Idiopathic acute pancreatitis (IAP) presents a diagnostic challenge and refers to cases where the cause of acute pancreatitis remains uncertain despite a comprehensive diagnostic evalua-tion. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has emerged as a valuable tool in the diagnostic workup of IAP. This review explores the pivotal role of EUS in detecting the actual cause of IAP, as-sessing its accuracy, timing, safety, and future technological improvement. Following PRISMA guidelines, 60 pertinent studies were selected and analysed. EUS emerges as a cru-cial diagnostic tool, particularly when conventional imaging fails. It can offer intricate visu-alization of the pancreas, biliary system, and adjacent structures. High accuracy of EUS is evident in detecting the actual causes of IAP such as microlithiasis, small bile duct stones, pancreas divisum, and small pancreatic tumors. Optimal timing for EUS is post-resolution of the acute phase of the disease. EUS, when conducted by experienced endoscopists, it boasts minimal safety concerns, and is crucial to prevent complications. EUS-guided interventions, including fine-needle aspiration, collection drainage, and biopsies, aid in cytological analy-sis. With high diagnostic accuracy, safety, and therapeutic potential, EUS is able to improve patient outcomes when managing IAP. Further refinement of EUS techniques and cost-effectiveness assessment of EUS-guided approaches need to be explored in multicenter prospective studies. This review underscores EUS as a transformative tool in unraveling IAP's enigma and advancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

We introduce a new generalized inverse (i.e., generalized EP element) which is a natural generalization of EP and *-DMP elements in a Banach *-algebra. We present polar-like characterizations of generalized EP elements. The necessary and sufficient conditions under which the sum of two generalized EP elements is a generalized EP element are investigated. Finally, the generalized core-EP orders for generalized EP elements are characterized.

Novel segmented tick-borne RNA viruses belonging to the group of Jingmenviruses (JMVs) are widespread across Africa, Asia, Europe, and America. In this work, we obtained whole-genome sequences of two Kindia tick virus (KITV) isolates and performed modeling and functional annotation of the secondary structure of 5’ and 3’ UTRs from JMV and KITV viruses. UTRs of various KITV segments are characterized by: (1) polyadenylated 3’ UTRs; (2) 5’ DAR and 3’ DAR motifs; (3) a highly conserved 5’-CACAG-3’ pentanucleotide; (4) a La protein binding site; (5) multiple UAG sites providing interactions with the MSI1 protein; (6) three homologous sequences in the 5’ UTR and 3’ UTR of segment 2; (7) the segment 2 3’ UTR of a KITV/2017/1 isolate comprises two consecutive 40 nucleotide repeats forming a Y-3 structure; (8) a 35-nucleotide deletion in the second repeat of the segment 2 3’ UTR of KITV/2018/1 and KITV/2018/2 isolates, leading to a modification of the Y-3 structure; (9) two pseudoknots in the segment 2 3’ UTR; (10) the 5’ UTR and 3’ UTR are represented by patterns of conserved motifs; (11) the 5’-CAAGUG-3’ sequence occurs in early UTR hairpins. Thus, we identified regulatory elements in the UTRs of KITV, which are characteristic of orthoflaviviruses. This suggests their functional significance for the replication of JMVs and the evolutionary similarity between orthoflaviviruses and segmented flavi-like viruses.

We extensively studied serigraphic screen-printed commercial silver flake inks loaded with silicon inclusions in order to achieve pinning at the grain boundaries. Based on grain size measurements using electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), commercial silver ink with silicon microparticle content of 5 wt.% shows a significant grain growth retardation compared to the pristine silver ink, which stabilizes electrical conductivity up to 700 ◦C via Zener pinning mechanism. The modified silicon-loaded silver ink experiences a two times increase in grain size when heated up to 700 ◦C, compared to a seven times increase for the pristine silver ink. In turn, this enables operation temperatures significantly higher than the conventional operational window of microparticle-based silver inks, which are usually limited to 400 ◦C. Using isothermal exposures of 10 minutes up to 4 hours this phenomenon is observed at temperatures ranging from 250 ◦C to 900 ◦C. The electrical conductivity stability, grain size evolution and oxide contents were studied up to 4 hours. The activation energy of silver ink with silicon inclusions is 54% lower than for the pristine silver ink due to pining effect, which retards grain growth via the Zener mechanism. Most importantly, the electrical resistivity becomes stable up to 700 ◦C, which is more than twice the operation limit for off-the-shelf screen-printable silver flake inks. Hence, we demonstrate that adding controlled amounts of silicon particles to silver inks towards grain structure engineering can open new vistas of possibilities for screen-printed metallic inks.

Candida auris is considered an emerging Candida species that has rapidly spread all over the world. The evidence of its origin and emerging resistance is still unclear. The severe infection by this species causes significant mortality and morbidity among the elderly and immune compressed individuals. Development of drug resistance is the major factor associated with therapeutic failure of existing antifungal agents. Previous studies addressed the antifungal resistance profile and drug discovery for C. auris. However, comprehensive coverage of these information in a single investigation yet to be available. In this review, we have mainly focused on recent development in therapeutic strategy against C. auris. Based on the available information, several differential approaches were discussed, including existing antifungal drugs, chemical compounds, essential oils, natural products, antifungal peptides, immunotherapy, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy, drug repurposing, and drug delivery systems. Among them, chemical medications, natural products, and antifungal peptides are the prime contributors. However, a limited number of resources are available to prove the efficiency of these potential therapies in clinical usage. Hence, we hope that the data gathered in this review can encourage in vivo studies and clinical trials.

The redshifted 21 cm line signal is a powerful probe of the cosmic dawn and the epoch of reionisation. The global spectrum can potentially be detected with a single antenna and spectrometer. However, this measurement requires an extremely accurate calibration of the instrument to facilitate the separation of the 21 cm signal from the much brighter foregrounds and possible variations in the instrument response. Understanding how the measurement errors propagate in a realistic instrument system and affect system calibration is the focus of this work. We simulate a 21 cm global spectrum observation based on the noise wave calibration scheme. We focus on how measurement errors in reflection coefficients affect the noise temperature, and how typical errors impact on the recovery of the 21 cm signal, especially in the frequency domain. Results show that for our example set up, a typical VNA measurement error in the magnitude of the reflection coefficients of the antenna, receiver, open cable which are 0.001, 0.001, 0.002 (linear) respectively would result in a 200 mK deviation on the detected signal, and a typical measurement error of 0.48∘, 0.78∘, 0.15∘ in the respective phases would cause a 40 mK deviation. The VNA measurement error can greatly affect the result of a 21 cm global spectrum experiment using this calibration technique, and such a feature could be mistaken for or be combined with the 21 cm signal.

This study investigated the anatomical characteristics and pulp quality of tapped Styrax sumatrana wood to facilitate its further utilization. The transverse surface of the tapped S. sumatrana was light or greyish brown in the sapwood and reddish brown in the heartwood. The resin canals of the tapped wood were formed along the growth rings at the boundaries between the heartwood and sapwood. Furthermore, microscopic analyses revealed an irregular outline and rounded epithelial cells at the edges of the intercellular traumatic resin canal (TC). Approximately 8–16 epithelial cells surrounded the resin canals. The fibers in the tapped S. sumatrana were generally thin-walled, whereas those near the TC were thick-walled. Moreover, S. sumatrana were diffuse-porous and exhibited intermediately distinct or indistinct growth ring boundaries. The vessels were mainly in radial multiples and clusters of 3–5. In addition, they showed a diagonal-to-radial pattern arrangement and a few tangential bands. Deposits were observed in some vessels in the tapped part but were absent in the untapped part. The fiber length of the tapped S. sumatrana wood was classified as moderate to extensive and categorized as 2nd grade pulp quality. Finally, the cell walls were classified as thin to moderate.

The utilization of foam in contact with individuals often leads to its deterioration, necessitating periodic material changes to prevent degradation and maintain sanitary conditions. Foam, a porous plastic material formed by an aggregation of bubbles, offers lightweight and impact-absorbing properties, yet its porosity and susceptibility to wear pose challenges. The project's overarching goal is to develop a technological application for repurposing spent foam materials and textile elements from leisure facilities into impact absorption systems. This initiative aims to minimize environmental impact by reusing materials and leveraging their technical characteristics, including those of polyurethanes and textiles. By addressing the challenge of foam deterioration, the project seeks to create sustainable solutions. The development of impact absorption systems will involve the utilization of spent foam, either by reintegrating it into the system after its initial use or combining it with waste textiles. This innovative approach not only promotes sustainability but also enhances safety by ensuring the availability of high-quality impact-resistant elements. Through this endeavor, the project aims to contribute to both environmental conservation and the advancement of effective anti-impact measures in leisure facilities.

This paper focuses on distributed generation (DG) controller of a PV based Micro Grid. An independent DG controller (IDGC) is designed for PV applications to improve maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in Micro Grid (MG). Extreme learning machine (ELM) based MPPT method exactly estimate the reference input of converter control. They are voltage and current at MPP. Feedback controls employ linear PI schemes or nonlinear, intricate techniques. Here the converter controller, IDGC is improved by measuring directly converter outputs like duty cycle. PWM index in a single DG PV-based MG. It introduces a fast learning Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) using Moore-Penrose pseudo-inverse and an online-sequential ridge re method for robust CR estimation. The approach ensures the stability of the microgrid during PV uncertainties. Internal DG control approach (IDGC) improves the strength of the Micro Grid during, three-phase faults at load bus, partial shading, irradiance change, islanding operation and load change. The model is designed and simulated in MATLAB/SIMULINK platform and some of the results are validated in hardware in simulation (HIL) platform.

Abstract: Circumcision is a long-standing and frequently performed surgical procedure which holds significant cultural significance among AmaXhosa people in South Africa. Due to cultural reasons in some parts of Africa, the integration of medical male circumcision with traditional manhood initiation rituals still lacks acceptance. This study examined the level of knowledge and acceptance of voluntary male medical circumcision (VMMC) among young males in a selected high school in the Nyandeni District of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. A descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted, and a self-administered questionnaire was used to obtain information on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of VMMC, percep-tions of VMMC, and circumcision practices. One Hundred participants were recruited from both grades 11 and 12, and 82% of the participants indicated that they had received information about VMMC. Most of the respondents (88%) preferred traditional male circumcision (TMC) and only 12% of respondents preferred VMMC. The participants displayed a good understanding of the distinction between VMMC and TMC. However, results from the study showed that most re-spondents exhibited low acceptability towards VMMC. These findings highlight the need to develop evidence-based strategies to enhance learners’ knowledge and acceptance of VMMC.

Geopolymer concrete (GPC) represents an innovative green and low-carbon construction material, offering a viable alternative to ordinary Portland cement concrete in building applications. However, existing studies tend to overlook the recyclability aspect of GPC for future use. Various structural applications necessitate the use of concrete with distinct strength characteristics. The recyclability of the parent concrete is influenced by these varying strengths. This study examined the recycling potential of GPC across a spectrum of strength grades (40, 60, 80 and 100 MPa, marked as C40, C60, C80 and C100) when subjected to freeze-thaw conditions. The cementitious material comprised 60% metakaolin and 40% slag, with natural gravel serving as the coarse aggregate, and the alkali activator consisting of sodium hydroxide solution and sodium silicate solution. The strength of the GPC was modulated by altering the Na/Al ratio. After 350 freeze-thaw cycles, the GPC specimens underwent crushing, washing, and sieving to produce recycled geopolymer aggregates (RGAs). Subsequently, their physical properties and microstructure were thoroughly examined. The findings indicated that GPC with strength grades of C100, C80, and C60 were capable of enduring 350 freeze-thaw cycles, in contrast to C40, which did not withstand these conditions. RGAs derived from GPC of strength grades C100 and C80 complied with the criteria for Class II recycled aggregates, whereas RGAs produced from GPC of strength grade C60 aligned with the Class III level. A higher strength grade in the parent concrete correlated with enhanced performance characteristics in the resulting recycled aggregates.

The theory of heavy ion double charge exchange (DCE) reactions proceeding by effective rank–2 isotensor interactions is presented. Virtual pion–nucleon charge exchange interactions are investigated as the source for induced isotensor interactions, giving rise to the Majorana DCE (MDCE) reaction mechanism. MDCE is of a generic character, proceeding through pairs of complementary (π±,π∓) reactions in the projectile and target nucleus. The dynamics of the elementary processes is discussed where the excitation of pion–nucleon resonances are of central importance. Investigations of initial and final state ion–ion interactions show that these effects are acting as vertex renormalizations. In closure approximation, well justified by the finite pion mass, the second order transition matrix elements reduce to pion potentials and effective two–body isotensor DCE interactions, giving rise also to two–body correlations in either of the participating nuclei. Connections to neutrinoless Majorana double beta decay (MDBD) are elucidated at various levels of dynamics, from the underlying fundamental electro–weak and QCD scales to the physical scales of nuclear MDBD and MDCE physics. It is pointed out that heavy ion MDCE reactions may also proceed by competing electro–weak charge exchange processes, leading to lepton MDCE by electrons, positrons, and neutrinos.

Two strongly curved areas of the Carpathians in Romania are earthquake-prone: Vrancea - in the South-Eastern Carpathians, and Danubian – in the western edge of the Southern Carpathians. By far the highest seismicity episode in 2023 was recorded in the Southern Carpathians, near Targu Jiu city, of more than 4000 earthquakes. A first ML 5.2 mainshock was recorded on 13 February, followed by a second one, ML 5.7, on 14 February. Our purpose is to provide a first analysis of this sequence in order to explain its extent and unusual development, in time. The possible role of fluids in the middle crust, is discussed in connection with the rather unusual character of the space-time distribution of aftershocks. A large and high-quality dataset is provided by the dense array of seismic stations which has been gradually improved by adding new stations in the epicentral area. The thorough revision of the phase picking and location reveals a few interesting and intriguing features of seismicity that still remain worthy to be further investigated. The database built within this paper provides excellent information not only for Targu Jiu area, but for any other investigation in intra-continental regions characterized by diffuse and sporadic seismic activity.

Paramedics are increasingly being subjected to violence, creating the potential for significant physical and psychological harm. Where a patient has a history of violent behavior, hazard flags - applied either to the individual, their residential address, or phone number - can alert paramedics to the possibility of violence, potentially reducing the risk of injury. Leveraging a novel violence reporting process embedded in the electronic patient care record, we reviewed violence reports filed over a thirteen-month period since its inception in February 2021to assess the effectiveness of hazard flagging as a potential risk mitigation strategy. Upon reviewing a report, paramedic-supervisors can generate a hazard flag if recurrent violent behavior from the patient is anticipated. In all, 502 violence reports were filed, for which paramedic-supervisors generated hazard flags in 20% of cases (n=99). In general, cases were not flagged either because the incident occurred at a location not amenable to flagging, or because the supervisors felt that a hazard flag was not warranted based on the details in the report. Hazard flagging was associated with an increased risk of violence during subsequent paramedic attendance (Odds Ratio [OR] 6.21, p

Ependymoma is responsible for 8–10% of all pediatric brain tumors and constitutes the third most common brain tumor in children. No robust molecular markers are yet in routine clinical use. Surgical resection and adjuvant radiotherapy cure approximately 40-70% of pediatric patients with ependymoma. In our centre, we have been using prophylactic valproic acid treatment for brain tumor patients. Initial observations indicated that valproate could have a beneficial effect in the survival of patients. Recent observations by other authors have shown that patients with glioblastoma benefited from the treatment with valproic acid, a histone deacetylase inhibitor. We have used random survival forest, a novel ensemble survival modelling method to study a single- center, small number cohort of pediatric patients with ependymoma. This analysis has confirmed surgery resection extent and treatment with radiotherapy as independent predictors of overall survival. Treatment with valproic acid was also a predictor of higher survival in this cohort. These results highlight the potential usefullness of the random survival forest model in gathering information from retrospective data. More data is needed about the possible influence of histone deacetylase inhibition by valproic acid in the survival of patients with ependymoma.

Embryonic development proceeds through a series of differentiation events. The mosaic version of this process (binary cell divisions) can be analyzed by comparing early development of Ciona intestinalis and Caenorhabditis elegans. To do this, we reorganize lineage trees into differentiation trees using the graph theory ordering of relative cell volume. Lineage and differentiation trees provide us with means to classify each cell using binary codes. Extracting data characterizing lineage tree position, cell volume, and nucleus position for each cell during early embryogenesis, we conduct several statistical analyses, both within and between taxa. We compare both cell volume distributions and cell volume across developmental time within and between single species and assess differences between lineage tree and differentiation tree orderings. This enhances our understanding of the differentiation events in a model of pure mosaic embryogenesis and its relationship to evolutionary conservation. We also contribute several new techniques for assessing both differences between lineage trees and differentiation trees, and differences between differentiation trees of different species. The results suggest that at the level of differentiation trees, there are broad similarities between distantly related mosaic embryos that might be essential to understanding evolutionary change and phylogeny reconstruction. Differentiation trees may therefore provide a basis for an Evo-Devo Postmodern Synthesis.

Binary mixtures of surfactants build a binary mixed micelle in which the ratio of surfactants usually differs from the initial ratio of surfactants in their binary mixture. The thermodynamic stabilization of the binary mixed micellar pseudophase about the hypothetical ideal state (intermolecular interactions between the different particles and the conformational states of the particles are identical to those of monocomponent states) is described by the molar excess Gibbs free energy (gE). The dependence of gE on the molar fraction of surfactant i (xi) from the binary mixed micelle can be described by a symmetric function (symmetry is described to the line parallel to the y-axis and passes through xi = 0.5) or by an asymmetric function. Theoretical analysis (canonical partition function, conformational analysis) examines how the presence of different polar functional groups, some of which are sterically shielded from the steroid skeleton of bile salt (surfactant), affect the symmetry of the function gE of the binary mixed micelle of the cholic acid anion (bile salt) and classical cationic surfactant (hydrophobic tail and polar head). Suppose the steroid skeleton of the bile salt contains non-sterically shielded polar groups (or the temperature is relatively high). In that case, gE is a symmetric function. At the same time, if the steroid skeleton also contains sterically shielded polar groups, then the gE function is asymmetric.

The study investigates the effect of corporate governance characteristics on the financial performance of 124 Indian-listed companies that have undergone mergers and acquisitions during 2014–2020. It employs several performance measures, such as short-term capital market performance, long-term capital market performance, accounting-based and market-based measures, and firm-level control factors. The study found board size to be a positive and significant factor affecting short-term market performance. Further, it also documents weak linkages with other corporate governance variables like board independence, CEO duality, etc. Regarding control variables, leverage, the company's age, price-to-book ratio, and research and development expenses significantly impact the acquiring companies' financial returns. The study's findings add to our understanding of corporate governance's impact on performance in cases such as mergers and acquisitions.

Methane fermentation of organic waste is one way to minimize organic waste, which accounts for 77% of the global municipal waste stream. The use of biowaste treatment technologies helps to improve the energy independence of the regions. Improving the efficiency of the methane fermentation process by using additives from waste may be an attractive alternative to the original technology. The use of biochar as an additive for methane fermentation has been shown to increase the production potential of biogas. The reasons for the improvement in efficiency are complex among others, it is assumed that the specific surface area of ​​biochar may increase the population of anaerobic organisms. Up to date, there are many researches on the effect of biochar additions on methane fermentation, but there is no research on the effect of sulfur-biochar composite. The composite product in the form of a mixture of biochar and molten sulfur is an interesting area of ​​research. In this experiment additions of the sulfur-biochar composite were tested to improve the fermentation process. The composite consisted of 40% biochar and 60% of sulfur and was added to the process. As results the addition of 1% of the composite increased the biogas potential by 4%.

An array of diverse processes and factors have been linked to the pathoetiology and pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease (PD), including systemic CNS factors. This article reviews some of the many processes and factors linked to the emergence and progression of PD that culminates in the loss of substantia nigra pars compacts (SNpc) in PD patients. It is proposed that SNpc astrocytes may be a key hub, with numerous systemic and CNS factors acting to suppress the astrocyte tryptophan-melatonin pathway, leading to a loss of astrocyte melatonin and lactate for SNpc dopamine neurons. Consequently, dopamine neurons show an increase in α-synuclein, oxidative stress and suboptimal mitochondrial function, partly due to the loss of melatonin induced PTEN-associated kinase (PINK)1/parkin and mitophagy. This leads to an increase in the major histocompatibility (MHC)-1 and the chemoattraction of CD8+ T cells that destroy SNpc dopamine neurons in an ‘autoimmune’/’immune-mediated’ manner. The upstream processes driving the end-point ‘chaos’ of SNpc dopamine neuron loss are proposed to be driven by the suppression of night-time pineal melatonin, gut microbiome derived butyrate and possibly bcl2-associated athanogene (BAG)-1, which all act to suppress the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) translocation to the nucleus in all systemic and CNS cells, thereby potentiating the effects of the rising levels of cortisol over the night and accelerated rise in the course of the cortisol awakening response (CAR). The potentiation of cortisol effects at the GR has consequences for the homeostatic regulation of the diverse array of systemic and CNS microenvironments, as well as a distinct regulation of different immune and glia cells. The morning CAR is classically proposed to ‘prepare the body for the coming day’. However, the differential regulation of the GR over the circadian rhythm at night would indicate that such preparation for the coming day may be powerfully determined by night-time factors and processes. The article integrates this systemic, night-time pathoetiology with the ‘immune-mediated’ processes that ultimately drive SNpc dopamine neuron loss. This has a number of novel future research and treatment implications.

For a number of years heritage resources have suffered the negative effects of tourist pressure. Overtourism has been generating a wide-ranging debate on this issue. This work focuses on the strategies and measures adopted to address overtourism during the last 30 years in heritage attractions, which are much less studied than urban heritage centres. Specifically, it analyses measures relating to the management of site capacities, based on the concept of tourist carrying capacity, using the content analysis as a methodology. We have used the Alhambra in Granada as a case study, as one of the most visited Spanish World Heritage Sites. The results obtained reflect a strong consensus on the need to introduce measures to restrict tourist activity, although these measures imply a great effort in terms of management and tend to be taken advantage of by some stakeholders for their own benefit. The extensive time frame of the measures adopted allows us to reflect on the possibilities and limitations of dealing with overtourism by using capacity management strategies, and to extract useful conclusions for other heritage sites with similar problems.

Since the second half of the second millennium AD, water management among the Chagga people of Kilimanjaro in Tanzania has involved community collaboration in the construction, ownership and management of water infrastructure. Chagga settlement on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro transformed the landscape significantly to reflect an agrarian society characterised by decentralised forms of socio-political and economic organisation. Such organization involved conception, construction, and post-construction management of water distribution systems, constituting high-level socio-political complexity. The study employs ethnography, archaeological surveys and GIS to document water infrastructures on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro. We conclude that community collaboration was key in management of the water infrastructure and by extension, agriculture, which sustained Chagga and chiefdoms for centuries.

We investigated the response of the Manila clam Venerupis philippinarum to possible temperature and salinity changes in a holding facility. First, clams were exposed to four temperatures for 15 days. Valve closure and survival of clams exposed to seawater at 18℃ were higher than that of those exposed to seawater at 24℃. Second, clams were exposed to six salinities for 15 days. Survival of clams exposed to two salinity fluctuation conditions (24–30 and 27–24 psu) was lower than that of clams exposed to constant 30 psu conditions. Valve closures of clams exposed to constant low salinity conditions (24 psu) and two salinity fluctuation conditions (24–30 and 27–24 psu) were higher than of those exposed to constant 30 psu conditions. Lastly, clams were exposed to two different temperatures and three different salinities conditions for 8 days. Valve closure and survival decreased significantly under the combination of 24℃ and 18 psu. These results suggest that an increase in temperature or a wider range of salinity fluctuations are detrimental to the survival of the Manila clam. The synergistic effect of temperature and salinity stressors may decrease the survival period of clams compared to the effect of a single stressor.

Homogeneous water dispersions of MWCNTs were prepared by ultrasonication in the presence of an amphiphilic polystyrene-block-poly(acrylic acid) (PS-b-PAA) copolymer. The ability of PS-b-PAA to disperse and stabilize MWCTNs was investigated by UV-vis, SEM and zeta potential. It is shown that the copolymer can disperse nanotubes directly by sonication in water. The results show that the addition of a styrene block to PAA enhances the dispersion efficiency compared to pure PAA, possibly due to the nanotube affinity with the polystyrene moiety. Notably, the dispersions show an evident pH-responsive behavior, being MWCNTs reaggregation promoted in basic environment. Furthermore, composites obtained by drop casting display electrical conductivity responsive to pH variations, showing the potential of such materials for sensing applications.

Models of quantum measurements are presented, including observers subject to the laws of quantum mechanics. Observers perform multiple measurements in an attempt to disprove the collapse hypothesis. It is shown that under reasonable assumptions the effort cannot succeed. Under a unitary evolution the end state is a correlation between the result of the first measurement and the result(s) of the others, consistent with the observer's collapse hypothesis. The observer may conclude that the laws of nature include a non-unitary collapse mechanism, even if one does not actually exist. Discard of information is the crucial factor which distinguishes entanglement from measurement.

Recent literature has seen a rapid expansion in the reference to front-end forensics as an indication of the untapped value of forensic science. While some of these contributions have centered on development of forensic intelligence from a single area of investigation, others call for a more fundamental change in the relationship between crime laboratories and policing, particularly relating early laboratory analysis with big datasets to provide leads to investigators. We highlight several recently implemented tactical strategies of crime laboratories that contribute to the body of forensic intelligence. Beyond the scientific gains from these tactical applications, the corresponding details on associated efficiencies, costs, time savings, and quality improvements offer insights towards patterns of success for the community of crime laboratories. Further details expand an interpretation of what constitutes success with an eye on the contributions of the crime laboratory towards public health, safety, and protection of the innocent in addition to societal gains from conviction of the guilty. The economic interpretation of the value provided by the forensic laboratory assists in the cost-benefit review of strategic and tactical decisions and supports the justification for laboratory public funding with measures of the return on investment from public support of the forensic laboratory

Modern gastroenterology, which occupies the pages of scientific journals without alternative, began as an initiative of manufacturers of diagnostic equipment. For widespread advertising, they selected practical doctors who were not familiar with the methodology of science and superficial knowledge of physiology. This is how a group led by DeMeester arose, which in 1976 published the DeMeester score, i.e., the normal limit for esophageal pH monitoring. pH <4, less than 4% of the time per day was considered normal, i.e., it was unreasonably claimed that such reflux is physiological. This article proves that this study was carried out with numerous methodological errors, which led to an erroneous conclusion. For a long time, pH monitoring was considered the gold standard and with its help hypotheses were proposed that form the basis of modern gastroenterology. The article proves the fallacy of 13 hypotheses, which are presented as theories. Numerous articles using pH monitoring have publicized this method. Practitioners became "great scientists", equipment manufacturers became successful businessmen. Over time, they found other groups of practitioners to promote devices for impedance ph monitoring, high-resolution manometry, and many others. At the same time, a network of reviewers who believe in the infallibility of the luminaries do not allow studies that contradict their faith to be published. Thus, fundamental science was destroyed, which alone could assess the harm of false research both for science and for patients. Conclusion This study provides a list of hypotheses, that were previously considered theories, but since scientific evidence has proven these assumptions to be false, they should be excluded from subsequent use and citation.

Nowadays the freedom to make choices is considered of vital importance for decision-makers. Researchers investigating the psychological effects of choice provided empirical evidence about the many advantages of choice (i.e., increased intrinsic motivation, greater perception of self-determination, better performance, and greater life satisfaction). However, more recent studies demonstrated the downsides of choice. When the decision task difficulty exceeds the natural cognitive resources of human mind, the possibility to choose becomes more a source of unhappiness and dissatisfaction than an opportunity for a greater well-being. We here discuss in a detailed fashion the main findings of research in psychology and consumer behavior showing the bright sides and the downsides of choice.

Planck's constant plays an important role in quantum mechanics but has little physical meaning apart from its contribution to the formulas. Evaluating each of the constant's unit dimensions gives a more granular account of the physical phenomena described by the equations. These formulas show how classical and quantum mechanical equations are related, and they give consistent descriptions of phenomena like momentum and energy in classical and quantum systems.

Centromeres, the chromosomal loci where spindle fibers attach during cell division to segregate chromosomes, are typically found within satellite arrays in plants and animals. Satellite arrays have been difficult to analyze because they comprise megabases of tandem head-to-tail highly repeated DNA sequences. Much evidence suggests that centromeres are epigenetically defined by the location of nucleosomes containing the centromere-specific histone H3 variant cenH3, independently of the DNA sequences where they are located; however, the reason that cenH3 nucleosomes are generally found on rapidly evolving satellite arrays has remained unclear. Recently, long read sequencing technology has clarified the structures of satellite arrays and sparked rethinking of how they evolve, while new experiments and analyses have helped bring both understanding and further speculation about the role these highly repeated sequences play in centromere identification.

Any photon, regardless of its origin, carries the same optical field profile. This feature and the quantum Rayleigh emissions generate temporally discrete groups of several photons in a resonant cavity incorporating one single quantum dot. A periodic stream of single photons is distorted by high-finesse optical cavities and the quantum Rayleigh spontaneous emission in a beam splitter. Groups of photons emerge from interferometric filters because of multiple internal reflections.

60\% of the global population is expected to be in cities by 2050. At the same time the climate is changing at an accelerated rate. In this short paper we discuss the conflation of these two phenomena and how it may change the cities of the future. We formulate this as an optimization problem that could help answer important questions such as where are they likely to be located? How are they to be powered? What would be their demand for mobility and how might this be met? How over or under ground might these cities be? This paper first looks at a historical paradigm of cities in the absence of the climate crisis and then proposes the new paradigm to look at cities of the future faced by the challenge of the climate change crisis.

. 1) Background: Intersectionality contests that individuals have multiple characteristics in their identity that cannot be siloed or deemed exclusive to each other. Understanding and utilising an intersectional lens in organisations can increase inclusion of individuals and organisational performance. An educational package known as the Intersectionality Walk (IW) was developed by the authors, piloted, and evaluated in order to break down the commonly held descriptors of diversity silos that fragments inclusion, and to understand how various identity characteristics compound disadvantage. The paper outlines the need to transition from siloed views of diversity to a more intrinsic view of identity to achieve inclusivity. 2) Methods: The IW was developed and trialled with a series of work-based scenarios and realistic multifaceted personas. Data collection occurred pre- and post- IW utilising a mixed methods approach. Responses to Likert scale surveys and open-ended questions were captured and analysed via inductive and ground theory perspectives. 3) Results: An improved awareness and understanding of individual knowledge, reflectivity and positionality relating to intersectionality and intersectional approaches was reported on completion of the IW. Further, responses reported how and why organisations can approach and improve inclusivity via using intersectional approaches. 4) Conclusions: The IW as an educational package has a positive impact and is a key linkage for all employers to build an inclusive culture and to harness the talent of all employees. Further research will occur to measure the implemented change in organisations following the IW.

The phylogeny of Neoaves, the largest clade of extant birds, has remained unclear despite intense study. The difficulty associated with resolving the early branches in Neoaves is likely driven by the rapid radiation of this group. However, conflicts among studies may be exacerbated by the hypothesis that relationships are sensitive to the data type analyzed. For example, analyses of coding exons typically yield trees that place Strisores (nightjars and allies) sister to the remaining Neoaves, while analyses of non-coding data typically yield trees where Mirandornites (flamingos and grebes) is the sister of the remaining Neoaves. Our understanding of data type effects is hampered by the fact that previous analyses have used different taxa, loci, and types of non-coding data. Herein, we provide strong corroboration of the data type effects hypothesis for Neoaves by comparing trees based on coding and non-coding data derived from the same taxa and gene regions. A simple analytical method known to minimize biases due to base composition (coding nucleotides as purines and pyrimidines) resulted in coding exon data with increased congruence to the non-coding topology using concatenated analyses. These results improve our understanding of the resolution of neoavian phylogeny and point to a challenge - data type effects - that is likely to be an important factor in phylogenetic analyses of birds (and many other taxonomic groups). Using our results, we provide a summary phylogeny that identifies well-corroborated relationships and highlights specific nodes where future efforts should focus.

A variant of the von Neumann-Wigner Interpretation is proposed. It does not make use of the familiar language of wave functionsand observers. Instead it pictures the state of the physical world as a vector in a Fock space and, therefore not, literally, a functionof any spacetime coordinates. And, rather than segregating consciousness into individual points of view (each carrying with it asense of its proper time), this model proposes only unitary states of consciousness, Q(t), where t represents a fiducial time withrespect to which both the state of the physical world and the state of consciousness evolve. States in our world's Fock space areclassified as either 'admissible' (meaning they correspond to definite states of consciousness) or 'inadmissible' (meaning they donot). The evolution of the state vector of the world is such as to always keep it restricted to 'admissible' states. Consciousness istreated very much like what Chalmers calls an "M-Property." But we try to show that problems with the quantum Zeno effect do not arise from this model.

Fundamental principles of classical (Newtonian) physics are employed to probe the cosmological lambda Λ; it yields the values ρ_vac = 2.61 x 10^-39 g cm^-3 and Λ = 4.87 x 10^-66 cm^-2. It is revealed that Λ is a fundamental physical constant defined by vacuum density-light speed ρ_vacc² correlation. However, the constant accelerates along the groups and periods of a universal spatial periodicity equivalent to the chemical periodicity. Previous results are cited to show that chemical elements are quantum harmonic (periodic) oscillators QHOs and their waveform oscillations exclusively define the vacuum field. The cosmological periodic unit CPU is introduced, it relies on the cosmological principle to argue that a relative physical quantity evaluated for the QHO applies to constituents of corresponding cosmological spatial quanta. Compelling evidences, backed with relevant data and quantitative expressions, are then presented to argue that: there was never a big bang, it is a Linde-universe sans “chaotic”; nature posts no singularity; mass does not curve spacetime, neither does metric space curvature trace directly to gravitation nor particle creation, gravity is classical, not quantum; reality is quadri-phasic not mono-phasic with a clear distinction between the atomic waveform defined with absolute atomic mass and condensed matter defined with relative atomic mass; every chemical element exists in three particle-generations thus, dark matter is invisible form (conjugate) of the visible element, its waveform manifests dark energy, it is not implicated in metric space expansion; Planck scale does not exist, radioactivity constrains fundamental length to atomic radius of the heaviest element.

In this paper, the authors seek to discuss some of the complexities involved in cross-cultural working in relation to the communication and management of pain in older people. Specifically, the paper addresses the culture construction of ageing and how pain is often constructed as a natural part of ageing. The authors also suggests that with the rise of the ideology of active-ageing many older people who are disabled or living in chronic pain, may feel a moral imperative to hide pain and ill-health. The discussion extends into looking at the impact of culture and the communication of pain, including specific idioms of distress, somaticize and the lay-management of pain through stoicism.

Since the 1990s, the understanding of how and where politics is made has changed radically. Scholars such as Ulrich Beck and Maria Bakardjieva have discussed how political agency is enacted outside of conventional party organizations, and political struggles increasingly focus on single issues. Over the past two decades, this transformation of politics has become common knowledge, not only in academic research but also in the general political discourse. Recently, the proliferation of digital activism and the political use of social media is often understood to enforce these tendencies. This article analyzes the Pirate Party in relation to these theories, relying on almost 30 interviews with active Pirate Party members in Sweden, the UK, Germany, the USA, and Australia. The Pirate Party was initially formed in 2006, focusing on copyright, piracy, and digital privacy. Over the years, it has developed into a more general democracy movement, with an interest in a wider range of issues. This article analyses how the party’s initial focus on information politics and social media connects to a wider range of political issues and to other social movements, such as Arab Spring protests and Occupy Wall Street. Finally, it discusses how this challenges the understanding of information politics as a single issue agenda.

In this paper, we aim to assess the electric current parameters and report the analysis of the associated degree of ventricular recovery during left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support. An assumption was made there is a linear relationship between ventricular recovery degree and the pump electric current pulsatility index (PI). The experimental study was carried out using the ViVitro Pulse Duplicator System with Sputnik 1 LVAD connected. Cardiac output (CO) and cardiac power output (CPO) were used as a measure of ventricular recovery degree. Different heart rates (HR) (59, 73, 86 bpm) and pump speeds (7600–8400 rpm in 200 rpm steps) were investigated. Ventricular stroke volumes in the range of 30–80 ml for each heart rate at certain pump speed were used. The obtained relationships of CO and CPO vs. PI was linear as the coefficients of determination for each regression curve were more than 0.8. CO vs. PI: R2=0.9218; 0.9271; 0.9172 and CPO vs. PI: R2=0.8517; 0.841; 0.8244 for HR=59 bpm; 73 bpm; 86 bpm, respectively. Study findings suggest that adequate interpretation of parameters could potentially serve as a valuable clinical tool to assess ventricular recovery based on LVAD infrastructure without requiring any special hemodynamic assessment.

Soil is a crucial component for plant growth, as it provides water, nutrients, and mechanical support. Various factors, such as crop cultivation, microflora, nutrient addition, and water availability, significantly affect soil properties. Maintaining soil health is important, and one approach is the introduction of native organisms with multifaceted activities. In this study, the effects of four native microbes (Trichoderma asperellum strain TAIK 1, Bacillus cabrialesii strain BIK3, Pseudomonas putida strain PIK1, and Pseudomonas otitidis strain POPS1) and their consortia on soil health, plant growth, and the incidence of stem rot disease caused by Sclerotium oryzae in rice are evaluated. Upon bioagent treatment of soil through seed treatment or soil application, variations in chemical properties of the soil were observed, viz., pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Organic Carbon (OC), available Soil Nitrogen (SN), Soil Phosphorus (SP), Soil Potassium (SK), and soil enzymes (urease, acid and alkaline phosphatase, dehydrogenase), compared to untreated soils. The treated seeds with the consortia of four native bioagents resulted in a significant increase in plant height (39.16%), number of panicles (30.29%), and average grain yield (41.36%) over control plants. Under controlled conditions, the bioagents-treated plants showed a 69.37% reduction in stem rot disease. The findings of this study indicate a positive correlation between soil properties and plant growth as well as a highly negative association with stem rot disease severity. The results suggest that using native bioagents as a management strategy can control stem rot disease and enhance crop productivity while reducing reliance on chemical interventions. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of sustainable agricultural practices that promote soil health, plant growth, and disease management.

This research provides an in-depth analysis of drought impacts in West Pokot, Kenya, utilizing both remote sensing surveys and focus group discussions. The study commenced by assessing the impact of drought on vegetation health via spatial sensors. It then utilized surveys and focus group discussions (FGDs) to engage farmers from the most drought-affected areas in Kacheliba and Sigor sub-counties. The analysis of remote sensing data from 1990 to 2022 highlighted that Sigor and Kacheliba experienced significant drought events during the years 1995, 2000, 2002, 2005, and 2009, and 1991, 1995, 2000, 2005, and 2019, respectively. This study delves into both the meteorological and socio-economic effects on local communities. Using the Multinomial Logistic Regression (MLR) model with the glm function, the research uncovered the impacts of so-cio-economic factors and agricultural practices on household livestock production. Additionally, the study employed Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) to explore the dynamics between livestock production, community resilience, and crop production. The findings underscore the urgent need for tailored interventions to enhance community resilience in the face of increasing climatic extremes, serving as a blueprint for similar arid and semi-arid regions worldwide.

This research investigates fiber-reinforced cementitious composites, with a particular emphasis on the geometric properties of soft micro and macro fibers. These fibers are characterized by a lower elastic modulus and larger aspect ratios than steel fibers. The composites were manufactured using a cement-to-sand ratio of 1:2.5, with 20% fly ash serving as a partial substitute. In order to attain varying strengths, two water-to-binder ratios (0.55 and 0.60) were implemented. Synthetic fibers, such as carbon and polypropylene, and natural sisal fibers, were introduced in volumes varying from 0.4% to 2.27%, with aspect ratios ranging from 71 to 3750. The flexural strength and behavior were evaluated using 75x75x380 mm prisms, while the compressive strength was measured using 50 mm cubes. Load-deflection curves were developed to investigate fracture behavior. The behavior of specimens reinforced with fibers post-cracking is dependent upon the matrix compressive strength, fiber type, quantity, and aspect ratio. A regression analysis was conducted on data from this study and previous publications to develop an equation that predicts the ratio of modulus of rupture (MOR) to initial fracture strength. The variables are matrix strength and fiber characteristics. The results reveal that carbon fiber-reinforced composites (CFRCCs) exhibit considerable brittleness post-cracking, despite exhibiting a flexural strength that is two to three times greater than that of control specimens. When workability is not compromised, the maximal load capacity and deflection are improved by increasing the fiber volume and aspect ratio. The maximal load stress is more significantly influenced by volumes of fibers than by aspect ratio.

The implementation of sustainable practices, such as the use of renewable sources and efficient technologies, is crucial for reducing climate change. Energy efficiency is highly important on a global scale due to its relationship with climate change, aiming to minimize environmental impact. In Spain, renewable energy policies have increased self-sufficiency and reduced the use of fossil fuels. Optimizing energy consumption in residences, buildings, and industries is essential for improving efficiency. This was taken into consideration for conducting this study, focusing on the residential sector. The desire to understand the level of energy efficiency in Extremadura drove this project, which focuses on collecting and analyzing data on a set of homes located in the au-tonomous community of Extremadura, with the purpose of evaluating their energy efficiency. To achieve this, a computer tool will be employed to provide a detailed view of the different levels of energy efficiency present in the community. In addition to data collection and analysis, research will be conducted to identify areas for improvement. This will allow proposing a series of specific measures that users can implement to optimize energy efficiency in their homes, adapting them to the particular characteristics of each residence.

The increasing expansion of the use of renewable distributed generation (RDG) technologies in electrical networks such as solar plants or wind farms and others has changed the nature of the distributed system and transformed it from the traditional system into an efficient system. This system has led to various technical effects in the host networks, with regard to voltage, electrical energy losses, fault levels, stability and electrical energy quality. These effects are not generic to any network; It can be positive, negative or neutral depending on the structure of the studied network, its operational condition and the various technology of the distributed generators. This research aims to quantitatively correct the effects of (RDG) in terms of voltage and electrical energy losses in the host networks. , since efficient distribution systems contain generators of a special nature and often contain bidirectional flux energy, it was necessary to construct a mathematical model of the distribution system hosting RDG units, which is fundamentally different from the traditional model of defining the reference electrical distribution bus bar. In order to achieve the systematic analysis, evaluation criteria and indicators were determined and mathematical formulas for them were completed. Based on the accomplished mathematical basis, an algorithm designed in such a way that it can be applied to any multi-voltage distribution system and to different distributed regenerative generation techniques is proposed. To demonstrate the algorithm's capabilities, it was tested on typical distribution networks using Factory Power DigSilent software, which is somewhat similar to MATLAB but more suitable for large capacity systems.

An investigation studied the impact of various solid waste types on Helianthus plant growth, encompassing both Helianthus annuus and Helianthus giant. Common sunflowers (Helianthus) were cultivated to assess the influence of soil substrates with differing compositions and solid waste concentrations on plant growth and morphology. Materials included fireplace ash, oil burner dust, forge dust, land of Milos (pozzolan), and land of Milos mixed with olive core. The aim was to determine if Helianthus could remediate soil contaminated by these wastes. Results re-vealed plant growth relied on substrate quality and quantity. High concentrations of fireplace ash and oil burner dust were detrimental, while forge dust, land of Milos, and olive core combinations supported satisfactory growth and improved resistance. Generally, Helianthus annuus outper-formed Helianthus giant. These findings highlight Helianthus' potential for soil restoration and decontamination under specific substrate conditions concerning solid waste type and concentration.

Cs2NaInCl6 double perovskites, which have excellent photoelectric conversion properties and are non-toxic and lead-free, have recently attracted much attention. In particular, double perovskite quantum dots (QDs) are considered to be a promising material for optoelectronic device applications. Ligands such as oleic acid (OA) and oleylamine (OAm) are essential for the synthesis of perovskite QDs, but their roles on double perovskite QDs are not yet clear. In this study, we have investigated the binding of OA and OAm to Cs2NaInCl6 QDs through FTIR and NMR and their effects on the surface defect reduction and stability improvement for Cs2NaInCl6 QDs. We found that only OAm was bound to the QD surfaces while OA was not. The OAm has a great effect on photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) improvement by passivate the QD surface defects. The stability of the QDs was also investigated, and it was shown that OA played a significant role in the stability of the QDs. Our findings provide critical insights into the roles of the ligands for photophysical properties and stability of lead-free double perovskite QDs.

Reflux esophagitis, a treatment for gastric ulcers known as Ilaprazole (Ila), is not stable during storage and handling at room temperature, requiring storage at 5 degrees celsius. In this study, to address these issues with Ila, coformers rich in oxygen (O) and hydroxyl (OH) groups capable of forming hydrogen bonds with were selected. These coformers included Xylitol (Xyl), Meglumine (Meg), Nicotinic acid (Nic), L-Aspartic acid (Asp), and L-Glutamic acid (Glu). A 1:1 physical mixture of Ila and each coformer was prepared, and the potential for cocrystal for-mation was predicted using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) screening. The results indi-cated the potential for cocrystal formation in the Ila/Xyl physical mixture. Subsequently, Ila and Xyl were mixed in ethyl acetate (EA) in a 1:1 ratio, and after 28 hours of slurry, the formation of Ila/Xyl cocrystal was confirmed through solid-state CP/MAS 13C NMR spectrum analysis, showing intermolecular hydrogen bonding and conformational changes. Furthermore, the 1:1 ratio of Ila/Xyl cocrystal was confirmed through solution-state NMR (1H, 13C, and 2D) molecular structure analysis. To assess the stability of Ila/Xyl cocrystal at room temperature, it was stored and com-pared with Ila at 25±2°C and relative humidity (RH) of 65±5% over three months. The results showed that the purity of Ila/Xyl cocrystal remained at 99.8% from the initial purity of 99.75% over the three months, while Ila was predicted to decrease from an initial 99.8% purity to 90% after three months. Additionally, at 25±2°C and RH 65±5%, a specific impurity B in Ila/Xyl cocrystal was observed to be 0.03% over three months, whereas Ila was predicted to increase from an initial 0.032% to 2.28% after three months. To evaluate the dissolution rate of Ila/Xyl cocrystal, a formulation was prepared and compared with Ila at pH 10, with a dosage equivalent to 10mg of Ila. The results showed that Ila/Xyl cocrystal reached 55% within 15 minutes and 100% within 45 minutes, while Ila was predicted to reach 32% at 15 minutes and 100% only after 60 minutes. However, overall, the Ila/Xyl cocrystal showed results equivalent to or exceeding the dissolution rate of Ila. Therefore, it is predicted that the Ila/Xyl cocrystal will maximize its effectiveness as a more convenient crystal structure for formulation development, allowing storage and preservation at room temperature without the need for the problematic 5°C refrigeration during ambient con-ditions and storage, addressing the issues associated with Ila.

.Background: Neither radiological phenotypic characteristics nor reconstruction CT scan to study the cranial contour in children with the so called the idiopathic type of West syndrome has been implemented to reach the etiology understanding. Material and Methods: The basic diagnostic measures and the traditional antiepileptic treatments have been applied to these children in accordance with the conventional protocol of investigations and treatment for children with West syndrome. Boys from three unrelated families were given the diagnosis of idiopathic type of West syndrome. Three boys aged 6,7,9 and three parents (age range of 28-41 year) were included in this study. These children and their parents were referred to our orthopedic departments because of variable skeletal deformities. All showed the history of intellectual disabilities, cryptogenic epileptic spasms and fragmented hypsarrhythmia. Recently, variable forms skeletal deformities of flat foot, torticollis and early onset osteoarthritis. We performed detailed clinical and radiological phenotypic characterization of every affected child, siblings and parents. All affected children underwent whole exome sequence analysis Results: The craniofacial phenotype of all children revealed apparent disruption of development of the cranial bones. Palpation of the skull bones showed unusual palpable boney ridges along different sutural locations. A-7-year-old child showed abnormal bulging over the sagittal suture associated with bilateral boney ridges over the sequamosal sutures. Examining his parents, we noticed a similar skull radiographic abnormality in his mother radiographs. A-10-year-old boy showed an extremely narrow frontal area, facial asymmetry and a well palpable ridge over the lambdoid sutures. 3D reconstruction CT scan confirmed the diagnosis of early closure . His mother showed typical radiographic skull phenotype with a history of postadulthood scoliosis. A- 12-year-old boy showed brachycephaly. Investigating his parents revealed a brachycephalic mother with border line intellegence. We affirm that the pattern of inheritance in the three boys was compatible with X-linked recessive pattern of inheritance . Whole exome sequencing showed non definite phenotype/genotype correlation. Conclusion: The aim of this study was fivefold. First, to refute the common usage of the term idiopathic and we affirm that our findings are Novel. Second, it could be possible that West syndrome is a symptom complex rather than a separate diagnostic entity. Third, to further detect the genetic carrier , we explored the connection between the cranial bones in the children with West syndrome with what is seen in parents.. Fourth, the differences in cranial bones abnormalities among every child and another seems to be heterogeneous. Fifth, it seems that the progressive deceleration in the development of this group of children is highly connected to the progressive closure of the cranial sutures.

This study investigates the spatio-temporal variability of the onset, offset, and Length of the rainy season in Senegal over the 1981-2018 period. The onset, offset dates, and length of the rainy season are crucial parameters for agricultural planning in West Africa, which exhibits high interannual and spatial variability in rainfall. The objective is to detect and spatially classify these phenological parameters across Senegal using different approaches. Daily precipitation data from the Climate Hazards group InfraRed Precipitation with Stations (CHIRPS) dataset over the study period and ERA5 reanalysis were used. The method of was applied to detect the onset, offset dates, and length of the rainy season. The Kohonen algorithm was then used to spatially classify these parameters on topological maps. A hierarchical ascendant classification was also performed to reduce the number of classes obtained. Finally, a composite analysis of moisture transport before the onset and end of the 1984 and 2007 seasons was conducted with ERA5 data. The results show a meridional gradient of the start of the season, progressively later from southeast to northwest, while the end follows a north-south gradient. The duration of the rainy season ranges from 45 days in northern Senegal to 150 days in the south. The maximum number of dry days also decreases from north to south. The Kohonen self-organizing maps allow spatial prediction of the onset, end date, and duration of the rainy season across Senegal. The dynamics analysis reveals that early onset years are associated with stronger and earlier northward moisture transport over West Africa, underscoring the role of this parameter in triggering the rainy season. These promising results can provide an early warning to policymakers and farmers on the start and end dates of the season in each area of Senegal.

Introduction: Desmoid tumor (DT) is a rare benign neoplasm rising from muscle aponeurosis, having been associated mostly with trauma or pregnancy. DT has an infiltrative and locally aggressive growth pattern and usually does not metastasize. However, it has a high recurrence and complication rate. When they occur in pregnancy, are all pregnancies and deliveries taken as individual case for optimal management by the physicians and midwifes, who need to be cautious in finding the optimal delivery mode for patients, which depends on tumor size, location, behavior and past history. Study Objectives: We present a case report of a large desmoid tumor of the anterior abdominal wall in a 29-year-old woman in pregnancy, presenting a delivery problem, which resolved in surgical management. Moreover, we are bringing a systematic review of the literature to provide an overview on pathomechanism, symptoms, diagnostics and treatment management of the pregnant women affected by DT. Results: The authors report a case of pregnant women who underwent systemic oncological treatment for abdominal wall desmoid tumor and have been pregnant afterwards. The observational conservative management was chosen with an elective cesarean section at the 38+4 pregnancy week with uncomplicated postpartum follow-up. Conclusion: Pregnancy-associated desmoid tumors are very rare and optimal management of this tumor is not well established, despite some guidelines for non-pregnant patients. The authors reviewed the literature focusing on the actual modern management of desmoid tumors at all, including patients during the pregnancy, as well.

Temperature is a crucial environmental factor that affects embryonic development, particularly for marine organisms with long embryonic development periods. However, the sensitive period of embryonic development and the role of autophagy/apoptosis in temperature regulation in cephalopods, enigmatic creatures, remain unclear. In this study, we cultured embryos of Sepiella japonica, a typical species in the local area of the East China Sea, at different incubation temperatures (18 ℃, 23 ℃, and 28 ℃) to investigate various developmental aspects, including morphological and histological characteristics, mortality rates, the duration of embryonic development, and expression patterns of autophagy-related genes (LC3, BECN1, Inx4) and apoptosis marker genes (Cas3, p53) at 25 developmental stages. Our findings indicate that embryos in the high-temperature (28 ℃) group had significantly higher mortality and embryonic malformation rates than those in the low-temperature (18 ℃) group. Furthermore, high temperature (28 ℃) shortened the duration of embryonic development by 7 days compared to the optimal temperature (23 ℃), while low temperature (18 ℃) caused a delay of 9 days. Therefore, embryos of S. japonica were more intolerant to high temperatures (28 ℃), emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining an appropriate incubation temperature (approximately 23 ℃). Additionally, our study observed, for the first time, that the Early blastula, Blastopore closure, and Optic vesicle to Caudal end stages were the most sensitive stages. During these periods, abnormalities in the expression of autophagy-related and apoptosis-related genes were associated with higher rates of mortality and malformations, highlighting the strong correlation and potential interaction between autophagy and apoptosis in embryonic development under varying temperature conditions.

Among the main elements that contribute to climate change are degradation processes and the ecological level of the landscape. These two topics have been discussed and researched for many years and many studies have been conducted. The idea of the article is to determine the correlation between the ecological stability of the territory and the intensity of degradation processes and find out how the ecological stability affects the intensity of soil erosion and vice versa. The ecological stability was calculated based on various methods during the years analyzed, i.e., 1990, 2006, 2012, and 2018. The soil water erosion was performed for the same period in order to identify the relationship between the ecological stability and intensity of soil erosion. The investigated area is located in the Slovak Republic while each year reflects different management of the territory reflecting the current situation in the catchment according to the year evaluated. The intensity of the erosion process was conducted using a phycially-based EROSION-3D model and based on the precipitation derived using Community Land Model (the CLM model). In addition to identifying the relationship between the level of ecological stability and the intensity of erosion, this study also describes the development the ecological stability during the evaluated period together with changes in soil erosion processes.

Vanadium is a well-known essential trace element, which usually exists in oxidation states in form of vanadate cation intracellularly. The pharmacological study of vanadium begins at the discovery of its unexpected inhibitory effect on ATPase. Thereafter, the protective effects on cells and the abilities in glucose metabolism regulation were observed from vanadium compound, leading to the application of vanadium compounds in clinical trials for curing diabetes. Alzheimer’s dis-ease (AD) is the most common dementia disease in elderly people. However, there is still no efficient agents for treating AD safely to date. This is mainly because of the complexity of the pathology, which are characterized by the senile plaques composed by amyloid-beta (Aβ) protein in the parenchyma of brain and the neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) derived from hyperphosphorylated tau protein in neurocyte, along with mitochondrial damage, and eventually the central nervous system (CNS) atrophy. AD was also illustrated as type-3 diabetes, because of the observations of insulin deficiency and the high level of glucose in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), as well as the im-paired insulin signaling in brain. In this review, we summarized the advance of applicating vanadium compound on AD treatment in experimental research and pointed out the limitation of the current study on using vanadium compounds in AD treatment. We hope it will help the future study in this field.

The rapid advancements in gene therapy have opened up new possibilities for the treatment of genetic disorders, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Thalassemia, cystic fibrosis, Hemophilia, and Familial hypercholesterolemia. The utilization of the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) - CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) system has revolutionized the field of gene therapy by enabling precise targeting of genes. In recent years, CRISPR/Cas9 has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in treating cancer and genetic diseases. However, the susceptibility of nucleic acid drugs to degradation by nucleic acid endonucleases, necessitates the development of functional vectors capable of protecting the nucleic acids from enzymatic degradation, while ensuring safety and effectiveness. This review aims to explore the biomedical potential of non-viral vector-explore CRISPR/Cas9 systems for the treatment of genetic diseases. Furthermore, it provides a comprehensive overview of recent research advances in viral and non-viral vector-based gene therapy for genetic disorders, including insights from preclinical and clinical studies. Additionally, the review analyzes the current limitations of these delivery systems and proposes avenues for the development of novel nano-delivery platforms.

Biogas production from organic waste is a promising renewable energy source, but achieving optimal production and digester stability can be challenging. This study investigated the impact of the Evogen microbial additive on biogas production and digester quality through microbial abundance and physicochemical parameter analysis. Two biogas plants, BG01 and BG02, were examined using 16S rRNA profiling to assess microbial abundance. Simultaneously, physicochemical parameters, including FOS/TAC ratio, total solids, volatile solids, biogas production, and VFA profile, were measured to evaluate digester performance. Results revealed distinct microbial community shifts in Evogen-treated digesters. Increased abundance of methanogenic archaea and hydrolytic bacteria indicated improved anaerobic digestion. Evogen supplementation also positively affected digester performance, with higher FOS/TAC ratios indicating enhanced acidification and methanogenesis. Reductions in total solids and volatile solids demonstrated improved organic matter degradation. Significantly higher biogas production was observed in Evogen-treated digesters, highlighting its potential as a microbial additive. Furthermore, VFA profiling demonstrated improved process stability and reduced substrate inhibition in Evogen-treated digesters. In summary, Evogen microbial additive positively influenced microbial dynamics, improving biogas production and digester quality. These findings contribute to optimizing biogas production systems and understanding the complex microbial interactions within anaerobic digesters.

The COVID-19 pandemic has invited us to envision education anew, embracing a new era of instructional practices and learning environments. This study explores language teachers' and students' experiences in the post-pandemic landscape, providing valuable insights into the challenges, adaptations, and opportunities. Grounded in socio-cultural perspectives and educational theories, such as Vygotsky's socio-cultural theory and Deci and Ryan's self-determination theory, the study employs Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to comprehensively analyze secondary data sources. Findings reveal the significant role of social interaction and cultural context in language learning, amid reduced face-to-face contact and increased reliance on technology. The study uncovers the intricate interplay between individual, interpersonal, and environmental factors, shedding light on educators' and learners' challenges. Autonomy, competence, and relatedness emerge as crucial for intrinsic motivation and optimal learning outcomes. While acknowledging limitations related to secondary data sources, the study offers a comprehensive overview of the literature, informing language education practices in the post-pandemic era. It contributes to understanding the complex dynamics and interactions within language education and calls for future research using primary data collection methods to explore experiences and perspectives further. By understanding post-pandemic experiences, this study aims to shape education policies, practices, and pedagogical approaches, supporting effective language learning and the well-being of educators and learners in this transformed educational context.

Globally, over 1.4 billion adult people remain unbanked. This worrisome phenomenon was exacerbated by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, which further created a new dimension of inequality in accessing financial services. Digital financial inclusion promises to be an effective tool for addressing this socioeconomic ill and propelling economic development. Given the limited studies on the subject in the context of the developing economies, it is imperative to understand the existing policies, practices, and barriers to digital financial inclusion in the developing economies so as to provide cutting-edge interventions for redress. It is against this background that this study seeks to address the following research questions: (1) What is the state of digital financial inclusion in the developing economy? (2) What are the policies and practices regarding digital financial inclusion in the developing economy? (3) What are the barriers to digital financial inclusion and innovative interventions for redress? Findings reveal that about 44% of the adult population in developing countries does not have access to financial services, with only a few countries that have made significant progress and gains through policy and practice such as mobile financial services, mobile money interoperability, native connectivity, human capital development, and digitalization of public services for digital financial inclusion. The findings also identify challenges and implications with recommendations, which are discussed in detail in the paper.

Emotional instability and stress are main disturbances that condition the learning process, affecting both teachers and students. The main objective of this review is to analyze the influence of stress and emotions (as part of stress) on the learning process. The quality and intensity of emotions will not depend exclusively on a particular situation, but also on the subjective evaluation that the person makes of the situation in terms of a set of assessment dimensions. Emotions lead to sentimental, cognitive, behavioral and physiological changes, which will have a strong influence on intellectual performance. Stress is a physiological mechanism that the organism develops to adapt and survive in external and internal environments. Although it seems that it is a general pattern of response to emotions, it could be assumed that each emotion seems to have its own pattern of physiological reaction. In conclusion, extreme stress situations can generate anxiety and frustration in students. The activation of coping strategies constitutes a key mechanism for dealing positively with problems and challenges, generating positive emotions essential for the self-regulation of learning.

This study examined the ventral process of C6 in extinct and extant Equus (sister taxa to Equus ferus caballus only) with the purpose of describing normal morphology and identifying anomalous variations relevant to recent studies describing a congenital malformation in E. ferus caballus. Overall, 83 specimens from 9 museums and 3 research/educational facilities were examined – 71 extinct specimens from 12 species and 12 extant specimens from 5 species. The lateral view revealed a large convexity existed in the ventral process between the cranial ventral tubercle (CrVT) and the caudal ventral tubercle (CVT) in the earliest ancestor Hyracotherium grangeri 55mya that receded throughout the millennia to a smaller convexity in E. ferus caballus and sister taxa. The CrVT was visibly shorter and narrower than the CVT with a constricted section directly ventral to the transverse process essentially demarcating the CrVT and CVT. No congenital malformations were evident. As the ventral process of C6 is an integral component for muscle attachment in supporting the head/neck during posture and locomotion, this would indicate the caudal module in the cervical column might be compromised when a partial or complete absence of the CVT is detected via radiographs in modern E. ferus caballus.

IKEA is a massive international conglomerate company, and the purpose of this exploratory qualitative research is to investigate how the burgeoning academic field known as "artificial intelligence" (AI) could assist IKEA in resolving some of the challenges that it is currently dealing with in relation to its efforts to source sustainable materials. According to the conclusions of this study, artificial intelligence has the potential to aid in the resolution of at least some of the issues associated with sustainable sourcing, at least to some degree. This was developed by mapping the issues, analyzing the potential for adopting artificial intelligence as a solution, and defining the components that are required for efficient adoption of the technology. A number of prerequisites need to be satisfied by businesses before artificial intelligence may be used in the area of sustainable sourcing. In addition, a number of artificial intelligence's constraints need to be addressed before the technology can be put into practice by the same businesses. In conclusion, the findings of this study offer some management implications and ideas for businesses that have the goal of sourcing in a way that is less harmful to the environment by making use of technological breakthroughs such as artificial intelligence. This can be accomplished through the utilization of innovative technologies.

(1) Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) and the COVID-19 pandemic has affected screening programmes. The aim of present study was to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the screening of diabetes patients in our Health Care Area (HCA); (2) Methods: A retrospective study of patients with DM who had attended the DR screening programme between January 2015 and June 2022. We studied attendance, DM metabolic control and DR incidence. (3) Results: Screening for DR decreased in the first months of the pandemic. Incidence of mild and moderate DR remained stable throughout the study, and we observed a little increase in severe-DR, proliferative-DR and neovascular glaucoma, during 2021 and 2022. (4) Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a reduction in the number of patients screened for DM, although its effect on DR seems limited, with a similar number of patients with DR throughout 2015 to 2022, despite the number of patients with severe-DR and proliferative-DR increased in 2021 and 2022.

The gut microbiome is a collection of microorganisms and parasites that reside in the gastrointestinal tract. There are many factors that can affect the composition of this community, such as age, sex, medications, and environmental triggers. The relationship between the human host and the gut microbiota is very important for both the survival and development of the organism. The disruption of this relationship can lead to the development of various inflammatory diseases. CBD and THC are used to treat muscle spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis. It is now clear these compounds also benefit patients with neuroinflammation. A study that investigated the role of gut microbiota in treating the inflammation and paralysis in a mouse model demonstrated that treatment with CBD and THC produced significant decrease in the inflammation levels. They also exhibited a significant increase in the number of anti-inflammatory cytokines. The presence of certain cannabinoids can suppress neuroinflammation and prevent microbial dysbiosis. Several studies have revealed the role of the gut microbiota in the development and maintenance of skeletal integrity and bone mineral density. The gut is a major source of nutrients, including vitamins B and K. It can also influence the development and maintenance of bone matrix. The presence of the gut microbiota can influence the actions of certain T regulatory cells, which can lead to the development of bone formation and proliferation. In addition, its metabolites can prevent bone loss. The gut microbiota can help maintain the bone's equilibrium and prevent the development of metabolic diseases, such as osteoporosis. In this review, the dual functions gut microbiota plays in the regulation of gut-bone axis and gut-brain axis and the impact of CBD on these roles are discussed in detail.

To expand the application area of the reference group and enrich exercise theoretical research, based on Stimulus-Organism-Response (S–O-R) framework, this study examines the factors that motivate for adherence to exercise from the external. Taking reference group and strategy and cultural fit as the main stimulus, and personal investment and life satisfaction as mediating variables, this study try to explore the influence of external stimulus on residents’ exercise behavior. In order to enrich the sample size, two surveys of 734 Chinese residents in two cities (Xiamen vs. Fuzhou) were conducted using factor analyses, regression analysis, and T-test analysis. The results indicated that the reference group and strategic and cultural fit as external stimulus have impact on residents’personal investment, life satisfaction and exercise adherence, personal investment and life satisfaction as the organism has impact on residents’ exercise adherence. Personal investment and life satisfaction play a chain mediating role between the reference group and exercise adherence, strategy and cultural fit, and exercise adherence. Moreover, the T-test determined the differences between Xiamen and Fuzhou residents’ exercise adherence and life satisfaction. Residents’ surroundings affect their exercise behavior and life satisfaction. These findings have implications for policymaking aimed at promoting national exercise, which could gradually improve residents’ physical fitness, particularly in light of the current coronavirus emergency.

The article continues the author's publications about the matrix-tensor study of universal rules of stochastic (probabilistic) organization of long single-stranded DNA sequences in eukaryotic and prokaryotic genomes. The author reveals that corresponding matrices of probabilities of n-plets in n-textual representations of each genomic DNA are numerically interrelated each with other in such algebraic form, which has analogies with formalisms of the known tensor-matrix theory of digital antenna arrays. These arrays combine many separate antennas into a single coordinated ensemble with unique emergent properties, due to which antenna arrays are widely used in devices of medicine, astrophysics, avionics, etc. The noted analogies allow putting forward the author's hypothesis that the stochastic organization of genomic DNAs is connected with bio-antenna arrays. From the point of view of this hypothesis, many known facts about using principles of antenna arrays in inherited physiological phenomena are collected in a single grouping with genomic DNAs. This new topic about the biological meaning of profitable properties of antenna arrays includes problems of biological evolution, the origin of the genetic code, regenerative medicine, and the development of algebraic biology. These issues are discussed jointly with the author's results of quantum information analysis of stochastic features of genomic DNAs.

The effects of photon inertia on the determination of its trajectory were verified and the representation of a displacement mass characterized by the flow of the number of wavefronts and the decomposition of photon inertia into parts associated with translation and rotation motions was considered. It was found that with the relativistic increase of the photon's resistance to change its directional properties, it inhibits the relativistic trajectory of the second torque, of Minkowski, in an angular range of incidence. After synchronizations, in the OAM inversions, there are reductions of the inertia associated to the translational part that assumes classical predominance, where the relativistic trajectory is allowed while the photon offers less resistance to changes in its directional properties. The classical-relativistic variability of the photon inertia characterizes the classical or relativistic profile of the energy distribution in forms of motion, where adjustments of the rotational and translational parts can be performed as a function of the refractive index rate, temperature and angle of incidence. It was found that with increasing temperature of the refringent medium, the synchronizations displacement in the sense of the normal incidence. A specific vacuum temperature for the refringent medium was characterized, where the photon exhibits a classical-relativistic synchronization under all angles of incidence, characteristic of its immaterial state in vacuum.

Aflatoxins (AFs) contamination of cereals is considered one of the greatest food safety concerns worldwide. Occurrence of AFs in maize, wheat, rice and sorghum is highly prevalent with each commodity accounting for more than 10% of world’s AF exposure. Their occurrence as food contaminants is also associated with huge economic losses. AFs are highly stable compounds that cannot be eliminated by regular processing of grains. Hence, prevention of AFs in food and feed is now considered more important than the subsequent interventions to mitigate the deleterious health effects of AFs in human and animals. However, the development of an effective preventive strategy hinges on a clear understanding of the underlying factors influencing AFs production. Therefore, the present review aims to highlight the most significant factors influencing AFs contamination of cereals at pre-and post-harvest stages. This is crucial for effective monitoring of critical control points and optimisation of preventive strategies in food and feed supply chains. Several intrinsic and extrinsic factors have been reported of which nutritional composition, environmental factors (temperature, water activity and relative humidity) and climate change have been identified as primary factors, while pH of the substrate, carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the gaseous environment, and agronomic and socioeconomic status are the main secondary factors promoting AFs biosynthesis in cereals. Additionally, an overview of global occurrence of AFs in cereals, with their health impacts and various preventive measures have also been highlighted.

Laser shock peening is a process which can reduce stress corrosion cracking and improve fatigue life by forming compressive residual stress on the surface of the material. In a computational FE simulation of laser shock peening, during applying the pressure load generated by the laser pulse to the surface of simulation geometry, the peening is simulated by explicit analysis and then convert to implicit analysis to dissipate the dynamic energy remaining in the geometry. In this study, static damping is applied to dissipate residual dynamic energy without converting it into an implicit analysis. The compressive residual stress distribution is compared between the simulation results for the stainless steel 304 material and the same material subjected to actual laser shock peening. The laser shock peening parameters were 4.2J laser pulse energy, 50% overlap of 3mm diameter of the laser beam and water as a confinement layer. As a result, the compressive residual stress from the surface to the depth direction is similar to both the simulation and the experimental result measured by the hole drilling method.

The genus Pseudomonas hosts an extensive genetic diversity and is one of the largest genera among Gram-negative bacteria. Type strains of Pseudomonas are well-known to represent only a small fraction of this diversity and the number of available Pseudomonas genome sequences is increasing rapidly. Consequently, new Pseudomonas species are regularly reported and the number of species within the genus is in constant evolution. In this study, whole genome se-quencing enabled us to define 43 new Pseudomonas species and to provide an update of the Pseu-domonas evolutionary and taxonomic relationships. Phylogenies based on the rpoD gene and whole genome sequences, including 316 and 313 type strains of Pseudomonas, respectively, re-vealed sixteen groups of Pseudomonas and justified the partitioning of the P. putida group into fifteen subgroups. Pairwise average nucleotide identities were calculated between type strains and a selection of 60 genomes of non-type strains of Pseudomonas. Forty-one strains were incor-rectly assigned at the species level and among those, 19 strains were shown to represent an addi-tional 13 new Pseudomonas species that remain to be formally classified. This work pinpoints the importance of correct taxonomic assignment and phylogenetic classification in order to perform integrative studies linking genetic diversity, lifestyle and metabolic potential of Pseudomonas spp.

Objective: Studies in Sports Psychology and Sociology have validated causality in team-sport athletes by using emotional intelligence as a variable. This study aimed to examine the causal relationship between the types of autonomy support coaching, emotional intelligence, and interruption intention as psychosocial variables among current taekwondo athletes in Korea.Methods: In this study, 217 adult or university athletes registered in the Korea Taekwondo Association in 2020 were evaluated for the type of autonomy support coaching, emotional intelligence, and interruption intention. Results: Autonomy support coaching recognized by taekwondo athletes has a negative and positive effect on interruption intention and emotional intelligence, respectively. Moreover, emotional intelligence has a negative effect on interruption intention. which revealed that autonomy support coaching has a negative effect on interruption intention through emotional intelligence.Conclusions: Such outcomes can serve as a foundation for athletes to have the opportunity to participate in sports in a mature manner and promote positive changes in sports culture. In other words, the sensibility of the athletes can be harmoniously symmetry.

Objective: Studies in Sports Psychology and Sociology have validated causality in team-sport athletes by using emotional intelligence as a variable. This study aimed to examine the causal relationship between the types of autonomy support coaching, emotional intelligence, and interruption intention as psychosocial variables among current taekwondo athletes in Korea. Methods: In this study, 217 adult or university athletes registered in the Korea Taekwondo Association in 2020 were evaluated for the type of autonomy support coaching, emotional intelligence, and interruption intention. Results: Autonomy support coaching recognized by taekwondo athletes has a negative and positive effect on interruption intention and emotional intelligence, respectively. Moreover, emotional intelligence has a negative effect on interruption intention. which revealed that autonomy support coaching has a negative effect on interruption intention through emotional intelligence. Conclusions: Such outcomes can serve as a foundation for athletes to have the opportunity to participate in sports in a mature manner and promote positive changes in sports culture. In other words, the sensibility of the athletes can be harmoniously symmetry.

Concerns about China’s air quality, and its impact on the important tourism industry have been on the debate in recent years. This article aims to investigate the potential effect of air pollution on direct economic impact of tourism, using the case of Beijing and Shanghai. The results indicate that air pollution negatively affects China's inbound tourism, resulting in huge loss of tourist arrivals and receipts, and Beijing suffers a greater loss in comparison with Shanghai, its loss in tourist number amounts to 1569,700 persons, equal to CNY 10264.268 million in tourism receipts, and the GDP losses ranges from CNY 20528.536 to 41057.072 across major source countries. This study provides a quantification of the impact helpful to generate a social awareness of air pollution detrimental impacts on inbound tourism and hence the economy.

The conformational state of the activation loop (A-loop) is pivotal for the activation of most protein kinases. Hence, the characterization of the conformational dynamics of the A-loop is important to increase our understanding of the molecular processes related to diseases and to support the discovery of small molecule kinase inhibitors. Here, we carry out a combination of Molecular Dynamics (MD) and Essential Dynamics (ED) analyses to fully map the effects of phosphorylation, ADP, and conformation disrupting (CD) inhibitors (i.e., CD532 and MLN8054) on the dynamics of the A-loop of Aurora-A. MD revealed that the stability of the A-loop in an open conformation is enhanced by single phospho-Thr-288, while paradoxically, the presence of second phosphorylation at Thr-287 decreases such stability and renders the A-loop more fluctuant in time and space. Moreover, we found that such post-translational modification has a significant effect on the direction of A-loop motions. ED analysis suggests that the presence of the phosphate moiety induces the dynamics of Aurora-A to sample two distinct energy minima, instead of a single large minimum, as in unphosphorylated Aurora-A states. This suggests that the conformational distributions of Aurora-A with both single and double phospho-threonine modifications are remarkably different from the unphosphorylated state. In the closed states, binding of CD532 and MLN8054 inhibitors has the effect of increasing the distance of the N- and C-lobes of the kinase domain of Aurora-A, and the angle analysis between those two lobes during MD simulations showed that the N- and C-lobes are kept more open in presence of CD532, compared to MLN8054. As the A-loop is a common feature of Aurora protein kinases, our studies provide a general description of the conformational dynamics of this structure upon phosphorylation and different ligands binding.

Pancreatic cancer is a fatal disease with mortality rate of 5% and a with a limited survival rate of 5 years. Despite of the extensive efforts that has been made to cure the disease it still has been considered as ‘undruggable’. It is characterized by epithelial to dense stromal tumor formation however due to lack of diagnosis options and treatment test available to detect the disease to the point at which resection of the tumor is possible, it makes it the fourth leading cause of cancer related death. The unavailable information regarding the early detection of biological markers along with the increased invasive tumor, the inherit chemoresistance against medication radiation and chemotherapy stubbornly fail the therapeutic options available. These associated problems made the scientists to reevaluate the approaches that are currently in practice and take a step back to fully understand the basic biological pathways that are involved in the pancreatic cancer, the heterogeneity of the tumor itself along with expression and a number of mutations that are observed at different locations. Clinical trial along with new approaches are nowadays focus of research to treat this tumor. The review paper describes the basic cellular pathways involved in pancreatic cancer, the gene mutations and their expression having effect on the pathology of the diseases along with treatment options that are available to treat the tumor. These efforts will help with the expansion of our knowledge to undergo the clinical trial and the synthesis of novel medicines for the prognosis of the disease.

The conservation of coastal wetland ecosystems, like mangrove forests and salt marshes, represents a critical strategy for mitigating atmospheric emissions and climate change in the 21st century. Yet the existence of these environments is threatened by human-induced disturbances, namely deforestation and accelerated sea-level rise. Coastal systems maintain surface elevation in response to sea-level rise through a combination of physical and biological processes both above and below the ground surface. The quantification and relative contribution of belowground process controls (e.g., seasonal water content, organic matter decomposition) on surface elevation change is largely unexplored but crucial for informing coastal ecosystem sustainability. To address this knowledge deficit, we integrated measurements of surface elevation change of the live root zone (0.5 to 1 m depth) with geotechnical data from co-located sediment cores in the Sundarbans mangrove forest (SMF) of southwest Bangladesh. Core data reveal that the primary belowground controls on surface elevation change include seasonal fluctuations in pore-water content and the relative abundance of fine-grained sediments capable of volumetric expansion and contraction, supporting an elevation gain of ~2.42 ± 0.26 cm yr⁻¹. In contrast to many mangrove environments, the soils of the SMF contain little organic matter and are dominantly composed (>90%) of inorganic clastic sediments. The mineral-rich soil texture likely leads to less compaction-induced subsidence as compared to organic-rich substrates and facilitates surface equilibrium in response to sea level rise. Despite a relatively high soil bulk density, soil carbon (C) density of the SMF is very low owing to the dearth of preserved organic content. However, rates of C accumulation are balanced out by locally high accretion rates, rendering the SMF a greater sink of terrestrial C than the worldwide mangrove average. The findings of this study demonstrate that C accumulation in the SMF, and possibly other alluvial mangrove forests, is highly dependent on the continued delivery of sediment to the mangrove platform and associated settings.

Very well into the dawn of the fourth industrial revolution (industry 4.0), we hardly distinguish between what is artificial and what is natural (e.g. man-made virus and natural virus). Thus, the level of discombobulation among people, companies or countries is indeed unprecedented. The fact that industry 4.0 is explosively disrupting or retrofitting each and every industrial sector, makes industry 4.0 the famous buzzword amongst researchers today. However, the insight of industry 4.0 disruption in the industrial sectors remains ill-defined in both academic and non-academic literature. The present study aimed at identifying industry 4.0 neologisms, understanding the industry 4.0 disruption and illustrating the disruptive technologies convergence in the major industrial sectors. A total of 99 neologisms of industry 4.0 were identified. Industry 4.0 disruption in Education industry (Education 4.0), Energy industry (Energy 4.0), Agriculture industry (Agriculture 4.0), Healthcare industry (Healthcare 4.0), and Logistics industry (Logistics 4.0) are described. The convergence of 12 disruptive technologies including 3D printing, Artificial intelligence, Augmented reality, Big Data, Blockchain, Cloud computing, Drones, Internet of things, Nanotechnology, Robotics, Simulation and Synthetic biology in agriculture, healthcare and logistics industries are illustrated.

Background: The pathogenesis of duodenal ulcer has never been explained although the first description of this disease in medical literature appeared in 1817. Marshall et al. concluded that Helicobacter pylori was the most important etiological factor for duodenal ulcer in 1988, but the etiology based on this bacterium is controversial and how the bacterial infection leads to ulceration is presently unknown. Objectives: This study aims to identify the cause of duodenal ulcer, address the controversial issues surrounding Helicobacter pylori, elucidate the roles of gastric acid, and describe the pathological process of duodenal ulceration. Methods: First, a comprehensive systematic review on peptic ulcers (including gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer) was conducted and the results were summarized. Second, a recently published causal relationship was employed to identify the etiology of peptic ulcers. Third, novel concepts and methods were applied to analyze the existing data on duodenal ulcer. Results: The etiology of duodenal ulcer and the roles of Helicobacter pylori and gastric acid in this disease were identified. The controversies surrounding Helicobacter pylori were addressed, and many characteristics and phenomena/observations of duodenal ulcer were elucidated. The pathological process of duodenal ulceration was described. Conclusion: Existing data accumulated over the past 300 years was sufficient, when analyzed using novel concepts, to understand the pathogenesis of duodenal ulcer. Duodenal ulcer is not an infectious disease caused by the infection of Helicobacter pylori, but a psychosomatic disease triggered by psychological stress. Helicobacter pylori plays a secondary role in only the late phase of duodenal ulceration.

Androgens are key for pubertal development of the mammalian testis, a phenomenon tightly linked to Sertoli cell maturation. In this review, we discuss how androgen signalling affects Sertoli cell function and morphology by concomitantly inhibiting some processes and promoting others that contribute jointly to the completion of spermatogenesis. We focus on the molecular mechanisms that underlie AMH inhibition by androgens at puberty, as well as on the role androgens have on Sertoli cell tight junction formation and maintenance and, consequently, on its effect on proper germ cell differentiation and meiotic onset during spermatogenesis.

Positive Occupational Health Psychology (POHP) examines the mechanisms that promote workers’ health and wellbeing, in addition to risk factors arising from work activity. The aim of this study was to analyze the mediating role of perceived stress in the effect that self-efficacy has on engagement in nurses. The sample comprised 1777 currently working nurses. We administered the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES), the Perceived Stress Questionnaire and the General Self-Efficacy Scale. Following bivariate correlational analysis, multiple linear regression analysis, and simple and multiple mediation analysis the results showed Self-efficacy to be a powerful personal resource that positively predicts employees’ engagement, although the effect diminishes when there are mediating variables of stress. We found differences in the way the different aspects of stress mediated the relationship between Self-efficacy and the engagement dimensions. “Energy–joy” was the strongest mediating variable for all of the engagement dimensions, and this, together with “harassment–social acceptance” dampened the effect of Self-efficacy on vigor and dedication, whereas “Overload” was only a mediator for dedication. Because nurses work in a stressful environment, risk factor arising from work activity, hospital management should design interventions to enhance their workers’ personal resources and improve personal and organizational wellbeing.

We have studied Juniperus oxycedrus subsp. badia in the central and southern Iberian Peninsula. Here, the macrobioclimate ranges from Mediterranean-pluviseasonal-oceanic and Mediterranean-pluviseasonal-continental, thermotype from thermomediterranean and supramediterranean. The relevés were taken following the Braun-Blanquet phytosociological methodology. A statistical treatment was applied to establish a separation among Juniperus communities. To understand the presence of Juniperus communities in territories dominated by species of the genus Quercus, we applied the formula of Thornthwaite to calculate potential evapotranspiration. The general cluster analysis clearly separates two groups of plant communities and separates the different associations in each group. All plant communities growing on rocky crests and in steeply extreme sloping areas are significantly influenced by the soil. The Ombroclimatic Index does not explain the presence of plant communities influenced by substrate: so, we propose a new Ombroedaphoxeric Index which explains the presence of the Juniperus communities in territories with a thermotype ranging from the thermo to the supramediterranean belt. The areas of distribution of Juniperus species are expanding due to the spread of rocky areas: this phenomenon causes a rise in edaphoxerophilous areas and a decrease in climatophilous one. We propose four new plant associations and with this update on their structures and floristic compositions, it is possible to make an efficient form of conservation in both territories studied (Spain and Portugal) with specific cross-border-cooperation projects.

Fatty acids play a major role in determining membrane biophysical properties. Staphylococcus aureus produces branched-chain fatty acids (BCFAs) and straight-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and can incorporate exogenous SCFAs and straight-chain unsaturated fatty acids (SCUFAs). Many S. aureus strains produce the triterpenoid pigment staphyloxanthin, and the balance of BCFAs, SCFAs and staphyloxanthin determines membrane fluidity. Here, we investigated the relationship of fatty acid and carotenoid production in S. aureus using a pigmented strain (Pig1), its carotenoid-deficient mutant (Pig1ΔcrtM) and the naturally non-pigmented Staphylococcus argenteus that lacks carotenoid biosynthesis genes and is closely related to S. aureus. Fatty acid compositions in all strains were similar under a given condition indicating that staphyloxanthin does not influence fatty acid composition. Strain Pig1 had decreased membrane fluidity as measured by fluorescence anisotropy than the other strains under all conditions indicating that staphyloxanthin helps maintain membrane rigidity. We could find no evidence for correlation of expression of crtM and fatty acid biosynthesis genes. Supplementation of medium with glucose increased SCFA production and decreased BCFA and staphyloxanthin production, whereas acetate-supplementation also decreased BCFAs but increased staphyloxanthin production. We believe that staphyloxanthin levels are influenced more through metabolic regulation than responding to fatty acids incorporated into the membrane.

This paper presents a research carried out in the city of Chillan, a medium size city located on the southern limit of the Chilean Mediterranean domain, at 36º 36`s south latitude. Chillán provides a good representative example of warm summers in central and southern Chilean cities. Five public spaces were selected, representing different typologies and relating to different urban background conditions. Users in these public spaces were observed, counted and photographed five times a day (12, 14, 16, 18 and 20 hours, local time) during a heat wave event in the summer of 2016, while meteorological parameters were established at different points within the public space. The variables evaluated were impervious surfaces, Skyview factor, H/W, azimuth, shadow and radiation. Local public environmental management should pay attention to the complex relations between urban climate, public spaces and thermal comfort since they affect the quality of life of the most vulnerable sectors of the population. This is particularly important given the increasing episodes of high temperatures and intense heat waves occurred in the city of Chillán in recent summers, which are related to urban heat islands and climate change.

Viruses with spindle or lemon-shaped virions are rare in the world of viruses, but are common in viruses of archaeal extremophiles, possibly due to the extreme conditions in which they thrive. However, the structural and genetic basis for the unique spindle shape is unknown. The best-studied spindle-shaped virus, SSV1, is composed mostly of the major capsid protein VP1. Similar to many other viruses, proteolytic cleavage of VP1 is thought to be critical for virion formation. Unlike half of the genes in SSV1, including the minor capsid protein gene vp3, the vp1 gene does not tolerate deletion or transposon insertion. In order determine the role of the vp1 gene and its proteolysis for virus function, we developed techniques for site-directed mutagenesis of the SSV1 genome and complemented deletion mutants with vp1 genes from other SSVs. By analyzing these mutants we demonstrate that the N-terminus of the VP1 protein is required, but the N-terminus, or entire SSV1 VP1 protein, can be exchanged with VP1s from other SSVs. However, the conserved glutamate at the cleavage site is not essential for infectivity. Interestingly, viruses containing point mutations at this position generate mostly abnormal virions.

The goal of this study was to analyze the instability during stepping of young and older adults at fast and spontaneous speed. To this aim, the anteroposterior and the mediolateral distances between the body center of mass (COM) and the minimum moment axis (MMA) were computed. A total of 15 young adults (25y.o. [19-29]) and 15 older adults 68.7y.o. [63-77] volunteered for this study. For the computation of the distances, a complete biomechanical protocol combining two force platforms and a 3D motion capture analysis system was setup. The subjects were equipped with 47 reflective markers and were modeled as a frictionless multibody with 19 segments, 18 joints and 42 degrees of freedom and were asked to perform a stepping at both speeds. The stepping was divided in 5 phases with successive swing and double stance phases. The greater instability was observed during the swing phases. The distances indicate a significant higher instability at fast speed for both groups (p &lt; 0.001) for all the phases. The anteroposterior distance also increases significantly for older adults highlighting greater instability while no differences were observed for the mediolateral distance all along the 5 phases suggesting higher risks of backward of forward falls during stepping.

Insulin resistance/hyperinsulinemia as an independent risk factor for the development and worsening of HFpEF. Serafino Fazio MD¹, Valentina Mercurio MD, PhD2, Valeria Fazio MD3, Antonio Ruvolo MD⁴, Flora Affuso MD, PhD⁵. Authors’ Affiliation: ¹ Department of Internal Medicine (retired Professor). Federico II University, Via Sergio Pansini 5. 80135 Naples, Italy. 2 Department of Translational Medical Sciences. Federico II University. Via Sergio Pasini 5. 80135 Naples, Italy. ³ UOC Medicina Interna, Azienda Ospedaliera di Caserta, 81100 Caserta, Italy, ⁴ UOC Cardiologia AORN dei colli PO CTO, Viale Colli Aminei 21, 80100 Naples, Italy. ⁵ Independent researcher, Viale Raffaello 74, 80129 Naples, Italy. Abstract Heart failure (HF) has become a subject of continuous interest since it has been declared new pandemic in 1997 because of the exponential increase in hospitalizations for HF in the latest years. HF is the final state to which all heart diseases of different etiologies lead if not adequately treated, therefore it is highly prevalent worldwide, with a progressive increase with age, reaching a prevalence of 10% in subjects over the age of 65 years. It should also be underlined that lately, while the prevalence of HF with left ventricular reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is slowly decreasing, the incidence of HF with left ventricular preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is progressively increasing. In deed, among patients consecutively hospitalized for HF between 1987 and 2001 in a study from the Mayo Clinic Hospitals in Olmsted County, Minnesota, prevalence of HFpEF increased from 38% to 54%. HFpEF is typically characterized by concentric remodeling of the left ventricle (LV) with impaired diastolic function and increased filling pressures. Over the years, also the prevalence of insulin resistance/hyperinsulinemia in the general adult population has progressively increased, primarily due to lifestyle changes, particularly in developed and developing countries, with a range that globally ranges between 15.5% and 46.5%. Notably, insulin resistance (IR)/hyperinsulinemia (Hyperins) is present in up to 60% of patients with HF and is significantly higher in subjects with HfpEF. In the scientific literature it has been well highlighted that the increased circulating levels of insulin are associated with conditions of insulin resistance are responsible for progressive cardiovascular alterations over the years. In the setting of HFpEF, insulin stimulates the concentric remodeling of the left ventricle with associated diastolic dysfunction, which, coincidentally. Unfortunately, IR/Hyperins, despite being a well-known cardiovascular risk factor, is still not screened in the general population and is not treated as promptly as it should be, and this could at least in part concur in the progressive increase in prevalence of HFpEF in the general adult population. The aim of this manuscript was to review scientific literature that support a pathophysiologic connection between IR/Hyperins and HFpEF to stimulate the scientific community towards the identification of hyperinsulinemia associated with insulin resistance as an independent cardiovascular risk factor in development and worsening of HF, believing that its adequate screening in the general population and appropriate treatment could reduce the prevalence of HFpEF and improve its progression.

Heat waves are a significant consequence of climate change threatening public health by increased morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to estimate individuals’ knowledge, attitudes and practice related to heat waves. We conducted an exploratory cross-sectional study in Greece during September 2023. We employed a convenience sample of 1055 participants. We used the heat wave knowledge, awareness, practice and behavior scale (HWKAPBS) to measure our outcome. We measured several socio-demographic variables, such as gender, age, educational level, etc. as potential determinants. Mean scores for the knowledge, awareness, practice and behavior factors were 12.5, 22.7, 22.2 and 12.1 respectively. Females had higher scores on the four factors compared with males. We found a positive relationship between self-perceived health status and awareness, practice and behavior about heat waves. Similarly, we identified a positive relationship between self-perceived financial status and awareness and behavior about heat waves. Increased age was associated with increased practice score, while increased educational level was associated with increased knowledge score. Additionally, behavior score was higher among participants in urban areas than those in rural areas. We found statistically significant positive correlations between the four factors. Levels of knowledge, awareness, practice and behavior about heat waves were high in our sample. Several socio-demographic variables affect participants’ knowledge, awareness, practice and behavior concerning heat waves.

This work investigates the influence of ground albedo on the solar radiation obtained by surfaces mounted on fixed-tilt to south, one-axis, and two-axis systems. To do this, estimation of the solar radiation difference is performed by applying real albedo and zero albedo. This is done within Saudi Arabia, at 82 selected sites. Annual, seasonal, and monthly mean solar energy differences are computed as function of the site’s number, latitude, and local near-real ground albedo. The great variation in the ground-albedo values at the 82 sites (0.1 - 0.46) could be thought as having a significant effect on the solar radiation levels received on the 3 tracking modes. The analysis shows quite the opposite; a zero-albedo ground diminishes solar radiation levels by 1.43%, 3.50%, and 3.20%, respectively for the 3 modes. Therefore, in most solar engineering applications a ground albedo of 0.2 (considered as reference) can be used without losing accuracy. This is the main conclusion of the study, which must, however, be applied with caution in areas with snow cover, especially for mode-III tracking systems. In such situations the increase in solar radiation levels may be up to 15% (but ≈3.5% for mode-I and -II systems instead).

In this study novel recommendations are presented and substantiated for selecting the number of modes and optical thicknesses of flat lattice slabs that make up the microreliefs, which minimize the computational complexity of the rigorous coupled-wave analysis calculation of the diffraction efficiency (DE) of a sawtooth two-layer two-relief microstructure, while maintaining the specified reliability of the calculation results. The computational complexity can be controlled by allowing one or another level of oscillation of the DE curves depend on the angle of incidence of the radiation incident on the microstructure. In particular, the complexity of the multi-thousand DE calculations in the optimization process can be reduced by using the proposed methodology as well as increased computational complexity to certify the accuracy of the solution obtained as a result of implemented optimization.

Abstract The article discusses about the current situation of Novel Corona Virus also called as the COVID-19 that hinder for all human’s life including the education. Rapidly escalating COVID-19, has caused havoc in quality education and every educational institution are closed. As the UNESCO report it showed that 1.6 billion children being affected due to the close of institution across 191 countries. With the alternative method every education institution started blended learning virtual classes in order to continue learning environment in students. The articles investigate COVID-19 impact on student’s quality education in Nepal and social work implication. The findings of the study shows that the COVID-19 has seriously effects on the students learning environment. It showed the huge gap between getting the good education in Nepal. However, Nepal has also made some policies to provide equal quality education to all the children through the ICT and also encourage social work to actively participate on providing education to all the majority of group children in Nepal. Whereas social work applied the micro, messo, and macro level of implication in practice to provide the education for children in remote area of Nepal.

Chronic noncommunicable diseases (CNCDs) have been a major public health concern worldwide, especially diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, in addition to obesity, which is even more worrying when the subject involves the covid-19 pandemic, because such incidences correlate with the need for intensive care units, including the possibility of death of the patient. Therefore, for countries with the highest numbers of critical cases, it is important to assess the incidence of these diseases to guide the public that most needs guidance on public policies for social isolation.

Objectives Asylum seekers in Germany represent a highly vulnerable group from a health perspective due to a variety of risk factors. At the same time their access to healthcare is restricted. While the introduction of the Electronic Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for asylum seekers instead of healthcare-vouchers is discussed controversially using politico-economic reasons, there is hardly any empirical evidence on its actual impact on the use of medical services Study design Thus, the aim of this study is to examine the influence of the possession of the EHIC on the use of medical services by asylum seekers as measured by their consultation rate of ambulant physicians (CR). For this purpose, a standardized survey was carried out to 260 asylum seekers in different municipalities of which some have introduced the EHIC for asylum seekers, while others have not. Methods Various CR were differentiated considering possible third variables as well as confounding factors. The period prevalence was compared between the groups "with EHIC" and "without EHIC" using a two-sided t-test. Multivariate analysis was done using a linear OLS regression model. Results Asylum seekers who are in possession of the EHIC are significantly more likely to seek ambulant medical care than those receiving healthcare-vouchers. Their CR, however, does not differ significantly from the age-corrected CR of the autochtonous population. Taking into account relevant covariables, the possession of the EHIC can be viewed as an independent influencing factor on the asylum seekers' use of medical care. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that having to ask for healthcare-vouchers at the social security office could be a relevant barrier for asylum seekers. Nevertheless, the ownership of the EHIC does not seem to lead to an overuse of medical services.

Ferroelectric materials are crucial for today’s technological society, and nanostructured ferroelectric materials are important for downscaling of devices. Controlled and reproducible synthesis of these materials are therefore of immense importance. Hydrothermal synthesis is a well-established synthesis route, with a large parameter space for optimization, but a better understanding of nucleation and growth mechanisms is needed for full utilization and control. Here we use in situ X-ray diffraction to follow the nucleation and growth of BaTiO₃ formed by hydrothermal synthesis using two different titanium precursors, an amorphous titania precipitate slurry and a Ti-citric acid complex solution. Sequential Rietveld refinement was used to extract the time dependency of lattice parameters, crystallite size, strain and atomic displacement parameters. Phase pure BaTiO₃ nanoparticles 10 - 15 nm in size were successfully synthesized at different temperatures (100, 125, and 150 °C) from both precursors after reaction times ranging from a few seconds, to several hours. The two precursors resulted in phase pure BaTiO₃ with similar final crystallite size. Finally, two different growth mechanisms were revealed, where the effect of surfactants present during hydrothermal synthesis is discussed as one of the key parameters.

The aroused quest to reduce the delay at interconnect level is the main urge of this paper to come across a configuration of Carbon Nanotube (CNT) bundle namely squarely packed bundle of composite CNTs. The approach, demonstrated in this paper, adapts the composite bundle to adopt for high speed Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) interconnect with technology sizing down. To reduce the delay of the proposed configuration of composite CNT bundle, the behavioral change of Resistance (R), Inductance (L) and Capacitance (C) has been observed with respect to both width of the bundle and diameter of the CNTs in the bundle. Consequently, the performance of the modified bundle configuration is compared with previously developed configuration namely squarely packed bundle of dimorphic MWCNTs in terms of propagation delay and crosstalk delay at local, semiglobal and global level interconnect. The proposed bundle configuration is ultimately enacted as better one for 32nmand 16nmtechnology node and suitable for 7nmas well.

Tungsten fibre-reinforced tungsten composites (Wf/W) have been in development to overcome the inherent brittleness of tungsten as one of the most promising candidate for the first wall and divertor armour material in a future fusion power plant. As the development of Wf/W continues, the fracture toughness of the composite is one of the main design drivers. In this contribution the efforts on size upscaling of Wf/W based on Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) is shown together with fracture mechanical tests of two different size samples of Wf/W produced by CVD. Three-point bending tests according to ASTM E399 for brittle materials were used to get a first estimation of the toughness. A provisional fracture toughness value of up to 346MPam1/2 was calculated for the as-fabricated material. As the material does not show a brittle fracture in the as-fabricated state, the J-Integral approach based on the ASTM E1820 was additionally applied for this state. A maximum value of the J-integral of 41kJ/m2 (134,8MPam1/2) was determined for the largest samples. Post mortem investigations were employed to detail the active mechanisms and crack propagation.

Titanium boride (TiB2) is a material classified as ultra-high temperature ceramics. The TiB2 structure is dominated by covalent bonds, which gives materials based on TiB2 very good mechanical and thermal properties, but also makes them difficult to sinter. Obtaining dense TiB2 polycrystals requires chemical or physical sintering activation. Carbon and molybdenum disilicide (MoSi2) were chosen as sintering activation additives. Three series of samples were made, the first with carbon additives: 0 to 4 wt.%; the second with 2.5, 5 and 10 wt.%. MoSi2 and the third with both additions of 2 wt.% carbon and 2.5, 5 and 10 wt.% MoSi2. MoSi2. On the basis of dilatometric sintering analysis, all additives were found to have a favourable effect on sinterability of TiB2, and it was determined that sintering of TiB2 with carbon addition can be carried at 2100°C and with MoSi2 and both additives at 1800°C. The polycrystals were sintered using the hot pressing technique. On the basis of the studies conducted in this work, it was found that addition of 1 wt.% of carbon allows to obtain single-phase TiB2 polycrystals of high density (>90%). The minimum MoSi2 addition required to obtain dense sinters with a cermet-like microstructure was 5 wt.%. High density was also achieved by materials containing both additives. Samples with higher MoSi2 content, i.e. 5 and 10% showed densities close to 100%. Mechanical properties such; as Young's modulus, hardness and fracture toughness (KIc) of the polycrystals and composites were similar for samples with densities exceeding 95%. The Vickers hardness was 23 to 27 GPa, the fracture toughness (KIC) was 4 to 6 MPa·m0.5 and the Young's modulus was 480 to 540 GPa. The resulting TiB2-based materials showed potential in high-temperature applications.

This study aims to formulate binary cementitious systems containing silica fume (SF) and micro quartz (MQ) to improve cementitious concrete's durability and mechanical properties. In this investigation, we examined the effects of different essential variables, such as the level of SF and MQ replacement and the ratio of the water-binder (w/b). In this study, the w/b ratios were 0.25, 0.3, 0.35, and 0.4. Replacement levels for SF were 8, 10, and 12%, while replacement levels for MQ were 5, 8, 10, 15, 25, and 35%. The porosity and permeability decreased with an increase in replacement levels, regardless of the type of fine material used or the amount of replacement. Meanwhile, the strength increased markedly with SF replacement, reaching its maximum MQ of 25% at the SF level. The strength of the SF mixing was the highest in all mixes, and it remained the highest until 15% of MQ was replaced. The ultrafine size of MQ particles contributes to the improvement of compressive strength, porosity, and permeability in a similar way to SF particles, despite their high crystalline structure. Furthermore, in this study, analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to verify the influence of each variable on the studied response.

Background: We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of postnatal ultrasonography in determining congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract in term infants with or without a history of congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract in the prenatal period. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, the records of term infants aged between six weeks and three months undergoing urinary system ultrasonography during routine child care were examined. Results: Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract was determined in 121 (4.62%) of the 2620 cases included in the study. The most common anomaly was hydronephrosis (in 69.4% of the congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract cases and 3.21% of all cases). Thirty-two of the 84 (38.1%) hydronephrosis cases detected by postnatal ultrasonography, three of the nine (33.3%) renal agenesis cases, four of the seven (57.1%) horseshoe kidneys cases, one of the four (25%) multicystic dysplastic kidney cases and two of the two (100%) duplex system cases could not be detected by prenatal ultrasonography. On the other hand, hydronephrosis was not detected at postnatal ultrasonography in 29 (1.1%) cases which detected mild or moderate hydronephrosis by prenatal ultrasonography scanning. Conclusions: In our study, it was observed that approximately one-third of the cases of hydronephrosis, unilateral renal agenesis, duplex system, horseshoe kidney, and ectopic kidney could not be detected at prenatal ultrasonography screening. We therefore believe that, in addition to prenatal ultrasonography screening, postnatal ultrasonography screening of all children for urinary tract anomalies would be beneficial.

Purpose: To clarify the mechanism of state anxiety on intertemporal decision-making, two studies were conducted to investigate the role of trait anxiety and inhibitory control. Study 1 examined the moderating effect of trait anxiety. Study 2 continued to investigate the mediating effect of inhibition control on the basis of study 1. Methods: A total of 266 Chinese college students participated. Participants’ state anxiety, trait anxiety and intertemporal decision-making were measured by questionnaires (scales) respectively. And inhibition control was evaluated by two-choice oddball paradigm. Results: The results of Study 1 indicated that state anxiety could predict intertemporal decision-making and that the moderating effect of trait anxiety on this relationship was significant. Study 2 found that inhibitory control could completely moderate the relationship between state anxiety and intertemporal decision-making and that this indirect effect was affected by trait anxiety. Conclusion: 1)Individuals with higher trait anxiety are more inclined to make more impulsive and intertemporal decisions when they have a high level of state anxiety; 2)state anxiety allows inhibitory control ability to have a further effect on intertemporal decision-making; and 3)the higher trait anxiety in individuals, the stronger mediating effect of inhibitory control on the relationship between state anxiety and intertemporal decision-making.

Building on the study by Abdullah et al. (2020), this study aims to analyze the perception of travel, especially in this context of the pandemic, when the measures are alleviated, as well as the citizens' intention and preferences for travel methods during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the study is to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on travel behavior and travel mode preferences in the example of the residents of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Five research questions were defined. A quantitative research approach was applied in this study. The data was collected through a questionnaire (online survey) distributed to respondents via e-mail and the social network Facebook. The convenience sample included 265 respondents. Descriptive analysis, as well as quantitative comparative analysis, were carried out on the collected data. The results show that the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced a change in travel behavior. The primary purpose of travel before and during the COVID-19 pandemic was social activities. The most significant change in the primary purpose of travel before and during the COVID-19 pandemic is reflected in a decrease in social activities and an increase in recreational sports activities. In contrast, other activities remained proportionally the same before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The average distance traveled for primary outdoor trips before the COVID-19 pandemic is greater than that for primary outdoor trips during the COVID-19 pandemic. This article allows for better organization and planning for the future in the event of another pandemic.

The basic constitutional freedoms and rights of a person and citizen are in principle unlimited: the full scope of their exercise is the rule, and the restriction determined by law can only be an exception based on explicit constitutional authority and the legitimate aim of the restriction determined by the Constitution. That being so, the restrictions - in addition to being based on constitutional authority and pursuing constitutional objectives - should be commensurate with the needs to achieve these objectives. This means that restrictive legal rules must be suitable for achieving the legitimate aim pursued, must not be stricter than necessary and must be balanced between the constitutionally guaranteed subjective right of the individual and the interests of society. In this scholar paper, the authors point out the economic and legal consequences of the violation of individual privacy and data protection rights caused by the public disclosure of personal data of people who, at a certain time, were obliged to self-isolate due to suspicion of Covid-19 virus infection.

An extended classification of active RC- and RLC- filters with Sallen-Key architectures, including those created in the last three years, is proposed. This makes it possible to formulate new design directions for an extended family of active RC- and RLC- Sallen-Key filters (PF, LPF, HPF, RF) for the tasks of high-speed and ultra-fast analog-to-digital signal conversion.