This paper has a twofold objective. The first aim is to present a comprehensive bibliographical analysis of journal articles and book chapters on fuzzy-random option pricing (FROP) over the WoS and SCOPUS databases. It follows PRISMA criteria and takes special care of developments in continuous time. Thus, we described the principal findings about the research streams, outlets and authors of this topic and lets us suggest further research. The second contribution is motivated by the fact that the bibliographical revision has identified a lack of developments on equilibrium models on the yield curve. This question motivates extending Vasicek’s yield curve equilibrium model to introduce fuzziness in the parameters that govern interest rate movements (speed of reversion, equilibrium short-term interest rate, and volatility). Likewise, this paper develops an empirical application on the term structure of fixed income public bonds with the highest credit rating in the Euro area.

In traditional oriental medicine, carrots (Daucus carota L.) are considered effective medicinal herbs; however, the use of D. carota leaves (DGL) as therapeutic agents has not been explored in depth. Therefore, we aimed to demonstrate the value of DGL, generally treated as waste while developing plants for wide industrial availability. Six flavone glycosides were isolated and identified from DGL, and their constituents were identified and quantitated using an NMR and HPLC/UV method, which was optimized and validated. The structure of chrysoeriol-7-rutinoside from DGL was elucidated for the first time. The method exhibited adequate relative standard deviation (<1.89%) and recovery (94.89–105.97%). The deglycosylation of DGL flavone glycosides by Viscozyme L and Pectinex was assessed. Upon converting the reaction contents to percentages, the luteolin, apigenin, and chrysoeriol groups showed values of 85.8, 33.1, and 88.7%, respectively. The enzyme-treated DGL had a higher inhibitory effect on TNF-α and IL-2 expression than that of the carrot roots or carrot leaves without enzyme treatments. These results highlight the importance of carrot leaves and could be used as baseline standardization data for commercial development.

A land cover map of two arctic catchments, nearby the Abisko Scientific Research Station, was obtained from a classification of a Sentinel-2 satellite image and a ground survey performed in July 2022. The two contiguous catchments, Miellajokka and Stordalen, are covered by various ecotypes, from boreal forest to alpine tundra and peatland. The Random Forest algorithm correctly identified 83% of polygon pixels reserved for testing. The developed workflow relied solely on open source software and acquired ground observations. Space organization was directed by the altitude as shown by the intersection of the land cover with the topography. Comparison between this new land cover map and previous ones based on data acquired between 2008 and 2011 demonstrates some trends of vegetation cover evolution in response to climate change in the considered area. The potential applications in terms of permafrost modeling (hiperborea.omp.eu) are finally discussed.

Features of nanosecond discharge development in a non-uniform electric field are studied experimentally. High spatial resolution imaging showed that thin luminous tracks of great length with a cross-section of a few microns are observed against the background of discharge glow in air and argon. It has been established that the detected tracks are adjacent to brightly luminous white spots on the electrodes or to the vicinity of these spots, and are associated with the flight of small particles. It is shown that the traces have various shapes and change from pulse to pulse. The particle tracks may look like curvy or straight lines. In some photos, they can change the direction of movement to the opposite. The particle trace was found to abruptly cut off and a bright flash is visible at the trail break point. The color of the tracks differs from that of the spark leaders, while the bands of the second positive nitrogen system dominate in the gap spectra during the existence of a diffuse discharge. Areas of blue light are evident near the electrodes, as well. Development of glow in the gap during its breakdown is revealed using an ICCD camera. Physical reasons for the observed phenomena are discussed.

Effortful control (EC) describes individual differences in self-regulation, with a strong attentional basis. Moreover, during early childhood EC has a central role on children’s socio-emotional adjustment and academic achievement. The aim of the current study was to predict the development of EC at 36 months of age from early attentional and environmental measures taken in infancy using a machine learning approach. A sample of 75 infants participated in a longitudinal study running different waves of data collection at 6, 9 and 36 months of age. Attentional tasks were administered at 6 months of age and two additional measures were collected at 9 months of age. Parents reported household environment variables during wave 1, and their child’s EC at 36 months. A machine -learning algorithm was implemented to identify children with low EC scores at 36 months of age. An “attention only” model showed greater predictive sensitivity than the “environmental only” model. However, a model including both attentional and environmental variables was able to classify the groups (Low-EC vs Average-to-High EC) with 100% accuracy. Sensitivity analyses indicate that socio-economic variables together with attention control processes at 6-months, and self-restraint capacity at 9-months, are the most important predictors of EC. Results suggest a foundational role of executive attention processes in the development of EC in complex interaction with household environment and provide a new tool to identify early markers of socio-emotional regulation development.

Study aimed to evaluate the impact of integrating family planning with maternal, newborn, and child health (FP-MNCH) on uptake of modern contraceptive methods and related health outcomes in two districts of the province of Sindh, Pakistan. Impact of intervention was evaluated using a quasi-experimental control before-after study design. Intervention included capacity building of healthcare providers and outreach workers, ensuring sustained supplies of family planning commodities, data-driven decision-making, and community engagement activities. Data was collected through household surveys at baseline (December2020) and endline (December 2022). The sample size was estimated as 880 married women of reproductive age (MWRA) in each district. The Difference and Difference(DiD) analytical method was used to estimate the impact of intervention adjusted for potential confounding factors. There was statistically significant increase of 11.3% in the current use of MCM in the intervention group compared to the control group (p value <0.001), with increases observed in the uptake of injection , implants, and condoms. Additionally, there was an increase in the proportion of women who had ANC visits (DiD 10.5% p value 0.003), FP counselling during ANC (DiD 15.6% p value < 0.001), LHW visits during pregnancy (DiD 15.1% p value 0.021), PNC check-ups for mother (DiD 25.2% p value <0.001), LHW visits after delivery (DiD 20.4% p value <0.001), and LHW advised for family planning at PNC visit n (DiD 14.5% p value 0.030). This study provides strong evidence for the scaling-up of integrated interventions through existing health care platforms utilizing human resources deployed by the government. This FP-MNCH model has the potential to be adopted in other provinces and at federally administered areas for both health and population planning. This model should be considered for replication in other districts of Sindh to accelerate current level of integration already existing.

Differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells to a range of useful, mature target cell types is ubiquitous in monolayer culture. To further improve the phenotype of the cells produced, 3D organoid culture is becoming increasingly prevalent. Mature organoids typically require the involvement of cells from multiple germ layers. The aim of this study was to produce pulmonary organoids from defined endodermal and mesodermal progenitors. Endodermal and mesodermal progenitors were differentiated from iPSCs then combined in 3D Matrigel hydrogels and differentiated for a further 14 days to produce pulmonary organoids. The organoids expressed a range of pulmonary cell markers such as SPA, SPB, SPC, AQP5 and T1α. Furthermore, organoids expressed ACE2 capable of binding SARS-Cov2 spike protein demonstrating the physiological relevance of the organoids produced. This study demonstrates the rapid production of pulmonary organoids using a multi-germ layer approach that could be used for studying novel respiratory disease interactions.

Background: Falls risk assessment tools are used in hospital inpatient settings to identify pa-tients at increased risk of falls (which may be related to muscle loss/sarcopenia) to guide and target interventions for falls prevention. In 2022, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia, intro-duced a new falls risk assessment tool, the Western Health St. Thomas’ Risk Assessment Tool (WH-STRATIFY), a modified version of The Northern Hospital’s risk tool (TNH-STRATIFY), which replaced the Peninsula Health Risk Screening Tool (PH-FRAT). Aims: To determine the predictive accuracy of three falls risk assessment tools (PH-FRAT, TNH-STRATIFY and WH-STRATIFY) on admission to Geriatric Evaluation Management (GEM) units. Method: A retrospective observational study was conducted on four GEM units. Data was col-lected on 54 consecutive patients who fell during admission and 62 randomly sampled patients who did not fall between December 2020 and June 2021. Participants were scored against three falls risk assessment tools. The event rate Youden (Youden IndexER) indices were calculated and compared using default and optimal cut points to determine which tool was most accurate for predicting falls. Results: Using default cut points to compare falls assessment tools, TNH-STRATIFY had the highest predictive accuracy (Youden IndexER = 0.20, 95% confidence interval CI = 0.07, 0.34). The PH-FRAT (Youden IndexER = 0.01 and 95% CI = -0.04, 0.05) and WH-STRATIFY (Youden IndexER = 0.00 and 95% CI = -0.04, 0.03) were statistically equivalent and not predictive of falls compared to TNH-STRATIFY. When calculated optimal cut points were applied, predictive accuracy im-proved for PH-FRAT (Cut point 17, Youden IndexER = 0.14 and 95% CI = 0.01, 0.29) and WH-STRATIFY (Cut point 7, Youden IndexER = 0.18 and 95% CI = 0.00, 0.35). Overall, all tools had low predictive accuracy for falls. Conclusion: TNH-STRATIFY had the highest predictive accuracy for falls. The predictive accu-racy of WH-STRATIFY improved and was significant when the calculated optimal cut point was applied. The optimal cut points of falls risk assessment tools should be determined and validated in different clinical settings to optimise local predictive accuracy, enabling targeted falls risk mitigation strategies and resource allocation.

Low pasture biomass production and fodder scarcity are among the major challenges affecting productivity of dairy cattle farms in Sri Lanka. As a potential solution to this, two Napier hybrid cultivars CO-5 and Sampoorna were recently introduced and a field experiment was conducted to evaluate their growth, dry matter production and nutritional composition during May to September 2020. Plant measurements and samples were collected at five harvest intervals (4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks after planting), with the plant samples subjected to biomass and nutritional assessments. The number of tillers and leaf length differed (P=0.01) between the two cultivars at 4 weeks harvesting interval (HI) whilst number of leaves differed at 12 HI respectively. Dry matter yield increased (P=0.16) almost linearly whilst crude protein declined exponentially with CO-5 greater than Sampoorna (P=0.057; 9.3% vs 8.7%), with increasing harvesting intervals respectively. In-vitro Organic Matter Digestibility and In-vitro Metabolizable Energy contents were similar across weeks 4, 6 and 8 but then decreased. This study demonstrates that higher dry matter yields (12.54 t/ha) can be obtained by harvesting both cultivars at 12 HI, but from a nutritional perspective harvesting at 6 HI during Yala season of the year would be optimum for farmers.

The use of plant growth-promoting bacteria can be one option for mitigating the impact of abiotic constraints on different cropping systems in the tropical semi-arid region. The aim of this study was to evaluate growth, leaf gas exchange and yield in maize inoculated with Bacillus aryabhattai, and subjected to water and salt stress. The experiment followed a randomised block design, in a split plot arrangement, with six repetitions. The plots comprised two levels of electrical conductivity for the irrigation water (ECw): 0.3 dS m-1 and 3.0 dS m-1; the subplots consisted of three irrigation depths (ID1: 50%, ID2: 75%, and ID3: 100% of the crop evapotranspiration (ETc)); while the sub-subplots included the presence or absence of Bacillus aryabhattai inoculant. A water deficit of 50% of the ETc resulted in the principal negative effects on growth, reducing the leaf area and stem diameter. The use of Bacillus aryabhattai mitigated salt stress and promoted better leaf gas exchange by increasing the CO2 assimilation rate, stomatal conductance, and internal CO2 concentration. However, irrigation with brackish water (3.0 dS m-1) reduced the instantaneous water use efficiency of the maize. Inoculation partially reduced the effects of abiotic stress due to morpho-physiological traits, and increased yield potential under water deficit with no salt stress.

The genus Beauveria include important entomopathogenic and endophytic fungi, among them, B. bassiana is the most studied species. However, there are few knowledge regarding their antimicrobial activity. The current research has been conducted to evaluate in vitro antibacterial efficacy of five isolates of B. bassiana against Bacillus cereus, B. megaterium, B. mojavensis, Clavibacter michiganensis (gram positive bacteria, G+ve), Xanthomonas campestris, X. vesicatoria, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and P. fluorescence (gram negative bacteria, G-ve). In addition, chemical composition of the principal diffusible metabolites and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of the most efficient studied isolate of B. bassiana has been carried out using GC-MS analysis. The obtained results showed that, the isolate UniB2439-3 has promising antibacterial effect against most of studied target bacteria. GC-MS analysis of diffusible metabolites detected the presence of hexanedioic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester as the main compound in the cell-free culture filtrate. Furthermore, GC-MS analysis of VOCs revealed the presence of ethanol; butanal,2-methyl; 2,4-dimethyl-1-heptene; octane, 4-methyl and β-elemene as the main dominant bioactive compounds. The outgoing results explicated that, the isolates of B. bassiana have promising antibacterial activity which could be correlated to their diffusible and VOCs metabolites. Therefore, the selected isolate can be potentially used as a biocontrol agent against several bacteria especially G+ve ones. Taking in consideration that the antibiotics are forbidden in agriculture in many countries worldwide, search for possible natural alternatives as efficient antimicrobial agents are highly interesting.

The TeNDER project aims to improve the Quality of Life (QoL) of chronic patients through an integrated care ecosystem. This study evaluates the Health Recommender System (HRS) developed for the project, which offers personalized recommendations based on data collected from a set of monitoring devices. The list of notifications covered different areas of daily-life such as physical activity, nutrition, and sleep. We conducted this case of study to evaluate the effectiveness and usability of the HRS in providing accurate and relevant recommendations to users. Evaluation process consisted on survey administration for QoL assessment, and the satisfaction and usability of the HRS. The four-week pilot study involved several patients and caregivers, and demonstrated that the HRS was perceived as user-friendly, consistent, and helpful, with a positive impact on patients’ QoL. However, the study highlights the need for improvement in terms of personalization of recommendations.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the mental health, adjustment, and psychological well-being of young adults. Despite extensive research conducted in this area, eudaimonic well-being, one specific form of psychological well-being focusing on self-knowledge and self-realization within existential challenges, has received comparatively less attention. The current study aimed to investigate the potential linkages between two key psychological factors, psychological inflexibility and fear of death, with eudaimonic well-being among young adults in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. One year after the outbreak, 317 young Italian adults (18-34 yrs.) participated in an online survey, including measures of psychological inflexibility (AAQ-II), fear of death (CL-FODS), and eudaimonic well-being (PWB). Results showed that psychological inflexibility was negatively associated with all the dimensions of Ryff’s model of eudaimonic well-being, while fear of death of others was found to be associated with three of these dimensions (autonomy, environmental mastery, and self-acceptance). Results also indicated a mediation role of psychological inflexibility in the association between fear of death and eudaimonic well-being. These findings expand our knowledge of the potential factors that may influence eudaimonic well-being and provide insights for clinical work with young adults challenged by uncertain times.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection triggers various events from molecular to tissue level, which in turn is given by the intrinsic characteristics of each patient. Given the molecular diversity characteristic of each cellular phenotype, the possible cytopathic, tissue and clinical effects are difficult to predict, which determines the heterogeneity of COVID-19 symptoms. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the cytopathic effects of SARS-CoV-2 on various cell types, focusing on the development of COVID-19, which in turn may lead, in some patients, to a persistence of symptoms after recovery from the disease, a condition known as long COVID. We describe the molecular mechanisms underlying virus-host interactions, including alterations in protein expression, intracellular signaling pathways, and immune responses. In particular, the article highlights the potential impact of these cytopathies on cellular function and clinical outcomes, such as immune dysregulation, neuropsychiatric disorders, and organ damage. The article concludes by discussing future directions for research and implications for the management and treatment of COVID-19 and Long-COVID.

Background: To compare the clinical efficacy of Japas osteotomy of the middle foot and first metatarsal sequence osteotomy in treating children with cavovarus foot deformity. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical effect of cavovarus foot surgery from January 2012 to January 2019. Thirty light and medium cavovarus foot cases underwent osteotomy based on soft tissue release. Among them, 16 cases of 22 feet underwent first metatarsal sequence osteotomy, and 14 cases of 21 feet underwent middle foot Japas osteotomy. Ankle-posterior foot (Wicart) scoring system was used to evaluate the good and good rates of the two surgical methods. X-ray films were taken before and after the last follow-up in a standing weight-bearing position, and Meary Angle, Hibb Angle, and Pitch Angle were measured to compare the clinical efficacy of the two surgical methods in correcting the light and medium-cavovarus foot deformity.Results: (1) All patients were followed up for an average of 30 months. There was no significant difference in Meary, Hibb, and Pitch Angle between first metatarsal osteotomy and middle foot Japas osteotomy before surgery, indicating that the severity of malformation was similar between the two groups. (2) The Meary, Hibb, and Pitch Angle of the last follow-up were compared between the two groups (P>0.05), which showed no statistical significance, indicating that the two surgical methods had similar effects on cavovarus deformity correction. (3) At the most recent follow-up, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the percentage of patients who achieved an excellent or good Wicart score; for the first metatarsal osteotomy group, the rate was 87%, and for the Japas osteotomy group was 90%; the Fisher test p>0.05 indicates that the postoperative excellent and good rates of the two treatments are comparable.II (4) Comparison of operation time and intraoperative blood loss between the two groups, P<0.05, showed statistically significant differences, indicating that the first metatarsal osteotomy had obvious advantages over Japas osteotomy operation time and intraoperative blood loss. Conclusions: There is no significant difference in postoperative efficacy between first metatarsal osteotomy and Japas osteotomy for light and medium-cavovarus with the apex of the deformity located at the medial cuneus or navicular cuneiform joint. However, the intraoperative blood loss and operative time of first metatarsal osteotomy are superior to Japas osteotomy of the middle foot, and the trauma to children is less. Therefore, the first metatarsal osteotomy can be considered a surgical procedure.

Green microalgae including those from the genus Lobosphaera are exploited in biotechnology to obtain valuable fatty acids e.g., arachidonic acid (C20:4, ARA) for the production of infant formulae, food and feed additives. In nature, microalgae frequently exist in naturally immobilized state (as biofilms) with limited cell division rate and increased stress resilience. In biotechnology, immobilization of microalgae on artificial cell carriers simplifies biomass harvesting, increases culture robustness and productivity. The choice of suitable cell carrier is central to biotechnology of immobilized culture. Cell carriers based on the natural amine-containing polymer chitosan and synthetic polyethylenimine (PEI) are promising candidates for immobilization of phototrophic microorganisms. This is the first report on the effects of immobilization on PEI and chitosan on the accumulation and composition of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including ARA, in Lobosphaera sp. IPPAS C-2047. The immobilization on PEI increased ARA percentage in the total tatty acids and ARA accumulation by 72% and 81%, compared with the suspended cells cultured respectively in complete or nitrogen-deprived medium 14 days. Immobilization of Lobosphaera sp. on the chitosan-based carrier declined ARA but increased oleic and α-linoleic acid percentages. Mechanisms of the effects of immobilization on fatty acid profiles of the microalgae are discussed.

A primary challenge facing conservationists is reconciling the human needs of forest adjacent communities with the needs of conserving forest biodiversity, especially in tropical regions with growing populations of rural poor. Agroforestry has the potential to simultaneously provide for human needs and enhance forest biodiversity, but the complex interactions and feedbacks between the social and natural dimensions are relatively undescribed and thus systematic implementation is rare. The attributes of trees on farms required for human needs and conservation value may conflict. For example, exotic species in monoculture may provide the most economic value for farmers, while relic or planted indigenous tree mixtures may be more valuable for biological conservation. The objective of this study was to explore whether agroforestry practices in a moist tropical forest ecosystem in Kenya can simultaneously provide timber and fuelwood value to small-holder farmers while extending forest tree biodiversity. We described the agroforestry attributes on farms around a tropical forest, assessed the relationship between number and biomass of timber/fuelwood trees and tree biodiversity, and explored the relationships between forest tree diversity attributes and farm tree diversity attributes on a landscape scale using spatial analysis. We found that the diversity and number of trees on farms in this area are extensive yet variable, but that no significant relationship exists between the number of timber/fuelwood trees and tree diversity. This suggests that the two values of agroforestry may not be in conflict, due mainly to the high diversity of trees used for fuelwood. We also found that trees on farms in the larger landscape add to the conservation value of forest tree biodiversity and could be important components in conservation management. If agroforestry is to play an increasingly active role in conserving biodiversity in human-dominated landscapes, particularly in areas of dense subsistence farmer populations, increase recognition needs to be given to farmer’s perception of the value of trees and their selection of what trees to plant or maintain.

Post chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (PC-RPLND) in non-seminomatous germ-cell tumours (NSTGCTs) is a complex procedure. We evaluated whether 3D computed tomography (CT) rendering and their radiomics analysis help predict resectability by junior surgeons. The ambispective analysis was performed between 2016-2021. Prospective group (A) of 30 patients undergoing CT were segmented using 3D slicer software while retrospective group (B) of 30 patients were evaluated with conventional CT (without 3D reconstruction). CatFisher’s exact test showed a p-value of 0.13 for group A and 1.0 for Group B. Difference between proportion test showed a p-value of 0.009149 (IC 0.1-0.63). Proportion of correct classification showed a p-value of 0.645 (IC 0.55-0.87) for A, and 0.275 (IC 0.11-0.43) for Group B. Furthermore, 13 shape features were extracted: elongation, flatness, volume, sphericity, surface area, among others. Performing logistic regression with the entire dataset, n=60, the results were: Accuracy: 0.7, Precision: 0.65. Using n=30 randomly chosen, the best result obtained was Accuracy: 0.73, Precision: 0.83, with a p-value: 0.025 for Fisher's exact test. In conclusion, the results showed a significant difference in the prediction of resectability with conventional CT versus 3D reconstruction by junior surgeon versus experienced surgeon. Radiomics features used to elaborate an artificial intelligence model improve the prediction of resectability. The proposed model could be of great support in a university hospital, allowing to plan the surgery and to anticipate complications.

Here we investigated the acute effects of an exhaustive intermittent exercise session on immunological parameters of the elderly and the subsequent incidence of upper respiratory tract infections and compare with the moderate-intensity. To do so, ixty-three old subjects were divided into three groups HIIT (n=21) submitted at one High-intensity interval training, SCG (n=21) kept in a sedentary state, and MICT (n=21) submitted at moderate intensity walking. Blood were collected at 5 time points, before, immediately after, 2h, 24h, and 48h after the intervention. In result the IL-6 and TNF-α were overexpressed immediately after the IL-10 stood overexpressed and correlated with IL-17, denoting an inflammatory process, and evidencing an immunologic competence without enhancement of the prevalence of upper respiratory infection tract (URTIs). So a modulation in the balance of Th1/Th2/Th17 cytokines and leukocytes, these modifications did not cause the effect characterized as an immunological window. Perhaps, the typical inflammation process, with IL-10 and IL-17 participation could also produce benefits to combat infections, a pertinent discussion during a post-pandemic time; we consider it a safe exercise program for older adults.

Background and Objectives: Mucilaginous substances from plant extracts are known to be able to support the lubricating effect of hyaluronic acid (HA) in dry eye disease (DED). In this pilot study, the combined lubricating effect of HA and mallow extract (Malva sylvestris L.) in patients with DED was assessed. Materials and Methods: 20 patients at 5 ophthalmological practices in Italy were treated with eye drops, containing HA and mallow extract on the one hand, and with eye drops containing HA only, on the other hand, in a two-period crossover design. As primary endpoints, the tear film breakup time (TBUT), the reduction of lissamine green staining of the ocular surface (Oxford Scheme, OS), and the safety and efficacy assessment by the ophthalmologists were evaluated. As secondary variables, the patient symptom score, the ocular surface index (OSDI), and the satisfaction, preference and efficacy judgement by the patients were evaluated. All data were analysed descriptively in addition to an exploratory analysis of the target variables. Results: Both products were well tolerated. There were no statistically significant differences, with regard to the TBUT, OS and OSDI, between both treatments. Anyway, the efficacy and safety assessments by the ophthalmologists and the patients showed results in favour of the combined product. Conclusion: The addition of mallow extract to HA containing eye drops enhances the treatment of DED at least with respect to subjective measurements. Further assessments will have to be done to prove and explain this observation in terms of measurable parameters, e.g. markers for inflammatory cytokines.

The flavin derivatives 10‐methyl‐isoalloxazine (MIA) and 6-fluoro-10-methyl-isoalloxazine (6F-MIA) were encapsulated in two alternative metal-organic frameworks, (MOFs) MIL53(Al) and MOF5, using a post-synthetic, diffusion-based incorporation into microcrystalline MIL-53 powders and an in-situ approach during the MOF-5 synthesis. The flavin@MOF composites were analyzed by powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD), N2-sorption studies and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy. The maximum amount of flavin dye incorporation is 3.9 wt% for MIA@MIL-53(Al) and 1.5 wt% for 6F-MIA@MIL-53(Al), 0.85 wt% for MIA@MOF-5 and 27.6 wt% for 6F-MIA@MOF-5. The emission wavelengths of all flavin@MOF composites mostly correspond to the wavelengths of the flavins in solution. Time-resolved spectroscopy showed that the fluorescence lifetime of flavin@MOF of 2-4.7 ns also corresponds to those in solution but is significantly prolonged compared to the solid flavin dyes with less than 1 ns, thereby confirming the concept of "solid solutions" for dye@MOF composites. The fluorescence quantum yield (ΦF) of the flavin@MOF composites is about half of the solution but is significantly higher compared to the solid flavin dyes. Both the fluorescence lifetime and quantum yield of flavin@MOF decrease with the flavin loading in MIL-53. Theoretical calculations using plane-wave and QM/MM methods are in good correspondence with the experimental results and explain the electronic structures as well as the photoluminescence/photophysical properties of crystalline MIA and the flavin@MOF composites. In the solids flavins π-stacking interactions of the molecules lead to a charge transfer state with low oscillator strength resulting in aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ) with low lifetimes and quantum yields. In the MOF pores the flavin molecules are separated and the computed MIA@MOF structures do not find π-stacking interactions to the pore walls but only weak van-der-Waals contacts which reasons the enhanced fluorescence lifetime and quantum yield of the flavins in the composites compared to their neat solid state. The flexible MOF MIL-53(Al) was optimized essentially to the experimental large-pore form in the guest-free state with QuantumEspresso (QE) and with MIA molecules in the pores the structure contracted to close to the experimental narrow-pore form which was also confirmed by PXRD. In summary, the incorporation of flavins in MOFs yields solid-state materials with enhanced rigidity, stabilized conformation and reduced aggregations of the flavins, leading to increased fluorescence lifetime and quantum yield as controllable photo-luminescent and photo-physical properties.

In an era of rapid technological improvements, state-of-the-art methodologies and tools dedicated to protecting and promoting our cultural heritage should be developed and extensively employed in the contemporary built environment and lifestyle. At the same time, sustainability principles underline the importance of the continuous use of historic or vernacular buildings as part of the building stock of our society. Adopting a holistic, integrated, multi-disciplinary strategy can bridge technological innovation with conserving and restoring heritage buildings. The paper presents ongoing research and results of the application of Machine Learning methods for the remote monitoring of the built environment of the historic cluster in Cypriot cities. This study is part of an integrated, multi-scale, and multi-discipline study of heritage buildings towards the creation of an online HBIM platform for urban monitoring.

Ethiopia has 74.3 million hectares of arable land and an irrigation potential of 3,088,395 hectares. Despite the country's vast irrigation potential, it hasn’t benefited much. A huge percentage of Ethiopia’s population is currently food insecure and a very significant portion lives under the national poverty line. Studies have confirmed the role of irrigation in alleviating poverty and promoting food security. Irrigation plays a huge role in poverty reduction, especially in developing countries like Ethiopia where agriculture is the backbone of the economy and the major source of employment. Irrigation does so by boosting farmer incomes, improving crop productivity, providing more employment and better pay rate, and contributing to the national GDP in the long run. Irrigation also promotes food security by contributing to all the dimensions including, food availability, access to food, food utilization, and stability. Given such importance of irrigation in poverty and hunger alleviation, it’s believed that the development of the sector massively contributes to the realization of sustainable development goals (SDG). Hence, this article voices the need for exploiting the huge irrigation potential and improving the irrigation sector, in order for the country to pull its population out of the misery of hunger and poverty.

Human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is associated with neurological, degenerative, and inflammatory diseases. Brazil has regions with high prevalence rates. The prevalence among relatives of positive people is high, and intrafamily transmission causes the conservation of the infection for different generations. The investigation of epidemiological and molecular factors may clarify the factors associated with the efficacy of intrafamilial transmission of HTLV-1. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological and molecular factors associated with intrafamilial transmission of HTLV-1 in an endemic area of Brazil. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study investigated 72 relatives from 14 families with more than one infected. Epidemiological data were collected from all family members, and genetic sequencing was performed, phylogenetic analysis of 22 positive relatives. Results: The prevalence of HTLV-1 in families with infected people was 56.94% (41/72). Twelve vertical transmission routes and ten horizontal transmission routes were identified. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated the absence of polymorphisms between infected mother and child sequences, while sequences of couples presented nucleotide divergence of up to 3%.among themselves. It was also identified in a family with an intrafamilial transmission with the occurrence of two viral strains. Conclusion: Molecular data confirmed intrafamilial transmission. They also indicated little genetic variability between the sequenced samples of family members and those deposited in GenBank used in this study. The absence of polymorphisms was observed in cases of vertical transmission, indicating a tendency to perpetuate identical sequences regardless of the time of acquisition of the infection.

Between 1942 and 1945, Jewish inmates of a forced labour camp and later Auschwitz subcamp at Blechhammer (Blachownia Śląska, Upper Silesia) worked alongside British prisoners of war on the construction site of a giant synthetic fuel facility, the Oberschlesische Hydrierwerke. The paper examines the multifaceted forms of interaction between these two groups, who were situated at the opposite ends of a spectrum ranging from high survival rates to certain death. By reframing the Jewish inmates’ perceptions of the POWs, it seeks to shed new light on a controversial debate on the nature of the relationship between them and British prisoners. The paper argues that important aspects have been missing from this debate, as the Jewish inmates were not sufficiently represented and not viewed as active protagonists. The relations between Jews and British POWs were not one-sided, but rather interdependent in complex ways. Both groups used these contacts to gain strategic information on the war and jointly contributed to the Allied resistance effort. The barter with British POWs played a crucial role in the collective and individual survival strategies of Jewish inmates, whereas the British increasingly depended on the Jewish inmates to procure basic foods when German rations ceased to be allocated. An analysis of the effects of British aid giving showed that the actual impact on the physical survival of the emaciated inmates was negligible. However, these humanitarian gestures significantly boosted their mental strength and equally helped them to cope better with post-traumatic stress disorders after the war. Altogether, the British were encouraging symbols of resistance against the Nazi regime in the eyes of the inmates. Negative experiences were rarely corroborated and were often linked to poor English language skills or a stronger identification with other nationalities.

Deficient minerals in overabundant populations could act as an attractant to cull sika deer (Cervus nippon). Because selective culling of female deer is reported to be effective in reducing sika deer populations, it is particularly important to clarify the differences in mineral requirements between male and female. Here, using global plant trait data and a published list of sika deer food plants in Japan, we estimated whether food plants provide sika deer sufficient sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg), and compared the results between male and female. An analysis of 191 food plant species suggested that food plants can provide sufficient Mg, whereas sufficient Na and Ca is not always provided, especially when the intake is small or the deer large. Na deficiency was more intense for lactating females than males, suggesting that Na can be an effective attractant for selectively culling female deer. In summary, this study demonstrated that sika deer in Japan might require extra Na and Ca sources in addition to food plants, and therefore these minerals could be useful for developing effective culling methods.

Ion channels are integral membrane proteins that facilitate the movement of ions across cell membranes, playing a key role in a range of biological processes. The high cost and time required for wet lab experiments to characterize ion channels has spurred the development of computational methods for this purpose. In our previous work, we demonstrated the effectiveness of protein language models for ion channel prediction, using a logistic regression classifier to distinguish ion channels from non-ion channels (TooT-BERT-C) and transporters from non-transporters (TooT-BERT-T). In this study, we build upon this approach by using a combination of classical machine learning classifiers and a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) with fine-tuned representations from ProtBERT, ProtBERT-BFD, and MembraneBERT to discriminate ion channels from non-ion channels. The results of our experiments demonstrate that TooT-BERT-CNN-C, a combination of the representations from ProtBERT-BFD and a CNN, outperforms existing state-of-the-art methods for predicting ion channels, with a Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) of 0.86 and an accuracy of 98.35% on an independent test set.

Japan is experiencing a super-aging society faster than is anywhere else worldwide. Consequently, extending healthy life expectancy is an urgent social issue. To understand diet that supports the extension of healthy life expectancy, we studied the relationships among quality of life (QOL: SF-36 questionnaire), physical activity (number of steps and activity calculated using an accelerometer), physical function (muscle strength, movement function, agility, static balance, dynamic balance, and walking function) and dietary intake among 469 older adults living in the Tokyo metropolitan area (65–75 years old, men/women = 166/303) from February 23, 2017, to March 31, 2018. There was a significant positive association between physical QOL and steps, moderate-intensity activity, and high-intensity activity (p &lt; 0.05), and a significant positive association (p &lt; 0.05) between physical activity and movement, static balance, and walking functions, but no association with muscle strength. These three body functions were significantly positively correlated with intake of vegetables, seeds, fruits, and milk, and with magnesium, potassium, vitamin B6, and the dietary fibre/carbohydrate ratio and composition ratios (p &lt; 0.05). Balancing food and nutrition may improve QOL in older adults through increased physical function and physical activity. Future verification of interventions is needed.

For each $t\in(-1,1)$, exact values of the least upper bounds $$ H(t)=\sup_{\E X=t,\,\E X^2=1} \frac{\E\abs{X}^3}{\E \abs{X-t}^3},\quad \sup_{\E X=t,\,\E X^2=1} \frac{L_1(X)}{L_1(X-t)} $$ are obtained, where $L_1(X)=\E|X|^3/(\E X^2)^{3/2}$ is the non-cental Lyapunov ratio. It is demonstrated that these values are attained only at two-point distributions. As a corollary, S.\,Shorgin's conjecture is proved that states that the exact value is $$ \sup\frac{L_1(X)}{L_1(X-\E X)}= \frac{\sqrt{17 + 7\sqrt7}}{4} = 1.4899\ldots, $$ where the supremum is taken over all non-degenerate distributions of the random variable $X$ with the finite third moment. Also, in terms of the central Lyapunov ratio $L_1(X-\E X)$, an analog of the Berry--Esseen inequality is proved for Poisson random sums of independent identically distributed random variables with the constant $$ 0.3031\cdot H\left(\frac{\E X}{\sqrt{\E X^2}}\right) \left(1-\frac{(\E X)^2}{\E X^2}\right)^{3/2} \le 0.3031\cdot \frac{\sqrt{17 + 7\sqrt7}}{4}<0.4517.$$ where $\Law(X)$ is the common distribution of the summands.

Cryptococcus neoformans threaten the health, causing cryptococcal meningitis and pneumonia, especially in immunosuppressed patients, which can be fatal. Recently, our research group evaluated and studied the mechanisms of action of four synthetic peptides (SP) against C. neoformans. Here, in silico and in vitro analyses help deepen understanding of peptides' mechanisms of action. The interaction of the peptides with a membrane receptor was analyzed by docking analysis, in addition to ROS overproduction and the modulation of redox metabolism, inhibition of ergosterol biosynthesis, and release of cytochrome c. Out of four, three peptides interacted with membrane receptor PHO36 altering its structure and function and leading to a higher accumulation of O₂- and H2O2. C. neoformans cells treated with SP presented a reduction in the activity of antioxidant enzymes, corroborating ROS accumulation. However, in the presence of the antioxidant ascorbic acid, some peptides could not induce this oxidative stress and have the activity against C. neoformans affected. Curiously, two of these SPs still maintained the activity against C. neoformans and even induced the membrane pore formation as revealed by propidium iodide uptake assay, revealing their mechanism of action is ROS-independent. Additionally, SPs inhibited the biosynthesis of ergosterol, which corroborates the pore formation on the membrane of C. neoformans cells, inhibited the lactate dehydrogenase activity affecting the cell metabolism, and induced the release of Cyt c from the mitochondria inducing death by apoptosis in the cryptococcal cells. Our findings strongly suggest that SPs act by multiple mechanisms, making it difficult for C. neoformans to acquire resistance highlighting the potential of SPs as alternative molecules in treating infections caused by C. neoformans.

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, location, and characteristics of new-onset chronic pain by using a new definition in long-term survivors after discharge from a tertiary emergency center. We conducted a single-center ambidirectional cohort study from January to May 2022. A survey of patients was conducted by postal mail 2-2.5 years since their discharge from a tertiary emergency center. We used the Brief Pain Inventory to investigate chronic pain parameters, and the painDETECT questionnaire to investigate neuropathic pain. Patient information during hospitalization was collected retrospectively from medical records. The survey was sent to 78 patients, 63 (81%) of whom responded and were included in the analysis. Nine of the 63 patients (14%) had new-onset chronic pain. Of these, six (67%) had chronic pain of moderate or severe intensity which interfered with daily life. The most frequent location of chronic pain was the ankle/foot (n=4, 44%). Neuropathic pain was present in four (44%) patients with new-onset chronic pain. New-onset chronic pain may occur for up to 2-2.5 years after discharge from a tertiary emergency center, and this may interfere with daily life. Therefore, a follow-up system for chronic pain is warranted.

Disorders associated with substance abuse are a major public health crisis with few treatment options. According to World Health Organization (WHO) ethanol is the most widely used drug in the world, and it represents a risk factor for the advent of disease, disability, and eventually death. Foetal Alcoholic Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is a diagnostic term to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. These effects encompass both physical, mental, behavioural and further lifelong disabilities. Besides, ethanol can harm the gut microbiota. Gut microbiome is firstly acquired from the mother and it is crucial for intestinal homeostasis during hosts’ lifetime. It is responsible for producing metabolites that benefits and protects the host from harm microbial colonization. Knowledge about the interactions between human gut microbes and the developing nervous system is still scarce. Nevertheless, animal models have shown that gut bacteria and microbial metabolites are strongly associated with Central Nervous System (CNS) homeostasis. Endotoxins such as Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are hypothesized to have a major role in neurodegeneration, however, conclusions must be taken with care due to differences in sensitivity between humans and mice. In this review we focus on the role of gut microbiota on the neurodevelopment of mice when ethanol consumption is one of the major stressors during prenatal period. We detail the range of the endotoxin hypothesis in describing endotoxins’ contribution to neurodegeneration and the influence that kynurenine pathway has on the process.

This study employs a high-fidelity numerical framework to determine the plastic material flow patterns and temperature distributions that lead to void formation during friction stir welding (FSW), and to relate the void morphologies to the underlying alloy material properties and process conditions. Three aluminum alloys, viz., 6061-T6, 7075-T6, and 5053-H18 were investigated under varying traverse speeds. The choice of aluminum alloys enables investigation of a wide range of thermal and mechanical properties. The numerical simulations were validated using experimental observations of void morphologies in these three alloys. Temperatures, plastic strain rates, and material flow patterns are considered. The key results from this study are: (1) The predicted stir zone and void morphology are in good agreement with the experimental observations, (2) The temperature and plastic strain-rate maps in the steady-state process conditions show a strong dependency on the alloy type and traverse speeds, (3) The material velocity contours provide a good insight into the material flow in the stir zone for the FSW process conditions that result in voids as well as those that do not result in voids. The numerical model and the ensuing parametric studies presented in this work provide a framework for understanding material flow under different process conditions in aluminum alloys, and potentially in other alloys. Furthermore, the utility of the numerical model for making quantitative predictions and investigating different process parameters to reduce void formation is demonstrated.

Lyme disease (LD) is a tick-transmitted infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato species which includes B. burgdorferi, B. afzelii, and B. garinii. The majority of patients with early LD can be cured by standard treatment, yet some still suffer from post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS). The presence of Borrelia persisters has been proposed as a contributing factor, which cannnot be completely killed by the currently used antibiotics for Lyme disease. Finding new pharmaceuticals targeting Borrelia persisters is crucial in developing more effective treatment. Here, we first confirmed the existence of persisters in cultures of B. garinii and B. afzelii and then conducted high-throughput screening of a custom drug library against persister-rich stationary-phase cultures of B. garinii and B. afzelii. Among 2427 compounds screened, hypocrellin A (HA), anthracycline class of drugs, and topical antibiotics along with some other natural compounds were identified to have strong potential in killing persisters of B. garinii and B. afzelii. HA was the most active anti-Borrelia compound, capable of eradicating stationary-phase Borrelia persisters, in particular when combined with doxycycline and/or ceftriaxone. Liposoluble antioxidant vitamin E was found to antagonize the activity of HA, indicating HA’s target is the cell membrane where HA-triggered reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation took place in the presence of light. HA was found to have distinct bactericidal activity against Borrelia species but had poor or no activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Identification of the above-mentioned drug candidates may help to develop more effective therapies for LD.

Cognitive function, arthrogryposis, obstetrics palsy, children, motor disorder

(1) Background: This work aimed to conduct the first comparative study providing long-term data about patient reported outcome measures as well as donor-site scar assessment and aesthetic evaluation of the reconstructed breasts in patients with DIEP versus PAP flap breast reconstruction. (2) Methods: This prospective, single-center, matched cohort study included a total of 36 patients after DIEP and PAP flap breast reconstruction. Evaluation was done using the Breast-Q and POSAS questionnaire as well as the Breast Aesthetic Scale for cosmetic analysis by four plastic surgeons. (3) Results: Post-operative Breast-Q evaluation revealed no significant differences between both patient groups for the categories physical well-being donor-site, physical well-being breast and satisfaction with the breast. Scar evaluation of the donor-site region showed equivalent results for the thigh and the abdomen concerning the overall opinion of patients and observers. There was no significant difference between both methods of reconstruction for all aspects of breast aesthetics. (4) Conclusions: Similar results of donor-site morbidity, scar quality and aesthetic outcome of the breast in both the DIEP and PAP patient group have been demonstrated. Hence, in cases suitable for both types of reconstruction, the decision can be based on factors such as patients’ lifestyle, leisure activities and preferences.

We studied the effect of annealing and the applied magnetic field from 50 Oe to 20 kOe on the magneto-structural behavior of Ni2FeSi-based Heusler microwires fabricated by using Taylor-Ulitovsky technique. Using the XRD analysis, a strong effect of annealing, manifested as the development of the crystallization process, was observed. The average grain size and crystalline phase content of annealed sample increase from 21.3 nm and 34 % to 32.8 nm and 79%, respectively, as-compared to the as-prepared one. In addition, upon annealing phase transforms into a monoclinic martensitic structure with modulation 10M were observed, which cannot be found in the as-prepared sample. Concerning the magnetic properties, both samples show ferromagnetic behavior below and above the room temperature, where the Curie temperature of Ni2FeSi is higher than room temperature. The induced secondary phases have a noticeable effect on the magnetic behavior of the annealed sample, where a high normalized saturation magnetization (NMs) and low normalized reduced remenance (Mr = M/M5K), compared to the as- prepared have been detected. Additionally, the coercivity of annealed sample shows one flipping point at 155 K where it behavior with temperature is changed. Meanwhile, the as-prepared sample show two flipped point at 205 K and 55 K. A mismatch between field cooling (FC) and field heating (FH) magnetization curves with temperature has been detected for annealed sample at low applied magnetic field. In addition the FC and FH curves shows different slopes with variation the temperature and the magnetic field. By increasing the external magnetic field higher than 200 Oe and up to 20 kOe a gradual changing in the magnetic behavior has been detected, where the mismatch and different slopes disappeared at applying magnetic field about 20 kOe. The difference in magnetic and structure behavior of Ni2FeSi microwires sample is discussed considering the effect of induced internal stresses by the presence of a glass coating and the recrystallization and stresses relaxation upon annealing.

The behaviour of the pseudo-protic ionic liquids TOAH+Cl- and TODAH+Cl- in the facilitated transport of indium(III) from HCl solutions is described. Metal transport is investigated as a function of different variables: hydrodynamic conditions, HCl concentration in the feed phase and indium and carrier concentrations. The experimental data are used to model both transport systems and to estimate diffusional parameters associated to them.

In this study, the effect of extraction conditions on the total phenolic content of clove buds was investigated. Clove buds were extracted using a deep eutectic solvents like mixtures choline chloride: lactic acid in the 1:2 molar ratio. Additionally, the HPLC-DAD method was used to determine the main components of the clove extracts, including eugenol, eugenol acetate, and β-caryophyllene. The conditions used in the extraction with choline chloride: lactic acid (molar ratio 1:2) included extraction temperature (t = 40 – 80°C), water addition (5.6 – 40%), and extraction time (30 – 90 min). Determination of the phenolic compounds was done by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The optimum operating conditions for the total phenolic content were identified at 77°C, 30 min, and a water addition of 40%. Based on the results, the highest amount of eugenol (307.26 ± 8,44 mg/g dry raw material) was determined in clove extracts which were extracted under condition of 60°C, 22.8%, and 30 min.

Objective: This study examined the impact of Japan’s state of emergency on trends in diabetes care during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Design: A descriptive and retrospective study. Setting: Showa University Hospital, Japan. Participants: Patients with diabetes who received medical treatment from 2018 to 2020. Determinants of interest: Number of patients with diabetes visiting the hospital per week. To examine the impact of the Japan’s state of emergency, the number hospital visiting by patients with diabetes was summarized from 28 weeks of data, from calendar week 8 to week 35, for each year. Results: Compared with the mean of 2018 and 2019, no significant difference was found between the three periods (before, during, and after the state of emergency). However, the numbers of patients from both inside and outside Tokyo increased at 7 weeks after the state of emergency was lifted. Conclusions: A significant increase in the numbers of patients with diabetes was seen compared with the same period in 2018 and 2019, suggesting that the state of emergency may have hindered diabetes care. Therefore, patients with diabetes should be followed up continuous of diabetes care while keeping a close eye on measures.

Due to resource constraints, most Diamond Open Access journals publish less than 25 articles per year, and 75% of journals are not able to provide their content in XML and HTML, primarily providing only PDFs (Bosman et al., 2021, p. 7-8). In order to keep up with larger commercial publishers, a high degree of automation and streamlining of processes is necessary. The Open Source Academic Publishing Suite (OS-APS) project funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research aims to achieve this. OS-APS automatically extracts the underlying XML from Word manuscripts and offers optimization and export options in various formats (PDF, HTML, EPUB). The professional corporate design, e.g., of the PDFs, is managed automatically by using templates or creating one's own using a Template Development Kit. OS-APS will also connect to scholarly-led and community-driven publishing platforms such as Open Journal Systems (OJS), Open Monograph Press (OMP), and DSpace: the software will be able to be integrated into a wide range of publication processes, whether at small, low-resource commercial Open Access Publishers, or institutional and Diamond Open Access Publishers. References: Bosman, J., Frantsvåg, J. E., Kramer, B., Langlais, P.‑C., &amp; Proudman, V. (2021). Oa Diamond Journals Study. Part 1: Findings. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4558703

Heavy Ion Beam Probing (HIBP) diagnostic is a powerful tool for electric field studies in hot dense plasma of modern day toroidal magnetic confinement devices. On the TUMAN-3M to-kamak, the HIBP have been used in regimes with improved plasma confinement to clear up the role of radial electric field in the transition to good confinement regimes. Recently, a moderni-zation of the TUMAN-3M HIBP diagnostics was performed aiming to reconfigure it for a work with a reversed plasma current direction and improvement of overall stability of the diagnostic. The results of first measurements of plasma potential in co-NBI scenario are reported and dis-cussed.

Passive and forced drinking harm was prevalent but less recognized in Chinese adolescents. We educated adolescents on such harm to reduce their intention to drink. Students (n=1244) from 7 secondary schools in Hong Kong participated in a video-based health talk on passive and forced drinking harm. Paired t-test was used to assess their change in knowledge of passive and forced drinking, health and social harm of drinking after the health talk. McNemar's chi-squared test and adjusted multivariable logistic regression (AOR) were used to assess their change in intention to drink and intention to quit. Students were less likely to drink (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.19-0.42) and more likely to quit drinking (OR 3.50, 1.10-14.6) after the health talk. Increased knowledge of passive drinking was associated with less intention to drink (AOR 0.93, 0.90-0.97), increased knowledge of health harm (adjusted b 0.06, 0.05-0.08), and social harm of drinking (adjusted b 0.12, 0.10-0.16). Similar associations were observed in forced drinking (intention to drink: AOR 0.87, 0.79-0.96; health harm: adjusted b 0.16, 0.12-0.19; social harm: adjusted b 0.36, 0.28-0.43). We showed preliminary evidence that the health talk on passive and forced drinking reduced the intention to drink in adolescents.

Study Region -This study is conducted for a cluster of watersheds within the Matagorda Basin along the south Texas coast in the United States. Study Focus - Retrospective streamflow simulations of two hydrologic models of contrasting formulations and complexity, namely the TxRR, a simple analog model, and the National Water Model (NWM), a land surface-hydrologic model that explicitly accounts for surface energy balance in calculating water budget, and whose output. The comparison was motivated by a) the need for improving the modeling of runoff dynamics for watersheds along central Texas coast through the introduction of NWM to inform freshwater inflow monitoring and flood planning, and b) the need to better understand the potential ability of the NWM to address shortcomings of TxRR related to the latter’s mechanistic deficiencies in a region known for hydroclimatic extremes. The study focuses on the temporal scale and climate dependence in the relative performance of the two models, the behaviors of models during extreme floods and droughts, and the relative efficacy of parameter transfer schemes. It further seeks to relate the performance differentials to model physics and calibration approaches. New Hydrologic Insights – NWM, with sophisticated representations of energe closure, is advantageous to TxRR in capturing low-frequency (interannual) variations in streamflow modulated by the surface energy balance, as evidenced by the superior correlation of its streamflow simulations at the interannual range. Yet, its overall performance trails behind TxRR at daily scale, and it tends to underpredict runoff volumes during two major floods. These features underscore the tendency of the model to suppress soil moisture at the onset of these events. On the other hand, TxRR outperforms in reproducing the volumes for the flooding events, but it overpredicts runoff during the extreme drought episode of 2011, likely an outcome of inadequate representation of the impacts of root zone soil moisture in regulating runoff. TxRR’s parameteralization scheme proves more effective for adaptation across watersheds due to the presence of steep gradation in soil properties .

Several observational studies have indicated the potential associations between calcium, vitamin D(Vit-D) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, the causal relationship deduced from these studies is subjected to residual confounding factors and reverse causation. Therefore, we aim to explore the bidirectional causal effects between serum calcium, Vit-D, PTH and IBS at the genetic level by a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the robustness. The estimates were presented as odds ratio (OR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The results of the inverse-variance-weighted method did not re-veal any causal relationship shared between genetically predisposed calcium (OR = 0.92, 95% CI: 0.80-1.06, P = 0.25) and Vit-D (OR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.83-1.19, P = 0.94) level and the risk of IBS. The bidirectional analysis demonstrated that genetic predisposition to IBS was associated with a de-creased level of PTH (beta: -0.19, 95%CI: -0.34 to -0.04, P = 0.01). In conclusion, the present study indicates no causal relationship between the serum calcium and Vit-D concentrations and the risk of IBS. The potential mechanisms by which IBS affects serum PTH need to be further investigated.

The current government of Bangladesh introduced a criminal tribunal namely, the International Crimes Tribunal Bangladesh (ICTB) in 2010, aiming to try and penalize the offenders of crimes against humanity committed in the Liberation War of Bangladesh in 1971. Generally, crimes against humanity are perpetrated thru a natural person, not by an intangible entity. Establishing each element of a specific criminal act is essential to prove such crimes’ guilts and punish the criminal. Hence, this study analyzes the elements of murder, extermination, and torture as the underlying offenses of crimes against humanity according to international customary law and the ICTB Statute. Firstly, this study scrutinizes the latest international customary law development and international criminal tribunals’ findings on these mentioned offenses. Secondly, this study examines whether specific requirements of such underlying offenses of crimes against humanity are being applied by the ICTB with the latest development enshrined in international criminal law and tribunals. Finally, this study examines any legal failure ascertained by the ICTB to apply elements of specific offenses of crimes against humanity that are internationally known as the established norm before proving crimes against humanity as the main international crimes. Then, this study recommends some ways forward; otherwise, the ICTB would be considered the victor's justice type of initiative to suppress the alleged perpetrators, mainly from the opposition political party of Bangladesh.

Anemia is a significant public health problem among children, especially school-age children because their body quickly produces red blood cells to provide sufficient blood volume with plasma expansion to maintain blood concentration. This research aimed to study the anemia situation, knowledge about anemia, food consumption behaviors, and the association between knowledge, food consumption behaviors, and hematocrit level among school-age children in primary school, in Thasala district, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. This is a descriptive study among 408 students, Grades 4 to 6, aged 9-12 years. Research instruments included the demographic data of the children and their knowledge about anemia, food consumption behaviors, and hematocrit assessment. Data were analyzed using descriptive, Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, and logistic regression statistics. The results revealed that 23.2% of the samples had anemia, whereas 22.22% had mild anemia and 0.98% had moderate anemia. The children knew about anemia, where the mean score was at a moderate level (Mean= 6.63; SD= 2.51) out of 10. The mean score on food consumption behaviors was in the moderate level (Mean= 17.49; SD= 3.68) out of 24. There were significantly positive correlations between the knowledge about anemia and the hematocrit level at a moderate level (r= 0.45, p< 0.001). Correlation analysis revealed moderate food consumption behaviors with the hematocrit level (r= 0.40, p< 0.001). When confirm with Logistic regression found that knowledge about anemia (OR = 9.15, 95% CI: 4.57-18.34), and food consumption behaviors (OR = 19.09, 95% CI: 9.71-37.53) were significantly associated with the hematocrit level. Conclusions: This study showed that knowledge and appropriate food consumption behaviors are associated with hematocrit levels. Enhancing knowledge about anemia and food consumption behaviors may be reduced the prevalence of anemia in school-age children. The health care providers in primary care should be encouraged children to have health education and eat sufficient food.

The absolute time and relative time are defined in terms of the 4-D Euclidean space. Our universe is the 3-D x₁x₂x₃ quantized photon space which follows the absolute time simultaneity when the universe moves along the absolute time axis of ct. The length expansion of Dx = gDx₀ is derived under the condition of the absolute time (ct) simultaneity. From the similarity between this length expansion of Dx = gDx₀ and the energy increasing of E = gE₀, it is assumed that the energy is proportional to the particle size of Dx. The extension of this assumption to the 4-D Euclidean space gives the new definition that the particle energy (E) is the 4-D volume. Then, the particle mass energy is defined as E= mc² = cDtDV = gE₀. The masses of the elementary particles are originated from the 4-D warped volume of the photon space because the particle is the warped photon space with the velocity of v < c. Therefore, the Higgs boson concept in the standard model (SM) is not needed in the present 3-D quantized space model (TQSM). The scalar boson with the spin of zero, photon with the spin of 1 and graviton with the spin of 2 are the two-boson states. Therefore, the observed Higgs boson is reinterpreted as the two-boson state of the scalar boson with the spin of zero. The cosmic muon observation and twin paradox are explained by using the absolute time and relative time. The relative time is the observed time in the twin paradox and cosmic muon observation. In the twin paradox, a person who travels the long distance is more aged than a person on the earth in terms of the relative time ages because of the space and time conversion effect (STCE effect) of the moving space distance (x). But twins are in the same ages in terms of the absolute time without STCE effect. The fast-moving cosmic muon has the expanded half-life from the time expansion of the relative time. Also, the quantum entanglement and Pauli exclusion principle are explained. The quantum base of the photon space line connects two entangled particles. Two particles and quantum base system is fluctuated along the absolute time axis by the time clicking when one particle is measured. Another particle is instantly selected by the time clicking. This is called as the quantum entanglement. The photons which are the flat photon space with the constant speed of c along the space axis and absolute time axis have the 4-D photon velocity of c_eff = 2^0.5 c. Total 10-D Euclidean space including three 3-D quantized spaces and one absolute time axis is required for the electric charges (EC), lepton charges (CC) and color charges (CC) of the elementary particles. The 3-D photon space is very stiff along the absolute time (ct) axis and very soft along the space axes. The Coulomb force through the photons (2EM waves) of the space fluctuations is much stronger than the Gravitational force through the gravitons (G waves) of the time fluctuations between two electrons.

Introduction: This study explores exposure to misinformation, COVID-19 risk perception, and confidence towards the government as predictors to negative attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out from 30 June to 30 August 2021 involving 775 respondents. The survey instrument for the questionnaire is an adaptation from various different studies consisting of five main variables: 1) misinformation about vaccination; 2) risk perception toward COVID-19; 3) attitudes toward the vaccination programme; 4) intention to get vaccinated; and 5) public confidence in the government in executing the vaccination programme. Results: The results of this study indicate that higher exposure to misinformation led to higher levels of negative attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine. When the perceived risk of COVID-19 infection was high, mistrust of vaccine benefits was low but there were also higher worries about the future effects of the vaccine. Confidence in government was associated with lower negative attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine. Conclusion: The results of this study may help develop an understanding of negative attitudes toward vaccinations in Malaysia and its contributing factors.

The paper discusses how joint damage and deterioration affect the seismic response of existing reinforced concrete frames with sub-standard beam-column joints. The available simplified modeling techniques are critically reviewed to propose a robust, yet computationally efficient technique for simulating the nonlinear behavior of substandard beam-column joints. Improvements over the existing models include simulation of the cyclic deterioration of joint stiffness and strength as well as pinching in the hysteretic response, implemented considering a deteriorating hysteretic rule. A fibre-section forced-based inelastic beam-column element is developed; considering improved material models and fixed-end rotation due to bond failure, rebars-slip and inelastic extension, to simulate the deteriorating cyclic behavior of existing pre-cracked beam-column members. For the assessment of frames with substandard exterior beam-column joints, a nonlinear model for the exterior joint is developed and validated through a full-scale quasi-static cyclic test performed on a substandard T-joint connection. The proposed model allows considering structural performance in risk assessment while accounting for true inelastic mechanisms at the joints.

The scope of this work was part of our previous research on Pulsed Power Plasma Stimulation Technique. Electromagnetic fields generated during a pulsed power plasma discharge were simulated using a finite element method in the COMSOL RF module. The field distributions were calculated during and after the pulse. The current paper takes advantage of prior work measuring and modeling the current distribution in the plasma arc. Agreement with laboratory experimental measurements provides support for extension of the model to reservoir scale. The validated model was used to quantify the signal attenuation level in different medium environment.

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally despite being a largely treatable and preventable malignancy. Developing countries account for over 80% of all new cases of cervical cancer. Women residing in low-resource settings such as those residing in slums have a higher risk of cervical cancer, and lower uptake of cervical cancer screening. Diverse barriers influence the uptake of cervical cancer screening among women in low-resource settings. Objectives: This qualitative study was carried out prior to a cervical cancer screening program and explored women’s knowledge about cervical cancer, and their perceived barriers and recommendations for the program.Method: Four focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted among 35 women between the ages of 21 – 65 years residing in two urban slums in Lagos, Nigeria. Each FGD was limited to 8-10 participants of women of similar ages. Voice recordings were transcribed verbatim and analysis was done using thematic analysis.Results: Most of the women were not aware of cervical cancer and none knew the symptoms or risk factors of cervical cancer. The participants felt that the cervical cancer screening program would be well accepted in the community, however, they expressed concerns about the cost of the screening test and the sex of the person performing the test. The recommendations proffered for a successful cervical cancer screening program include; reducing the cost of the test or providing the test free of charge, having people that speak the local language as part of the team, using female health care providers, using a private location within the community or nearby PHC, and publicizing the program with the use of SMS, phone calls, town crier, and health talks. It was recommended that organizing health education sessions would help improve women’s poorly perceived susceptibility to cervical cancer.Conclusion: Interventions to increase uptake of cervical cancer screening among women in low resource settings need to improve knowledge and understanding of cervical cancer and address the barriers to cervical cancer screening such as cost, distance, and as much as possible, sex of the healthcare provider should be considered.

Despite a rapid rise in NBS development in recent years, the methods for evaluating NBS still have certain gaps. We propose an approach based on a combination of remote sensing data and meteorological variables to reconstruct the spatio-temporal variation of net ecosystem exchange from eddy-covariance stations. Lagrangian particle dispersion model was used for upscaling of satellite images and flux towers. We trained data-driven models based on kernel methods separately for each selected land cover class. The results suggest that the proposed approach to quantifying carbon exchange on a medium-to-large scale by blending eddy covariance flux data with moderate resolution satellite and weather data provides a set of key advantages over previously deployed methods: (1) scalability, achieved via the validation design based on a separate set of eddy covariance stations; (2) high spatial and temporal resolution due to use of the Landsat imagery; (3) robust and accurate predictions due to improved data quality control, advanced machine learning techniques, and rigorous validation. The machine learning models yielded high cross-validation results. Overall we present here globally scaled technology for the land sector based on high resolution remote sensing imagery, meteorological variables, and direct carbon flux measurements of eddy covariance flux stations.

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is primary dietary source for half of the global population that comprising both essential nutrients and toxic heavy metal elements for human health. A number of nutrients are required within the diet and generally lacking in human diets, and need to biofortify into the rice grains, such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), calcium (Ca), potassium (K), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P), copper (Cu), iodine (I), selenium (Se), and Sulphur (S). Meanwhile, some elements are toxic to human, including arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), mercury (Hg), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb) which need to be eliminated from the rice grains. This article reviews the aspects of phenotypic variation of grain elemental concentration in the diverse rice genotypes, relationship of environmental conditions and rice grain elemental accumulation, correlation between rice grain elemental content and others agronomic traits, and also genetic basis of grain elemental concentration in rice. All of these aspects are important to develop rice varieties with a balanced elemental nutrients and lower toxic heavy metal elements. Enhancing the concentration of essential mineral elements and reducing the accumulation of toxic elements in the rice grain are important to improve the rice quality for human health in addressing mineral deficiency and toxicity that could be accomplished by using plant breeding, agronomic, and genetic engineering approaches.

Mesozoic-Palaeozoic marine carbonate rocks are important hydrocarbon reservoirs in the Central Uplift area of the South Yellow Sea Basin (SYSB). Due to the lack of boreholes and the great heterogeneity of carbonate reservoirs, the distribution of porous carbonate reservoirs and their related key controlling factors remain unclear. Based on seismic inversion and isotope analysis, this study explores the factors affecting the distribution of porous Carboniferous-Early Permian carbonate reservoirs in the SYSB. In this study, the log-seismic characteristics of porous carbonate reservoirs, sensitive lithology parameters, and physical property parameters are extracted and analyzed. The pre-stack simultaneous inversion technique is applied to predict the lithology properties and physical properties of the porous carbonate reservoirs. Moreover, the sedimentary of carbonate is analyzed using isotopes of carbon, oxygen, and strontium. The results indicate that porous carbonate reservoirs with porosities of 3%~5% mainly occur at the paleo-highland (Huanglong Formation and Chuanshan Formation) and the slope of paleo-highland (Hezhou Formation). The porous carbonate reservoirs of the Qixia Formation are only locally developed. In addition, the study area was dominated by a warm and humid tropical climate from the Carboniferous to Early Permian, with four sea-level eustatic fluctuation indicated by the negative and positive δ13C excursions. When the sea level fell, the study area was exposed and denuded, and the supply of terrigenous detrital was dominated, which significantly influenced the carbonate deposit and diagenesis. This study highlights that sedimentation was a key factor in controlling the quality of Carboniferous-Early Permian carbonate reservoirs. The methods proposed in this study can be used in other carbonate-dominated strata worldwide.

Most studies on vaccines of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have focused on antibody, but cellular immunities are also critical. We aimed to evaluate the immune reactions of hemodialysis (HD) patients after the administration of the booster dose from the perspective of both humoral and cellular immunities. Hemodialysis patients (HD group) and age- and sex-matched non-dialysis individuals (control group) receiving three doses of BNT162b2 vaccine were measured for anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin (IgG) and T-SPOTⓇ.COVID test (T-SPOT) before, 3 weeks, and 3 months after the booster dose. The HD group had significantly higher SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels 3 weeks and 3 months after the booster dose than the control group, although both groups had no difference in SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels before the booster dose. Moreover, the HD group had significantly higher T-SPOT levels before and 3 weeks after the booster dose than the control group, but the difference was not significantly different 3 months after the booster dose. Furthermore, the incidence rates of local and systemic adverse reactions were significantly higher in the HD group than in the control group. HD patients obtained higher SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels and SARS-COV-2-specific T-cell responses after the booster dose than control.

Breastmilk is the only recommended source of nutrition for infants below six-months of age. However, a significant proportion of children are either on supplemental breastfeeding(SBF) or weaned due to the early introduction of solid/semi-solid/soft food and liquids(SSF) before 6 months of age. There is good evidence that Exclusive Breastfeeding(EBF) in infants below six-months of age protects them from preventable illnesses, including malnutrition. The relationship between infant feeding practices and coexisting forms of malnutrition(CFM) has not yet been explored. This study examined the association of different feeding indicators(continuation of breastfeeding, predominant feeding, and SSF) and feeding practices(EBF, SBF, and complete weaning) with CFM in infants aged below six-months of age in Pakistan. National and regional datasets of Pakistan from the last ten years were retrieved from the Demographic Health Surveys(DHS) and UNICEF data repositories. In Pakistan, 34.5%(n=6131) of infants have some form of malnutrition. Among malnourished infants, 44.7%(~15.4% of the total sample) had a CFM. Continuation of breastfeeding was observed in more than 85% of infants, but less than a quarter were on EBF, and the rest were either SBF(65.4%) or weaned infants(13.7%). Compared to EBF, complete weaning increased the odds of coexistence of underweight with wasting and underweight with both wasting and stunting by 1.96(1.12-3.47) and 2.25(1.16-4.36), respectively. Overall, breastfed children had lower odds of various forms of CFM (compared to non-breastfed), except for the coexistence of stunting with overweight/obesity. Continuation of any breastfeeding protects infants in Pakistan from various types of CFM during the first six months of life.

Different soil nutrients affect plant metabolites accumulation characteristics. The main soil nutrients and their correlation with Pepino metabolites were investigated in this study to evaluate differences between greenhouses on the Loess Plateau in northwest China. A total of 269 Pepino metabolites in the fruits were identified using a UPLC-QTOF-MS approach from plants grown in three major Pepino growing regions. Their differential distribution characteristics were analyzed. 99 metabolites differed among the Pepino fruits in the three regions. The main classes of the differentially accumulated metabolites were ranked as Amino acids and derivatives, Nucleotides and derivatives, Organic acids, Alkaloids, Vitamins, Saccharides and Alcohols, Phenolic acids, Lipids, and others. Environmental factor analysis indicated that soil nutrients were the primary differentiating factor. Five soil nutrient indicators: TN（total nitrogen）, TP（total phosphorus）, AP（available phosphorus）, AK（available potassium）, and OM（organic matter）, exhibited significant differences in three growing sites. Metabolite and soil nutrient association analysis using redundancy analysis (RDA) and Mantel test indicated that TNand OM contributed to the accumulation of amino acids and derivatives, nucleotides and derivatives, and alkaloids while inhibiting organic acids, vitamins coagulation biosynthesis. Moreover, AP and TP were associated with the highest accumulation of saccharides and, alcohols, phenolic acids. Consequently, differences in soil nutrients were reflected in Pepino metabolites variability. This study clarified the metabolite variability and the relationship between Pepino and soil nutrients in the main planting areas of northwest China. It provides a theoretical basis for the subsequent development of Pepino's nutritional value and cultivation management.

Objectives: Human herpes viruses can cause life-threatening diseases in immunocompromised children, especially leukemic patients. Therefore, the aim of this study is to detect the human herpes viruses (HHV1-7) and to investigate its clinical significance in Middle Eastern Pediatric Leukemia Patients by using 2 Independent PCR assays. Methods: Detection of human herpes virus DNA has been done in blood samples of 200 pediatric leukemia patients in addition to 90 blood donors as a control group using multiplex PCR assays. When a ‘‘positive’’ result was observed, real-time PCR was performed to measure the viral load. Results: The most frequent herpes virus infection in Middle Eastern Pediatric Leukemia cases was CMV, followed by EBV, then HHV6, VZV, HHV7, HSV1, and HSV2, where they were 92/200 (46%), 76/200 (38%), 72/200 (36%), 48/200 (24%), 12/200 (6%), 8/200 (4%), and 2/200 (1%) respectively. Also, there was a statistically significance difference between leukemic patients and their controls regarding CMV, EBV, HHV6, and VZV (P <0.05). Correlation between percentage of co-infection, and clinical parameters for the 7 herpes viruses has been studied, and there is an increase in absolute neutrophilic count (ANC), total leukocyte count (TLC) and duration of fever and neutropenia in age group 6-11 years for HHV6/CMV, then in age group 12-18 years especially for EBV/CMV and CMV/HHV6. Also, our results show that multiplex PCR assay is close to single PCR assay in relation to specificity and sensitivity which in turn prove its validity for early diagnosis of herpes viral infection. Conclusions: Adopting multiplex PCR technique is helpful in screening of virus infections. It will save time, effort, cost effective and will assist in rapid diagnosis. However, the clinical relevance of the virus infection needs to be evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR which in turn will help patient's management by using appropriate antiviral treatment.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic overwhelmed health systems globally, and affected delivery of other health services. We conducted a study in Uganda to describe interventions for continuity of access to other health services. Methods: We reviewed documents and interviewed 21 key informants. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify themes using the World Health Organization health system building blocks as a guiding framework. Results: Governance strategies included establishment of coordination committees and development and dissemination of guidelines. Infrastructure and commodities strategies included review of drug supply plans and allowing emergency orders. Workforce strategies included provision of infection prevention and control equipment, recruitment and provision of incentives. Service delivery modifications included designation of facilities for COVID-19 management, patient self-management, dispensing drugs for longer periods and leveraging community patient networks to distribute medicines. However, multi-month drug dispensing led to drug stock-outs while community drug distribution was associated with stigma concerns. Conclusions: Health service maintenance during emergencies requires coordination to harness existing health system investments. The service continuity committee coordinated efforts to maintain services and should remain a critical element of emergency response. Self-management and leveraging patient networks should address stigma to support service continuity in similar settings and strengthen service delivery beyond the pandemic.

Diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) may be confounded by immunological cross-reactivity to Mycobacterium bovis antigens when animals are sensitised by certain nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTMs). Therefore, this study aimed to investigate NTM species diversity in African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) respiratory secretions and tissue samples, using a combination of novel molecular tools. Oronasal swabs were collected opportunistically from 120 immobilised buffaloes in historically bTB-free herds. In addition, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF; n=10) and tissue samples (n=19) were obtained during post-mortem examination. Mycobacterial species were identified directly from oronasal swab samples using the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra qPCR (14/120 positive) and GenoType CMdirect (104/120 positive). In addition, all samples underwent mycobacterial culture, and PCRs targeting hsp65 and rpoB were performed. Overall, 55 NTM species were identified in 36 mycobacterial culture-positive swab samples with presence of esat-6 or cfp-10 detected in 20 of 36 isolates. The predominant species were M. avium complex and M. komanii. Nontuberculous mycobacteria were also isolated from 6 of 10 culture-positive BALF and 4 of 19 culture-positive tissue samples. Our findings demonstrate that there is a high diversity of NTMs present in buffaloes, and further investigation should determine their role in confounding bTB diagnosis in this species.

This study's main target was to analyze and design rectangular edges supported two ways solid slabs by using ES EN 1992-1-1:2015. Slab design is often carried out either manually or with the use of design and analytic software. The researcher sees that some software cannot accept some countries' standard codes. For example, currently in Ethiopia analysis and design of two-way solid slab is done using readily available Excel sheet template. But working with this might have many problems, firstly the structure that is already analyzed by SAP or SAFE or any other international software application that uses international codes but which cannot design structure using ES EN 1992; for instant euro codes and designed by excel sheet can create failure and uneconomical analysis and design result. In this paper, the slab is designed and analyzed based on the chosen concrete grade, chosen reinforcement bar diameter, chosen steel grade for design and analysis of slabs calculations like load, moment, shear, and deflection checking using the moment coefficient method for analysis and design and Microsoft Visual Basic 2010 for coding. All input values are given by the International Standard units and are also used to represent output values. Using manual calculations delays time and mostly the result is not correct. But using this Computer program can increase computation accuracy and save time. The procedure the researcher followed is, first the manual calculation has been done and then SADSE2021 has been done. The result is that both are 99.9% identical, and the disadvantage of this method is that it cannot be used to determine the detailed drawing.

The Greek seas as a part of the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, have been considered as a hotspot for the entrance of non-indigenous species (NIS). Ballast water functions as a major pathway for the spread of NIS in new environments, posing significant threats to both the ecosystems and human health. Nine non-indigenous fish species, originating from the Red Sea, have been introduced to the Greek seas since 1925. Despite the implemented laws for limiting the spread of NIS and the subsequent impacts, current global environmental issues, such as climate change and micro-plastic pollution, could result in a rapid spread and establishment of NIS in hot-spot regions, including the Greek seas. A more systematic use of advanced tools for the systematic monitoring of all NIS in the Mediterranean Sea is necessary.

Reduced glutathione (GSH) is an antioxidant in plants and is one of the important ways for plants to combat low-temperature stress. In this paper, Eriobotrya japonica Lindl. cv. Zaozhong No. 6 seedlings were used to study the effects of exogenous 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) application on glutathione synthesis and cyclic metabolism of loquat seedlings under low-temperature stress and to explore the regulatory mechanism of ALA on loquat cold tolerance. The results showed that ALA treatment could increase the content of GSH and the reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio in loquat leaf slices under low-temperature stress; reduce the electrolyte leakage rate and GSSG, H₂O₂ and MDA contents in leaf tissues; and alleviate the peroxidation damage caused by low temperature. ALA treatment increased the activity of γ-glutamine synthetase (γ-ECS) in loquat leaf slices under low-temperature stress and promoted the biosynthesis of reduced glutathione, thereby increasing the GSH content in leaf tissues. On the other hand, ALA treatment could also improve the activities of glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and promote the cyclic regeneration of GSH, accordingly maintaining a high GSH/GSSG ratio, promoting the removal of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and enhancing the antioxidant capacity of leaves. The regulatory effect of ALA on enhancing the antioxidant capacity of loquat seedlings under low-temperature stress can be inhibited by L-buthionine-sulfoximine (BSO, GSH biosynthesis inhibitor). The results showed that ALA improved the antioxidant capacity of loquat seedlings under low-temperature stress, and GSH was involved in the regulation of the antioxidant effect of ALA on loquat seedlings under low-temperature stress.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are involved in the process of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling where collagens play a pivotal role. We recently demonstrated that the remodeling of adsorbed collagen type I might be disordered upon oxidation following its fate in the presence of human adipose-derived MSC (ADMSCs). With the present study, we intended to learn more about the effect of polyphenolic antioxidant Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) attempting to mimic the conditions of oxidative stress in vivo and its putative prevention by antioxidants. Collagen Type I was isolated from mouse tail tendon (MTC) and labeled with FITC before oxidizing according to Fe2+/H2O2 protocol. FITC-collagen remodeling by ADMSC was assessed morphologically before and after EGCG pretreatment and confirmed via detailed morphometry analysis measuring the anisotropy index (AI) and fluorescence intensity (FI) in selected regions of interest (ROI), namely: outside the cells; over the cells and central (nuclear perinuclear) region, whereas the pericellular proteolytic activity was measured by de-quenching of fluorescent collagen probes (FRET effect). Here we provide morphological evidence that MTC undergoes significant reorganization by the adhering ADMSC along with the substantial activation of pericellular proteolysis, and further confirm that both processes are suppressed upon collagen oxidation. An important observation was that this abrogated remodeling cannot be prevented by the EGCG pretreatment. Conversely, the detailed morphometry analysis showed that oxidized FITC-collagen rather tends to accumulate beneath the cells and around the cell’s nuclei suggesting the activation of alternative routes for its removal, such as internalization and/or transcytosis. Morphometry analysis also revealed that both processes are supported by EGCG pretreatment.

The soil-borne pathogens, particularly Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum (FON) and southern root-knot nematode (RKN, Meloidogyne incognita) are the major threat to watermelon production in the south-eastern United States. The role of soil micronutrients on induced resistance (IR) to plant diseases is well-documented in soil-based mediums. However, soil-based mediums limit the determination of the role(s) of individual micronutrients in IR. In this manuscript, we utilized hydroponics to assess the effect of controlled application of micronutrient, including iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) on the expression of some IR genes (PR1, PR5, and NPR1 from salicylic acid (SA) pathway, and VSP, PDF, and LOX genes from jasmonic acid (JA) pathway) in watermelon seedlings upon inoculation with either FON or RKN or both. Plants were treated with higher (3X) or lower (0.5X) concentrations of micronutrients in Steiner solution (X= standard dose of micronutrient) for 7 days in a hydroponics system under greenhouse conditions. A subset of micronutrient-treated plants was inoculated (on the 8th day of micronutrient application) with FON and RKN (single and mixed). The expression of the IR genes in treated and control samples were evaluated using qRT-PCR. Although, significant phenotypic differences were not observed with respect to the severity of wilt symptoms or RKN galling with any of the micro-nutrient treatments within the 30 day-experimental-period, differences in the induction of IR genes were observed. However, the level of gene expression varied with sampling period, type and concentration of micro-nutrients ap-plied, and pathogen-inoculation. In the absence of pathogens, no significant changes were observed in the expression level of IR genes on 7th day of micronutrient treatment. However, pathogen inoculation affected the expression levels of the IR genes at 3-day post-inoculation. In FON inoculated plants, PDF was upregulated in high Fe treatment, whereas in RKN inoculated plants, low Mn treatment resulted in up-regulation of VSP. In the case of mixed inoculation with FON and RKN, the plants with low Zn treatment resulted in the upregulation of PR1. These observations suggest that the type and concentration of micronutrients in watermelon may potentially induce systemic resistance against FON and RKN through SA and JA pathways.

Purpose – Extend the Blade Element Momentum Theory (BEMT) such that rotors with pronounced cone and axis angle (tilt or yaw) can be calculated. Derive an equation for the speed ratio (lambda) as a function of Tip Speed Ratio (TSR), radius, blade, cone and axis angle. This converts the BEMT into an Unsteady BEMT or UBEMT. Present the Wagner rotor as one such rotor geometry. --- Methodology – Literature review and calculations. --- Findings – The UBEMT can be used to calculate highly unconventional rotor geometries. --- Research Limitations – Although the aerodynamic coefficients used in the UBEMT are from measurements in steady flow conditions, they can be used with success. --- Practical Implications – Also conventional Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWT) with noticeable cone and axis angle should be calculated with the UBEMT. The accuracy of power calculations of these HAWTs can be slightly improved. --- Originality – Analytic equations for rotors with cone and axis angle have barely been discussed.

Objectives: The present study was performed to compare between two different fixation techniques and evaluate the histopathological changes which occur in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of the dogs after surgically induced unilateral subcondylar fracture. Methods: Twenty- One healthy beagle male dogs with a mean age of 30 months were used in the present study. One of these animals was sacrificed to study the normal histology of the dog TMJ. The rest of the animals (20 animals) were operated on to induce a displaced unilateral subcondylar fracture then, the animals were randomly equally divided into 2 groups. After surgery, 5 dogs of each group were sacrificed at 2 months after surgery (Short-Term), while the remaining 5 were sacrificed at 4 months after surgery (Long-Term). The heads were separated and fixed, oscillating saw was used to articulate the entire TMJ. Specimens were decalcified, then the specimens were washed, grossed and sectioned in a sagittal plane. Tissue sections of 4 um thick were cut and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin to be studied microscopically. Results: In group I animals, at 2 months after surgery, there was a marked hypertrophy of the articular fibrous covering of the condylar head, while at 4 months after surgery, the articular fibrous covering appeared thinner than normal, with marked decrease in thickness of the articular cartilage layer. In group II, at 2 months after plate insertion, the articular fibrous covering became hypertrophic, and the articular cartilage was markedly reduced but it was of a uniform thickness, while at 4 months after subcondylar fracture and plate fixation, no significant changes could be detected either in thickness or structure of the articular fibrous covering. Conclusion: Based on this study, it is obvious that the plate fixation group gave the most favorable results, when compared with maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) group.

Myocilin is an enigmatic glaucoma-associated glycoprotein whose biological role remains incompletely understood. To gain novel insight into its normal function, we used transposon-mediated transgenesis to generate the first zebrafish line stably overexpressing myocilin [Tg(actb1:myoc-2A-mCherry)]. qPCR showed an approximately four-fold increased myocilin expression in transgenic zebrafish embryos (144 hpf). Adult (13 months old) transgenic animals displayed variable and age-dependent ocular anterior segment alterations. Almost 60% of two-years old male, but not female, transgenic zebrafish developed enlarged eyes with severe asymmetrical and variable abnormalities in the anterior segment, characterized by corneal limbus hypertrophy, and thickening of the cornea, iris, annular ligament and lens capsule. The most severe phenotype presented small or absent ocular anterior chamber and pupils, due to iris overgrowth along with dysplastic retinal growth and optic nerve hypertrophy. Immunohistochemistry revealed increased presence of myocilin in most altered ocular tissues of adult transgenic animals, as well as signs of retinal gliosis, and expanded ganglion cells and nerve fibers. The preliminary results indicate that these cells contributed to retinal dysplasia. Visual impairment was demonstrated in all old male transgenic zebrafish. Transcriptomic analysis of the abnormal transgenic eyes identified disrupted expression of genes involved in lens, muscular and extracellular matrix activities, among other processes. In summary, the developed transgenic zebrafish provides a new tool to investigate this puzzling protein and provides evidence for the role of zebrafish myocilin in ocular anterior segment and retinal biology, through the influence of extracellular matrix organization and cellular proliferation.

Sideroflexins (SFXN) are evolutionarily conserved mitochondrial carriers belonging to the SCL56 family. Until recently, the metabolites transported by SFXN were unknown and they were thought to be transporters of a metabolite involved in iron homeostasis. SFXN1 is now known as the mitochondrial serine transporter. Because little is known about SFXN1 interactome, we launched a high-throughput search of SFXN1 binding partners with the aim to better understand its mitochondrial functions. Using a large-scale identification of SFXN1 physical partners based on co-immunoprecipitation followed by shotgun mass spectrometry (coIP-MS), we identified 96 putative SFXN1 interactants in the MCF7 human cell line. Our in-silico analysis of the SFXN1 interactome highlights biological processes linked to mitochondrial organization, electron transport chain and transmembrane transport. Among SFXN1 potential physical partners, ATAD3A and 17-HSD10, two proteins associated with neurological disorders and neurodegeneration, were further confirmed as interactants using different human cell lines. Further work will be needed to investigate the significance of these interactions in neurological disorders.

During autumn/winter in 2016 – 2017 and 2020 – 2021, highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIV) caused severe outbreaks in Germany and Europe. Multiple clade 2.3.4.4b H5 HPAI subtypes were responsible for increased mortality in wild birds and high mortality and massive losses in the poultry sector. To clarify putative entry sources and delineate interconnections between outbreaks in poultry holdings and wild birds, we applied whole-genome sequencing and phylodynamic analyses combined with the results of epidemiological outbreak investigations. Varying outbreak dynamics of the distinct reassortants allowed for the identification of individual, putatively wild bird-mediated entries into backyard holdings, several clusters comprising poultry holdings, local virus circulation for several weeks, direct farm-to-farm transmission and potential reassortment within a turkey holding with subsequent spill-over of the novel reassorted virus into the wild bird population. Whole-genome sequencing allowed for allowed for a unique high-resolution molecular epidemiology analysis of HPAIV H5Nx outbreaks, recommended to be used as a standard tool. The presented detailed account of the genetic, temporal and geographical characteristics of the recent German HPAI H5Nx situation emphasizes the role of poultry holdings as an important source of novel genetic variants and reassortants.

Across different cultures around the globe, human beings have historically depended largely on medicinal plants for managing diseases that have hitherto threatened their optimal health, survival, and longevity. Evidently, the health-derived benefits of medicinal plants can be strongly attributed to the presence of secondary metabolites, particularly polyphenols. The health-promoting effects of Sorghum bicolor supplement Jobelyn® (SBSJ) —a unique supplement derived from the leaf sheaths of a West African variety of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench—have also been ascribed to its high levels of polyphenols. This review seeks to gather and synthesize findings from various experimental and clinical studies on the health benefits of SBSJ in arthritis, cancer, chronic viral infections, stroke, anaemia, and aging. SBSJ has been reported to contain potent bioactive polyphenolic compounds with polyvalent biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, chemopreventive, and neuroprotective activities. Moreover, the probable benefits of SBSJ in chronic viral infections (e.g., HIV/AIDS and COVID-19) have been attributed to its potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. As this supplement is increasingly becoming one of the fastest-selling herbal medicines in Nigeria, there is a need for more robust studies (including clinical trials) in order to replicate and validate the prior insights gleaned from experimental studies.

Managers are often faced with the task of improving the management of the production 17process in order to maintain the sustainability of production efficiency in a highly competitive en-18vironment. The submitted contribution deals with the design of a system that will support them in 19the selection of progressive methods and technologies in order to improve the management of pro-20duction processes. Managers often follow new trends in this issue, but it is not easy to work on the 21knowledge that proven progressive technologies can bring them higher efficiency. The presented system is based on the use of knowledge of existing solutions of manufacturers of automotive components, where companies solve similar problems in production management. The mix of methods and technologies used in the management of production processes brings companies different results in the achieved efficiency. The proposed system for supporting the selection of the production management method and technology is designed from blocks of data collection, benchmarking of the performance of production processes of industrial enterprises, and further from data mining technology to obtain knowledge about the effect on efficiency from already implemented technologies. The last blocks help to examine the differences in the implementation of the same methods and technologies and allow to present the obtained results to the manager in the form of recommendations for choosing a suitable progressive method and technology.

This article describes the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method which can be calculated by several methods. The AHP method is essential for the managerial decision-making to recognize which method is efficient for the calculation and to determine the proper order of criteria. In the article there are included methods that can be used in order to calculate the matrix in the AHP process for setting criteria such as Geometric mean, Arithmetic mean, Row sum of the adjusted the Saaty matrix, Reverse sums of the Saaty matrix columns and Row sums of the Saaty matrix. The paper is focused on the accuracy of the methods used. The results show that the most accurate method is the Saaty method, and the second most accurate method is the geometric mean in order to determine the ranking. This method is easier to use when the same order is achieved as in the Saaty method, followed by Geometric mean, which is favourable for fast and easy determination of alternatives using in the AHP process. The survey carried out among managers graduated from Universities and Colleges in Slovakia showed that the respondents considered the Saaty method as the most complex and also the most difficult method and the geometric mean average method the simplest method. 44% of respondents stated that they are capable to use a program to calculate the AHP. 46% of respondents said they had experience with some method related to the managerial decision-making process. 72% of managers regarded as important to manage some method for decision-making in their managerial position.

Background: Pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments for stroke are essential but could be costly or harmful whereas probiotic has been a promising alternative. This scoping review aimed to synthesize the in vitro and in vivo evidence of probiotics on stroke-related neurological, biochemical, and histochemical outcomes. Method: We searched in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Clinical up to May 7, 2021, and screened by two independent reviewers. We included the use of probiotics, prebiotics, and symbiotics both in vitro and in vivo for the prevention or treatment of the stroke-related model. Result: Of 6,293 articles, 4,990 passed the initial screen, of which 36 theme-related full-texts were assessed and 13 were included in this review. Probiotics could ameliorate the neurological deficit and show their property as an anti-inflammation and anti-oxidative stress. Histopathologically decreased loss of cerebral volume and inhibition of neuronal apoptosis were found. Conclusion: There are potential cognitive benefits of probiotic supplementation, especially among animal models, on decreasing cerebral volume, increasing neurological score, and decreasing the inflammatory response. However, further investigation is needed to validate these conclusions in various populations.

Despite of over 20 years of community directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTI), a high prevalence of onchocerciasis and onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy were observed in rural villages in Mahenge, Tanzania. Therefore, we assessed the knowledge, attitude and practice about onchocerciasis in four rural villages in the Mahenge area. This was a qualitative study conducted between June and July 2019. Eleven focus group discussions were organized with persons with epilepsy and their caretakers, community resource persons, and community drug distributors (CDDs), and two in-depth interviews with district programme coordinators of neglected tropical diseases (NTD). Most participants were aware about symptoms of onchocerciasis using local terminologies such as “ukurutu/rough dry skin” and “kuwashwa/itching”. A small proportion of people did not take ivermectin during CDTI for fear of adverse reactions such as itching and swelling. Some men believed that ivermectin may decrease libido. Challenges for high CDTI coverage included, long walking distance by CDDs to deliver drugs to households, persons being away for farming, low awareness of the disease and limited supervision by the NTD coordinators. In conclusion, ivermectin uptake in Mahenge should be optimised by continuous advocacy about the importance of taking ivermectin to prevent onchocerciasis-associated morbidity and by improving supervision during CDTI.

The exoskeleton technology has been rapidly advancing in the recent past due to its multitude of applications and diverse use-cases in assisted living, military, healthcare, firefighting, and industry 4.0. The exoskeleton market is projected to increase by multiple times of its current value within the next two years. Therefore, it is crucial to study the degree and trends of user interest, views, opinions, perspectives, attitudes, acceptance, feedback, engagement, buying behavior, and satisfaction, towards exoskeletons, for which the availability of Big Data of conversations about exoskeletons is necessary. The Internet of Everything style of today's living, characterized by people spending more time on the internet than ever before, with a specific focus on social media platforms, holds the potential for the development of such a dataset, by the mining of relevant social media conversations. Twitter, one such social media platform, is highly popular amongst all age groups, where the topics found in the conversation paradigms include emerging technologies such as exoskeletons. To address this research challenge, this work makes two scientific contributions to this field. First, it presents an open-access dataset of about 140,000 tweets about exoskeletons that were posted in a 5-year period from May 21, 2017, to May 21, 2022. Second, based on a comprehensive review of the recent works in the fields of Big Data, Natural Language Processing, Information Retrieval, Data Mining, Pattern Recognition, and Artificial Intelligence that may be applied to relevant Twitter data for advancing research, innovation, and discovery in the field of exoskeleton research, a total of 100 Research Questions are presented for researchers to study, analyze, evaluate, ideate, and investigate based on this dataset.

Primary and middle school teachers are a critical part of China’s foundational education; teacher turnover heavily affects the stable development of foundational education. In this study, interviews with 20 teachers found that relatively low income, high work pressure, unfair distribution, and difficulty in achieving promotion to higher professional titles are the main reasons for teacher turnover intention. This study investigates 485 primary and middle school teachers from Zhejiang and Jiangsu provinces. We found that primary and middle school teachers reported intense feelings of unfairness about their distribution of income. Their salary satisfaction was low, and the ratio of turnover intention was high. The main reasons for teachers’ high turnover intentions were low income, high pressure from work, unfair distribution, and the difficulty of achieving professional title promotion. To lower teachers’ turnover intentions, China should raise teachers’ income appropriately and increase the number of teachers with high professional titles. Schools should improve procedural, distributive, and interactive justice. Teachers should adjust their income references and perceptions of fairness. This situation can be effectively resolved only if all parties work hard to make positive changes.

(1) Background: The monkeypox virus (MPV) is a double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the Poxviridae family, Chordopoxvirinae subfamily, and Or-thopoxvirus genu. It was called monkeypox because it was first discovered in monkeys, in a Danish laboratory, in 1958. However, the actual reservoir for MPV is still unknown. (2) Methods & Results: We have reviewed the existing literature on the options for Monkeypox virus. There are three available vaccines for orthopoxviruses: ACAM2000, JYNNEOS, and LC16, with the first being a replicating vaccine and the latter being non or minimally replicating. (3) Conclusions: Smallpox vaccinations previously provided coincidental im-munity to MPV. ACAM2000(a live‐attenuated replicating vaccine) and JYNNEOS (a live‐attenuated, non-replicating vaccine) are two US FDA‐approved vaccines that can prevent monkeypox. However, ACAM2000 may cause serious side effects, including cardiac problems, whereas JYNNEOS is associated with fewer com-plications. The recent outbreaks across the globe have once again highlighted the need for constant monitoring and the development of novel prophylactic and therapeutic modalities. Based on available data, there is still a need to develop an effective and safe new generation of vaccines specific for monkeypox that are killed or mRNA before monkeypox is declared a pandemic.

For a long time, physicists always directly use mathematical tools to deal with physical problems, and few people pay attention to the difference between mathematical theory and physical theory. Just like the dilemma that physicists once faced when dealing with the problem of blackbody radiation function.By analyzing the difference between the theoretical basis of mathematics and the theoretical basis of physics, this paper draws the following conclusions: (1) The theoretical basis of mathematics and the theoretical basis of physics are different, so when we use mathematical tools for physics research, we need to be very careful. (2) Finiteness and discreteness should be the basis of the whole physical theory; This paper points out that it is not advisable to use infinite " " and infinitesimal "0" without restriction and demonstration in physics, as well as the continuity of functions, which will bring a lot of trouble to physical theory.At the same time, through the analysis of Banach-Tarski paradox and Bertrand paradox, this paper proposes that if we revise the basic assumptions of probability theory: assuming that "points" have quantized sizes, and "lines" also have quantized widths. After the correction, we can not only avoid the troubles caused by Bertrand paradox, but also make probability theory better for practical application.

The likelihood of pre-hypertensive young adults developing hypertension has been steadily increasing over the past few years. Despite the fact that aerobic exercise training (AET) has demonstrated positive results in lowering high blood pressure, the efficacy of different types of AET among pre-hypertensive young adults has not been well-established. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and continuous moderate-intensity training (CMT) on blood pressure (BP) of physically inactive pre-hypertensive young adults. 32 adults (age 20.0±1.1 years and BMI 21.5±1.8) were randomly assigned into 3 groups: HIIT, CMT and control (CON). HIIT and CMT groups participated in 5 weeks of AET; while the CON group followed a DASH diet plan only. The HIIT protocol consisted of 1:4 minute work to rest ratio of participants 80%-85% heart rate reserve (HR-reserve) and 40%-60% HR-reserve respectively for 20-minutes, CMT group exercised at 40%-60% of HR-reserve continuously for 20-minutes. In both HIIT and CMT groups, systolic blood pressure (SBP) (3.8±2.8 mmHg, P=0.002 VS 1.6±1.5 mmHg, P=0.011) was significantly reduced. While, significant reductions in the diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (2.9±2.2 mmHg, P=0.002) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) (3.1±1.6mmHg, P<0.0005) were noted only in the HIIT group. No significant differences in SBP (-0.4±3.7 mmHg, P=0.718), DBP (0.4±3.4 mmHg, P=0.714), or MAP (0.1±2.5mmHg, P= 0.892) were observed in the CON group. Both HIIT and CMT decreased the BP in physically inactive pre-hypertensive young adults; however, HIIT yielded more beneficial results in terms of reducing the SPB, DBP and MAP.

Ensuring equal access to affordable higher education for women and men has become a crucial target of UNESCO’s SDG4-Education 2030. Currently, about one-third of the world's college-age population participates in higher education, while the gender disparity persists in various systems. This study employed GDP per capita, gross enrollment ratio (GER), and the gender parity index (GPI) to demonstrate how the education systems have expanded resulting in the transformation of gender parity. We selected Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and the UK as research targets using a cross-correlation function and trend analysis to detect concurrent relationships and future trends with GDP per capita, GER, and GPI. The findings suggest Japan, Korea, and the UK continue to show gender disparity and need to respond to this issue in their policy intervention for SDG4-Education 2030. The results reveal a potential problem in the UK when GPI growth might become unlimited with females dominated. This study suggests the higher education expansion phenomenon and gender diversity in mass and universal systems can be detected by the trend analysis with GDP per capita, GER, and GPI in different settings. The design of the study provides an example to explore the gender diversity patterns in higher education systems for sustainable development.

Covid-19 pandemic affected outcome in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients in majority of countries. We aimed to assess retrospectively admissions, treatments, complications and mortality of STEMI patients in the northeast of Slovenia in the first (March-May 2020) and the second wave (October-December 2020) of Covid-19 pandemic and compare them with the data from 2019 (March-October). Comparing 2019 and both waves of Covid-19 pandemic we observed nonsignificant differences in the number of STEMI admissions, in baseline characteristics, in the use of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), either within the first 3 (40.5%* vs 30.2% vs 25%*, *p = 0.074) and 6 hours, nonsignificant differences in TIMI III flow after primary PCI and in hospital complications, except for significant increase in hospital heart failure (23.3% vs 42%, p = 0.015) and mitral regurgitation in the second wave (10% vs 26.9%, p = 0.008) of the pandemic with nonsignificant increase in hospital mortality (8.9% vs 9.4% vs 13.6%) in both waves of the pandemic. We conclude, that with increased severity of Covid-19 pandemic in the second wave there was a longer delay to primary PCI in STEMI patients, resulting in significantly increased hospital heart failure and nonsignificantly increased hospital mortality

To demonstrate if botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) improves mandibular range of motion and muscle sensibility to palpation in refractory myofascial pain (MFP) patients. METHODS: Eighty consecutive female subjects with refractory MFP, were randomly divided into four equal groups (n=20): BoNT-A low (BoNTA-L/10 U in each temporalis and 30 U in each masseter), BoNT-A medium (BoNTA-M/20 U in each temporalis and 50 U in each masseter), BoNT-A high (BoNTA-H/25 U in each temporalis and 75 U in each masseter) and saline solution 0.9% (SS, placebo control group/0.4 mL in each temporalis and 0.6 mL in each masseter). Clinical measurements of the mandibular movements included: pain-free opening, maximum unassisted and assisted opening, and right and left lateral movements. Palpation tests were performed bilaterally in masseter and temporalis muscle. Results were expressed as median, minimum, maximum, and means ± standard deviation (SD). Chi-Square Test was used to compare differences among groups. A 5% probability level was considered significant in all tests RESULTS: Regardless of dose, all parameters of mandibular range of motion significantly improve after 180 days in BoNT- A groups, when compared to the control group. Pain to palpation on muscles, significantly reduced in all BoNT- A groups regardless of dose, when compared to the control group, after 28 and 180 days of treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Independent of doses, BoNT-A improved mandibular range of motion and muscle sensibility to palpation in refractory MFP patients when compared to SS injections.

Developing countries are confronted with general issues of municipal wastewater management and treatment. Untreated faecal sludges and wastewaters from septic tanks and traditional toilet are rejected into rivers and sometimes using for urban agriculture without any treatment to reduce the biorisk. Consequently, there are potential environmental and public health risks. In this study, a wastewater treatment plant prototype coupled with Moringa Oleifera seeds treatment was developed to evaluate their effectiveness for the reduction of faecal indicator bacteria and antibiotics resistant bacteria in domestic wastewater. Results indicate that our performed prototype system presents high capacity to reduce bacteria with abatements up to 99.34%. High reductions of bacteria load were obtained after add of Moringa Oleifera seeds into waters, with reductions varied from 36.6-78.8% for E. coli, 28.3-84.6% for Faecal coliform, 35.3-95.6% for Vibrio cholerae and 32.1-92.4% for total flora. Same effects of Moringa Oleifera seeds were noted for reducing antibiotic resistant bacteria, Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamases and Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae with abatements up to 98% for E. coli and faecal coliform, 100% for Vibrio cholerae and 91.96% for total flora. Our results supported high capacity of Moringa Oleifera seeds as an excellent alternative for pathogens and antibiotics resistant bacteria reduction/purification from domestic wastewater

Knowledge about one’s innate health is central to a variety of positive mental health markers. However, men living in prison rarely receive education about how to access these internal resources. As such, this study seeks to replicate and extend emerging data on an innate health intervention. Volunteers from HMP Nottingham, England (n=126) participated in normal prison programming and the intervention group (n=65) received an additional 3-day intensive. The primary question: Does innate health function as a mediator in the same way self-control does within an incarcerated population? We conducted a mediation analysis, tested social desirability bias, and examined the impact of the intervention on crucial variables. This study found higher levels of innate health, self-control, wellbeing, and prosocial behavior and lower levels of aggression in the intervention group as compared to the control group. Importantly, innate health did play a mediating role equivalent to and/or partnering with self-control.

Diabetes mellitus leads to cardiovascular complications including impaired cardiac β-adrenoceptor (β-AR) function. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, such as empagliflozin (EMPA) improve outcomes in heart failure patients and animal models thereof. Therefore, we have investigated the effects of EMPA on in vivo cardiac function (pressure-volume loop analysis) and β-AR-mediated contractile responses (papillary strips) in streptozotocin (STZ; 40 mg/kg, i.p.)-induced diabes in male Sprague Dawley rats (control, EMPA-treated control, diabetic, EMPA-treated diabetic) in a design reflecting late-onset treatment. 13-16 weeks after STZ injection treatment with a low dose of EMPA (10 mg/kg/day, daily oral gavage) or vehicle was administered for another 8 weeks. EMPA did not change cardiac function in control rats. Diabetic rats had a reduced heart rate, cardiac output, stroke work, rate of contration and rate of relaxation and increased isovolumic relaxation, whereas in vitro responses were not markedly attenuated. Treatment with EMPA showed a trend for improvement of some but not all parameters. Our results indicate that low dose EMPA treatment had limited effects on cardiac impairment despite reducing blood glucose when initiated after diabetes is manifest. Future studies with a higher dose and greater sample sizes could help to clarify the possible benefits of EMPA on the diabetic heart.

Indigenous trees have great economic potential and ecological benefits for enhancing environmental prosperity, mostly in forestry and the forest products sector in the developing countries of Sub-Sahara Africa. The baobab (Adansonia Digitata L.) is known as the African green jewel in both fruit production and medicinal benefits also remarkable for so many forest products exported across the world. Research conducted in the different Sub-Saharan African sub-regions has shown this iconic tree with a majestic outlook has a priority tree species for local and foreign use and conservation. However, data on the benefits and conservation of baobab trees in Africa, especially the Sub-Saharan countries is limited. This study aimed to assess the predominant geo-graphical distribution of the tree, the indigenous (cultural, socio-economic, ecological, and medical/health) benefits, and the conservation strategies of the baobab resources in Sub-Saharan Africa. The baobab tree's succulent roots, bulbs, branches, fruit, pods, foliage, and petals are all nourishing. Baobab parts have been used for diverse reasons in Africa, some countries of Asia, and Europe for the past two centuries due to their medicinal well-being properties. In addition, the medicinal applications of the plant parts are discussed. Many authors have highlighted the baobab tree as one of the most important trees to be saved and localized in Africa because of its high indigenous usage and commercial worth. Anthropogenic global warming may induce a drop in baobab species, which could inflict negative impacts on African economies. As a result, it's critical to research the species' likely future distribution and develop conservation policies. Literature was consulted for records and availability of this tree in the Western, Central, Eastern, and Southern African species records and it was also analyzed what percentage of the current environment would be appropriate in the future. Recent studies suggested that farmers and the locals be provided free seeds and seedlings to encourage biological rejuvenation to maximize the plant's potential, people should be informed about the additional uses of baobab that have been discovered. Individuals must also be educated on simple sustainable agroforestry activities that can be performed in plant and forest management.

The plant graft healing process is an intricate development influenced by numerous endogenous and environmental factors. This process involves the histological changes, physiological and biochemical reactions, signal transduction, and hormone exchanges in the grafting junction. Studies have shown that applying exogenous plant growth regulators can effectively promote the graft healing process and improve the quality of grafted plantlets. However, the physiological and molecular mechanism of graft healing formation remains unclear. In our present study, transcriptome changes in the melon and cucurbita genomes were analyzed between control and NAA treatment, and we provided the first view of complex networks to regulate graft healing under exogenous NAA application. The results showed that the exogenous NAA application could accelerate the graft healing process of oriental melon scion grafted onto squash rootstock through histological observation, increase the SOD, POD, PAL, and PPO activities during graft union development and enhance the contents of IAA, GA3, and ZR except for the IL stage. The DEGs were identified in the plant hormone signal-transduction, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and phenylalanine metabolism through transcriptome analysis of CK vs. NAA at the IL, CA, and VB stage by KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. Moreover, the exogenous NAA application significantly promoted the expression of genes involved in the hormone signal-transduction pathway, ROS scavenging system, and vascular bundle formation.

In the next decade, further digitalisation of the entire wind energy project lifecycle is expected to be a major driver for reducing project costs and risks. In this paper, a literature review on the challenges related to implementation of digitalisation in the wind energy industry is first carried out, showing that there is a strong need for new solutions that enable co-innovation within and between organisations. Therefore, a new collaboration method called the WeDoWind Ecosystem is developed and demonstrated. The method is centred around specific "challenges", which are defined by "challenge providers" within a topical "space" and made available to participants via a digital platform. The data required in order to solve a particular "challenge" is provided by the "challenge providers" under the confidentiality conditions they specify. The method is demonstrated via a case study, the EDP Wind Turbine Fault Detection Challenge. Six submitted solutions using diverse approaches are evaluated. Two of the methods perform significantly better than EDP’s existing method in terms of Total Prediction Costs (saving up to €120,000). The WeDoWind Ecosystem is found to be a promising solution for enabling co-innovation in wind energy, providing a number of tangible benefits for both challenge and solution providers.

Carcinoembriogenic antigen (CEA) is a routine marker for follow-up of colo-rectal cancers. We aimed to determine whether a CEA increase within the normal range can be linked to a recurrence risk. We included 78 consecutive patients with colo-rectal cancer, who underwent curative surgical treatment with or without chemo- or radiotherapy. As reference, we used the smallest value of the CEA during follow-up. A total of 34/78 patients (43.6%) had fluctuations of CEA of at least 1.1 ng/ml, with or without increases above 5 ng/ml. In 27/34 patients (79.4%) increases of CEA were explained either by recurrence (15/34 patients, 44.1%), adjuvant chemotherapy (7/34 patients, 20.6%) or benign pathology (5/34 patients, 14.7%). In 5 of 22 recurrences (23%) a CEA increase of at least 1.1 ng/ml, but below 5 ng/ml preceded the clinical relapse by a median of 8 months (range 3-22 months). The 4-year disease-free survival was 89% in patients with postoperative CEA <2.5 ng/ml, and 55% in patients with CEA >2.5 ng/ml. CEA increase by at least 1.1 ng/ml within the normal range, after curative treatment of colorectal cancer can be either an early sign of relapse or can be usually explained by other pathological processes.

This study aims to determine how the effect of interest rates and changes in the dollar exchange rate (USD) on the stock price. The type of research carried out in this research is quantitative research with the object of research, namely Bank Central Asia (BCA). The data used in this study comes from secondary data, namely from books, the internet, documents, and banking sites. This study indicates that the independent variable, namely the interest rate, has a significant negative effect on the joint-stock price index and the other independent variable, namely the dollar exchange rate (USD), has a significant positive effect on the joint-stock price index. The coefficient test results show that interest rates and exchange rates (USD) simultaneously affect stock prices, namely 67.2% while the remaining 32.8% is influenced by other factors.

LSU (RESPONSE TO LOW SULFUR) proteins belong to a plant-specific gene family initially characterized by their strong induction in response to sulfate (S) deficiency. However, little is known about the LSU gene repertoire and evolution of this family in land plants. In this work, a total of 270 LSU family members were identified using 134 land plant species with whole genome sequence available. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that LSU genes belong to a Spermatophyta-specific gene family, and their homologs are distributed in three major groups, two for dicotyledons and one group for monocotyledons. Moreover, we analyzed the expression of LSU genes in one representative species of each phylogenetic group (wheat, tomato and Arabidopsis) and found a conserved response to S-deficiency, suggesting that these genes might play a key role in S stress responses. Accordingly, Arabidopsis lsu2 knockout mutant plants showed increased levels of internal sulfate content and lower levels of expression of different key genes involved in S deficiency and metabolism like SDI2 and APR3. In summary, our results indicate that LSU genes are evolutionarily conserved in angiosperms and that specific members of this family might play an important role regulation of S transport and assimilation.

Acute kidney injury (AKI), especially if recurring represents a risk factor for future chronic kidney disease. In intensive care units, increased intraabdominal pressure is well-recognized as a significant contributor of AKI. However, the importance of transiently increased intra-abdominal pressures procedures is less commonly appreciated during laparoscopic surgery, the use of which has rapidly increased over the last few decades. Unlike the well-known autoregulation of the renal cortical circulation, medulla perfusion is modulated via partially independent regulatory mechanisms and strongly impacted by changes in venous and lymphatic pressures. In our review paper, we will provide a comprehensive overview of this evolving topic, covering a broad range from basic pathophysiology up to and including current clinical relevance. Key regulators of oxidative stress such as ischemia-reperfusion injury, the activation of inflammatory response and humoral changes interacting with procedural pneumoperitoneum formation and AKI risk will be recounted. Moreover, we present an in-depth review of the interaction of pneumoperitoneum formation with general anesthetic agents and animal models of congestive heart failure. A better understanding of the relationship between pneumoperitoneum formation and renal perfusion will support basic and clinical research, leading to improved clinical care and collaboration among specialists.

Several COVID-19 platforms have been licensed across the world thus far, but vaccine platforms research that can lead to effective antigen delivery is still ongoing. Here, we constructed AdCLD-CoV19 that could modulate humoral immunity by harboring SARS-CoV-2 antigens onto a chimeric adenovirus 5/35 platform that was effective in cellular immunity. By replacing the S1/S2 furin cleavage sequence of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) protein mounted on AdCLD-CoV19 with the linker sequence, high antigen expression was confirmed in various cell lines. The high levels of antigen expression contributed to antigen-specific antibody activity in mice and non-human primates (NHPs) with single vaccination of AdCLD-CoV19. Furthermore, the adenovirus-induced Th1 immune response was specifically raised for the S protein, and these immune responses protected the NHP against live viruses. While AdCLD-CoV19 maintained neutralizing antibody activity against various SARS-CoV-2 variants, it was reduced to single vaccination for β and ο variants, and the reduced neutralizing antibody activity was restored with booster shots. Hence, AdCLD-CoV19 can prevent SARS-CoV-2 with single vaccination, and the new vaccine administration strategy that responds to various variants can maintain the efficacy of the vaccine.

Choking and foreign body aspiration are significant causes of mortality and morbidity in young youngsters. This study aimed to investigate the effects of education programs on school students ' knowledge, attitude, and practice towards a choking person. This quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest control group design included a total of 282 school students. The students were divided into an intervention group (n = 141) and a control group (n = 141). After both groups completed the pretest, the intervention group received an education program on first aid for a choking person. Then, both groups were subjected to a posttest at the end of the program. The descriptive and inferential statistics analyzed the data. There were no significant differences between the two groups within the study parameters at the pretest (P = > 0.05). However, at posttest, a significant difference was observed in the knowledge (p = 0.001), attitude (p = 0.024), and practice (p = 0.001) of the intervention group compared to the control group. The intervention group showed significant improvement in the students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding first aid for a choking person. We suggest a continuous training program to improve the competency of first aid for a choking person.

Zika virus (ZIKV) has been characterized as one of the potential pathogens and placed under future epidemic outbreaks by the WHO. However, lack of potential therapeutics can result in uncontrolled pandemic like other human pandemic viruses; therefore, prioritized effective therapeutics development has been recommended against ZIKV. In this context, the present study adopted the strategy to explore the lead compounds from Azadirachta indica against ZIKV via concurrent inhibition of the ZIKVpro and ZIKVRdRp proteins using molecular simulations. Initially, structure-based virtual screening of 44 bioflavonoids reported in Azadirachta indica against the crystal structures of targeted ZIKV proteins resulted in the identification of top four common bioflavonoids, viz. rutin, nicotiflorin, isoquercitrin, and hyperoside. These compounds showed substantial docking energy (-7.9 to -11.01 kcal/mol) and intermolecular interactions with essential residues of ZIKVpro (His51, Asp74, and Ser135) and ZIKVRdRp (Asp540, Ile799, and Asp665) by comparison to the reference compounds, O7N inhibitor (ZIKVpro) and Sofosbuvir inhibitor (ZIKVRdRp). Long interval molecular dynamics simulation (500 ns) on the selected docked poses reveals the stability of respective docked complexes contributed by intermolecular hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. The predicted complex stability was further supported by calculated end-point binding free energy using molecular mechanics generalized born surface area (MM/GBSA) method. Consequently, the identified common bioflavonoids are recommended as promising therapeutic inhibitors of ZIKVpro and ZIKVRdRp for further experimental assessment.

This paper studies the performance improvement of the IEEE 802.15.4 nonbeacon-enabled mode originated by the inclusion of the Request-To-Send/Clear-To-Send (RTS/CTS) handshake mechanism resulting in frame concatenation. Under IEEE 802.15.4 employing RTS/CTS, the backoff procedure is not repeated for each data frame sent but only for each RTS/CTS set. The maximum throughput and minimum delay performance are mathematically derived for both the Chirp Spread Spectrum and Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum Physical layers for the 2.4 GHz band. Results show that the utilization of RTS/CTS significantly enhances the performance of IEEE 802.15.4 applied to healthcare in terms of bandwidth efficiency.

Cytochrome P450 (CYPs) is a functionally diversified third-largest gene family that exploded in the plant kingdom. Their role in different organ development has been illustrated by the intervention of phytohormone. Cotton is a model organism for cell differentiation and cell elongation. To decipher the participation of CYPs in different cotton fiber developmental stages, we identified and characterized 2460 CYPs in three diploids and two allotetraploid cottons. Furthermore, In-silico expression and cluster analysis of cotton CYPs was conducted to distinguish the fiber stage-specific clusters that have the determining role in different stages of fiber development. The subgenome expression of two conserved Gossypium hirsutum CYPs, namely, GhCYP78A197 and GhCYP78A198 contributed to fiber initiation at an early stage of fiber development, governed by the co-occurrence of TATA and MYB TFs binding sites. Coexpression network partners of these two GhCYP78A annotated as auxin, kinases, chromatin remodeler, epigenetic regulator and cyclin-related genes that possibly induce the endoreduplication and cell proliferation for fiber cell initiation to define the high yield and biomass.

Face shields (also referred to as visors), goggles and safety glasses have been worn during the COVID-19 pandemic as one measure to control transmission of the virus. However, their effectiveness in controlling facial exposure to cough droplets is not well established and standard tests for evaluating eye protection for this application are limited. A method was developed to evaluate face shields, goggles and safety glasses as a control measure to protect the wearer against cough droplets. The method uses a semi-quantitative assessment of facial droplet deposition. A cough simulator was developed to generate droplets comparable to those from a human cough. The droplets consisted of a UV fluorescent marker (fluorescein) in water. Fourteen face shields, four pairs of goggles and one pair of safety glasses were evaluated by mounting them on two different sizes of breathing manikin head and challenging them with the simulated cough. The manikin head was positioned in seven orientations relative to the cough simulator to represent various potential occupational exposure scenarios, for example, a nurse standing over a patient. Droplet deposition in the eyes, nose and mouth regions were visualised following three ‘coughs’. Face shields, goggles and safety glasses reduced, but did not eliminate exposure to the wearer from droplets such as those produced by a human cough. The level of protection differed based on the design of the personal protective equipment and the relative orientation of the wearer to the cough. For example, face shields and goggles offered the greatest protection when a cough challenge was face on or from above and the least protection when a cough challenge was from below. Face shields were also evaluated as source control to protect others from the wearer. Results suggested that if a coughing person wears a face shield, it can provide some protection from cough droplets to those standing directly in front of the wearer.