cover maps and pollination experts capable of evaluating habitat resource quality are scarce. This study presents a novel approach to assessing crop pollination services using remote sensing data (RSD) as an alternative to the more conventional use of land-cover data and local expertise on spatially explicit models. We used landscape characteristics derived from remote sensors to qualify nesting resources in the landscape and to evaluate the delivery of pollination services by mining bees (Andrena spp.) in 30 fruit orchards located in the Flemish region of Belgium. For this study, we selected mining bees for their importance as local pollinators and underground nesting behavior. We compared the estimated pollination services derived from RSD with those derived from the conventional qualification of nesting resources. We did not observe significant differences (p = 0.68) in the variation in mining bee activity predicted by the two spatial models. Estimated pollination services derived from RSD and conventional characterizations explained 69% and 72% of the total variation, respectively. These results confirmed that RSD can deliver nesting suitability characterizations sufficient for estimating pollination services. This research also illustrates the importance of nesting resources and landscape characteristics when estimating pollination services delivered by insects like mining bees. Our results support the development of holistic agroenvironmental policies that rely on modern tools like remote sensors and promote pollinators by considering nesting resources.".
- 01GQ8JEMF8K8MEBFNWQ3T5JMG2 abstract "The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) delivered on 14 June 2022 a judgment finding a gross and systemic violation by the Russian state of the right to freedom of association in combination with the right to freedom of expression and information as protected by Articles 11 and 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The complaints by seventy-three non-governmental organisations (NGOs), formulated in sixty-one applications, all concerned the 2012 Foreign Agents Act. The ECtHR found the restrictions imposed by the Russian authorities on the NGOs which have been categorised as “foreign agents” a breach of their freedom of expression and association. One of the applicants is the Mass Media Defence Centre in Voronezh, which mission is the protection of human rights, freedom of expression and the rights of the mass media.".
- 01GQ8KCGSDZVPCW55KGC14V1VD abstract "A recent judgment of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) walks the line between permissible political satire and unlawful sexist hate speech. The ECtHR found that the criminal conviction of a blogger for a series of cartoons that echoed sexist stereotypes amounted to a violation of the blogger’s right to freedom of expression as guaranteed by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The ECtHR concluded unanimously that the cartoons in essence referred to an ongoing political debate, criticizing the municipal leadership. In spite of the sexual stereotyping of one female member of the municipal board, the ECtHR found that the caricatures had remained within the limits of exaggeration and provocation that were typical of satire. It also found that the criminal sanction in the present case could have a chilling effect on satirical forms of expression concerning political issues.".
- 01GQ8KFVQZMYVP7MWAEKT3069W abstract "Ecosystem services are the contributions that natural ecosystems make to people. Mammalian carnivores can provide both positive and negative ecosystem services by consuming pest or game species, respectively. In this study, we determined the consumption of certain game and pest species for a guild of sympatric small- and medium-sized carnivores (European badger, red fox, European polecat, stone marten, stoat and least weasel). We found that game and pest species comprise a notable proportion of the diet, ranging from 0.0% to 12.6% and from 2.7% to 46.3%, respectively. Furthermore, for all carnivores we found that the proportion of pest species such as rats and voles (i.e., positive ecosystem service) was higher than the proportion of game species such as pheasants, partridges and hares, i.e., negative ecosystem service). Moreover, stoat and weasel did not consume any game species. This study gives a first overview of the potential ecosystem services through consumption of pest and game species provided by small- and medium-sized carnivores.".
- 01GQ8KHT53BV473BVXSH77QVK6 abstract "Despite widespread concern about biodiversity declines, few empirical studies exist on long-term population trends of mammal carnivores. In the context of global change, it is essential to understand the population trends and resource use of mammal carnivores. Mammal carnivores fulfil an important ecosystem function in terrestrial ecosystems as their top-down role directly and indirectly influences prey populations which affects the entire food web. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether and how the population trends of two sympatric mustelid species, stone marten and polecat, have changed between 1998 and 2013 in Flanders, Belgium. In addition, we explored temporal changes in their dietary habits. From 1998-2013, in collaboration with a citizen science network, we collected road-killed animals over the entire area of Flanders (13,682 km(2)). Based on the number of collected road-killed animals we detected a decrease in the polecat population during 1998-2013 whereas the stone marten population has increased. By subsequent identification of the stomach contents of the specimens, we detected fluctuations throughout the year of the consumption of certain food types. In addition, the consumption of certain food items decreased (stone marten: fruits, grains and nuts and lagomorphs; polecat: birds, rodents and other mammals) or increased (stone marten: edible waste and polecat: amphibians) throughout this period of opposite population trends. An increase of the degree of specialization of the diet throughout the sampling period was also detected for both mustelid species. In summary, our study concludes contrasting population trends coupled with clear changes in feeding habits of two sympatric carnivore species. Understanding these long-term relationships between species population trends and their dietary ecology is vital for biodiversity conservation and nature management.".
- 01GQ8KM3EEANC70T1C33V9B1EK abstract "Solitary bees are receiving increasing attention as they are very effective crop pollinators. However, widespread implementation of pollination management with solitary bees is hampered by a lack of targeted and practical guidelines. Indeed, little evidence-based guidelines exist about the preferred type of nesting material, how to control nest-associated macroparasites and how to promote a healthy offspring with sufficient female bees. This study investigated whether different types of artificial nesting materials - paper straws and wooden grooved boards - are preferred by the European orchard bee (Osmia cornuta). In addition, we explored how the bee nesting success and infestation of macroparasites are influenced by type of nesting material, landscape complexity and timing throughout the active nesting period of O. cornuta. We found that O. cornuta preferred to nest in paper straws compared to wooden grooved boards. The number of produced brood cells and the offspring sex-ratio (i.e. the ratio of female:male bees) were higher in wooden grooved boards. Number of brood cells, successful cocoon development and the sex-ratio all decreased throughout the nest-construction period of the bees. The sex-ratio also increased with increasing landscape complexity. Paper straws had a reduced infestation rate of kleptoparasitic mites. In addition, the infestation rate of both kleptoparasitic mites and kleptoparasitic drosophilid flies increased with time throughout the bees' nest-construction period. These findings present relevant evidence to aid successful implementation of solitary bees for crop pollination. Utilization of paper straws, or similar materials, over wooden grooved boards and closing the nests near the end of the bees' active nest-construction period should be recommended practices. Implementation of these practices will reduce parasite infestation and enhance bee nesting success. Furthermore, conservation of semi-natural habitat or planting pollinator-friendly vegetation around fields is also advised to promote the proportion of female bees in the offspring.".
- 01GQ8KS9ENEK0EGYSFFT7F0MET abstract "ContextTo date, managing honey bees and wild bees within crop fields remains challenging. Landscape structure is often overlooked when studying the pollination contribution of honey bees. Increasing our understanding on how to predict honey bee visitation in crops is crucial for sustainable management of agroecosystems. ObjectivesWith this study we investigated which landscape and field-level variables determine honey bee and wild bee visitation, and whether honey bee or wild bee visitation influence crop pollination. MethodsSixteen highbush blueberry fields were surveyed for honey bees, wild bees, and crop pollination in Washington, USA. Additionally, within a radius of 1000 m around each field all honey bee hives were located and the surrounding landscape was characterized. ResultsHoney bee hive numbers in the landscape positively correlate with the proportion of blueberry in the landscape. Honey bee visitation was best predicted by landscape-level hive density within a radius of 1000 m, whereas semi-natural habitat and field-level hive density did not impact honey bee visitation. The amount of semi-natural habitat and blueberry within a radius of 1000 m had a positive and negative impact, respectively, on wild bee visitation. Honey bee visitation had a positive effect on blueberry seed set. ConclusionWe conclude that honey bee visitation is determined by the number of honey bee hives in the surrounding landscape. Hence, field-level hive density recommendations miss contributions from other hives in the landscape. Furthermore, semi-natural habitat did not impact honey bee visitation and contributes to diversifying pollinator diets and provides wild bee habitat.".
- 01GQ8KZ7TZ21HNFA9TV3JV7M2C abstract "The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) delivered a judgment on 30 August 2022 confirming and further elaborating the guarantees for protection of journalistic sources under Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The ECtHR concluded unanimously that the search of a journalist’s flat and the seizure of his electronic devices containing his professional information amounted to a violation of Article 10 ECHR. The ECtHR emphasized the lack of assessing the necessity and proportionality of the investigating authorities’ actions. It found in particular problematic that all of the journalist’s electronic devices were seized, and that his professional information was accessed immediately, in the absence of any sifting procedure or other methods which could protect the confidentiality of the journalist’s sources.".
- 01GQ8MEWCFR7AB13C59KXHDQTB abstract "Introducation and comment of a judgment of the Antwerp Court of Appeal of 9 June 2022 that offers strong support for investigative journalism on issues of public interest, while at the same time acknowledging the detrimental impact of SLAPPs (Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation).".