Firefighters Protective Clothing consist of several layers of different properties and functions. The layers create barriers against dangerous outer factor. However, they are also barriers to transport of sweat produced by human organism. It causes that very often sweat in the form of vapor is not transferred effectively from the human organism through the FPC to environment. This leads to sweat condensation on the skin of the FPC user causing his discomfort. In order to ensure as good as possible physiological comfort of firefighter while firefighting and other rescue actions it is necessary to take into consideration the transport of condensed sweat in the multilayer textile set creating the FPC. In the presented work four variants of multilayer textile sets for the FPC have been tested in the aspect of liquid moisture transport. Measurement was performed by means of the Moisture Management Tester (MMT290) – innovative instrument manufactured by the SDL Atlas. Obtained results showed that the transfer of sweat in liquid form occurs only in the inner, next to skin layer of the multilayer sets for the FPC.

We propose a novel unsupervised semantic segmentation method for fast and accurate flood area detection utilizing color images acquired from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first fully unsupervised method for flood area segmentation in color images captured by UAVs, without the need of pre-disaster images. The proposed framework addresses the problem of flood segmentation based on parameter-free calculated masks and unsupervised image analysis techniques. First, a fully unsupervised algorithm gradually excludes areas classified as non-flood utilizing calculated masks over each component of the LAB colorspace, as well an RGB vegetation index and the detected edges of the original image. Unsupervised image analysis techniques, such as distance transform, are then applied, producing a probability map for the location of flooded areas. Finally, flood detection is obtained by applying the hysteresis thresholding segmentation. The proposed method is tested and compared with variations, and other supervised methods in two public datasets, consisting of 953 color images in total, yielding high-performance results, with 87.4% and 80.9% overall accuracy and F1-Score, respectively. The results and computational efficiency of the proposed method show that it is suitable for on board data execution and decision-making during UAVs flight.

Quantum correlations, especially time correlations, are crucial in ghost imaging in order to significantly reduce the background noise on the one hand while increasing the imaging resolution. Moreover, the time correlations serve as a critical reference, distinguishing between signal and noise, which in turn enable clear visualization of biological samples. Quantum imaging also addresses the challenge involved in imaging delicate biological structures with minimal photon exposure and sample damage. Here we explore the recent progress in quantum correlation-based imaging, notably its impact on secure imaging and remote sensing protocols as well as on biological imaging. We also exploit the quantum characteristics of heralded single-photon sources (HSPS) combined with decoy-state methods for secure imaging. This method uses Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) principles to reduce measurement uncertainties and protect data integrity. It is highly effective in low-photon-number regimes for producing high-quality, noise-reduced images. The versatility of decoy-state methods with WCSs (WCS) is also discussed, highlighting their suitability for scenarios requiring higher photon numbers. We emphasize the dual advantages of these techniques: improving image quality through noise reduction and enhancing data security with quantum encryption, suggesting significant potential for quantum imaging in various applications, from delicate biological imaging to secure quantum communication.

Flooding, exacerbated by climate change, poses a significant threat to certain areas, increasing in frequency and severity. In response, the construction of supplementary dams has emerged as a reliable solution for flood management. This study employs a Remote Sensing (RS) approach integrated with GIS to assess the feasibility of constructing a supplementary dam near Linville, Brisbane, Australia, with the aim of mit-igating floods and preventing overtopping failure at the Wivenhoe Dam. Using QGIS software and a 25-meter resolution DEM from the Queensland Spatial Catalogue ‘QSpatial’ website, four potential dam sites were analysed, considering cross-sections, watershed characteristics, and water volume calculations. Systematic selection criteria were applied to identify the most optimal option based on dam wall di-mensions, volume-to-area, and volume-to-cost ratios. The selected option was further assessed against predefined criteria, yielding one optimal choice. The study provides insights into the feasibility and ef-fectiveness of supplementary dam construction for flood mitigation in the region, with recommendations for future research and implementation.

In the brain, astrocytes regulate shape and functions of the synaptic and vascular compartments through a variety of released factors and membrane-bound proteins. An imbalanced astrocyte activity can therefore have drastic negative impacts on brain development, leading to the onset of severe pathologies. Clinical and pre-clinical studies show alterations in astrocyte cell number, morphology, molecular makeup and astrocyte-dependent processes in different affected brain regions in neurodevelopmental (ND) and neuropsychiatric (NP) disorders. Astrocytes proliferate, differentiate and mature during the critical period of early postnatal brain development, a time window of elevated glia-dependent regulation of a proper balance between synapse formation/elimination, which is pivotal in refining synaptic connectivity. Therefore, any intrinsic and/or extrinsic factors altering these processes during the critical period may result in an aberrant synaptic remodelling and onset of mental disorders. The peculiar bridging position of astrocytes between synaptic and vascular compartments further allows them to “compute” the brain state and consequently secrete factors in the bloodstream, which may serve as diagnostic biomarkers of distinct healthy or disease conditions.Here, we collect recent advancements regarding astrogenesis and astrocyte-mediated regulation of neuronal network remodelling during early postnatal critical periods of brain development, focusing on synapse elimination. We then propose alternative hypotheses for an involvement of aberrancies in these processes in the onset of ND and NP disorders. In light of the well-known differential prevalence of certain brain disorders between males and females, we also discuss putative sex-dependent influences on these neurodevelopmental events.From a translational perspective, understanding age- and sex-dependent astrocyte-specific molecular and functional changes may help to identify biomarkers of distinct cellular (dys)functions in health and disease, favouring the development of diagnostic tools or the selection of tailored treatment options for male/female patients.

The paper delineates the developed vision system of the UR5 cobot and the operating algorithm of the robotic quality control station. The hardware-software architecture of the developed robotic station was shown, consisting of a UR5 cobot equipped with a web camera and a stationary industrial camera with a lighting system. Image processing and analysis algorithms were described, the method of control and communication between the station components was discussed, and two operating scenarios were presented as a single robotic station and a robotic line. Based on the results obtained, the level of measurement noise, accuracy, and repeatability of the developed vision system were estimated.

A proportion of osteoarthritis (OA) patients are unsatisfied with post-operative outcomes following total joint replacement surgery (TJR), with insufficient pain relief or poor functional improvement. Predicting those will have poor outcomes would be beneficial for patients and clinicians. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between baseline anthropometric data and the concentration of pre-operative serum and peri-operative synovial fluid (SF) cytokines with 7-month post-operative outcomes in a cohort of knee and hip OA patients. 160 OA patients were recruited who were scheduled for TJR. The concentration of 24 cytokines were measured in blood and SF by multiplex assay. EQ5Dindex health status was assessed pre-operatively and at 7-months post-operatively. 13% of patients were identified as non-responders based on EQ5Dindex. Compared to responders, non-responders were of higher BMI, had greater waist and hip circumference and had higher levels of SF leptin but lower levels of SF Resistin (p<0.05). Linear regression analysis found a significant relationship between pre-operative body weight and post-operative response (ΔEQ5Dindex; r=0.222, p=0.049). The combination of body weight with SF amphiregulin and SF IL-6 provided an improved predictive model of post-operative response (r=0.470, p=0.035).

A detailed review of the scientific literature was undertaken to examine the most recent developments in plasma processing in the field of medicine. The first part of the review includes a detailed breakdown of the different types of coatings that can be applied onto medical devices using plasma, with a specific focus on antimicrobial surfaces. The developments during 2023 in plasma deposited biocompatible, drug delivery and adhesive coatings are described and specific applications in additive manufacturing are highlighted. The use of plasma and plasma activated liquids as standalone therapeutics continues to evolve and pertinent advances in this field are described. In addition, the combination of plasma medicine with conventional pharmaceutical interventions was reviewed and key emerging trends were highlighted, including the use of plasma to enhance drug delivery directly into tissue. The potential synergies between plasma medicine and chemotherapeutics for oncology and infection treatment is a growing area and recent advancements are noted. Finally, the use of plasma to control excess antibiotics and to intentionally degrade such materials in waste streams is described.

The Circular Bioeconomy (CBE) combines the concepts of bioeconomy and circular economy. As an alternative concept to the current fossil-based, linear economy, it de-scribes an economy based on the efficient valorization of biomass. It is regional in nature and aims to improve sustainability. An analysis of the transition process, by identifying its success criteria and assessing its impacts through the modelling of technology-specific scenarios is necessary to ensure that CBE concepts are sustainable. However, a compre-hensive consideration of regional influences on both is lacking. Based on extensive literature research and an expert survey, we (i) present a compre-hensive catalog of CBE success criteria and discuss their region-specific character and (ii) develop a methodology based on evaluation matrices that enable to match CBE technolo-gies with regions. The matrices support the evaluation of technological and regional characteristics influencing the successful CBE implementation. The results show that the success criteria "biomass resources", "technological", and "social" are perceived as highly important, and that most of the success criteria are both region- and technology-specific, highlighting the relevance of developing matrices to match them. We describe such matrices indicatively for the two broadest and most im-portant success criteria clusters “social acceptance” and “biomass supply chain”. With this, we substantiate the regional nature of CBE and raise the awareness on the importance of considering regional conditions in CBE transition processes. Furthermore, we provide practical guidance on how regional conditions can be reflected in the selection of technologies, e.g. in regional CBE technology scenarios.

This paper analyzes and compares models for predicting average magnet losses in interior permanent-magnet motors with fractional-slot concentrated windings due to harmonics in the armature reaction (assuming sinusoidal phase currents). Particularly, loss models adopting different formulations and solutions to the Helmholtz equation to solve for the eddy currents are compared to a simpler model relying on an assumed eddy-current distribution. Boundaries in terms of magnet dimensions and angular frequency are identified (numerically and using an identified approximate analytical expression) to aid the machine designer whether the more simple loss model is applicable or not. The assumption of a uniform flux-density variation (used in the loss models) is also investigated for the case of V-shaped and straight interior permanent magnets. Finally, predicted volumetric loss densities are exemplified for combinations of slot and pole numbers common in automotive applications.

Six bacterial strains with differing abilities to produce varying concentrations of Indole Acetic Acid were tested individually and in consortia for plant growth promoting and fitness related traits of Cicer arietinum. In all experiments the presence of the nitrogen fixer Mesorhizobium ciceri resulted in increased biomass production. In the absence of this strain, IAA Psedomonas putida and Bacillus megaterium hinder plant growth and fitness related traits. The application of mixes of the three strains always resulted in better plant performance when M. ciceri was present. Whereas P. putida has a noticeable plant growth-promoting effect B. megaterium resulted less effective. The low levels of IAA produced by the selected strains had a significantly greater positive effect on plant biomass accumulation, flower, pods and seed production as well as on total plant nitrogen and nitrogen concentration in seed than high IAA producer strains.

Severe early childhood caries remains the most common chronic disease affecting children. Its multifactorial etiology has established a controversy about which risk factors were more significant to its development. Therefore our study aimed through meticulous statistical analysis to arrange the “well agreed upon” common risk factors in order of significance, to aid the clinician in tailoring an adequate preventive program for this affected age group. The study reshuffled the risk factors contributing to severe early childhood caries and placed them in the order of their significance as follows: snacking of sugary food several times a day, increased number of siblings to 3 or more, night feeding, child self-employed brushing, mother caries experience, 2 siblings, on demand feeding, once/day sugary food, sharing utensils, 1 Sibling, male gender, father’s education, late first child dental visit, brushing time, mother’s education, no dental visit, decreased brushing frequency & no night brushing.

Abstract: Rice is one of the most important food crops in sub-Saharan Africa. Climate change, variability, and economic globalization threaten to disrupt rice value chains across the subcontinent, undermining their important role in economic development, food security, and poverty reduction. This paper maps existing research on the vulnerability of rice value chains, synthesizes the evidence and the risks posed by climate change and economic globalization, and discusses agriculture and rural development policies and their relevance for the vulnerability of rice value chains in sub-Saharan Africa. Important avenues for future research are identified. These include the impacts of multiple, simultaneous pressures on rice value chains, the effects of climate change and variability on parts of the value chain other than production, and the forms and extent to which different development policies hinder or enhance the resilience of rice value chains in the face of climatic and other pressures.

Purpose: Pancreatic cancer (PAAD) is one of the most lethal malignancies. Immunotherapy is largely ineffective in PAAD. T-cell exhaustion contributes to the resistance for immunotherapies. We investigated the prognostic potential of T cell exhaustion-related genes (TEXGs). Methods: Single-cell RNA (scRNA) sequencing dataset from TISCH, and bulk sequencing datasets from TCGA and GTEx were applied to screen differently expressed TEXGs. Kaplan-Meier survival, LASSO regression, and Univariate/Multivariate Cox regression analysis were performed to construct TEXGs risk model. This model was used to predict the prognosis, tumor immune microenvironment, and immunotherapy response. PAAD cohorts from ICGC and GSE71729 datasets were used to validate this risk model. Pan-cancer expression of SPOCK2 was performed in TISCH database. Results: A six-gene (SPOCK2, MT1X, LIPH, RARRES3, EMP1, and MEG3) risk model was constructed. Low-risk PAAD patients had longer survival time in both training dataset (TCGA-PAAD, n=178) and validation datasets (ICGC-PACA-CA, ICGC-PAAD-US, and GSE71729, n=412). Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that the risk score was an independent prognostic variable for PAAD. High-risk patients correlated with cancer-related KEGG pathway enrichment, higher mutation frequency of KRAS and TP53 genes, and immunosuppressive status. Immunohistochemistry staining confirmed the changes of TEXGs in clinical samples. Moreover, pan-cancer scRNA sequencing datasets from TISCH analysis indicated that SPOCK2 might be a novel marker of exhausted CD8+ T cells. Conclusion: In conclusion, we established and validated a T cell exhaustion-related prognostic signature for PAAD patients. Moreover, our study suggests that SPOCK2 may be a novel marker of exhausted CD8+ T cells.

In order to better realize rural revitalization, this paper analyzes the spatial and temporal char-acteristics and influencing factors of agricultural surface source pollution in the Yangtze River Economic Belt from the three perspectives of government, enterprise and agriculture by using the spatial Durbin model and the dynamic GMM method in the period of 2006-2021, and further re-searches the threshold characteristics of the distortion of the factor market on the agricultural surface source pollution under the different strengths of environmental regulation. The results show that there is a positive spatial correlation between agricultural surface pollution in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, and government environmental regulation, input factor market distortion and labor force transfer all have a significant impact on agricultural surface pollution. Among them, factor market distortion has a significant spatial spillover effect on agricultural surface pollution in the Yangtze River Economic Zone, and has a significant single-threshold ef-fect on environmental regulation. Accordingly, the government should strengthen environmental regulation, continuously improve the agricultural factor market mechanism, and pay attention to the construction of talents to provide support for rural revitalization.

Background: Overweight and obese adults seek effective exercise interventions to reduce accumulated fat, but the effectiveness of these interventions vary across studies. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to investigate the effectiveness of exercise interventions in overweight and obese adults based on measurement of accumulated fat distributions. (2) Methods: Databases were used to select eligible studies for this meta-analysis. Randomized controlled trials with a control and experimental group were included. Degrees of effectiveness of exercise interventions were computed to assess the benefits on reducing weight and subcutaneous, visceral, and ectopic fat accumulation. (3) Results: A total of twenty-one studies were included in this meta-analysis. Participation in exercise interventions showed beneficial effects in reducing weight and subcutaneous and visceral fat. The effectiveness of exercise interventions on ectopic fat accumulation could not be assessed due to the limited number of studies measuring ectopic fat. Additionally, effectiveness of exercise interventions that depended on measurements of accumulated fat varied. The average exercise intervention for overweight and obese individuals was moderate to vigorous intensity, 4 times per week, 50 minutes per session, and 22 weeks duration. (4) Conclusions: Participating in exercise interventions has favorable effects on reducing weight and accumulation of subcutaneous and visceral fat.

The paper is dedicated to studying the influence of annealing temperature on the chemical, structural and electrophysical properties of low-k films made from porous organosilicate glasses containing terminal methyl groups. The films were deposited using centrifugation, followed by drying at 200 °C and annealing at temperatures ranging from 350 °C to 900 °C. Changes in refractive index, porosity, pore size, chemical composition, and electrical properties as a function of annealing temperature are evaluated. The results of JV measurements indicate that the methyl-modified film, which was annealed at 450 °С, demonstrates minimal leakage currents. This phenomenon can be explained by the almost complete removal of surfactant residues and non-condensed silanols, as well as the minimal thermal degradation of methyl groups. The results of the study on leakage current models in methyl-modified films, obtained at various annealing temperatures, lead us to conclude that the predominant mechanism of charge carrier transfer is Poole–Frenkel emission.

The pervasive presence of atmospheric pollution, particularly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons such as 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene, instigates aberrant cellular and tissue conditions, precipitating oxidative damage and inflammatory cascades conducive to the onset of cancer, notably mammary cancer. Given the hepatic metabolism of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene, liver damage can be found and the imperative of employing natural antioxidants becomes apparent. In this study, we first showed that 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-intoxication escalates body weight, disrupts lipid profiles, and incites serum oxidative damage. Concurrently, hepatic and renal oxidative stress ensue, accompanied by heightened antioxidant enzyme activity in the 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-exposed group compared to controls (p<0.05). Interestingly, P.lentiscus co-administration rectifies biochemical imbalances, significantly attenuates oxidative stress aberrations, and augments antioxidant enzyme responses (p<0.05). Importantly, histological analysis evinces P.lentiscus's shielding effect against 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene induced hepatocyte injury and steatosis. Furthermore, our investigations unveil P.lentiscus’s anti-proliferative efficacy against different human breast cancer cell lines. Thus, our findings underscore P.lentiscus‘s robust anti-proliferative, antioxidant, and hepato-protective capacities, mitigating metabolic disturbances, oxidative stress propagation in liver and kidney functions, and potential histological alterations, thereby impeding 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene induced mammary cancer initiation. We posit that P.lentiscus may serve as a prophylactic agent against breast cancer and liver oxidative damage instigated by this carcinogen.

The use of C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) in the interaction with the oocyte and in the temporary postponement of spontaneous meiosis resumption has already been well described. However, its action in pre-implantation developmental stage embryos remains to be understood. Thus, our study aimed to detect the presence of the canonical CNP receptor (natriuretic peptide receptor, NPR2) in germinal vesicle (GV), metaphase II (MII), presumptive zygotes (PZ), morula (MO), and blastocyst (BL) stage embryos and, later, to observe possible modulations on the embryos when co-cultured with CNP. In the Experiment I, we detected and quantified the NPR2 on the above-mentioned embryo stages. Following, Experiment II, intended to test different concentrations (100, 200, or 400 nM of CNP) at different times of inclusion in the in vitro culture (IVC; inclusion from the beginning, i.e. day 1, or from day 5). In Experiment III, it was used 400 nM of CNP on day 1 (D1) in the IVC, which did no demonstrate to be embryotoxic, and it showed potentially promising results in blastocyst production rate, when compared to the control. Thus, we analyzed the embryonic development rates of bovine embryos (D7) and hatching kinetics (D7, D8, and D9). Subsequently, morula and blastocyst were collected and evaluated for transcript abundance to competence and quality (apoptosis, oxidative stress, proliferation and differentiation) and lipid metabolism. Differences with probabilities less than P < 0.05, and/or Foldchange (FC) ˃1.5 were considered significant. We demonstrate the presence of NPR2 until the blastocyst development stage when there was a significant decrease in membrane receptors. There was no statistical difference in production rate after co-culture with 400 nM CNP. However, when we evaluated the abundance of morula transcripts, there was an upregulated transcription in ADCY6 (P=0.057), and downregulated transcripts, in BMP15 (P= 0.013), ACAT1 (P= 0.040), CASP3 (P=0.082). In addition, a total of 12 transcriptions in morula presented variation FC ˃1.5. In blastocysts, the treatment with CNP induced upregulation in BID, CASP3, SOX2, HSPA5 transcripts, and downregulation in BDNF, NLRP5, ELOVL1, ELOVL4, IGFBP4, and FDX1 transcripts (FC >1.5). Thus, our study identified and quantified the presence of NPR2 in bovine pre-implantation embryos. Furthermore, 400 nM of CNP in IVC, a concentration not previously described in the literature, modulated some transcripts related to embryonic metabolism and it was not embryotoxic morphologically.

Planar catechin (PCat), a natural antioxidant with a fixed 3D catechin structure on a plane, exhibits radical-scavenging activity approximately five times stronger than the conventional catechin. We synthesized a compound, PCat–TrOH, by binding Trolox (TrOH), an α-tocopherol analog, to PCat to enhance its antioxidant effect against oxidative stress, such as lipid peroxidation. TrOH shows radical-scavenging activity about 6.5 times greater than PCat, and PCat–TrOH exhibited a similar level of radical-scavenging activity to TrOH. Additionally, PCat–TrOH demonstrated twice the radical-scavenging activity against reactive oxygen species compared to PCat or TrOH. This compound is also expected to exhibit an excellent antioxidant effect against lipid peroxidation caused by radical chain reactions, through interactions with vitamin C, similar to that in the case of α-tocopherol.

Interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) gained attention for diagnosing latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) due to their higher specificity compared to the tuberculin skin test (TST). However, IGRA performance varied across different populations. This study evaluated the diagnostic performance of three IGRA assays (TBF-FIA, TBF-ELISA, and QFT-Plus) in Ghana, comparing them among individuals exposed and unexposed to MTB infection. Conducted in TB clinics across three regions, this prospective and cross-sectional study included healthy individuals with no known TB exposure (unexposed group) and patients with confirmed active TB (exposed group). Blood samples were tested using all three assays per manufacturers’ guidelines. The TBF-ELISA showed 3.4% higher sensitivity, but 4.6% lower specificity compared to QFT-Plus. The TBF-FIA had a sensitivity of 78.5%-87.3% and a specificity of 82.9%-90.0%. These findings indicated that while the three IGRA assays offered similar diagnostic accuracy, variations in specificity and limited data on point-of-care assays like TBF-FIA required further investigation.

This study investigates Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in Greece, focusing on estimating prevalence and identifying regional disparities in children aged 4 to 7 years. Utilizing a quantitative, descriptive, and exploratory methodology, the research employed a structured questionnaire to gather extensive maternal and child health data. The sample consisted of 517 mothers of children diagnosed with ASD from all over Greece contributing to a nuanced understanding of ASD predictors. The study aims to elucidate the role of prenatal factors in the likelihood of an ASD diagnosis and their impact on the subsequent functionality of children with ASD. The study identified significant predictors of lower functionality in children with ASD, including higher maternal age, delayed ASD diagnosis, lower family income, and higher birth order. Prenatal health issues, such as vaginal bleeding and infections, also influenced functional outcomes. Notably, a family history of neurological or psychiatric conditions appeared protective. The regression model demonstrated robust predictive power, underscoring the complexity of genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors in ASD development. The findings advocate for early diagnosis and intervention, systematic screening, and addressing socioeconomic disparities to improve functional outcomes. The results support evidence-based service development and policy adjustments to enhance early identification, intervention, and rehabilitation for children with ASD. Establishing standardized case-recording procedures and an ASD register at national and regional levels is recommended for systematic monitoring and resource evaluation.

The growing global population and limitations in fish catch production have led to a surge in the demand for aquaculture. Contaminants of emerging concern (CEC) are frequently being detected at low levels in surface water. These CECs, which include previously unidentified or unregulated pollutants, pose potential risks to health and the environment, though their impacts are not yet fully understood. Extensive research studies have been proposed and undertaken to address the issue of aquaculture wastewater, aiming to minimize its impact and implement effective treatment methods. This review provides an analysis of various technologies used for treating aquaculture wastewater using advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) focusing on photocatalysis and ozonation. It examines their advantages and disadvantages, as well as their respective treatment efficacies and discusses their potential applications in sustainable aquaculture practices complying with the Sustainable Development Goals of 1,2 and 6 and the Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) framework.

The Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemic elicited a rapid commitment to the development of animal models for ZIKV research. Non-human primates (NHPs) and mice have made significant contributions to this research, but NHPs are expensive, have a long gestation period, and are available only in small numbers; and non-genetically modified mice are resistant to infection. To address these deficiencies, we have established the laboratory opossum, Monodelphis domestica, as a small animal model that complements the mouse and monkey models. We developed and validated an indirect ELISA for measuring antibodies to ZIKV in opossums, as well as an immunohistochemistry (IHC) method to detect ZIKV NS1 protein in tissue samples and a PCR method to detect ZIKV RNA in tissue samples. Opossum pups inoculated intracerebrally as embryos, juveniles inoculated by several routes, and mothers that cannibalized inoculated pups, became persistently infected with ZIKV. The virus spread to multiple organs and persisted up to 38 weeks (the latest endpoint of the experiments). A robust humoral immune response was mounted, and high titers of antibodies also persisted for 38 weeks. The results establish M. domestica as natural, non-genetically modified animal model in which ZIKV persists long term after experimental infection, and as a unique animal model for research on ZIKV infection, persistence of infection, and biological responses to infection.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a well-known cause of cervical cancer, with HIV infection exacerbating the prevalence of high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). ART has been shown to reduce the likelihood of developing squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs) and HR-HPV prevalence, although its impact on invasive cervical cancer remains inconclusive. In a study in Accra, 250 sexually active HIV-positive women exhibited a high HPV prevalence, emphasising the need for regular screening. HPV testing, visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA), and cytology-based tests are primary screening methods, each with specific advantages and limitations. Cervical cancer rates in sub-Saharan Africa are alarmingly high, necessitating targeted vaccination and prevention strategies.

The diel variations of viruses (< 0.2 μm), picoplankton (0.2—2 μm; heterotrophic bacteria, Syn-echococcus spp., Prochlorococcus spp. and picoeukaryotes) and nanoplankton (2—20 μm; hetero-trophic nanoflagellates and pigmented nanoflagellates) were investigated for 2 days with about 4 hours of temporal sampling in spring 2024 in coastal surface waters of the subtropical western Pacific. A period of wind change associated with rain and increased turbulence, disrupted diel patterns of the overall microbial communities during the second cycle. The abundance of bacteria did not follow a consistent diel pattern, while viral abundance positively correlated with bacterial abundance. Synechococcus spp. and Prochlorococcus spp. grew during the light period and with peak abundance at night, exhibited marked diel variability, however, opposite patterns were observed in picoeukaryotes. According to Synechococcus spp. and Prochlorococcus spp. diel changes, nano-flagellate grazing could control their abundances and may explain temporally varying picocyanobacteria abundances. As we observed in the culture experiments, the results showed a significant increase in picoeukaryotic abundance from noon to nighttime, and a decrease in bacterial abundance during nighttime, to show the prey-predator cycle. Our study suggests picoeukaryotes could serve as bacteria predators by being mixotrophs. Future studies aiming to understand the interactions between prokaryotes and picoeukaryotes within marine microbial communities should take these differences into account.

Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) is an important cytokine in host defense against tuberculosis infection. In some cases, administration of IFN-γ during tuberculosis infection can promote faster cure. In the present work, we have shown that in a mouse model, human interferon-gamma, exhibits some anti-tuberculosis activity, especially in combination with isoniazid.

Background: The aim of this experimental work was to evaluate cheiloscopy potential: to confirm the individual uniqueness of lip prints, to verify the presence of recurrent patterns according to the Suzuki and Tsuchihashi classification and to search for characteristics that can be used in establishing the sex of a subject, with a focus on assessing the method's limitations. Methods: Lip prints were taken from a sample of 172 volunteers using liquid lipstick and transparent adhesive tape and were digitally analyzed. Results: 59 prints (35.3%) were not considered for Suzuki and Tsuchihashi classification due to quality errors and the impossibility of visualizing lip wrinkles in one or more sextants. All the digitized prints revealed themselves to be unique after having been analyzed using superimposition. Qualitatively valid prints indicated a prevalence of Type II in both male and female. A major problem was that the analysis of the same print by different operators often resulted in a different attribution of a Type. Conclusions: The potential of cheiloscopy lies mainly in the matching of prints, given their uniqueness, but the absence of a database greatly limits its use. Additionally, its use for sex identification does not seem to be reliable. It is necessary to establish an acquisition protocol for taking and analyzing prints that could reduce the errors committed by the operator.

In forests, the microbial populations living in the soil can directly affect the carbon decomposed by the surface plants, and promote carbon storage and stability. In this study, 3 plots of 25.82 m×25.82 m were set up in 5 stand types, respectively. Soil samples were collected from 0~20 cm, 20~40 cm and 40~60 cm layers. Soil microbial composition, organic carbon component, pH, water content, bulk density, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other physicochemical indexes and correlations were determined, and the correlations between soil carbon components and soil microbial functional modules in different mixed modes were analyzed. The results showed that: (1) The SOC of the same soil layer varied significantly, which also showed significant differences on the composition of soil bacteria and fungal microbial communities. Moreover, the bacterial community was more sensitive to the vegetation change environment, and the fungal community structure was more resistant to the influence of soil environment changes. (2) Fun_mod 1,6 and Bac_mod 7 were the microbial functional modules that played a decisive role in the process of soil carbon pool change, and the diversity and composition of bacterial community had more positive effects on soil organic carbon than that of fungal community. (3) Linear fitting and RDA results showed that POC in soil had the strongest correlation with SOC content, indicating that soil microorganisms affected the storage and stability of soil carbon mainly by regulating the conversion of surface plants (carbon sources) into POC. The soil environment of different mixed modes has different effects on soil carbon accumulation. Soil microorganisms affect soil carbon storage and stability mainly by regulating the conversion of surface plants (carbon sources) into POC forms.

The aim of the study was the comparison of conventional sintering versus additive manufacturing techniques for β-TCP bioceramics, focusing on mechanical properties and biocompatibility. A "critical" bone defect requires surgical intervention beyond simple stabilization. Autologous bone grafting is the gold standard treatment for such defects but it has its limitations. Alloplastic bone grafting using synthetic materials is becoming increasingly popular. The use of bone graft substitutes has increased significantly and current research was focused on optimizing these substitutes, whereas this study compares two existing manufacturing techniques and the thereby produced β-TCP implants. The 3D-printed β-TCP hybrid structure implant was fabricated using two components, a column structure and a freeze-foam, which were sintered together. The conventionally manufactured ceramics were made by pouring. Both scaffolds were characterized according to porosity, mechanical properties and biocompatibility. The hybrid structure had a total porosity of 74.4 ± 0.5%. Microporous β-TCP implants had a porosity of 43.5 ± 2.4%, while macroporous β-TCP implants had a porosity of 61.81%. Mechanical testing revealed that the hybrid structure had a compressive strength of 10.4 ± 6 MPa, significantly lower than the microporous β-TCP implant’s with 32.9 ± 8.7 MPa. Biocompatibility evaluations showed a steady increase in cell proliferation over time for all β-TCP implants, with minimal cytotoxicity. This study provides valuable insight into the potential of additive manufacturing for β-TCP bioceramics in the treatment of bone defects.

Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacter spp. Serratia marcescens, Citrobacter freundii, Providencia spp. and Morganella morganii (CP-ESCPM) are increasingly identified as causative agents of nosocomial infections but are still not under systematic genomic surveillance. In this study, using a combination of whole genome sequencing and conjugation experiments, we sought to elucidate the genomic characteristics and transferability of resistance genes in clinical CP-ESCPM isolates from Bulgaria. Among the 36 sequenced isolates, NDM-1 (12/36), VIM-4 (11/36), VIM-86 (8/36) and OXA-48 (7/36) carbapenemases were identified; two isolates carried both NDM-1 and VIM-86. The majority of carbapenemase genes were found on self-conjugative plasmids. IncL plasmids were responsible for the spread of OXA-48 among E. hormaechei, C. freundii and S. marcescens. IncM2 plasmids were generally associated with the spread of NDM-1 in C. freundii and S. marcescens, and also of VIM-4 in C. freundii. IncC plasmids were involved in the spread of the recently described VIM-86 in P. stuartii isolates. IncC plasmids carrying blaNDM-1 and blaVIM-86 have been observed too. blaNDM-1 was also detected on IncX3 in S. marcescens and on IncT plasmid in M. morganii. The significant resistance transfer rates highlight the role of the ESCPM group as a reservoir of resistance determinants and stress the need for strengthening the infection control measures.

The most important prognostic factors in curatively treated prostate cancer at the initial diagnosis are T and N stage, histological subtype, Gleason score, initial PSA, PSA density and percentage of core biopsy positivity. Newer, but non-standard prognostic factors are urine PCA3 and genetic markers of prostate cancer. A simple, but seemingly underestimated standard test is serum Calcium (Ca) level, which has been shown by a previous study group to be a good predictor of lethal prostate cancer, but there is scarce evidence regarding the prognostic value of calcium levels at diagnosis. We aimed to determine whether a Ca level in the upper part of normal values has a prognostic value in curatively treated prostate cancer. We have retrospectively included 84 consecutive patients with prostate cancer, who underwent curative radiotherapy (primary or adjuvant; external beam RT with or without brachytherapy). We have performed statistical analysis of available prognostic factors. Ca level at diagnosis was found to be a statistically significant predictor of disease-free survival.

Introduction/Aim: Central sensitivity to thyroid hormones refers to the sensitivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis to changes in circulating free thyroxine (fT4). The relationship between fT4 levels and iodine intake is complex. The aim of the present study was to assess central sensitivity to thyroid hormones in pregnancy against iodine intake. Materials & Methods: One thousand one hundred two blood and urine samples were collected from pregnant women (with a mean age+SD of 30.4+4.6 years) during singleton pregnancies; women with known/diagnosed thyroid disease were excluded. Specifically, TSH & fT4 and 24-hour urinary iodine excretion (UI) were measured in each trimester and at two months postpartum. The Thyroid Feedback Quantile-based Index (TFQI) was calculated to assess central sensitivity to thyroid hormones. For the statistical analysis of TFQI by time period, analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used, while Pearson's correlation was used to assess TFQI versus UI. Results: The mean TFQI index ranged from -0.06 (first trimester) to -0.07 (two months postpartum), while the corresponding UI was 141 and 172 μg/L, respectively. The TFQI-UI correlation was negative (Pearson r: -0.325, p: 0.04 and r: -0.399, p: 0.023), for UI values over 250 μg/L, in the first and the third trimester of pregnancy, respectively. Discussion: TFQI is a new index reflecting central sensitivity to thyroid hormones. Lower TFQI indicates higher sensitivity to thyroid hormones. In our sample TFQI was inversely related to iodine intake, in the first trimester of pregnancy (the critical period of organogenesis) and the third trimester (the critical period of fetal growth). Thus, the observed changes in TFQI may reflect different ways of central action of thyroid hormones, according to the phase of pregnancy. The negative association between maternal TFQI (indicative of central sensitivity to thyroid hormone) and urine iodine levels during the third trimester of pregnancy may reflect the combined influence of maternal and fetal thyroid function. Our results are intriguing and have the potential to enhance our comprehension of the changes in the HPT axis’ function via variations in central sensitivity to thyroid hormones and its interplay with nutritional iodine status during pregnancy.

The electric vehicle (EV) industry is experiencing rapid growth, accompanied by continuous advancements in charging infrastructure to satisfy the rising need for fast and reliable charging. Particularly, the focus has shifted towards EV fast charging (EVFC) and its impact on the power grid. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis and survey of scholarly literature and projects conducted in this field over the past decade. The findings highlight the rising demand for EVFC and the need to address its potential adverse effects on the power grid. However, there is a noticeable lack of clear research guidance regarding charging time. To tackle these challenges and pave the way for future solutions, extensive research on DC fast charging, ultra-fast charging, and the integration of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems is required. This review paper thoroughly investigates the development of fast charging technology for electric vehicles (EVs), including its advantages and comparative analyses from various perspectives. Furthermore, it delves into the advancements in DC fast charging infrastructure, emphasizing charging standards and control modes. The study also investigates different categories of battery chargers for both on-board and off-board charging. Additionally, it explores the classification of DC-DC converters in the context of DC fast charging stations, discusses control strategies for EV systems, identifies existing challenges, and outlines future trends in EV fast charging.

The Double U-pipe ground heat exchanger, recognized for its straightforward process, cost-effectiveness, high heat exchange efficiency, and low thermal resistance, stands as the predominant ground heat exchanger type in today's shallow geothermal energy development and utilization. Recent years have seen significant research into the heat transfer influencing factors and heat exchange performance of Double U-pipe ground heat ex-changers via experimental testing methods. Yet, studies integrating numerical simulation with in-situ testing have been less frequent. Drawing on the cylindrical heat source model theory and the outcomes of regional in-situ thermal response tests, this paper develops a Double U-pipe ground heat transfer model by establishing physical, mathematical, and heat transfer geometric models. It assesses the impact of varying inlet temperatures, flow rates, and initial ground temperatures on heat exchange efficiency under heating conditions. The results validate the precision of the double U-pipe ground heat exchanger model based on in-situ testing. They show that enhancing the temperature differential between the inlet and initial temperatures, elevating the initial ground temperature, and moderately increasing the flow rate can boost the system's heat exchange efficiency.

(1) Background: The aim of the research was to present and emphasize the importance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in diagnosing Achilles tendon (AT) ruptures by presenting case reports. (2) Materials and Methods: The sample of respondents included 7 patients (4 males and 3 females, 2 athletes and 5 non-athletes), aged 25 to 58 years, with AT injuries, who were examined and treated at the Institute for Treatment and Rehabilitation "Niška Banja", Niš, Serbia. Ankle examinations with MRI were conducted using the Esaote O-scan 0.3 T machine. The examinations were performed without the application of a paramagnetic contrast agent and without the use of anesthesia. Results: The MRI method's sensitivity and overall diagnostic accuracy were excellent, with 100% true positives. In our study, the method accurately detected the presence, location, and severity of AT injuries in all cases. MRI is an important and reliable method for detecting AT injuries, classifying them, monitoring the course of recovery, and assessing the effects of therapy. Conclusions: An unrecognized or delayed diagnosis of an AT injury can lead to chronic changes. Timely diagnosis (clinical examination, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging) and appropriate treatment (conservative or operative) enable patients to return to normal activities, including sports. Unfortunately, the use of MRI is limited by restricted access and the cost of the examination.

Vaccination, particularly against pneumoccus and influenza, is a low-cost primary prevention, useful to avoid hard complications, particularly among frail older people. In this study, we aimed to assess the effect of a strategy for influenza and pneumococcal vaccination for outpatients, never practiced before, evaluating what could stimulate or demotivate vaccination among older people. This study was conducted during the 2023-2024 influenza season at the outpatient clinics of the Geriatrics section, University Hospital of Palermo (Italy). A total of 101 vaccinations were carried out. Half of the patients could be considered as pre-frail and about 20% frail, according to a comprehensive geriatric evaluation. Among participants, 46.3% received only vaccination against Pneumococcus and 26.8% only anti-influenza or the combination of anti-pneumococcus and anti-influenza. Compared with the previous seasons, a 19.5% increase of influenza and 90.2 % of pneumococcal vaccine uptake was observed. Side effects of vaccination were the main reason of the previous rejections, namely 74.8% for influenza and 29.5% for anti-pneumococcal vaccination. In conclusion, our study indicates how a new vaccination strategy in different settings is possible. Proposing influenza and pneumococcal vaccination for outpatients could be an effective instrument to improve immunization coverage that is still low among older people.

Background: The aim of this experimental work was to confirm the individual uniqueness of lip prints, to verify the presence of recurrent patterns according to the Suzuki and Tsuchihashi classification and to search for characteristics that can be used in establishing the sex of a subject. Methods: Lip prints were taken from a sample of 172 volunteers using liquid lipstick and transparent adhesive tape and were digitally analyzed. Results: 59 prints (35.3%) were not considered for Suzuki and Tsuchihashi classification due to quality errors and the impossibility of visualizing lip wrinkles in one or more sextants, all the digitized prints revealed themselves to be unique after having been analyzed using superimposition. Qualitatively valid prints indicated a prevalence of Type II in both male and female and the presence of sex-linked features. A major problem was that the analysis of the same print by different operators often resulted in a different attribution of a Type. Conclusions: The potential of cheiloscopy lies mainly in the matching of prints, given their uniqueness, and can be a valid tool in gender determination but the absence of a database greatly limits its use. It is necessary to establish an acquisition protocol for taking and analyzing prints that could reduce the errors committed by the operator.

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a cholestatic liver disease characterized by immune-mediated injury to small bile ducts. Although PBC is an autoimmune disease, the results of traditional immunosuppressive therapy are disappointing. Nearly 40% of PBC patients do not respond to the first-line drug UDCA. Without appropriate intervention, PBC patients would eventually progress to liver cirrhosis and even death. There is an urgent need to develop new therapies. The gut-liver axis emphasizes the interconnection between the gut and the liver, and there is increasing evidence that gut microbiota and bile acids play an important role in cholestatic diseases. Dysbiosis of gut microbiota, imbalance of bile acids, and immune-mediated bile duct injury constitute the triad of pathophysiology in PBC. Understanding the gut microbiota-bile acid network and corresponding immune functions in PBC provides a new perspective for its treatment strategies. Therefore, we summarize the latest advancements in research of gut microbiota and bile acids in PBC and, for the first time, explore the potential of immune factors related to them as novel immunotherapy targets. This article discusses potential therapeutic approaches focusing on regulating gut microbiota, maintaining bile acid homeostasis, their interactions, and related immune factors.

During choriogenesis in insects, chorion (eggshell) is formed by surrounding follicular epithelial cells in ovarioles. However, the regulatory endocrine factor(s) activating choriogenesis and the chemical components on eggshell deserve further exploration. In two representative Coleopterans, a Coccinellid Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata and a Chrysomelid Leptinotarsa decemlineata, genes encoding the 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) receptor heterodimer, ecdysone receptor (EcR) and ultraspiracle (USP), and two chitin biosynthesis enzymes UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase (UAP) and chitin synthase (ChS1), were highly expressed in ovaries of the young females. RNA interference (RNAi)-aided knockdown of either HvEcR or Hvusp in H. vigintioctopunctata inhibited oviposition, suppressed the expression of HvChS1, and lessened the positive signal of Calcofluor staining on the chorions, which suggests the reduction of a chitin-like substance (CLS) deposited on eggshells. Similarly, RNAi of LdEcR or Ldusp in L. decemlineata constrained oviposition, decreased the expression of LdUAP1 and LdChS1, and declined CLS contents in the resultant ovaries. Knockdown of LdUAP1 or LdChS1 caused similar defective phenotypes, i.e., reduced oviposition and CLS contents in the L. decemlineata ovaries. These results, for the first time, indicate that 20E signaling activates choriogenesis in two Coleopteran species. Moreover, our findings propose the deposition of a CLS on the chorions.

Verticillium wilt is a soil borne disease caused by distinct vegetative compatibility groups (VCG) of the fungus Verticillium dahliae. Two V. dahliae isolates were recovered from symptomatic cot-ton plants in Australian cotton fields and were assigned to two distinct vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs). One corresponding to the defoliating (VCG 1A) and the other non-defoliating (VCG 2A) pathotypes of Verticillium, have been transformed with Red and Green Fluorescent protein genes, respectively. The transformants maintained their ability to infect cotton and both strains were observed to colonise the xylem vessels of cotton plants. Moreover, we observed that the cotton V. dahliae strains could also infect some sampled non-Gossypium species found in the Australian landscape. The fluorescently labelled strains of V. dahliae will allow us to gain a thorough understanding of the infection processes of this important pathogen.

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD) is not only associated with traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as T2DM and obesity, but it is also an independent risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. MASLD has been shown to be independently related to endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. MASLD is characterized by a chronic proinflammatory response that, in turn, may induce a prothrombotic state. Several mechanisms such as endothelial and platelet dysfunction, changes in the coagulation cascade, decreased fibrinolytic activity can contribute to induce the prothrombotic state. Platelets are players and addresses of metabolic dysregulation; obesity and insulin resistance are related to platelet hyperactivation. Furthermore, platelets can exert a direct effect on liver cells, particularly through the release of mediators from granules. Growing data in literature support the use of antiplatelet agent as a treatment for MASLD. The use of antiplatelets drugs seems to have potential clinical implication for the prevention of HCC patients with MASLD, since platelets contribute to fibrosis progression and cancer development. This review aims to summarize the main data on the role of platelets in the pathogenesis of MAFLD and its main complications such as cardiovascular events and the development of liver fibrosis. Furthermore, we will examine the role of antiplatelet therapy not only in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular events but also as a possible anti-fibrotic and anti-tumor agent.

Keywords: Marine Coasts; Protected Areas; Defense and Conservation; Asbestos Cement Materials; Wastes; Contamination; Human Health Risk; Medical Geology.

Introduction: Substance-induced psychotic disorder (SIPD) is a mental health condition linked to the use of a psychotropic substance whose pathogenesis has not been totally clarified. The present retrospective observational study has the objective to identify differences in clinical features and peripheral biomarkers in SIPD patients according to the main substance of abuse.Methods: A total sample of 218 patients was divided in 3 groups according to the type of consumed substance: alcohol, cannabis and psychostimulants. The 3 groups were compared for continuous variables by one-way analyses of variance (ANOVAs) and for qualitative variables by χ² tests. After removing alcohol-induced psychotic disorder group, the same analyses were repeated. Statistically significant variables from these latter analyses were included in a binary logistic regression model to confirm their reliability as predictors for cannabis- or psychostimulants-induced psychotic disorders. Results: Psychotic cannabis abusers were younger (p<0.01) and had an earlier age at onset (p<0.01). On the contrary, alcohol consumers resulted to have a longer duration of illness (p<0.01), more previous hospitalizations (p=0.04), more frequent medical comorbidity (p<0.01), higher mean Modified Sad Person Scale scores (p<0.01). Finally, psychostimulant abusers had more frequently a lifetime history of poly-substance use disorders (p<0.01). Binary logistic regression revealed that higher mean Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale scores (p<0.01) higher sodium (p=0.012) and haemoglobin(p=0.040) plasma levels were predictors of cannabis misuse in SIPD patients.Conclusions: Different clinical factors and biochemical parameters con be associated to SIPD according to the main substance of abuse, thus requiring a specific management by clinicians.

Background: Fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs) have been proposed as an alternative to traditional metal alloys for the realization of frameworks in full-arch implant supported prostheses. The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate the deflection under load of seven prostheses endowed with frameworks made of different materials, including different types of fiber reinforced composites (FRCs). Methods: A master cast with four implant analogues in correspondence of the two lateral incisors and the two first molars was used to create full-arch fixed prostheses with the same shape and different materials. Prostheses were made in different materials (framework+veneering material): gold alloy+resin (Au+R), titanium+resin (Ti+R), FRC with multi-directional carbon fibers+resin (ICFRC+R), FRC with unidirectional carbon fibers+composite (UCFRC+C), FRC with glass fibers+resin (GFRC+R), FRC with glass fibers+composite (GFRC+C), resin (R, full-acrylic prosthesis). Flexural tests were conducted using Zwick/Roell Z 0.5 machine and the deflection of the lower surface of the prosthesis was measured in order to obtain load/deflection graphs. Results: Greater rigidity and less deflection were recorded for UCFRC+C, GFRC+C, followed by Ti+R, and Au+R. The greatest deformations were observed for resin alone, ICFRC+R and GFRC+R. The results were slightly different in the incisal region probably due to the greater amount of veneering material in this area. Conclusions: When used to realize full-arch frameworks, Au and Ti allow a predictable mechanical behavior with gradual deformations with increasing load. UCFRC also demonstrated good outcomes and less deflection than ICFRCs when loaded. The GFRC full-arch framework may be a valid alternative, however showed greater deflections. Further studies are needed in order to evaluated how different prosthesis design and material thickness might affect the outcomes.

Liver disease can significantly impact life expectancy, making early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention critical challenges in medical care. Imaging diagnostics play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing liver diseases. Recently, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical imaging analysis has become indispensable for healthcare. AI, trained on vast datasets of medical images, has sometimes demonstrated diagnostic accuracy that surpasses human experts. AI-assisted imaging diagnostics are expected to contribute significantly to the standardization of diagnostic quality. Furthermore, AI has the potential to identify image features imperceptible to humans, thereby playing an essential role in clinical decision-making. This capability enables physicians to formulate more accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Additionally, AI is anticipated to become a powerful tool in personalized medicine. By integrating individual patient imaging data with clinical information, AI can propose optimal treatment plans, making it an essential component in providing the most appropriate care for each patient. Current reports highlight the advantages of AI in managing liver diseases. As AI technology continues to evolve, it is expected to further advance personalized diagnostics and treatments, contributing to overall improvements in healthcare quality.

Bearing fault diagnosis is crucial for ensuring the stable operation of mechanical equipment. With the continuous development of deep learning technology, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have demonstrated significant advantages in the field of fault diagnosis. This paper proposes a new method that combines various CNN architectures to improve the accuracy of bearing fault diagnosis. We designed five different convolutional network structures, including SerConv, ResConv, One-Shot Aggregation Convolution (OSAConv), Cross-Stage Aggregation Convolution (CSAConv), and MD-DAConv. Experimental results on the Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) bearing dataset show that the proposed method exhibits high accuracy and robustness in fault diagnosis. The results indicate that strategies such as multi-directional, multi-scale, and residual connections play a crucial role in enhancing the depth and breadth of feature extraction, while simple and effective feature fusion and information transmission mechanisms are key to ensuring the robustness and generalization ability of the model.

In relativity, the Newtonian concepts of velocity and acceleration are observer-dependent quantities that vary with the chosen frame of reference. It is well established that in the comoving frame, cosmic expansion is currently accelerating; however, in the rest frame, this expansion is actually decelerating. In this paper, we explore the implications of this distinction. The traditional measure of cosmic acceleration, denoted by q, is derived from the comoving frame and describes the acceleration of the scale factor a for a 3D space-like homogeneous sphere. We introduce a new parameter q_E representing the acceleration experienced between observers within the light cone. By comparing q_E to the traditional q using observational data from Type Ia supernovae (SN) and the radial clustering of galaxies and quasars (BAO)—including the latest results from DESI2024—our analysis demonstrates that q_E aligns more closely with these data. The core argument of the paper is that Λ—regardless of its origin—creates an event horizon that divides the manifold into two causally disconnected regions analogous to conditions inside a black hole’s interior, thereby allowing for a rest-frame perspective q_E in which cosmic expansion appears to be decelerating and the horizon acts like a friction term. Such a horizon suggests that the universe cannot maintain homogeneity outside. The observed cosmological constant Λ can then be interpreted not as a driver of new dark energy or a modification of gravity but as a boundary term exerting an attractive force, akin to a rubber band, resisting further expansion and preventing event horizon crossings. This interpretation calls for a reconsideration of current cosmological models and the assumptions underlying them.

In a multivariable system there are usually a number of relaxation times. When some of the relaxation times are shorter than others, the corresponding variables will decay to their equilibrium value faster than the others. After the fast variables have decayed, the system can be described with a smaller number of variables. From the theory of nonequilibrium thermodynamics, as formulated by Onsager, we know that the coefficients in the linear flux-force relations satisfy the so-called Onsager symmetry relations. The question we will address in this paper is how to eliminate the fast variables such that the coefficients in the reduced description for the slow variables still satisfy the Onsager relations. As the proof Onsager gave of the symmetry relations does not depend on the choice of the variables, it is equally valid for the subset of slow variables. Elimination procedures that lead to symmetry breaking are possible, but do not consider systems that satisfy the laws of nonequilibrium thermodynamics.

Mammalian species possess sophisticated innate immune mechanisms that collectively combat a wide array of viral pathogens. Among these, the well-characterized interferon (IFN) response has been extensively researched; however, the role of antiviral RNA interference (RNAi) in mammals is emerging as an area of significant interest. Previous research has noted that Dicer, an enzyme crucial for processing double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), exhibits reduced activity in vitro, and that the IFN response may overshadow or inhibit the antiviral functions of RNAi in mammalian cells. Consequently, the functional relevance of RNAi in antiviral defense within mammalian somatic cells remains an open question. The evolution of antiviral systems in human populations reflects their substantial advantages, paralleling the evolutionary pressure on genomes encoding such defense mechanisms. While the well-studied protein-guided immune responses in mammals are essential for survival in viral environments, small RNA-mediated antiviral systems, which utilize complementary base pairing to silence non self-genetic material, also play a crucial role. In mammals, evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate genes integral to antiviral responses, and emerging data indicate that small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), and transfer RNAs (tRNAs) can directly target virus-derived nucleic acids. This review aims to highlight some of the recent progress in understanding mammalian antiviral RNAi mechanisms.

Proteomics is the study of cellular proteome by investigating how different proteins interact with each other and the roles they play in the organism. For mRNA expression levels do not always correlate well with protein expression levels, and the study of mRNA does not consider protein posttranslational modifications (PTMs), complex formation and localization; all of which are key to protein function. Quantitative proteomics uses mass spectrometry to identify and quantify proteins so as to find differentially expressed proteins under different condition. This allows us to gain biological insights under stress or other pathological conditions. posttranslational modifications, such as lysine acetylation, succinylation and lactylation, occur after protein biosynthesis and play vital roles in protein activity and cell physiology regulation. Here we present the mass spectrometry analysis in detail to unveil protein acylase and deacylase’ roles in metabolic regulation based on PTMomics lysine acetylome and suincylome.

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) helps identify different types of tissues and provides important information about the pattern, shape, and structure of cells in a tissue sample. It is a very useful tool and widely used to uncover histology and pathology diagnosis uses. The IHC is a very useful tool to conduct research in the developmental biology area. Some insects, like butterflies, bees, beetles, ants, wasps, and moths, undergo a unique life cycle called complete metamorphosis, which has four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Larvae are often wingless and have different habits and forms than adults, which are better suited for growth and development. During the metamorphosis, how does the insect legs change is a really an interesting issue.To better understand insect development, agriculture pest control, and insect pathogen interaction, here we use an insect Bombyx mori (domestic silk moth) as a model to detail how to conduct the IHC assays, such as HE staining, TUNEL to see the cell apoptosis, pH3 and BrdU staining to check cell division. The reagents can be easily found, and this step-by-step protocol is easily reproduced.

The maritime industry contributes to over 80% of global trade and ranks as the sixth-largest emitter of greenhouse gases. The International Maritime Organization has taken strides to reduce these emissions, while the European Union spearheads efforts to establish sustainable maritime transport. However, meeting decarbonisation targets poses significant challenges, with the potential implications of adopting an EU Emission Trading System (ETS) on shipping allowances, particularly at specific borders. If not managed effectively, this could result in diversifying regular container shipping routes away from EU ports, potentially leading to increased shipping emissions and disrupting the logistics trade and security chain. These challenges are exacerbated by the International Maritime Organization's lack of a carbon fee on bunkering, which creates an imbalance. The ETS Directive has fostered unfair competition between EU and non-EU ports due to discrepancies in applying emission unit allowances. It is imperative to implement preventive measures to contain and prevent the shift of operations from EU ports to nearby ports, ensure equitable treatment of EU transhipment ports and their competitors, and thwart carbon leakage. Additionally, the recent Houthis attacks on the Red Sea have significantly impacted shipping costs on the Cape of Good Hope route to Europe, necessitating increased allowances to and from Europe.

The implementation of systems condition monitoring is of utmost importance in ensuring effective maintenance, optimal efficiency, and adherence to established design criteria. This research presents a novel and economically efficient Digital Twin Model (DTM) designed for the purpose of Live Condition Monitoring (LCM) and Predictive Lifecycles. This study discusses the enhancement of DTs modelling by decreasing the number of dimensions from five to three: Physical, Digital, and Connection entities. The resulting model exhibits a notable improvement in accuracy and efficiency. The suggested Dynamic Time Model (DTM) enhances the empirical pre-set average load for both simulation and experimentation by 35.7%, which is equivalent to a 1.6-fold increase. The DTM demonstrates a significant enhancement in the empirical predefined average lifecycles of the system, as shown in the real-life case study. Specifically, the DTM achieves a 12-fold improvement compared to the simulated results and a nine-fold improvement compared to the experimental findings. The suggested Dynamic Time Management (DTM) demonstrates a significant enhancement in the average lifecycles of the system, with a 19.7% improvement (equivalent to 1.2 times greater) compared to the wireless DTM results obtained through the application of the real system load. The suggested Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) method's accuracy and efficiency are shown via a practical case study using the suspension system of a Peugeot 3008 vehicle.

Recurrent sunspot groups were studied by using the Debrecen Photoheliographic Data (DPD) which covers more than 40 years. For this task it is necessary to make unambiguous the identification of the returning solar active regions. It starts with an algorithmic listing of possible returns, then the candidates of the algorithmic identifications are checked by the unique HTML-feature of the DPD. The final check is the application of an asymmetric Gaussian function introduced in previous articles to describe the development of short-lived sunspot groups observed continuously from start to end on the visible solar disc. The data of correctly identified recurrent sunspot groups fit surprisingly well to this function throughout the rotations enabling the reconstruction of the development also on the far side of the sun. The primary goal was to find any relationship between the maximum area and the lifetime deduced from the data of the asymmetric curves. This relationship is more complex than earlier results in the literature for short-lived groups. The lifetimes exhibit weak dependencies on the heliographic latitude and solar cycle phase. An apparently returning active area is rather an active nest if its data do not fit to the asymmetric Gaussian.

Sustainable development advocates for an environmentally friendly and resource-saving approach, fostering a new quality of productivity that is green and sustainable, and achieving a sustainable development where the economy and the environment are in harmony. The paper is based on clarifying the effects of coordinated development between the economy and the environment, and by establishing an indicator system, applying a remote sensing ecological index, entropy weight method, gray relational degree model, and a coupling coordination model, the relationship of coordinated development of Ordos in 2016-2022 is analyzed from a spatial-temporal perspective. The results are as follows: ① The years of coordinated development between the ecological environment and the economy are in the majority, while the uncoordinated years are fewer. ② The level of coordinated development between the ecological environment and the economy in the various regions of Ordos has been increasing year by year, but it still remains at the barely coordinated and primary coordinated levels. ③ The types of coordinated development between the ecological environment and the economy in Ordos exhibit significant spatial differentiation in terms of spatial distribution and clustering.Therefore, it is necessary to formulate coordinated development policies and measures according to the constraining factors of different regions.

In the realm of metal steel and iron manufacturing, there is a constant drive to optimize production efficiency and enhance the quality of the final products. This abstract explores a paradigm shift in this industry through the utilization of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) as a powerful tool for achieving these goals .The study focuses on various critical aspects of the manufacturing process. Firstly, it delves into three-phase processes such as slag and gas entrainment in liquid steel, which have a significant impact on the overall product quality. Understanding and optimizing these processes is crucial to ensure the desired chemical composition and physical properties of the final metal.The abstract investigates the role of CFD in vacuum degassing, a process that plays a pivotal role in removing impurities, such as hydrogen and oxygen, from the liquid steel. By leveraging CFD to simulate and analyze the fluid flow patterns, researchers and engineers can design more efficient vacuum degassing systems, leading to improved product purity and reduced waste.Another crucial aspect explored in this abstract is the alloy melt and mixing process. By employing CFD simulations, researchers can gain insights into the movement of different alloy components and optimize their distribution within the melt. This aids in achieving the desired alloy composition, ensuring uniformity, and enhancing the mechanical properties of the final product.In addition, the study delves into the movement and flotation of inclusions, which are unwanted impurities present in the metal. CFD can be utilized to model and analyze the behavior of these inclusions, enabling engineers to design efficient strategies for their removal, thereby enhancing the purity and integrity of the final product.Moreover, the abstract considers the impact of melt temperature losses, which can occur during different stages of the manufacturing process. By employing CFD, it becomes possible to understand and mitigate these temperature losses, leading to improved energy efficiency and better control over the manufacturing parameters.Part 1 of this abstract critically evaluates the use of CFD in iron making, analyzing its benefits and limitations. It highlights how CFD can aid in process optimization, improving the understanding of complex phenomena involved in iron making, and ultimately leading to enhanced production efficiency.Part 2 focuses on the application of CFD in steel making and steel operation. It explores the fluid flow dynamics during different stages of steel production, including refining, casting, and rolling. By leveraging CFD, engineers can optimize these processes, leading to improved product quality, reduced defects, and increased productivity.This abstract demonstrates the transformative potential of Computational Fluid Dynamics in metal, steel, and iron manufacturing. By utilizing CFD as a tool to model and analyze complex fluid flow phenomena, researchers and engineers can revolutionize the production process, maximizing efficiency, and ensuring high-quality end products.

Depression, anxiety, and pain are part of a common phenomenon that requires to be studied together when evaluating patients with chronic pain. The aim of the study was to examine the correlations between depression, anxiety and pain intensity in patients with chronic pain and how they change when a depressive episode was added. A sample of 120 patients with chronic pain (age: 51.90±11.94; 81.7% female; 18.3% male) was studied in two stages with a three-month period between them. Patients with a depressive episode (n=61) were treated with antidepressants and analgesics, while a patient without depression (n=59) was treated only with analgesics. The scales used to achieve the objectives were: HAM-D-17, Spielberger‘s STAI and VAS. Insignificant correlations were found between depression, state and trait anxiety, and pain intensity (p&lt;0,05) in the group without depression, except for a significant one between depression and state anxiety (p&lt;0,01) in the second stage. Significant correlations were identified between all indicators (p&lt;0,01) in the group with depression at the two stages. Those in the second stage were stronger. The interrelations between sensory and affective aspects of pain were stronger when a depressive episode occurs, the severity of which determines their dynamics.

Measurement of Globe temperature is essential for investigating thermal comfort in street canyon. Globe thermometer is the most common instrument used to measure globe temperature (GT), however its application in scale models is still uncertain and not thoroughly investigated as of today. Therefore, this study is explicitly conducted to investigate globe thermometer measurements and proposed an improvised customization of the globe thermometer size to enhance reliability in scale models. The experiments were carried out outdoors using a typical street canyon model (scale 1:100) with East-West street orientation. The experiment presented a comparison between a low solar reflective street canyon (albedo of 0.4) and a high solar reflective canyon (albedo of 0.6) in terms of surface temperatures, heat flux and globe temperature. Furthermore, this study also investigated the influence of solar orientation on the globe temperature using both experimental using scale models and microclimatic modelling using ENVI-met. It is observed that although the surface temperatures are lower with high solar reflective canyon compared to that with low solar reflective canyon, GT is higher in high reflective canyon during daytime, which could be due to combined effect of direct radiation and shortwave reflection. However, for hours after the sun set, GT becomes lower (up to 1°C) in the case of high reflective canyon compared to low reflective canyon.

Driven by mounting environmental apprehensions stemming from the over dependence on fossil fuels in energy and transportation sectors, extensive exploration into alternative energy sources, particularly biomass, has stimulated profound research on harnessing the potential of computational and mathematical techniques. This comprehensive survey delves into optimal models and strategies, unveiling their pivotal role in the design of biomass gasification processes.of hydrogen through biomass gasification. In this study, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the computational and mathematical techniques employed in optimizing biomass gasification processes, with a specific focus on enhancing hydrogen yield. Through an extensive literature review, various models and strategies will be examined, including thermodynamic analysis, kinetic modeling, reactor design, and process optimization. By uncovering the power of these techniques, we aim to contribute to the advancement of sustainable and efficient biomass utilization for the hydrogen-based future economy.This paper aims to provide an updated and comprehensive coverage of the investigations conducted on the potential of producing hydrogen from biomass through gasification. To achieve this, we incorporate the latest works that have utilized numerical modeling, simulation, optimization techniques, process heat integration, and co-generation in their studies. By encompassing these aspects, we aim to offer a broader and more in-depth re-appraisal of the subject matter. This will ensure that readers gain a holistic understanding of the advances made in the field and the potential for sustainable hydrogen production of biomass gasification.Through a meticulous re-appraisal and analysis of each subject, we can identify their respective strengths and areas that require further research effort. By thoroughly examining numerical modeling, simulation, optimization techniques, process heat integration, and co-generation, we can assess their effectiveness and applicability in the context of biomass gasification for hydrogen production. This analysis shed light on the areas where these techniques excel, as well as pinpoint limitations or gaps in current understanding. By identifying these areas, we can highlight the need for further research and development, enabling us to make significant advancements in biomass gasification processes and pave the way for a sustainable and efficient hydrogen-based future economy..

This review study explores and analyzes distributed database management systems (DDBMS), focusing on the important role of transparency methods in improving the functioning and interaction between users and systems. Transparency in DDBMS refers to several important factors, such as data, replication, performance, scaling, and network transparency. Each one of these components plays a role in concealing the intricate operations that underlie distributed systems from the end user. This not only speeds interactions but also enhances the reliability of the system. The article highlights the criticality of data independence as well as replication transparency in particular. Data independence enables adaptable modifications to the system's architecture and alterations to be made without causing any disruption to user activities. On the other hand, replication transparency ensures that the data remains consistently accurate across distributed nodes, even in the absence of user awareness. Moreover, the article investigates the progression of DDBMS through the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies such as quantum computation and artificial intelligence, which are anticipated to significantly augment the capabilities of data processing. The text proposes potential avenues for further investigation, emphasizing how these advancements may enhance the fundamental resilience of database management systems (DBMS) and expand their applicability in intricate, data-rich settings.

This paper investigates the impact of debt financing on dividend payments when they face the agency costs of free cash flow. Focusing on a sample of 120 firms listed on the Saudi Stock Exchange during the period 2011-2021. The study found a negative association between agency cost of free cash flow and dividend payment. More importantly, our research highlights the significant role of long-term debt in making more prudent use of free cash flow. The obligation to meet interest and principal payments acts as an incentive for them to steer clear of unprofitable expenses and risky investments. Concurrently, long-term debt imposes restrictive clauses in debt contracts, such as minimum dividend distribution requirements, which further encourage higher dividend payments. Since interest and debt repayments are fixed obligations, using free cash flow for dividend disbursement is considered a more profitable and beneficial approach for shareholders in the context of Saudi Arabia.

The effects of climate change health impacts on urban health care systems and vulnerable populations are a researched topic with foundations on urban risk management, urban health methodologies, and sustainable urbanization. As climate change is a dynamic and transformative global issue the gap between adaptation and mitigation efforts and urban planning relies, among other things, in the limitations of previous studies of risk management structures tailored to the existing strategy to calculate the uncertainties and predict their influence on urban systems and subsystems. Moreover, as climate and health is a well-researched issue, it is also complex as the methodologies and strategic approach to minimize health risks of climate change is intrinsically contingent to risk methodologies and policy-making processes that are efficient with support of knowledge-based information. This paper emphasis the need for focusing on urban health risk management methods that serves to identify potential opportunities, and then manage and take action to prevent adverse health effects. It also emphasizes the probability of events and their consequences, which are measurable both qualitatively and quantitatively.

We review time expansion wave theory and refine our model showing it to accurately match observed cosmological luminosity data. The theory augments general relativity to create a container within which quantum effects can be explained by treating time as an artefact of a fourth spatial dimension that we observe as the expansion of the universe. This leads us to explain mass creation, the speed of light limit, gravity, black holes without singularities and other macroscopic effects. Our model leads to an expansion velocity of 6.87 0.36 × 106 ms-1, which results in a Hubble expansion rate constant of 71.3 3.7 km/s/Mpc. Because of the finite window of time in which we exist, an extra a degree of freedom is available leading to interesting interpretations at the subatomic level. At this size range, then a spin is allowed within the time dimension explaining why wave particle duality occurs and explains the electromagnetic force and other quantum mechanical properties. It provides a solution to the double slit conundrum and can explain how quantum entangled partners can behave in a quantum way and pass seemingly time-defying information. The potential quantitative origin of the fine structure constant which governs the size of the electromagnetic force is also strongly indicated by this theory.

Motivated by empirical observations, we propose a possible extension of Gibrat's law. By applying it into the random growth theory of income distribution (Gabaix, 2009), we find that the income distribution is described by a generalized Pareto-type distribution (GPD) with three parameters. We observe that there is a parameter /elta in the GPD that plays a key role in determining the shape of income distribution. By using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, we empirically show that, for typical market-economy countries, /elta is close to 0 significantly, such that the income distribution is characterized by a two-class pattern in which the bottom 90% of the population is approximated by an exponential distribution and the richest 1%~3% is approximated by an asymptotic power law. However, we empirically find that, for China both in planned economy period and in early stages of market reformation (from 1978 to 1990), /elta is significantly deviated from 0, such that the bottom of the population no longer conforms to an exponential distribution.

Despite the expansion of financial institutions and proliferation of mobile financial services, reaching the unbanked and bringing them under formal financial services has become a policy concern in many developing countries. Due to the lack of financial accounts, unbanked people prefer informal, risky, and inconvenient mechanisms for receiving, sending and transferring money. Previous studies rely much on common intervention like no account maintenance and opening fees, easy documentation processes and money subsidies for opening financial accounts. This study aims to examine the impact of the motivational workshop on opening savings accounts through causality among the unbanked people in a setting where the respondents are unbanked despite having all the requirements and many institutional offers for opening savings accounts. We encouraged the unbanked people through a one-hour-long motivational workshop to open saving account. Based on our cross-sectional data and randomized controlled trial experiment among 505 unbanked Village Defense Party (VDP) members at Dhubil Union under Sirajganj in Bangladesh, we have the evidence that motivational workshop positively impacts opening ac-counts by 32.33 percent. However, the account opening rate differs in terms of respondent’s pref-erence for financial institutions. Our study also finds that unbanked people have the highest pref-erence for mobile financial services for opening accounts resulting in 15.33 percent. The result of the study has some policy implications for adopting effective strategies of financial access in many developing countries.

In recent years, many libraries and archives have started digitizing their collections thus making maps by Indigenous peoples more easily available for scholars to study. While a number of these maps were discussed by G. Malcolm Lewis in the History of Cartography series (volume 2, book 3, Chapter 4: 1984), more have since been found and disseminated. These maps are critical in understanding the historic and current land tenure of Indigenous groups. Further, Indigenous claims to land can be seen in their connections via toponymy. European concepts of territory and political boundaries did not coincide with First Nation/American Indian views resulting in the mistaken view that Natives did not have formal concepts of their territories. Further, Tribes/First Nations with cross-border territory have special jurisdictional problems. This paper will illustrate how many Native residents were very spatially cognizant of their own lands, as well as neighboring nations’ lands, overlaps between groups, hunting territories, populations, and trade networks. Currently, the Sinixt First Nation provides a perfect example of how an Aboriginal people are inputting and using a GIS representation of their territory with proper toponymy and use areas.

Particulate matter (PM) is one of the problems faced in environmental science. It has health effects on man and animals in both developed and developing countries. Research and efforts have been on it several years back. Policy statements and efforts have been published. This review paper is an added information on air pollution. In it, efforts were made in discussing these: classification, effects, methodology, case studies and source apportionment. It is hoped that this paper would contribute to existing knowledge on PM.

Aural rehabilitation with hearing aids can decrease the attentional requirements of cognitive resources by amplifying the deteriorated-frequency sound in hearing loss patients and improve the auditory discrimination ability like speech-in-noise perception. As aural rehabilitation with an intelligible-hearing sound also can be hopeful, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the aural rehabilitation with intelligible-hearing sound for hearing loss patients. Adult native Japanese speakers (17 males and 23 females, 68.43±9.23 years) showed over 30 dB at 125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 8000, 10000, and 12000Hz on any side, were recruited and underwent Mini-Mental State Examination Japanese. we conducted self-evaluation questionnaire for hearing problems of voice, gap detection test, fast speech test, and speech-in-noise test, pure tone audiogram, speech perception test using Japanese 67-S, cortical auditory evoked fields, and magnetic mismatch negativity before and after the non-intelligible-hearing (N=20) and intelligible-hearing (N=20) sound therapy with listening to music for one hour a day for 35 days. Better hearing ear was defined using a four-frequency pure-tone average at the thresholds of 500, 1000, 2000 and 4000 Hz. After the sound therapy, speech-in-noise test with signal to noise ratio +10 in better hearing ear showed significant improvement (p&lt;0.05), and N1m-P2m amplitudes showed the significant increase in Lt superior temporal gyrus at the stimulus from better hearing ear (p&lt;0.05). The significant enhancement of the magnetic mismatch negativity amplitude at Lt superior temporal gyrus was exhibited after the sound therapy (p&lt;0.01). Intelligible-hearing sound therapy can improve the ability of speech-in-noise perception in better hearing ear and the enhancement of central cortex response, which reflect the ability of working memory, was proved by cortical auditory evoked fields and magnetic mismatch negativity. Intelligible-hearing sound therapy can be a valuable aural rehabilitation method for sensory neural hearing loss as same as hearing aids.

Lifestyle interventions can prevent type 2 diabetes (T2DM). However, some in-dividuals do not experience anticipated improvements despite weight loss. Bi-omarkers to identify such individuals at early stages are lacking. IGF-1 and IGFBP-1 were shown to predict T2DM onset in prediabetes. We assessed if these markers also predict the success of lifestyle interventions, thereby possibly guid-ing personalized strategies. We analyzed fasting serum levels of IGF-1, IGFBP-1 and IGFBP-2 in relation to changes in metabolic and anthropometric parameters, including intrahepatic li-pids (IHL) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) volume measured by MRI, in 345 high-risk prediabetic participants (54% female; aged 36-80 years). Participants were enrolled in three randomized dietary intervention trials and assessed both at baseline and one year post-intervention. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics (version 28), significance set at p

Liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB) has become the cornerstone for the treatment of severe invasive fungal infections. However, renal toxicity may be an associated risk. Our aim was to evaluate the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in critically ill patients receiving L-AmB for more than 48 hours. Clinical, demographic and laboratory variables were obtained retrospectively from electronic health record. Follow-up of the patients was for 7 days after L-AmB infusion. Patients were analyzed globally and differentiated between patients with "low" and "high" risk of developing AKI with machine learning techniques. Sixty-seven patients were included: 61 years, 67% male, with mean SOFA score of 4 (3-6.5) and a crude intensive care unit mortality of 34.3%. No significant variations in serum creatinine were observed during the observation period, except for the decrease in the high-risk subgroup. Overall, 26.8% of patients developed AKI-I, while 25% and 13% of patients at low and high risk of AKI developed AKI-I, respectively. The random forest models performed in overall and low-risk subgroup identified several major contributor’s factors to the development of AKI other than L-AmB administration. The development of AKI is multifactorial and the administration of L-AmB appears to be safe in this group of patients.

Issues related to the duration of university studies, have attracted the interest of many researchers from different scientific fields, as far back as the middle of the 20th century. In this study, a Survival Analysis methodology, and more specifically a Cox Proportional hazards model, has been pro-posed to evaluate a theoretical framework/model that relates the risk a student either graduating on time or having a late graduation, with a number of observed and latent factors that have been proposed in the literature as the main determinants of degree completion. The major findings of the analysis suggest that the factors contributing to the shortening of the duration of studies in-clude high academic achievements at early stages, positive motivation, expectations, attitudes, and beliefs about studies. On the contrary, external situations, negative academic experiences and some individual characteristics of the students contribute to an extended duration of studies.

Historically, botanical preparations have been used to improve human health. Their active ingredients are influenced by multiple factors as intraspecies variations, environmental conditions, collection time and methods and the part of the plant used. To ensure the efficiency and safety of these herbal drugs, qualitative and quantitative analyses are required. Tessaria absinthioides decoction (DETa) was reported as hypocholesterolemic, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, antitumor, and antioxidant. This work aimed to analyze DETa, by correlating its chemical composition with cytotoxic and antioxidant properties, to promote its research as an anticancer agent. DETa collections (2017, 2018, 2019 and 2022) were analyzed by UHPLC-UV-Vis, UHPLC-DAD-FLD and UPLC-MS/MS; cytotoxicity was assessed on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line, and antioxidant capacity was evaluated by DPPH and FRAP methods; correlation analysis was used to determine biological and chemical markers. The results evidence that biological activities were consistent across collections. Among the quantified compounds, apigenin, naringin, gallocatechin gallate, ginnalin A, myricetin, epicatechin, OH-tyrosol, quercetin, and chlorogenic, tessaric, p-coumaric, vanillic, caffeic, caftaric, ellagic and rosmarinic acids correlated as bioactive and chemical markers. Moreover, tessaric acid could be established as a species marker. Altogether, these findings add relevant information to DETa properties encouraging further exploration of its potential application as anticancer botanical.

The aim of this article is to discuss the transformative amalgamation of Internet of Things and Machine Learning technologies within the domain of vegetable hydroponic systems for nutrition management. Hydroponics, being an efficient cultivation method, benefits a great deal from the precision and adaptability that machine learning algorithms can offer, along with the real-time monitoring facilitated by the devices using the Internet of Things. This study summarizes the latest research and underlines how ML and IoT may work together, focusing on nutrient optimization, plant development, and resource efficiency. The use of ML algorithms, the function of IoT devices for real-time monitoring, communication protocols, scalability issues, and implementation are among some of the key subjects of the discussion. The research indicates benefits to crop output, efficiency in using resources, and sustainability based on the case studies and the analysis of results. However, ethical problems and some complications concerning data privacy do call for responsible adoptions. The conclusion of this paper provides directions for further research and calls for more investigation into state-of-the-art machine learning approaches and scalable solutions for the re-silient and sustainable future of hydroponic agriculture. The machine learning and deep learning models introduced in this research were evaluated against contemporary studies, revealing an accuracy enhancement ranging from 1.17% to 5.25%, depending on the dataset and algorithm employed. The present study conducts a comparative analysis involving machine learning algo-rithms, indicating that among all the models, the Decision Tree and Gradient Boosting Classifier achieved an accuracy of 99.42% in the dataset by making stage-wise decisions.

The loss of native forests in Argentina has been a concern, driven by factors such as agriculture expansion and urbanization. Therefore, understanding the conservation status of sampled populations and their adaptation to different plant communities is essential. This research focused on the heterogeneity analysis of the associated woody and semi-woody vegetation to Hexachlamys edulis (O. Berg) Kausel & D. Legrand, a species commonly known as "ubajay," in Entre Ríos, Argentina. The study aimed to record the species present in the populations, explore plant communities associated with H. edulis and identify other potentially useful agroforestry species, compare locations based on the similarity of accompanying species, and explain the conservation status of each population. Results revealed a total of 71 species belonging to 39 families. Myrtaceae family was the most relevant, particularly in terms of native species representation. The analysis of biodiversity indicators, including richness, Shannon index and dominance revealed variations among the studied sites. The anthropic indicator highlighted the impact of human activity, with Concordia showing a higher ratio of native to exotic species. Cluster analysis and ordination techniques revealed groupings of censuses from the same localities, indicating differences in vegetation composition between sites. Significant differences in species composition were found among the sampled populations. Overall, the study can serve as baseline information for future research on the dynamics of vegetation in these areas and on H. edulis studied species. Finally, these findings contribute to understanding how wild species like H. edulis adapt to different plant communities, which might be valuable for developing new agroecological approaches or identifying potential companion planting species in future agricultural systems.

Short-circuit blowing is an important technical means to ensure the rapid surfacing of submersible. In order to study the impact of seven multiple manipulation factors of three levels on blowing, a proportional short-circuit blowing model test bench had been built and L18(37) orthogonal experiments were carried out; then, using Back propagation neural network and Pearson correlation analysis, the experimental data were trained and predicted, correlation between individual factor and blowing was further studied as supplement of orthogonal experiments. It had been proved that both multi-factor combination and individual including blowing duration, sea tank back pressure, the gas blowing pressure of the cylinder group, and sea valve flowing area had larger influence, whose correlation coefficients were 0.6535, 0.8105, 0.5569, 0.5373, of which the F-ratio of blowing duration is over critical value 3.24. And statistical evaluation indicators of Back propagation neural network were between 10e-2 and 10e-13, relative error was less than 3%, and prediction error accuracy was 100%. Based on the results above, a reasonable prediction method for submersible short-circuit blowing had been formed and suggestions on engineering design and operations were proposed, including advantage of short-circuit blowing method, initial condition settings and manipulation strategy.

Lualaba Province, located in the southeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, consists of five territories with varied dominant land uses: agriculture (Dilolo, Kapanga, and Musumba in the west) and mining (Mutshatsha and Lubudi in the east). The province also includes protected areas with significant governance challenges. The unique miombo woodlands of Lualaba are threatened by deforestation, posing risks to biodiversity and local livelihoods that depend on these woodlands for agriculture and forestry. To quantify the spatio-temporal dynamics of Lualaba's landscape, we utilized Landsat images from 1990 to 2024, supported by a Random Forest Classifier. Landscape metrics were calculated at multiple hierarchical levels: province, territory, and protected areas. Our provincial-level analysis revealed a pronounced deforestation trend, with miombo woodland cover declining from 62,90 % to less than 25 % over the 34-year period. This trend was characterized by the fragmentation and dissection of woodland patches and a decline in remaining woodland fragments, due to their ongoing replacement by savannas, agriculture, and urbanization. The average distance between miombo woodland patches increased significantly, indicating heightened fragmentation and spatial isolation. Agricultural areas such as Sandoa and Kapanga were particularly vulnerable to deforestation. On the other hand, the miombo forest cover in the mining areas is still representative, with over 30% of the landscape covered. Notably, the reduction in woodland cover within protected areas was substantial, with significant losses observed across both agricultural and mining territories. The loss of miombo woodland cover in Lualaba and its territories was accompanied by an increase in landscape patch diversity, as indicated by the Shannon diversity index, suggesting a shift to more heterogeneous landscapes. These findings underscore a complex deforestation pattern, highlighting the intense local impact on miombo woodland cover loss. Urgent action is needed to implement land conservation policies, promote sustainable agricultural practices, strengthen miombo woodland regulation enforcement, and actively support protected areas. Involvement from both local and international stakeholders is imperative to preserve the ecological richness and functionality of Lualaba Province's miombo woodland ecosystems.

Long COVID is a persistent symptom that appears in many COVID-19 patients, regardless of whether they are asymptomatic, mild, or severe. At least 10% worldwide are suffering from long COVID. The anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells using six Korean national insurance-covered herbal prescriptions with therapeutic potential for mitigating inflammation in the respiratory tract, and additional network pharmacology analysis was performed. Soshihotang (SST) significantly downregulated iNOS and COX2 expression, reduced the production of NO (nitric oxide) and inflammatory cytokines, such as TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6, and inhibited IκBα phosphorylation and reduced the nuclear translocation of NF-κB in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells. Network pharmacological analysis showed that SST was closely related to the NF-κB signaling pathway. Further study on the potential of herbal prescriptions will be needed before they can be used clinically by long COVID patients.

The fuel prices are increasing nowadays, causing a burden on the power system. From this, diesel generators that are still in use, must be hybridized with renewable energy (RE) to levelized the overall projects costs. This study aims to schedule an operation of a hybrid system photovoltaic (PV)/ diesel in a remote area which located in Wadi Rum district in Jordan to serve factory load in addition to obtain the best economical system combination that can serve the needs of a continuous electrical load without any interruption. Based on the results of the analysis using HOMER software, the configuration in the system will be a combination between PV modules, and diesel generator. The hybrid system has met the target for electricity production which is documented in upcoming sections.

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a severe and invariably fatal disease affecting both domestic and wild felines with limited effective therapeutic options available. By considering the significant immunomodulatory effects of vitamin E observed in both animal and human models under physiological and pathological conditions, we have provided a full in-silico investigation of vitamin E and related compounds and their effect on the crystal structure of feline infectious peritonitis virus 3C-like protease (FIPV-3CLpro). This work revealed the β-tocotrienol and δ-tocotrienol analogues as inhibitor candidates for this protein, suggesting their potential as possible drug compounds against FIP or their supplementary use with current medicines against this disease.

Digital transformation, organizational resilience, and agility are now becoming one of the keys to meeting the competitive challenges of modern organizations. It is no surprise that digital transformation and digital technologies have also begun to significantly impact the energy industry, moving towards improving the sector's profitability and efficiency. However, to navigate through the difficult process of digital transformation in today's turbulent environment, organizations, including those in the energy sector, need to build organizational resilience. Nevertheless, the nature of the relationship between digital transformation and organizational resilience has not yet been sufficiently clarified. Focusing on the level of digital transformation, and more precisely within the two dimensions of digital maturity, i.e. digital intensity and transformation management intensity, as well as based on the perspective of dynamic capabilities, this study developed a configurational framework and proposed a theoretical model to study the equifinal paths through which digital transformation and dynamic capabilities influence organizational resilience in energy sector companies. Based on a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fs/QCA) conducted on selected companies in the energy sector, i.e. Polish CHP plants, the relationship between digital transformation, dynamic capabilities and organizational resilience was investigated. The results show that a high level of organizational resilience can be achieved through two main paths based on the dominance of dynamic capabilities and the dominance of digital maturity. The study found that digital maturity can significantly influence CHP resilience. Moreover, the transformation management intensity is strongly related to high organizational resilience. The paper concludes by describing theoretical and practical implications, as well as research limitations and prospects for future research.

Abstract: Since the establishment of multiparty democracy in the 1990s, Malawi has experienced significant political shifts, with elections playing a crucial role in shaping the political landscape. However, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of the spatio-temporal dynamics of election results, especially regarding voting patterns and their effects on electoral outcomes. This gap hinders political parties, politicians, and electoral stakeholders in effectively managing regional and temporal changes in voting behaviors. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are underutilized in Malawi for studying geo-graphical and temporal election data. This study utilized GIS to analyze the spatial pat-terns of election results in Malawi since the advent of multiparty democracy. By collecting geographic data on election outcomes, including vote counts, candidate performance, voter turnout, and other relevant data, the study examined how the geographic distribution of votes impacts electoral results. GIS techniques such as spatial analysis, mapping, and spatial statistics were employed to assess the data and create maps illustrating spatial patterns in Malawi's election outcomes. The study revealed that voting patterns in Malawi are significantly influenced by regional lines. These insights can inform political campaigns, voter mobilization efforts, and strategies for electoral reform.

We conducted a study exploring the potential of the medicinal plant Ziziphus spina-christi as a source of antimicrobial compounds. With the growing threat of antibiotic resistance, we were particularly interested in evaluating plant-derived natural products for their ability to fight infections. We collected Z. spina-christi leaves from four different regions in Sudan and extracted them with ethanol. Our phytochemical screening revealed the presence of several secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, triterpenes, sterols, tannins, saponins, cardiac glycosides, and reducing sugars. Alkaloids and anthraquinones were not detected. We then tested the ethanolic extracts for antimicrobial activity against a range of bacterial and fungal pathogens using the agar well diffusion method. Interestingly, we observed significant differences between the extracts from different locations. The extract from Khartoum city exhibited the highest antimicrobial potency, followed by the extracts from Al-Rahad, Al-Hidiba, and finally Al Damazin. Based on these findings, we concluded that Z. spina-christi leaves contain a diverse array of phytochemicals with potential medicinal applications. The variation in antimicrobial effects between the extracts may be attributed to environmental factors influencing the plant's chemical composition. Further research is warranted to identify the specific bioactive compounds responsible for the observed antimicrobial activities. This could pave the way for the development of plant-based antimicrobial agents to combat drug-resistant pathogens and alleviate the global public health crisis posed by the rise of antibiotic resistance.

This study investigates the impact of fintech, particularly blockchain technology and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), on the art market. As fintech has been widely accepted, the art market has undergone transformations, including increased transaction transparency, enhanced liquidity, improved risk management capabilities, reduced entry barriers to the market, and more developed copyright protection. Using a Vector Autoregression (VAR) model, this paper clarifies the significant effects of fintech, especially the NFTs, on the size and profitability of the art market. The findings not only emphasize the importance of NFTs in developing the art market and increasing investment returns but also provide insights and constructive suggestions for the future growth and sustainable development of the art market. By fostering transparency, efficiency, and accessibility, fintech contributes to a more resilient and sustainable art market, ensuring its long-term prosperity and cultural enrichment.

Businesses now formally enter the phase of "think power differentiation and gap" in response to the new economic climate. While AI, big data, empowerment via the internet, and other aspects of the digital economy help to improve technical capabilities and save operating costs, they also push businesses to innovate their strategies at a faster rate. Enterprises are strategically choosing to de-enterprise, moving from focusing on a single business functioning benefit to building an ecosystem of platform services that will give them a competitive edge. Additionally, the organization's structure is evolving continually from a vertical model to a curved working style, in order to achieve this, businesses must recognize the importance of data analysis in day-to-day management and operations, encourage the development of an organizational atmosphere that is driven by data, fully utilize digital technology, modularize areas or production links that perform related tasks, and encourage the reform of organizational structures. By streamlining the output of the product or service to the external community while also enhancing the company's financial performance model, switching from process-to result-oriented evaluation, and putting in place a customized authority and accountability framework. Replace outcome-focused evaluation with process-focused evaluation, and create a customized incentive scheme that balances power, accountability, and rewards.

To elucidate the cellular immune response to coronavirus disease (COVID-19) among children, we assessed cellular immunity in 8 children post-vaccination for COVID-19 and 11 children after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, using the T-SPOT®.COVID assay for both the spike (S) and nucleocapsid (N) proteins. In the vaccinated group, the T-SPOT®.COVID assay for the S protein yielded positive results in all eight children. In contrast, in the post-infection group, the assay for the N protein was positive in 5 of 11 children, with 3 of these 5 children requiring hospital admission, including 2 who needed mechanical ventilation. Therefore, the T-SPOT®.COVID assay is valuable for assessing cellular immunity against COVID-19, and most children infected with COVID-19 may not develop such immunity unless the disease severity is significant.

This study empirically analyzes the effectiveness of resource optimization utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) within cloud computing environments. It compares systems that have been transitioned from a Monolithic structure to Microservices Architecture (MSA) with those adopting a simple Rehost strategy, to validate the operational efficiency of two systems whose resource efficiency has been enhanced compared to traditional legacy systems. The research is based on systems that determined resource efficiency post-cloud migration using APM tools. It points out the limitations of traditional heuristic operation methods in resource optimization, which lead to issues such as application performance degradation, resource over-allocation, and increased operational costs. This study aims to overcome the conventional resource optimization standards that depended on the average peak usage of CPU and memory infrastructure, by introducing AI-based optimization tools, and applying on-premise standards to cloud and container environments to achieve resource optimization. The paper emphasizes the importance of resource optimization through AI-based automation tools, exploring the possibilities of resolving real-world application performance issues in cloud environments, reducing unnecessary resource usage costs, and cutting down on labor risks and operational expenses. Through this, it presents strategic directions on how AI technology can offer financial and operational advantages in managing cloud resources.

The allocation of funding for higher education typically focuses on competition in neoliberal mechanisms. Surprisingly, much less attention has been paid to considering the effect of fund locations for sustainable development through public goods purposes in neoliberal contexts. This study aims to examine specific funding schemes and determine the influential factors impacting funding for teaching, research, and public goods transformation. Taking Taiwan's Higher Education Sprout Project (HESP) as an example, we explored the effect of policy initiatives on public goods transformation towards sustainable development. The data were collected from the Ministry of Education and Scopus databases. First, a regression analysis was conducted to determine which factors influence the effect of funding allocations in academic institutes. Second, we used logistic regression to detect the effects of the system and the sector. Third, we used partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to explore the causal effects among the selected impact variables on expected outcomes. Finally, we used the bootstrap method to demonstrate the model’s robustness. Our study found that only diversity was shown in private technology groups receiving less HESP funding. At the same time, it did not widen the differences in the sector and system in the transformation process. Our findings suggest that funding allocations will not affect teaching and research based on sectors and systems. In contrast, this study demonstrates that transforming public goods through special funding can play a critical role in leading sustainable development in higher education.

In-depth insights into the profound impacts of climate change and human activities on water resources are garnered through the dynamic changes in surface water, a crucial aspect of effective water resource management and the preservation of aquatic ecosystems. This paper introduces an innovative approach employing the random forest algorithm for the systematic extraction and monitoring of surface water at large regional or national scales. This method integrates spectral bands, spectral indices, and digital elevation model data, offering a novel perspective on this critical task. A data filling model is proposed to mitigate the impact of missing data due to cloud cover. Leveraging the capabilities of the Google Earth Engine (GEE), detailed information on surface water dynamics during the rainy and dry seasons in the Yangtze River Basin (YRB) from 1991 to 2021 is extracted using Landsat time series imagery. The analysis encompasses spatial-temporal variation characteristics and trends, with a specific focus on the intricate interplay between the areal extent of surface water and hydro-meteorological factors in each sub-basin of the YRB. Importantly, this includes considerations of potential groundwater contributions to surface water. Key findings from our research include: (1) Achieving a remarkable overall accuracy of 0.96 ± 0.03 in obtaining reliable surface water datasets with the support of GEE. (2) Identifying significant trends, such as a noteworthy increase in rainy season surface water bodies (+248.0 km2·yr−1) and a concerning decrease in surface ice/snow cover during both rainy and dry seasons, with change rates of −39.7 km2·yr−1 and −651.3 km2·yr−1, respectively. (3) Uncovering the driving mechanisms behind these changes, revealing positive correlations between the areal extent of rainy season surface water bodies and precipitation, as well as negative correlations between surface ice/snow cover area and average surface skin temperature. It is crucial to note that these driving factors exhibit variation among secondary river systems, underscoring the complexity of surface water dynamics. Furthermore, comparative analyses with existing surface water products are conducted, contributing to a deeper understanding of the advantages and uncertainties inherent in our proposed extraction method. The proposed method for large-scale surface water extraction not only enhances the monitoring of spatio-temporal surface water dynamics in the YRB but also provides valuable insights for the sustainable utilization and protection of water resources, considering the potential role of groundwater in supplementing surface water.

Fast-growing teak is widely cultivated in Indonesia to address the supply and demand of teak trees. However, efforts still need to be made to evaluate the condition of standing teak trees during their growth period. Studies on nondestructive testing (NDT) of wood based on electrical properties through dielectric spectroscopy (DS) are recently being developed, especially for standing tree evaluation. The study aimed to analyze the dielectric value of a fast-growing standing teak tree at frequency ranges 250 kHz – 60 MHz and to understand the relationships between physical and anatomical properties. Dielectric spectroscopy data were collected directly on the trees 4, 5, and 7 years old using a capacitance measurement system. Meanwhile, physical and anatomical samples were taken using a Ø 0.5 cm increment borer. The results showed that fiber length (FL), lumen diameter (LD), and fiber wall thickness (FWT) were significantly different at each tree age. This research found the optimal dielectric frequency to discriminate the wood properties in standing trees. There is a weak relationship (R= 0.2) in predicting the anatomical wood properties, while moderate to strong relationships (R= 0.4 to R= 0.8) are found in predicting wood density based on the selected frequency and moisture content variables. Further analyses and data processing can be improved by finding significant variables in the capacitance measurement system.

Barley straw was used to reinforce PHB in a discontinuous semi-industrial process. Four different fibres were used as reinforcing material : sawdust (SW), defibred (DFBF), delignified (DBF) and bleached (BBF) fibres. Looking at the mechanical properties, onlythe elastic moduli (Et) revealed an improvement. Oppositely, the strengths at break, under both tensile and bending assays, tended to decrease, evidencing a poor affinity between both components. Thanks to the mechani-cal treatment applied on the fibre, DFBF appeared as the most promising filler with the mechani-cal properties of the composites closest to those of neat PHB. DFBF-based composites were then produced by means of a process intensification using a twin-screw extruder, and then moulded into flowerpots. Mechanical results showed almost the same properties between the discontinuous and intensification processes. The suitability of the material to be used on agriculture flowerpots was demonstrated by simulation. . PHB-DFBF composite material can be considered an alterna-tive to replace petrol-based products for applications in agriculture and horticulture.

This research addresses the respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm newborns, caused by insufficient surfactant synthesis, which can lead to serious complications, including pneumothorax, pulmonary hypertension, and pulmonary hemorrhage, increasing the risk of a fatal outcome. By analyzing chest radiographs and blood gases, we specifically focus on the significant contributions of these parameters to the diagnosis and analysis of the recovery of patients with RDS. The study involved 32 preterm newborns, and the analysis of gas parameters before and after the administration of surfactants and inhalation corticosteroid therapy revealed statistically significant changes in values of parameters such as FiO2, pH, pCO2, HCO3 and BE (Sig.&lt;0.05), ehile the pO2 parameter showed a potential change (Sig.=0.061). Parallel to this, the research emphasizes the development of a lung segmentation algorithm implemented in the MATLAB programming environment. The key steps of the algorithm include preprocessing, segmentation, and visualization for a more detailed understanding of the recovery dynamics after RDS. These algorithms have achieved promising results, with a global accuracy of 0.93±0.06, precision 0.81±0.16 and an F-score of 0.82±0.14. These results highlight the potential application of algorithms in the analysis and monitoring of recovery in newborns with RDS, also underscoring the need for further development of software solutions in medicine, particularly in neonatology, to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of preterm newborns with respiratory distress syndrome.

This study aims to develop and implement a methodology for retrieving bio-optical parameters in a lagoon located in the Biobío region, in south-central Chile by analyzing time series of Landsat-8 satellite images, specifically using the multispectral OLI sensor. The bio-optical parameters, i.e., chlorophyll-a (mg·m^-3) and turbidity (NTU) were also measured in-situ synchronized with the satellite passes to minimize the impact of atmospheric distortions. To calibrate the satellite images, various atmospheric correction methods (including ACOLITE, C2RCC, iCOR, and LaSRC) were evaluated during the image preprocessing phase. Spectral signatures obtained from the scenes for each atmospheric correction method were then compared with spectral signatures acquired in-situ on the water surface. In short, the ACOLITE model emerged as the best fit for the calibration process. Subsequently, we harnessed the reflectance data derived from the ACOLITE model to establish correlations between various spectral indices and the in-situ data. The empirical retrieval models (based on band combinations) that showed superior performance, as indicated by higher R² values, were subjected to rigorous statistical validation and optimization by applying a bootstrapping approach. Our analysis covered a spectrum of dates, seasons, and years, which allowed us to search deeper into the evolution of the trophic state associated with the lake. We identified a striking eight-year period (2014-2022) characterized by a decline in chlorophyll-a concentration in the lake possibly attributable to governmental measures in the region for the protection and conservation of the lake. The results of this initial study serve as the basis for the creation of a modern monitoring system that enhances traditional point-based methods, offering a holistic view of the ongoing processes within the lake.

The practice of voluntary depigmentation is still prevalent in Africa, with a wide range of lightening cosmetics used. Our objective was to research and quantify three regulated and/or prohibited depigmenting ingredients present in lightening cosmetics sold in Ouagadougou. Twenty-nine lightening cosmetic samples were collected from vendors and HPLC analysis was subsequently conducted to identify and measure the concentrations of hydroquinone, clobetasol propionate, and kojic acid. The presence of hydroquinone was indicated on the label of 13.79% of the products, while 51.72% contained it after analysis. Furthermore, none of the products mentioned a concentration of hydroquinone exceeding 2.00%, even though 27.58% of them contained high concentrations. For clobetasol propionate, its presence was stated on the labels of 13.79% of the products, while 31.03% contained it. One sample had a clobetasol content exceeding 0.05%, although none mentioned a concentration higher than this value. Finally, while 24.13% of the samples claimed to contain kojic acid, only 17.24% did. We also observed that 41.38% of the samples contained combinations of two depigmenting ingredients investigated, with a predominance of the hydroquinone + clobetasol propionate (27.38%). These results demonstrate that manufacturers' declarations regarding the compositions of active ingredients in lightening cosmetics can sometimes be deceptive.

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.

Background: The current review was conducted to determine the effectiveness of atenolol on all-cause mortality rate among Asian patients with chronic progressive diseases, mainly diabetes mellitus, primary hypertension, and coronary artery disease. Methods: We searched the COCHRANE, MEDLINE, TRIP, and EMBASE databases for published articles up to 31 March 2023. Studies that compared all-cause mortality rates among Asian patients who were on atenolol or other medications were included. Results: The review included 79603 Asian patients from three cohort studies. Out of the studied patients, 36046 were atenolol users and 43557 were non-atenolol users. The review revealed that atenolol users recorded lower all-cause mortality rates compared to non-users with a significant difference (OR= 0.57, CI= 0.44-0.75, P<0.001). The pooled estimate of the all-cause mortality rate was also lower among atenolol users (7.02%) compared to metoprolol tartrate users (13.15%) with a significant difference (OR= 0.50, CI= 0.47-0.53, p < 0.0001). Although the included studies were categorized as having a low risk of bias for most of the studied domains, significant heterogeneity was recorded across these studies (I2 =88%, P=0.001). Conclusion: This review found that atenolol when compared to a control or metoprolol tartrate, has a significant effect in reducing the all-cause mortality rate among Asian patients with chronic progressive disease.

This research analyses extreme precipitation events in the Huaihe River Basin in China, a densely populated region with a history of human settlements and agricultural activities. This study aims to explore the impact of extreme precipitation index changes and provide decision-making suggestions for flood early warning and agricultural development in the Huaihe River Basin. The study utilises the NEX-GDDP-CMIP6 climate models dataset and the daily value dataset (V3.0) from China's national surface weather stations to investigate temporal and spatial changes in extreme precipitation indices from 1960 to 2014 and future projections. At the same time, this study adopted the RclimDex model, Taylor diagram and Sen+Mann-Kendall trend analysis research methods to analyse the data. The results reveal a slight increase in extreme precipitation indices from northwest to southeast within the basin, except for CDD, which shows a decreasing trend. Regarding spatial, the future increase of extreme precipitation in the Huaihe River Basin will show a spatial variation characteristic that decreases from northwest to southeast. These findings suggest that extreme precipitation events are intensifying in the region. Understanding these trends and their implications is vital for adaptation strategy planning and mitigating the risks associated with extreme precipitation events in the Huaihe River Basin.

Conjugative transposons in Gram-negative bacteria have a significant role in the dissemination of antibiotic-resistance-conferring genes between bacteria. This study aims to genomically characterize plasmids and conjugative transposons carrying integrons in clinical isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae. Genetic composition of conjugative transposons and phenotypic assessment of 50 multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae isolates from Tertiary-care Hospital (SQUH), Muscat, Oman was investigated. Horizontal transferability was investigated by filter- mating conjugation experiments. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was performed to determine the sequence type (ST), acquired resistome and plasmidome of integron-carrying strains. Class 1 integron was detected in 96% of isolates and among integron-positive isolates, 18 stains contained variable regions. Horizontal transferability by conjugation confirmed the successful transfer of integrons between cells and WGS confirmed their presence in conjugative plasmids. Dihydrofolate reductase (dfrA14) was the most prevalent (34.8%) gene cassettes in class 1 integrons. MLST analysis detected predominantly ST-231 and ST-395. BlaOXA-232 and blaCTX-M-15 were the most frequently detected carbapenems and beta-lactamases in sequenced isolates. This study highlighted the high transmissibility of MDR-conferring conjugative plasmids in clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae. Therefore, the wise use of antibiotics and the adherence to effective infection control measures are necessary to limit further dissemination of multidrug-resistant organisms.

Background and Objectives: The current study aimed to determine the impact of fasciotomy on mortality and morbidity in children and adults with crush-related AKI following the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes. Materials and Methods: The study included individuals who had suffered crush injuries after the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes and were identified as having acute kidney injury (AKI). Patients with AKI were divided into two groups based on age: those under 18 years and those over 18 years. A comparative analysis was conducted between the mortality and morbidity rates of patients who underwent fasciotomy and those who did not. Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC), sepsis, and adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) have all been identified as contributors to morbidity. Results: The study was conducted with a total of 40 patients (21 males and 19 females) aged between four and 83 years. A total of 21 patients underwent fasciotomy and the patients underwent varying numbers of fasciotomy, ranging from zero to 11. The mortality rate was 12.5%, corresponding to five adult patients. No instances of mortality were reported in the paediatric cohort. The application of fasciotomy in instances of crush-induced AKI did not result in elevated levels of mortality in either the paediatric or adult demographic. Within the adult population, a substantial difference in the duration of dialysis was observed between individuals who underwent fasciotomy and those who did not. A statistically significant increase in the number of fasciotomy incisions was observed in patients diagnosed with sepsis compared with those without sepsis. The study found a significant positive correlation between the number of fasciotomy incisions and dialysis days. Conclusions: Neither adult nor paediatric patients with crush-induced AKI showed an increased risk of death after fasciotomy. The number of fasciotomy incisions significantly correlated with the development of sepsis. Despite experiencing delays in hospital admission for paediatric patients, the incidence of both crush syndrome and mortality rates among children remained relatively low.

The field of mitochondrial genomics has advanced rapidly and revolutionized disciplines from molecular anthropology, population genetics, to medical/oncogenetics. However, mtDNA next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis for matrilineal haplotyping and phylogeographic inference remains hindered by the lack of a consolidated, mitogenome database and efficient bioinformatics pipeline. To address this, we developed a customized human mitogenome database (hMITO DB) embedded in a CLC Genomics workflow for read mapping, variant analysis, haplotyping, and geo-mapping. The database was constructed from 4,286 mitogenomes. The macro-haplogroup (A to Z) distribution and representative phylogenetic tree were found consistent with published literature. The hMITO DB automated workflow was tested using mtDNA-NGS sequences derived from Pap smears and cervical cancer cell lines. The auto-generated read mapping, variants track, and table of haplotypes and geo-origins were completed in 15 min for 47 samples. The mtDNA workflow proved to be a rapid, efficient and accurate means of sequence analysis for translational mitogenomics.