This work is concerned with the existence and uniqueness of boundary value problems defined on semi-infinite intervals. These kinds of problems seldom admit exactly known solutions and, therefore, the theoretical information on their well-posedness is essential before attempting to derive an approximate solution by analytical or numerical means. Our utmost contribution in this context is the definition of a numerical test for investigating the existence and uniqueness of solutions of boundary problems defined on semi-infinite intervals. The main result is given by a theorem relating the existence and uniqueness question to the number of real zeros of a function implicitly defined within the formulation of the iterative transformation method. As a consequence, we can investigate the existence and uniqueness of solutions by studying the behaviour of that function. Within such a context the numerical test is illustrated by two examples where we find meaningful numerical results.

To better understand the genes with altered expression caused by infection with the novel coronavirus strain SARS-CoV-2 causing COVID-19 infectious disease, a tensor decomposition (TD)-based unsupervised feature extraction (FE) approach was applied to a gene expression profile dataset of the mouse liver and spleen with experimental infection of mouse hepatitis virus, which is regarded as a suitable model of human coronavirus infection. TD-based unsupervised FE selected 134 altered genes, which were enriched in protein-protein interactions with orf1ab, polyprotein, and 3C-like protease that are well known to play critical roles in coronavirus infection, suggesting that these 134 genes can represent the coronavirus infectious process. We then selected compounds targeting the expression of the 134 selected genes based on a public domain database. The identified drug compounds were mainly related to known antiviral drugs, several of which were also included in those previously screened with an in silico method to identify candidate drugs for treating COVID-19.

This work studies a novel low voltage (<60 V) hybrid system that supports engine boosting and downsizing in addition to start-stop, regenerative braking, and constrained torque assist/regeneration. The hybrid power split supercharger (PSS) shares a 9 kW motor between supercharging the engine or providing hybrid functionalities through a planetary gear set, a brake and a bypass valve. The PSS operation is limited to only one of the parallel hybrid or boosting modes at a time, necessitating a highly optimized decision making algorithm to select the device mode and power split ratio. In this work an adaptive equivalent consumption minimization strategy (A-ECMS) is developed for energy management of the PSS. The A-ECMS effectiveness is compared against a dynamic programming (DP) solution with full drive cycle preview through hardware-in-the-loop experiments on an engine dynamometer testbed. The experiments show that the PSS with A-ECMS reduces a vehicle fuel consumption by 18.4% over standard FTP75 cycle compared to a baseline turbocharged engine, while global optimal DP solution decreases the fuel consumption by 22.8% compared to baseline.

Acknowledging the diverse perceptions about science-religion relationships among learners who come from various religious environments may increase learners’ willingness to learn about evolution. This study is based on a zoology course designed for in-service teachers, which aimed to provide basic scientific knowledge about evolution using the Religious Cultural Competence in Evolution Education framework. The study explores whether learners who were resistant to evolution modify their attitudes and willingness to learn about it, and whether they develop respect toward learners who hold contradicting views. Using qualitative methods, the findings indicate that using the Religious Cultural Competence in Evolution Education framework increased some formerly "resistant" learners’ willingness to learn about evolution and include it in their own teaching, albeit in varying degrees and with various reservations. The learners appreciated the freedom to express their challenges concerning evolution learning or teaching and became more willing to respect opposing perspectives, even though not all the religious learners accepted evolution as an explanation for the development of organisms. This study has international implications for bridging the gap between science and religion, thus reducing resistance to learning and teaching about evolution.

Downregulated microRNA-142-3p signaling contributes to the pathogenesis of endometriosis [1] [2], an invasive disease where the lining of the uterus grows at ectopic locations, by yet incompletely understood mechanisms. Using bioinformatics and in vitro assays, this study identifies cytoskeletal regulation and integrin signaling as two relevant categories of miR-142-3p targets. qPCR revealed that miR-142-3p upregulation in St-T1b cells downregulates ROCK2, CFL2, RAC1, WASL and ITGAV. qPCR and Western-blotting showed miR-142-3p effect on WASL and ITGAV was significant also in primary endometriotic stroma cells. Luciferase reporter assays in ST-T1b cells then confirmed direct regulation of ITGAV and WASL. On the functional side, miR-142-3p upregulation significantly reduced ST-T1b cell size, the size of vinculin plaques, migration through fibronectin-coated transwell filters and the ability of ST-T1b and primary endometriotic stroma cells to contract collagen I gels. These results suggest that miR-142-3p has a strong mechanoregulatory effect on endometrial stroma cells and its external administration reduces the invasive endometrial phenotype. Within the limits of an in vitro investigation, our study provides new mechanistic insights into the pathogenesis of endometriosis and provides a perspective for the development of miR-142-3p based drugs for inhibiting invasive growth of endometriotic cells.

Aims: To report on the clinico-pathological features of a series of 12 intra-oral mucoepidermoid carcinomas showing exclusive intra-cystic growth. Methods and methods: All mucoepidermoid carcinomas diagnosed in the period 1990-2012 were retrieved, the original histological preparations were reviewed to confirm the diagnosis, and from selected cases, showing exclusive intra-cystic neoplastic component, additional sections were cut at 3 subsequent 200m intervals and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin, PAS and Alcian Blue, to possibly identify tumor invasion of the adjacent tissues, which could have been overlooked in the original histological preparations. Also, pertinent findings collected from the clinical charts and follow-up data were analyzed. Results: We identified 14 intraoral mucoepidermoid carcinomas treated by conservative surgery and with a minimum follow up of 5 years. The neosplasm were located in the hard palate (9 cases), the soft palate (2), the cheeck (2) and the retromolar trigone (1). In all instances histological examination was revealed the presence of a single cystic space, containing clusters of columnar, intermediate, epidermoid, clear and mucous-producing cells, the latter exhibiting distinct intra-cytoplasmic mucin production, as confirmed by PAS and Alcian Blue stains. The cysts were entirely circumscribed by fibrous connective tissue and no solid areas or infiltrating tumour clusters were detected. Conservative surgical resection was performed in all cases and no recurrences or nodal metastases were observed during the follow up period. Conclusions: Mucoepidermoid carcinomas showing prominent (>20%) intra-cystic proliferation currently are considered low-grade tumours. In addition, we also unveil the possibility that mucoepidermoid carcinomas, at least in their early growth phase, may display an exclusive intra-cystic fashion and might be considered as in situ carcinomas, unable to infiltrate adjacent tissues or metastasize.

We study the center of energy (CE) before and after the separation of superposed wave from a moving medium (MM). It is assumed that two out-of-phase mechanical transverse waves propagating from the opposite directions on a medium moving at non-relativistic speeds are superposed and the superposed portion (SP) is separated from the MM at that moment. We consider the CE of the SP before and after the separation from the MM. The location of CE (LCE) of the SP seems to be at the center of it at the moment of superposition. The SP rotates due to the separation from the MM since the velocity of each portion symmetric with respect to the center of the SP is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. The magnitudes of velocities of the symmetric portions become different as soon as the SP begins to rotate with the separation from the MM. Then the energies of their symmetric portions are not the same, so the LCE of the SP is not at the center of it. As a result, the LCE of it looks different before and after the separation from the MM. We must find a solution to keep the LCE of the SP constant. We propose that two out-of-phase mechanical transverse waves (MTWs) propagating from the opposite directions on a MM originally have hidden difference in relativistic energy and it suddenly appears within the range observable in Newtonian mechanics when the SP starts rotating. This means that the point of view of hidden difference in relativistic energy is necessary to keep the LCE constant.

There is a strong anticipated future for human pluripotent stem cell-derived hepatocytes (hiPS-HEP), but so far their use has been limited due to insufficient functionality. We investigated the potential of hiPS-HEP as an in vitro model for metabolic diseases by combining transcriptomics with multiple functional assays. The transcriptomics analysis revealed that 86% of the genes were expressed at similar levels in hiPS-HEP as in human primary hepatocytes (hphep). Adult characteristics of the hiPS-HEP were confirmed by the presence of important hepatocyte features, e.g. Albumin secretion and expression of major drug metabolizing genes. Normal energy metabolism is crucial for modeling metabolic diseases, and both transcriptomics data and functional assays showed that hiPS-HEP were similar to hphep regarding uptake of glucose, LDL and fatty acids. Importantly, the inflammatory state of the hiPS-HEP was low under standard conditions, but in response to lipid accumulation and ER stress the inflammation marker TNFα was upregulated. Furthermore, hiPS-HEP could be co-cultured with primary hepatic stellate cells both in 2D and in 3D spheroids, paving the way for using these co-cultures for modeling NASH. Taken together, hiPS-HEP have the potential to serve as an in vitro model for metabolic diseases. Furthermore, differently expressed genes identified in this study can serve as targets for future improvements of the hiPS-HEP.

Low-temperature processed ITO thin films offer the potential of overcoming the doping limit by suppressing the equilibrium of compensating oxygen interstitial defects. To elucidate this potential, electrical properties of Sn-doped In₂O₃ (ITO) thin films are studied in dependence on film thickness. In-operando conductivity and Hall effect measurements during annealing of room temperature deposited films with different film thickness in different environments allow to discriminate between the effects of crystallization, grain growth, donor activation and oxygen diffusion on carrier concentrations and mobilities. At 200 °C, a control of carrier concentration by oxygen incorporation or extraction is only possible for very thin films. The electrical properties of thicker films deposited at room temperature are mostly affected by grain size. The remaining diffusivity of compensating oxygen defects at 200 °C is sufficient to screen the high Fermi level induced by deposition of Al₂O₃ using atomic layer deposition (ALD), which disables the use of defect modulation doping at this temperature. The results indicate that achieving higher carrier concentrations requires a control of the oxygen pressure during deposition in combination with seed layers to enhance crystallinity or the use of near room temperature ALD.

The Late Bronze Age on the territory of Southern Transurals is represented by two major archeological cultures: Srubnaya and Andronovskaya (Alakul culture and Fyodorovskaya – type). Their interaction of constitutes a special mix of material cultures which preserves common features of two independent, Srubnaya and Andronovskaya cultures, but also creates novel local material features. These cultural groups are also known to have brought to the region the technology of bronze production. This is evidenced, amongst others, by the proximity of the largest copper mining in the region, Kargaly mines Chernykh (2002). New methods to produce ceramics and to work bones were also developed, combining two traditions, coming from Srubnaya and Andronovskaya cultures respectively. Importantly, the features of these cultures are commonly encountered together in a single cultural horizon across the distribution ares. These diffusion processes took place in a vast area (more than 120,000 km²) andwere reflected in archeological micro-district of the Urshak river basin. We present here the most recent results of the scientific examination of the Late Bronze Age settlements in southern Transurals and attempt to address a peculiar cultural co-habitation of two distinct cultural groups in this region. We also discuss their synchronism based on absolute dates and elaborate on this cultural syncretism in the entire territory of the Volga-Ural region.

In the context of the increasing migration into Germany that has taken place in recent years and German efforts to establish an inclusive school system, which enables learners from different religious, ethnic, language and social backgrounds with and without disabilities to participate, religious education has become a key topic for interdisciplinary discourse between theology, philosophy, and pedagogy in German schools. The following questions are of special interest: How can we manage diversity in inclusive classroom settings in general, and specifically: how can we do so with regard to worldview diversity? Does worldview diversity in schools exist, and if so, how can we recognize it in its plurality and complexity? How can we acknowledge different worldviews in the context of a changing inclusive school system? In this article, we would like to present the theoretical foundation, the research setting and the first findings of our ongoing pilot studies of worldview education at an inclusive German school. The experiments are part of a larger project context that is also described. The case study presented in this article, in which innovative language and machine learning technology was used for data analysis, illustrates the potential of inclusive methods and didactic concepts such as Universal Design for Learning [1], Learning in the Presence of the Other [2,3] and Reflexive Inclusion [4] for inclusive worldview education in the context of a religiously pluralized and secularized society.

The alignment of nanostructures in materials such as lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs) templated materials has the potential to signicantly improve their performances. However, accurately characterising and quantifying the alignement of such fine structures remains very challenging. In situ small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and molecular dynamics were employed for the first time to understand the hexagonal LLC alignment process with magnetic nanoparticles under a magnetic field. The enhanced alignment has been illustrated from the distribution of azimuthal intensity in the samples exposed to magnetic field. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal the relationship between the imposed force of the magenetic nanoparticles under magnetic field and the force transferred to the LLC cylinders which leads to the LLC alignment. The combinational study with experimental measurement and computational simulation will enable the development and control of nanostructures in novel materials for various applications.

This article makes a general analysis of the supply chain of photovoltaic systems in Colombia, taking as a starting point a conceptual base and the current situation of the country in this sector. This article especially will contemplate the non-interconnected areas (ZNI) to the electricity grid in the national, due to its complexity in the logistics issues. Likewise, the work performs a graphical representation of the stages and processes of the supply chain using a powerful-modeled tool such as the Petri Nets (PNs). Finally, it identifies some of the flaws in the operation and the joint of all the links of the logistic part and from there it is based the importance of the strategy of orientation to the supply chain (SCO) as a possible alternative to improve and to enhance the logistic processes of this type of systems.

Since their discovery in 1993, numerous microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified in humans and other eukaryotic organisms, and their role as key regulators of gene expression is still being elucidated. It is now known that miRNAs not only play a central role in the processes that ensure normal development and physiology, but they are often dysregulated in various diseases. In this review, we present an overview of the role of miRNAs in normal renal development and physiology, in maladaptive renal repair after injury, and in the pathogenesis of renal parenchymal diseases. In addition, we describe methods used for their detection and their potential as therapeutic targets. Continued research on renal miRNAs will undoubtedly improve our understanding of diseases affecting the kidneys and may also lead to new therapeutic agents.

The first part of this paper contains a brief description of the beginnings of modern cosmology, which, the author will argue, was most likely born in the Year 1912. Some of the pieces of evidence presented here have emerged from recent research in the history of science, and are not usually shared with the general audiences in popular science books. In special, the issue of the correct formulation of the original Big Bang concept, according to the precise words of Fred Hoyle, is discussed. Too often, this point is very deficiently explained (when not just misleadingly) in most of the available generalist literature. Other frequent uses of the same words, Big Bang, as to name the initial singularity of the cosmos, and also whole cosmological models, are then addressed, as evolutions of its original meaning. Quantum and inflationary additions to the celebrated singularity theorems by Penrose, Geroch, Hawking and others led to subsequent results by Borde, Guth and Vilenkin. And corresponding corrections to the Einstein field equations have originated, in particular, R², f(R), and scalar-tensor gravities, giving rise to a plethora of new singularities. For completeness, an updated table with a classification of the same is given.

Cropland area per capita and pressure index on cropland is the important parameters measuring the social vulnerability and sustainability in the perspective of food security in a certain region in China during the historical periods. This study reconstructs the spatial distribution change of cropland area per labor/household and pressure index on cropland during the 17th-20th century by the methods of historical documents, regression analysis, pressure index model and GIS. Then it analyzed the impacting process of climate change and sustainability of cropland use during the different periods. It draws conclusions: (i) the spatial difference of labor/household density was obvious which had the same pattern as cropland distribution during the same periods, which is higher density in three agricultural areas. (ii) Cropland area per capita was relatively higher during the 17th-18th century, which were above 0.4 ha/person in majority counties and distributed homogenously. Till the 19th century and the beginning of 20th century, cropland area per capita in large amount of regions decreased below 0.2 ha/person embodying the increase of social vulnerability and unsustainability at that time. (iii) Pressure index on cropland also showed the similar spatial pattern as cropland area per capita which presented lower threshold than nowadays. During the 17th-18th century there was no pressure on cropland. While, in the 19th century and at the beginning of 20th century, two high value centers of pressure index on cropland appeared in Middle Shandong and the Jiaodong region, pressure on sustainable cropland use increased obviously and a food crisis is probably created. (iv) Higher sustainable extent of cropland use corresponds to cold period, and lower sustainable extent of cropland use corresponds to warm period in Shandong over the past 300 years. The turning point of 1680s from dry to wet attributes to the decrease of sustainable extent of cropland use in Shandong not very distinctively. More and more pressure on sustainability of cropland use finally since the beginning of 20th century would intensify the social conflict and increase the probability of social revolts.

The present work aims to demonstrate that colloidal dispersions of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles stabilized with dextran macromolecules placed in an alternating magnetic field can not only produce heat, but also that these particles could be used in vivo for local and non-invasive deposition of a thermal dose sufficient to trigger thermo-induced gene expression. Iron oxide nanoparticles were first characterized in vitro on a bio-inspired setup, and then they were assayed in vivo using a transgenic mouse strain expressing the luciferase reporter gene under transcriptional control of a thermosensitive promoter. Iron oxide nanoparticles dispersions were applied topically on the mouse skin or injected sub-cutaneously with Matrigel™ to generate so called pseudo tumors. Temperature was monitored continuously with a feedback loop to control the power of the magnetic field generator and to avoid overheating. Thermo-induced luciferase expression was followed by bioluminescence imaging 6 hours after heating. We showed that dextran-coated magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles dispersions were able to induce in vivo mild hyperthermia compatible with thermo-induced gene expression in surrounding tissues and without impairing cell viability. These data open new therapeutic perspectives for using mild magnetic hyperthermia as non-invasive modulation of tumor microenvironment by local thermo-induced gene expression or drug release.

Tussilago farfara L. is a traditional medicinal plant valued for its potentially health-promoting metabolites. Its herbal raw material has been recognized and used since ancient times and continues to be widely used in traditional medicine. Introducing these plants to in vitro cultivation is a challenging task, but once the protocol is developed, such cultures can provide an abundant and inexhaustible source of plant material. In this study, we report the successful induction and growth of vigorous T. farfara L. callus in vitro. Callus induction was achieved on solid media in darkness, whereas it appeared inefficient under light conditions and in suspension culture. We present a detailed description of callus growth kinetics, morphological analysis, photosynthetic activity and biochemical parameters (including protein content and photosynthetic pigments) supported by histological studies. Furthermore, we observed potential for organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis. This method for in vitro propagation of T. farfara, along with callus culture maintenance, offers a wide range of applications in pharmacy and could benefit the environment by minimizing the depletion of natural populations of this species.

In this paper, we present a theory of gravity in Minkowski space. The basic idea is that the presence of mass affects the worldline of particles in the flat Minkowski background. Although General Relativity is in complete agreement with observations so far, the theory discussed in this paper is capable of solving some of the conceptual difficulties of GR, such as the energy problem, and is at the core of constructing this theory. We also discuss the cosmic expansion of the present universe and comment on the early universe. We also argue how the flatness problem and horizon problem are solved within this framework. As it will become clear, this is a theory of principle and not a theory of construction.

Coronaviruses (CoVs) have recently emerged as significant causes of respiratory disease outbreaks. The novel coronavirus pneumonia of 2019, known as COVID-19, are highly infectious and triggered by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Understanding virus-host interactions and molecular targets in host cell death signalling is crucial for treatment development. Small natural compounds like celastrol and curcumin, acting as proteasome inhibitors, can potentially modify NF-κB signalling for treating SARS-CoV-2 infections. Various natural constituents, including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, diarylheptanoids, and anthraquinones, inhibit viral infection, progression, and amplification of coronaviruses. Derived from medicinal herbs, these compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, impacting the viral life cycle, including entry, replication, assembly, and release of COVID-19 virions. This review focuses on the development of small molecules of non-covalent inhibitors targeting the Main Protease (Mpro, also called 3CLpro) enzyme of SARS-CoV-2. It highlights the design using molecular dynamics (MD) studies and computational methods for further improvements in Mpro inhibitor design. The in-silico approach, which is pivotal in this process, provides an accelerated virtual avenue for exploring and developing potential inhibitors, representing the latest advancements in drug design.

Costa Rica, widely acknowledged for its environmental leadership, is now facing a significant challenge in managing waste, a situation that could potentially compromise both its environmental and public health achievements. This analysis delves into the waste management issues in Costa Rica, particularly in urban areas such as San José, responsible for nearly half of the country's waste. The study identifies several pressing concerns, including the heavy burden on landfill capacities, a recycling rate of just 9.6%, and substantial regional differences in waste management practices.To address these challenges, the research employs a combined methodology, utilizing Linear Regression (LR) and AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) models to project future trends in CO2e emissions and waste minimization from 2024 to 2050. This method underscores the vital need for public involvement and the introduction of innovative strategies in waste management. The research also introduces a Waste Management Innovation Index to compare Costa Rica’s practices with those of leading nations like Germany and South Korea, identifying key areas for improvement.Furthermore, the study incorporates insights from stakeholders, revealing the intricate balance of cultural, economic, and regulatory factors that shape waste management policies. Despite efforts by the government, such as the Environmental Health Route and the National Circular Economy Strategy, results show limited progress, particularly in rural regions. The study highlights the urgent need for better infrastructure, targeted public awareness campaigns, and the use of advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain to enhance sustainable waste management practices. The research provides strategic recommendations to help Costa Rica improve its waste management systems in line with international standards, ensuring long-term environmental sustainability and protection of public health.

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a proven treatment for severe aortic stenosis (AS). Transfemoral access is the most prevalent method, achieved either surgically or percutaneously. This study compares in-hospital outcomes and length of stay between surgical cut-down and fully percutaneous approaches. Methods: This retrospective, propensity-matched study analyzed medical records of all patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR at our center from January 2019 to December 2023. Outcomes were assessed based on Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 (VARC-2) consensus criteria. Results: 251 TAVR patients (77 propensity score matching pairs) were included (55% female) with a median (IQR) age of 80 (11) years. Surgical cut-down showed fewer vascular complications, bleeding, and transfusions. No death, stroke, atrial fibrillation (AF), or need for pacemaker was reported in this group. Fewer mean hospitali-zation days were observed in the total cohort over the years (p< 0.001). This reduction was more pronounced after 2021 when the surgical approach was adopted. Mean hospitalization days were 6.40 ±6.46 for percutaneous and 4.34 ±1.61 for surgical groups (p< 0.001). Conclusions: Surgical cut-down for TAVR femoral access yields superior outcomes and shorter hospital stays compared to fully percutaneous methods.

Climbing is an Olympic discipline in full development and multidisciplinary in nature, in which the influence of body composition and nutritional status on performance has not yet been clarified despite the quest for low weight in anti-gravity disciplines such as climbing. The present study aimed to do a nutritional (3-day dietary diaries) and body composition (ISAK profile) assessment of sport climbing athletes of different genders and sport levels. The mean age of the forty-six Spanish climbers (22 men and 24 women) was 30 years (SD: 9) with 7.66 years of experience (SD: 6.63). The mean somatotype of the athletes was classified as balanced mesomorph. Negative correlations were observed between fat mass variables and climbing level (p<0.01), and positive correlations with forearm circumference (p<0.05). Mean energy availability (EA) was 33.01 kcal-kg FFM1-d1 (SD: 9.02), with 55.6% of athletes in suboptimal EA status and 35.6% in low energy availability (LEA) status. Carbohydrate and protein intakes were below recommendations in 57.8% and 31.1% of athletes, respectively. There were deficient intakes of all micronutrients except phosphorus in males. These findings suggest that climbing athletes are at high risk of developing low energy availability states and concomitant problems. Optimal nutritional monitoring may be advisable in this type of athlete to try to reduce the risk of LEA.

Our recent analysis of empirical limit order flow data in financial markets reveals a power-law distribution in limit order cancellation times. These times are modeled using a discrete probability mass function derived from the Tsallis q-exponential distribution, closely aligned with the second form of the Pareto distribution. We elucidate this distinctive power-law statistical property through the lens of agent heterogeneity in trading activity and asset possession. Our study introduces a novel modeling approach that combines fractional Lévy stable motion for limit order inflow with this power-law distribution for cancellation times, significantly enhancing the prediction of order imbalances. This model not only addresses gaps in current financial market modeling but also extends to broader contexts such as opinion dynamics in social systems, capturing the finite lifespan of opinions. Characterized by stationary increments and a departure from self-similarity, our model provides a unique framework for exploring long-range dependencies in time series. This work paves the way for more precise financial market analyses and offers new insights into the dynamic nature of opinion formation in social systems.

A novel five-surface phosphor-in-glass (FS-PiG) for high illumination and excellent color uniformity in larger-scale LEDs for sensor light source application is demonstrated. YAG phosphor (Y3Al5O12:Ce3+) was uniformly mixed with ceramic and sintered at 680°C to form a phosphor wafer. A sophisticated laser engraving was employed on the phosphor wafer to form a saddle-shaped large-scale FS-PiG LEDs. The performance of the FS-PiG LEDs exhibited the illumination of 401lm, average color temperature (CCT) of 5488K±110K, and color coordinates (CIE) of (0.3179±0.003, 0.3352±0.003). In contrast to convention single-surface phosphor-in-glass (SS-PiG) LEDs, the performance exhibited the illumination of 380lm, average CCT of 5830K±758K, and CIE of (0.3083±0.07, 0.3172±0.07). These indicated that the performance of the FS-PiG LEDs was higher than the SS-PiG LEDs for illumination, CCT, and CIE of 1.7, 7, and 23 times, respectively. Furthermore, the FS-PiG LEDs demonstrate lower lumen loss of 2% and less chromaticity shift of 5.4x10-3 under accelerated aging at 350°C for 1008 hours, owing to the high ceramic melting temperature of up to 510°C. In this study, the proposed FS-PiG larger-scale LEDs having excellent optical performance and high reliability may be the promising candidates to replace the convention phosphor-in-organic silicone material used in high-power LEDs for the next generation of sensor light sources, display, and headlight applications.

In this paper, we introduce a control method for the linear quadratic tracking (LQT) problem with zero steady-state error. It is achieved by augmenting the original system with an additional state representing the integrated error between the reference and actual outputs. In its essence, it is a linear quadratic integral (LQI) control embedded in a general LQT control framework, with the reference trajectory generated by a linear exogenous system. During the simulative implementation for the specific real-world system Car-in-the-Loop (CiL) test bench, we assume that the 'real' system is completely known. Therefore, for the model-based control, we can have a perfect model identical to the 'real' system. It becomes clear that stable solutions can scarcely be achieved with controller designed with the perfect model of the 'real' system. Contrary, we show that a model learnt via Bayesian Optimization (BO) can facilitate a much bigger set of stable controllers. It exhibits an improved control performance. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this discovery is the first in the LQT related literature.

(max 200 words): The contamination of groundwater is a serious concern for ecosystems and human health. In this regard, biochar represents a promising low-cost and sustainable material for in-situ groundwater remediation. Herein, biochar waste of biomass energy production process derived from pine wood gasification at 950°C was used as active carbonaceous material in combination with different biopolymers: chitosan (CS), alginate (ALG), potato starch (PST), and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) to produce BC@biopolymer composite materials. Different concentrations of biochar (0.3–1.0 g·L-1) and biopolymers (0.2–20.0 g·L-1) were tested and blending mode was used as simple and straightforward strategy to obtain BC composites. Scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), UV-Visible, infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, specific surface area (BET method), pore volume, and pore size distribution (textural parameters), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and ζ-potential were used to investigate the composite chemical structure, stability, and to assess the interaction among counterparts. On optimized formulations, breakthrough tests and batch adsorption isotherms on trichloroethylene (TCE) as a model contaminant were performed to evaluate the capability of composites to be delivered through a porous medium determining the transport properties, (hydrodynamic dispersion retention percentage, and adsorption capacity). This biopolymer-modified biochar holds significant promise as a sustainable and effective solution to address various groundwater pollution challenges.

CRISPR/Cas9 technology is expected to offer novel genome editing-related therapies for various diseases. We previously showed that an adenovirus vector (AdV) possessing eight expression units of multiplex guide RNAs (gRNAs) was obtained with no deletion of these units. Here, we attempted to construct “all-in-one” AdVs possessing expression units of four and eight gRNAs with Cas9 nickase. We expected this to be difficult because extremely high copies of viral genomes during replication may cause severe off-target cleavages of host cells and induce homologous recombination. However, four units in the all-in-one AdV genome were maintained completely intact. For all-in-one AdV containing eight gRNA units, we shortened the U6 promoter of the gRNA expression units and enlarged the E3 deletion in the vector backbone to shorten the AdV genome within the adenovirus packaging limits. The final size of the all-in-one AdV genome containing eight gRNA units still slightly exceeded the reported upper limit. Nevertheless, approximately one-third of the eight units remained intact even upon preparation for in vivo experiments. Although the genome editing efficiency unexpectedly decreased upon enlarging the E3 deletion, our results suggested that all-in-one AdVs containing four and eight intact gRNA units could be obtained if the problems caused by the excessive size of the vector genome are solved.

An emissions baseline for a city is the foundation to building an informed clean air action plan. This includes an understanding of the sources and their intensities to device cost-effective measures with the least health impacts. In an urban environment, emissions from road transport is one of the major contributors to the air pollution problem, and accounting for this sector requires a detailed profile of in-use vehicles, covering their age-mix, usage, and fuel economy. In this paper, we present a simplified framework to survey at select fuel stations to establish the necessary inputs and use them to build a localized vehicle emissions inventory. The methodology is illustrated with an application in the city of Patna, India. Here, the FuSS was employed to profile the in-use passenger vehicle characteristics by 19 trained students, over nine days and at ten fuel stations, to collect 9,775 survey points. The methodology outlined in this paper, along with the tools and training framework, is also replicable in settings other than the fuel stations.

Quasi-bound state in the continuum (QBIC) can effectively enhance the interaction of terahertz (THz) wave with matters due to the tunable high-Q property, which has a strong potential application in detection of low-concentration biological samples in the THz band. In this paper, a novel THz metamaterial sensor with a double-chain separated resonant cavity structure based on QBIC is designed and fabricated. The process of excitation of the QBIC mode is verified and the structural parameters are optimized after considering the ohmic loss by simulations. The simulated refractive index sensitivity of the sensor is up to 544 GHz/RIU, much higher than those of recently reported THz metamaterial sensors. Sensing sensitivity of the proposed metamaterial sensor is confirmed in experiment by detecting low-concentration lithium citrate (LC) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) solutions. The limits of detection (LoDs) are obtained to be 0.0025 mg/mL (12 μM) for LC and 0.03125 mg/mL (0.47 μM) for BSA, respectively, both of which excel over most of reported results in previous studies. These results indicate that the proposed THz metamaterial sensor has excellent sensing performances and can well be applied to the detection of low concentration biological samples.

A novel five-surface phosphor-in-ceramic (FS-PiC) for high illumination and excellent color uniformity in larger-scale LEDs for sensor light source application is demonstrated. YAG phosphor (Y3Al5O12:Ce3+) was uniformly mixed with ceramic and sintered at 680°C to form a phosphor wafer. A sophisticated laser engraving was employed on the phosphor wafer to form a saddle-shaped large-scale FS-PiC LEDs. The performance of the FS-PiC LEDs exhibited the illumination of 401lm, average color temperature (CCT) of 5488K±110K, and color coordinates (CIE) of (0.3179±0.003, 0.3352±0.003). In contrast to convention single-surface phosphor-in-ceramic (SS-PiC) LEDs, the performance exhibited the illumination of 380lm, average CCT of 5830K±758K, and CIE of (0.3083±0.07, 0.3172±0.07). These indicated that the performance of the FS-PiC LEDs was higher than the SS-PiC LEDs for illumination, CCT, and CIE of 1.1, 7, and 23 times, respectively. Furthermore, the FS-PiC LEDs demonstrate lower lumen loss of 2% and less chromaticity shift of 5.4x10-3 under accelerated aging at 350°C for 1008 hours, owing to the high ceramic melting temperature of up to 510°C. In this study, the proposed FS-PiC larger-scale LEDs having excellent optical performance and high reliability may be the promising candidates to replace the convention phosphor-in-organic silicone material used in high-power LEDs for the next generation of sensor light sources, display, and headlight applications.

The classical Lotka-Volterra predator-prey model is globally stable and uniformly persistent. However, in real-life biosystems extinction of species due to stochastic effects is possible. In this paper, we consider the classical Lotka-Volterra predator-prey model under stochastic perturbations. For this model, using an analytical technique based on the direct Lyapunov method and a development of the ideas of R.Z. Khasminskii, we find the precise sufficient conditions for the stochastic extinction of one and both species and the precise necessary conditions for the stochastic system persistence. The stochastic extinction occurs via a process known as the stabilization by noise of the Khasminskii type, and, in order to establish the sufficient conditions for extinction, we found the conditions for the stabilization. The analytical results are illustrated by numerical simulations. {\bf Keywords:} stochastic perturbations, white noise, Ito's stochastic differential equation, the Lyapunov functions method, stability in probability, stabilization by noise, stochastic extinction, persistence.

In the dynamic field of mental health care, the nuanced application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) is a pivotal innovation in patient empowerment and service optimization. This study introduces a distinctive online therapy platform that capitalizes on the synergy of NLP and ASR to offer unprecedented levels of interactive and personalized therapeutic interventions. The architecture of our system is meticulously detailed, featuring an ASR component with an impressive Word Error Rate (WER) of 14% when trained on the diverse French subsets of the Mozilla Common Voice dataset, complemented by a high-precision NLP framework skilled in processing and responding to user inputs. The evaluation of our system highlights its efficacy in enhancing therapy sessions and user satisfaction, with an emphasis on the qualitative aspects of user feedback. The paper addresses challenges such as dataset representativeness and language model refinement and articulates the strategic solutions employed to overcome them. The paper concludes with forward-looking perspectives on AI's role in mental health services, advocating for the creation of sophisticated, language-specific datasets and models to satisfy the increasing demands of online therapy, reflecting a growing commitment of patients in the management of their therapy. This research underscores the transformative impact of AI in advancing mental health care into the digital age, representing a significant evolution over existing methodologies.

This paper explores the dynamic intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), focusing on emerging trends in intelligent data analysis and privacy protection. Employing a systematic literature review, we analyze recent advancements and challenges in AI-IoT integration. The paper highlights key developments in sensor data anomaly detection, AI-driven big-data analytics, and IoT-based communication techniques. It delves into the complexities of privacy protection in IoT, examining innovative solutions like federated learning and blockchain technologies. The study also addresses the challenges in AI for IoT, prioritizing the most pressing issues such as data security, ethical implementation, and compliance with regulations like GDPR. The research underscores the need for adaptable solutions that balance technological advancements with privacy and security considerations, setting a path for future exploration in AI-empowered IoT applications.

background: The Islamic Republic of Iran has been under sanctions since 1979. These sanctions were further reinforced between the years 2005 and 2012. This study utilizes available data from Iran post-sanctions to review the impact of economic sanctions on both the mental health and the quality of life of Iranian citizens.Methods: A comprehensive scoping review was conducted to identify studies examining the impact of sanctions on health in Iran. Searches were initiated in 2012 using PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Scientific Information Database (Iranian Database) with keywords such as sanctions, implications, mental health, quality of life, civilian mental health, and Iran. Subsequent to the screening process, secondary reports and letters to the editor were excluded. Only original studies—those collecting data via observation, interviews, surveys, experiments, or literature reviews—were retained for analysis. In addition to these search strategies, reference scanning was undertaken to identify additional articles pertinent to the scope of the current study. This thorough approach facilitated the discovery of relevant and significant articles exploring the effects of sanctions against Iran on the mental health and overall well-being of its civilian population. Following the search, duplicate articles were meticulously identified and removed by the authors. Data were subsequently extracted and summarized, focusing on study characteristics and the observed effects of sanctions on civilian mental health and quality of life in Iran.Result: Out of 165 items identified in the preliminary search, ten articles met the inclusion criteria. These selected articles highlighted the pronounced effects of sanctions on various health-related domains.Conclusion: Since 2012, Iran has been subject to intensified sanctions. There is evidence to suggest that the economic sanctions, imposed by Western nations, and have exerted a negative and detrimental impact on the health of individual Iranians.

We assume that the current mathematical knowledge K is a finite set of statements from both formal and constructive mathematics, which is time-dependent and publicly available. Any theorem of any mathematician from past or present belongs to K. The set K exists only theoretically. Ignoring K and its subsets, sets exist formally in ZFC theory although their properties can be time-dependent (when they depend on K) or informal. In every branch of mathematics, the set of all knowable truths is the set of all theorems. This set exists independently of K. Algorithms always terminate. We explain the distinction between algorithms whose existence is provable in ZFC and constructively defined algorithms which are currently known. By using this distinction, we obtain non-trivial statements on decidable sets X⊆N that belong to constructive and informal mathematics and refer to the current mathematical knowledge on X. This and the next sentence justify the article title. For any empirical science, we can identify the current knowledge with that science because truths from the empirical sciences are not necessary truths but working models of truth about particular real phenomena.

The small-molecule iododiflunisal (IDIF) is a transthyretin (TTR) tetramer stabilizer and acts as a chaperone of the TTR-Amyloid beta interaction. Oral administration of IDIF improves Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)-like pathology in mice, although mechanism of action and pharmacokinetics remain unknown. Radiolabeling IDIF with positron or gamma emitters may aid in the in vivo evaluation of IDIF using non-invasive nuclear imaging techniques. In this work, we report isotopic exchange reaction to obtain IDIF radiolabeled with 18F. [19F/ 18F]exchange reaction over IDIF in dimethylsulfoxide at 160 °C resulted in the formation of [18F]IDIF in 7±3% radiochemical yield in a 20 minutes reaction time, with a final radiochemical purity of >99%. Biodistribution studies after intravenous administration of [18F]IDIF in wild-type mice using positron emission tomography (PET) imaging showed capacity to cross the blood-brain barrier (ca. 1% of injected dose per gram of tissue in the brain at t&gt;10 min post administration), rapid accumulation in the liver, long circulation time and progressive elimination via urine. Our results open opportunities for future studies in larger animal species or human subjects.

Pre-mRNA splicing is an essential process orchestrated by the spliceosome, a dynamic complex assembled stepwise on pre-mRNA. We have previously identified that USH1G protein SANS regulates pre-mRNA splicing by mediating the intra-nuclear transfer of the spliceosomal U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP complex. During this process, SANS interacts with the U4/U6 and U5 snRNP-specific proteins PRPF31 and PRPF6 and regulates splicing, which is disturbed by variants of USH1G/SANS causative for human Usher syndrome (USH) the most common form of hereditary deaf-blindness.Here, we aimed to gain further insight into the molecular interaction of the splicing molecules PRPF31 and PRPF6 to the CENTn domain of SANS using fluorescence resonance energy transfer assays in cells and in silico deep learning-based protein structure predictions. This demonstrates that SANS directly binds via two distinct conserved regions of its CENTn to the two PRPFs. In addition, we provide evidence that these interactions occur sequentially and a conformational change of an intrinsically disordered region to a short α-helix of SANS CENTn2 is triggered by binding of PRPF6. Furthermore, we found that pathogenic variants of USH1G/SANS perturb the binding of SANS to both PRPFs implying a significance for the USH1G pathophysiology.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a representative malignant brain tumor characterized by a dismal prognosis, with survival rates of less than 2 years and high recurrence rates. Despite surgical resection and several alternative treatments, GBM remains a refractory disease due to its aggressive invasiveness and resistance to anticancer therapy. In this report, we explore the role of fibronectin type III domain containing 3B (FNDC3B) and its potential as a prognostic and therapeutic biomarker in GBM. GBM exhibited a significantly higher cancer-to-normal ratio compared to other organs, and patients with high FNDC3B expression had a poor prognosis (p < 0.01). In vitro studies revealed that silencing FNDC3B significantly reduced the expression of Survivin, an apoptosis inhibitor, and also reduced cell migration, invasion, extracellular matrix adhesion ability, and stem cell properties in GBM cells. Furthermore, we identified that FNDC3B regulates PTEN/PI3K/Akt signaling in GBM cells using MetaCore integrated pathway bioinformatics analysis and a proteome profiler phospho-kinase array with sequential western blot analysis. Collectively, our findings suggest FNDC3B as a potential biomarker for predicting GBM patient survival and for the development of treatment strategies for GBM.

Salmonid alphavirus strain 3 is responsible for outbreaks of pancreas disease in salmon and rainbow trout in Norway. Although the extensive amount of research on SAV3 focused mainly on the heart and pancreas (of clinical importance), tropism and pathogenesis studies of the virus in other salmon tissues are limited. Here, we used a combination of RT-qPCR (Q_nsp1 gene) and in situ hybridization (RNAscope®) to demonstrate the tropism of SAV3 in situ in tissues of Atlantic salmon, employing a challenge model (by cohabitation). In addition, as previous results suggested that pseudobranch may harbor the virus, the change in the expression of different immune genes upon SAV3 infection (RT-qPCR) was focused on the pseudobranch in the current study. In situ hybridization detected SAV3 in the heart, pseudobranch, gills, pyloric caeca, and pancreas after virus infection, with the heart ventricle showing the most extensive infection. Furthermore, the detection of the virus at different adipose tissues associated with the internal organs of the salmon, suggests a specific affinity of SAV3 to adipocyte’s components. The innate immune response to SAV3 in the pseudobranch after infection dominated over the adaptive responses, yet it did not mitigate the infection in that tissue. The early detection of SAV3 in the pseudobranch after infection, along with the persistent low infection over the experimental course, suggests a pivotal role of the pseudobranch in SAV3 pathogenesis in Atlantic salmon.

The objective of this research is to analyze metal elements like Na (sodium), Mg (magnesium), Al (aluminum), Si (silicon), Pb (lead), K (potassium), Ca (calcium), and Fe (iron) found in dust particles within two distinct areas from which the sampling has been done. First sampling was taken from the road verge of a highly trafficked road section, while the second sampling was done in a residential garden area 90 m away from the road. Several metal elements have been detected, with a high difference for Silicon Si, which present higher concentrations in the dust sampled from the road verge area. Pb has only been detected in the samples taken from the road verge, which could be explained by residual remnants from old lead gasoline, and wheel weights. Additionally, airborne particulate matter (PM) concentrations have been measured, during the same episode, in comparison between the road verge and the garden area, presenting a substantial difference in the concentration levels, deducing that dense vegetation is protecting and blocking a majority of airborne PM. A literature highlight of health effects of different metal elements and PM concentrations is presented.

Background: The mechanisms underlying the effect of estradiol (E2) on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels are not completely understood, although a role for proprotein con-vertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has been proposed. We aimed to investigate the association between levels of E2, PCSK9 and lipid parameters in premenopausal women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Methods: Healthy women undergoing IVF in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the University General Hospital of Ioannina were recruited. Levels of E2, pro-protein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), total cholesterol (TCHOL), high-density lip-oprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL-C, and triglycerides (TGs) were measured 10 days after ovarian depression (E2min) and 7 days after ovarian stimulation (E2max). Results: A total of 34 consecutive healthy women aged 38 (26-46) years old who underwent a full IVF cycle were included. E2 levels increased by 329.6% from E2min to E2max (108 [47-346] to 464 [241-2471] pg/mL, p<0.05). At the same time, serum PCSK9 levels significantly decreased by 30.8% (245 ± 80 to 170 ± 64 ng/mL, p<0.05). No significant changes in TCHOL, LDL-C, TGs and HDL-C were found (-0.4%, -3.8%, -2.2%, and +5.3%, p >0.05). Conclusions: The increase in endogenous E2 production during an IVF cycle was associated with a significant decrease in serum PCSK9 levels during a 7-day period.

Infectious keratitis (IK) is among the top 5 leading causes of blindness globally. Early diagnosis is key to guide an appropriate therapy to avoid complications such as vision impairment and blindness. Culture of corneal scrapes is the initial diagnostic test to grow and identify the causal organism. Alternative diagnostic tools include imaging such as with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM). OCT’s advantage is its ability to accurately determine the depth and extent of the corneal ulceration, infiltrates and haze; therefore, characterizing the severity and progression of the infection. However, it is not a preferred choice in the diagnostic tool package for infectious keratitis. IVCM is a great aid in the diagnosis of fungal and Acanthamoeba keratitis with overall sensitivities of 66-74% and 80-100%, and specificity of 78-100% and 84-100%, respectively. Recently the use of deep learning (DL) models in IK has been shown to aid diagnosis via image recognition. Most of the studies that have developed DL models to diagnose the different types of IK have utilised photographs from digital camaras, slit-lamp images, or IVCM images. Some studies have used extremely efficient single DL algorithms to train their models and others used ensemble approaches. This technology is likely to assist in the diagnosis of IK in some years. Further work is needed to examine and validate the clinical performance of the DL models in the real-world setting and to evaluate whether this technology improves patient clinical outcomes. The scope of this review was to provide a recent update on the diagnostic imaging tools in IK

In Japan, where the working population is declining, there is a growing expectation that the potential working population will play an active role, and in this context, administrative measures such as the promotion of women's activities have been implemented. However, there is no end to the number of women who leave the workforce after life events such as childbirth or child rearing.　For example, in Fukuoka Prefecture (population 5.1 million) alone, where we are based, it is estimated that there are 43,300 potential female workers. Many of these women have have been employed in the past, but have left the workforce due to childbirth, family care, or other reasons, and still wish to work. However, although this group has potential employment needs, they have not yet engaged in specific job-hunting activities, and thus are on the periphery of the labor market, without access to the current active labor market. There are many promising potential employees there, and support for their career redevelopment and participation in the labor market is required. On the other hand, few studies have been conducted in Japanese prefectures to systematically estimate social value, i.e., to determine the scope of impact on society and the stakeholders. This is an obstacle to the formulation of policies for women's advancement and the establishment of related social projects. This paper is aware of this problem and, based on the support for women seeking to re-enter society (career redevelopment) that the authors are implementing, selects seven prefectures in Kyushu, which is also a wide economic zone, as a support area and estimates the social value to companies and families in these areas by using SROI. As a result, it was derived that if 3,586 individuals were reemployed, the SROI ratio (1:X) X would be 76.1 in the first year of reintegration assistance activities and X would be 313.3 in the fourth year.

This research paper presents an enhanced economic load dispatch (ELD) approach using the Teaching-Learning-Based Optimization (TLBO) algorithm for 10 thermal units, examining the impact of Plug-in Electric Vehicles (PEVs) in different charging scenarios. The TLBO algorithm is utilized to optimize the ELD problem, considering the complexities associated with thermal units. The integration of PEVs in the load dispatch optimization is investigated, and different charging profiles and probability distributions are defined for PEVs in various scenarios, including overall charging profile, off-peak charging, peak charging, and stochastic charging. These tables allow for the modeling and analysis of PEV charging behavior and power requirements within the power system. By incorporating PEVs, additional controllable resources are introduced, enabling more effective load management and grid stability. The comparative analysis showcases the advantages of the TLBO-based ELD model with PEVs, demonstrating the potential of coordinated dispatch strategies leveraging PEV storage and controllability. This paper emphasizes the importance of integrating PEVs into the load dispatch optimization process, utilizing the TLBO algorithm, to achieve economic and reliable power system operation while considering different PEV charging scenarios.

Perception of flavor is a dynamic process during which the concentration of aroma molecules at the olfactory epithelium varies with time as they are released progressively from the food in the mouth during consumption. The release kinetics depends on the food matrix itself, but also on food oral processing, such as mastication behavior and food bolus formation with saliva, for which huge inter-individual variations exist due to physiological differences. Sensory methods, such as time-intensity (TI), or the more recent methods temporal dominance of sensations (TDS) and temporal check-all-that-apply (TCATA), are used to account for the dynamic and time-related aspects of flavor perception. Direct injection mass spectrometry (DIMS) techniques that measure in real-time aroma compounds directly in the nose (nosespace), aimed at obtaining data that reflect the pattern of aroma release in real-time during food consumption, supposed to be representative of perception, have been developed since 25 years. Examples obtained with MS operated in chemical ionization mode at atmospheric or sub-atmospheric pressure (atmospheric pressure chemical ionization APCI or proton transfer reaction PTR) will be given, with emphases on studies conducted with simultaneous dynamic sensory evaluation. Inter-individual variations in terms of aroma release and their relevance for understanding flavor perception will be discussed, as well as evidenced cross-modal interactions.

Skin melanoma presents increasing prevalence and poor outcomes. Progression to aggressive stages is characterized by overexpression of the transcription factor E2F1 and activation of downstream prometastatic gene regulatory networks (GRNs). Appropriate therapeutic manipulation of the E2F1-governed GRNs holds the potential to prevent metastasis however, these networks entail complex feedback and feedforward regulatory motifs among various regulatory layers, which make it difficult to identify druggable components. To this end, computational approaches such as mathematical modeling and virtual screening are important tools to unveil the dynamics of these signaling networks and identify critical components that could be further explored as therapeutic targets. Herein, we integrated a well-established E2F1-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) map with transcriptomics data from E2F1-expressing melanoma cells to reconstruct a core regulatory network underlying aggressive melanoma. Using logic-based in silico perturbation experiments of a core regulatory network, we identified that simultaneous perturbation of Protein kinase B (AKT1) and oncoprotein murine double minute 2 (MDM2) drastically reduces EMT in melanoma. Using the structures of the two protein signatures, virtual screening strategies were performed with the FDA-approved drug library. Thus, by combining drug repurposing and computer-aided drug design techniques, followed by molecular dynamics simulation analysis identified two potent drugs (Cialis and Finasteride) that can efficiently inhibit AKT1 and MDM2 protein signatures respectively, and with better therapeutic properties. We proposed that these two drugs could be considered for the development of therapeutic strategies for the management of aggressive melanoma.

Anti-islet autoantibodies serve as key markers in immune-mediated type 1 diabetes (T1D) and slowly-progressive T1D (SPIDDM), also known as latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA). Autoantibodies to insulin (IAA), glutamic acid decarboxylase (GADA), tyrosine phosphatase-like protein IA-2 (IA-2A), and zinc transporter 8 (ZnT8A) are currently employed in the diagnosis, pathological analysis, and prediction of T1D. GADA can also be detected in non-diabetic patients with autoimmune diseases other than T1D and may not necessarily reflect insulitis. Conversely, IA-2A and ZnT8A serve as surrogate markers of pancreatic β-cell destruction. Combinatorial analysis of these four anti-islet autoantibodies demonstrated that 93-96% of acute-onset T1D and SPIDDM cases were diagnosed as immune-mediated T1D, while the majority of fulminant T1D cases were autoantibody-negative. Evaluating the epitopes and immunoglobulin subclasses of anti-islet autoantibodies help distinguish between diabetes-associated and non-diabetes-associated autoantibodies and is valuable for predicting future insulin deficiency in SPIDDM (LADA) patients. Additionally, GADA in T1D patients with autoimmune thyroid disease reveals the polyclonal expansion of autoantibody epitopes and immunoglobulin subclasses. Recent advancements in anti-islet autoantibody assays include nonradioactive fluid-phase assays and the simultaneous determination of multiple biochemically defined autoantibodies. Developing a high-throughput assay for detecting epitope-specific or immunoglobulin isotype-specific autoantibodies will facilitate more accurate diagnosis and prediction of autoimmune disorders.

Cervical cancer is a significant global health concern, with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection being a crucial risk factor. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an attractive, minimally invasive treatment for HPV-related cervical lesions, which uses photosensitizers and light to selectively de-stroy abnormal cells. We aim to provide an overview of the various sorts of dyes that are utilized in PDT for decreasing the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer. Besides, the article discusses ongoing clinical trials for PDT in low-grade squamous intraepithelial neoplasia (LSIL) and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL), as well as preclinical approaches for PDT in cervical cancer using various dyes. Moreover, it highlights potential dyes for PDT, examine them in in-silico condition, their pros and cons and also the solutions for enhancing their anticancer com-patibility. We also display that PDT is a promising therapeutic strategy for the diagnosis and treatment of HPV-associated cervical lesions. Moreover, it shows that using different classes of dyes improves the anticancer effects of PDT. Finally, among all dyes which are used in PDT, Fullerene demonstrated high tendency to over expressed receptors in cervical cancer cells and seems to be a proper candidate for be used in PDT more than before, but further research is necessary to assess its long-term efficacy and safety.

Emerging RNA virus infections are a growing concern among domestic bird and poultry industries due to the severe impact it can have on the flock health and economic livelihoods. Avian paramyxoviruses (APMV) are pathogenic, negative sense RNA viruses that cause serious infections in the respiratory and central nervous system. APMV was detected in multiple avian species during the 2017 migration season in Ukraine, and studied using PCR, virus isolation, and sequencing. Of the 4090 wild bird samples, eleven swabs were isolated in chicken embryos and identified for APMV serotype by hemagglutinin inhibition test: APMV-1, APMV-4, APMV-6, APMV-7. At a variety of sites in Ukraine we characterized the virulence of the virus and further analyzed and predicted the potential risks of spillover to immunologically naïve populations. RNA was extracted and amplified using a multiplex-tiling primer approach to encompass full cDNA genomes. Full-length APMV-1 (n=5) and APMV-6 (n=2) genomes were sequenced on an Oxford Nanopore MinION device in Ukraine. All APMV-1 and APMV-6 fusion (F) proteins possessed a monobasic cleavage site, suggesting these APMV were likely low virulence, annually circulating strains. Utilization of this low-cost method will identify gaps in viral evolution and circulation in this understudied but important critical region for Eurasia.

We continue in this paper to illustrate the implications of the Dual Model of Liquids (DML) by deriving the expression for the isochoric specific heat as function of the collective degrees of freedom available at a given temperature and analyzing its dependence on temperature. Two main tasks will be accomplished. First, we show that the expression obtained for the isochoric specific heat in the DML is in line with the experimental results. Second, the expression will be compared with the analogous one obtained in another theoretical dual model of the liquid state, the Phonon Theory of Liquid Thermodynamics. This comparison will allow to get interesting insights about the number of collective degrees of freedom available in a liquid and on the value of the isobaric thermal expansion coefficient, two quantities that are related to each other in this framework.

Survivors of severe brain injury may require care in a neurointensive care unit (neuro-ICU), where the brain is vulnerable to secondary brain injury. Thus, there is a need for noninvasive, bedside, continuous cerebral blood flow monitoring approaches in the neuro-ICU. Our goal is to address this need through combined measurements of EEG and functional optical spectroscopy (EEG-Optical) instrumentation and analysis to provide a complementary fusion of data about brain activity and function. The present case demonstrates in a patient with traumatic brain injury, noninvasive cerebral blood flow transients can be recorded that correlate with gold-standard invasive measurements and with the frequency content changes in the EEG data during clinical care.

Wearable and mobile technology has advanced in leaps and bounds in the last decade with technological advances creating a role from enhancing healthy living to monitoring and treating disease. However, the discussion about the ethical use of such commercial technology in the community, especially in minors, is lacking behind. In this paper, we first summarize the major ethical concerns that arise from the usage of commercially available wearable technology in children, with a focus on smart watches, highlighting issues around the consent process, mitigation of risk and potential confidentiality and privacy issues, as well as the potential for therapeutic misconceptions when used without medical advice. Then through a relevant thought experiment we move on to outline some further ethical concerns that are connected to the use of wearables by minors, to wit the issue of informed consent in the case of minors, forcing them to live in the spotlight, and compromising their right to an open future. We conclude with the view that mitigating potential pitfalls and enhancing the benefits of wearable technology especially for minors requires brave and comprehensive moral debates.

This study presents a methodology to reveal traces of viral particles, as aerosol with known chemical and molecular structure, in a sample by means of photon and electron interactions. The method is based on Monte Carlo simulations and on the analysis of photon-electron fluxes-spectra through energy channels counts as a function of different aerosol viral concentrations in the air sample and looking at the peculiar photon/electron interactions with the potential abnormal atomic hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), carbon (C), and phosphorus (P) compositions present in the air sample as a function of living and nonliving matter with PO4 group RNA/DNA strands in a cluster configuration.

COVID-19 is characterized by an unprecedented abrupt increase in the viral transmission rate (SARS-CoV-2) relative to its pandemic evolutionary ancestor, SARS-CoV (2003). The complex molecular cascade of events related to the viral pathogenicity is triggered by the Spike protein upon interacting with the ACE2 receptor on human lung cells through its receptor binding domain (RBD_Spike). One potential therapeutic strategy to combat COVID-19 could thus be limiting the infection by blocking this key interaction. In this current study, we adopt a protein design approach to predict and propose non-virulent structural mimics of the RBD_Spike which can potentially serve as its competitive inhibitors in binding to ACE2. The RBD_Spike is an independently foldable protein domain, resilient to conformational changes upon mutations and therefore an attractive target for strategic re-design. Interestingly, in spite of displaying an optimal shape fit between their interacting surfaces (attributed to a consequently high mutual affinity), the RBD_Spike–ACE2 interaction appears to have a quasi-stable character due to a poor electrostatic match at their interface. Structural analyses of homologous protein complexes reveal that the ACE2 binding site of RBD_Spike has an unusually high degree of solvent-exposed hydrophobic residues, attributed to key evolutionary changes, making it inherently ‘reaction-prone’. The designed mimics aimed to block the viral entry by occupying the available binding sites on ACE2, are tested to have signatures of stable high-affinity binding with ACE2 (cross-validated by appropriate free energy estimates), overriding the native quasi-stable feature. The results show the apt of directly adapting natural examples in rational protein design, wherein, homology-based threading coupled with strategic ‘hydrophobic ↔ polar’ mutations serve as a potential breakthrough.

The COVID-19 infections in Pakistan are spreading at an exponential rate and a point may soon be reached where rigorous prevention measures would need to be adopted. Mathematical models can help define the scale of an epidemic and the rate at which an infection can spread in a community. I used ARIMA Model, Diffusion Model, SIRD Model and Prophet Model to forecast the magnitude of the COVID-19 pandemic in Pakistan and compared the numbers with the reported cases on the national database. Results depicts that Pakistan could hit peak number of infectious cases between June 2020 and July, 2020.

The study investigates the determinants of mobile Internet banking adoption among Gen-Y in Malaysia. Align the issue of the study and research objectives, and the study underpinned Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as the main guideline or a blueprint to analyze the research model. The study applied survey research design and analyzed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) under the PLS-SEM technique with SmartPLS 2.0. A total of 358 mobile internet banking users in Malaysia were random proportional selected as respondents and analyzed. Results from the partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) revealed that perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, facilitating condition, and personal innovativeness in IT have significantly influenced the attitude of mobile internet banking adoption in Malaysia. Additionally, perceived ease of use and facilitating conditions found to have a significant influence on the perceived usefulness of Mobile Internet Banking. Lastly, facilitating conditions and personal innovativeness in IT are significantly influence the perceived ease of use of mobile internet banking among Gen-Y in Malaysia

We analyzed the peak spring tidal current speeds, annual mean tidal power densities (TPD) and annual energy production (AEP) obtained from experiment 06.1, referred as the "HYCOM model" throughout, of the three dimensional (3D), global model HYCOM in an area covering the Baja California Pacific and the Gulf of California. The HYCOM model is forced with astronomical tides and surface winds alone, and therefore is particularly suitable to assess the tidal current and wind-driven current contribution to in-stream energy resources. We find two areas within the Gulf of California, one in the Great Island Region and one in the Upper Gulf of California, where peak spring tidal flows reach speeds of 1.1 meters per second. Second to fifth-generation tidal stream devices would be suitable for deployment in these two areas, which are very similar in terms of tidal in-stream energy resources. However, they are also very different in terms of sediment type and range in water depth, posing different challenges for in-stream technologies. The highest mean TPD value when excluding TPDs equal or less than 50 W/m² (corresponding to the minimum velocity threshold for energy production) is of 172.8 W/m², and is found near the town of San Felipe, at (lat lon) = (31.006 -114.64); here energy would be produced during 39.00% of the time. Finally, wind-driven currents contribute very little to the mean TPD and the total AEP. Therefore, the device, the grid, and any energy storage plans need to take into account the periodic tidal current fluctuations, for optimal exploitation of the resources.

We compare Chiral Perturbation Theory (ChPT) and the Linear Sigma Model (LSM) as realizations of low energy QCD for light mesons in a chirally imbalanced medium. The relations between the low-energy constants of the Chiral Lagrangian and the corresponding constants of the Linear Sigma Model are established as well as the expressions for the decay constant of $\pi $-meson in the medium and for the mass of the $a_0$. In the large $N_c$ count taken from QCD the correspondence of ChPT and LSM is remarkably good and give a solid ground for search of chiral imbalance manifestation in pion physics. A possible experimental detection of chiral imbalance (and therefore a phase with Local Parity Breaking) is outlined in the charged pion decays inside the fireball.

Recently, several research groups have reported on anomalous enhancement of the self-field critical currents, Ic(sf,T), at low temperatures in superconductor/Dirac-cone material/superconductor (S/DCM/S) junctions. Some papers attributed the enhancement to the low-energy Andreev bound states arising from winding of the electronic wave function around DCM. In this paper, Ic(sf,T) in S/DCM/S junctions have been analyzed by two approaches: modified Ambegaokar-Baratoff and ballistic Titov-Beenakker models. It is shown that the ballistic model is an inadequate tool to analyze experimental data from S/DCM/S junctions. The primary mechanism for limiting superconducting current in S/DCM/S junctions is different from the conventional view that the latter is the maximum value within the order parameter phase variation. Thus, there is a need to develop a new model for self-field critical currents in S/DCM/S systems.

The research objectives was to determine the plants vegetation profile in forest revegetation and Mount Arjuna springs. The method used was descriptive method. While based on the techniques and tools used to research, the author uses the survey method to obtain facts that occur in the research area, namely in the area around the springs of Arjuna mount, Pasuruan, East Java, Indonesia. Data obtained in the field are then processed and analyzed using GIS, ArcView 3.3 and Google Earth programs. The results of the study explain the profile of plant vegetation, namely plant stratification, bird wealth, taxonomic wealth and plant density have a significant effect on forest revegetation and springs in Arjuna mount. The forest vegetation profile has a positive and significant effect on the preservation of springs. The better the profile of forest vegetation, the preservation of springs will be better, and vice versa.

The theory of the continuous two-dimensional (2D) Fourier Transform in polar coordinates has been recently developed but no discrete counterpart exists to date. In the first part of this two-paper series, we proposed and evaluated the theory of the 2D discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) in polar coordinates. The theory of the actual manipulated quantities was shown, including the standard set of shift, modulation, multiplication, and convolution rules. In this second part of the series, we address the computational aspects of the 2D DFT in polar coordinates. Specifically, we demonstrate how the decomposition of the 2D DFT as a DFT, Discrete Hankel Transform (DHT) and inverse DFT sequence can be exploited for efficient code. We also demonstrate how the proposed 2D DFT can be used to approximate the continuous forward and inverse Fourier transform in polar coordinates in the same manner that the 1D DFT can be used to approximate its continuous counterpart.

The theory of the continuous two-dimensional (2D) Fourier Transform in polar coordinates has been recently developed but no discrete counterpart exists to date. In this paper, we propose and evaluate the theory of the 2D discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) in polar coordinates. This discrete theory is shown to arise from discretization schemes that have been previously employed with the 1D DFT and the discrete Hankel Transform (DHT). The proposed transform possesses orthogonality properties, which leads to invertibility of the transform. In the first part of this two-part paper, the theory of the actual manipulated quantities is shown, including the standard set of shift, modulation, multiplication, and convolution rules. Parseval and modified Parseval relationships are shown, depending on which choice of kernel is used. Similar to its continuous counterpart, the 2D DFT in polar coordinates is shown to consist of a 1D DFT, DHT and 1D inverse DFT.

Recently, Kayyalha et al. (Phys. Rev. Lett., 2019, 122, 047003) reported on anomalous enhancement of the self-field critical currents, I_c (sf,T), at low temperatures in Nb/BiSbTeSe₂-nanoribbon/Nb Josephson junctions. The enhancement was attributed to the low-energy Andreev bound states arising from winding of the electronic wave function around the circumference of the topological insulator BiSbTeSe₂ nanoribbon. In this paper, we show that identical enhancement in I_c(sf,T) and in the upper critical field, B_c2(T), at approximately same reduced temperatures, were reported by several research groups in atomically thin junctions based on a variety of Dirac-cone materials (DCM) earlier. Our analysis shows that in all these S/DCM/S systems the enhancement is due to a new superconducting band opening. Taking in account that several intrinsic superconductors also exhibit the effect of new superconducting band(s) opening when sample thickness becomes thinner than the out-of-plane coherence length, we strength our previous proposal that there is a new phenomenon of additional superconducting band(s) opening in atomically thin films.

In this paper, we present a comprehensive 4D study of the early stage of plastic deformation in a polycrystalline binary AlLi alloy. The entire microstructure is mapped with X-ray diffraction contrast tomography and a set of bulk grains is further studied via X-ray topotomography during mechanical loading. The observed contrast is analyzed with respect to the slip system activation and the evolution of the orientation spread is measured as a function of applied strain. The experimental observations are augmented by the mechanical response predicted by crystal plasticity finite element simulations to analyze the onset of plasticity in details. Simulation results show a general agreement of the individual slip system activation during loading and that comparison with experiments at the length scale of the grains may be used to fine tune the constitutive model parameters.

This work communicates a review on Balmer series hydrogen beta line measurements and applications for analysis of white dwarf stars. Laser-induced plasma investigations explore electron density and temperature ranges comparable to white dwarf star signatures such as Sirius B, the companion to the brightest star observable from the earth. Spectral line shape characteristics of the hydrogen beta line include width, peak separation, and central dip-shift, thereby providing three indicators for electron density measurements. The hydrogen alpha line shows two primary line-profile parameters for electron density determination, namely, width and shift. Both Boltzmann plot and line-to-continuum ratios yield temperature. The line-shifts recorded with temporally- and spatially- resolved optical emission spectroscopy of hydrogen plasma in laboratory settings can be larger than gravitational redshifts that occur in absorption spectra from radiating white dwarfs. Published astrophysical spectra display significantly diminished Stark or pressure broadening contributions to red-shifted atomic lines. Gravitational redshifts allow one to assess the ratio of mass and radius of these stars, and subsequently, the mass from cooling models.

This paper proposes the impact of plug-in electric vehicles integrated into power distribution system based on voltage dependent control. The plug-in electric vehicles was modeled as the static load model in power distribution systems under balanced load condition. The power flow analysis is determined by using the basic parameters of the electrical network. The main point of this study are compare with voltage magnitude profiles, load voltage deviation, and total power losses of the electrical power system. There are investigating the affected from constant power load, constant current load, constant impedance load and plug-in electric vehicles load, respectively. The IEEE 33 bus test system is used to test the proposed method by assigning each load type to a balanced load in steady state and applied the solving methodology based on the bus injection to branch injection matric, branch current to bus voltage matrix, and current injection matrix to solve the power flow problem. The simulation results showed that the plug-in electric vehicles load had the lowest impact compared to other loads. The lowest plug-in values for the electric vehicle loads were 0.062, 119.67 kW and 79.31 kVar for the load voltage deviation, total active power loss and total reactive power loss, respectively. Therefore, this study can be verified that the plug-in electric vehicles load were affected to the lowest of the electrical power system in condition to same sizing and position. So that, in condition to the plug-in electric vehicles load added into the electrical power system with the conventional load type or complex load type could be considered that the affected from the plug-in electric vehicles load in next study.

The sustainable development of our world has gain particular attention of a wide range of decisional factors, civil society, business sector, and scientific community, seeing that the prosperity of people and society is possible with the aid of sustained and inclusive economic growth of all countries and regions. Educational environment has a decisive impact on changes in the way that societies are coping with national, regional, and global challenges and opportunities brought by sustainable development. Looking at the implications of HE on the progress of society, the paper addressed the lack of HE institutional capacity to integrate the principles and practices of sustainable development into all aspects of education and learning. The scope of research problem was bounded on the capability of HEI as organization and school to act as entrepreneurial university by combining the scope of its responsibility within the value chain through a practical and effective mechanism needed to align the strategy with sustainable development goals (SDGs). Embarking on the path of SDGs requires HEI to design, launch, implement, and customize specific processes architectures to govern the advance of sustainability approach. The authors applied the process scoping diagram to capture and conceptualize the educational model needed to guide the HEI through the process of change to embrace sustainability into organizational culture and daily operations. It has been used the SIPOC method (Supplier, Input, Process, Output, Customer) with Visio software tool to articulate processes relationships embedded in the educational model of HEI. The benefits relied on the organized view of the work processes needed to be performed to incorporate SDGs into the strategy of any entrepreneurial HEI. Finally, the authors shared their views on the scalability of the model which may be customized and harmonized in accordance with different HE circumstances and priorities. Implementing the proposed educational model requires long-term institutional commitment, transparency, continuous performance improvement, and communicating the strategy for SDGs and its achievements to wider stakeholders.

In this paper the authors describe the architecture of a multidisciplinary data acquisition and visualization platform devoted to the management of coastal environments. The platform integrates heterogeneous data acquisition sub-systems that can be roughly divided in two main categories: remote sensing systems and in-situ sensing systems. Remote sensing solutions include aerial and underwater remote data acquisition while in-situ sensing solutions include the use of RFID tracers, Wireless Sensor Networks and imaging techniques. All the data collected by these subsystems are stored, integrated and fused on a single platform that is also in charge of data visualization. This last task is carried out according to the paradigm of Augmented Virtuality which foresees the augmentation of a virtually reconstructed environment with data collected in the real world. The described solution proposes a novel holistic approach where different disciplines concur, with different data acquisition techniques, to a large scale definition of coastal dynamics, in order to better describe and face the coastal erosion phenomenon. The overall framework has been conceived by the so-called Team COSTE, a joint research team between the Universities of Pisa, Siena and Florence.

In this paper we present the measurement of charged pion two-particle femtoscopic correlation functions in $\sqrt{S_{NN}}$= 200 GeV Au+Au collisions, in 31 average transverse mass bins, separately for positive and negative pion pairs. Lévy-shaped source distributions yield a statistically acceptable description of the measured correlation functions, with three physical parameters: correlation strength parameter λ , Lévy index α and Lévy scale parameter R. The transverse mass dependence of these Lévy parameters is then investigated. Their physical interpretation is also discussed, and the appearance of a new scaling variable is observed.

In this paper, an in-wheel vibration absorber for In-wheel-motor electric vehicle (IWM EV) is designed, and a comprehensive control strategy of in-wheel absorber and vehicle suspension is proposed to improve vehicle ride comfort. The proposed in-wheel vibration absorber, designed for suppressing the motor vibration, is composed of a spring and a controllable damper. The values of in-wheel spring stiffness and damper initial coefficient are determined by using the improved particle swarm optimization (IPSO) algorithm, which is carried on the typical driving condition. To deal with the negative interaction effects between vehicle suspension and in-wheel absorber, the linear quadratic regulator (LQR) algorithm is utilized to control suspension damper, and the fuzzy PID method is utilized to control in-wheel damper. Based on the four evaluation indexes including vehicle body vertical acceleration, suspension dynamic deflection, wheel dynamic load and motor wallop, the simulation results show that, the proposed LQR control of suspension effectively improves vehicle ride comfort, and the fuzzy PID control of in-wheel damper exhibits superior performance of motor vibration suppressing in comparison to conventional electric wheel.

This paper presents a methodology for determining the sensitivity of the main air flow directions in ventilation subnetworks to changes of aerodynamic resistance and of air density in mine workings. Formulae for determination of the sensitivity of the main subnetwork air flows by establishing the degree of dependency of the air volume stream in a given working on the variations in resistance or air density of other workings of the network have been developed. They have been implemented in the VentGraph mine ventilation network simulator. This software, widely used in Polish collieries provides an extended possibility to predict the process of ventilation, air distribution and, in the case of underground fire, also the spread of combustion gasses. The new method facilitates assessment by mine ventilation services of the stability of ventilation systems in exploitation areas and determine of the sensitivity of the main subnetwork air flow directions to changes of aerodynamic resistance and air density. Recently in some Polish collieries new longwalls are developed in seams located deeper then the bottom of the intake shaft. Such solution is called “exploitation below the level of access” or “sublevel”. The new approach may be applied to such developments to assess the potential of changes of direction and air flow rates. In addition, interpretation of the developed sensitivity indicator is presented. While analyzing air distributions for sublevel exploitation, application of current numerical models for calculations of the distribution results in tangible benefits, such as the evaluation of the safety or risk levels for such exploitation. Application of the VentGraph computer program, and particularly the module POŻAR (fire) with the newly developed options, enables an additional approach to the sensitivity indicator in evaluating air flow safety levels for the risks present during exploitation below the level of the intake shaft. The analyses performed and examples presented enabled useful conclusions in mining practice to be drawn.

The understanding of various health-oriented vital sign data generated from body sensor networks (BSN) and discovery of the association between the generated parameters is an important task that may assist and promote important decision making in healthcare. For example, in a smart home scenario where the occupants’ health status is continuously monitored remotely, it is essential to provide required assistance when an unusual or critical situation is detected in their vital sign data. In this paper, we present an efficient approach to mine the incomplete (partial) periodic patterns obtained from BSN data. In addition, we employ a correlation test on the generated patterns and introduce the productive-associated partial periodic frequent patterns as the set of correlated partial periodical frequent items. The combination of these measures has the advantage of empowering healthcare providers and patients for quality of diagnosis, and also for better treatment and smart care, especially for the elderly people at smart home. We developed an efficient algorithm named PPFP-Growth (Productive Periodic Frequent Pattern growth) to discover all productive associated partial periodic patterns using these measures. PPFP-Growth is efficient, and the productiveness measure removes uncorrelated periodic items. An experimental evaluation on synthetic and real datasets shows the efficiency of the proposed PPFP-Growth algorithm, and can filter a huge number of partial periodic patterns to reveal only the correlated ones.

Early in the middle of the 1800s. Up until about 1900, the automotive land speed record 1 was held by an electrical vehicle. Unfortunately, internal combustion engine vehicles did not do 2 well in the market due to their high cost, limited speed, and short range in the 20th century, which 3 resulted in a global fall in their use as private motor vehicles. Since there are no fuel emissions into 4 the environment, there are important uses for electrical vehicles, Electric cars, or EVs, have a closed 5 circuit, cheap operating costs, no maintenance requirements, and excellent performance. The goal 6 of this project is to assess the current state of electric vehicles and the issues surrounding the global 7 advancement of electric vehicle technology. Because of the changing climate.8

The war to technology and economic power have been the driver for industrialization in most developed countries. The first industrial revolution (industry 1.0) earned millions for textile mill owners while the second industrial revolution (industry 2.0) opened the way for tycoons and captains of industry like John D. Rockefeller, J.P. Morgan and Henry Ford. The third industrial revolution (industry 3.0) engendered technology giants like Apple and Microsoft, and made magnates of men like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates. Now, the race for the fourth industrial revolution (industry 4.0) is on and there is no option, every country whether developed or developing must participate. Many countries have positively responded to industry 4.0 by developing strategic initiatives to strengthen industry 4.0 implementation. Unlocking the country’s potential to industry 4.0 has been of interest to researchers in the recent past. However, the extent to which industry 4.0 initiatives being launched globally has never been revealed. Therefore, the present study aimed at exploring industry 4.0 initiatives through comprehensive electronic survey of literature to estimate the extend of its launching in different regions. Inferences were drawn from industry 4.0 initiatives in developed nations to be used as the recommendations for East Africa Community. Results of the survey revealed that 117 industry 4.0 initiatives have been launched in 56 countries worldwide consisting of five regions. The country’s percent of industry 4.0 initiatives as per region were: Latin America and the Caribbean (15%), North America (40%), Europe (53%), Asia and Oceania (25%), Middle East and Africa (11%). While the worldwide percent was estimated as 25%. This revealed that the big gap is existing between countries towards the race for industry 4.0.

The convergence of artificial intelligence, robotics, and gaming has sparked critical discussions about the nature of life and the potential for artificial systems to replicate biological traits. This paper examines the defining characteristics of life—such as growth, reproduction, regulation, and sensitivity—and applies these criteria to AI-driven game entities and autonomous robots. By reviewing advancements in AI and robotics from 2015 to 2023, and grounding the analysis in biological theories, this study explores whether these artificial systems can be considered "alive" or if they are merely sophisticated simulations. The findings suggest that while artificial systems can mimic life-like behaviours, they lack essential biological traits, such as metabolism and autonomous reproduction. However, human tendencies to anthropomorphise these systems raise ethical and philosophical questions about the boundaries of life and the need for new frameworks to address the evolving role of artificial intelligence and robotics. This paper concludes by proposing directions for future research on the ethical, social, and technical implications of artificial life.

The critical role of manufacturing operations in enhancing the performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) has become increasingly evident in recent years. This systematic review examines how manufacturing operations influence the performance of SMEs, analysing findings from 69 diverse research papers published between 2014 and 2024. Utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, the review focuses on key operational strategies, including lean manufacturing and advanced manufacturing technologies, assessing their effectiveness in improving business outcomes such as efficiency, productivity, and financial performance. The methodology included a thorough review of the research methods used in the studies, identifying potential biases, gaps, and highlighting the need for diverse approaches. While manufacturing operations have led to improved productivity and increased efficiency for many SMEs, challenges such as limited resources, lack of technical expertise, and resistance to change remain prevalent. Notably, a reporting bias was observed, with 48% of the literature composed of quantitative studies, 30% being mixed-method studies, and only 20% and 1% representing qualitative and exploratory studies, respectively. This imbalance suggests an overemphasis on quantitative methods, limiting the range of ideas and understanding available. Key strategies such as lean manufacturing and advanced technologies were shown to enhance productivity by 15% to 25% in SMEs. By adopting a broad approach, this review ensures that the findings are applicable across various sectors and geographies, offering valuable insights into best practices and challenges across diverse economic contexts. The broad scope also allows for the identification of under-researched areas, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of how manufacturing operations contribute to SME success. The review provides a decision-making framework for business leaders and policy recommendations to foster SME growth in a competitive, globalized market.

Microparticles derived from biomaterials are becoming increasingly popular for various applications, particularly in drug delivery systems. In this study, the water-in-oil (W/O) emulsification-diffusion method was used to create cellulose (C), silk fibroin (SF), and C/SF composite microparticles. We then observed the morphology of all obtained microparticles using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), evaluated their functional groups using attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and conducted thermogravimetric analysis using a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA). SEM micrographs indicated that the native SF microparticles have the highest spherical shape with smooth surfaces. With blue dextran, the C microparticle was smaller compared to the native microparticle, while the drug-loaded SF microparticles were bigger than the native microparticle. The morphological surfaces of the C/SF composite microparticles were varied in shape and surface depending on the C/SF ratio used. The spherical shape of the C/SF composite microparticle was increased as SF content increased. Furthermore, the size of drug-loaded C/SF composite microparticles was gradually increased by the SF content. The significant functional groups in the C and SF structures were identified based on the ATR-FTIR data, and a suggestion was made regarding the interaction between the functional groups of each polymer. When compared to both native polymers, the C/SF composite microparticles exhibit improved thermal stability. The C/SF composite microparticle at a 1:3 ratio had the lowest drug release content, whereas the hydrophilicity of the C microparticle affected the highest drug release content. As a result, one crucial factor affecting the medication released from the microparticle is its thermal stability. According to the obtained results, C, SF, and C/SF composite microparticles show promise as delivery systems for drugs with controlled release.

In 1944 the architect Antonio Gómez Davó designed and built a new house for Mr. Ferrer at Rocafort in the suburbs of Valencia (Spain). In this same year, Europe, America, Russia and even Japan were still at war and Spain was only recovering from its own intestine conflict. Therefore, architectural innovations and influences were scarce as was the circulation of specialized journals on the matter. But in many creations, like the ceramic vaults and the brise-soleil, Le Corbusier himself had declared his profound nostalgia from the Mediterranean, a Sea that he had come to appreciate in his travels to the “orient”. In the case of Gómez Davó, having been born and raised in a prominent family of Valencia he could not remain indifferent to the design features that appeared in the vernacular architecture of the area, specially the type of inclined louvers of Arabic descent, that covered bow-windows and balconies and which have come to be known in Spain as the Majorcan louvers; nowadays even employed by Rafael Moneo for instance at the extension of the Painter Miro Foundation. However, with so many difficult circumstances surrounding him, Gómez Davó could not get to the point of producing a ground breaking design based on solar assumptions for the whole façade of the building, instead when providing an entrance porch apt for spending life, meals and well deserved rest hours outdoors in the pure Mediterranean tradition, he ventured to construct a surprising perforated wall oriented to the South in order to control radiation in winter and provide shade in the summer while affording excellent light and superb conditions of ventilation. By means of our own devised simulation tools we have analyzed the conditions of the house and especially of such innovative brise-soleil at times reminiscent of Alvar Aalto solutions for day-lit roofs, which he was aware intuitively and by his own incipient study of solar geometry, that needed adaptation from so distant latitudes as Finland and Valencia. By outlining such unknown and bold precedent we contribute to revitalize the early and daring pioneers of solar architecture in peripheral Spain and Europe, at the birth of critic regionalism, a fact often disregarded in conventional history of Modern Architecture.

It is documented that maternal diseases or treatments influence a newborn’s clinical status at birth; autoimmune diseases with circulating antibodies are often clinically expressed transiently in newborns due to the crossover of the specific IgG through the placenta during pregnancy. The offspring can inherit maternal genetic anomalies, but clinical expression usually becomes patent later in life. If prenatal medical history is not available or if signs or symptoms of a mother’s disease are revealed for the first time during pregnancy or postpartum, their effects on the newborn may be misattributed. In this article, we present three cases of pregnant women, without any known pathology before or during pregnancy, who gave birth to very sick preterm newborns that required admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The neonates’ complications were considered initially as consequences of prematurity or infection, but later investigations revealed transient autoimmune disease in two of the cases (myasthenia gravis and hyperthyroidism) and a severe form of thrombophilia in the third case. In all cases, mothers were asymptomatic and unaware of their subclinical disease. Preemies’ diagnosis has contributed to the identification of their mothers’ pathology and adequate treatment was prescribed with favourable short- and long-term outcomes. In one of the cases (myasthenia gravis) both mother and child had associated infectious diseases in the perinatal period that complicated the clinical picture and created problems of diagnosis. This article intends to emphasize the paramount importance of prenatal care, for both mother and newborn. Repeated medical visits and investigations throughout the pregnancy are a good opportunity to detect subclinical diseases or predispositions. As newborns usually develop non-specific signs, one should have experience and pay attention to differentiate among etiologies. Our paper takes a reversed approach to the usual medical diagnosis pathway: from infant to mother instead of mother towards the infant, proving that inter-speciality collaboration can work bi-directionally.

This research paper examines the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the global journalism industry. The integration of AI technologies, such as machine learning and natural language processing, has drastically changed journalistic practices and media operations. The study aims to understand how AI affects news production, distribution, and ethical considerations within journalism. By providing historical context and reviewing existing literature, this paper situates its analysis within the broader academic discourse. A mixed-methods approach is used for data collection and analysis, ensuring comprehensive and reliable findings. Results indicate that AI tools enhance journalistic efficiency and capabilities but also introduce challenges related to accuracy, authenticity, and editorial judgment. The implications for employment in journalism are significant, necessitating new skills and roles. The discussion interprets these findings in the context of media evolution and ethical standards. This study concludes by advocating for a balanced approach to AI adoption in journalism, emphasizing the importance of ethical guidelines, continuous journalist training, and ongoing research to navigate this evolving landscape.

This study aimed (1) to map the immunogenic epitopes (B and T cells) within the major BCoV structural proteins. These epitopes are believed to induce a robust im-mune response through the interaction with major histocompatibility complex (MHC class II) molecules (2) to design some novel BCoV multi-epitope-based vac-cines. To achieve these goals, we applied several integrated In-silico prediction computational tools to map these epitopes within the major BCoV structural pro-teins. The predicted epitopes were linked to some immunostimulants such as Toll-like receptors-2 (TLR2) and TLR-4. The tertiary structure of each epitope was modeled through the Alpha fold-2 colab machine learning tools. The stability and purity of each epitope were assessed using the Ramachandran plot and the Z Score values. Each multiepitope-based vaccine candidate conjugated with the Chlorotox-in B toxin as an adjuvant. We designed the vaccine constructs using various expres-sion vectors. We also predicted the affinity binding of these vaccines with the target protein using molecular docking. Our designed multiepitope vaccine candidates per each BCoV structural protein showed high antigenicity, immunogenicity, non-allergic, non-toxic, and high water solubility. Further studies are highly en-couraged to validate the efficacy of these novel BCoV vaccines in the natural host.

In many parts of the Asia, particularly in the arid regions of the middle east the date palm i.e. Phoneix dactylifera L. is considered a significant plant both culturally and economically. Over the past decade numerous biotechnological tools have been applied to revolutionize the date palm research and its cultivation process. In this comprehensive review ,we provided the in depth overview of the cutting edge developments in the date palm biotechnology, mentioning the important areas such as genomics, genetic engineering, in vitro propagation, omics technologies, and the integration of the artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI-ML).Due to these advancements ,in the date palm production how the date palm production lead the production of superior date palm cultivars with the improved yield ,fruit quality and resilience to biotic and abiotic stresses. Also it explores the application of the biotech tools in the enhancing pest and disease management strategies, increasing date palm productivity and developing the date palm based bio-factories for the production of high value compounds. This review highlights the current challenges faced by the date palm industries ,including the limited water resources ,genetic erosion , pests and disease and the need for improved postharvest handling and processing. It examines how these tools coupled with AI-based approaches can be leveraged to address these challenges and ensure the long term sustainability of date palm cultivation.

Bioactive peptides are sequences of amino acids, cut from the parent protein with en-zymes or high pressure processing that can impart a tertiary health benefit to the con-sumer that goes beyond basic human nutrition. This study explores mesopelagic fish in-cluding Maurolicus muelleri and Benthosema glaciale as sources of peptides with an-ti-inflammatory, heart health beneficial, antioxidant and other bioactivities. Bioactive peptides were generated post-catch using different enzymatic hydrolysis processes ap-plied to mesopelagic species caught from experimental cruises targeting these fish. Maurolicus muelleri and Benthosema glaciale were the dominant species processed. Bi-oactive hydrolysates included a Maurolicus muelleri Alcalase hydrolysate and a Maurolicus muelleri autolysis. Hundreds of peptide sequences were identified using mass spectrome-try from active hydrolysates. In silico analysis was used to rank identified peptide se-quences in terms of overall bioactivity using Peptide Ranker, anti-inflammatory activity using PrepAIP, ability to impart Umami flavours with Umami-MRNN and dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitory potential using AntiDMPpred . Thirty peptides were selected fol-lowing in silico analysis. Several of the selected peptides had sequence homology with peptides derived from other fish proteins including Atlantic salmon (peptide QCPLHR-PWAL) and thin-lipped mullet (peptide FDAFLPM). Seven peptides predicted to have an-ti-inflammatory, anti-type 2 diabetes or Umami potential using in silico strategies were chemically synthesized and their anti-inflammatory activities confirmed using in vitro bioassays with COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. The peptide QCPLHRPWAL inhibited COX-1 and COX-2 by 82.90% (+/-0.54) and 53.84% respectively and had a selectivity index greater than 10. This peptide warrant further research as a novel anti-inflammatory/pain relief peptide. Other bioactivities associated with DPP-IV inhibition and Umami flavours de-velopment are discussed. Identified peptides offer potential for use in functional foods or topical agents to prevent pain and inflammation associated with diseases like psoriasis, arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, however further research in vivo is required.

This study comprehensively explores Serbia's Disaster (Risk) Management System, aiming to critically evaluate its inherent strengths and weaknesses. Using descriptive-analytical methods and qualitative interpretation, SWOT analysis was applied to collect data from scientific papers, books, and institutional reports. This study delves deeply into the nuances of Serbia's Disaster Management Framework, revealing a nuanced landscape of strengths, weaknesses, and strategic improvement opportunities. Identified strengths underscore a robust foundation characterized by proficient professionals, state-of-the-art technology, and cohesive teamwork, all pivotal for effective emergency preparedness and response. Conversely, weaknesses underscore pressing imperatives for enhancements in regulatory enforcement, resource allocation, and infrastructure upgrades, presently hampering the framework's efficacy and response readiness. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on disaster risk management and serves as a catalyst for further scholarly inquiry and policy formulation. By mapping out the structure of Serbia’s Disaster (Risk) Management Framework and integrating diverse data sources, the study enriches theoretical models and lays the groundwork for practical policy interventions. Its findings, including precise recommendations for policy reform and strategic improvements, provide valuable insights for policymakers, emergency management experts, and stakeholders seeking to enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities on both national and global scales.

Agricultural activities are the second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, and carbon emissions from agricultural land use (CEALU) have become a hot issue across the world. However, few scholars explored the impact of agricultural land policies on carbon emissions, such as the High-standard farmland construction(HSFC) in China.Thus，by relying on provincial panel data for China for the period 2005-2017, the effect of the high-standard basic farmland construction policy on carbon emissions from agricultural land use per unit area and its regional differences were quantitatively analyzed using the difference-in-difference (DID) model. The results showed that: 1) China's CEALU per unit area presented a fluctuating upward trend during the period 2005-2017, from 392.58 kg/ha to 457.72 kg/ha, with an average annual growth rate of 1.31%. 2) The high-standard farmland construction(HSFC) policy produced a significant carbon emission reduction effect in agricultural land use, and reduced the CEALU per unit area by 10.80% on average. With the promotion of this policy, its carbon emission reduction effect in agricultural land use presented an overall increasing trend. 3) The carbon emission reduction effect of the high-standard farmland construction policy in agricultural land use was significant in central China, but non-significant in eastern China and western China.

Nowadays, unmanned vehicles are widely used in various fields. However, the safety of unmanned vehicles is directly determined by the autopilot systems, and sensor faults are a very critical factor that affects the normal operation of the autopilot systems. To efficiently and comprehensively test unmanned systems for sensor faults, this paper proposes a chip-level testing platform for unmanned vehicle autopilot systems based on FPGA hardware-in-the-loop simulation. Unlike existing testing platforms, the introduction of FPGA technology allows us to achieve nanosecond real-time simulation frequency, thus realizing chip-level simulation of sensors and black-box automated testing. Firstly, we propose a set of general platform and modeling methods, and the paper presents a detailed application of the four most common necessary sensors in autopilot systems as examples. Secondly, we propose for the first time a chip-level fault testing method for unmanned systems, and build a test platform with a quadrotor vehicle, the PX4 software platform, and the Pixhawk4 hardware platform as examples. Finally, the experimental results verify that the testing platform proposed in this paper can adapt to various autopilot systems and has high simulation test reliability.

Capturing atmospheric CO2 and storing it in natural rock systems (i.e., alkaline earth silicate and hydroxide minerals) through carbonation reactions is a promising greenhouse gas mitigation research, and largely depends on the use of hydrated ultramafic rocks (serpentinites), which are widespread in orogenic belts around the globe. The Jurassic ophiolites in the Southern Apennines represent a natural analogue and a great opportunity for the mineralogical sequestration of CO2. Serpentinites of the Pollino ophiolite Massif have been widely studied for their mineralogical, petrographic, and chemical characteristics, providing major findings on their impact on environmental and human health issues. Serpentinites here have been divided into cataclastic and massive types based on their structures and are characterized by pseudomorphic and vein textures. The mineralogy of the studied serpentinites consists of lizardite, antigorite, clino-crysotile, Cr-chlorite, magnetite, tremolite, actinolite, pyroxene and calcite, and the most commonly occurring serpentine minerals are polymorphs of serpentine including lizardite, clino-crysotile and antigorite. Systematic petrographic and mineralogical studies of serpentinites in ophiolites, such as those outcropping in the Southern Apennines can represent a starting point for the study of natural materials, which can be used for CO2 storage and sequestration. A particular attention must be given to those carbonate phases, produced by carbonation processes to check whether the serpentinites of the Pollino Massif can be used for the induced mineral Carbon Capture Storage (CCS). If successful, this technique and the Pollino Massif serpentinites can become highly significant in safeguarding the health of our planet's climate.

In the present paper, we efficiently solve the two-body problem for extreme cases such as those with high eccentricities. The use of numerical methods, with the usual variables, cannot maintain the perihelion passage accurately. In previous articles, we have verified that this problem is treated more adequately through temporal reparametrizations related to the mean anomaly through the partition function. The biparametric family of anomalies, with an appropriate partition function, allows a systematic study of these transformations. In the present work, we consider the elliptical orbit as a meridian section of the ellipsoid of revolution, and the partition function depends on two variables raised to specific parameters. One of the variables is the mean radius of the ellipsoid at the secondary, and the other is the distance to the primary. One parameter regulates the concentration of points in the apoapsis region, and the other produces a symmetrical displacement between the polar and equatorial regions. The three most used geodesy latitude variables are also studied, resulting in one not belonging to the biparametric family. However, it is in the one introduced now, which implies an extension of the biparametric method. The results obtained by the method presented here now allow a causal interpretation of the operation of numerous reparametrizations used in the study of orbital motion.

The high-quality development of urban-rural integration is a vital component of China's economy, serving as a strategic response to the in-depth deployment of new urbanization and rural revitalization strategies. This integration is underscored by the promotion of entrepreneurship in agriculture, rural areas, and among farmers, which acts as a driver for fostering high-quality development in urban-rural areas through market competition. The resulting influx of resources and commodities with similar characteristics plays a crucial role in bridging the urban-rural divide. To maintain objectivity, it is important to adopt a balanced approach and refrain from using biased language. This study delves into the connotation and internal mechanism of the high-quality development of urban-rural integration, centering on the principle of 'quality'. Specifically, it examines the role of entrepreneurship in agriculture, rural areas, and among farmers, and evaluates its direct impact and transmission mechanism. The research employs balanced panel data from 41 cities in the Yangtze River Delta region spanning from 2003 to 2021. The findings reveal that entrepreneurship in agriculture, rural areas, and among farmers serves as a catalyst for promoting high-quality urban-rural development through the construction of a virtuous cycle, whereby resource factors and commodity services are exchanged. Moreover, this deep integration yields diverse effects across economic, spatial, demographic, social, and ecological domains, underscoring the necessity of continued support for entrepreneurship in agriculture, rural areas, and among farmers to facilitate a seamless urban-rural economic cycle and fully realize the benefits of high-quality development.

One of the needs of the teaching and learning processes is the lack of information during the process, such as the emotions of students. Emotions influence learning, the ability to process information and accurately understand what we are dealing with. They profoundly affect students’ academic engagement and performance. One new way of getting such information is monitoring students' emotions. This research aims to expose 6 groups of secondary school students to video recordings for further analysis and categorization of their emotions. A model of emotional recognition (ER) during classroom learning was designed, with a custom-made code, from recorded videos to images to identify faces, action units (AUs) and consequently the emotions of each of the students shown on the screen. In addition, the ER model was optimized, from detecting few students to many students during a class. Emotions were then analysed according to the academic year, subject, and comparing the emotions at the beginning and at the end of the class. The results indicate the presence of a variety of emotions in the classroom and we found significant differences in the presence of some emotions depending on the time of class, subject and academic year, although there are no clear patterns. We discussed how emotions influence students' academic performance, and we suggest future research focus on teachers utilizing tools like this to improve student well-being and performance.

In-wheel motor vehicles are gaining attention as a new type of electric vehicle due to their efficient power units located inside each wheel hub. However, they are more susceptible to wheel resonance due to the increase in unsprung mass caused by the motor's weight. This can result in decreased both the ride comfort and driving stability. To resolve this issue, this study aims to apply an optimal switching controller with a semi-active n actuator; magnetorheological (MR) damper. For the implementation of the optimal switching controller, a road type classification is also carried out. An acceleration sensor is used for road type classification, and control logics include a ride comfort controller; the linear quadratic regulator (LQR _Paved Road) and a wheel motion controller (LQR_Off Road) for improved driving stability. For paved roads, the LQR_Paved Road control input is applied to the MR damper. However, if a road type prone to wheel resonance is detected, the control logic switches to the LQR_Off Road. During the transition, a weighted average of both LQR_ Paved Road and LQR_Off Road control input is applied to the actuator. Computer simulations are undertaken to evaluate vibration control performance, including the ride comfort and driving stability at various road profiles.

WBAN is a blessing to mankind because it can monitor people's health and activities regardless of place or time. It brings feasibility in patients’ treatment. The main problems with WBAN, however, are related to the security and privacy of health data. To prevent data misuse, health information should be safeguarded. On the other hand, the medical professional needs to receive the patient's health information promptly. As security of health data impact human life greatly so secure an efficient method is required. Efficient cryptographic technique for data protection of wireless body area network is proposed. This research aims to provide data protection in WBAN to increase data security and efficient transmission. The suggested approach offers effective security with quick key generation, quick encryption, and secure data transmission across the network. The proposed methodology is considered to be secure and will consume less time. The proposed method further uses a less complex encryption algorithm. The less complex the approach is the higher performance it will provide in wireless network. The proposed methodology will prevent many attacks, which makes the proposed approach highly suitable for wireless body area network’s security.

Although the potential of natural minerals for purification of liquid radioactive wastes (LRW) from radionuclides has been widely studied, the use of hybrid polymer composites made of zeolite is still rather scarce. This article reports on the preparation of zeolite based hybride polymer composites using the in-situ polymerization technique in the body of mineral matrix and its intercalated with copper ferrocyanide (CuFC) forms. This hybrid polymer composites have shown unique and enhanced properties as compared to the individual mineral. The change in conventional properties of two mixed minerals such as zeolite and bentonite and their intercalated with CuFC forms were probed using technics such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Mossbauer spectroscopy (MS) and FT-IR analysis. The totality of analysis showed a coexistence of intercalated and percolated zeolite phases. The hybrid polymer composites exhibited both adsorption and ion-exchangr properties in removal of radionuclides from LRW.

Thermal Non-destructive Testing and Evaluation (NDT&E) is crucial in ensuring the quality and safety of industrial materials, components, and structures. It serves as a key tool for assessing their operational reliability, thus enhancing safety in a wide range of industries. There is a growing demand for dependable, swift, remote, and secure inspection and assessment techniques to detect hidden flaws, especially for sustainable solutions prompts adjustments in design and manufacturing standards. Hidden defects often emerge during the service life of these materials and structures due to various stress factors, potentially resulting in catastrophic failures. This study delves into the optimal and dependable experimental method for conducting fast, remote, and secure inspections and assessments of carbon fiber reinforced polymer materials using Infrared Imaging (IRI) as part of Thermal Non-Destructive Testing and Evaluation (TNDT&E). Additionally, it examines the post-processing approach associated with this technique. This perspective also sheds light on the current state-of-the-art infrared imaging methods employed in TNDT&E, emphasizing their strengths and weaknesses about their ability to detect subsurface defects present within the material Most of the methods discussed in previous research primarily focus on the thermal differences in specific areas of a sample using processed thermal images, even though these images come from analyzing a series of images captured over time. This study highlights the latest research in thermal/infrared non-destructive testing and evaluation, along with the related post-processing techniques. It aims to not only show hidden subsurface defects through thermal differences also provides information about how these defects change over time.

Biomass and biowaste valorisation is of major interest nowadays because of the spirit of circular economy and of the neutral environmental fingerprint global target. In the current project chondroitin sulphate (ChS) was incorporated with the crustaceous’ and shrimp’s byproduct chitosan (Chi) and the fish industry byproduct gelatine (FG) to obtain dense hydrogel membranes. Glycerol (Gly) was utilized to avoid brittleness. The formation of the hydrogel membranes is attributed to secondary interactions between the natural polymers and the plasticizer. The prepared hydrogel membranes were characterized by Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The surface morphology of the membranes was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and tensile tests were also performed to evaluate the mechanical response of the membranes. The samples were also evaluated for membrane wettability, degradation rate and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR). Finally, in vitro endothelial cell attachment on the membrane were addressed. The overall results of the study indicate that the hydrogel membranes could be appropriate for external application in wound healing applications as dressings.

Continuous greenhouse gas emissions are causing global warming and impacting the habitats of many animals. Researchers in the field of electric power are making efforts to mitigate this situation. Operating and maintaining the power grid in an economic, low-carbon, and stable is challenging. To address the issue, we propose a grid dispatching technique that combines prediction technology, reinforcement learning, and optimization technology. Prediction technology can forecast future power demand and solar power generation, while reinforcement learning and optimization technology can make charging and discharging decisions for energy storage devices based on current and future grid conditions. In the power system, the aggregation of distributed energy resources increases uncertainty, particularly due to the fluctuating generation of renewable energy. This requires the use of advanced predictive control techniques to ensure long-term economic and decarbonization goals. In this paper, we present a real-time dispatching framework that integrates deep learning-based prediction, reinforcement learning-based decision-making, and stochastic optimization techniques. The framework can rapidly adapt to target uncertainty caused by various factors in real-time data distribution and control processes. The proposed framework achieved global Champion in the NeurIPS Challenge 2022 competition and demonstrated its effectiveness in practical scenarios of intelligent building energy management.

Land surface temperature (LST) is a crucial parameter in climate and ecology, exerting significant influence on meteorological conditions, ecosystems, and human life. LST data sources are diverse, with remote sensing being the prevailing means of acquisition. FY-4A/AGRI offers high-quality LST products for East Asia. In this study, we evaluated the performance of the product in Hunan Province and conducted refined analysis of surface heat resources based on the 4km/1h resolution product over a two-year period. The results demonstrate that the FY-4A LST product effectively captures surface temperature (R=0.893), albeit with a relatively high error level (Bias=-6.295℃; RMSE=8.58℃), particularly in capturing high LST values. The performance of this product is superior in the eastern flat terrain area of Hunan Province compared to its performance in the western mountainous region due to environmental conditions causing systematic errors that contribute to instability in detection deviation for this product. Surface heat resources are more abundant in eastern Hunan Province than in mountainous areas located west and southwardly, and the detailed distribution of them at finer scales is mainly influenced by the terrain and climate conditions. There is no obvious seasonal difference in the distribution of heat resources except in winter, and rapid urbanization within Chang-Zhu-Tan urban agglomeration during two years has significantly altered the spatial distribution pattern of surface heat resources across Hunan Province. These findings provide a quantitative baseline for assessing FY-4A satellite's detection capability while serving as a reference for further application of its LST products and establishing foundations for divisional classification and utilization strategies pertaining to surface heat resources within Hunan Province.

Emerging pollutants pose significant threats to Uganda's ecosystems and public health amidst rapid urbanization, industrial growth, and intensified agriculture. This systematic review comprehensively assessed these pollutants by analyzing existing Ugandan literature and research studies, revealing various types in different environmental compartments. These pollutants, including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, pesticides, industrial chemicals, heavy metals, radionuclides, biotoxins, disinfection byproducts, hydrocarbons, and microplastics, originate from urban, industrial, and agricultural regions. Wastewater and improper waste disposal are major contributors. From an initial search of 794 articles across multiple databases such as PubMed, African Journal Online (AJOL), Web of Science, Science Direct, and Google Scholar, 138 were found relevant. The review underscores potential ecological and health impacts, including antibiotic resistance, endocrine disruption, and carcinogenicity. Existing monitoring and regulation efforts are discussed, alongside the need for specific regulations, improved data collection, and public awareness campaigns. Recommendations include advanced wastewater treatment, sustainable agriculture, and source control measures. Emphasis is placed on further research to address knowledge gaps and develop effective policies and interventions. Uganda can mitigate these risks by implementing comprehensive monitoring, robust regulations, and sustainable practices, safeguarding the environment and public health.

The divination function of China's Yijing has led to its circulation for thousands of years. In our exploration of Yijing's characteristics using big data, we have discovered variations in results between the coin toss method and the ancient yarrow-stalk method of divination, known as "the number for the great expansion method of divination(大衍之数)". The yarrow-stalk method serves as the fundamental method of divination in Yijing and continues to hold significance in studying the essential characteristics of Yijing. Despite the complexity of yarrow calculations, advancements in computer technology and big data have simplified its application. By employing the yarrow-stalk method, we simulated changes in the 64 hexagrams, calculated probabilities and proportions of hexagram alterations, and derived fundamental characteristics and patterns of hexagrams. Additionally, we constructed the spatial representation of lines and hexagrams. Through a binary system rearrangement, we created a 64x64 matrix illustrating hexagram transformations. Subsequently, we generated 100 million random hexagrams and analyzed line and hexagram changes accordingly. Our findings indicate the following:(1) Big data analysis reveals evident asymmetry in the hexagrams obtained through the yarrow-stalk method, with a triangular fractal characteristic forming the background.(2) Each of the 64 hexagrams exhibits a distinct probability distribution when transforming into other hexagrams, which can be categorized into five types.(3)The occurrence probabilities of Laoyang, Laoyin, Shaoyang, and Shaoyin are 18.61%, 6.387%, 31.38%, and 43.62% respectively. The probabilities of Yin and Yang occurrences are nearly equal, each close to 50%. However, the probability of Laoyang is approximately three times higher than that of Laoyin.(4) Visualized and analyzed the characteristics of hexagram changes greater than 100000 times using 3D statistical maps and Sankey diagram.These results demonstrate that the yarrow-stalk method effectively unveils the characteristics and underlying patterns of the 64 hexagrams. This study provides a novel approach for scientifically exploring the internal laws governing the 64 hexagrams in Yijing.