Background: Smad4, a critical tumor suppressor gene, plays a significant role in pancreatic biology and tumorigenesis. Genetic background and sex are known to influence phenotypic outcomes, but their impact on pancreatic weight in Smad4-deficient mice remains unclear. This study investigates the impact of Smad4 deficiency on pancreatic weight in F1 mice from diverse Collaborative Cross (CC) lines, focusing on the influence of genetic background and sex. Methods: F1 mice were generated by crossbreeding female CC mice with C57BL/6J-Smad4tm1Mak males. Genotyping confirmed the presence of Smad4 knockout alleles. Mice were housed under standard conditions, euthanized at 80 weeks, and their pancreatic weights were measured, adjusted for body weight, and analyzed for effects of Smad4 deficiency, sex, and genetic background. Results: The overall population of F1 mice showed a slight but non-significant increase in adjusted pancreatic weights in heterozygous knockout mice compared to wild-type mice. Sex-specific analysis revealed no significant difference in males but a significant increase in adjusted pancreatic weights in heterozygous knockout females. Genetic background analysis showed that lines CC018 and CC025 substantially increased adjusted pancreatic weights in heterozygous knockout mice. In contrast, other lines showed no significant difference or varied non-significant changes. The interplay between genetic background and sex further influenced these outcomes. Conclusion: Smad4 deficiency affects pancreatic weight in a manner significantly modulated by genetic background and sex. This study highlights the necessity of considering these factors in genetic research and therapeutic development, demonstrating the value of the Collaborative cross-mouse population in dissecting complex genetic interactions.

The jalapeño pepper is a vegetable of great economic importance worldwide. However, low germination efficiency, weak seedlings, and a high mortality rate during transplant compromise the viability and sustainability of the crop. An innovative solution is the nanopriming tech-nique, an emerging and novel technology, which involves the imbibition of seeds for a specific period using mineral nanoparticles. The addition of micronutrients such as Zinc and Molyb-denum has been used in seed germination and early seedling development due to their crucial roles. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of using Zinc-Molybdenum nano-priming in Jalapeño Pepper on germination and early growth. The results showed that applying nanopriming 124-10 mg L−1 of Zinc-Molybdenum promotes effectiveness on the imbibition and germination of jalapeño pepper seeds, resulting in heavier seeds with better initial absorption. This method not only improves germination rates and seedling vigor but also points towards more sustainable and efficient agriculture. Building on these findings, the Zinc-Molybdenum nanopriming method could potentially transform jalapeño pepper cultivation by enhancing seed quality and resilience. This could lead to more robust crop yields and reduce the need for chemical inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides, thus lowering production costs and environ-mental impact.

In the paper, we prove a joint limit theorem in terms of weak convergence of probability measures on $\mathbb{C}^2$ defined by means of the Epstein ζ(s;Q) and Hurwitz ζ(s,α) zeta-functions. The limit measure in the theorem is explicitly given. For this, some restrictions on the matrix Q and parameter α are required. The theorem obtained extends and generalizes Bohr-Jessen’s results characterising asymptotic behaviour of the Riemann zeta-function.

Predators are dependent on the capture of prey to meet their energetic and nutritive requirements, imposing a regime of predation risk. Consequently, prey experience both consumptive and non-consumptive effects. Non-consumptive effects may manifest through altered growth and ontogenetic trajectories of prey species, a dynamic modulated by olfactory or other sensory cues from predators. Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel represents a great invasive threat to global horticulture. While earlier research has primarily centered on the consumptive interactions between B. dorsalis and its natural enemies, the potential consequences of non-consumptive interactions on the development of B. dorsalis have been overlooked. In this study, we investigated the impact of predation risk effects, induced by both visual exposure to the predatory mantis Hierodula patellifera Serville and its associated odor, on the life history traits of B. dorsalis. Female B. dorsalis demonstrated reduced development time in the presence of isolated H. patellifera or H. patellifera odor, yet evidenced significantly increased fecundity. Conversely, males displayed no significant change in development time. Additionally, neither female nor male body weight at death was significantly influenced by predation risk from isolated predators or predator odor. These results indicated adaptive developmental strategies of B. dorsalis when faced with risks from predators and highlight the important role of predator odor, which has the potential to lay the groundwork for improving biological control efforts and innovative approaches within pest control.

The profile of secondary metabolites occurring in apple cuticular layer is not only characteristic for particular apple cultivar, but also dynamically reflects various external factors in growing environment. In this study, the possibility to authenticate apple samples based on analysis of their cuticular layer extracts was investigated. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS) was employed for obtaining metabolomic fingerprints. In total, 274 authentic apple samples, four cultivars harvested within the seasons 2020 to 2022 in the Czech Republic and Poland were analysed. The generated complex data processed by univariate and multivariate statistical methods enabled to build classification models for discrimination of apple cultivars as well as their geographical origin. The models showed very good performance in differentiation of Czech and Polish samples for three of four cultivars: ‘Gala’, ‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Idared’, moreover, the validity of the models was verified over harvest seasons. The diagnostic markers, besides metabolites of triterpene biosynthetic pathway, mainly represented wax esters. ‘Jonagold’, which is known to be susceptible to mutations, was the only cultivar for which the unambiguous classification of geographical origin was not possible.

Berberis vulgaris (L.) has remarkable ethnopharmacological properties and is widely used in traditional medicine. The present study investigates B. vulgaris stem bark (Berberidis cortex) by extraction with 50% ethanol. The main secondary metabolites were quantified, resulting in a polyphenols content of 17.6780 ± 3.9320 mg Eq Tannic acid / 100 g extract, phenolic acids amount of 3.3886 ± 0.3481 mg Eq Chlorogenic acid / 100 g extract and 78.95 µg/g berberine. The dried hydro-ethanolic extract (BVE) was thoroughly analyzed using Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC–HRMS/MS) and HPLC and 40 bioactive phenolic constituents were identified. Then, the antioxidant potential of BVE was evaluated using three methods; our results could explain the protective effects of Berberidis cortex EC50FRAP = 0.1398 mg/mL, IC50ABTS = 0.0442 mg/mL, IC50DPPH = 0.2610 mg/mL compared to ascorbic acid (IC50 = 0.0165 mg/mL). Next, the acute toxicity and teratogenicity of BVE and Berberine - Berberine sulfate hydrate (BS) - investigated on Daphnia sp reported significant BS toxicity after 24 h; BVE revealed considerable toxicity after 48 hours and induced embryonic developmental delays. Finally, the anticancer effects of BVE and BS were evaluated on different tumor cell lines after 24 and 48 hours of treatments. The MTS assay evidenced a dose- and time-dependent antiproliferative activity, higher on BS than BVE. The strongest diminution of tumor cell viability was recorded on breast (MDA-MB-231), colon (LoVo) cancer, and OSCC (PE/CA-PJ49) cell lines after 48 h of exposure (IC50 < 100 µg/mL). However, no cytotoxicity was reported on normal epithelial cells (HUVEC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HT-29) cell lines. Extensive data analysis supports our results, showing a significant correlation between the BVE's concentration, phenolic compounds content, antioxidant activity, exposure time, and the viability rate of various normal cells and cancer cell lines.

There are laws and rights aimed at people with disabilities, especially those with Mild Intellectual Disability (LDD), who actively participate in society but face barriers in learning and participating in various activities. In Colombia, where 1.3 million people with disabilities are registered, 16.8% correspond to the category of DIL, some of whom are part of the economically active population. Despite this, significant employment gaps persist.In order to address this gap, this research focuses on the analysis of the specific problems related to the labor inclusion of people with IDL in logistics environments, particularly in cold rooms. The aim is to prevent occupational hazards through the application of Industry 4.0 technologies.Through the collaboration of the Analytics and Design Research Seedbed, with entrepreneurs and experts in the field, significant challenges in labor inclusion in low-temperature environments were identified. The agile Scrum methodology was used to develop a prototype of an application that addresses these issues. This prototype meets the functional and non-functional requirements necessary to ensure the protection and prevention of risks for workers with DIL who perform functions in refrigerated rooms.This prototype manages to provide an inclusive alternative for people with disability Intellectual Light, challenging business cultural paradigms, by integrating mobile devices with Industry 4.0 technologies, encouraging greater interaction between machines and human beings, thus prioritizing the health and safety of employees in their daily activities.

Transitions from seed to seedling represent a critical developmental step in the life cycle of higher plants, dramatically affecting plant ontogenesis and stress tolerance. The release from dormancy to acquiring the germination ability is defined by a balance of phytohormones, with a substantial contribution of abscisic acid (ABA), which inhibits germination. We studied the embryonic axes of Pisum sativum L. before and after radicle protrusion. Our previous work compared RNA sequencing-based transcriptomics in the embryonic axes isolated before and after radicle protrusion. The current study aims to analyze ABA-dependent gene regulation during the transition of embryonic axes from germination to post-germination stage. First, we determined the levels of abscisates (ABA, phaseic acid, dihydrophaseic acid, and neo-phaseic acid) using the ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Second, we made a detailed annotation of ABA-associated genes using RNA sequencing-based transcriptome profiling. Finally, we analyzed the DNA methylation pattern in the promoters of the PsABI3, PsABI4, and PsABI5 genes. We showed that changes in the abscisate profile are characterized by the accumulation of ABA catabolites, and the ABA-related gene profile is accompanied by the upregulation of genes controlling the seedling development and the downregulation of genes controlling the water deprivation. The expression of ABI3, ABI4 and ABI5, which encode the crucial transcription factors during late maturation, was downregulated by more than 20-fold, and their promoters exhibited a high level of methylation already at the late germination stage. Thus, although ABA remains important, other regulators seems to be involved in the transition from seed to seedling.

In the face of climate change, bringing more useful alleles and genes from wild relatives of wheat is crucial to develop climate-resilience varieties. We used two populations of backcrossed recombinant inbred lines (BIL1 and BIL2), developed using two intra-specifically diverse Aegilops tauschii accessions from lineage 1 and lineage 2, respectively, and backcrossing to common wheat cultivar ‘Norin 61’. The study aimed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with heat stress (HS) tolerance. The two BILs were evaluated under heat stress environments in Sudan for phenology, plant height (PH), grain yield (GY), biomass (BIO), harvest index (HI), and thousand kernel weight (TKW). Grain yield was significantly correlated with BIO and TKW under HS; therefore, stress tolerance index (STI) was calculated for these traits as well as for GY. A total of 16 heat tolerant lines were identified based on GY and STI-GY. The QTL analysis performed using inclusive composite interval mapping identified a total of 40 QTLs in BIL1 and 153 QTLs in BIL2 across all environments. We detected 39 QTLs associated with GY-STI, BIO-STI, and TKW-STI in both populations (14 in BIL1 and 25 in BIL2). The QTL associated with STI were detected on chromosomes 1A, 3A, 5A, 2B, 4B, and all the D-subgenomes. We found that QTL detected only under HS for GY on chromosome 5A, TKW on 3B and 5B, PH on 3B and 4B, and grain filling duration on 2B. The higher number of QTLs identified in BIL2 for heat stress tolerance suggests the importance of assessing the effects of intraspecific variation of Ae. tauschii in wheat breeding as it could modulate the heat stress responses/adaptation. Our study provides useful genetic resources for uncovering heat-tolerant QTLs for wheat improvement for heat stress environments.

Limited research has been conducted on the metabolites present in the essential oils (EOs) of Phlomoides rotata (Benth. ex Hook. f.) Mathiesen (PR, syn. Lamiophlomis rotata (Benth.) Kudô), and their potential pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant properties, are often overlooked. We conducted a metabolomics-based screening to identify the characteristic metabolites (CMs) in the EOs extracted from PR. Meanwhile, we evaluated their in vitro antioxidant activities (AOAs). The EOs obtained through hydro-distillation are characterized by a light yellow color and a fresh, elegant fragrance. Cryoprecipitation was used to separate the crystals (Crs) from the EOs, resulting in the crystal-free EOs (CFs). A total of 121 components are identified and quantified in the EOs, Crs, and CFs. Among them, 84 were reported for the first time from such EOs. The major compounds include long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs) and their esters, such as palmitic acid (PA), myristic acid (MA), linoleic acid (LA), oleic acid (OA), stearic acid, and methyl palmitate (MP). Furthermore, 11 kinds of apocarotenoids (also called norisoprenoids) were first systematically investigated. Among them, eight C13-norisoprenoids, with trans-β-damascenone (DN) being particularly notable for its flavor, were identified. A sum of 11 CMs are screened , including PA, MA, LA, OA, MP, hexahydrofarnesyl acetone, phytol (PT), DN, stearic acid, linalool, and hexanal. These CMs are biosynthesized through FAs and 2-C-Methyl-D-erythritol 4-phosphate/1-Deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate pathways. The in vitro AOAs of EOs, Crs, CFs, and seven selected CMs (PA, MA, LA, OA, MP, PT, and DN) were evaluated. Generally, PA and MA exhibited pro-oxidant activities (POAs) or weak AOAs. LA and OA demonstrated POAs or weak AOAs at lower concentrations, but at higher concentrations, they displayed medium to strong AOAs. Importantly, the CFs typically exhibited stronger AOAs compared to the corresponding EOs and Crs, potentially due to variations in their PA content. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the potential utilization of EOs from PR.

Abstract: Human endogenous retroviruses (HERV) are remnants of ancient retroviral infections that, over millions of years, became integrated into the human genome. While normally inactive, environmental stimuli such as infections have contributed to the transcriptional reactivation of HERV promoting pathological conditions including the devel-opment of autoimmunity, neurodegenerative disease and cancer. What infections then trigger HERV activation? Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) is a pluripotent driver of human disease. Aside from granu-lomatous diseases Crohn’s, sarcoidosis and Blau syndrome, MAP is associated with autoimmune disease: type one diabetes (T1D), multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune thyroiditis. MAP is also associated with Parkinson’s disease. Autoimmune diabetes, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis are the diseases with the strongest MAP/HERV association. There are several other diseases associated with HERV activation including diseases whose epidemiology and/or pathology would prompt speculation for a causal role of MAP. These include non-solar uveal melanoma, colon cancer, glioblastoma and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This article further points to MAP infection as a contributor to autoimmunity, neurodegenerative disease and cancer via unsilencing of HERV. We examine the link between the ever-increasing number of MAP- associated diseases, the MAP/HERV intersection with these diverse medical conditions and propose treatment opportunities based upon this association.

Dendropanax morbifera Leveille is a traditional medicine used to treat migraine headache and dysmenorrhea. In this study, a new phenolic glycoside, morbiferoside A (1), and three polyacetylenes, methyl (10E,9R,16R)-16-acetoxy-9-hydroxyoctadeca-10,17-dien-12,14-diynoate (2), methyl (10E,9R,16S)-9,16-dihydroxyoctadeca-10-en-12,14-diynoate (3), and methyl (10Z,9R,16S)-9,16-dihydroxyoctadeca-10,17-dien-12,14-diynoate (4), were isolated from the aerial parts of D. morbifera, together with seven known compounds (5–11). Importantly, the isolates, 7 and 9 were found in the family Araliaceae for the first time in this study. Compounds 1−11 were evaluated for their binding affinity to AMPK and CTSS receptors using in silico docking simulations. Only compound 8 increased the protein expression levels of PPAR-α, Sirt1, and AMPK when administered to HepG2 cells as a PPAR-α agonist. On the other hand, 8 did not produce any significant reduction in CTSS activity. This study could pave the way for the discovery of novel treatments from D. morbifera targeting PPAR-α and AMPK.

Testosterone holds significant medical and economic importance, with the global market for testosterone replacement therapies valued at approximately $1.9 billion in 2023. This hormone is essential for the development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics as well as bone and muscle health. It plays a key role in conditions such as hypogonadism, muscle disorders, and andropause. However, the industrial production of testosterone often involves complex chemical processes that result in low yields, high costs, and environmental damage. Microbial biotransformation of steroids presents an eco-friendly alternative to traditional chemical synthesis. A knockout strain of Aspergillus nidulans deficient in steroid 11-α-hydroxylase activity was developed, rendering it incapable of hydroxylating androstenedione, progesterone, and testosterone. In this strain, two newly identified CYP450 enzymes—CYP68L1 from A. nidulans and CYP68L8 from Aspergillus ochraceus—were expressed to confirm their roles as steroid 11-α-hydroxylases. These enzymes successfully hydroxylated steroids such as androstenedione, progesterone, and testosterone. The availability of these 11-α-hydroxylases represents significant progress toward achieving efficient single-step steroid fermentation. Furthermore, the A. nidulans knockout strain is proposed as an effective model for studying the conversion of androstenedione to testosterone owing to its inability to hydroxylate the testosterone produced during bioconversion.

The infections of bacterial origin represent a significant problem to public healthcare worldwide both in clinical and community settings. Recent decade was marked by limiting treatment options for bacterial infections due to growing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) acquired and transferred by various bacterial species, especially the ones causing healthcare-associated infections, which has become a dangerous issue noticed by the World Health Organization. Numerous reports shown that the spread of AMR is often driven by several species-specific lineages usually called the ‘global clones of high risk’. Thus, it is essential to track the isolates belonging to such clones and investigate the mechanisms of their pathogenicity and AMR acquisition. Currently, the whole genome-based analysis is increasingly used for these purposes, including epidemiological surveillance and analysis of mobile elements involved in resistance transfer. However, in spite of the exponential growth of available bacterial genomes, their representation usually lack uniformity and availability of supporting metadata, which creates a bottleneck for such investigations. In this dataset, we provide the results of a comprehensive genomic epidemiology analysis of 61,857 genomes of a dangerous bacterial pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae. Important typing information including multilocus sequence typing (MLST)-based sequence types (STs), assignment of the isolates to known global clones, capsular (KL) and lipooligosaccharide (O) types, presence of CRISPR-Cas systems, and cgMLST profiles are given, and the presence of AMR and virulence genes within the genomes is also reported. This dataset will be useful for researchers in the field of K. pneumoniae genomic epidemiology, resistance analysis and prevention measure development.

Selection is a fundamental part of the plant breeding process, enabling the identification and development of varieties with desirable traits. Thanks to advances in genetics and biotechnology, the selection process has become more precise and efficient, resulting in faster breeding progress and better adaptation of crops to environmental challenges. Genetic parameters related to gene additivity and epistasis play a key role and can influence decisions on the suitability of breeding material. In this study, 188 rapeseed doubled haploid lines were assessed in field conditions for resistance to Leptosphaeria spp. Through next-generation sequencing, a total of 133,764 molecular markers (96,121 SilicoDArT and 37,643 SNP) were obtained. The similarity of the DH lines at the phenotypic and genetic levels was calculated. The results indicate that the similarity at the phenotypic level was markedly different than the similarity at the genetic level. Genetic parameters related to additive gene action effects and epistasis (double and triple) were calculated using two methods: based on phenotypic observations only and using molecular marker observations. All evaluated genetic parameters (additive, additive-additive and additive-additive-additive) were statistically significant for both estimation methods. The parameters associated with the interaction (double and triple) had opposite signs depending on the estimation method.

The prevalence of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections, particularly carbapenem-resistant strains, has become a significant global health concern. Ceftazidime-avibactam (CZA) has emerged as a promising treatment option. However, data on its efficacy and safety in children are scarce, necessitating further investigation. We conducted a retrospective study at a tertiary hospital in Spain from February 2019 to January 2022. Pediatric patients (<16 years) treated with CZA for confirmed or suspected multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections were included. Clinical and microbiological characteristics, treatment approaches, and outcomes were examined. Eighteen children received CZA treatment. All had complex chronic conditions, with the most frequent underlying main diseases being liver transplantation (n=8) and biliary atresia (n=4). The predominant type of infection for which they received CZA was intra-abdominal infections caused or suspected to be caused by OXA-48-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae. CZA was generally well tolerated. Within the first month of starting CZA therapy, 2 patients died, with one case directly linked to the infection’s fatal outcome. Some patients needed repeated courses of therapy due to recurrent infections, yet no resistance development was noted. In summary, the use of CZA showed effectiveness and safety, while the lack of resistance development highlights CZA’s potential as a primary treatment option against OXA-48-producing infections.

The study assessed the trapping efficacy of locally-modified 1) Gravid Aedes Trap(GAT) lined with insecticide-treated net (ITN) as a killing agent, 2) Autocidal Gravid Ovitrap(AGO) with sticky board in the semi-field system (SFS) and field setting. Fully-balanced Latin square experiments were conducted to compare GAT lined with ITN vs AGO, both with either yeast or grass infusion. Biogents-Sentinel (BGS) with BG-Lure and no CO2 was used as standard trap for Aedes mosquitoes. In the SFS, GAT outperformed AGO in collecting both nulliparous (65% vs 49%,OR=2.22,[95%CI:1.89-2.60],p

Blocking the interaction of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein with the human angiotensin-converting enzyme II (hACE2) protein serves as a therapeutic strategy for treating COVID-19. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatments containing bioactive products could alleviate the symptoms of severe COVID-19. However, the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants has complicated the process of developing broad-spectrum drugs. As such, the aim in this study was to explore the efficacy of TCM treatments for SARS-CoV-2 variants through targeting the interaction of the viral spike protein with the hACE2 receptor. The antiviral activity was systematically evaluated using a pseudovirus system. Scutellaria baicalensis was found to be effective against SARS-CoV-2 infection through affecting the interaction of viral spike protein with the hACE2 protein. The active molecules of S. baicalensis were identified and analyzed. Baicalein and baicalin, a flavone and a flavone glycoside, respectively, found in S. baicalensis, exhibited strong inhibitory activities, targeting the viral spike protein or hACE2 protein, respectively. Under optimized conditions, virus infection was inhibited by 98% via baicalein-treated pseudovirus and baicalin-treated hACE2. In summary, we identified the potential SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors of the interaction of the Omicron spike protein and hACE2 receptor from S. baicalensis. Future studies on the therapeutic application of baicalein and baicalin against SARS-CoV-2 variants are needed.

A reduction of melatonin function contributes to the acceleration of Alzheimer's disease (AD), and understanding molecular processes of melatonin-related signaling is critical for intervention of AD progression. Recently, we synthesized and tested a series of melatonin derivates with donepezil fragments in silico and in vitro. In this study, one of the most potent compounds, 3c, was studied in an in vivo rat model of pinealectomy (pin) and subsequent icvAβ1-42 infusion. Melatonin was used as a referent drug. The treatment with melatonin and 3c (10 mg/kg, i.p. for 14 days) exerted a beneficial effect on memory decline and concomitant rise of Aβ1-42 and pTAU in the hippocampus in the pin + icvAβ1-42 rats. Melatonin supplementation facilitated the non-amyloidogenic signaling via a non-receptor (histone deacetylase sirtuin 1, SIRT1) and receptor-related signaling (MT/ERK/CREB). The hybrid 3c derivate up-regulated the MT1A and MT2B receptors, pERK and pCREB. Our findings strongly support the hypothesis that melatonin-related derivates may become a promising drug candidate in AD therapy.

To delve into the structure-function relationship of transmembrane proteins (TMPs), robust protocols are needed to produce them in a pure, stable, and functional state. Among all hosts that express heterologous TMPs, E. coli has the lowest cost and fastest turnover. However, many of the expressed in E. coli TMPs are misfolded. Several strategies have been developed to either direct the foreign TMPs to E. coli’s membrane or retain them in a cytosolic soluble form to overcome this deficiency. Here, we summarize protein engineering methods to produce chimera constructs of the desired TMPs fused to either signal peptide or precursor maltose binding protein (pMBP) to direct the entire construct to the periplasm, therefore depositing the fused TMP in the plasma membrane. We further describe strategies to produce TMPs in soluble form by utilizing N-terminally fused MBP without signal peptide. Depending on its N- or C-terminus location, a fusion to apolipoprotein A-I can either direct the TMP to the membrane or shield the hydrophobic regions of the TMP, maintaining the soluble form. Strategies to produce G-protein coupled receptors, TMPs of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, HIV-1 Vpu, and other TMPs are discussed. This knowledge could increase the scope of TMPs’ expression in E. coli.

The spatial and temporal variability in dietary preferences of juvenile three-spined stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus, was studied across typical coastal habitats of Keret Archipelago, Kandalaksha Bay, the White Sea. Sampling of fish using beach seine was implemented in late July-early August and in late August, and zooplankton samples were collected to make a quantitative evaluation of abundance of potential prey items. Similarity Percentage (SIMPER) analysis implemented over the data obtained from stomach content analysis revealed five planktonic taxa mostly contributing to the diet of juvenile sticklebacks, of which copepod Temora longicornis was the most important prey item at marine sites, while Acartia longiremis prevailed in diet of fishes in marine lagoon. Calculation of selectivity index demonstrated that some taxa (e.g., A. longiremis) were always avoided by juvenile fishes, others (e.g. Microsetella norvegica) were firstly avoided and then selected in late August. Calculation of selectivity index was implemented per sample and per individual fish indicated that taxa like T. longicornis and were selected during the whole period of study, fishes demonstrated pronounced individual variation in prey selectivity. In general, data on selectivity indicated that despite juvenile sticklebacks feed on mostly available prey items, they can demonstrate taxonomic and size-specific prey selectivity.

Despite nearly a century of research on water related issues, water erosion remains one of the greatest threats to soil health and soil ecosystem services around the world. Yet to date, data on water erosion needed to develop mitigation strategies is scarce, especially in the Sahelian regions. The current study therefore sets out to estimate annual soil losses caused by water erosion and to analyze trends over the period of 1981-2020 in the Mékrou watershed, located in the Middle Niger river sub-basin in West Africa. The revised universal soil loss equation, remote sensing and the Geographic Information System (GIS) were deployed in this study. Several types of data were used, including rainfall, soil conditions, topography and satellite images. The estimated average annual amount of water erosion in the Mékrou watershed is 6.49 t/ha/yr over 1981-2020. The dynamics of the ten-year average are highly variable, with a minimum of 3.45 t/ha/yr between 1981 and 1990, and a maximum of 8.50 t/ha/yr between 1991 and 2000. Even though these average soil losses in the Mékrou basin are below the tolerable threshold of 10 t/ha/yr, mitigation actions are needed for prevention. In addition, the spatial dynamics of water erosion are noticeably heterogeneous. The study reveals that 72.7% of the surface area of the Mékrou watershed is subject to slight water erosion below the threshold, compared with 27.3%, particularly in the mountainous south-western part, which is subject to intense erosion above the threshold.

Background: Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition that significantly affects the daily life of those who suffer from it, requiring complex and personalized management with active participation of the patient in the management of their disease. Objective: to describe the design and development process of a mobile application, using the Design Thinking method, for the follow-up of patients with atopic dermatitis. Methods: User-centered design and prototype creation method, differentiating the phases of the empathize, define, idea, prototype, and test. A purposive snowball sampling was used to recruit patients with atopic dermatitis, family members, and health professionals. Three two-hour workshops were held, attended by 25 people. Results: the parameters to be monitored will include objective data (physical, behavioral, treatments, environmental, integration of daily routines) and subjective data (user experience). On the other hand, it will figure out behavior patterns, set up rewards, foster a feeling of community, and use notifications and a chatbot. Conclusion: The active integration of all stakeholders at each stage of the design and development of the digital solution has improved its relevance and acceptance, resulting in a tool that is expected to significantly improve the management of atopic dermatitis.

Long-range HNCO NMR spectra for proteins show crosspeaks due to 1JNC, 2JNC, 3JNCg and h3JNC couplings. The h3JNC couplings are transmitted through hydrogen bonds and are correlated to hydrogen bond lengths. We collected long-range HNCO data at a series of temperatures for four protein states. P22i and CUS-3i are six-stranded beta-barrel I-domains from phages P22 and CUS-3 that share less than 40% sequence identity. The cis and trans states of the C-terminal domain from pore-forming toxin hemolysin ΙΙ (HlyIIC) arise from isomerization of a single G404-P405 peptide bond. For P22i and CUS-3i the hydrogen bonds detected by NMR agree with those observed in the corresponding domains from cryoEM structures of the two phages. Hydrogen bond lengths derived from the h3JNC couplings, however, are poorly conserved between the distantly related CUS-3i and P22i domains and show differences even between the cis and trans states of HlyIIC. This is consistent with hydrogen bond lengths being determined by local differences in structure rather than the overall folding topology. With increasing temperature hydrogen bonds typically show an apparent increase in length, which has been attributed to protein thermal expansion. Some hydrogen bonds are invariant with temperature, however, while others show apparent decreases in length suggesting they become stabilized with increasing temperature. Considering the data for the three proteins in this study and previously published data for ubiquitin and GB3, lowered protein folding stability and cooperativity correlates with a larger range of temperature responses for hydrogen bonds. This suggests a partial uncoupling of hydrogen bond energetics from global unfolding cooperativity as protein stability decreases.

This study delves into the performance evaluation of an avant-garde technology in mobile communications known as Large Intelligent Surface (LIS), poised to be an integral component of the sixth-generation (6G) networks. This groundbreaking technology has the potential to markedly augment the Signal-to-Interference plus Noise Ratio (SINR) by orchestrating signals originating from the base station through a network of digitally controlled reflectors meticulously engineered to modulate the phase of incoming electromagnetic waves. A LIS can establish a Line of Sight (LoS) within channels that inherently do not have a LoS. In addition, it can also be optimized to increase transmission security by ensuring that the signal reaches only the target users of the message with better quality. In this study, analytical expressions were derived to calculate the distribution parameters, the bit error probability, and the secrecy outage probability. These calculations consider the presence of an eavesdropper link, highlighting the potential of the LIS to increase the confidentiality of digital communication systems. The accuracy of the proposed formulas was demonstrated by showing how the performance of the LIS varies with different design parameters and environmental fading.

In an $m$-person symmetric game, all players are identical and indistinguishable. In this paper, we find that the payoff tensor of the player $k$ in an $m$-person symmetric game is $k$-mode symmetric, and the payoff tensors of two different individuals are the transpose of each other. Furthermore, we reformulate the $m$-person symmetric game as a tensor complementary problem and demonstrate that locating a symmetric Nash equilibrium is equivalent to finding a solution to the resulting tensor complementary problem. Finally, we use the hyperplane projection algorithm to solve the resulting tensor complementary problem, and we present some numerical results to find the symmetric Nash equilibrium.

The Musa textilis var. Abuab has high fiber quality (FQ) but has low resistance against abaca bunchy top virus (AbBTV); the Musa balbisiana var. Pacol, has low FQ but high resistance against AbBTV. Their backcrosses (BC2 and BC3) possess both desirable traits. Analysis using RNA-seq showed that the regulatory divergence of Abuab and Pacol is largely explained by cis differences with 27.4% and 22.3% if we are to assess it using BC2 and BC3, respectively. Cis differences between the two genotypes are significantly reduced from BC2 to BC3 due to changes in genomic constitution. Trans, on the other hand, is robust to changes in allelic composition. All these are attributed to the loss of heterozygosity in the BC3 relative to BC2. Further analysis showed that both backcrosses exhibited genome-wide preferential expression of Pacol- over Abuab-specific alleles, despite the wider genetic presence of the latter in the hybrids. The ratio of the two genotype-specific expressed transcripts and the ratio of their corresponding genetic make-up are significantly disproportionate, a phenomenon which we refer here as “genome–transcriptome incongruence”. We also observed preferential expression switching in which several genes prefer Abuab- (or Pacol-) specific allele in the BC2 but switched to Pacol- (or Abuab-) specific allele in the BC3 genome.

The topological index is a numerical quantity based on the characteristics of various invariants or molecular graph. For ease of discussion, these indices are classified according to their logical derivation from topological invariants rather than their temporal development. Degree based topological indices depends upon the degree of vertices. This paper computes degree based topological indices of Bismuth Tri-Iodide chains and sheets with the help of M-polynomial.

For gravitational wave (GW) detected neutron star mergers, one of the leading candidates for electromagnetic (EM) counterparts is the afterglow from an ultra-relativistic jet. Where this afterglow is observed, it will likely be viewed off-axis, such as the afterglow following GW170817/GRB 170817A. The temporal behaviour of an off-axis observed GRB afterglow can be used to reveal the lateral jet structure, and statistical model fits can put constraints on the various model free-parameters. Amongst these parameters is the inclination of the system to the line of sight. Along with the GW detection, the afterglow modelling provides the best constraint on the inclination to the line-of-sight and can improve the estimates of cosmological parameters e.g. the Hubble constant, from GW-EM events. However, modelling of the afterglow depends on the assumed jet structure and, often overlooked, the effects of lateral spreading. Here we show how the inclusion of lateral spreading in the afterglow models can affect the estimated inclination of GW-EM events.

Negative corona discharges occur widely in high voltage transmission lines and charged aircraft, which can cause strong electromagnetic interference. Negative corona discharge is typically performed simultaneously at multiple discharge points. In this study, the current and its EM radiation characteristics of single-needle and multi-needle negative corona discharge in different conditions were tested. The current and electromagnetic radiation characteristics of the two discharge structures were compared. The dipole radiation model was established to analyze the EM radiation characteristics of the negative corona discharge.The results show that, It is only when the voltage reaches a certain threshold that the current and electromagnetic radiation fields of the multi-needle discharge structure will be superimposed and their amplitudes will increase significantly. The frequency of electromagnetic radiation signal does not change with the number of needles, cathode geometry and applied voltage, but only depends on ambient pressure. It provides a basis for detecting corona discharge sources under different conditions.

The World Health Organization recently proposed the Tricycle Protocol for harmonized surveillance of extended-spectrum beta lactamase-producing E. coli (ESBL-Ec) as a proxy for AMR among humans, animals, and the environment. We implemented the Tricycle Protocol with ceftriaxone (CRO) to screen for ESBL-Ec using membrane filtration (TBX-CRO) and Colilert Quanti-Tray (CQT-CRO) workflows in parallel applied to water samples collected from four lakes. ESBL-Ec and E. coli abundance and prevalence, and ESBL-Ec to E. coli ratios were significantly higher in the two highly impacted lakes (receiving sewage treatment plant effluent, open defecation site adjacent to informal settlements) compared to less impacted lakes (wildlife sanctuary, recreational site). The cumulative burden of antibiotic compounds was also higher in the highly impacted lakes. Even in the “pristine” lake in a bird sanctuary, ESBL-Ec and an antibiotic compound were present. Overall, the CQT-CRO format yielded reasonable qualitative (K = 0.603) and quantitative agreement (intra-class correlation coefficient = 0.849) and linearity (r² = 0.785) with the TBX-CRO format adapted from the Tricycle Protocol. However, CQT-CRO doubled the prevalence of ESBL-Ec in settings with decreased E. coli abundance. Consistent with observations for other third-generation cephalosporins, CRO performed poorly for screening the ESBL phenotype. Further, confirmed ESBL-Ec isolates were not associated with an increased number of resistance phenotypes compared with non-ESBL isolates. Instead, the number of resistance phenotypes was associated with the lake from which the sample was collected. In high-burden settings, AMR surveillance efficiency could be increased by directly testing generic E. coli isolates for ESBL phenotype and antibiotic susceptibility. Our experience also suggests that sequencing ESBL-Ec will likely be required to determine epidemiologically appropriate risk mitigation strategies where ESBL-Ec are prevalent. Resource limitations could jeopardize the relevance of the Tricycle Protocol for changing the trajectory of AMR in high-burden low-resource settings globally.

Abstract Octreotide is the first synthetic peptide hormone, consisted of eight amino acids, that mimics the activity of somatostatin, a natural hormone in the body. During the past decades, advanced instrumentation and crystallographic software established X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD) as a valuable tool for extracting structural information of biological macromolecules. The latter was demonstrated by the successful structural determination of octreotide at a remarkably high d-spacing resolution (1.87 Å) (PDB code: 6vc1). This study focuses on the response of octreotide to different humidity levels and temperatures, with a particular focus on the stability of the polycrystalline sample. XRPD measurements were accomplished employing an Anton Paar MHC-trans humidity-temperature chamber installed within a laboratory X’Pert Pro diffractometer (Malvern Panalytical). The chamber is employed to control and maintain precise humidity and temperature levels of samples during XRPD data collection. Pawley analysis of the collected data sets revealed that the octreotide polycrystalline sample is remarkably stable and no structural transitions were observed. The compound retains its orthorhombic symmetry (space group: P212121, a = 18.57744(4) Å, b = 30.17338(6) Å, c = 39.70590(9) Å, d~ 2.35 Å). However, a characteristic structural evolution in terms of lattice parameters and volume of the unit-cell is reported mainly upon controlled relative humidity variation. In addition, an improvement of signal-to-noise ratio in the XRPD data under a cycle of dehydration/rehydration is reported. These results underline the importance of considering the impact of environmental factors, as humidity and temperature, in the context of structure-based drug design, thereby contributing to the development of more effective and stable pharmaceutical products.

The Dph1•Dph2 heterodimer from yeast is a radical SAM (RS) enzyme that generates the 3-amino-3-carboxy-propyl (ACP) precursor for diphthamide, a clinically relevant modification on eukaryotic elongation factor 2 (eEF2). ACP formation requires SAM cleavage and atypical Cys-bound Fe-S clusters in each Dph1 and Dph2 subunit. Intriguingly, the first Cys residue in each motif locates next to another, ill-defined cysteine that we show in-here is conserved across eukaryotes. As judged from structural modeling, the orientation of these tandem cysteine motifs (TCM) suggests a candidate Fe-S cluster ligand role. Hence, we generated by site-directed DPH1 and DPH2 mutagenesis, Dph1•Dph2 variants with cysteines from each TCM replaced individually or in combination by serines. Assays diagnostic for diphthamide formation in vivo reveal that while single substitutions in the TCM of Dph2 cause mild defects, double mutations almost entirely inactivate the RS enzyme. Based on enhanced Dph1 and Dph2 subunit instability in response to cycloheximide chases, the variants with Cys substitutions in their cofactor motifs are particularly prone to protein degradation. In sum, we identify a fourth functionally cooperative Cys residue within the Fe-S motif of Dph2 and show that the Cys-based cofactor binding motifs in Dph1 and Dph2 are critical for the structural integrity of the dimeric RS enzyme in vivo.

Bamboo is considered a sustainable construction material due to its ability to grow quickly and its mechanical properties that are comparable to timber. Contributing to the current effort to establish the structural bamboo standards in the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP), this study establishes the characteristic compressive strength of four bamboo species: Bambusa vulgaris (36 samples), Dendrocalamus asper (36 samples), Bambusa blumeana (94 samples), and Guadua angustifolia Kunth (30 samples). The samples were subjected to compressive loading following ISO 22157-1 (2017). The characteristic compressive strength values obtained, according to ISO 12122-1 (2014), were 40.35 MPa for B. vulgaris, 40.21 MPa for D. asper, 46.63 MPa for B. blumeana, and 36.99 MPa for G. angustifolia Kunth. Simple linear analysis, One-way ANOVA, and Welch’s t-Test were used to analyze the correlation models and establish a comparative analysis of the effect of nodes, and geometric and physical properties on the compressive strength of bamboos. Comparing the characteristic compressive strength obtained from this study to the strength of unseasoned structural timber of Philippine woods, all bamboo species showed higher strength values, and thus have great potential as an alternative construction material to timber.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that poses a significant threat to individuals with chronic respiratory ailments, such as cystic fibrosis (CF). The pathogen is highly prevalent in CF individuals and is responsible for chronic infection, resulting in severe tissue damage and poor patient outcome. However, early detection and immediate treatment are critical to prevent bacterial persistence and establishment of chronic infection. Presently, antibiotics including aminoglycosides, beta-lactams, polymyxins, and fluoroquinolones along with anti-inflammatory medications are being used to treat P. aeruginosa infections in CF patients. However, prolonged antibiotic administration has led to the emergence of widespread multidrug resistance in P. aeruginosa (CF isolates), contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and failure of antimicrobial therapies. Thus, exploring viable alternatives such as antivirulence therapeutics can be vital towards managing pseudomonal infections in CF patients and mitigating the risk of AMR. In this direction, antivirulence strategies achieving targeted inhibition of bacterial virulence pathways/factors, including quorum sensing, efflux pumps, lectins, and iron chelators, have been widely explored against CF isolates of P. aeruginosa. Simultaneously, there have been discussions about the sufficiency of in vitro findings and their successful translation in pulmonary infection models (in vivo) for the clinical implementation of antivirulence therapies hence, this review article presents a bird’s eye view on the pulmonary infections involving P. aeruginosa in CF patients by laying emphasis on factors contributing to bacterial colonization, persistence, and disease progression along with the current line of therapeutics against P. aeruginosa in CF while underscoring the limitation of antimicrobial approaches. We further collate scientific literature and comprehensively discuss the various antivirulence strategies that have been successfully tested against P. aeruginosa isolates from CF patients. This could pave the way towards a paradigm shift towards clinical therapy of pseudomonal infections in CF and can potentially override conventional antimicrobial treatments.

The infections caused by various bacterial pathogens both in clinical and community settings represent a significant threat to public healthcare worldwide. The growing resistance to antimicrobial drugs acquired by bacterial species causing healthcare-associated infections has already become a life-threatening danger noticed by the World Health Organization. Several groups or lineages of bacterial isolates usually called ‘the clones of high risk’ often drive the spread of resistance within particular species. Thus, it is vitally important to reveal and track the spread of such clones and the mechanisms by which they acquire antibiotic resistance and enhance their survival skills. Currently, the analysis of whole genome sequences for bacterial isolates of interest is increasingly used for these purposes, including epidemiological surveillance and developing of spread prevention measures. However, the availability and uniformity of the data derived from the genomic sequences often represents a bottleneck for such investigations. In this dataset, we present the results of a comprehensive genomic epidemiology analysis of 17,546 genomes of a dangerous bacterial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii. Important typing information including multilocus sequence typing (MLST)-based sequence types (STs), intrinsic blaOXA-51-like gene variants, capsular (KL) and oligosaccharide (OCL) types, CRISPR-Cas systems, and cgMLST profiles are presented, as well as the assignment of particular isolates to nine known international clones of high risk. The presence of antimicrobial resistance genes within the genomes is also reported. These data will be useful for researchers in the field of A. baumannii genomic epidemiology, resistance analysis and prevention measure development.

The current study characterizes the transient M/M/1 queue manifold info-geometrically, through devising Fisher Information matrix(FIM) and its inverse(IFIM). Additionally, the impact of stability on the existence of IFIM and explore the geodesic equations of motion has been revealed. More potentially, the paper discusses some info-geometric applications to Machine Learning are highlighted. Closing remarks with some challenging open problems combined with the next phase of research are given.

When it is in the template RNA, the naturally occurring m¹A epitranscriptomic RNA modification was recently reported to be able to stop the RNA polymerization reaction catalyzed by the RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) of SARS-CoV-2. In this report, we report that m¹A via its triphosphate form (m¹ATP) can be incorporated into RNA by the same RdRp. These two findings point a new direction for antiviral drug development based on m¹A for combatting COVID-19. More broadly, it is possible that the large pool of epigenetic RNA as well as DNA modifications could serve as a treasury for drug discovery aimed at combating various infectious and other diseases.

ABSTRACT: Objectives: Oncostatin M (OSM), a member of the interleukin (IL)-6 family of cytokines, is known to elicit pathogenic effects involving disruption of the epithelial barrier function as a part of immunological response networks. It is not yet known how these integrated cytokine signals influence inflammation and other physiological processes in the pathology of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). We investigated the expression and distribution of OSM and OSM receptor (OSMR) in sinonasal specimens of CRS patients, and we compared the results with a panel of inflammatory cytokine levels and clinical features. Materials and Methods: We classified CRS patients as eosinophilic (ECRS, n=36) or non-eosinophilic (non-ECRS, n=35) based on the Japanese Epidemiological Survey of Refractory Eosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis (JESREC) phenotypic criteria, and we compared their cases with those of 68 non-CRS subjects. We also examined stimulatory effects of OSM on the expression levels of cytokine receptors by using the human bronchial epithelium cell line BEAS-2B. Results: An RT-PCR showed that the OSM mRNA levels were significantly increased in the ethmoid sinus mucosa of the CRS patients. The OSM mRNA levels were positively correlated with those of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-13, and OSMR-β. In BEAS-2B cells, OSM treatment induced significant increases in the OSMR-β, IL-1R1, and IL-13Ra mRNA levels. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that OSM is involved in the pathogenesis of CRS in both type 1 and type 2 inflammation, suggesting the OSM signaling pathway as a potential therapeutic target for modulating epithelial stromal interactions.

This research paper is about to obtain new soliton solutions to the M-fractional (1+1)-dimensional nonlinear Westervelt model by utilizing $\exp_a$ function and modified simplest equation techniques. The gained solutions involving dark, bright, periodic, dark-bright and other solitons. These results have many applications in wave propagation of sound waves, high amplitude in medical imaging and therapy. Achieved results are verified by Mathematica tool and the effect of M-fractional derivative on the solutions is explained through 2-Dimensional, 3-Dimensional and contour plots. At the end, these techniques are simple, fruitful and effective to deal with nonlinear FPDEs.

In this paper, chaos sequence is used to replace the traditional Spread Spectrum sequence. From the perspective of the communication partner, a new method of generating the initial value of chaotic sequence is proposed, which is more suitable for the multi-base Spread Spectrum System and easy to extract. In order to further improve the error performance of the system and ensure the integrity of the system, an improved suboptimal soft information extraction method based on log-likelihood ratio (LLR) is proposed in the channel coding module, which can further improve the error performance of the system. On this basis, we choose the synchronization mode of multiple transmission of one reference signal to solve the problem that chaotic sequence is difficult to obtain synchronization because of its aperiodic characteristics. Finally, the system is simulated in the channel with low SNR. The simulation results show that chaotic sequence as Spread Spectrum code can make the signal transmit accurately in the worse channel environment. The performance gain of applying soft information decoding decision in the M-ary Spread Spectrum System with chaotic sequence as Spread Spectrum code can reach 5.2dB compared with the traditional Direct Spread Spectrum System.

Abstract: Due to their rapid evolution and their impact on health care, be-ta-lactamases, protein degrading beta-lactam antibiotics, are used as generic model of protein evolution. Therefore, we investigated the mutation effects in two distant beta-lactamases TEM-1 and CTX-M-15. Interestingly we found a site with a complex pattern of genetic interactions. Mutation G251W in TEM-1 is in-activating the protein’s function just as the reciprocal mutation W251G in CTXM-15. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that mutation G has been entrenched in TEM-1 background: while rarely observed throughout the phylogeny it is es-sential in TEM-1. Using a rescue experiment in TEM-1 G251W mutant, we could identify sites that alleviates the deviation from G to W. While few of these muta-tions could potentially involve local interactions, most of them were found on distant residues in the 3D structure. Many well-known mutations having an impact on protein stability, such as M182T, were recovered. Our results there-fore suggest that entrenchment of an amino acid may rely on diffuse interactions among multiple sites with a major impact on protein stability.

In the paper we consider conformal mappings of Riemannian spaces onto Ricci-2-symmetric Riemannian spaces and geodesic mappings of spaces with affine connections onto Ricci-2-symmetric spaces. The main equations for the mappings are obtained as a closed system of differential equations of Cauchy-type in covariant derivatives. We have found the number of essential parameters which the solution of the system depends on. Similar approach was applied for the case of conformal mappings of Riemannian spaces onto Ricci-m-symmetric Riemannian spaces and geodesic mappings of spaces with affine connections onto Ricci-m-symmetric spaces.

This paper compares the finite sample performance of three non-parametric threshold estimators via Monte Carlo method. Our results show that the finite sample performance of the three estimators is not robust to the relative position of the threshold level along the distribution of threshold variable, especially when a structural change occurs at the tail part of the distribution.

In South Western Indian ocean (IO), Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL) are a main public health issue. In livestock, ESBL burden was unknown. The aim of this study was estimating the prevalence of ESBL on commercial farms in Reunion, Mayotte and Madagascar and genes involved. Secondly, risk factors of ESBL occurrence in broiler, beef cattle and pig farms were explored. In 2016-2017, commercial farms were sampled using boot swabs and samples stored at 4°C before microbiological analysis for phenotypical ESBL and gene characterization. A semi-directive questionnaire was performed. Prevalences observed in all production types and territories were elevated, except for beef cattle in Reunion which differed significantly. The most common ESBL gene was the CTX-M-1 subtype. Generalized linear models explaining ESBL occurrence varied between livestock production sectors and allowed identifying main protective (e.g., water quality control and detergent use for cleaning) and risk factors (e.g., recent antibiotic use, other farmers visiting the exploitation, pet presence). This study is the first to explore tools for antibiotic resistance management in IO farms. It provides interesting hypothesis to explore about antibiotic use in IO and ESBL transmission between pig, beef cattle and humans in Madagascar.

Although cicadas have traditionally been considered pests of little or no importance, since the beginning of this century, an increase in damages is being recorded in olive groves of southern Spain. According to our hypothesis, the new agricultural practices would be behind it. During 2024, Intensive sampling has been carried out in organic grove, with herbaceus cover (VC2), and a second one with mixed vegetation cover (VC1, in which the crushed remains of the annual pruning are added). In both ecological groves, inventories of the vegetation have been carried out, as well as intensive sampling in the olive canopy, with the densities of oviposition injuries being recorded and compared with respect to conventional management (CONV). The objectives of this study: (1) to quantify the density of oviposition lesions under these three different farming systems; (2) to determine priority areas for cicadas oviposition within trees; (3) to develop a sampling method to assess damage over large areas. The results show significant increases in density of injuries in organic groves, with maximum values recorded in the olive grove with mixed cover. Oviposition injuries show an altitudinal gradient distribution, with maximum values in the lower zone. The factors involved are discussed.

The synthesis of enantiomeric forms of D-amino acids can be achieved by a two-step "hydantoinase process" based on the sequential catalysis of substrates by specific enzymes, D-carbamoylase and D-hydantoinase. In addition to our previously studied D-hydantoinase, we describe here the structural features of D-carbamoylase from Pseudomonas, the encoded gene of which was chemically synthesized and cloned into Escherichia coli. A significant fraction of the overexpressed recombinant protein forms insoluble inclusion bodies, which are partially converted to a soluble state upon treatment with N-lauroylsarcosine or upon incubation of the cells at low temperatures. Analysis of the substrate specificity of the purified His-tag protein showed that D-carbamoylase exhibits the highest activity toward N-carbamoyl-D-alanine and N-carbamoyl-D-tryptophan. Molecular docking analysis revealed the location of the substrate binding site in the three-dimensional structure of D-carbamoylase. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that the binding pocket of the enzyme in complex with N-carbamoyl-D-tryptophan is stabilized within 100 ns. The free energy of binding indicated a possible role of residues Arg176 and Asn173 in the formation of hydrogen bonds between the enzyme and N-carbamoyl-D-tryptophan. The properties of the studied D-carbamoylase and D-hydantoinase support further development of a combined biotechnological process for the production of new drugs and peptide hormones.

The present study examined metabolites in Northern wild rice (WLD), the impact of WLD supplemented high fat (HF) diet on gut microbiota, short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and correlation with metabolism or inflammation versus HF+white rice (WHR) in mice. C57BL/6J mice received HF diet supplemented with 26g% WHR, 26g% WLD, or 13g% WHR+13g% WLD (WTWD) for 12 weeks. The levels of fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin resistance, inflammatory cytokines and monocyte adhesion were lower, and the abundances of fecal Lactobacillus gasseri species bacteria and propionic acid were higher in HF+WLD diet-fed mice compared to HF+WHR diet-fed mice (p<0.05). The anti-inflammatory effects of HF+WTWD diet were weaker than that in HF+WLD diet, but were greater than that in HF+WHR diet-fed mice (p<0.05). Relative abundances of fecal Lactobacillus gasseri and propionic acid in HF+WLD fed-mice were higher than that in HF+WHR fed mice. The abundance of fecal L. gasseri and propionic acid negatively correlated with metabolic and inflammatory markers (p<0.05). The findings suggest that WLD dose-dependently attenuated metabolic and inflammatory disorders in HF diet-fed mice. Interactions between WLD components and gut microbiota may upregulate fecal propionic acid and contribute to metabolic and anti-inflammatory benefits of WLD diet-induced insulin resistant mice.

The evidential value of an mtDNA match between biological remains and its potential donor is determined by the random match probability of the haplotype. This probability is based on the haplotype’s population frequency estimate. Consequently, implementing a population study representative of the population relevant to the forensic case is vital to correctly evaluating the evidence. The emerging number of poaching cases and the limited availability of such data emphasizes the need for improved fallow deer mtDNA population databank for forensic purposes, including targeting the entire mitochondrial control region. By sequencing the whole mitochondrial control region in 138 animals from five populations in Hungary we found four different haplotypes, including one which has not yet been described. Our results, supplemented with data already available from previous research do not support the possibility of determining the population of origin, although some patterns of geographical separation can be distinguished. Estimates of molecular diversity indicate approximately similarly low mtDNA diversity (Hd=0.565 and π = 0.002), compared with data from other countries. The calculated random match probability of 0.547 shows a high probability of coincidence and, therefore, a limited capacity for exclusion. Consequently, it may be necessary to search for polymorphic sites on other mitochondrial gene sections or to sequence the entire mitogenome of fallow deer.

Plant hormones regulate the adaptive responses to various biotic and abiotic stress factors. Applied exogenously they trigger the natural plant defense mechanisms, a feature that could be implemented in strategies for supporting crop resilience. The potential of exogenous cytokinin-like acting compound (kinetin), the auxin analogue 1-naphtyl acetic acid (NAA), abscisic acid (ABA) and the ethylene-precursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) to mitigate dehydration was tested on Lactuca sativa (lettuce) grown on 12% polyethylene glycol (PEG). Priming with different blends containing these plant growth regulators applied in bioequivalent concentrations was evaluated through biometric measurements and biochemical analyses. The combined treatment with the four plant hormones exhibited the best dehydration protective effect. The antioxidative enzyme profiling of the PGR-primed individuals revealed increased SOD, catalase and peroxidase activity in the leaves. Immunodetection of higher levels of the rate-limiting enzyme for proline biosynthesis (delta-pyroline-5-carboxylate synthase) in the primed plants coincided with a significantly higher content of the amino acid measured in the leaves. These plants also accumulated particular dehydrin types, which may have contributed to the observed stress-relieving effect. The four-component hormonal mix applied by spraying or through the roots exerted similar stress-mitigating properties on soil-grown lettuce subjected to moderate drought.

Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common monogenic cause of inherited intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder, is caused by a full mutation (&gt;200 CGG repeats) in the Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) gene. Individuals with FXS experience a wide range of challenges related to social interaction (SI). Animal models, such as Drosophila melanogaster model for FXS where the only ortholog of human FMR1 (dFMR1) is mutated, have played a crucial role in understanding of FXS. The aim of this study was to investigate SI in the dFMR1B55 mutants using the novel Drosophila Shallow Chamber and a Python data processing pipeline based on social network analysis (SNA). In comparison with wild-type flies (w1118), SNA analysis in dFMR1B55 mutants revealed hypoactivity, fewer connections in their networks, a lower ability to efficiently transmit information, fewer alternative pathways for information transmission, a higher variability in the number of interactions they achieved, and tended to stay near the boundaries of the testing chamber. These observed alterations indicate the presence of characteristic strain-dependent social networks in dFMR1B55 flies, commonly referred to as the group phenotype. Finally, a combination of novel research tools is a valuable method for SI research in fruit flies.

Utilizing bioinformatics tools, this study expands our understanding of secondary metabolism in Botrytis cinerea, identifying novel genes within polyketide synthase (PKS), non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS), sesquiterpene cyclase (STC), diterpene cyclase (DTC), and dimethylal-lyltryptophan synthase (DMATS) families. These findings enrich the genetic framework associ-ated with B. cinerea's pathogenicity and ecological adaptation, offering insights into uncharted metabolic pathways. Significantly, the discovery of previously unannotated genes provides new molecular targets for developing targeted antifungal strategies, promising to enhance crop pro-tection and advance our understanding of fungal biochemistry. This research not only broadens the scope of known secondary metabolites but also opens avenues for future exploration into B. cinerea's biosynthetic capabilities, potentially leading to novel antifungal compounds. Our work underscores the importance of integrating bioinformatics and genomics for fungal research, paving the way for sustainable agricultural practices by pinpointing precise molecular interven-tions against B. cinerea. This study sets a foundation for further investigations into the fungus's secondary metabolism, with implications for biotechnology and crop disease management.

The continuous flowing spacetime forms a spacetime group G, one of its fundamental groups is the Poincare group PO(1,3), and the matter and interaction fields are representations of its intrinsic spacetime group. As a kind of quantized space-time unit, space-time group elements generate both space-time manifolds and matter. Matter and fields are aggregates of the quantum space-time within them and determine their type: the Lorentz group SO(1,3) represents a rotating spacetime corresponding to visible matter and the translation group P^1,3 represents a translational spacetime corresponding to dark matter and dark energy. The aggregation mode of space-time degrees of freedom in matter reveals that charge conjugation symmetry is the inverse symmetry of internal time of charged particles, and the external parity breaking of neutrinos is also due to their internal spatial aggregation mode.

BACKGROUND: Is pharmacovigilance at a moment of prominence for science and in relation to government responsibilities towards their nations, as the new coronavirus pandemic has surprised everyone in a negative and lethal way. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate pharmacovigilance as a resource for controlling and understanding the adverse effects caused by vaccines in use. DESIGN AND SETTING: Narrative review developed by a research group at Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto. METHODS: This is a narrative review of the literature available in electronic media, government bulletins and similar bodies. The search was carried out using the descriptors: "Pharmacovigilance AND COVID-19 in Brazil", "Vaccine Development AND COVID-19 in Brazil", "Vaccination Hesitancy AND COVID-19 in Brazil", "Pharmacovigilance AND COVID-19", "Vaccine Development AND COVID-19", "Vaccination Hesitancy AND COVID-19", Pharmacovigilance AND COVID-19, Vaccine Development AND COVID-19, Vaccination Hesitancy AND COVID-19, "Public Health Surveillance AND COVID-19". In the period from May 2021 to June 2022. RESULTS: From the database search, 3 journal articles, 4 government bulletins and 535 scientific articles were identified. Of the total of 542 bibliographic materials, 36 were selected according to the selection criteria and objectives of the study. CONCLUSIONS: The vaccines in use have proven efficacy, despite adverse reactions that cannot be attributed solely and exclusively to their use, since the medical history of each patient should be considered in the investigation of each case, especially when there is death. The Brazilian data for adverse events, although the country is continental in its size, are acceptable given the number of deaths recorded.

The inherited ‘EIA’ process at Brexit is based on a ‘Project’ period from Inception tothe start of construction works. The ‘Incompleteness’ of the process covers andidentifies stages that will impact on the environmental cycle: construction period,operational life, de-commissioning and a return to acceptable environmental footprint.A master environment structure-plan framework is required to commence with theupgrading of the complete ‘EIA’ process, embracing separate limbs for the UK’spriority environmental targets for climate change, and other major adverse effectswhich result in serious ‘harm’ to the UK environment. The identification of the processfor ‘incompleteness’ requires effective sustainability, and inclusion of effectivemanagement tools, for the essential ‘monitoring/control/recording’ proceduresthroughout the project life and the natural environmental cycle. This will allow theopportunity for a new approach to a structured ‘Suite of EIAR Directives’, to enable a‘EIAR’ regime that ‘will remain fit and proper for UK purpose’.

In recent decades, there have been numerous endeavors to develop a novel category of survival distributions possessing enhanced flexibility through the extension of existing distributions. This article constructs and validates the statistical properties of a novel survival distribution in order to obtain an alternative distribution that is suitable for analyzing survival data by presenting the novel mixture of the Fréchet distribution along with statistical properties such as the probability density function (PDF), cumulative distribution function (CDF), rth ordinary moment, skewness, kurtosis, moment-generating function, mean, variance, mode, survival function, hazard function, and asymptotic behavior, as well as constructing the estimators of the unknown parameter by employing the expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm, and simulated annealing. Additionally, the performance of the proposed estimators was compared with bias, mean squared errors (MSE), and simulated variances, and given an illustrative example of the proposed distribution to the survival data set in order to show that the proposed distribution is appropriate for the right-skewed data. This will be extremely advantageous in survival analysis.

In the era of big data with increasingly complex data structures and ever-larger data scales, matrix-type data are becoming highly valued and their applications in the fields of medicine, industry, education, geography, and astronomy are growing in extent. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the practical use of matrix variable t-distribution finite mixture models for handling data in order to address the issues of multi-subgroup structures and long data tails. In this paper, the expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm with penalized maximum likelihood is proposed to resolve the problem of the unbounded nature of the likelihood function applied to the model by considering the degeneracy of the variance-covariance matrix of this model. Our data were analyzed through simulations and real data, and the results demonstrate that our model is effective in both preventing the likelihood function from being unbounded and in ensuring the accuracy of the estimated parameters of the EM algorithm.

It is generally assumed that spirochetemia does not take place at the early localized stage of Lyme disease. This misassumption is due to the lack of sensitive and specific methods for detection. This paper reports that separation of the platelet-rich plasma immediately after venous blood collection to prevent the spirochetes from invading the lymphocytes in the test tube is crucial in molecular detection of a single Borrelia burgdorferi cell spun down in platelet pellets. In 2023, we tested the venous blood specimens of 145 people residing in Lyme disease-endemic areas in the United States. In 98 of them, who were suspected of having early localized Lyme disease irrespective of the absence or presence of a skin lesion, we found 33 specimens (33.7%) positive for B. burgdorferi, including 17 positive for FlaB gene only, 15 positive for both FlaB gene and 16S rRNA gene, and 1 positive for 16S rRNA gene only. Eight (17.0%) of the 47 asymptomatic resident controls were positive for FlaB PCR only. FlaB is a more sensitive chromosomal target than the 16S rRNA gene for the detection of 1-3 B. burgdorferi cells in 1 mL of platelet-rich plasma due to spirochetes gaining or retaining FlaB paralogs at the early localized stage of Lyme disease.

German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) is an essential oil-content medicinal plant widely used worldwidely. The aim of this study was (1) to gain knowledge of the phytochemical composition and the analgesic and soporific activity of M. chamomilla flowers extract and its amino acid preparations, (2) to predict the mechanisms of their effects by molecular docking, and (3) to develop aqueous printing gels and novel 3D-printed oral dosage forms for M. chamomilla flowers extracts. In total 22 phenolics and 14 amino acids were identified and quantified in the M. chamomilla extracts. The in-vivo animal studies with rodents showed that the oral administration of such extracts revealed the potential for treating of sleep disorders and diseases accompanied by pain. Amino acids were found to potentiate these effects. Glycine enhanced the analgesic activity the most, while lysine and β-alanine improved the soporific activity. The molecular docking analysis revealed a high probability of GABAA and NMDA receptor antagonism and COX-1,2 inhibition by the extracts. A polyethylene oxide (PEO) based gel composition with the M. chamomilla extracts were proposed for preparing a novel 3D-printed dosage form for the oral administration. These 3D-printed extract preparations can be used for example in dietary supplement applications.

Recently Candida auris has emerged as a multi-resistant fungal pathogen, with a significant clinical impact, and has become a critical issue in WHO fungal priority list, due to its unique ability to persist for long time on human skin and hospital environments. It is therefore fundamental to reinforce hospital surveillance protocols to limit nosocomial outbreaks. The study purpose was the Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) application to investigate the phylogenetic relationships between isolated strains within the C. auris outbreak at the university Intensive Care Unit of a Tertiary University hospital in Turin (Italy). In order to calculate a clustering cut-off, intra- and inter-isolates distance values were analysed. Data showed the presence of a major cluster Alfa and a minor cluster Beta with a defined C. auris clustering cut-off. The results were validated by an external C. auris strain and Principal Component and Linear Discriminant Analysis. The application of FT-IR technology had allowed to obtain important information about the phylogenetic relationships between the analysed strains, defining for the first time a “not WGS-based” clustering cut-off with a statistical-mathematical approach. FT-IR could represent a valid alternative to molecular methods for rapid and cost saving typing of C. auris strains with important clinical implications.

The AREB/ABF (ABA response element binding) proteins in plants are vital for plant stress responses, but the understanding of AREB/ABFs in orchid species, an important traditional medicinal and ornamental plants, is limited. Here, twelve AREB/ABF genes were identified within three orchids’ complete genome and classified into three groups (groups I, II, and III) via a phylogenetic analysis, which was further supported by the analysis of their conserved motifs and gene structures. The cis-elements analysis showed that hormone response elements followed by light and stress responses were widely rich in AREB/ABFs. A prediction analysis of orchid ABRE/ABF-mediated regulatory network was further constructed through cis-regulatory elements (CREs) analysis of their promoter regions and revealed that several transcriptional factor (TF) gene family were abundant as the potential regulators for orchid AREB/ABFs. Expression profile analysis based on public transcriptomic data showed that most AREB/ABF genes have distinct tissue-specific expression patterns in orchid plants. Additionally, DcaABI5 as the homolog of ABA INSENSITIVE 5 (ABI5) from Arabidopsis was selected for further analysis. The results showed that Arabidopsis transgenic overexpressing DcaABI5 could rescue the ABA insensitive phenotype in the mutant abi5. Collectively, these findings will provide valuable information on AREB/ABF genes in orchids.

The global burden of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and severe associated disease is prodigious. RSV specific vaccines have been launched recently but there is no antiviral medicine commercially available. RSV polymerase (L) protein is one of the promising antiviral targets along with fusion and nucleocapsid proteins. During medicinal chemis-try campaign, two potent L-protein inhibitors (PC786 and PC751) were identified. Both compounds inhibited RSV A/B-induced cytopathic effect in HEp-2 cells equally, but PC786 was more potent than PC751 in bronchial epithelial cells. Repeated treatment with escalating concentrations on RSV A2 infected HEp-2 cells revealed both inhibitors led to a Y1631H mutation in the L protein, but only PC786 induced a mutation in the M protein (V153A). By L-protein fragment and M protein binding analysis, we showed that the M protein interacts with the 1392-1735 amino acid region of the L protein, where potentially PC786 binds. In addition, PC786 treatment or PC786 induced mutant RSV was found to increase M protein nuclear localisation later in infection concomitant with delayed fusion protein localisation at the budding viral filaments. As M protein is known to play a key role in virus assembly and budding late in infection, our data suggests that disrupting the interaction between M and L could provide a novel target for antiviral development.

This study investigates the potential benefits of integrating coarser particle size distributions (PSDs) of 45-106 µm into laser-based powder bed fusion of metals (PBF-LB/M), aiming to reduce costs while maintaining quality standards. Despite the considerable advantages of PBF-LB/M in producing intricate geometries with high precision, the high cost of metal powders remains a barrier to widespread adoption. By exploring the use of coarser PSDs, particularly from electron beam-based powder bed fusion of metals (PBF-EB/M), significant cost-saving opportunities are identified. Through comprehensive powder characterization, process analysis, and mechanical property evaluation, this study demonstrates that PBF-LB/M can effectively utilize coarser powders while achieving comparable mechanical properties to those produced with 20-53 µm PSD. Adaptations in process parameters enable the successful processing of coarser powders, maintaining high-relative density components with minimal porosity. Additionally, market surveys reveal substantial cost differentials between PBF-LB/M and PBF-EB/M powders, indicating 40 % cost reduction potential by integrating coarser PSDs into PBF-LB/M. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the economic and technical feasibility of printing with coarser powders in PBF-LB/M, offering promising avenues for cost reduction without compromising quality, thus enhancing competitiveness and adoption of the technology in manufacturing applications.

Exploring therapeutic options is crucial in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2. Nirmatrelvir, a potent inhibitor targeting the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, shows promise as an antiviral treatment. Additionally, Ivermectin, a broad-spectrum antiparasitic drug, has demonstrated effectiveness against the virus in laboratory settings. However, its clinical implications are still debated. Using computational methods such as molecular docking and 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations, we investigated how Nirmatrelvir and Ivermectin interact with SARS-CoV-2 Mpro(A). Calculations using density functional theory have been instrumental in elucidating the behavior of isolated molecules, primarily by analyzing the frontier molecular orbitals. Our analysis revealed distinct binding patterns: Nirmatrelvir formed strong interactions with amino acids like MET49, MET165, HIS41, HIS163, HIS164, PHE140, CYS145, GLU166, and ASN142, showing stable binding with a root mean square deviation (RMSD) of around 2.0 Å. On the other hand, Ivermectin interacted with THR237, THR239, LEU271, LEU272, and LEU287, displaying an RMSD of 1.87 Å, indicating enduring interactions. Both ligands stabilized Mpro(A), with Ivermectin showing stability and persistent interactions despite forming fewer hydrogen bonds. These findings offer detailed insights into how Nirmatrelvir and Ivermectin bind to the SARS-CoV-2 main protease, providing valuable information for potential therapeutic strategies against COVID-19.

Ptolemy’s Theorem in Euclidean geometry, named after the Greek astronomer and mathematician Claudius Ptolemy, is well known. We translate Ptolemy’s Theorem from analytic Euclidean geometry into the Poincar´e ball model of analytic hyperbolic geometry, which is based on M¨obius addition. The translation of Ptolemy’s Theorem from Euclidean geometry into hyperbolic geometry is achieved by means of the hyperbolic trigonometry, called gyrotrigonometry, to which the Poincar´e ball model gives rise, and by means of the duality of trigonometry and gyrotrigonometry.

This article introduces ten similarity measures that utilize cosine and cotangent functions to compare (m,n)-rung orthopair fuzzy sets, this a super class of q-rung orthopair fuzzy sets. Further, we applied our established weighted similarity measures to medical diagnosis, pattern recognition,and building material problems and also presented the comparison between established measures with the existing cosine and cotangent measures of q-rung orthopair, pythagorean and intuitionistic fuzzy sets. Lastly, we considered a numerical example that demonstrates the effective and scientific application of these similarity measures in plant leaf disease classification. Furthermore, we present graphical interpretations to demonstrate the effectiveness of our established measures.

This article is an effort to scrutinize the role of Information Technology development in the chronological transformation of Urban Planning domain using the exploratory research approach. In this research, it is argued that the theoretical and practical understanding of Urban Planning should absorb and integrate the bright outcome of the rise of Information and Technology to foster congruent future urban development. The article addresses the trends of transformation in the urban planning domain through the myopic lens of the expansion of information and communications technology era followed by investigating the key drivers shaping the interaction between modern-day urban planning and information technology considering both the dark and bright sides into account.

Background: Existing human cell immortalization methods made the cells obtain oncogenesis phenotype and/or caused the cells gain and/or lose chromosomes. Immortalized normal human T cells lines provide critical in vitro models for basic research and therapeutic products development.Methods: We utilized a CRISPR/Cas9 system to replace a single copy of the exon 2 of the cell cycle inhibitor gene CDKN2A (encoding p16 and p14 proteins) with a single copy of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) to immortalize human primary CD8⁺ T cells (hCD8⁺T-TERT). By using Cas9 protein and low donor DNA copies/cell, we successfully immortalized hCD8⁺T cells with a single copy of hTERT transgene, which also avoided uncontrolled insertion of Cas9 gene and guide RNA vector.Results: Human primary CD8+ cells were immortalized and expanded more than 2.6 × 10⁷ times. Characterization of the cells revealed that the immortalized CD8⁺ T-TERT cells retained most of the cell surface markers and normal karyotype. The CD8⁺ T-TERT cells also retained the dependence of IL-2 and CD3/CD28 activator for survival and expansion.Conclusion: we established a stable immortalized CD8⁺ T cell line that had a phenotype consistent with T cells and will be a useful research model.

My innovative entropy measure, Ismail entropy, namely, (IE) is an ultimate generalization to numerous generalized entropies within the literature. The fractal dimension of IE is identified in this paper. On another applicative note, this paper offers some potential applications of fractal dimension to smart cities. The paper ends with closing remarks combined with some challenging open problems and the next phase of research.

Xyleborus beetles, a diverse group of ambrosia beetles, present significant challenges to forestry and agriculture due to their damaging burrowing behavior and symbiotic relationships with fungi. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the biology, ecology, and management of Xyleborus. We explore the beetles' life cycle, reproductive strategies, habitat preferences, and feeding habits, emphasizing their ecological and economic impacts. Control and management strategies, including preventive measures, chemical and biological control, and integrated pest management (IPM), are critically evaluated. Recent advances in molecular genetics and behavioral studies offer insights into genetic diversity, population structure, and host selection mechanisms. Despite progress, managing Xyleborus effectively remains challenging. This review identifies future research needs and highlights innovative control methods, such as biopesticides and pheromone-based trapping systems.

Background. Azithromycin (AZM) is widely used in cystic fibrosis (CF) treatment following clinical trials demonstrating improved lung function and fewer pulmonary exacerbations. While the precise mechanisms remain elusive, immunomodulatory actions are thought to be involved. We previously reported impaired phagocytosis and defective anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage polarization in CF macrophages. This study systematically analyzed the effect of AZM on the functions of unpolarized and M1/M2 polarized macrophages in CF. Methods: Monocytes, isolated from the venous blood of patients with CF (pwCF) and healthy controls (HCs) were differentiated into monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) and infected with P. aeruginosa. P. aeruginosa uptake and killing by MDMs in the presence or absence of AZM was studied. M1 and M2 macrophage polarizations were induced and their functions and cytokine release were analyzed. Results: Following AZM treatment, both HC and CF MDMs exhibited a significant increase in P. aeruginosa uptake and killing, however, lysosomal acidification remained unchanged. AZM treatment led to higher activation of ERK1/2 in both HC and CF MDMs. Pharmacological inhibition of ERK1/2 using U0126 significantly reduced P. aeruginosa uptake in HC MDMs. M1 macrophage polarization remained unaffected, however, AZM treatment led to increased IL-6 and IL-10 release in both HC and CF M1 macrophages. AZM also significantly increased the phagocytic index for both pHrodo E. coli and S. aureus in CF M1 macrophages. In CF, AZM treatment promoted anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage polarization, with an increased percentage of CD209+ M2 macrophages, induction of the M2 gene CCL18, along with its secretion in the culture supernatant. However, AZM did not restore endocytosis in CF, another essential feature of M2 macrophages. Conclusions: This study highlights the cellular functions and molecular targets of AZM which may involve improved uptake of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, restored anti-inflammatory macrophage polarization in CF. This may in turn shape the reduced lung inflammation observed in clinical trials. In addition, we confirmed the role of ERK1/2 activation for bacterial uptake.

Indigenous Peoples in Canada are disproportionately affected by chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. HCV prevalence in Indigenous Peoples is estimated at approximately five to 10-fold higher than it is in non-Indigenous persons, while the reported rate of newly diagnosed HCV cases in First Nations communities was six times the respective rate in the general Canadian population in 2022. This review explores the reasons underlying the disproportionate burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in Indigenous Peoples, including significant over-representation of Indigenous Peoples in the major risk categories for HCV acquisition, such as substance abuse, incarceration, homelessness or inadequate shelter, and disruption of family/social supports. The impact of these risk factors is aggravated by many access barriers to healthcare services despite the availability of universal healthcare system and free curative antiviral therapies. These stem from the legacy of colonialism, discrimination and disenfranchisement, and are exacerbated by racism in the justice and healthcare systems, stigmatization and victimization. Recent recognition of historical harms and early steps towards nation-to-nation reconciliation along with support for culturally safe, wholistic and Indigenous People-led wellness programs instill hope that elimination strategies to eradicate HCV infection in Indigenous populations will be successful in Canada.

This paper presents a design and performance analysis of a 10-element 5G massive MIMO antenna array for sub-6GHz mobile handsets, specifically for LTE bands 42 (3400-3600 MHz), 43 (3600-3800 MHz), 48/49 (3550-3700 MHz) applications. The proposed antenna array consists of 10 closely spaced linearly polarized inverted-F antennas with a compact size of 20 × 9 mm2 of a single element. The proposed antenna array provides high gain, high efficiency, and low correlation between the antenna elements, which results in improved channel capacity, increased data rate, and enhanced signal quality. The performance of the antenna array is evaluated in terms of the radiation pattern, gain, efficiency, and correlation coefficient. The simulation and measured results show that the proposed antenna array achieves an approximate peak gain of 3.1 dBi at the resonance frequency, a total efficiency of 65 %, and a low correlation coefficient of 0.06 between the antenna elements. Therefore, the proposed 5G massive MIMO antenna array is a promising candidate for sub-6 GHz mobile handsets, particularly for LTE bands 42/43/48/49 applications.

This study explores the implications of merging two fundamentally different types of banks: Islamic and conventional banks. The research aims to provide insight into such a merger's unique opportunities and challenges and offer strategic guidance for future mergers. A balanced scorecard-based strategic analysis using Quantum Spherical Fuzzy Decision-Making Approach was used to develop the merged bank's short- and long-term strategic plans. The balanced scorecard included 12 key performance indicators (KPIs) in 4 groups, and the methodology also incorporated several questions to guide the analysis. The study results offer valuable insights into the potential opportunities and challenges of merging these two types of banks and strategic recommendations for stakeholders at all levels. The study is a valuable guideline for future mergers between similar or different types of banks. Overall, the findings suggest that a well-planned merger strategy is essential for avoiding challenges and maximizing the benefits of merging Islamic and conventional banks. By integrating the strengths of both types of banks, a merged entity could create a competitive advantage and potentially improve financial performance. However, this requires careful consideration of cultural differences, regulatory challenges, and other factors that could impact the merger's success.

Titania is one of the most comprehensively studied nanostructures due to its widespread applications in production of catalytic, gas- sensing and corrosion- resistance materials [1]. M-polynomial of nanotubes has been vastly investigated as it produces many degree-based topological indices which are numerical parameters capturing structural and chemical properties. These indices are used in the development of quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSARs) in which the biological activity and other properties of molecules are correlated with their structure like boiling point, stability, strain energy etc of chemical compounds. In this paper, we determine M-polynomials of single-walled titanium (SW TiO2) nanotubes and recover important topological degree based indices of them to theoretically judge these nanotubes. We also use Maple to plot surfaces associated to different types of single-walled titanium (SW TiO2) nanotubes.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common form of cardiomyopathy in cats, and heart failure occurs as diastolic dysfunction progresses. HCM in cats is broadly classified as non-obstructive and obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, depending on the presence or absence of outflow tract obstruction. Measurement of the intraventricular pressure differences (IVPD) using Color M-mode (CMM) has attracted attention as a reliable diastolic index as it correlates with catheterization, the gold standard for assessment of diastolic performance. Since, IVPD is affected by the size of the heart, the intraventricular pressure gradient (IVPG) index, which is unaffected by heart size, is used by dividing IVPD be LV length. In the present study, CMM IVPG was used to non-invasively assess diastolic impairment in cats with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This study was conducted on ten control cats and 18 cats in the HCM group. Although no severe left atrial enlargement was observed in the HCM group, the Basal IVPG was significantly increased in the HOCM group compared to the control group. While IVPD typically suggests impaired diastolic function and reduced ventricular compliance, the significant increase observed in the HOCM group compared to controls may suggest an indirect elevation in left atrial pressure, likely secondary to left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. The increase in IVPG in HOCM, as shown in this study, is a pathological effect of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction that cannot be detected by conventional echocardiographic indices, and evaluating IVPG is useful for evaluating cardiac function from a different perspective than conventional methods.

Escherichia coli is a gram-negative commensal bacterium living in human and animal intestines. Its pathogenic strains are cause of high morbidity which can adversely affect people by causing urinary tract infections, food poisoning, septic shock, or meningitis. Humans can contract E. coli by eating contaminated food—such as raw or undercooked raw milk, meat products, and fresh produce sold in open markets—as well as by coming into contact with contaminated settings like wastewater, municipal water, soil, and faeces. Some pathogenic strains of E. coli have been identified in Nigeria such as enterohemorrhagic (EHEC), as well as enterotoxigenic (ETEC), enteropathogenic (EPEC), enteroinvasive (EIEC), enteroaggregative (EAEC), and verotoxigenic (VTEC). This causes acute watery or bloody diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and vomiting. Apart from the virulence profile of E. coli, antibiotic resistance mechanisms such as the presence of blaCTX-M found in humans, animals and environmental isolates which are of great importance and require surveillance and monitoring for emerging threats in resource-limited countries. This review is aimed at understanding the underlying mechanisms of evolution and antibiotic resistance in E. coli in Nigeria and highlighting the use of improving One Health approaches to combat the problem of emerging infectious diseases.

We report on the occurrence of natural Magnesium Alumina Silicate Hydrate (M-(A)-S-H) cement at Feragen and Leka in eastern and western Trøndelag Norway, respectively. Both occurrences are located in the sub-arctic climate zone and form in glacial till and moraine material deposited on ultramafic rock during the Weichselian glaciation. Weathering of serpentinized peridotite dissolve brucite and result in a relative high pH alkaline fluid that subsequently reacts with the felsic minerals of the till (quartz, plagioclase, K-feldspar) to form a cement consisting of an amorphous material or a mixture of nanocrystalline Mg-rich phyllosilicates, including illite. The presence of plagioclase in the till results in the enrichment of alumina in the cement, i.e., forms M-A-S-H instead of the M-S-H cement. Dissolution of quartz results in numerous etch-pits and negative quartz crystals filled with M-A-S-H cement. Where the quartz dissolution is faster that the cement precipitation, a honeycomb-like texture is formed. Compositionally the cemented till (tillite) contains more MgO and has a higher loss of ignition than the till, suggesting that the cement is formed by a MgO fluid that previously reacted with the peridotite. The M-(A)-S-H cemented till represent a new type of duricrust, coined magsilcrete. The study of natural Mg-cement provides information on peridotites as a Mg-source for Mg-cement and as a feedstock for CO2 sequestration.

Since the electro-hydraulic servo shaking table exists many nonlinear elements, such as, dead zone, friction and blacklash, its acceleration response has higher harmonics which result in acceleration harmonic distortion, when the electro-hydraulic system is excited by sinusoidal signal. For suppressing the harmonic distortion and precisely identify harmonics, a combination of the adaptive linear neural network and least mean M-estimate (ADALINE-LMM), is proposed to identify the amplitude and phase of each harmonic component. Namely, the Hampel’s three-part M-estimator is applied to provide thresholds for detecting and suppressing the error signal. Harmonic generators are used by this harmonic identification scheme to create input vectors and the value of the identified acceleration signal is subtracted from the true value of the system acceleration response to construct the criterion function. The weight vector of the ADALINE is updated iteratively by the LMM algorithm, and the amplitude and phase of each harmonic, even the results of harmonic components, can be computed directly online. The simulation and experiment are performed to validate the performance of the proposed algorithm. According to the experiment result, the above method of harmonic identification possesses great real-time performance and it has not only good convergence performance but also high identification precision.

Dyadic data which is also called co-occurrence data (COD) contains co-occurrences of objects. Searching for statistical models to represent dyadic data is necessary. Fortunately, finite mixture model is a solid statistical model to learn and make inference on dyadic data because mixture model is built smoothly and reliably by expectation maximization (EM) algorithm which is suitable to inherent spareness of dyadic data. This research summarizes mixture models for dyadic data. When each co-occurrence in dyadic data is associated with a value, there are many unaccomplished values because a lot of co-occurrences are inexistent. In this research, these unaccomplished values are estimated as mean (expectation) of random variable given partial probabilistic distributions inside dyadic mixture model.

As the rapid development of communication industry, especially the 5G communication and IOT, there will be plenty of electromagnetic (EM) waves in the free space, which carry lots of energies. However, some of these energies are wasted in free space. To reuse these wasted energies, significantly growing interests are towards to the energy harvesting antennas. This paper is aimed to investigate a wearable antenna which can transfer RF energy from ambient sources to direct current by a soft and portable textile antenna. Among the numerous signals in mobile network, the GSM 1800, 3G, WiFi and 4G/5G will be chosen due to the city signal intensity distribution. Hence, a corresponding triple bands antenna has been designed to cover those frequency bands. The CST STUDIO SUITE is used in whole process of antenna design and simulation. The proposed antenna is a hooked dipole antenna with tuning bar (HATB) whose ends have small folded part in each side for better bandwidth performance. The presented antenna provides a wide operating band from 1.8 GHz to 2.5 GHz below -10 dB in return loss. And methods to overcome interference between antennas is found. Furthermore, using the corresponding rectifier to achieve the RF/DC conversion. The overall efficiency of whole rectifier is about 56.8 %, and output power level of the antenna system is 45.92nW. The experimental results could indicate that my textile hooked antenna harvester is a good choice for the charging system of personal wearable attachment, which could achieve low power absorbing for long distance anytime and anywhere.

Natural Gas (NG) processing is a prominent industrial separation process. Among the available techniques, the innovative membrane process shows potential for efficient removal of impurities, including carbon dioxide (CO₂). This study focuses on utilizing breakthroughs in membrane separation to drive sustainable CO₂ extraction from natural gas. Through comprehensive research and analysis, we explore the effectiveness and feasibility of membrane-based systems in removing CO₂ impurities from NG, thus promoting greener and more sustainable industrial practices. Our findings underscore the transformative nature of membrane separation technology, presenting new possibilities for a more environmentally-friendly and sustainable approach to CO₂ extraction from natural gas.Natural Gas (NG) processing utilizes various techniques for impurity removal, with the membrane process emerging as a promising option for efficient carbon dioxide (CO₂) extraction. This research proposes the integration of a simple mathematical model into ASPEN HYSYS to design a membrane system for CO₂/CH₄ separation. The study also investigates parameter sensitivities by altering operating conditions, such as feed composition and pressure, as well as membrane properties, including selectivity. By analyzing these variables, we aim to optimize the performance and efficiency of the membrane system, facilitating the sustainable extraction of CO₂ from NG. The findings contribute to advancing the design and operation of membrane-based processes for CO₂ separation, paving the way for greener and more sustainable industrial practices. In addition, this study explores various configurations for optimizing the design of the membrane system, including single-stage with and without recycling as well as double-stage configurations. The investigation demonstrates that methane recovery can be enhanced through the recycling of the permeate stream and by implementing a double stage membrane system. These findings highlight the potential for improving the efficiency and performance of the membrane system, enabling higher methane recovery rates. By considering different configurations, this research contributes to the development of more effective and sustainable CO₂ extraction processes from natural gas.

From a differential geometric perspective, information geometry (IG) aims to characterise the structure of statistical geodesic models. The research done for this paper offers a novel method for modelling the information geometry of a queuing system. From the perspective of IG, the manifold of the transient M/M/infinity queue is described in this context. The Fisher Information matrix (FIM) as well as the inverse of (FIM), (IFIM) of transient M/M/infinity QM are devised. In addition to that, new results that uncovered the significant impact of stability of QM on the existence of (IFIM) are obtained. Moreover, the Geodesic equations of motion of the coordinates of the underlying transient are obtained. Also, it is revealed that stable QM is developable (i.e., has a zero Gaussian curvature) and has a non-zero Ricci Curvature Tensor (RCT). Novel stability dynamics of transient M/M/iInfinity queue manifold is revealed by discovering the mutual dual impact between the behaviour of (RCT) and the stability(instability) phases of M/M/Infinity QM. Furthermore, a new discovery that presents the significant impact of stability of queue manifold and the continuity of the unique representation between M/G/1 queue manifold and Ricci Curvature Tensor (RCT). The information matrix exponential (IME) is devised. Also, it is shown that stability of the devised (IME) enforces the instability of M/M/ Infinity QM. More interestingly, novel relativistic info-geometric queueing theoretic links are revealed .

The current work reports the upper bound of the state variable of the of the Pointwise Steady Fluid Flow Approximation (PSFFA) model of non-stationary M/Ek/1 queueing system.

Systematic results of lattice dynamical calculation are reported for the novel (SiC)m/(GeC)n superlattices (SLs) by exploiting a modified-linear chain model (M-LCM) and a realistic rigid-ion- model (RIM). By employing the bond polarizability method in the framework of M-LCM, we have simulated Raman intensities for the graded (SiC)10-D/(Si0.5Ge0.5C)D/(GeC)10-D/(Si0.5Ge0.5C)D SLs by carefully integrating interfacial layer thickness D (≡ 0, 1, 2, 3 monolayers (MLs)). The variation of D has initiated considerable up (down) shifts of GeC-, (SiC)-like Raman peaks in the middle of the optical phonon frequency region. With D = 3 MLs, the maximum energy shift (by ~ 47 cm-1) of SiC-like modes has caused substantial changes in the Raman intensity profiles linked to the localization of atomic displacements at the interfacial transition regions. This effect can be considered as a vital tool for authenticating the interfacial structures in technologically important SLs. By using a RIM, we have reported SL phonon dispersions along the growth [001] as well as in the plane [100], [110] perpendicular to the growth. Our simulations of phonons in the acoustic mode region have not only confirmed the formation of minigaps at the zone center and zone edges but also provided evidence of anti-crossing and phonon confinement. Besides examining angular dependence of zone-center optical modes, we have also discussed phonon folding, confinement and anisotropic behavior in (SiC)m/(GeC)n SLs.

Ante-mortem bovine tuberculosis (bTB) tests for buffaloes include the single comparative intradermal tuberculin test (SCITT), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) release assay (IGRA) and IFN-γ-inducible protein 10 release assay (IPRA). Although parallel test interpretation increases detection of Mycobacterium bovis-infected buffaloes, these algorithms may not be suitable for screening buffaloes in historically bTB-free herds. In this study, the specificities of three assays were determined using M. bovis unexposed herds, and a high specificity diagnostic algorithm developed. Serial test interpretation using the IGRA and IPRA showed significantly greater specificity (98.3%) than individual tests or parallel testing (73%). When the SCITT was added, the algorithm had a 100% specificity. Since the cytokine assays had imperfect specificity, potential cross-reactivity with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) was investigated. No association was found between NTM presence (in oronasal swab cultures) and positive cytokine assay results. As a proof-of-principle, serial testing was applied to high-value buffaloes (n=153) in a historically bTB-free herd. Buffaloes positive on a single test (n=28) were regarded as test negative. Four buffaloes were positive on IGRA and IPRA, and M. bovis infection was confirmed following culling. These results demonstrate the value of using IGRA and IPRA in series to screen buffalo herds with no previous history of M. bovis infection.

We find solutions of a magnetically charged non-singular black hole in some modified theory of gravity coupled with nonlinear electrodynamics. The metric of a magnetized black hole is obtained which has one (an extreme horizon), two horizons, or no horizons (naked singularity). Corrections to the Reissner-Nordstrom solution are found as the radius approaches to infinity. The asymptotic of the Ricci and Kretschmann scalars are calculated showing the absence of singularities. We study the thermodynamics of black holes by calculating the Hawking temperature and the heat capacity. It is demonstrated that phase transitions take place and we show that black holes are thermodynamically stable at some range of parameters.

Very disparate types of cell populations exhibit similar transcription specificity for certain genes. We identified 20 genes that were expressed preferentially in myoblasts and cerebellum (Myob/Cbl genes) and examined their cell/tissue-specific epigenetics using a combined approach of comparing DNA methylation, chromatin accessibility, and RNA expression in many different cell populations. Some Myob/Cbl genes shared DNA hypo- or hypermethylated regions in myoblasts and cerebellum. Particularly striking was ZNF556, whose promoter is hypomethylated in expressing cells but highly methylated in the many cell populations that do not express the gene. In reporter gene assays, we demonstrated that its promoter’s activity is methylation-sensitive. The atypical epigenetics of ZNF556 may have originated from its promoter’s hypomethylation and selective activation in sperm progenitors and oocytes. Five of the Myob/Cbl genes (KCNJ12, ST8SIA5, ZIC1, VAX2, and EN2) have much higher RNA levels in cerebellum than in myoblasts and displayed myoblast-specific hypermethylation upstream and/or downstream of their promoters that may downmodulate expression. Differential DNA methylation was associated with alternative promoter usage for Myob/Cbl genes MCF2L, DOK7, CNPY1, and ANK1. Myob/Cbl genes PAX3, LBX1, ZNF556, ZIC1, EN2, and VAX2 encode sequence-specific transcription factors, which likely help drive the myoblast and cerebellum specificity of other Myob/Cbl genes. Our study extends our understanding of epigenetic/transcription associations related to differentiation and may help elucidate relationships between epigenetic signatures and muscular dystrophies or cerebellar-linked neuropathologies.

Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is a RNA-containing enveloped virus, a member of the Flaviviridae family. Here we describe a detailed analysis of the size and structure of inactivated TBEV (the Sofyin-Chumakov TBEV strain, used in vaccines). Four analytical methods were used to analyze individual TBEV particles—negative staining TEM, cryo-EM, AFM, and NTA. All methods confirmed that the particles were monodisperse, and their mean size was ~50 nm. Cryo-EM data were used to obtain a 3D electron density model of the virus with clearly distinguishable E-proteins. STEM-EELS analysis detected phosphorous in the particles, which was interpreted as the RNA signal. Altogether, the described analytical procedures can be valuable for the further analysis of vaccine inactivated virus samples.

The presence of potentially pathogenic bacteria on veterinary clinic surfaces may be problematic. In this study we collected swab samples (Fisherbrand, double transport swabs with Stuart’s liquid medium) and water samples from five veterinary rehabilitation clinics. Swabs and water samples were transported to a microbiology lab for processing. At the lab swabs were used to inoculated Hardy’s Cdiff Banana broth (for Clostridium difficile [Cdiff]), and five different types of bacterial growth media, including: Hardy CHROM MRSA agar (methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus [MRSA], and S. pseudintermedius [SIM]), Mannitol Salt Agar (S. aureus), Eosin Methylene Blue agar (enterics [ENT]), Pseudomonas Isolation agar (Pseudomonas sp.), and Tryptic Soy Agar [TSA] (non-specific). The most prominent species cultured was Cdiff (on nearly 55% of swabs). Bacillus sp. and Enterics were encountered on nearly 35% of swabs, with MRSA and SIM on just over 10% of swabs. The most contaminated sample site was harnesses/life jackets used with the underwater treadmill (33% of swabs). Underwater treadmill water had total bacterial counts from 1.6 to 2.7 e3 cfu/ml. Of all bacterial species detected SIM tends to be more pathogenic for dogs. Targeted cleaning/disinfecting in these clinics could help reduce risks for both animals and caregivers utilizing these clinics.

This literature review aims to gain a deeper understanding of Spinosaurus aegyptiacus’s dorsal sail regarding its function as thermoregulation, display, or hydrodynamic. The function of S. aegyptiacus’s dorsal sail has been widely debated for many years. The three most popular hypotheses are that it was used as a biological mechanism of thermoregulation, display, or hydrodynamic. The display hypothesis includes attracting mates, intimidating rivals, and social communication with other members. This literature review delves into each of the three hypotheses using past studies and excavation sites to analyze their validity. For the hydrodynamic aspect, the lifestyle of S. aegyptiacus must first be established. Based on existing research, we cannot conclude that there is a definitive primary function of Spinosaurus aegyptiacus’s dorsal sail. However, it is likely that its sail served the crucial function of display, since it would have a large surface area and could thus be a distinguishable characteristic of S. aegyptiacus that could determine mating success. Additionally, it is probable that the sail had supplementary roles in thermoregulation and hydrodynamics.

Escherichia coli is an indicator microorganism in One Health antibiotic resistance surveillance programmes. The purpose of the study was to describe and compare E. coli isolates obtained from pigs and human contacts from a commercial farm in South Africa using conventional methods and whole genome sequencing (WGS). Porcine E. coli isolates were proportionally more resistant phenotypically and harboured a richer diversity of antibiotic resistance genes, as compared to human E. coli isolates. Different pathovars, namely ExPEC (12.43%, 21/169), ETEC (4.14%; 7/169), EPEC (2.96%, 5/169), EAEC (2.96%, 5/169) and STEC (1.18%, 2/169) were detected at low frequencies. Sequence type complex (STc) 10 were the most prevalent (85.51%, 59/169) among human and porcine isolates. Six STcs (STc10, STc86, STc168, STc206, STc278 and STc469) were shared at the human-livestock interface according to multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Core genome MLST and hierarchical clustering (HC) showed that human and porcine isolates were overall genetically diverse, but some clustering at HC2 to HC200 were observed. In conclusion, even though the isolates shared a spatio-temporal relationship, there were still differences in the virulence potential, antibiotic resistance profiles, and cgMLST and HC according to the source of isolation.

The identification of a new virus Kiparis-144 (KiparisV) in a half-fed tick I persulcatus, removed from a person in the south of the Russian Far East, determined the goal of further research - to study its role in human pathology and the characteristics of its behavior in the tick microbiome. An ELISA study of 439 blood samples from people affected by tick bites indicated a fairly frequent (up to 16.4±1.7%) encounter of people with the KiparisV virus in the territory of natural foci of the Primorsky Territory. It has been shown that this virus, when mono-infected, can cause clinical symptoms characteristic of acute respiratory diseases. During co-infection under the influence of the KiparisV, there was an increase in the activity of Borrelia spp. with the constant production of antibodies to them only of the IgM class and clinical symptoms of Lyme disease for one year (observation period). Electron microscopy of the KiparisV found in a tick removed from a patient showed a picture of the relationship of the KiparisV (up to 100 nm in size) with unknown representatives of the tick microbiome - pathogens of a viral or bacterial nature. In a comparative aspect, a similar electron microscopic picture of the interaction of the KiparisV virus with a known pathogen of viral nature, the ectromelia virus (ECTV), is presented. The importance of the electron microscopy method in describing the tick microbiome is shown. Thus, it has been established that when co-cultivated in the system the helper-virus KiparisV probably tends to use another pathogen of the tick microbiome for its reproduction, influencing its pathogenicity.

a Special Issue of Microorganisms devoted to ‘Microbial Biocatalysis and Biodegradation’ would be incomplete without some form of acknowledgement of the many important roles that dioxygen-dependent enzymes (principally mono- and dioxygenases) play in relevant aspects of biooxygenation. This is reflected by the multiple strategic roles that dioxygen -dependent microbial enzymes play both in generating valuable synthons for chemoenzymatic synthesis, and in facilitating key reactions that drive the global geochemical Carbon Cycle. A useful insight into this relationship can be gained by reviewing the evolution of the current status of 2,5-diketocamphane 1,2-monooxygenase (EC 1.14.14.108) from camphor-grown Pseudomonas putida ATCC 17453. Over the last sixty years, the perceived nature of this monooxygenase has transmogrified significantly. Commencing in the 1960s, extensive initial studies consistently reported that the enzyme was a monomeric true flavoprotein dependent on both FMNH₂ and nonheme iron as bound cofactors. However, over the last decade all those criteria have changed absolutely, and the enzyme is currently acknowledged to be a metal ion-independent homodimeric flavin-dependent two-component monooxygenase deploying FMNH₂ as a cosubstrate. That transition is a paradigm of the ever evolving nature of scientific knowledge.

Understanding the structural intricacies of RNA molecules is essential for deciphering numerous biological processes. Traditionally, scientists have relied on experimental methods to gain insights and draw conclusions. However, the recent advent of advanced computational techniques has significantly accelerated and refined the accuracy of research results in several areas. A particularly challenging aspect of RNA analysis is the prediction of its secondary structure, which is crucial for elucidating its functional role in biological systems. This paper deals with the prediction of pseudoknots in RNA, focusing on two types of pseudoknots: K-type and M-type pseudoknots. Pseudoknots are complex RNA formations in which nucleotides in a loop form base pairs with nucleotides outside the loop and thus contribute to essential biological functions. Accurate prediction of these structures is crucial for understanding RNA dynamics and interactions. Building on our previous work in which we developed a framework for the recognition of H- and L-type pseudoknots, an extended grammar-based framework tailored to the prediction of K- and M-type pseudoknots is proposed. This approach uses syntactic pattern recognition techniques and provides a systematic method to identify and characterize these complex RNA structures. Our framework uses context-free grammars (CFGs) to model RNA sequences and predict the occurrence of pseudoknots. By formulating specific grammatical rules for type K and type M pseudoknots, we enable efficient parsing of RNA sequences to recognize potential pseudoknot configurations. This method ensures an exhaustive exploration of possible pseudoknot structures within a reasonable time frame. In addition, the proposed method incorporates essential concepts of biology, such as base pairing optimization and free energy reduction, to improve the accuracy of pseudoknot prediction. These principles are crucial to ensure that the predicted structures are biologically plausible. By embedding these principles into our grammar-based framework, we aim to predict RNA conformations that are both theoretically sound and biologically relevant.

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

A new method for the synthesis of azido-propargyloxy derivatives of 1,3,5-triazine has been developed. The antibacterial activity against E. coli bacteria of propargyloxy substituted 1,3,5-triazines - 2,4,6-trispropargyloxy-1,3,5-triazine, 2-azido-4,6-bispropargyloxy-1,3,5-triazine and 2,4-diazido-6-propargyloxy-1,3,5-triazine and their hyperbranched polymers. It has been shown that the presence of an azide group in the compound directly affects the antibacterial activity. The cytotoxicity of these compounds against the M-HeLa, FetMSC and Vero cell lines was studied. The IC50 value was determined for low molecular weight compounds. It has been shown that hyperbranched polymers without azide groups don’t exhibit pronounced cytotoxicity and can be used in biomedical applications.

The migration from MATLAB to Python (M-to-PY) has gained significant traction in recent computational research. While MATLAB has long served as a linchpin in myriad scientific endeavors, there's an emerging trend to rejuvenate these projects using Python's extensive AI tools and libraries. This study presents a semi-automated process for M-to-PY conversion, using a detailed case study of an image skeletonization project comprising fifteen MATLAB files and a 1404-image dataset. Skeletonization is foundational for ongoing 3D motion detection research using AI transformers, predominantly developed in Python. The utilization of ChatGPT-4, acting as an AI co-programmer, is pivotal in this conversion. By leveraging the public OpenAI API, we developed an M-to-PY converter prototype, evaluated its efficacy using test cases from the Bard bot, and subsequently employed the converted code in an AI application. The dual contributions encompass a well-tested M-to-PY converter and a Skeleton App capable of sketching and skeletonizing any given image, enriching the AI toolset. This study accentuates how AI resources, like ChatGPT-4, can simplify code transitions, opening doors for innovative AI implementations using primarily MATLAB-coded scientific research.

Microarray patches (MAPs) have the potential to be a safer, more acceptable, easier to use, and more cost-effective means for the administration of vaccines than injection by needle and syringe. Here, we report findings from a randomized, partially double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase I trial using the Vaxxas high-density MAP (HD-MAP) to deliver a measles rubella (MR) vaccine. Healthy adults (N = 63, age 18–50 years) were randomly assigned 1:1:1:1 to four groups: uncoated (placebo) HD-MAPs, low-dose MR HD-MAPs (~3,100 median cell-culture infectious dose [CCID50] measles, ~4,300 CCID50 rubella); high dose MR-HD-MAPs (~9,300 CCID50 measles, ~12,900 CCID50 rubella); or a sub-cutaneous (SC) injection of an approved MR vaccine, MR-Vac (≥1,000 CCID50 per virus). The MR vaccines were stable and remained viable on HD-MAPs when stored at 2–8°C for at least 24 months. When MR HD-MAPs stored at 2–8°C for 24 months were transferred to 40°C for 3 days in a controlled temperature excursion, loss of potency was minimal, and MR HD-MAPs still met World Health Organisation (WHO) specifications. MR HD-MAP vaccination was safe and well-tolerated; any systemic or local adverse events (AEs) were mild or moderate. Similar levels of binding and neutralizing antibodies to measles and rubella were induced by low-dose and high-dose MR HD-MAPs and MR-Vac. The neutralizing antibody seroconversion rates at day 28 after vaccination for the low-dose HD-MAP, high-dose HD-MAP and MR-Vac groups were 37.5%, 18.8% and 35.7% respectively for measles and 37.5%, 25.0% and 35.7% respectively for rubella. Most participants were seropositive for measles and rubella antibodies at baseline, which appeared to negatively impact the number of participants that seroconverted to vaccines delivered by either route. The data reported here suggest HD-MAPs could be a valuable means for delivering MR-vaccine to hard-to-reach populations and support further development. Clinical trial registry number: ACTRN12621000820808.

Acute and chronic bone infections, especially those caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), remains a major complication and therapeutic challenge. It is documented that local administration of vancomycin offers better results than the usual routes of administration (e.g. intravenous) when ischemic areas are present. In this work, we evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy against S. aureus and S. epidermidis and analyzed the potential cytotoxic effect of a novel hybrid 3D-printed scaffold based on poly(caprolactone) and chitosan loaded with different vancomycin concentrations (1, 5, 10 and 20%). For this purpose, vancomycin release was measured by means of HPLC, and the biological response of ah-BM-MSCs in the presence of the scaffolds was evaluated in terms of cytotoxicity (LDH activity), proliferation (AlamarBlueⓇ) and osteogenic differentiation (ALP activity, Alizarin Red staining). In addition, two cold plasma treatments were evaluated to improve the adhesion of hydrophobic polymers to hydrogels. The hybrid PCL/CS/Van scaffolds tested were found to be biocompatible, bioactive, and bactericide, as demonstrated by no cytotoxicity or functional alteration and by bacterial inhibition. Our results suggest that the scaffolds developed would be excellent candidates to be used in a wide range of biomedical fields such as drug delivery systems or tissue engineering applications.