This paper investigates the influence of magnetic field for a two dimensional deformations on a two temperature problem at the free surface of a semi-infinite semiconducting medium under the effect of mechanical force during a photothermal theory and the effect of hydrostatic initial stress on the medium. The Harmonic Wave Method (Normal Mode Analysis) has been used to obtain the equations of elastic waves, heat conduction equation, quasi-static electric field, carrier density, two temperature coefficient, ratios, and constitutive relationships for the thermo-magnetic-electric medium. The effects of several parameters as thermoelastic and thermoelectric coupling parameters and two temperature parameter of this force on the displacement component, force stress, carrier density and temperature distribution has been depicted graphically.

Currently, urban renewal activities in China are booming. And promoting the renovation of public buildings is the key due to its large scale, high cost and significant impact to the nature and social environment. To reduce the ambiguity and uncertainty in evaluating the potential for renewal of existing public buildings, a renewal potential evaluation model combining game theory combination weighting method and cloud model theory is proposed. The paper constructs a comprehensive evaluation index system based on relevant standards and literature. Game theory is used to optimize the weights obtained by AHP and entropy weight methods to obtain a combined weight. MATLAB programming is used to calculate the comprehensive cloud parameters of the evaluation index for the potential renewal of existing public buildings and therefore generate cloud Graphs. Through case study in Nanjing of China, it has been demonstrated that the combination empowerment cloud model can objectively reflect the relationship between the fuzziness and randomness of evaluation indicators for public building renewal potential. The expression of cloud Graphs can intuitively reflect the magnitude of renewal and renovation potential and the degree of uncertainty in evaluation results. The research result provides useful references for the sustainable utilization of building resources in the era of building.

In the digital age, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a transformative force in various sectors, in-cluding medicine. This article explores the potential of AI, akin to the magical genie of Aladdin's lamp, particularly within thoracic surgery and lung cancer management. It examines AI applications like ma-chine learning and deep learning in achieving more precise diagnoses, preoperative risk assessment, and improved surgical outcomes. The challenges and advancements in AI integration, especially in computer vision and multi-modal models, are discussed alongside their impact on robotic surgery and operating room management. Despite its transformative potential, implementing AI in medicine faces challenges regarding data scarcity, interpretability issues, and ethical concerns. Collaboration between AI and medi-cal communities is essential to address these challenges and unlock the full potential of AI in revolution-izing clinical practice. This article underscores the importance of further research and interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure the safe and effective deployment of AI in real-world clinical settings.

The platelet count, a component of the full blood count, has been identified as a useful diagnostic marker for cancer in primary care. The reference range for the platelet count is 150 to 400 or 450 × 109/l; this range does not account for natural variation in platelet count by age and sex. This study used three primary care cohorts from England Canada, and Australia. Patients aged 40 years and over with a full blood count were included and stratified by age (in 10-year bands), sex, (male/female), and platelet count group. Cancer incidence within one year of test date was estimated from linked registry data. In all three countries there was a clear upwards trend in cancer incidence with increasing platelet count, for both sexes and at all age groups. Lung and colorectal were the most common sites. These results have important implications for the international application of this work; analysis of local health datasets will be crucial to determine appropriate thresholds. Appropriate upper thresholds will depend on local populations, healthcare needs, and priorities. Further research is needed to assess the likely impact of new recommendations on the healthcare system, on cancer outcomes, and patient benefit.

Assembly theory provides a promising framework to explain the complexity of systems such as molecular structures and the origins of life, with broad applicability across various disciplines. In this study, we explore and consolidate different aspects of assembly theory by introducing a simplified toy model to simulate the autocatalytic formation of complex structures. This model abstracts the molecular formation process, focusing on the probabilistic control of catalysis rather than the intricate interactions found in organic chemistry. We establish a connection between probabilistic catalysis events and key principles of assembly theory, particularly the probability of a possible construction path in the formation of a complex object, and examine how the assembly of complex objects is impacted by the presence of autocatalysis. Our findings suggest that autocatalysis tends to favor longer consecutive construction sequences in environments with low catalysis probability, while this bias diminishes in environments with higher catalysis probabilities, highlighting the significant influence of environmental factors on the assembly of complex structures.

This article encapsulates an exploration of seizure dynamics through the lens of computational modeling in epilepsy. Starting with a foundational understanding of the FitzHugh-Nagumo model, asimplified representation of neuronal activity, we try to understand the intricacies of epileptic seizures. We methodically demonstrated the transition from normal neuronal activity to a seizure-like state by altering key parameters in the model, such as external current and coupling strength. This was followed by an extension of the model to a network of neurons, simulating the complex interactions and synchronization patterns indicative of seizure propagation. Numerical simulations were conducted to visualize the impact of varying coupling strengths on network dynamics, offering insights into the mechanisms of seizure initiation and spread. The study was complemented by a discussion on the implications of these findings for understanding epilepsy, highlighting the bridging of theoretical models with clinical understanding. Our approach not only illuminates the potential of computational models in epilepsy research but also underscores the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing our comprehension of neurological disorders. Through this article, we aim to provide a nuanced perspective on the modeling of epileptic seizures, offering a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians in the field.

Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury (CI-AKI) remains a frequent iatrogenic condition since radiological procedures using intra-vascular iodinated contrast media (CM) are being widely administered for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Despite the improvement of the medical healthcare system worldwide, CI-AKI is still associated with direct short-term and indirect long-term outcomes including increased morbidity and mortality, specially, in patients under-lying pre-existing renal function impairment, cardiovascular disease or diabetes that could rap-idly progress into Chronic Kidney Disease. Although the RIFLE (Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss, End-Stage Kidney Disease), AKIN (Acute Kidney Injury Network) and KDIGO (Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes) clinical criteria and recommendation guidelines are based on tra-ditional “gold standard” biomarkers known as serum creatinine, glomerular filtration rate and urinary output, new reliable serum and urinary biomarkers are still needed for an effective uni-fied diagnostic strategy for AKI. Starting from previous and recent publications on the benefits and limitations of validated biomarkers responding to kidney injury, glomerular filtration and inflammation among others, this review unravels the role of new emerging biomarkers used alone or in combination, as reliable tools for early diagnosis and prognosis of CI-AKI, taking into account patients and procedures-risk factors towards a new clinical perspective.

Microbicides, topical antiseptic agents, and a revolutionary advance in HIV prevention aim to prevent the entry of infectious agents into the human body, thus stopping the sexual transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Microbicides represent the promise of a new age in preventive measures against one of the world's most pressing health challenges. In addition to their direct antiviral effects during HIV transmission, microbicides also influence vaginal mucosal immunity. This article reviews microbicides by presenting different drug classifications and highlighting significant representatives from each group. It also explains their mechanisms of action and presents information about vaginal mucosal immune responses, emphasizing the critical role they play in responding to HIV during sexual transmission. For each chemical compound, the article provides a brief overview of relevant preclinical and clinical research, emphasizing their potential as microbicides.The article offers insights into the multifaceted impact of microbicides, which signify a pivotal step forward in the pursuit of effective and accessible pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

Background: Historically, a large gender-related disparity in vascular access (AV) has been demonstrated, with a lower prevalence of women with arteriovenous fistula (AVF) compared to men and worse maturity rates. The cause of this difference is not entirely clear, although several reasons that could contribute to it have been hypothesized. The emergence of new percutaneous FAV (pFAV) systems could be an alternative for reducing these differences. Objective: The study aims to determine if there is a gender difference in the creation of AVFs using the new percutaneous systems. Material and Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted by searching PubMed and Google Scholar using the following terms: "percutaneous arteriovenous fistula", "endovascular arteriovenous fistula", and "hemodialysis". All clinical trials, comparative studies, and descriptive studies involving patients who underwent a pAVF were included. Results: Finally, the review includes 19 studies, comprising 14 retrospective and 5 prospective studies. Of these, 6 studies are comparative, 5 of which compare pAVF with surgically created AVFs (sAVF), and 1 comparing pAVFs performed using different systems with each other. A total of 1,269 patients were included in the review. Of the total number of patients, only 414 were women, representing 32.62%. Conclusion: The number of women included in the various studies analyzing pAVF remains very low, representing less than one-third of all patients. Although the causes of this difference are not entirely clear, several reasons have been hypothesized such as socio-economic factors, anatomical factors, or even patients' preferences. Given these results, further studies are needed to try to clarify the reasons for this gender disparity and to establish different strategies to mitigate the barriers faced by women in accessing the creation of an AVF.

GCTs are developmental tumors and likely to reflect ontogenetic and teratogenetic determinants. The objective was to identify syndromes with or without congenital anomalies and non-syndromic defects as potential risk factors. Patients with extracranial GCTs (eGCTs) registered in MAKEI 96/MAHO 98 between 1996 and 2017 were used. According to Teilum's holistic concept malignant and benign teratomas were registered. We used a case control study design with Orphanet as a reference group for syndromic defects and the Mainz birth registry (EUROCAT) for congenital anomalies at birth. Co-occurring genetic syndromes and/or congenital anomalies were assessed accordingly. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated and p-values for Fisher’s exact test with Bonferroni correction if needed. A strong association was confirmed for Swyer (OR 338.6, 95% CI 43.7-2623.6) and Currarino syndrome (OR 34.2, 95% CI 13.2-88.6). We additionally found 17 isolated cases of eGCT with a wide range of syndromes, however not significantly associated following Bonferroni correction. All these cases pertained to girls. Regarding non-syndromic defects, no association with eGCTs could be identified. In our study we confirmed a strong association for Swyer and Currarino syndromes with additional congenital anomalies.

Anti-interferon (IFN)-γ autoantibodies are linked to varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection. Given the elevated risks of herpes zoster (HZ) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients treated with Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi), we aimed to examine the relationship between anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies with HZ development in JAKi-treated patients. In twenty-four RA patients with new-onset HZ and forty-two without HZ, serum titers of anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies, plasma levels of IFN-γ, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and IFN-γ inducible protein-10 (IP-10) were measured by ELISA. Significantly lower MCP-1 levels were observed in patients with HZ compared to those without (median, 98.21pg/ml, interquartile range (IQR) 77.63-150.30pg/ml versus 142.3pg/ml, IQR 106.7-175.6pg/ml, p<0.05). There was no significant difference in anti-IFN-γ titers, IFN-γ levels, or IP-10 levels between patients with and without HZ. Three of 24 patients with HZ had severe HZ with multi-dermatomal involvement. Anti-IFN-γ titers were significantly higher in patients with severe HZ than in those with non-severe HZ (median 24.8ng/ml, IQR 21.0-38.2ng/ml versus 10.5ng/ml, IQR 9.9-15.0ng/ml, p<0.005). In conclusion, patients with HZ had significantly lower MCP-1 levels than those without HZ, and patients with severe HZ had significantly higher titers of anti-IFN-γ than those with non-severe HZ. Given small sample size, our results need further validation in future studies.

In this review, we have included current information on the use of photodynamic therapy in the treatment of gliomas. We mainly focused on the discussion and regarding the use of photodynamic therapy in patients with genetically determined syndromes that are associated with an increased risk of glioma. The review also uses information on genetic syndromes that are associated with an increased risk of glioma.

Background/Objectives: The use of post-operative drains in gynaecologic oncology procedures is controversial with evidence both supporting and questioning their efficacy. Proponents argue that such drains help detect complications early, reduce abscess formation, and also alleviate post-operative pain. On the other hand, drains are associated with increased risks of incisional hernia, infection, prolonged hospitalization, and postoperative pain. Methods: We conducted a research in the PubMed database and supplemented it with a manual search to retrieve addition-al papers eligible for inclusion. Results: Their use is not always found to improve outcomes, no-tably in surgeries such as a radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy, where they may actually enhance lymphocyst formation and other complications. In cytoreductive surgery for ovarian cancer, negative pressure wound therapy showed some potential benefits, but evidence remained inconclusive due to limited studies. The international guidelines presented in this re-view, suggest avoiding the routine use of drains and promote early removal when their use is necessary. Conclusions: This review aims to present an update on the current knowledge re-garding the role of drainage in gynaecologic oncology and while further good-quality research is required, particularly in high-risk surgical procedures, numerous prospective trials have exten-sively addressed the topic, trying to provide clear suggestions.

Background: Bariatric surgery (BS) has a significant impact on body composition (BC) and con-sequently may affect established sarcopenic obesity (SO) in candidate patients. The aim of this study is to assess the utility of muscle ultrasound (MUS) of rectus femoris thickness (RFT) for the evalua-tion of BC and skeletal muscle function in patients undergoing BS compared to bioimpedance analysis (BIA), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and dynamometry. On the other hand, we aim to demonstrate how MUS of RFT correlates better with the quality of life (Qol) in this population, likely because it enables the detection of regional quadriceps muscle sarcopenia, in comparison to the other mentioned methods. Methods: This is a prospective pilot study including 77 subjects (64.9% female, mean age: 53.2 ± 8.67 years) who underwent BS. Handgrip strength was measured using a dynamometer, fat-free mass index (iFFM) was assessed by BIA, appendicular muscle index (AMI) was calculated using DEXA and RFT was measured by MUS. Moreover, Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resintance (HOMA-IR) was calculated. All these measurements were conducted 1 month prior to BS and at the 12-month follow-up. QoL was as-sessed using the Moorehead-Ardelt questionnaire. Results: The mean BMI decreased by 12.95 ± 3.56 kg/m2 (p=0.001). Firstly, we observed positive correlation pre-surgery between HOMA and: RFT (r=0.27, p=0.02), iFFM (r=0.36, p=0.001), AMI (r=0.31, p=0.01) and dynamometer (r=0.26, p=0.02). In addition, we found correlation between RFT and iFFM (pre-surgical: r=0.31, p=0.01; post-surgical: r=0.25, p=0.05) and between RFT and lower extremities AMI post-surgical (r=0.27, p=0.04). Secondly, we observed significant reductions in iFFM, AMI and RFT (p=0.001), but not with dynamometer (p=0.94). Finally, a tendency to a positive correlation between QoL question-naire and RFT post-surgery (r=0.23, p=0.079) was observed. Conclusions: Our results suggest that RFT measured by MUS for the evaluation of SO and the follow-up after BS of these patients. Moreover, RFT can provide relevant information about regional sarcopenia and probably has an accurate correlation with QoL in comparison with the other methods.

Using polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement is widespread in orthopedic surgeries for implant fixation and as a carrier for antibiotic delivery to prevent and treat infections. This review comprehensively evaluates in vitro studies investigating the antibiotic elution profiles and mechanical properties of PMMA bone cement. We explore the kinetics of antibiotic release, factors influencing elution efficiency, and the impact of various antibiotics on the mechanical properties of PMMA composites. At the same time, we examine how the inclusion of antibiotics affects the mechanical integrity of PMMA, including parameters such as compressive strength, tensile strength, and fatigue resistance. Through a detailed analysis of these studies, this review aims to provide insights into optimizing PMMA bone cement formulations for enhanced therapeutic efficacy and structural performance.

Zinc cobalt oxide-zinc hydroxide (ZnCo2O4-Zn(OH)2) microspheres were successfully fabricated on carbon cloth via a sample hydrothermal method. The surface morphology of these microspheres and their efficacy in degrading methyl violet were further modulated by varying the thermal annealing temperatures. The manipulation of thermal annealing temperatures was pivotal in adjusting the porosity of ZnCo2O4-Zn(OH)2 microspheres to amplify their photocatalytic performance. Various analytical techniques were utilized to evaluate the physical and chemical properties of the ZnCo2O4-Zn(OH)2 microspheres, including field-emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, field-emission transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and UV-vis spectroscopy. Compared to untreated ZnCo2O4-Zn(OH)2 microspheres, those subjected to thermal annealing exhibited increased specific surface area and light absorption capacity, rendering them highly effective photocatalysts under UVC light exposure. Subsequent studies have confirmed the superior performance of ZnCo2O4-Zn(OH)2 microspheres as a reusable photocatalyst for degrading methyl violet and tetracycline. Additionally, trapping experiments during the photodegradation process involving ZnCo2O4-Zn(OH)2 microspheres have identified hydroxyl radicals (·OH) and superoxide radicals (·O2–) as the primary reactive species.

Using assembly theory, we investigate the assembly pathways of binary strings of length N formed by joining bits present in the assembly pool and the strings that entered the pool as a result of previous joining operations. We show that the string assembly index is bounded from below by the shortest addition chain for N, and we conjecture about the form of the upper bound. We define the degree of causation for the minimum assembly index and show that for certain N it features regularities that can be used to determine a shortest addition chain. We show that a string with the smallest assembly index for N can be assembled by a binary program of length equal to this index if the length of this string is expressible as a product of Fibonacci numbers. We conjecture that there is no binary program that has a length shorter than the length of the string having the largest assembly index for N that could assemble this string. The results confirm that four Planck areas provide a minimum information capacity that corresponds to a minimum thermodynamic (Bekenstein-Hawking) entropy. Knowing that the problem of determining the assembly index is at least NP-complete, we conjecture that this problem is NP-complete, while the problem of creating the string so that it would have a predetermined largest assembly index is NP-hard. The proof of this conjecture would imply P ≠ NP, since every computable problem and every computable solution can be encoded as a finite binary string.

This paper explores various aspects of microbiology and immunology, focusing on the epidemiology and molecular characterisation of infectious diseases in the Caribbean and South America. Key areas of investigation include tuberculosis (TB), nosocomial infections, Salmonella infections, and bloodborne pathogens. A retrospective study in Jamaica underscores the high mortality rates in HIV-positive TB patients and the need for early HIV diagnosis and integrated care. Research in Trinidad and Tobago reveals the genetic diversity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains, highlighting high HIV-TB co-infection rates. The paper also examines the challenges posed by nosocomial infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and emphasises the importance of infection control. In addition, the study investigates Salmonella prevalence in poultry in Jamaica and the risks associated with foodborne infections. The paper further explores transfusion-transmitted infections and the development of IgM antibodies in egg whites for bacterial antigen detection. Lastly, it addresses immune responses in patients with immunodeficiency disorders, such as severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), highlighting their susceptibility to a wide range of infections.

Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) represents a pivotal advancement in AI with far- reaching implications across technological, ethical, and societal domains. This paper addresses the following: (1) an in-depth assessment of AGI’s transformative potential across different sectors and its multifaceted implications, including significant financial impacts like workforce disruption, income inequality, productivity gains, and potential systemic risks; (2) an examination of critical ethical considerations, including transparency and accountability, complex ethical dilemmas and societal impact; (3) a detailed analysis of privacy, legal and policy implications, particularly in intellectual property and liability, and (4) a proposed governance framework to ensure responsible AGI development and deployment. Additionally, the paper explores and addresses AGI's political implications, including national security and potential misuse. By analyzing and considering computer science, philosophy, economics, and policy perspectives, we offer a multidisciplinary view of AGI’s challenges and opportunities, advocating for proactive measures to align AGI development with human values and societal interests.

Zinc Oxide nanoparticles functionalized with APTES were obtained to evaluate their CH4 and CO2 adsorption and separation behavior. First, ZnO nanoparticles were obtained by a precipitation method and subsequently coated with (3-aminopropyl)-triethoxysilane (APTES). The nanoparticles sample was characterized by UV-Vis, FT-IR spectroscopy, TGA, XRD, TEM/EDX, XPS and N2 adsorption at 77 K. CH4 and CO2 adsorption experiments were carried out at 298 K in a range between 0-10 bar. It was observed that the amount of gas adsorbed on the surface of the nanostructure is very small in comparison with other materials traditionally used for this purpose but slightly higher than those obtained in naked nanoparticles evaluated in previous studies.

(1) Background: Mixed Reality is a technology that has gained attention due to its unique capabilities for accessing and visualizing information, becoming a valuable tool for medicine, particularly for the operating room and surgical learning; (2) Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines to answer the research questions established using the PICO framework; (3) Results: Although implementation of Mixed Reality applications in the operations room presents some challenges, when used appropriately, it can yield remarkable results. It can make learning easier, flatten the learning curve for several procedures, and facilitate various aspects of the surgical processes; (4) Conclusion: Technical complexity, equipment costs, and steep learning curves present significant obstacles to the widespread adoption of Mixed Reality and computer-assisted evaluation. The possibility of integration of distinct medical imaging modalities and innovative functionalities holds promise for clinical applications. However, it is important to consider issues related to usability, bias, and statistical analyses need consideration. Mixed Reality offers significant benefits, but there are still open challenges such as ergonomic issues, limited field of view, and battery autonomy that must be addressed to ensure widespread acceptance.

In chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a clonal proliferative disorder of granulocytic lineage, the 90%‐95% of cases are characterized by t(9;22) (q34.1;q11.2) translocation, leading to the Philadelphia chromosome (1). Rarely, CML patients directly present a blast crisis, mostly of myeloid origin (2, 3). Herein, we describe one rare CML case, showing an unusual early T lymphoid blastic crisis.

Percutaneous vertebroplasty procedure is of major importance, given the significant increasing aging population and higher number of orthopedic procedures related to vertebral compression fractures. Vertebroplasty is a complex technique involving injection of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) into the compressed vertebral body for mechanical stabilization of the fracture. Our understanding and ability to modify these mechanisms through alterations in cement material is rapidly evolving. However, the rate of cardiac complications secondary to PMMA injection and subsequent cement leakage has increased with time. The following review considers the main features of PMMA bone cement on the heart, and the extent of influence of materials on cardiac embolism. Clinically, cement leakage results in life-threatening cardiac injury. The convolution of this outcome through an appropriate balance of complex material properties is highlighted via clinical case report.

Gc protein-derived Macrophage Activating Factor (GcMAF), a powerful immunostimulant endowed with anti-cancer and anti-angiogenetic activities, offers significant advantages when combined with radiation therapy. A stronger immune response improves the effectiveness of radiation therapy by allowing the body to better eliminate residual cancer cells after treatment. In addition, by boosting the immune system, GcMAF mitigates some of the immunosuppressive side effects of radiation therapy, leading to faster recovery. In order to fully exploit the potential of GcMAF in cancer therapy, knowledge of the molecular interactions with its receptor is essential. This study proposes the first extracellular domain (residues 1-34) of the CCR1 protein as the GcMAF receptor. The CCR1 gene, expressed in monocytes and 168 other cell types or tissues, encodes this transmembrane protein. Electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions, along with hydrogen bonds mediate the molecular interactions between the TPT^420-GalNAcELAK (or TPK⁴²⁰ELAK) sequences of GcMAF (or Gc2 protein variant) and the TTEDYDTTT sequence of its receptor.

Introduction: Anemia and undernutrition are severe public health concerns in Ethiopia. These are the two most common nutritional disorders in pregnant women and frequently co-exist. However, to the best of our knowledge, the evidence is lacking on the co-existence of anemia and undernutrition among pregnant women. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the prevalence of co-existing anemia and undernutrition (CAU) and associated factors among pregnant women. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 1–25, 2024, on a sample of 515 pregnant women in the Hawela Lida district of Sidama region, Ethiopia. We utilized a multi-stage sampling method to choose eligible study participants. A pre-tested and structured questionnaire was used to collect data via the online Open Data Kit mobile tool. We controlled the effect of confounders and clustering by using a multi-level mixed-effect modified Poisson regression analysis model. Result: The prevalence of CAU among pregnant women was 25.4% (95% CI: 21.9–28.9). The prevalence of CAU was associated with household food insecurity (adjusted prevalence ratio [APR]: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.43–3.28), training on model family (APR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.45-0.96), inadequate dietary diversity (APR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.18–1.95), and having poor knowledge of nutrition (APR: 1.55; 95% CI: 1.06-2.26) at individual levels. Low community-level women’s autonomy (APR: 6.19; 95% CI: 3.42-11.22) and community-level road accessibility (APR: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.43-0.98) were the identified determinants of CAU at the community level. Conclusion: One in four pregnant women was CAU in the study area. Household food insecurity, receiving model family training, inadequate dietary diversity, having poor knowledge of nutrition, low community-level women’s autonomy, and community-level road accessibility were the significant determinants of CAU. Therefore, inter-sectorial collaboration should be required to comprehensively address the determinants of CAU at different levels. Besides, any CAU prevention and intervention programs should provide model family training specifically targeting women who have poor nutritional knowledge and a low level of autonomy in health care decision-making.

The susceptible-infected-recovered-vaccinated-deceased (SIRVD) epidemic compartment model extends the SIR model to include the effects of vaccination campaigns and time-dependent fatality rates on epidemic outbreaks. It encompasses the SIR, SIRV, SIRD, and SI models as special cases, with individual time-dependent rates governing transitions between different fractions. We investigate a special class of exact solutions and accurate analytical approximations for the SIRVD and SIRD compartment models. While the SIRVD and SIRD equations pose complex integro-differential equations for the rate of new infections and the fractions as a function of time, a simpler approach considers determining equations for the sum of ratios for given variations. This approach enables us to derive fully exact analytical solutions for the SIRVD and SIRD models. For nonlinear models with a high-dimensional parameter space, such as the SIRVD and SIRD models, analytical solutions, exact or accurately approximative, are of high importance and interest: not only as suitable benchmarks for numerical codes, but especially as they allow us to understand the critical behavior of epidemic outbursts as well as the decisive role of certain parameters. In the second part of our study, we apply a recently developed analytical approximation for the SIR and SIRV models to the more general SIRVD model. This approximation offers accurate analytical expressions for epidemic quantities, such as the rate of new infections and the fraction of infected persons, particularly when the cumulative fraction of infections is small. The distinction between recovered and deceased individuals in the SIRVD model affects the calculation of the death rate, which is proportional to the infected fraction in the SIRVD/SIRD cases but often proportional to the rate of new infections in many SIR models using a posteriori approach. We demonstrate that the temporal dependence of the infected fraction and the rate of new infections differs when considering the effects of vaccinations and when the real-time dependence of fatality and recovery rates diverge. These differences are highlighted for stationary ratios and gradually decreasing fatality rates. \Revised{The case of stationary ratios allows one to construct a new powerful diagnostics method to extract analytically all SIRVD model parameters from measured COVID-19 data of a completed pandemic wave.

The ultimate goal of our review is to draw clinician’s attention, especially of those who are managing pediatric patients with permanent, long-standing, ventriculoperitoneal or, less commonly, ventriculo-atrial shunts. This specific subgroup of patients may eventually suffer from severe, intractable headaches which may negatively impair their quality of daily living. In the absence of any other clinical condition that could be attributed as the cause of the headache, shunt overdrainage should not be overlooked but, on the contrary, should be seriously taken into consideration in the therapeutic armamentarium of such cases, that are difficult to be handled.

This study aimed to translate and validate the Genomic Nursing Concept Inventory (GNCI) in Greek, analyze the genomic knowledge of nurses in Crete, Greece, and explore potential factors that could affect it. This cross-sectional study included 324 nurses from public hospitals and primary care units between July and December 2022. The GNCI is a 31-item questionnaire that evaluates genomic nursing concepts, but it has not been translated and validated in Greek. The translation process included independent forward translations, reconciliation, and back-translation. To evaluate internal consistency, Cronbach’s alpha was used, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was conducted to determine the fit of the model. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to examine the associations between the demographic variables and GNCI scores. The internal consistency of the GNCI was acceptable (Cronbach’s alpha= 0.622). The CFA indicated that the one-factor model had an adequate fit (SRMR = 0.076, CD = 0.677, CFI = 0.744). The mean GNCI score was moderate (0.35±0.14). Regression analysis suggested that only gender could affect GNCI scores, with female nurses scoring higher than male nurses (p>0.001). In conclusion, the Greek version of the GNCI is a reliable tool for assessing genomic knowledge among Greek nurses.

Background/Objectives: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common emergency presentation in Australia, with the choice of admitting specialty unit often influenced by pneumonia severity and comorbidities. However, it remains unclear whether there are between-specialty differences in patient characteristics and outcomes. We sought to address this issue by investigating the characteristics and outcomes of CAP patients admitted to General Medicine (GM) versus Respiratory units.Methods: This retrospective observational study utilised data from the two largest metropolitan hospitals in South Australia, encompassing all non-COVID-19-related CAP admissions throughout 2021 to 2023. Hospital length of stay (LOS), in-patient and 30-day mortality, and 30-day readmission rates were assessed by propensity-score-matching (PSM) with using 14 variables.Results: Of the 3,004 cases of non-COVID-19 CAP admitted across the two hospitals during the study period, 2,673 (71.8%) were admitted under GM units and 331 (9.1%) under Respiratory units. GM patients were, on average, a decade older, presented with a significantly higher burden of comorbidities, exhibited a greater prevalence of frailty and had higher pneumonia severity compared to those admitted under a Respiratory unit, (P

This study explores the complexities involved in the extraction and purification of catechins, prominent bioactive compounds found in plant extracts and tea. It addresses challenges arising from the intricate molecular structure of catechins and their inherent variability across botanical sources. Despite these obstacles, catechins present significant potential, particularly in healthcare. Their potent antioxidant properties have been extensively investigated and associated with numerous health benefits, positioning them as promising therapeutic agents for combating chronic diseases. Furthermore, catechins have diverse applications across various industries, including food and beverage, cosmetics, agriculture, and materials science. This abstract emphasizes the importance of continued research and innovation in catechin extraction and utilization, which hold promise for advancing human health and technological progress across multiple domains.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) poses a significant health burden worldwide, characterized by myocardial hypertrophy and increased risk of sudden cardiac death. Recent studies have revealed the involvement of exosome-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathogenesis of HCM, shedding light on novel regulatory mechanisms in cardiac remodeling and dysfunction. This literature review synthesizes current evidence on the role of exosome-derived miRNAs in HCM. It discusses key miRNAs identified from diverse cellular origins, including cardiomyocytes, stem cells, and conduction cells, elucidating their contributions to hypertrophic signaling pathways, fibrosis, and changes in cellular metabolism. Notable miRNAs highly expressed in exosomes such as miR-1, miR-133, and miR-208 are highlighted for their implications in HCM pathophysiology. Moreover, the review explores the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of exosome-derived miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in HCM management. The studies summarized in this review demonstrate that exosome-derived miRNAs play a crucial role in orchestrating the molecular events underlying HCM, offering new insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic avenues. Understanding the intricate interplay between exosome-mediated miRNA communication and HCM pathophysiology holds promise for the development of personalized diagnostic tools and targeted therapies to improve patient outcomes in HCM.

Background: Increasing research data suggests that dysfunction of emotional brain systems may be an important contributor for the psychophysiology of schizophrenia. However, contemporary psychopathology consistently underestimates the role of emotions in the phenomenology of the disease. Psychotic arousal (PA) is a conceptually-defined psychopathological construct aimed to portray the experiential emotional state of acute psychosis. The concept provides an explanatory model for the emergence of psychosis, and the formation and maintenance of delusions based on neurobiological models on the formation of core consciousness and subjectivity. This is the first exploratory study of the major assumptions, endorsed in the project summarised as follows: 1) Psychotic arousal is a discrete state, eligible to investigation; 2) Abnormal experiential feelings are an integral part of this state; 3) The state is responsive to antipsychotic intervention during the first weeks of treatment.Methods: We developed accordingly the Psychotic Arousal Scale (PAS), explored its first psychometric properties and tested its relation to other psychopathological measures. 55 acute schizophrenia patients were evaluated with the PAS, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, the Brown Assessment of Beliefs Scale, the Hamilton Anxiety, and the Calgary Depression. Cronbach α coefficients, t- test analysis, correlations and mixed linear regression models were applied for testing internal reliability of the scale, associations between parameters and sensitivity to change in three time periods during therapeutic intervention.Results: Results of the study support that (PA) is eligible for investigation as a discrete psychopathological state, abnormal experiential feelings are an integral part of this state, it presents high affinity with other affective measures, its degree of severity relates to the delusions’ conviction, and is amenable to antipsychotics early in treatment during the acute psychotic episode.Conclusions: Findings of this exploratory study are connotative of the presence of an emotional arousal impregnated by abnormal experiential feelings during acute psychosis, largely overlooked by contemporary psychopathology.

Prostate cancer is the second most frequent malignancy (after lung cancer) in men worldwide. Prostate tissue biopsies are usually graded using scores according to the Gleason grading system. This Gleason score is the most popular prognostic marker that reveals the potential aggressiveness of the disease. However, inter-observer variability in rating by human assessors is a major limiting factor. Such variability could lead to missing a severe case or suggesting unnecessary treatments. This study explores the discriminative ability of artificial intelligence (deep learning models) for Gleason score assessment. The study was designed to use whole-slide images of digitized H&E-stained biopsies of prostate tissues to automate the grading process and provide a remotely accessible clinical decision support system. Custom convolutional neural network architectures were trained on 10,616 images of prostate tissues. Gaussian filters were applied to pre-process the images and improve model performance. Transfer learning was applied to train eight machine learning architectures namely: Xception, VGG16 & 19, ResNet101, MobileNet, DenseNet121, EfficientNetB5 & B7. Efficient NetB7 had the best performance 85.2% compared with ground-truth classification by experts. Performance improves as more data is available. The model was deployed and hosted as a web application API on Google cloud service to ensure remote access. Tissue biopsy images can be uploaded and the corresponding Gleason score recovered immediately. This system reduces diagnostics turnaround time, increase throughput, and compensate for limited skills, especially in low resource settings.

Invasive Candida infections represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), with a particular impact on preterm and low birth weight neonates. In addition to prematurity, several predisposing factors for Candida colonization and dissemination during NICU hospitalization have been identified, including prolonged exposure to broad-spectrum antibiotics, central venous catheters, parenteral nutrition, corticosteroids, H2 antagonist administration and poor adherence to infection control measures. According to the literature, the implementation of antifungal prophylaxis, mainly fluconazole, in high-risk populations has proven to be an effective strategy in reducing the incidence of fungal infections. This review aims to provide an overview of risk factors for Candida invasive infections and current perspectives regarding antifungal prophylaxis use. Recognition and reduction of exposure to these modifiable risk factors, in conjunction with the administration of antifungal prophylaxis, has been demonstrated to be an effective method for preventing invasive candidiasis in susceptible neonatal populations.

The paper provides a methodological framework based on Multiple Criteria Decision Aid methods for determining relative regional vulnerabilities associated with forest fires that occurred during a given period. Different notions of ex-post vulnerability are defined based on the forest area burned and the frequency of forest fires, and their relation to the regions’ area and several socioeconomic characteristics. The methodology is applied to Greece and its administrative regions for the period 2000–2022. Linking the forest fire events with summer and spring temperatures and precipitation and using econometric count data analysis, the paper explores the climatic drivers of forest fire occurrence and provides projections of the expected change in the frequency of fires of specific size classes conditional on the evolution of mean seasonal regional temperature and precipitation according to IPCC scenarios. The results regarding relative regional vulnerabilities and expected forest fires could be useful in designing policies for preserving forests as natural capital and promoting sustainability.

This paper will discuss Data, Information, Knowledge, and Wisdom, which is commonly referred to as DIKW. The DIKW Pyramid Model that is often referenced in both academics and practitioner circles will be discussed and shown to be faulty on several levels, including. a lack of definitional agreement. A new DIKW framework will be proposed that focuses on what the DIKW elements do in the way humans think, not what they are by definition. Information as a replacement for wasted physical resources in goal-oriented tasks will be a central organizing point. The paper will move the DIKW discussion to the computer-based concept of Digital Twins (DTs) and its augmentation of how we can use DIKW to be more effective and efficient. This will especially be the case as we move to Intelligent Digital Twins (IDT) with Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine why and how adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience variable impairment and identify the processes and strategies adults with ADHD use to develop positive self-regulation skills. Methods: A mixed cohort of 11 participants (6 female and 5 male) from a university, an adult ADHD clinic and an ADHD support group in the UK were interviewed online between September 2021 and February 2022. Data were collected and analysed simultaneously, inspired by constructivist grounded theory methodology. Results: Participants described a “polar awareness of difference” from others in terms of engagement and ADHD characteristics, and a “polar awareness of consciousness” experienced as the states of chaotic attention and hyperfocus, both of which impact core perceptions of self. Using an infinity paradigm, the results demonstrate unskilled attempts to self-regulate within and between these states using self-absorption or self-transcendence strategies including their inherent challenges and energetic cost. Our results further indicate that at the centre of this dynamic paradigm creative awareness strategies exist, which exemplify polarity awareness and the regulation of that awareness supported by an authentic inner compass (AIC). Conclusions: This paper presents the empirical foundation for the ADHD Creative Awareness Theory (CAT) – a new theory for understanding the experience of ADHD consciousness and environmental engagement. Practice implications are explored, and recommendations include use of the CAT as a framework for understanding and development of inherent self-regulation skills for adults with ADHD.

Turgor pressure – the intracellular hydrostatic pressure exerted by the cell protoplast on the cell wall – is of critical physiological importance for all organisms that have the cell wall. However, in mycology there is increasing evidence that turgor pressure is not the only and not always the main factor influencing, for example, the tension of the plasma membrane, the size and shape of non-apical fungal cells, and is not even always the determining factor of apical growth. This paper characterizes various aspects of the curtain model, previously proposed to describe the regulation of plasma membrane tension in the hyphae of basidiomycetes. The current understanding of the four main components of the curtain model are outlined: the driving actin cytoskeleton, the elastic cell wall, tight adhesion of the plasma membrane to the cell wall and macroinvaginations of the plasma membrane. All four elements, summed in the single curtain model, complement or replace the physiological functions of turgor, and allow imagining how a non-apical fungal cell maintains its integrity and physiological functionality under changing osmotic and other conditions. Further experimental confirmation of the curtain model is not only of fundamental importance for mycology, but also opens up new prospects in the development of drugs that control the growth and pathogenicity of filamentous fungi.

Background: Exercise rehabilitation programs are important for long-term health and wellbeing among people with cardiac and pulmonary disease. De-spite this, many people struggle to maintain their physical activity once reha-bilitation ends. This repeated measures study tracked changes in physical ac-tivity behaviour and motivation during and after completing a communi-ty-based exercise rehabilitation program. Methods: Cardiac and pulmonary exercise rehabilitation patients (N=31), com-pleted six once-monthly measures of physical activity (MET·min), self-determined motivation, intention, and habit strength for rehabilitation ex-ercise (within rehabilitation sessions) and lifestyle physical activity (outside of rehabilitation sessions). Linear regression and random effects models with es-timated marginal means were used to test for associations between physical activity motivation and behaviour and change during and post-rehabilitation. Results: Overall physical activity decreased after rehabilitation (823 MET·min) despite patients becoming more self-determined for lifestyle physical activity during rehabilitation. More self-determined motivation, stronger intentions, and stronger habits were associated with more lifestyle physical activity be-haviour. However, none of these motivation variables were significantly asso-ciated with rehabilitation exercise behaviour. Conclusions: Among community-based cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation patients, physical activity levels decreased following exercise rehabilitation programs. The findings revealed clear distinctions in the motivation of reha-bilitation exercise compared to lifestyle physical activity. Exercise rehabilitation programs might improve the longevity of outcomes by integrating approaches to enhance lifestyle physical activity beyond the clinic.

Self-administered pre-participation screening for physical activity (PA) requires an instrument that should be easily used and identify individuals at high risk. The Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q+) has been used for many years. Its ease of use and ability to identify those not fit to undergo PA has not been assessed. This study was to determine the rates of the PAR-Q+ in identifying adults who may not be fit for moderate or intense PA and obtain feedback on the use of this tool. A public on-line voluntary survey on the PAR-Q+ was carried out obtaining participants’ bio-characteristics, them completing the PAR-Q+ form and providing feedback. With 1019 participants, about 57.8% engaged in at least 150 minutes of PA weekly. This decreased with increasing number of co-morbidities. Increasing age was associated with more co-morbidities. About 33.1% of the participants using the PARQ+ would have required further medical evaluation. Only 3 of the 7 main PAR-Q+ questions were easily understood. Difficulties were encountered with 39 of the 44 follow-up questions, especially amongst those with co-morbidities. The large number of technical terms was also a source of concern. The PAR-Q+ would need extensive simplification before it may be recommended for use.

This research paper introduces a novel analytical and geometrical modelling approach for calculating the stiffness matrix of knitted composites. Knitted composites have gained significant attention due to their unique mechanical properties and potential applications in various industries. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of knitted composites, encompassing different types, shapes, and categories. Furthermore, it explores various modelling techniques, including analytical, geometrical, and experimental models, to accurately predict the stiffness properties of knitted composites. A thorough literature review is conducted, and detailed explanations, case studies, and relevant citations are provided to support the claims made in this paper.

Historically, the lack of comprehensive and real-time data is the main challenge in city sustainability assessments. However, with the increase in the availability of crowdsourced data over the last decade, a rich and real-time data source provides detailed images of urban systems. This has opened up new opportunities for practitioners, including geographers, social researchers, and data scientists, to gather and utilize social media data as a core source for studying cities and assessing their sustainability. This paper proposes an assessment model for the sustainability of cities based on crowdsourced data and the principles of General System Theory. The model aims to utilize crowdsourced data for the analysis and decision-making processes to enhance the sustainability and resilience of smart future cities.

Nurses continue to experience intense psychological repercussions despite the official conclusion of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this cross-sectional study conducted after the end of the pandemic crisis, in nurses, we evaluated the levels and explored the associations between anger, insomnia and resilience. A total of 442 nurses participated in an online survey and were invited to state their work experience, gender and age and complete the self-report measures of the Dimensions of Anger Reactions-5 (DAR-5), the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) and the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS). 62.1% of participants presented with positive scores on the AIS, 41.5% displayed positive values on the DAR-5 scale, whereas 24.9% of nurses demonstrated scores indicative of low resilience on the BRS scale. Regression analysis revealed that 23.5% of the variance in the AIS scores can be attributed to the DAR-5 scores and 3% to the BRS scores. Mediation analysis confirmed the protective role of resilience contributing as a negative mediator in the DAR-5 and the AIS relationship. Screening for insomnia symptoms and anger issues among nurses after the end of the pandemic and implementing appropriate interventions is considered imperative to avoid long-term health consequences.

Introduction: In Ethiopia, maternal undernutrition is a major public health concern. However, comprehensive evidence is lacking in the southern part of Ethiopia, specifically the household and community-level related determinants of undernutrition. Besides, the evidence about the prevalence and determinants of undernutrition is not yet documented in the current study setting. Thus, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of undernutrition and identify its determinants among pregnant women in Hawela Lida district of the Sidama region, Ethiopia.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 515 pregnant women from June 1–25, 2024. A multi-stage sampling method was utilized to select eligible pregnant women. We collected data using the Open Data Kit smart phone device and exported it to Stata version 17 for further processing and analysis. A multi-level mixed-effects modified Poisson regression analysis with robust variance was used to account for between and with cluster effects.Result: The prevalence of undernutrition among pregnant women was 41.7% (95% CI: 37.3–45.6). The prevalence of undernutrition was associated with planned pregnancy (adjusted prevalence ratio [APR]: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.66-0.98), household food insecurity (APR: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.26-2.13), inadequate dietary diversity (APR: 1.79; 95% CI: 1.43-2.25), and women’s poor knowledge of nutrition (APR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.32-2.12) at individual levels. The identified determinants of undernutrition at the community level were low community literacy rates (APR: 4.62; 95% CI: 1.13–18.79) and low community wealth status (APR: 1.91; 95% CI: 1.10–3.31).Conclusion: Two in five pregnant women had an undernutrition problem in the study setting. Individual and community-level determinants contributed to the high prevalence of undernutrition. Thus, any prevention and control approaches to undernutrition should consider inter-sectorial collaboration to account for determinants at various levels. Besides, any program must emphasize the delivery of nutrition education about dietary diversity, particularly targeting pregnant mothers who have poor knowledge of nutrition and unplanned pregnancy at the individual level. Moreover, creating a small business reform for the community with low wealth status using agricultural extension workers must be considered.

Plastic surgery is a diverse speciality, relevant to non-plastic doctors, as plastic surgeons frequently collaborate with other specialities and its’ basic principles are transferable across multiple specialities. Foundation year (FY) doctors are the most junior doctors in the workforce and may need to apply plastic surgery knowledge and principles during their clinical duties. Despite this, formal plastic surgery education for junior doctors is limited, resulting in an educational gap. This study gains insight into the perceived confidence, knowledge gaps, skills, educational activities and needs related to plastic surgery. This qualitative study uses phenomenology through semi-structured individual interviews with 8 FY doctors. Data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. This study revealed that plastic surgery features diversely in the work life of FYs, who often manage patients with a lack of knowledge and confidence, influencing patient care and FY wellbeing. FYs primarily acquire knowledge and confidence through experiential learning and individual initiative. A need for curriculum improvements was expressed. FYs are an essential part of the workforce who exhibited educational gaps and a lack of confidence in plastic surgery knowledge. We suggest improved integration of plastic surgery into the FY curriculum for improved FY knowledge and patient care.

The water exit problem, which is ubiquitous in ocean engineering, is one of the significant research topics in the interaction between navigators and water. The study of the water exit problem can help to improve the structure design for marine ships and underwater weapons for better strength and movement status. However, the water exit problem involves complex processes such as gas-liquid-solid three-phase coupling, cavitation, water separation, liquid surface deformation and fragmentation, making it challenging to study. According to the works carried out by many researchers towards this issue, we summarize the recent developments from three aspects, i.e. theoretical research, numerical simulation and experimental results. In theoretical research, the improved von Kaman model and linearized water exit model are introduced. Several classical experimental devices, data acquisition means and cavitation are introduced in experimental development. Three methods, namely, BEM(boundary element method), FVM(finite volume method) and LES(large eddy simulation) are concluded for numerical simulation. The limitations and shortcomings of these three aspects are then analyzed. Finally, an outlook on the future research improvements and developments of the water exit problem is provided.

Background: Oxidative stress has emerged as a key contributor to numerous NCDs (Non Communicable Diseases), including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes. This study aims to explore the potential of targeted interventions to mitigate oxidative stress as part of a primary prevention strategy. Methods: The study included 32 healthy participants (11 men, 21 women) aged 45-65 who completed both the initial and follow-up assessments of the Healthy Days Initiative, a community-based wellness program organized by the non-profit Associazione O.R.A. ETS. Through blood analysis, vital sign assessment, lifestyle questionnaires, and individualized recommendations, participants received guidance on improving their health and reducing disease risk. The initiative also offered the opportunity for participants to consume a flavonoid supplement containing quercitrin, rutin and hesperidin, with the goal of reducing oxidative stress. Participants who opted for supplementation were instructed to take 1-2 tablets daily for two weeks. Data collected included demographic information, anthropometric measurements, vital signs, dietary and lifestyle habits, medical history, WHO-5 Well-Being Index scores, and blood parameters. Results: Significant reductions were observed in glucose levels (from 82 to 74.5 mg/dL), reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) (from 394.5 to 365.5 U.CARR), and systolic blood pressure (from 133 to 122 mmHg) after the two-week flavonoid intervention. Most participants (26/31) reported no side effects, and the majority (30/31) expressed a willingness to continue using a product combination of quercitrin, rutin and hesperidin or a similar product long-term. Conclusions: While limited in scope and duration, the PREVES-FLAVON study contributes valuable insights to the growing body of evidence suggesting that flavonoid supplementation may play a significant role in reducing risk factors associated with NCDs in primary prevention settings. By targeting novel risk factors such as oxidative stress, this intervention holds promise for mitigating the global burden of NCDs and promoting healthy aging.

A series of conditions can mimic musculoskeletal infections on imaging, complicating their diagnosis and affecting the treatment. Depending on the anatomical location, different conditions can manifest with clinical and imaging findings that mimic infections. Herein we present a wide spectrum of the musculoskeletal disorders of the axial skeleton, long bones, peripheral joints and soft-tissue which may manifest as an infectious process, besides focusing on the potential mimics of osteomyelitis, septic arthritis and infectious spondylodiscitis that are common in clinical practice. We present the typical imaging characteristics of each musculoskeletal infection, followed by mimicking conditions.

An axiomatic theory is proposed that reconciles the existence of an absolute scale for time (Planck time) and special relativity. According to this theory speed of light c becomes a variable which is proposed to be taken as the fifth dimension.

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of athletes' respiratory muscle strength, as assessed through maximal inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory pressure (MEP), on aerobic endurance, as indicated by maximal oxygen consump-tion (Max VO2) kinetics. Respiratory muscle strength was assessed using a digital spirometer (Pony FX Cosmed, Italy), while maximal oxygen utilization capacity was measured using a breath-by-breath automatic portable gas analysis system (Cosmed K5, Italy). Statistical analysis was conducted utilizing SPSS 22.0. Based on the standardized regression coefficients (β), it was found that MEP (mean ± SD: 130.95 ± 42.82) and inspiratory diaphragmatic circumference values significantly influenced ventilatory equivalent (VE), oxygen consumption (VO2), and carbon dioxide pro-duction (VCO2). Conversely, the remaining predictor variables did not exhibit a sig-nificant effect on VE (mean ± SD: 134.80 ± 36.69), VO2 (mean ± SD: 3877.52 ± 868.47 ml), and VCO2 (mean ± SD: 4301.27 ± 1001.07 ml). In contrast, measurements of chest circumference (mean ± SD: 91.40 ± 10.72 cm), MEP, and diaphragmatic cir-cumference during inspiration (mean ± SD: 95.20 ± 10.21 cm) were found to signifi-cantly impact Max VO2 (mean ± SD: 58.52 ± 10.74 ml/kg/min), while the other pre-dictor variables did not demonstrate a significant effect on Max VO2. Conclusively, the study revealed that measured values of diaphragmatic circumference during inspiration and MEP exerted a notable influence on Max VO2, VE, VO2, and VCO2. Our findings underscore the importance of considering respiratory muscle strength in assessing and enhancing athletes' aerobic performance. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the interplay between respiratory function and exercise capacity, offering potential avenues for optimizing training regimens and perfor-mance outcomes in athletic contexts.

Understanding and addressing dehumanization in healthcare is crucial due to its profound impact on patient care, ethical implications on patient dignity and autonomy, and its potential to affect the psychological well-being of healthcare professionals. The primary aim of this study was to develop reliable and valid instruments measuring two different types of dehumanization, namely animalistic dehumanization (i.e., stripping one of their uniquely human characteristics) and mechanistic dehumanization (i.e., striping one of their human nature characteristics) among healthcare professionals. In a cross-sectional validation study among healthcare professionals, we developed and tested measures of both animalistic and mechanistic dehumanization, focusing on dehumanization of patients (hetero-dehumanization) and oneself (self-dehumanization), respectively. All measures were developed and validated based on a concept analysis, a literature review, and an appraisal of pre-existing scales. The research was conducted among 400 nurses and medical doctors employed in Greek public hospitals. Coefficient Validity Ratio results showed that 100% of items were acceptable for both measures. The newly developed hetero-dehumanization scale encompassed two-factors (factor 1: animalistic dehumanization, factor 2: mechanistic dehumanization, Cronbach’s alpha was equal to 0.86 for each measure). The self-dehumanization scale was a mono-factorial measure mechanistic dehumanization (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.97). Two validated measures of (self and hetero-) animalistic and mechanistic dehumanization measures were developed for the assessment of dehumanization among health professionals, which will form the basis for future research in this important scientific field.

The pathology of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), a disease characterized by papillary edema and increased intracranial pressure (IICP), is not yet understood; this disease significantly affects quality of life due to symptoms, including vision loss, headache, and pulsatile tinnitus. By contrast, superficial siderosis (SS), a disorder in which hemosiderin is deposited on the surface of the cerebral cortex and cerebellum, potentially causes cerebellar ataxia or hearing loss. So far, no cases of IIH with infratentorial and supratentorial cortical SS have been reported. Herein, we report a case of a 31-year-old woman with obesity who developed this condition. The patient suddenly developed headache and dizziness, had difficulty walking, and subsequently became aware of diplopia. Fundus examination revealed bilateral optic nerve congestive papillae and right eye abducens disturbance. Head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed prominent SS on the cerebellar surface and cerebral cortex. Lumbar puncture revealed IICP of 32 cmH2O, consistent with the diagnostic criteria for IIH, and treatment with oral acetazolamide was started; subsequently, the intracranial pressure decreased to 20 cmH2O. Her abduction disorder disappeared, and the swelling of the optic papilla improved. She was now able return to her life as a teacher without any sequelae. SS is caused by persistent slight hemorrhage into the subarachnoid space. In this case, both infratentorial and supratentorial cortical superficial SS was observed. Although cases of IIH complicated by SS are rare, it should be kept in mind that a causal relationship between IIH and SS was inferred from our case. Our findings also suggest that cerebrospinal fluid dynamic analysis using MRI is effective in diagnosing IIH and in determining the efficacy of treatment.

Our study essentially concerns the dynamic behavior of an SIRS epidemic model in discrete time. Two equilibrium points are obtained; one is disease-free while the other is endemic. We are interested in the endemic fixed point as well as its asymptotic stability. Depending on the parameters which are estimated using the data from US Department of health and SIRS modelling with optimization, two Flip and Transcritical bifurcations appear. We illustrate their diagrams, as well as their bifurcation curves using the method of Carcasses \cite{carcasses1993determination,carcasses1995singularities} for the Flip bifurcation and by an implicit function deduced from such an equation for the Transcritical bifurcation. We use the scanning of the parametric plane to have a global view of the behavior of the model and to highlight the zones of stability of the existing singularities. A superposition of the bifurcation curves with the parametric plane can show the overlap of the curves with the boundaries of the stability domains, which confirms the smooth running of the simulation and its correspondence with the theory, we finish this article with constrained optimal control applied to infection rate and recruitment rate for an SIRS discrete epidemic model. Pontryagin's maximum principle is used to determine these optimal controls. Finally using COVID-19 data in the USA, we obtain results that demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy to mitigate the spread of the pandemic.

Elizabethkingia anophelis is an opportunistic pathogen causing lifethreatening infections in humans, particularly in immunocompromised patients, neonates and elderly. Infections caused by this species are exceptionally challenging to treat due to its multiresistance to antimicrobials. We report a case of central line-associated bloodstream infection by E. anophelis in a 2.5-year-old girl with acute lymphoblastic leukemia successfully treated with a combination of piperacillin/tazobactam and amikacin. The literature was also reviewed on paediatric infections caused by E. anophelis. Accurate identification with MALDI-TOF, or using molecular techniques, is crucial because of varying susceptibilities among species. Early, accurate diagnosis and prompt effective treatment optimize outcomes.

The study investigated roles of institutional types and ethnic/racial background on academic credit among the traditionally underrepresented population of the U.S. study abroad program. Using archival data, the study sampled the student’s enrollment and academic credit information spanning a period of 20 years (2003 - 2022). Data analysis Using One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) indicates significant main influence of institutional type (p<.001) and significant main influence of ethnic/racial identity (p<.001) on students’ academic credit. The result was discussed in terms of its relevance in educational policy re-evaluations, improvement of the study conditions of the underrepresented students, and enhancement of the enrollment opportunities of these minority population across all U.S. institutions of learning.

Embryo’s Implantation is a question that we are not in the position to answer in full details. We know that it depends on embryo’s quality and uterine receptivity. It is possible to access uterine cavity before in vitro fertilisation by a variety of tools, however hysteroscopy is the gold standard in evaluation of uterine cavity and potential pathology. The frequencies of unrecognised uterine pathology revealed by hysteroscopy are 18-50% and 40-43% in patients undergoing in vitro fertilisation or after recurrent implantation failure respectively. Data is inconclusive regarding the role of hysteroscopy on pregnancy outcome after in vitro fertilisation. This review aims to evaluate the validity of office hysteroscopy in subfertile population before or after IVF treatment

Same-day desensitization (SDD) is a procedure in which desensitization to the drug suspected of causing the hypersensitivity reaction (HR) is performed on the same day as the patient's reaction. In rapid drug desensitization (RDD), desensitization to the suspected drug is performed after an allergological study. The aim of the study was to analyze the diagnostic capacity of the allergist in Oncology Day Hospital (ODH) to establish the phenotype of the HR, in the context of SDD, based exclusively on clinical biomarkers. This is a study of patients treated with desensitization on the same day they had a HR. Later an allergological study (clinical history, skin test, risk assessment, serological biomarkers, drug provocation test if applicable) was performed prior to the following administrations. A total of 35 successful SDDs were performed. A high concordance (91.5% of patients) was found between the phenotype suspected by the allergist after the initial assessment of the patient prior to SDD and the final phenotype after subsequent allergological study performed in the Allergy Department. The presence of the allergist at the ODH allows, in addition to initial treatment according to phenotype, desensitization on the day of the reaction. This will lead to personalized and precision allergology.

This literature review investigates the importance of simulation and measurement techniques in the development of transmission lines and antennas, which are crucial to the reliability and efficiency of communication system. It emphasizes the necessity of exact measurement and computational approaches for simulating complicated electromagnetic process, which help to optimize designs before physical prototypes are built. The review examines a variety of research articles that offer innovative solutions to improving accuracy in antenna design, scalability and cost challenges in antenna measurements, and crosstalk measurement methods. It also explores how these methodologies affect antenna design parameters such as gain, bandwidth, and radiation patterns, emphasizing the importance of correct modeling to ensure the performance of transmission lines and antennas in modern communication system. The review serves as a valuable reference for guiding future research and technological advancements in these fields.

ATP is an essential molecule in many biocatalytic processes. The industrial implementation of these processes is hampered by the fact that they require stoichiometric quantities of this expen-sive co-factor. To avoid this problem, recycling systems are needed. This study characterizes a putative polyphosphate kinase enzyme from Burkholderia cenocepacia that can regenerate ATP from AMP. Sequence analysis shows that BcPPK2-III exhibits the characteristic structural motifs of known PPK2 enzymes, including conserved motifs Walker A and B, and the subclass-specific res-idue E137. Molecular docking simulations showed ADP had the highest binding affinity (-7.340 kcal/mol), followed by AMP (-7.284 kcal/mol), with ATP having the lowest affinity (-6.464 kcal/mol). The enzyme was overexpressed in E. coli. Protein expression and purification were monitored by SDS-PAGE and quantified by densitometric analysis. Enzymatic activity assays re-vealed that BcPPK2-III converts 70% ATP with a TTN of 334,000 after 24 hours and remains sta-ble over a pH range of 6-9 and temperatures up to 70°C. BcPPK2-III shows significant potential for industrial ATP regeneration and offers high conversion rates and stability. The enzyme's high conversion rate and stability make BcPPK2-III a promising candidate for the improvement of bio-catalytic processes that rely on ATP at industrial level.

Background: Although the link between environmental lead exposure and several patterns of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been reported, its association with silent myocardial infarc-tion (SMI) has not been explored. We aimed to assess the association between blood lead levels (BLL) and risk of SMI. Methods: This analysis included 7283 (mean age 56.1±2.52 years, 52.5% women) participants from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey who were free of clinical CVD. Ascertainment of BLL done using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry. SMI defined as ECG evidence of MI without history of MI. Multivariable lo-gistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between SMI and BLL. Results: SMI was detected in 120 participants corresponding to an unweighted prevalence of 1.65%. Par-ticipants with higher levels of BLL had higher prevalence of SMI (0.4%, 0.9%, and 2.4% across BLL tertiles; p-value

Intelligence is a human construct to represent the ability to achieve goals. Given this wide berth, intelligence has been defined countless times, studied in a variety of ways and represented using numerous measures. Understanding intelligence ultimately requires theory and quantification, both of which have proved elusive. I develop a framework -- the Theory of Intelligences (TIS) -- that applies across all systems from physics, to biology, humans and AI. TIS likens intelligence to a calculus, differentiating, correlating and integrating information. Intelligence operates at many levels and scales and TIS distils these into a parsimonious macroscopic framework centered on solving, planning and their optimization to accomplish goals. Notably, intelligence can be expressed in informational units or in units relative to goal difficulty, the latter defined as goal complexity relative to system (individual or benchmarked) ability. I present general equations for intelligence and its components, and a simple expression for the evolution of intelligence traits. The measures developed here could be the basis for further refinements to gauge different facets of intelligence for any step-wise transformation of information. I argue that "proxies" such as environment, technology, society and collectives are essential to a general theory of intelligence and to possible evolutionary transitions in intelligence, particularly in humans. I conclude with testable predictions of TIS and offer several speculations.

It is desirable to upgrade previous evolutionary theories, which have remained incomplete and controversial for decades. Here we employ the concept of carbon-based entities (CBEs), which include methane, amino acids, proteins, organisms, and other entities containing relatively many carbon atoms. We deduce the driving force, mechanisms, steps, modes, tempos of CBE evolution, through integration of biology, physics, and chemistry using logics for complex issues. We hence establish the Carbon-Based Evolutionary Theory (CBET). The CBET suggests that evolution is the increase in hierarchy, diversity, fitness of CBEs under natural selection and driven by thermodynamics due to the chemical effect of the thermodynamic features of the Earth on CBEs. It provides better explanations for life origin, macroevolution events, natural selection, sympatric speciation, and evolution tempos than previous evolutionary theories. It reveals the evolutionary basis of multiple important social notions, including diversity, collaboration, altruism, obeying rules, and proper increase in freedom. It refutes some wrong notions in thermodynamics, including negative entropy (negentropy) and that biological order is equal to thermodynamic order, which have misled many people. The CBET is supported by its deduction and application. It could be a rare bridge linking laws of thermodynamics, evolution of life, and development of human society, and could have great significance in various sciences.

In this study, we obtained results for the computation of eigen-pairs, singular value decomposition, pseudo-inverse, and the least square problem for elliptic quaternion matrices. Moreover, we established algorithms based on these results and provided illustrative numerical experiments to substantiate the accuracy of our conclusions. In the experiments, it was observed that the p-value in the algebra of elliptic quaternions and elliptic numbers directly affects the performance of the problem under consideration. Selecting the optimal p-value for problem-solving and the elliptic behavior of many physical systems make this number system advantageous in applied sciences.

Sepsis is a serious disease that can lead to mortality. The etiology of the disease is connected to how the body as a host reacts toward microbes such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi invasion. Current research shows that during sepsis, the reaction toward microbe attacks takes two main phases. The first is known as a cytokine storm, while the second is a vicious cycle of pro-inflammatory responses followed by a strict anti-inflammatory response led by CD4+ Tregs. Various immunomodulatory therapies have been proposed to break the cycle of pro- and anti-inflammatory reactions to sepsis. However, clinical trials did not show promising results, indicating further research into the mechanism that Treg uses to inhibit proinflammatory reactions. We used next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis of bulk RNA-seq and single-cell RNA-seq data to examine the exact molecular pathways used by Treg to inhibit the immune response in sepsis. Our approach identified ACOD1 (Aconitate Decarboxylase 1) as a primary mediator of Treg suppression of immune cells. We identified and validated CD36 as a downstream target of ACOD1. CD36 is a known metabolite regulator in Tregs. Taken together, our results indicate that targeting ACOD1 could prove valuable in regulating Treg function during sepsis.

We model the financial markets as a game and make predictions using Markov chains estimators. We extract the possible patterns displayed by the financial markets, define a game where one of the players is the speculator, whose strategies depend on his/hers risk-to-reward preferences, and the market is the other player, whose strategies are the previously observed patterns. Then we estimate the market’s mixed probabilities by defining Markov chains and utilizing its transitions matrices. Afterwards, we use these probabilities to determine which is the optimal strategy for the speculator. Finally, we apply these models to real-time market data to determine its feasibility. After all, we obtained a model for the financial markets that has an outstanding performance in terms of accuracy and profitability.

Because we observed a reduced humoral immune response to the COVID-19 vaccine and subsequently discovered a lower susceptibility to COVID-19 in individuals carrying the ALDH2 rs671 variant, we hypothesized that rs671 is beneficial for cellular immunity against COVID-19. Using the IFN-γ enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assay, we evaluated cellular immunity before and after COVID-19 vaccination in two subcohorts of a previously reported cohort. Subcohort 1 (26 participants) had six repeated observations at baseline and after one to three doses, whereas subcohort 2 (19 participants) had two observations, before and after the third dose. ELISPOT counts at six months after the second dose increased from baseline in carriers of the rs671 variant, but not in non-carriers. A positive effect of rs671 on ELISPOT counts was estimated using a mixed model, including the random effect of subcohort, repeated measures, and fixed effects of vaccine type, age, sex, height, lifestyle, steroid use, and allergic disease. There was no association between ELISPOT counts and specific IgG levels, suggesting a limitation in estimating protective potential by humoral response. There is lower humoral and higher cellular immunity against SARS-CoV-2 in rs671 variant carriers compared to non-carriers, providing a potential basis for optimizing preventive measures and drug discovery.

Introduction: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) can be caused by different pathophysiological mechanisms, including precapillary PH (pulmonary arterial hypertension), post-capillary PH (secondary to left heart diastolic dysfunction), or combined pre- and post-capillary PH. To unmask occult post-capillary PH, fluid loading with saline during right heart catheterization (RHC) is recommended. In the present study, we investigated the response to fluid challenge test (FCT) in patients with SSc who were referred for RHC due to their high likelihood of PH on screening echocardiography. Methods: Demographic data, clinical characteristics, echocardiographic and RHC data, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) results were obtained from the patients' hospital records or by contacting their rheumatologist. A positive FCT was defined as an increase in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) to more than18 mmHg with rapid saline infusion. Patients were followed for a median (IQR) of 15 (7-20) months. Results: Of the total 98 scleroderma patients 34 patients (29 female) were included. The mean age (SD) was 50.6(8.2) years. Baseline RHC data showed that 20 patients had no PH and 14 patients had mild precapillary PH (mPAH). Ten patients (50%) of the patients with no PH and 10 patients (71.4%) with mPAH had a significant increase in PCWP after a fluid loading. There was no statistically significant difference between the patients with positive and negative FCT in terms of the presence of LGE/inflammation on CMR examination. During follow-up, 3 patients died. Mortality was due to SSc-related complications in two patients. Conclusion: This study provides preliminary evidence that FCT may be a useful adjunct to baseline RHC testing to identify SSc patients with latent postcapillary PH. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal role of the fluid challenge test in the clinical management of SSc patients with suspected PH.

We analyzed data of pediatric invasive fungal diseases of the central nervous system (CNS-IFDs) reported by five of total eight Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Departments in Greece for 15 years (2007-2022). A total of twelve patients (11 boys, median age: 9.5yrs range: 2-16) were reported suffering from CNS-IFDs. Underlying malignancy was acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 9/12, and acute myeloid leukemia, Ewing sarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma in one each. Eleven patients presented with CNS-related symptoms (i.e seizures, headache, cerebral palsy, ataxia, hallucination, seizures, blurred vision, amaurosis). All patients had pathological MRI findings. Multifocal fungal disease was observed in 6/12 patients. Nine proven and three probable CNS-IFD cases were diagnosed. Causative pathogens in proven cases were Aspergillus spp. and Candida albicans (n=2 each), Mucor spp., Rhizopus arrhizus, Absidia spp., Fusarium oxysporum and Cryptococcus neoformans (n=1 each). Causative pathogens in probable cases were Aspergillus spp. (n=2) and Candida spp. (n=1). All patients received appropriate antifungal therapy (median duration: 69.5 days, range 19-364). Two patients underwent additional surgical treatment. Six patients admitted to ICU due to complications. Three patients (25%) died, two due to IFD and one due to underlying disease. Early recognition and prompt intervention of CNS-IFDs may rescue the patients and improve overall survival.

In an era where digital technologies are integral to daily life, developing higher-order thinking skills with appropriate information and communication technology (ICT) support is crucial. The purpose of this study was to examine synergies of systems thinking and technology-enhanced learning from the perspective of flow theory. For that purpose, we surveyed more than 65 pre-service preschool teachers engaged in a design, technology, and engineering (DTE) course at the University of Ljubljana. Mapping of systems thinking revealed that pre-service preschool teachers needed support with regard to feedback and understanding the interrelationship dimen-sion of systems thinking. Predictive and mediation analyses yielded some interesting results. Those who participated in the ICT-enhanced DTE course showed higher cognitive and social engage-ment, which is correlated with better systems thinking, while their aesthetic engagement was lower. Experiencing a flow state during ICT activities positively influenced systems thinking, par-ticularly in terms of clear goals and autotelic experiences. Flow theory seems to be a solid and ap-propriate framework to use for studying synergies in technology-enhanced systems thinking for sustainable education. These findings underscore the importance of integrating systems thinking into curricula to enhance learning outcomes and prepare students for future challenges toward the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.

Background: Patients with thromboembolic disease, prosthetic valves, or coagulation issues are commonly prescribed anticoagulants and antiplatelets. Although common professional oral hygiene might not represent a health concern for these patients, anticoagulant and antiplatelet medication might constitute a challenge for dentists and dental hygienists since possible prolonged bleeding might interfere with dental procedures. The aim of the present study was to investigate the bleeding time of different anticoagulants and antiplatelets during a professional hygiene session adapting the Ivy test to the oral environment; Methods: 93 consecutive patients undergoing professional oral hygiene were recruited. Debridement during oral hygiene was performed using ultrasonic mechanical instrumentation, and bleeding sites were assessed and treated with gentle pressure using sterile gauzes. The time for bleeding cessation was recorded. Patients were categorized into six groups based on their drug intake, Control: no anticoagulants or antiplatelets DTI: direct thrombin inhibitors (dabigatran) AntiXa: directa factor Xa inhibitors (endoxaban, apixaban, rivaroxaban) VKA: vitamin K antagonists (warfarin, acenocoumarol) SAPT: single anti-platelet therapy (acetylsalicylic acid or clopidogrel) DAPT: dual anti-platelet therapy (acetylsalicylic acid and clopidogrel). Bleeding time was measured in seconds and mean values were assessed among the different groups. Differences between groups were investigated with Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Dunn’s post-hoc correction for multiple comparisons or two-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett post-hoc; Results: Control patients presented the lowest bleeding time 50 sec, followed by AntiXa (98), SAPT (105), DTI (120), DAPT (190) and VKA (203). A statistically significant difference was present among control and DTI (p=0.004), VKA (p&lt;0.001), DAPT (p&lt;0.001). Conclusions: Based on the present outcomes, an increased risk of prolonged bleeding emerged in patients taking VKA and DAPT. However, bleeding did not interfere with the oral hygiene ses-sion The optimal period for dental treatment of these patients should be 2-3 hours before the next dose, without the need to temporarily suspend the medication.

Mechanical ventilation (MV), used in patients with acute lung injury (ALI), induces diaphragmatic myofiber atrophy and contractile inactivity, termed ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction. Phosphoinositide 3-kinase- (PI3K-) is crucial in modulating fibrogenesis during the reparative phase of ALI; however, the mechanisms regulating the interactions among MV, myofiber fibrosis, and PI3K- remain unclear. We hypothesized MV with or without bleomycin treatment would increase diaphragm muscle fibrosis through the PI3K- pathway. Five days after receiving a single bolus of 0.075 units bleomycin intratracheally, C57BL/6 mice were exposed to 6 or 10 mL/kg MV for 8 h after receiving 5 mg/kg of AS605240 intraperitoneally. In wild-type mice, bleomycin exposure followed by MV 10 mL/kg prompted significant increases in disruptions of diaphragmatic myofibrillar organization, transforming growth factor-1, oxidative loads, Masson’s trichrome staining, extracellular collagen levels, positive staining of -smooth muscle actin, PI3K- expression, and myonuclear apoptosis (P &lt; 0.05). Decreased diaphragm contractility and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor- coactivator-1 levels were also observed (P &lt; 0.05). MV-augmented bleomycin-induced diaphragm fibrosis and myonuclear apoptosis were attenuated in PI3K-γ-deficient mice and through AS605240-induced inhibition of PI3K- activity (P &lt; 0.05). MV-augmented diaphragm fibrosis after bleomycin-induced ALI is partially mediated through PI3K-γ. Therapy targeting PI3K-γ may ameliorate MV-associated diaphragm fibrosis.

Background/Objectives: Rehabilitation helps reduce disability in dementia. The Australian National Dementia Action Plan identifies a gap in clear treatment pathways post-diagnosis, affecting the quality of life for those with dementia. This study assessed the impact of a one-day dementia training course and follow-up on GPs' and practice nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and confidence regarding dementia rehabilitation. Methods: The training, led by two experienced GPs and an academic physiotherapist, covered dementia diagnosis, allied health roles, care planning, and referrals. The follow-up involved applying the learnt material and completing a reflective task. Three longitudinal surveys (Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale - DKAS, General Practitioners’ Attitudes and Confidence towards Dementia Survey - GPACS-D, and Dementia Rehabilitation Scale) and Likert-scale statements were conducted pre-course, post-course, and at 4-month follow-up, alongside a focus group. Descriptive and regression analyses were applied to survey data, and content analysis was used for focus group data. Results: Seventeen participants (14 GPs, 3 nurses) completed the pre-post course survey, with eight (6 GPs, 2 nurses) participating in follow-up and focus group discussions. Post-course, DKAS scores increased by 12.1%, GPACS-D by 10.1%, and the dementia rehabilitation scale by 9.4%. Likert-scale statements improved by 8-79%. At the four-month follow-up, there was a slight, non-significant decline in most measures. Focus groups highlighted the training’s impacts, useful components, barriers, and suggestions for improvement. Conclusion: Training GPs and practice nurses in dementia rehabilitation enhances knowledge, awareness, and confidence. Ongoing efforts are needed to sustain benefits and address referral barriers for better access to dementia rehabilitation services.

The development of the finite element method (FEM) combined block polynomial interpolation with the concepts of finite difference formats and the variation principle. Because of this combination, FEM overcomes the shortcomings of traditional variation methods while maintaining the benefits of current variation methods and the flexibility of the finite difference method. As a result, FEM is an advancement above the traditional variation methods. The aim of the study is to experimentally determine the thermal behavior of two stomatognathic systems, one control and the other presenting orthodontic treatment by means of a fixed metallic orthodontic appliance, both being subjected to several thermal regimes. In order to carry out this experimental study, we examined the case of a female subject, who was diagnosed with Angle class I malocclusion. The patient underwent a bimaxillary CBCT investigation before initiating the orthodontic treatment. A three-dimensional model with fully closed surfaces was obtained by using the InVesalius and Geomagic programs. Like the tissues examined in the patient, bracket and tube-like components, as well as orthodontic wires, can be included to these models. Once it is finished and geometrically accurate, the model is exported to a FEM-using program, such as Ansys Workbench. The intention was to study the behavior of two stomatognathic systems (with and without a fixed metallic orthodontic appliance) subjected to very hot food (70 ⁰C) and very cold food (-18 ⁰C). From the analysis of the obtained data, it was concluded that, following the simulations carried out in the presence of the fixed metallic orthodontic appliance, significantly higher temperatures were generated in the dental pulp.

Introduction Emergency laparotomy is a surgical procedure associated with significantly higher mortality rates compared to elective surgeries. Awake laparotomy under neuraxial anaesthesia has recently emerged as a promising approach in abdominal surgery to improve patient outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of using lumbar spinal anaesthesia as the primary anaesthetic technique in emergency laparotomies. Methods We conducted a case series involving 16 patients who underwent emergency laparotomy for bowel ischemia, perforation, or occlusion. Lumbar spinal anaesthesia was employed as the main anaes-thetic technique. We analysed patient demographics, clinical characteristics, intraoperative details, and postoperative outcomes. The primary outcome measures included the adequacy of postoper-ative pain control, the incidence of postoperative complications, and mortality rates. Results Among the 16 patients, adequate postoperative pain control was achieved, with only 2 patients requiring additional analgesia. Postoperative complications, including sepsis, wound dehiscence, and pneumonia, were observed in 7 patients (44%). The observed mortality rate was relatively low at 6% (1 patient). Notably, conversion to general anaesthesia was not necessary in any of the cases, and no early readmissions were reported. Discussion Our findings highlight the feasibility and potential benefits of using neuraxial anaesthesia in emergency laparotomies. The observed low mortality rate and the avoidance of conversion to general anaesthesia suggest that lumbar spinal anaesthesia may be a useful alternative in emer-gency settings. However, the occurrence of postoperative complications in 44% of patients indi-cates the need for cautious patient selection and close monitoring. Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to fully elucidate the efficacy, safety, and potential impact of this tech-nique on patient outcomes in emergency laparotomies.

This paper presents a new theory explaining the pathological mechanisms of multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is triggered by persistently activated immune cells, mainly B cells, as in reactivated Epstein-Barr virus infection. Activated immune cells release cytokines, the main one here being TNFa. A major role of TNFa is to support immune cell motility and tissue penetration, by promoting the breakdown of ceramide products that stabilize membranes (sphingomyelin (SPM) and galactosylceramide (GalCer)), by stimulating membrane breakdown via ceramide 1-phosphate-induced liberation of arachidonic acid, and by promoting the production of sphingosine 1-phosphate, a ceramide product that promotes immune motility. These ceramide products are expressed in endothelial cells, including the blood-brain barrier, and have a large presence in myelin. Thus, excessive cytokine release both allows immune penetration into the brain, and impairs existing myelin sheaths. SPM and GalCer are essential for myelin maintenance but not for its synthesis, explaining the dominant relapsing-remitting nature of the disease. The theory is supported by diverse evidence, and supports modern B cell-based treatment directions.

J. C. Maxwell, B. Riemann and H. Poincar$\acute{e}$ have proposed the idea that all microscopic particles are sink flows in a fluidic aether. Following this research program, a previous theory of gravitation based on a mechanical model of vacuum and a sink flow model of particles is generalized by methods of special relativistic continuum mechanics. In inertial reference frames, we construct a tensorial potential which satisfies the wave equation. Inspired by the equation of motion of a test particle, a definition of a metric tensor of a Riemannian spacetime is introduced. Applying Fock's theorem, generalized Einstein's equations in inertial systems are derived based on some assumptions. These equations reduce to Einstein's equations in case of weak field in harmonic reference frames. There exist some differences between this theory and Einstein's theory of general relativity.

Emphasis on primary health care (PHC) is the most efficient and economical approach to achieving universal health coverage. The aim of the study is to examine PHC publications from 2011 to 2023 in the Asian Pacific region (APR) using the Web of Science (WoS) database. Academic papers in the WoS PHC subject category published in the APR from 2011 to 2023 were retrieved and analyzed. A total of 4,283 papers were published in the WoS PHC category from APR onwards. The annual number of published papers and their citations increased from 2011 to 2023. Australia led PHC publications in APR with 3,049 publications (71.19% of APR regional output). New Zealand had the highest number of citations per paper (13.76) and the highest mean impact factor (3.23±1.80). Publications in the WoS PHC category also covered a wide range of topics, including Medicine General Internal (64.77%), Health Care Sciences Services (21.88%), Health Policy Services and Public Environmental Occupational Health (21.36%), demonstrating the breadth of PHC research. Australia dominates the output of PHC publications in the APR. Australian Family Physician and Australian Journal of Primary Health are the leading journals publishing PHC papers in the APR.

Traumatic pneumothorax (PTX) occurs in up to 50% of patients with severe polytrauma and chest injuries. Patients with traumatic PTX with clinical signs of tension physiology and hemodynamic instability are typically treated with an urgent decompressive thoracostomy, tube thoracostomy, or needle decompression. There is recent evidence that non-breathless patients with hemodynamically stable traumatic PTX can be managed conservatively through observation or a percutaneous pigtail catheter. We present here a 52-year-old woman who presented to the emergency department with 55 mm traumatic PTX. Following aspiration of 1500 ml of air, clinical improvement was immediately observed, allowing the patient to be discharged shortly thereafter. In hemodynamically stable patients with posttraumatic PTX, without specific risk factors or oxygen desaturation, observation or simple needle aspiration can be a reasonable approach. We aimed in this article to review the available literature on needle aspiration and conservative treatment of traumatic pneumothorax. A total of 12 studies were selected out of 190 articles on traumatic PTX, where conservative treatment versus chest tube decompression was compared. Our case report demonstrated that even a large PTX in a hemodynamically stable patient without other risk conditions, can be successfully treated conservatively with simple needle aspiration to avoid tube thoracostomy complications.

The composition of the gut microbiota varies among end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients on the basis of their mode of renal replacement therapy (RRT), with notably more pronounced dysbiosis in those undergoing hemodialysis (HD). Interventions such as dialysis catheters, unstable hemodynamics, strict dietary restrictions, and pharmacotherapy significantly alter the intestinal microenvironment, thus disrupting the gut microbiota composition in HD patients. The gut microbiota may influence HD-related complications, including cardiovascular disease (CVD), infections, anemia, and malnutrition, through mechanisms such as bacterial translocation, immune regulation, and the production of gut bacterial metabolites, thereby affecting both the quality of life and the prognosis of patients. This review focuses on alterations in the gut microbiota and its metabolites in HD patients. Additionally, understanding the impact of the gut microbiota on the complications of HD could provide insights into the development of novel treatment strategies to prevent or alleviate complications in HD patients.

Predictive studies are essential to establish fundamental data for monitoring and controlling Xylella fastidiosa infections in our country. Limited knowledge exists about how Xylella fastidiosa interacts with the plant host's immune system, leaving numerous unanswered questions regarding Xylella fastidiosa biology and its interactions with national plant hosts. Key inquiries include understanding of how the plant immune system interfaces with Xylella fastidiosa in the xylem and identifying the specific or shared mechanisms underlying the susceptibility of different hosts. Factors such as the presence of insect vectors, abundance of host plants, and climate suitability play pivotal roles in Xylella fastidiosa dispersal. We recommend that countries identified with relatively high risk, like Portugal, undertake thorough individual risk analyses. The implementation of preventive measures and, if necessary, the enhancement of surveillance systems for early detection of Xylella fastidiosa in plants and insect vectors are crucial steps. Additionally, raising awareness is of equal importance to mitigate socioeconomic and ecological impacts on their ecosystems.

The traditional understanding of brain function has predominantly focused on chemical and electrical processes. However, new research in fruit fly (Drosophila) binocular vision reveals ultrafast photomechanical photoreceptor movements significantly enhance information processing, thereby impacting a fly's perception of its environment and behaviour. The coding advantages resulting from these mechanical processes suggest that similar physical motion-based coding strategies may affect neural communication ubiquitously. The theory of neural morphodynamics proposes that rapid biomechanical movements and microstructural changes at the level of neurons and synapses enhance the speed and efficiency of sensory information processing, intrinsic thoughts, and actions by regulating neural information in a phasic manner. We propose that morphodynamic information processing evolved to drive predictive coding, synchronising cognitive processes across neural networks to match the behavioural demands at hand effectively.

Sechium compositum (Cucurbitaceae) is a wild species that is distributed in the Soconusco region, Chiapas, Mexico, and the border with Guatemala. This species has an intangible biochemical value resulting from the pharmacological relevance of its secondary metabolites. However, as a consequence of the lack of knowledge about its importance, it is being displaced from its habitat at an accelerated rate, incurring the risk of genetic loss. Therefore, an in vitro culture protocol with two experimental phases was evaluated to propagate, conserve, and regenerate this species. The first phases considered the multiplication of seedlings, adding seven concentrations (0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2 mg mL-1) of 6-benzylaminopurine (BA) and thidiazuron (TDZ) and evaluating the number of buds, shoots, and seedling height. The best multiplication response was recorded with 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, and 1.0 mg L-1 of BA and 0.1 mg L-1 of TDZ, as well as the MS base culture medium. With 0.1 mg L-1 of BA, 52-mm height, 1.36 shoots, and 9.22 buds were obtained, surpassing the MS control (MS culture medium alone); likewise, twice more roots (80%) and a 14% reduction in the bud structure were packed in 50 repetitions. The second phase consisted of inducing callus formation from stem and leaf explants through the addition of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mg L-1 of TDZ and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) to the medium. The results demonstrated that the induction of callogenesis in S. compositum has a better start from the stem in a medium with 2.0 mg L-1 of 2,4-D, whose value was 4.89 —equivalent to 97.8% callus formation around the explant. The addition of 500 mg L-1 of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) is also suggested to reduce oxidation. This protocol represents a significant advance in the conservation, multiplication, and callogenesis of S. compositum and contributes to its rescue and revaluation in the face of the danger of extinction.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) refers to the group of several interconnected risk factors that collectively double the risk of cardiovascular disease. Epilepsy is linked to MetS across all age groups, though its prevalence differs across various studies. This can be understood from the perspective of seizure-related metabolic abnormalities, long-term antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) use, and a more sedentary lifestyle due to epilepsy. The factors that are considered in developing MetS for patients with epilepsy (PWE) are age, residence, level of physical activity, food intake status, epilepsy subtype, epilepsy duration, current (AEDs) use, drug responsiveness status, body-mass index (BMI), total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels. A deeper understanding of the epilepsy-AED-MetS connection and the exploration of lifestyle interventions hold the promise of significantly improving the overall health and well-being of PWE. Clinicians managing PWE should closely monitor various risk factors for developing MetS and consider them when selecting AED treatment.

The notion of Critical Point Theory has extensive application in the filed of Partial Differential Equations, one of which is studying the existence and commenting on the uniqueness and multiplicity (in case when the solution is not unique) of weak solutions to Elliptic PDEs under certain boundary conditions.\par This article provides a brief survey about specific concepts like : differentiation on Banach Spaces, maxima and minima and its applications to PDEs. Furthermore, we've discussed the notion of defining a weak topology on Banach Spaces, before introducing the Variational Principle and its applications.\par The epilogue of the article primarily deals with results which studies the existence of weak solutions to Dirichlet Boundary Value Problems under specific conditions. The most notable aspect of this article is the proof of \textit{Rabinowitz's Saddle Point Theorem} using the method of \textit{Brouwer Degree}. Readers who are highly motivated in pursuing research in any of the topics relevent to the contents of this paper will surely find the \texttt{References} section to be extremely resourceful.

The unexploited unification of quantum physics, general relativity and biology is a keystone that paves the way towards a better understanding of the whole of Nature. Here we propose a mathematical approach that introduces the problem in terms of group theory. We build a cyclic groupoid (a nonempty set with a binary operation defined on it) that encompasses the three frameworks as subsets, representing two of their most dissimilar experimental results, i.e., 1) the commutativity detectable both in our macroscopic relativistic world and in biology; 2) and the noncommutativity detectable both in the microscopic quantum world and in biology. This approach leads to a mathematical framework useful in the investigation of the three apparently irreconcilable realms. Also, we show how cyclic groupoids encompassing quantum mechanics, relativity theory and biology might be equipped with dynamics that can be described by paths on the twisted cylinder of a Möbius strip.

This paper seeks to investigate the questions of: How does the constancy of the speed of light come about? Why does time dilation and length contraction occur? Are they physical effects with a mechanism? Does mass have a role is in these effects? Is Relativity an emergent phenomenon? The enquiry is along a different tact than the standard Lorentzian invariance canon but in the realm of readily known experimental facts or analogies and theory in the domain of wave propagation and solid state physics. These analogies, to almost prosaic physics, have a small following and are called Ether Theories, which modern physics has implicitly reinstated by General Relativity and Quantum Field Theories. In the category of Ether Theories based on analogies to solid state physics, this presentation is unique in not being Lorentz invariant; it is based on earlier papers by the author enquiring into the speed of coincidence counting of the Bell Inequality and a communication protocol. It is believed that Lorentz invariance emerges from the Ether and all Relativistic Mechanics can be built from the bottom up. The conclusion is that space-time is not really curved but the effects are all ascribable to mass gain.

We solve the problem of Apollonius by applying the Lorentz transformation within the frame- work of special relativity to go to a frame of simultaneity, where the solutions are the circum- center. We transform back to get the solutions in a general frame. We show that the solutions in a general frame are the foci of the ellipse going through the centers of the given 3 circles.

This paper presents research within the topic of special relativity. First, we show that time dilation and length contraction do not necessarily require that the speed of light be the same in all reference frames. It is only necessary to require that the speed of light be finite in any particular frame. Next, we demonstrate that the relativistic Doppler shift for electromagnetic waves has an analogue for extended material objects, and furnish an expression for the relative velocity of such objects in terms of what we call their "rest length shift''. An alternative velocity, which we call "rest velocity'', is then introduced to simplify the Lorentz transformation formulas. We also show that regular velocity can be regarded as the geometric average of the "rest velocity'' and another type of velocity we term "contracted velocity". We conclude by formulating the relationship between regular and "rest'' velocity for non-uniform motion in one, two, and three dimensions.

Background: Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases that infect wildlife, such as African swine fever, avian influenza, and SARS-CoV-2, have highlighted the necessity for wildlife health surveillance (WHS) due to their direct and indirect impacts on wildlife species, ecosystems, domestic animals, and human health. While global policies and guidelines exist, a critical gap remains in local-to-national implementation of WHS systems. A group of local, national, and global actors in WHS have formed a working group to address this gap. Methods and Findings: The working group reports on a theory of change (ToC) developed to implement WHS from local to global scales. Through brainstorming, plenary exercise, and building on peer-reviewed science and existing surveillance systems, we identified six transformative pathways to be implemented via collaborations across scales and contexts: mindset change, policy and investment, user-driven science, user-driven technologies, capacity enhancement, and mobilization of a global community of practice. Interpretation: This ToC serves as a roadmap to develop effective WHS systems that support adaptive management and implementation. WHS is fundamental to understanding the impacts of health threats to biodiversity and human and domestic animal health. This ToC presents an approach to operationalize integration of wildlife health into collaborative One Health surveillance. Funding: The Science for Nature and People Partnership.

Background: Patients with mutations in the monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8) suffer from Allan-Herndon-Dudley syndrome (AHDS), characterized by developmental delay and a highly disabling movement disorder. Despite the potential of thyroid hormone derivatives to overcome the transporter defect, current trials did not achieve patient-oriented therapeutic goals. Objectives: Since most neurological symptoms are related to the dopaminergic system, we investigated the role of dopamine and its metabolites in MCT8 deficiency with regard to pathophysiology and potential therapeutic strategies in an observational cohort study. Methods: We present longitudinal data from the DEEPTYPE registry of ten patients with video-documentation, standardized phenotyping, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, treatment response to levodopa/carbidopa supplementation, and neuroimaging data. To establish a cell-based model for pathophysiological studies, we differentiated healthy human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into dopaminergic neurons. Results: Children presented with signs of parkinsonism in childhood, including hypokinesia, hypomimia, inability to sit or stand, rigidity, dystonia, and autonomic dysfunction along the classification of Leuzzi and colleagues. Cerebrospinal fluid homovanillic acid concentrations were decreased (n=11), suggesting isolated dopamine pathway impairment. Six out of seven patients responded favorably to levodopa/carbidopa supplementation and we did not see any adverse drug reactions. Our cell-based studies showed that hiPSC-derived dopaminergic neurons expressed MCT8 and produced quantifiable levels of biogenic amines. Conclusions: Parkinsonism is part of AHDS's clinical presentation and may be amenable to treatment. The precise impact of MCT8 deficiency on the dopamine metabolism needs to be further elucidated, e.g. by using patient iPSC-derived dopaminergic neurons in future studies.

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

Medication non-adherence remains a substantial obstacle in asthma care, prompting the exploration of novel therapeutic modalities that prioritize rapid symptom relief, anti-inflammatory activity and facilitate patients’ compliance. This task is well served by a new form of therapy - inhaled triple-combination medications ICS/LABA/LAMA (inhaled glucocorticosteroid/long-acting beta2-agonist/long-acting muscarinic antagonist). The integration of three medications within a singular inhalation device culminates in the reduction of the effective dose of the principal therapeutic agent for asthma management, namely, ICS. This consolidation yields a dual benefit of minimizing the likelihood of adverse effects typically linked with ICS while concurrently optimizing bronchodilator efficacy. The accumulated evidence suggests that adding LAMA to a medium- or high-dose ICS/LABA results in a decrease of asthma exacerbations compared to medium- or high-dose ICS/LABA alone, accompanied by sustained enhancements in lung function parameters. We propose in adult patients experiencing suboptimal asthma control despite medium/high-dose ICS/LABA treatment - regardless of adherence to GINA-recommended strategies, such as MART therapy as a first-line approach or alternative second-line strategies - the preferred course for intensifying asthma therapy involves the addition of a LAMA, ideally in the form of SITT.

The right heart catheterisation constitutes the gold standard for pulmonary hypertension (PH) diagnosis. However, echocardiography remains a reliable, non-invasive, inexpensive, convenient, and easily reproducible modality not only for the preliminary screening of PH but also for PH prognosis. The aim of this review is to describe a cluster of echocardiographic parameters for the detection and prognosis of PH and analyse the challenges of echocardiography implementation in patients with suspected or established PH. The most important echocardiographic index is the calculation of pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP) through the tricuspid regurgitation (TR). It has shown high correlation with invasive measurement of pulmonary pressure, but several drawbacks have questioned its accuracy. Besides this, the right ventricular outflow track acceleration time (RVOT-AT) has been proposed for PH diagnosis. A plethora of echocardiographic indices: right atrial area, pericardial effusion, the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), the TAPSE/PASP ratio, tricuspid annular systolic velocity (s′) and recently, can reflect the severity and prognosis of PH. Recent advances in echocardiography with 3-dimensional right ventricular (RV) ejection fraction, RV free wall strain and right atrial strain may further assist the prognostication of PH.

Objective: Lower extremity ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) may occur with trauma-related vascular injury and various vascular diseases, during the use of a tourniquet, temporary clamping of the aorta in aortic surgery, and acute or bilateral acute femoral artery occlusion. Mitochondrial dysfunction and increased basal oxidative stress in diabetes may cause an increase in the effects of increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial dysfunction due to IRI. It is of great importance to examine therapeutic approaches that can minimize the effects of IRI, especially for patient groups under chronic oxidative stress. Cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles mimic the antioxidant enzymes and act as a catalyst that scavenges ROS. In this study, it was aimed to investigate whether CeO2 has protective effects on skeletal muscles in lower extremity IRI in mice with streptozocin-induced diabetes. Methods: A total of 38 Swiss albino mice were divided into six groups as follows: control group (group C, n=6), diabetes group (group D, n=8), diabetes-CeO2 (group DCO, n=8), diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion (group DIR, n=8), and diabetes-ischemia/reperfusion-CeO2 (group DIRCO, n=8). DCO and DIRCO groups were given doses of CeO2 0.5mg/kg intraperitoneally 30 minutes before the IR procedure. A 120-minute ischemia-120-minute reperfusion period with 100% O2 was performed. At the end of the reperfusion period, muscle tissues were removed for histopathological and biochemical examinations. Results: Total antioxidant status (TAS) levels were found to be significantly lower in group DIR compared with group D (p=0.047 and p=0.022, respectively). In group DIRCO and total oxidant status (TOS) levels were found to be significantly higher than in group DIR (p

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) can significantly impact mental health, increasing suicide risk. Variables such as pain and threat perception may be crucial. This study aims to identify predictors of suicide risk in individuals with CRC. Methods: A total of 71 participants (76.06% men) aged 27 to 88 years (M = 65.18, SD = 12.02) were assessed using the SF-36 for pain, the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (B-IPQ) for threat perception, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) for emotional distress, and the Plutchik suicide risk scale for suicide risk. Descriptive, comparative, and correlational analyses were performed, followed by a linear regression analysis. Results: Nearly 20% of participants exhibited high suicide risk. There was a moderate to high association between suicide risk and the perception of threat, pain, and emotional distress. The linear regression model explained 39% of the variance in suicide risk, with threat perception, pain, and emotional distress as significant predictors. Conclusions: These results indicate the need for multidisciplinary care for individuals with CRC, including emotional support from health psychologists, and holistic, human-centered care from nursing and medical professionals. Future research is necessary to further explore these relationships and improve patient care strategies.

Gastric inflammation-related disorders are commonly observed digestive system illnesses char-acterized by the activation of proinflammatory cytokines, particularly tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). This results in the induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)/prostaglandin E2 (PEG2) and matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP-9). These factors contribute to the pathogenesis of gastric in-flammation disorders. We examined the preventive effects of Lonicera japonica Thunb. ethanol ex-tract (Lj-EtOH) on gastric inflammation induced by TNF-α in normal GES-1 cells. The GES-1 cell line was used to establish a model that simulated the overexpression of COX-2/PGE2 and MMP-9 proteins induced by TNF-α, to examine the anti-inflammatory properties of Lj extracts. The re-sults indicated that Lj-EtOH exhibits significant inhibitory effects on COX-2/PEG2 and MMP-9 ac-tivity, attenuates cell migration, and provides protection against TNF-α-induced gastric inflam-mation. The protective effects of Lj-EtOH are associated with the modulation of COX-2/PEG2 and MMP-9 through activation of TNFR–ERK 1/2 signaling pathways as well as the involvement of c-Fos and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways. Based on our findings, Lj-EtOH ex-hibits a preventive effect on human gastric epithelial cells. Consequently, it may represent a novel treatment for the management of gastric inflammation.

A hybrid organic molecules as ligands and inorganic NCs in this research combines the chemical properties of organic semiconductors with the chemical stability of inor- ganic nanoparticles like PbS. It is possible to improve the ligand exchange and PbS-NCs' distribution by adding Amino phynel anchor group to TIPs-pentacene and Carboxylic anchor group to Tetraphenylporphyrin molecules. By adding anchor groups to one or two sides of these molecules, they would convert the molecules to ecient ligands to obtain superlattice coupled organic-inorganic nanostrcuture semicondcutor layers (COINs). Adding on side group would cap the PbS nanoparticles while adding two an- chor group would play a linker role between two PbS NCs. This morophology enhance- ment paves the way to manipulate the physical properties of the COINs and fabricate solar cells. Singlet ssion phenomena demonstrates pentacene molecule's advantage for high eciency in organic solar cells and its ability to overcome the Schockley-Queisser limit. Ultraviolet photo-emission spectroscopy (UPS) determines the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the work function of COINs, while the lowest unoccu- pied molecular orbital (LUMO) of COINs were calculated subsequently by adding both the exciton binding energy and the optical band gap to the measured HOMO energy. The current versus voltage characteristics and impedance spectroscopy were studied for these molecules as well.

Background: The adoption of self-care behaviors among patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) is essential for the management of their health condition. However, there is a lack of tools for estimating self-care in CHF patients. We aim to develop and validate the Hippocratic heart failure self-care scale (HHFSCS). Methods: the scale includes 22 items which are reviewed by a committee of experts. Individuals indicate the frequency at which they follow each self-behavior on a five-point Likert scale. Adult patients with CHF (n=250) from a General Hospital, in Athens, were participated in the study from June 2020 to March 2021. Reliability coefficients and Explanatory Factor Analysis (EFA), using a Varimax rotation and the Principal Components Method were used to assess the psychometric measurements. Results: The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the HHFSCS was 0.807. The exploratory factor analysis identified two domains that accounted for 88.44% of the variance of the scale items; however, each sub-scale could not be used as an independent scale. Finally, the test-retest showed a significant strong correlation (r=0.973, p&lt;0.001). Conclusions: The HHFSCS is a reliable and valid tool for assessing self-behaviors in CHF patients. Health professionals can use it in their clinical practice to improve the management of patient’s health conditions.

Introduction Delayed intra-operative neuro-monitoring (IOM) events can be defined as loss of responses, after baseline traces were present upon completion of instrumentation and deformity correction. This study reports this subgroup of events, assesses their incidence and evaluates potential causative factors. Methods We reviewed 1881 consecutive patients who underwent spinal deformity correction between 2011 and 2021. Surgeries were performed using a standardised anaesthetic regimen and multimodal IOM protocol. Results 44 patients (2.4%) had an IOM event. 9 patients (6F:3M) had a true positive delayed event after posterior segmental pedicle screw instrumentation. Mean age was 12.5 (2-17) years with mean thoracic Cobb angle of 78° (51-94°). Mean estimated blood loss was 28%. Titanium beam shaped rods were utilised in 3 patients and 5.5mm titanium rods in 5 patients. Motor evoked potentials were lost on average 18 (10-30) minutes after completion of instrumentation. 7 patients had bilateral loss and 2 patients had unilateral loss of MEP traces. Sensory evoked potential amplitude was preserved in all cases. There was a transient latency shift in one patient. MEPs returned within 20 minutes of rod release. The rod was re-contoured to incorporate more scoliosis in 1 patient. 2 patients had beam rods exchanged to 5.5mm titanium rods. 6 patients had rod removal with retention of pedicle screws and staged completion of instrumentation at mean 5 (1-7) days later. No patients had a postoperative neurological deficit. Conclusion Delayed IOM loss represented 15% of all events. Increased cord tension and hypo-perfusion were considered likely mechanisms. Rod release restored MEPs in all cases. The timing of events emphasises the importance of continued monitoring for minimum 30 minutes after completion of spinal instrumentation or until wound closure.

Similarly to his special theory of relativity, Einstein's special principle of relativity extends beyond the limits currently known to it. Up to now, the principle has not been suspected to have the potential to translate laws. However, the principle holds an inherent capacity to translate physical laws and, in so doing, speeds up our understanding and control of physical reality. Such a translation of laws leads to the faster discovery of other laws, such as the Laws of Electronic Motion, characterizing the motion of electrons around the atomic nucleus, and the Third Law of Biological Resistance, facilitating the successful control of drug resistance in medicine. The ability of the special principle of relativity to translate laws shines forth once the said principle is duly interpreted. This interpretation exposes a parallelism between experimental frames of reference and justifies the applicability of the laws of one frame of reference in other parallel frames of reference. This process opens the door to our faster discovery of the laws governing a multiplicity of frames parallel to a frame we already know the laws of. In practice, the interpretation of Einstein's special principle of relativity speeds up our understanding of the workings of physical reality and strengthens our capacity to subdue matter.