In some condensed matter systems, such as the surface of a 3D topological insulator, the electrons are effectively massless and we must necessarily use the massless Dirac equation to describe them... Show moreIn some condensed matter systems, such as the surface of a 3D topological insulator, the electrons are effectively massless and we must necessarily use the massless Dirac equation to describe them.A very convenient way to numerically solve this equation is to discretise them. However, the Nielsen-Ninomiya theorem proves that if we try to do it naively, extra unphysical massless fermion species appear, giving rise to a number of undesired artefacts. This is known as fermion doubling, and the main focus of this thesis is to tackle this problem via the discretisation method of tangent fermions.Chapters 2,3 and 4 are devoted to developing various aspects of this method. Chapters 5 and 6 are not directly related to the method of tangent fermions but still describe processes that arise in materials with a Dirac-like dispersion relation. In chapter 5, we study the effect a non-zero net supercurrent parallel to the edges of a topological superconductor. We find that the supercurrent can induce a "chirality inversion'' of the Majorana edge modes.In the last chapter, we simulate the injection of "edge-vortices'' into a topological superconductor. These are a type of quasiparticles that can theoretically be used to realise a quantum computer. Show less
This dissertation aims to explore how university students use mobile technology for their self-directed language learning and investigate factors influencing their self-directed learning with... Show moreThis dissertation aims to explore how university students use mobile technology for their self-directed language learning and investigate factors influencing their self-directed learning with mobile technology. It contributed to theoretical and practical knowledge of self-directed language learning using mobile technology outside the classroom in higher education. The research aims of the dissertation were twofold. First, it was aimed at increasing our understanding of the learning experience of learners’ self-directed learning process while preparing for IELTS (International English Language Testing System). Second, it was aimed at suggesting implications for improving the effectiveness of self-directed learning, with implications for learners, educators, and IT practitioners. Four studies were performed focused on (1) an overview of the learning strategies that learners used in their self-directed learning assisted by mobile technology; (2) self-directed learners’ learning process while preparing for the IELTS on their own; (3) language learners’ behavioral intention towards and actual use of mobile technology in self-directed learning; and (4) language learners’ engagement, satisfaction, and persistence in the context of informal, self-directed language learning using mobile technology. In sum, the conclusions of the four studies will inform self-directed learners, educators, and software developers on how to effectively enhance self-directed learning with mobile technology. Show less
As part of the Indo-European language family, the Indo-Iranian branch traces its origins back to the Indo-European homeland on the Pontic-Caspian steppe 5000 years ago. But how did it spread from... Show moreAs part of the Indo-European language family, the Indo-Iranian branch traces its origins back to the Indo-European homeland on the Pontic-Caspian steppe 5000 years ago. But how did it spread from there to Asia? The aim of this thesis is to uncover the early prehistory of Indo-Iranian by investigating its relationship to the Balto-Slavic languages of Eastern Europe, which have been hypothesized to form a subgroup with Indo-Iranian: Indo-Slavic. By comparing the linguistic data with evidence from archaeology and genetics, this thesis traces the migration path of prehistoric Indo-Iranian speakers from the Pontic-Caspian steppe, via the rivers and forests of Eastern Europe, across the Ural Mountains, and southwards to the steppes of Central Asia. Show less
Coronaviruses comprise seven human viruses, some of them the common cold viruses, only causing mild symptoms in healthy individuals, while SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 can potentially cause... Show moreCoronaviruses comprise seven human viruses, some of them the common cold viruses, only causing mild symptoms in healthy individuals, while SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 can potentially cause severe disease and deadly pneumonia. The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019 and its rapid worldwide spread has made apparent the need for a fast response to newly emerging viruses and to have effective therapies available. Although vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 were developed at an unprecedented speed, early patients would have benefitted from antiviral drugs. The respiratory tract is the first entry point for coronaviruses, where epithelial cells are infected and also represent the first barrier of defense. Primary human airway epithelial cells that are cultured and differentiated at the air-liquid interface (HAE-ALI) represent an advanced cell culture model recapitulating the human lung epithelium better than mono-cell cultures. In this thesis, four research projects conducted during the PhD track, are described and discussed, which focussed mainly on SARS-CoV-2. Chapter 1 gives an introduction to the overall research topic of coronavirus biology and antiviral drug discovery, and the use of HAE-ALI to study both. Chapter 2 describes the characterization of SARS-oV-2 infection in HAE-ALI. Changes in the cellular composition, caused by culture time or drug treatment, impacted virus replication, and this correlated with the presence of the main susceptible cells, ciliated cells and goblet cells, as well as expression of virus cell-entry factors. Furthermore, the importance of having a diverse epithelium in the cultures was identified, where likely goblet cells play a supportive role in infection. The findings contribute to the understanding of the variable susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection between individuals and across anatomical locations in the respiratory tract, and possibly in chronic lung diseases affecting the epithelium. Chapter 3 then aimed to conduct a comparative study between SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2, and two common cold coronaviruses. We employed the HAE-ALI cell culture model to decipher differences in the epithelial transcriptional response upon coronavirus infection. RNA sequencing data showed limited expression of interferon genes in infections with SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2, as opposed to the common cold coronaviruses, which corroborated previous studies showing suppression of interferon responses by the these three coronaviruses. Furthermore, SARSCoV-2 infection uniquely lacked the expression of a set of immediate early genes, which are expressed in response to stressors like infection. By utilizing the findings about one of these genes, NR4A1, an inhibitor was identified that blocks SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV replication. Chapters 4 and 5 describe two antiviral drugs that efficiently block the replication of SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses. The first, R-Propranolol, is part of a drug that is approved for the treatment of hemangioma (benign vascular tumor), besides various medical conditions like cardiovascular diseases. R-Propranolol was shown to reduce a proangiogenic factor, which was recently reported to be associated with an increased rate of severe lung pathology in COVID-19. Therefore, this drug could be an interesting candidate to investigate further as host-directed therapy to reduce vascular damage in COVID-19, caused by endothelial dysfunction and pathological angiogenesis. Additionally, a potent antiviral effect of R-Propranolol against SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses was observed, which makes the drug an interesting antiviral with two potential angles of activity. Chapter 5 describes a class of host-directed antivirals, glucosidase inhibitors, which inhibit endoplasmic reticulum (ER) resident alpha-glucosidases, important for protein folding in the ER and quality control. Many viruses, including coronaviruses, use the host’s ER protein quality control machinery for their glycoproteins. For SARS-CoV-2, especially the spike protein, which is crucial for virus attachment and entry into the host cell, is heavily glycosylated and dependent on processing in the ER and Golgi. Several compounds were tested, belonging to two classes, iminosugars and cyclitols. While iminosugars have been studied for decades as potential antiviral drugs, we identified 1,6-epi-cyclophellitol cyclosulfate, a candidate of a new class of glucosidase inhibitors, as superior due to its high specificity for ER alpha-glucosidase II and potent antiviral efficacy. Inhibition of ER alphaglucosidases led to a reduction in spike protein generation and subsequently to a reduced production of infectious virus particles. In addition to SARS-CoV-2, 1,6-epi-cyclophellitol cyclosulfate also blocks the production of SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV progeny, rendering this class of compounds promising broad-spectrum antivirals. In the final chapter, the main findings of the research projects are discussed in the context of recently published studies. Furthermore, the current landscape of SARS-CoV-2 host-directed antiviral therapy and the benefits of using the most relevant cell culture models in antiviral drug discovery are discussed. Show less
This thesis focuses on child labour in producing bountiful supply of cocoa in the cocoa-producing area of Gomoa Ofaso in the Winneba District from 1874 when there was labour shortage up to 1940... Show moreThis thesis focuses on child labour in producing bountiful supply of cocoa in the cocoa-producing area of Gomoa Ofaso in the Winneba District from 1874 when there was labour shortage up to 1940 when colonial Ghana was the principal producer of cocoa globally. This thesis has been divided into six chapters. This thesis, by the use of qualitative research methodology, demonstrated that market forces after the abolition of domestic slavery in 1874 together with the introduction and export of cocoa intensified the use of child labour in this District due to the shortage of labour. The research of child labour in cocoa production in the colonial period is important because it has often been categorised as an example of the worst forms of child labour, yet it has not been adequately studied. This thesis contributes to the discourse on child labour in the colonial period and how the colonial labour problem was dealt with in cocoa production. Show less
Superconductivity refers to a phase of matter in which charge carriers can be moved without dissipating energy. In this special phase, unlike a perfect metal conductor, any external magnetic field... Show moreSuperconductivity refers to a phase of matter in which charge carriers can be moved without dissipating energy. In this special phase, unlike a perfect metal conductor, any external magnetic field lines are expelled from the material. The phenomenon has been a focus of attention both in fundamental science research as well as technological application ever since it was first discovered in Leiden in the year of 1911. Recent fast progress in nano-engineering, fabrication and characterisation enable two-dimensional devices to be realised relatively easily in the lab via top-down or/and bottom-up methods. Van der Waals materials and thin films can be fabricated now with good control and reproducibility. This has not only paved the way for studying clean superconductivity in two dimensions.The advances in nanotechnology combined with the increasing understanding and exploration in solid state physics also allow more control over the superconducting properties of matter. This thesis contributes to the study of conventional phonon-mediated superconductors by exploring the possibility of manipulating (quasi-) two-dimensional (2D) superconductors' properties through the careful design of the devices. The investigations reported in this thesis include clean 2D superconductivity via a top-down fabrication method of exfoliating van der Waals superconductor crystals; understanding critical current magnetic oscillation in van der Waals heterostructure Josephson Junctions; increasing critical current density of thin film superconductor through controlled oxidation. And ambitiously, the increasing of critical temperature of a superconductor by manipulating the material with a superperiodic potential. Show less
The thesis explores Ghanaian Sign Language (GSL), the national sign language of Ghana within urban deaf communities. Using historical, linguistic and ideological data, the research discovered GSL... Show moreThe thesis explores Ghanaian Sign Language (GSL), the national sign language of Ghana within urban deaf communities. Using historical, linguistic and ideological data, the research discovered GSL is a cover term for various signing forms (e.g., ENGLISH, BROKEN, LOCAL). Tracing GSL roots back to the introduction of American Sign Language (ASL) in 1957 by an American missionary, this research unveils a lasting connection between ASL signs and GSL. The thesis presents GSL's historical journey amidst significant challenges such as discrimination and sign language bans (oralism). It sheds light on signers' resilience and contributions to GSL's evolution. This exploration also highlights the emergence of local signing varieties (e.g., school-lects) alongside foreign-based signing forms within a triglossic framework that resembles the distribution and use of spoken languages in Ghana and other African countries. The thesis unearths lexical relationships, examining variants of GSL’s connections not only with ASL but also with locally evolved village sign languages like Adamorobe SL and Nanabin SL. Moreover, the study investigates the expression of Size and Shape Specifiers (SASS) within GSL and Ghanaian gestural communication, offering valuable insights into the susceptibility of sign languages to their gestural environment throughout their life spans. Beyond linguistics, the book explores social landscapes and language ideologies of sign languages in the Ghanaian urban deaf communities. It reveals a pluridimensional continuum of GSL usage and the interplay between high- and low-prestige variants. As an invaluable resource, this thesis enhances the understanding of African national sign languages, providing essential insights for researchers, teachers, and learners Show less
In the 19th century an African possession cult called zār arrived in Egypt and became hugely popular. Jewellery formed an integral part of this cult. Currently, zār jewellery items are sought-after... Show moreIn the 19th century an African possession cult called zār arrived in Egypt and became hugely popular. Jewellery formed an integral part of this cult. Currently, zār jewellery items are sought-after collectors’ items for both private collectors and museums. Silver of the Possessed places jewellery of the Egyptian zār in its cultural and historical context and addresses Egyptian zār jewellery from multiple angles. First, it analyses how our current understanding of this jewellery has evolved through collecting and publishing. Examining its cultural background in African possession cults results in a new insight of the many roles jewellery played in zār, observing jewellery as a financial asset allows us to grasp its implications for household economy dynamics, while looking at jewellery in a diachronic perspective may even reveal changes in the ritual itself. Finally, this study explores its potential as an actual historic source: these jewellery items shed light on the world view of their wearers, and as such form an unexpected additional source for late 19th and early 20th century Egypt. Show less
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is the most important cause of vision loss premature infants. With a continuous growth in this vulnerable population, the number of newborns at risk for severe,... Show moreRetinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is the most important cause of vision loss premature infants. With a continuous growth in this vulnerable population, the number of newborns at risk for severe, sight threatening ROP increases. In this thesis the results of the national Dutch inventory on risk factors, screening, treatment and sequelae of ROP are presented. The principal aims of the study were to determine characteristics of newborns who are at highest risk to develop severe ROP to assess quality of screening and treatment and to evaluate the national ROP guideline. Following these studies together with extensive cost-effectiveness analyses, the current Dutch ROP screening and treatment guideline was adapted and implemented in November 2023. The NEDROP 2 allowed for more stringent screening inclusion criteria, lowering the number of infants that need to undergo burdensome screening under the precondition that no severe ROP would be missed. Annually, this will lower the screening costs by nearly 60,000 euros. Show less
Protein posttranslational modifications by small ubiquitin-like modifiers (SUMOs) are critical for regulating a variety of cellular processes. Dysregulation of SUMOylation is increasingly... Show moreProtein posttranslational modifications by small ubiquitin-like modifiers (SUMOs) are critical for regulating a variety of cellular processes. Dysregulation of SUMOylation is increasingly associated with cancer and inhibitors that block SUMOylation are currently being explored as cancer treatment. We aimed to gain a better understanding of how the SUMO system governs the integrated network of nuclear signaling pathways, with a specific focus on genome maintenance. For this, we combined unbiased global mass spectrometry-based proteomics approaches with mechanistic follow-up studies. We found that the SUMO protease SENP6 maintains genome stability by ensuring the timely removal of SUMO chains on proteins involved in the response to DNA damage, affecting their localization, kinetics and nuclear condensation state. In addition, we found that noncovalent protein interactions with SUMOs mediated by SUMO-interaction motifs (SIMs) are also critical in maintaining genome stability, by facilitating the recruitment of DNA damage response proteins to the sites of damage. Lastly, we offer valuable new insights on noncovalent SUMO interactions by providing a comprehensive dataset of proteins that bind SUMO independently of the classical SUMO-SIM interaction. This suggests that the relevance of alternate modes of SUMO interactions is currently underestimated by the field and opens up new avenues for future research. Show less
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological disorder that develops following exposure to perceived life-threatening trauma. Characteristic features include behavioral changes caused by... Show morePosttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological disorder that develops following exposure to perceived life-threatening trauma. Characteristic features include behavioral changes caused by heightened arousal, including fear and anxiety. Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) hypersensitivity, as defined by strong negative feedback, has been one of the most robust findings of altered HPA axis function in PTSD. In this thesis, we evaluated GR-related changes that were exposed to the three consecutive stressors of the single prolonged stress (SPS) animal model for PTSD. We tested the potential of the GR antagonist RU486 treatment in reversing these stress-induced effects. We found that GR antagonism can normalize some stress-induced parameters. We demonstrated that varying the timing of RU486 administration and evaluation gave different behavioral results and dynamics of gene expression, that revealed complex interactions between stress and RU486 over time. We also tested the GR sensitivity after administered the exogenous corticosterone. Our data suggest the enhanced stress responsiveness after SPS to moderate but not mild stressors and a sensitization of brain GR signaling that extends beyond direct negative feedback regulation. Lastly, we provide evidence for a role of β-arrestin-2 as a modulator of regulating amygdala activity in response to fear/anxious memory of PTSD. Show less
In this thesis, we have studied cell images from two types of cells, including pollen grains and the immune cells, neutrophils. These images are captured using a bright field microscope and a... Show moreIn this thesis, we have studied cell images from two types of cells, including pollen grains and the immune cells, neutrophils. These images are captured using a bright field microscope and a confocal microscope. We aim to analyze the insight in the understanding of the content of these images. In order to do these analyses, we need computational methods. The two main tasks are the classification of pollen images and the dynamic analysis of neutrophils through tracking in time-lapse sequences. In this study, we have demonstrated the use of deep learning methods for different kinds of cell imagery and shown the potential for future use while illustrating pitfalls, but also presenting efficient new algorithmic approaches. Show less
The circadian system has evolved to benefit the fitness of the organism. A properly functioning clock improves overall performance and promotes health. By gaining more knowledge about how the... Show moreThe circadian system has evolved to benefit the fitness of the organism. A properly functioning clock improves overall performance and promotes health. By gaining more knowledge about how the system works and responds to changes, therapies can be developed to promote the functioning of the circadian system. In this thesis, the response of the circadian system to changes in daylength (e.g. long summer days and short winter days was investigated. In addition the functioning of the circadian system with aging was investigated. This is relevant since aging is known to be accompanied by a weakening of the circadian system in humans, which has been associated with deterioration of a number of age-related conditions such as arteriosclerosis, type 2 diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. In addition, a large proportion of the elderly will experience fragmentation of sleep, meaning that people have difficulty sleeping at night, while during the day they are very sleepy. Promoting the circadian rhythm with relatively simple interventions, such as correctly timed exposure to (day) light, physical activity and food intake can support the circadian system and promote general health. Show less
Vascular diseases pose a significant burden on society, mainly due to the lack of effective treatment methods. A major reason for this is the shortcomings of current preclinical model systems. In... Show moreVascular diseases pose a significant burden on society, mainly due to the lack of effective treatment methods. A major reason for this is the shortcomings of current preclinical model systems. In this study, we have taken steps toward developing a more complex and relevant model system for (brain) blood vessels to address this issue. We used human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) in the lab as a cellular source to generate the different types of cells needed for stable blood vessels. These cells were then combined in 3D microscopic culture environments (so-called vessel-on-chip systems) to closely mimic physiological conditions. Using this model, we were able to demonstrate specific abnormalities in a hereditary vascular disease, which was not possible with more 'traditional' culture methods. Additionally, we included brain cells to better investigate brain-specific disorders in the future. This work lays the essential foundation for a better understanding and treatment of complex vascular diseases, while potentially reducing the number of animal models needed. Show less
Both underuse as well as overuse of medical services is associated with poor outcomes in healthcare. Underuse includes the failure to use effective medical interventions, where overuse refers to... Show moreBoth underuse as well as overuse of medical services is associated with poor outcomes in healthcare. Underuse includes the failure to use effective medical interventions, where overuse refers to providing low value medical services. This could be described as services that are more likely to cause harm, waste resources or could lead to unnecessary healthcare costs. To improve quality of care and to create a sustainable healthcare system, it is essential to prevent underuse of effective medical care and to reduce the use of low value care by implementation and de-implementation initiatives. Implementation can be described as the planned process to introduce or to improve the use of medical interventions with the aim that those medical interventions are given a structural place within care practice. In de-implementation, the use of low value medical interventions is reduced or stopped on a structural basis in a planned process. The aim of this thesis was to extend the knowledge on effective strategies for de-implementation of low value care and the implementation of underused medical services in orthopedic surgery as well as in nursing practice. Show less
In this thesis, we identified several novel modulators of TGF-β/SMAD signaling. We studied the role of these modulators in TGF-β-induced EMT and migration in breast and lung cancer cells, and... Show moreIn this thesis, we identified several novel modulators of TGF-β/SMAD signaling. We studied the role of these modulators in TGF-β-induced EMT and migration in breast and lung cancer cells, and elucidated the mechanisms by which they fine-tune TGF-β/SMAD signaling transduction. These studies contribute to a better understanding of the regulatory networks of TGF-β signaling and may offer new therapeutic potentials to target TGF-β signaling in patients with breast or lung cancer. Show less
This dissertation is a call to place the health of adults with autistic traits and autism-caregivers higher on the agenda of clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and autistic adults and autism... Show moreThis dissertation is a call to place the health of adults with autistic traits and autism-caregivers higher on the agenda of clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and autistic adults and autism-caregivers themselves. Primarily, clinicians should be educated about the increased health risks in autistic adults and autism-caregivers, in order to be able to prevent or recognize these comorbidities timely. This is relevant because of the higher prevalence of both metabolic syndrome and gastrointestinal symptoms in adults from the general population with higher levels of autistic traits, as shown in this dissertation. The associations we found between biopsychosocial factors and respectively metabolic syndrome and gastrointestinal symptoms ask for more psychiatric and somatic integrated care for autistic adults. Future research could use the associations we found between the biopsychosocial model and autistic traits to develop preventive interventions specifically targeted for adults with autism (or higher levels of autistic traits). To make sure future preventive measures and the treatment of physical health problems are effective for this target population to improve their health, barriers in the healthcare for autistic people should be reduced. Therefore, this dissertation also offers recommendations for improvement of primary care, the gatekeeper of adequate healthcare for autistic adults. Show less
Rapid technological breakthroughs originating from fundamental microbiology research have yielded novel genome engineering tools that greatly facilitate our ability to modify specific genomic... Show moreRapid technological breakthroughs originating from fundamental microbiology research have yielded novel genome engineering tools that greatly facilitate our ability to modify specific genomic sequences in living cells and organisms. As a corollary, these technologies are also starting to permeate the realm of medicine when applied as a form of “genomic surgery”. These genetic therapies aim at tacking the root cause of human pathologies, inherited or acquired, by correcting or modulating the genetic content or expression, respectively, present in target cells, tissues and organs. To this end, delivery vehicles capable of introducing, in an efficient and safe manner, the increasingly sophisticated (epi)genome editing reagents are in demand, especially when considering in vivo genetic therapies. The research presented in this thesis reveals the feasibility and utility of using regular and high-specificity nicking RGNs for achieving efficient and accurate genetic modification of human cells involving targeted gene knockouts and knock-ins. Moreover, it establishes the suitability of the HC-AdV platform for the versatile investigation of prime editing systems. Finally, this thesis establishes causal relationships between specific chromatin states and the activities and fidelities attained by base editing and prime editing complexes in human cells, which has consequences for their further development and optimal deployment. Show less
The fields of historical performance and contemporary composition may not seem on first impression to share much. Insofar as the former is dedicated to reproducing the oldest music and the latter... Show moreThe fields of historical performance and contemporary composition may not seem on first impression to share much. Insofar as the former is dedicated to reproducing the oldest music and the latter to inventing the newest, they can easily be understood as fundamental opposites. In context of this precise disciplinary opposition, however, this dissertation locates an opportunity for the advancement of both fields through an interdisciplinary practice and theorisation across them. Much cross-polination has certainly occurred between the two fields already, but it has largely been confined to performance spheres. Theorisations across the two remain rare. Key to the productivity of this dissertation is the identification of a complementary pair of analyses coming out of the two fields in the 1980s: critiques of the authenticity of historical performance on the one hand, with Richard Taruskin providing the classic example, and critiques of the possibility of artistic originality on the other, especially by Rosalind Krauss. Viewed independently, each of these critiques can seem to present a vexing impasse. If historical performers cannot reproduce the past, what are they doing and why does it matter? Likewise, if contemporary composers cannot make anything new, the same questions apply. What can one do but acknowledge one’s shortcomings and carry on? As these debates of the 1980s wound down, this is exactly what happened. Each discipline resigned itself to its shortcomings and carried on as if the critiques had never been made. But a reevaluation is worthwhile, as something much more interesting happens when they are viewed across each other. The ontological problems they describe begin to look eerily similar, and a wide array of practices within both disciplines come to look like fundamental syntheses of mimesis and invention, memory and imagination. What previously obscured or devalued types of music might be freshly empowered by renewed attention to this synthesis? Through comparative study of historical theory, critical theory, art theory, Englightenment and anti-Enlightenment philosophy, and the recent histories of historical performance and contemporary composition, alongside artistic experiments in a potent gray space between the two, this dissertation seeks to understand artistry and historicity in relation to broad ontological and epistemological problems of making and remaking in music. Special potency is found in archival manuscripts of long 18th–century Britain containing anonymous, fragmentary, or damaged notation. Through both compositional and interpretive experiments with these historical extracts of music notation, as well as theoretical reflection upon them, novel ways are found for aurally presenting the rich and complex intertemporality of musical practice and its surrounding cultures and histories. Show less
Identifying, targeting, and evaluating the consequences of Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) in young individuals (4-25 years old) are essential elements of medical specialist rehabilitation care for... Show moreIdentifying, targeting, and evaluating the consequences of Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) in young individuals (4-25 years old) are essential elements of medical specialist rehabilitation care for this group. Several knowledge gaps regarding the occurrence and severity of consequences and the delivery of rehabilitation existed.This thesis enhanced the understanding of ABI-related consequences and aimed to optimize rehabilitation care provided to young Dutch individuals with ABI.Section 1 of this thesis investigated the severity and course over 2 years of persisting ABI-related problems in young people with ABI and their families. In this cohort, many problems were found in the domains of Health-related Quality of Life (HRQoL), fatigue, participation, and family impact at time of referral to rehabilitation and these problems tended to persist over time.In section 2, the structure and process of rehabilitation for young patients with ABI across Dutch rehabilitation centers and the development of a national consensus-based framework for clinical practice, including preferred assessments, interventions, and psychoeducation, for young people with ABI was described.This thesis emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to rehabilitation and lays the foundation for future initiatives aiming to further optimize rehabilitation treatment for young individuals with ABI and their families. Show less