This stability analysis method is simply represented and understood on a Bode plot of two impedances without complex equations. The external impedance of the charging system is properly quantified and designed based on the stability criteria by analyzing.

The main objective of the present study is to demonstrate the possibility of actively influencing the position of the bow shock wave and the main parameters of supersonic flow over a blunt body by organizing a gas discharge near the front surface, in the region between the body and the bow shock wave. The research is carried out using both experimental and numerical methods. The working gas was xenon. It is shown that the steady bow shock wave stand-off distance along with the current and power of the discharge, is associated with the change in the adiabatic index of the plasma created by the discharge, which, in turn, is determined by the plasma parameters, such as the degrees of nonequilibrium and the degree of ionization. It is shown that the adiabatic index with the power supplied to the impact zone in the range of 30-120 kW can both increase and de-crease in the range of 1.25-1.288. The study of the discharge created plasma zone was conducted and the correspondence between the discharge current and power, and the average parameters in the plasma zone created by the discharge is presented. A good agreement between the numerical and experimental data was shown. The results may be useful in developing control systems for high-speed civil aircrafts.

p-type Ag-N dual acceptor doped ZnO thin films with long electrical stability were deposited by DC magnetron reactive co-sputtering technique. After deposition, the films were annealed at 400 °C for one hour in a nitrogen-controlled atmosphere. The deposited films were amorphous. However, after annealing they crystallize in the typical hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO. The Ag-N dual acceptors were incorporated substitutionally in the structure of zinc oxide and achieving that the three samples presented the p-type conductivity in the ZnO. Initial electrical properties showed a low resistivity of from 1 to10^{−3} Ω.cm, Hall mobility of tens cm2/V.s and a hole concentration from 10^{17} to 10^{19} cm^{−3}. The electrical stability analysis reveals that the p-type conductivity of the ZnO:Ag,N films is very stable and does not revert to n-type, even after 36 months of aging. These results reveal the feasibility of using these films for applications in short-wavelength or transparent optoelectronic devices.

Stability studies remain a crucial aspect of power systems dynamic analysis, and are typically explored in three main categories: numerical methods, linearization techniques, or direct methods, which utilize Lyapunov energy functions. This paper belongs to the third category, and highlights the usefulness of the Popov stability criterion in the analysis of nonlinear power system models. The main advantage of this criterion is that it provides conditions for global asymptotic stability of an equilibrium point, for a nonlinear dynamic system. We show a general method to apply this stability criterion, and examine its uses in several specific applications and case-studies. The results are demonstrated by analyzing the stability of a system that includes a grid-connected storage device and a renewable energy source.

Financial system is essentially chaotic and unstable if there is not any external inputs. By means of Lyapunov function method, design of switching law, novel fuzzy assumption, $L^p$ estimation technique and Laplace semigroup theory, the author presents the boundedness and LMI-based (globally) asymptotical input-to-state stability criteria of financial systems. Particularly, the globally asymptotical stability in the meaning of switching implies that when the time $t$ is big enough, the dynamic of any subsystem must approach its unique equilibrium point. Besides, the global financial crisis often erupts periodically, which illuminates that the global stability in the classical sense is actually meaningless. So the stability in the meaning of switching proposed in this paper is suitable and appropriate. Numerical examples illuminate the effectiveness of the obtained results.

In the present study, we introduce the two dimensional Chlodovsky type Bernstein operators based on (p,q)−integer. We examine approximation properties of our new operator by the help of Korovkin-type theorem. Further, we present the local approximation properties and establish the rates of convergence by means of the modulus of continuity and the Lipschitz type maximal function. Also, we give a Voronovskaja type theorem for this operators. And, we investigate weighted approximation properties of these operators and estimate rate of convergence in the same space. Finally, with the help of Maple, illustrative graphics show the rate of convergence of these operators to certain functions . The optimization of approximation speeds by operators during system control provides significant improvements in stability and performance. As a result, the control and modeling of dynamic systems become more efficient and effective through innovative methods. These advancements in the fields of modeling fractional differential equations and control theory offer substantial benefits to both modeling and optimization processes, expanding the range of applications in these areas.

In many practical applications, it is more convenient to characterize the quality of production processes or service operations throughout the count of nonconformities. In the context of SPC, nonconformities are usually assumed to appear according to the binomial probability model. The conventional way for monitoring nonconformities involves Shewhart-type control procedures based on both constant and time-varying sample sizes. In this article, an EWMA scheme is proposed for monitoring the fraction of nonconforming items with time-varying sample sizes. The proposed control chart is referred to as the EWMAG-B and can be easily adapted to work with a constant sample size by fixing it at a needed value. By means of simulation, it was found out that the EWMAG-B chart outperforms the conventional p control chart in Phase II while detecting changes in the process level is wanted.

The goal of the manuscript is to design a relatively best control structure for the noise suppression of a drone’s camera gimbal action. The gimbal’s movement can be simplified as a rest-to-rest reorientation system that can achieve the boundary result of a dynamic system. Six different control architectures are proposed and evaluated based on their ability to control the trajectory of the dynamic-system position and speed, their running time, and quadratic cost. The robustness of the control architecture to uncertainties in inertia and sensor noise is also analyzed. Monte Carlo figures are used to assess the performance of the six control systems. The conditions for applying different architectures are identified through this analysis. The analysis and experimental tests reveal the most suitable control of the drone’s camera gimbal rotation.

This paper introduces a chip-level oven-controlled system for improving the temperature stability of MEMS resonators. Wherein the resonator and the micro-hotplate are manufactured by MEMS technology, then wire-bounded in a package shell at the chip level. The proposed resonator is transduced by the AlN film, and its temperature is monitored by temperature-sensing resistors on both sides. The designed micro-hotplate is placed at the bottom of the resonator chip as a heater and insulated by airgel. The PID pulse width modulation (PWM) circuit controls the heater according to the temperature detection result to provide a constant temperature for the resonator. The proposed oven-controlled MEMS resonator (OCMR) exhibits a frequency drift of 3.5ppm in the range of -50°C to 125°C, and the method also can be applied to other MEMS devices that require temperature control.

Modelling errors, robust stabilization/tracking problems under parameter and model uncertainties complicate the control of the flexible underactuated systems. Chattering-free sliding-mode based input-output control law realizes robustness against the structured and unstructured uncertainties in the system dynamics and avoids excitation of unmodeled dynamics. The main purpose is to propose a robust adaptive solution for stabilizing and tracking direct-drive (DD) flexible robot arms under parameter and model uncertainties, as well as external disturbances. A lightweight robot arm subject to external and internal dynamic effects was taken into consideration. The challenges are compensating actuator dynamics with the inverter switching effects and torque ripples, stabilizing the zero dynamics under parameter/model uncertainties and disturbances while precisely track the predefined reference position. The precise control of this kind of system demands an accurate system model and knowledge of all sources that excite unmodeled dynamics. For this purpose, equations of motion for a flexible robot arm were derived and formulated for the large motion via Lagrange’s method. The goals were determined to achieve high-speed, precise position control, and satisfied accuracy by compensating the unwanted torque ripple and friction that degrades performance through an adaptive robust control approach. The actuator dynamics and their effect on the torque output were investigated due to the transmitted torque to the load side. The high-performance goals, precision&robustness issues, and stability concerns were satisfied by using robust-adaptive input-output linearization-based control law combining chattering-free sliding mode control (SMC) while avoiding the excitation of unmodeled dynamics.

High rates of phosphorus (P) currently being applied to soils for the production of vegetables in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam has led to the concern of its negative effect on the economics and the environment. This research presents a comprehensive study on the determination of P supplying capacity in this region of Vietnam to examine the possibility of reducing P fertilizer input. One hundred twenty (120) soil samples were collected to evaluate total P and Bray 1 available P in the soils. Phosphorus maximum sorption, degree of P saturation, P release, and the effect of P fertilizer on corn (Zea mays L.) yield in greenhouse and fields were also determined. Total P concentrations of 56.7% soil samples evaluated yielded high P concentrations (>560 mg P/kg), while 74.2% of the samples had high Bray 1 available P concentrations (>20 mg P/kg soil). Maximum P sorption ranged from 149 to 555 mg P/kg soil, respectively and has negative correlation to available P (r = - 0.63*), degrees of P saturation ranged from 0.63 to 5.46% correlated to available P (r = 0.98**) and maximum P release ranged from 1.2 to 61.9 mg P/kg soil, respectively correlated to available P (r = 0.96**). Corn grown in soils with available P concentrations >15 mg P/kg did not respond to P fertilizer in greenhouse or field experiments. We conclude that many farmers in this region can reduce P fertilizer input, thus increasing their profits and reducing negative environmental impacts associated with excess soil P for sustainable agriculture.

In the present study, we introduce the two dimensional Chlodovsky type Bernstein operators based on (p, q)−integer. We examine approximation properties of our new operator by the help of Korovkin-type theorem. Further, we present the local approximation properties and establish the rates of convergence by means of the modulus of continuity and the Lipschitz type maximal function. Also, we give a Voronovskaja type theorem for this operators. And, we investigate weighted approximation properties of these operators and estimate rate of convergence in the same space. Finally, with the help of Maple, illustrative graphics show the rate of convergence of these operators to certain functions . The optimization of approximation speeds by operators during system control provides significant improvements in stability and performance. As a result, the control and modeling of dynamic systems become more efficient and effective through innovative methods. These advancements in the fields of modeling fractional differential equations and control theory offer substantial benefits to both modeling and optimization processes, expanding the range of applications in these areas.

Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a condition marked by a significant drop in blood pressure upon standing, resulting from impaired autonomic regulation of vascular tone and blood volume. This study investigates the prevalence, physiological mechanisms, and occupational risk factors for OH among high-risk professions in Nepal, such as traffic police, security guards, and shopkeepers. Using a cross-sectional design, participants were evaluated for blood pressure variability, autonomic function, and fluid balance. The findings reveal a high incidence of OH, linked to reduced baroreceptor sensitivity and impaired sympathetic activation due to prolonged standing and inadequate hydration. This study highlights the need for tailored clinical interventions and workplace modifications to mitigate OH in vulnerable occupational groups.

Sewage sludge is an organic waste generated in waste-water treatment plants with certain content of nutrients, what may potentially be used as a source of slow release fertilizer, especially as phosphorus (P) source, but it demands some pre-treatment and the content of P is much lower compared to soluble mineral fertilizers. For these reasons, composted sewage sludge was used to manufacture pelletized organomineral fertilizers, mixing it with the inorganic sources monoammonium phosphate (MAP) and AshDec® (ASD) (thermochemically incinerated sewage sludge). The fertilizers were physiochemically characterized and evaluated as to the dynamics of soil P solubilization, and the forms of P remaining according to its lability. The sources evaluated were: organic compost of sewage sludge powder (SSC), pelletized SSC (SCP), pelletized organominerals SSC+MAP (S+MAP) and SSC+ASD (S+ASD), ASD alone, all compared to a soluble mineral fertilizer (MAP), and a control without P fertilizer. A test was conducted in leaching columns with 50 g of soil (Oxisol), where the fertilizers were applied at a dose of 100 mg P/column, and 30 mL of water or 2% citric acid were added daily for 30 consecutive days. The collected leachates had pH measured and P content determined. Pelletizing process resulted in denser products and promoted more gradual P release. The organomineral S+MAP was the most water-soluble recycled source, solubilizing about 70% of the total P, while the others presented much lower solubilization (<20%). In contrast, all fertilizers showed high solubility in 2% citric acid (except for S+ASD). After leaching, the greatest amount of P remaining in the soil as labile and moderately labile. Composting and the AshDec process produced materials with slow P solubilization, which would be favoured to solubilize in acidic soils and acidic rhizosphere conditions. In turn, the organomineral mixture of SSC with a highly soluble mineral fertilizer (MAP) resulted in a promising product with intermediate nutrient solubility, better synchronized with crop demand, thus increasing efficiency in P use.

In this paper, by using the variational method, a sufficient condition for the unique existence of the stationary solution of the reaction-diffusion ecosystem is obtained, which directly leads to the global asymptotic stability of the unique equilibrium point. Moreover, delayed feedback ecosystem with reaction-diffusion item is considered, and utilizing impulse control results in the globally exponential stability criterion of the delayed ecosystem. It is worth mentioning that the Neumann zero-boundary value that the infected and the susceptible people or animals should be controlled in the epidemic prevention area and not allowed to cross the border, which is a good simulation of the actual situation of epidemic prevention. And numerical examples illuminate the effectiveness of impulse control, which has a certain enlightening effect on the actual epidemic prevention work . That is, in the face of the epidemic situation, taking a certain frequency of positive and effective epidemic prevention measures is conducive to the stability and control of the epidemic situation. Particularly, the newly-obtained theorems quantifies this feasible step. Besides, utilizing Laplacian semigroup derives the $p$th moment stability criterion for the impulsive ecosystem.

This work investigates the sliding mode control (SMC) problem for a class of uncertain switched systems subject to asynchronous switching and an assigned finite time constraint. Two important issues are how to ensure the reachability of state trajectories within the assigned time and the input-to-output finite-time stability (IO-FTS) of the closed-loop switched systems during the whole phase under asynchronous switching. To achieve these objectives, an asynchronous sliding mode controller with adjustable parameters is constructed to drive the state trajectories onto the sliding surface during the assigned finite-time interval. By means of the partitioning strategy, sufficient conditions for the IO-FTS of the closed-loop switched are derived during the whole phase [0,T] using the multiple Lyapunov function (MLF) approach. Additionally, the asynchronous characteristics are detailedly investigated while analyzing the reachability of a specified sliding surface. Finally, an illustrative example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Ralstonia solanacearum is a pathogen that causes bacterial wilt producing severe damage in staple solanaceous crops. Traditional control has low efficacy and/or environmental impact. Recently, the bases of a new biotechnological method by lytic bacteriophages vRsoP-WF2, vRsoP-WM2 and vRsoP-WR2 with specific activity against R. solanacearum were established. However, some aspects remain unknown, such as the survival and maintenance of the lytic activity after submission to a preservation method as the lyophilization. To this end, viability and stability of lyophilized vRsoP-WF2, vRsoP-WM2 and vRsoP-WR2 and their capacity for bacterial wilt biocontrol have been determined against one pathogenic Spanish reference strain of R. solanacearum in susceptible tomato plants in different conditions and making use of various cryoprotectants. The assays carried out have shown satisfactory results with respect to the viability and stability of the bacteriophages after the lyophilization process, maintaining high titres throughout the experimental period, also with respect to the capacity of the bacteriophages for the biological control of bacterial wilt, controlling this disease in more than 50% of the plants. The results offer good prospects for the use of lyophilization as a conservation method for the lytic bacteriophages of R. solanacearum in view of their commercialization as biocontrol agents.

In the DC distribution networks, DC bus voltage is maintained by the grid-connected converter, the controllability and reliability of the grid-connected converter significantly affects the bus voltage characteristic. To address the problem of limited stability and frequent oscillations, this paper proposes a state feedback control method for the AC/DC converter. Conventional AC/DC converter adopts the voltage-current double-closed-loop control structure with the proportional integral (PI) controllers, which is the equivalent of the typical type II control system, but the typical type II control system cannot fully settle the stability and immunity problems. In contrast, the state feedback control strategy not only achieves the control objectives of the traditional double-closed-loop control, but also reduce the AC/DC converter system model to a typical I-type system, which improves the stability, thus enhances the oscillation suppression capability of the bus voltage. By selecting multiple state variables and designing the converter pole configuration range, the proposed single-loop state feedback control method manages to optimize both the dynamic and steady-state performances of the grid-connected AC/DC converter. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed single-loop state feedback control strategy has been verified by both the simulation and experiment results.

A cross-sectional survey was distributed to 1322 members of a 1-on1 personalized strength training studio. 366 respondents (n=134 male and n=232 female), all aged over 20 years reported considerable training experience; 55% of males and 42% of females reporting 5+ years. Data were analyzed and reported descriptively with differences >5% identified based on use of the 5-point likert scale, sample size and nature of the observations. Disparity between males and females were identified; males reported higher perceptions of managing effort, technique, and programming without supervision compared to females. Safety was noted as being more important to females compared to males. Qualitatively, additional themes were raised including analogy of the personal relationship between trainer and trainee being similar to that of medical professionals. This was validated where participants discussed their adaptations from supervised strength training including quality of life in aging, and recovery from medical conditions and injury. Data is discussed in context of a previous body of literature suggesting males falsely report higher confidence in tasks compared to females, particularly in relation to effort, role models, and verbal encouragement. This research proves beneficial for strength training practitioners in enhancing their understanding and expectations of clients, as well as hopefully proving insightful in engaging more people in strength training.

In this study, a novel two-layer control scheme aimed at enhancing the dynamic performance of a nonlinear vehicle through the utilization of an optimal control approach grounded in predictive control principles is presented. The first layer of our control system focuses on the computation of an optimized rotational torque that ensures lateral dynamic stability. This torque is subsequently translated into differential forces acting on the wheels, employing the inverse tire model to derive the desired longitudinal slips. These slip values are then transmitted to the second layer of our control system. In the second layer, the electric motors associated with the vehicle's wheels dynamically adjust the input torque to accurately track the desired slip, thereby ensuring the overall stability of the electric vehicle. In view of the paramount importance of energy consumption in electric vehicles, we adopt optimal control strategies to substantially minimize battery utilization. To this end, careful selection of appropriate weighting coefficients in the control laws enables us to maintain the electric motors within their permissible operational range while simultaneously minimizing battery energy consumption for desired slip tracking. Extensive simulation results validate the effectiveness of our proposed control system in proficiently managing nonlinear effects and safeguarding the vehicle's stability.

The open communication is an exigent need for future power system where the time delay is unavoidable. In order to secure the stability of the grid, the frequency must remain within its limited range which is achieved through the load frequency control. The load frequency control signals are transmitted through communication networks which induces time delay that could destabilize the power systems. So, in order to guarantee the stability the delay margin should be computed. In this paper, we present a new method for calculating the delay margin in load frequency control systems. The transcendental time delay characteristics equation is transformed to frequency dependant equation. The spectral radius is used to find the frequencies at which the roots crosses the imaginary axis. The crossing frequencies are determined through the sweeping test and the binary iteration algorithm. A one-area load frequency control system is chosen as case study. The effectiveness of the proposed method has been proved through comparing with the most recent published methods. The method shows its merit with less conservativeness and less computations. The PI controller gains are preferable to be chosen large to reduce the damping, however, the delay margin decreases with increasing the PI controller gains.

In this paper, we introduce the (ρ,q)-analogue of the p-adic factorial function. By utilizing some properties of (ρ,q)-numbers, we obtain several new and interesting identities and formulas. We then construct the p-adic (ρ,q)-gamma function by means of the mentioned factorial function. We investigate several properties and relationships belonging to the foregoing gamma function, some of which are given for the case p = 2. We also derive more representations of the p-adic (ρ,q)-gamma function in general case. Moreover, we consider the p-adic (ρ,q)-Euler constant derived from the derivation of p-adic (ρ,q)-gamma function at x = 1. Furthermore, we provide a limit representation of aforementioned Euler constant based on (ρ,q)-numbers. Finally, we consider (ρ,q)-extension of the p-adic beta function via the p-adic (ρ,q)-gamma function and we then investigate various formulas and identities.

In this study, we propose a conservative and compact finite difference scheme designed to preserve both the mass change rate and energy for solving the sixth-order Boussinesq equation with the surface tension. Theoretical analysis confirms that the proposed scheme achieves second-order accuracy in temporal discretization and fourth-order accuracy in spatial discretization. The solvability, convergence, and stability of the difference scheme are rigorously established through the application of the discrete energy method. Additionally, a series of numerical experiments are conducted to illustrate the effectiveness and reliability of the conservative scheme for long-time simulations.

Adaptation to external forces relies on a well-functioning proprioceptive system including muscle spindle afferents. Muscle length-tension control in reaction to external forces is most important regarding the Adaptive Force (AF). This study investigated the effect of different procedures, which are assumed to influence the function of muscle spindles, on the AF. 19 elbow flexors of 12 healthy participants were assessed by an objectified manual muscle test (MMT) with different procedures: regular MMT, MMT after pre-contraction (self-estimated 20% MVIC) in lengthened position with passive return to test position (CL) and MMT after CL with a second pre-contraction in test position (CL-CT). During regular MMTs, muscles maintained their length up to 99.7±1.0% of the maximal AF (AFmax). After CL, muscles started to lengthen at 53.0±22.5% of AFmax. For CL-CT, muscles were again able to maintain the isometric position up to 98.3±5.5% of AFmax. AFisomax differed highly significantly between CL vs. CL-CT and regular MMT. CL is assumed to generate a slack of muscle spindles which led to a substantial reduction of the holding capacity. This was immediately erased by a pre-contraction in test position. The results substantiate that muscle spindle sensitivity seems to play an important role for neuromuscular functioning and musculoskeletal stability.

In this paper, we introduce a new class of $(p,q)$-analogue type of Fubini numbers and polynomials and investigate some properties of these polynomials. We establish summation formulas of these polynomials by summation techniques series. Furthermore, we consider some relationships for $(p,q)$-Fubini polynomials associated with $(p,q)$-Bernoulli polynomials, $(p,q)$-Euler polynomials and $(p,q)$-Genocchi polynomials and $(p,q)$-Stirling numbers of the second kind.

This paper presents a study on the influence of the frequency variation of a nonlinear1 control allocation technique execution, developed by the author [1], named by Fast Control2 Allocation (FCA) for the Quadrotor Tilt-Rotor (QTR) aircraft. Then, through Software In The3 Loop (SITL) simulation, the proposed work considers the use of Gazebo, QGroundControl, and4 Matlab applications, where different frequencies of the FCA can be implemented separated in5 Matlab, always analyzing the QTR stability conditions from the virtual environment performed in6 Gazebo. TheresultsshowedthattheFCAneedsatleast200HzoffrequencyfortheQTRsafeflight7 conditions, i. e., 2 times smaller than the main control loop frequency, 400 Hz. Lower frequencies8 than this one would case instability or crashes during the QTR Operation.

The renewable energy source plays a major role in the grid side power production. The stability analysis is very essential in the renewable energy converters. In this paper the bifurcation is analyzed in ZETA converter and Continuous input and output(CIO) power Buck Boost converter. The ZETA converter gives positive step down and step up output voltage and the CIO power converter gives the negative step up and step down output voltage. These converters are used in the DC micro grid with renewable energy as the source. The current mode control technique is applied to analyze the bifurcation behavior and the reference current is taken as the bifurcation parameter. When the reference current is varied, both the converters loses its stability and it enters into chaotic region through period doubling bifurcation. The simulation results are presented to study the performance behavior of both the converters. The stability region of both the converters are determined by deriving the Monodromy matrix approach.

This paper presents an improved droop control strategy for grid-connected inverter power stability and power quality under distorted with consideration of grid fluctuation and inter-harmonics. An instantaneous frequency without PLL and amplitude of capacitor voltage feed-forward control strategy is given to power stability control, meanwhile a grid current feedback control is given by an incomplete derivation with a high-pass filter, so that the harmonics and inter-harmonics current can be suppressed. These approaches can provide both good active and reactive power dynamic response under fluctuation of frequency, and rejection ability against harmonic and inter-harmonic voltage. Based on model of inverter, the proposed control strategies are designed in detail. Simulations and experiments are present to validate the effectiveness of proposed method.

Formaldehyde is generated via the biochemical and chemical pathways, and it widely exists in foods. Its chronic exposure causes carcinogenic, neurotoxic, reproductive, allergic, immunological, genetic and respiratory toxicities. However, food-sourced formaldehyde is usually neglected due to its rapid metabolism after intake. Compared with its residual level in processed foods, a large proportion of formaldehyde disappears because of its high reactivity. Nevertheless, its elimination reaction mechanism and the potential consequences remain unclear. In this review, the disappearing pathway of formaldehyde from two aspects, the formation of formaldehyde-derived toxins and aromas, was reviewed. This review article may help food scientists take appropriate strategies to use the beneficial reactions of formaldehyde or divert its harmful effects to beneficial ones.

Employee turnover is a significant issue for financial institutions, impacting productivity, increasing recruitment costs, and disrupting critical operations. In this project, this study aimed to predict employee turnover using a dataset containing attributes such as employee satisfaction, performance, and tenure. By framing the task as a binary classification problem, this study employed CatBoost and XGBoost, two advanced regression-based algorithms, to develop predictive models. This paper's analysis demonstrated that CatBoost outperformed XGBoost across all evaluation metrics, including MAE, MSE, RMSE, and R², making it the more effective model for predicting turnover in the financial sector. The study highlights key factors contributing to employee attrition, such as job satisfaction, tenure, and promotion opportunities, offering actionable insights for retention strategies. Additionally, by predicting probabilities rather than binary outcomes, this study aims to make more detailed decisions about employee retention. This research provides valuable tools for financial institutions to mitigate the risk of turnover, retain critical talent, and ensure operational continuity.

Granular material is one of the most common in nature. Recently, there has been a significant amount of interest in the granular materials, such as powders or sand. It is challenging to describe the motion of such kind of macroscopic size matter, because it behaves like solid, fluid or gas. Size division, pattern formation, avalanches, packing and convection - these are just a few examples from a wide range of observed phenomena that occur during the motion process of granular matter. Most of these processes are based by flow and no wonder that much effort has been devoted to obtain a hydrodynamic description in which granular materials are treated as a continuous medium. During the research of vertically shaken granular medium motion in an opened container it was found that experimental and numerical results are explained by hydrodynamic theory. This paper investigates the motion of a granular matter for a shallow, vertically shaken bed. We assume the Leidenfrost state as initial and the matter resembles a fluid heated up from below.A one-dimensional isothermal and a non-isothermal problem of granular material motion,simulatedby a hydrodynamic model are considered, and the material is assumed to be a continuous medium. The local temporal solvability of isothermal and non-isothermal initial boundary-value problem in Sobolev’s spaces is proved. This work presents a numerical study of the one-dimensional model of granular medium flow. The feature of this model is consideration of the Navier-Stokes equations accounting an interpolation form of VanderWaals constitutive equation for pressure. A finite-difference approximation for numerical solution is proposed.

This bibliometric study analysed breast cancer research trends and outputs from 2014 to 1 2023, utilising data from the Scopus database. The primary objectives include analysing publication 2 growth, citation metrics, document type distribution, leading countries, preferred journals and 3 authorship patterns. The study reveals a significant increase in breast cancer research publications, 4 with a total of 12,073 documents and 216,769 citations over the ten-year period. The United States 5 leads in publication output and citation impact, followed by China and Japan. Articles are the 6 predominant document type for total 73.4% of publications, while reviews and book chapters also 7 contribute notably. The most preferred journals for publishing breast cancer research include Breast 8 Cancer Research and Treatment, Clinical Breast Cancer, and Breast Cancer Research. Authorship 9 patterns show a trend towards multi-authored papers, with a substantial number of papers having 10 more than five authors. The study underscores the global collaborative effort in advancing breast 11 cancer research and highlights key areas for future exploration.

The article presents a new approach to the analysis of the stability of automatic systems with discrete links.In almost all modern automatic control systems, there are links that break signals in time. These are power controlled switches - transistors or thyristors operating in a pulsed mode and digital links in regulators.Time discretization significantly affects the stability of processes in the automatic control system. The theoretical analysis of such systems is rather complicated and requires a significant change in engineering approaches to analysis. In connection with the improvement of digital controllers and a significant increase in their performance, in recent years this problem has practically not been remembered. However, its mathematical "content" has not changed since the 80s of the 20th century, when discreteness began to play a major role among the problems hindering progress in automatic control systems, in terms of the transition to digital systems.In this paper, a new approach is proposed, which consists in interpreting the sampling operation by a link with the proposed frequency characteristic, which determines the suppression of input high-frequency signals. This link greatly simplifies engineering calculations and demonstrates the new capabilities of sampling systems. These possibilities include the rational distribution of digitalization resources - the number of bits and the sampling interval between the regulator channels, depending on the frequency range of the efficiency of these channels. Theoretical statements have been verified and confirmed by simulation. It is shown how this approach makes it possible to formulate new principles of construction of seemingly well-known controllers - PID controllers and variable structure systems (VSS).

Background: Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising field of study, aiming to revolutionize healthcare through the innovative development of drugs, diagnostic tools, and medical devices. As a result, healthcare professionals in training are constantly faced with the challenge of understanding and applying these emerging technologies. The objective of this study is to determine the factors to consider for including the teaching of nanotechnological tools in medical specialty postgraduate programs. Methods: A study based on the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) was conducted to identify the factors that promote and hinder the implementation of nanotechnology in certain postgraduate programs where nanotechnology is employed, such as Internal Medicine, Critical Care Medicine, Family Medicine, and Clinical Pharmacology at the School of Medicine of Universidad de La Sabana. A framework analysis was used to analyze the collected data. Results: Based on the two research questions, several aspects were identified for the inclusion of nanotechnology in the medical practice of specialties. Key challenges include lack of knowledge and resource availability, misinformation, and lack of knowledge, as well as paradigmatic analysis as the main obstacles to the use of nanotechnology. Conclusions: The findings provide a first-time study on nanotechnology curricula within medical specialty programs in Colombia, with potential extrapolation to similar situations in other medical schools.

The species and bio-availability of phosphorus (P) in primary, secondary and digested sludge were fractionated and further analyzed in this study. Results showed that inorganic P (IP) was the primary P fraction in the secondary sludge and digested sludge, in which non-apatite IP (NAIP) amounted to 91.6% and 69.3% of IP, respectively. Organic P (OP), accounting for about 71.7% of total P (TP), was the dominant P composition in primary sludge. The content of bio-available P was about 9.7, 43.4, 29.8 mg-P/g-TS in primary sludge, secondary sludge and digested sludge, respectively, suggesting secondary sludge is the optimal choice when land application of sewage sludge is taken into consideration, followed by digested sludge and primary sludge. Polyphosphate and orthophosphate, comprising approximately 54.3% and 89.2% of TP, was the dominant P species in the secondary sludge and digested sludge, respectively. Monoester-P (54.6% of TP in extract) and diester- P (24.1%) were identified as OP species in primary sludge by Phosphorus-31 nuclear magnetic resonance (31PNMR). The present results would be helpful for P recovery and recycle from sewage sludge in wastewater treatment plant.

The circuitry of the summarized "floating" differential stages (FDS) based on complementary field-effect transistors with a control p-n junction (CJFET), intended for use in low-noise analog microcircuits, for example, operational amplifiers. The results of modeling the flow characteristics of one of the CJFET FDSs in the LTSpice XVII environment at low temperatures (down to -197 ⁰С) and exposure to a neutron flux in the range of 1e13 ÷ 1e15 n / cm² are presented.

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

We conducted a comparative study on the development of two synthetic methods. The solvent-free synthesis is a green chemistry method developed in a bid to ameliorate environmental adverse effects of the conventional solvent-based synthesis. The synthesis of novel dichloro and polymethoxy p-nitrophenylhydrazones through solvent free technique gave moderate to high yields which were however lower than those of the solvent-based method. The established solvent-free approach has several benefits, including universality and simplicity of the approach, catalyst-free conditions, non-use of an organic solvent, quick reaction time, fast and efficient workup, and un-solvated pure products in moderate to high yields.

The increasing energy consumption and industrial activities that release carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into the atmosphere have become one of the most serious environmental issues of today. This article discusses the current status in Azerbaijan regarding the development of effective approaches to reduce carbon emissions and ensure sustainable development, and it proposes relevant strategies for managing the carbon footprint. By exploring the interrelationship between the economy and the environment, it aims to contribute to the formation of more effective policies for managing CO2 emissions in Azerbaijan. According to the results of the econometric model established within the research for the period of 1990-2023, as the Azerbaijan economy grows, per capita CO2 emissions tend to increase, which can be linked to rising industrial activity, energy consumption, and other factors driving economic growth. The presence of a positive long-term relationship between population growth and per capita CO2 emissions can be attributed to higher overall energy consumption, increased demand for goods and services, and rising transportation needs. The strong correlation between economic growth and CO2 emissions suggests that it may be too early to assert the validity of the Kuznets curve for Azerbaijan economy as a developing country.

Diospyros kaki, the most widely cultivated species of persimmon, has been long used in traditional medicine since its leaves extracts contain high amounts of flavonoids and terpenoids, endowed with potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic and antimicrobial effects. Re-cently, many in vitro and in vivo studies have assessed different potential health benefits of per-simmon leaves; however, its anticancer activity towards colorectal cancer (CRC), the second deadliest cancer in Western countries, has not been investigated in depth. Since CRC current therapies are associated with serious side effects and show no efficacy towards patients carrying RAS/BRAF mutations, the search for new and more effective therapies has turned to plant extracts, which could help reduce conventional drugs dosages and toxicity. The effect of Diospyros kaki al-coholic extract has been investigated on E705 CRC cell line, representative of most CRC patients, and on SW480 cells, carrying a KRAS activating mutation. This extract is effective in reducing tumor cells viability, without affecting the healthy mucosa cell line CCD 841, and it triggers apoptosis in CRC cells, by disrupting mitochondrial functionality and increasing oxidative stress.

Pre-transport management activities can cause stress, injuries, and mortality in poultry. This study aimed to gather information about the current pre-transport practices (selection of unfit chickens, catching preparations, catching, and crating) for spent hens and broilers by questioning Flemish poultry farmers. The results showed that catching preparations such as an extra selection of chickens unfit for transport was performed by a minority of the poultry farmers, and that layer farmers were less in line with the EU-legislation for water and feed withdrawal than broiler farmers. All birds were caught inverted except for one broiler farmer who used mechanical catching (not yet common in Flanders). Additionally, mechanical catching may involve extra costs, increased biosecurity risks, and specific recommendations for the stable (height and width). The broiler farmers preferred mechanical catching for broiler catchers' well-being, while upright catching was considered better for animal welfare than catching more than three chickens by one/two legs, mechanically, or by wings. Awareness of the need to perform an extra selection by the poultry farmers before catching is required. Preparations like closing areas under the aviary system and removing litter (layers) can further streamline the process and reduce animal suffering.

Arbutus unedo (strawberry tree) is a small Mediterranean tree capable of vigorous regrowth after disturbances like fire. Traditionally used for biomass fuel, its bark and branches hold potential for higher-value products through ecovalorisation into liquid mixtures that could replace petro-leum-based materials. This study aimed to explore the chemical composition of various compo-nents of Arbutus unedo and to produce a liquefied material from its internal (IB) and external bark (EB). Chemical compositions of internal and external bark were determined using TAPPI standards including ash, extractive content, lignin, and cellulose. Metal cations were analyzed by ICP. Liquefaction of bark was optimized in a PARR reactor, evaluating factors such as particle size, temperature, and time and the best polyols were monitored by FTIR-ATR. Polyurethane foams were made with internal and external bark liquefied materials by polymerization with isocyanate, a catalyst and water as blowing agent. Results showed that EB has a higher extractive and lignin content, while IB contains more cellu-lose. Liquefaction yields were higher for IB (74%) than EB (68%), with IB yielding polyols that produced stronger and more resilient foams. Mechanical properties of the foams were influenced by the NCO/OH ratio and catalyst levels. Overall, the internal bark demonstrated superior performance for foam production, highlighting its potential as an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-derived materials.

Introduction: Leptin and ghrelin are two hormones that play a role in weight homeostasis. Leptin, which is produced primarily by adipocytes and is dependent on body fat mass, suppresses appetite and increases energy expenditure. Conversely, ghrelin is the “hunger hormone”, it stimulates appetite and promotes fat storage. Bariatric surgery significantly alters the levels and activity of these hormones, contributing to weight loss and metabolic improvements. Clarifying the interplay between bariatric surgery, weight loss, physical exercise, leptin, and ghrelin is essential for developing comprehensive strategies for optimizing long-term outcomes for candidates for bariatric surgery, especially sarcopenic patients. Methods: This was a randomized controlled study with two groups (n=22). The patients in both groups have obesity and sarcopenia. A Roux-en-Ygastric bypass (RYGB) procedure was performed in all patients. The intervention group participated in a structured exercise program three times per week beginning one month after surgery and lasting 16 weeks. Patient assessment was performed before surgery (baseline) and after completion of the exercise program. The control group received the usual standard of care and was assessed similarly. Results: After surgery, weight, BMI and lean mass decreased significantly in both groups from baseline to the second assessment. Leptin was not significantly different from baseline to the second assessment in the physical exercise group but was significantly lower in the control group (p=0.05). Ghrelin increased over time in both groups, but the differences were not significant. When we associated leptin (the dependent variable) with weight (the independent variable), we found that lower weight was associated with lower leptin levels. A similar relationship was also observed between leptin and sarcopenia parameters (muscle strength and mass), as well as with bone health parameters (bone mineral density and t-score). Higher ghrelin levels were significantly associated with higher t-scores and z-score (p<0.05). Conclusion: Exercise has been shown to have a significant effect on leptin and ghrelin levels after bariatric surgery. By incorporating regular physical activity into their lifestyle, bariatric patients can optimize their weight loss outcomes and improve their overall health. After the physical exercise protocol, patients in the intervention group revealed more established leptin levels, which may indicate a protected pattern concerning decreased leptin levels. An unfavorable profile was evidenced, according to which greater weight loss, sarcopenia, and osteoporosis were associated with lower leptin levels.

Among the theoretical problems with the prevailing theory of cosmology, Lambda Cold Dark Matter (λCDM), the most serious appears to be the twofold problem with the cosmological constant lambda: Dark Energy and Hubble Tension. Despite a two-decade search for systematic errors in astrometry the problems have not been resolved. This paper posits a potential source of error that may have affected astrometry related to the current and past measurements of lambda.

Differential beamforming has attracted much research since it can utilize the array with small aperture size to form frequency-invariant beampatterns and achieve high directional gains. It has recently been applied to the linear loudspeaker array to produce a broadside frequency-invariant radiation pattern. However, designing steerable frequency-invariant beampatterns for the linear loudspeaker array has yet to be explored. This paper proposes a method to design the steerable differential beamformer with the linear loudspeaker array. We first determine the target differential beampatterns according to the desired direction, the main lobe width, and the beampattern order. Then, we transform the target beampattern into the modal domain for representation. The Jacobi-Anger expansion is subsequently used to design the beamformer so that the resulting beam pattern matches the target differential beam pattern. Furthermore, based on the criterion of minimizing the mean square error between the synthesized beam pattern and the ideal one, a multi-constraint optimization problem is formulated to calculate the optimal desired weighting vector. Simulations and experimental results show that the proposed method can achieve steerable frequency-invariant beamforming over 300 Hz – 4 kHz.

N-(diisopropylphosphanyl)benzamide, PhC(O)NHPiPr2, has been synthesized in good yield following two alternative procedures that employ benzamide as the starting material. The first one is a two-step preparation, in which N-(trimetilsilyl)benzamide is reacted with PiPr2Cl, to give the title compound in good yield, whereas the second one is a straightforward synthesis which converts benzamide into N-(diisopropylphosphanyl)benzamide by reaction with PiPr2Cl in the presence of N,N-dimethylpyridin-4-amine (DMAP) and triethylamine. NMR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses have been performed to characterize the new compound and elucidate its molecular structure in the solid state. N-(diisopropylphosphanyl)benzamide adds to the limited family of amido-substituted phosphines, RC(O)NHPR’2, which can be classified as bidentate hybrid P,O-ligands, both in their neutral and anionic forms, the latter achievable by deprotonation of the NH group.

We assess simultaneous adoption and impacts of multiple improved technologies promoted as a bundle and recommended for legumes intensification systems for smallholder farmers in Ethiopia. We use DNA fingerprinting data to precisely identify our key treatment - “adoption to improved bean varieties” in the study. The results show significant positive impacts of adopting bundled interventions on, agricultural incomes and household food security but vulnerability to food insecurity persists. We find that growing improved varieties with fertilizers increased household agricultural revenue, allowing for more legume consumption and enhancing their likelihood of achieving adequate food consumption and food security outcomes. However, the vulnerability to food insecurity of the adopters remains high due to pre-existing resource degradation issues. Given similarity in production contexts in Sub Saharan Africa, our results provide perspective for similar development interventions. We use the results of our analysis to discuss potential policy implications and programmes to support technology intensification among small holder farmers.

Background: Gait analysis systems are crucial for rehabilitation but are often time-consuming and less accessible in low and middle-income countries like Brazil. GAITWell^® was developed to address these challenges with its modular and portable design for automated gait data extraction and analysis. This study evaluates its methodological properties. Methods: GAITWell^® uses discrete binary sensors on interconnected plates to collect gait data, analyzed via the DBSCAN algorithm. Each plate measures 44 cm x 37 cm and features an 11 x 7 discrete sensor array with 4 cm spacing. Test-retest reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of the mean (SEM), and Bland-Altman plots. Concurrent validity was evaluated by comparing the GAITWell^® measurements with those obtained from the Qualisys Pro-Reflex through correlations. Results: Participated 38 healthy young adults, including 18 females (47.4%). The sample had an average age of 33.2 years (SD 13.0) and an average BMI of 26.6 kg/m² (SD 5.4). Correlations between GAITWell^® and Qualisys ranged from moderate to very high for most gait variables, except stride length (r = .360, p < .05). ICC_2,1 showed moderate to good agreement for most variables, except for double support times, cadence, and base of support. Preliminary analysis suggests that increasing the sensor resolution to 1.2 cm x 1.2 cm could potentially decrease the measurement error from 2 cm to 0.6 cm, representing a theoretical reduction of 70%. Conclusions: While low resolution affected GAITWell^® reliability, it remains a promising tool. Future research should focus on enhancing sensor accuracy to improve reliability.

Accumulated data indicate that epigenetic regulations, including histone modifications and DNA methylation, are important means for adjusting genes’ expression in response to various stimuli. In contrast to the success in studying the role of DNA methylation in laboratory rodents, the role of DNA methylation in terrestrial snail Helix lucorum has been studied only in behavioral experiments. This prompted us to further investigate the role of DNA methylation and the interaction between DNA methylation and histone acetylation in the mechanisms of neuroplasticity in terrestrial snails using in vitro experiments. Dysregulation of DNA methylation by DNMT inhibitor RG108 suppressed significantly the long-term potentiation (LTP) of synaptic inputs in identified neurons. We then tested whether the RG108-induced weakening of potentiation will be rescued under co-application of histone deacetylase inhibitors sodium butyrate or trichostatin A. RG108-induced LTP deficiency was significantly compensated by increased histone acetylation. These data bring important insight to the functional role of DNA methylation as an important regulatory mechanism and a necessary condition for the development and maintenance of long-term synaptic changes in withdrawal interneurons of terrestrial snails. Moreover, these results support the idea of the interaction of DNA methylation and histone acetylation in the epigenetic regulation of synaptic plasticity.

The gut, often referred to as the "second brain," has significant contributions in the maintaining of the good bacteria contribute enormous role such as digestion, produce essential vitamins, support the immune system, and protect against harmful bacteria. The beneficial flora including Akkermansia muciniphila, Adlercreutzia equolifasciens, Barnesiella, Christensenella minuta, and Oxalobacter formigenes, along with their derived bioactive metabolites emerged as a key player in maintaining host metabolic and immune health. Dietary choices such as blending of prebiotic, fermented, symbiotic, anti-inflammatory foods, and secondary metabolites from a wide variety of plants and fruits promotes the diversity, composition, and stability of beneficial intestinal microbes. The colourful plant foods rich in phytochemicals bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, anthocyanins, and capsaicin offer a wide array of unique properties such as analgesics, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobials effect and promoting the abundance of beneficial gut bacteria and their bioactive metabolites confer numerous health-promoting effects. Here, we present knowledge about most beneficial gut bacteria and their derived metabolites in terms of their sources and health benefits. Finally, we discuss best foods that skew towards promoting healthy intestinal microbes.

This article presents a method for detecting P, QRS, T, and U waves in electrocardiogram (ECG) signals through advanced signal processing techniques, including a Butterworth bandpass filter and peak finding algo- rithms. The results are evaluated against the voltage ranges recommended in the literature, underscoring the importance of accurate wave detection for the diagnosis of various cardiac conditions.

Additive Manufacturing (AM) methods are increasingly beign abopted in the industry as an alternative for mass production. In particular, Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology is leading the way in this field. However, the adhesion of layers in products produced using FDM technology is an important issue. These products are particularly vulnerable to forces acting parallel to the layers and specially to impact strength. This study aims to optimize the impact strength against loads acting parallel to the layers (ZX orientation) of PA6, one of the most widely used materials in the industry. This orientation is critical in term of mechanical properties, and the mechanical characteristics are significantly lower compared to other orientation. In this study, filaments containing pure PA6 with 15% short carbon fiber and 30% glass fiber were utilized. Additionally, printing temperature, layer thickness and heat treatment duration were used as independent variables. An L9 orthogonal array was employed in this study, and each experiment was repeated three times to conduct impact strength tests. Characterization, Taguchi optimization, a factor analyses were performed, followed by fracture surface characterization by SEM. As a result, the highest impact strength was achieved with pure PA6 at 8.9 kJ/m2, followed by PA6 GF30 at 8.1 kJ/m2 and the lowest impact strength was obtained with PA6 CF15 at 6.258 kJ/m2. When compared to the literature and manufacturer datasheets, it was concluded that the impact strength values have significantly increased, and the chosen experimental factors and their levels, particularly nozzle temperature, were effective.

For Sir Ronald Fisher, it is important to consistently obtain significant p-values to support an experimental hypothesis. So, replicating experiments to obtain independent p-values is a legitimate and desirable research practice. Several simple statistics have been proposed to meta-analyze p-values, all assuming that they are genuine, i.e. observations from independent standard Uniform random variables. But, as publication bias favors the studies that report "significant" p-values, when a p&gt;0.05 is obtained for the outcome of an experiment, some researchers will "fall into temptation" and decide to replicate the experiment in the hope of getting a smaller second p-value, ideally a significant one. Consequently, if the smallest of two p-values is reported, this is a Beta(1,2) distributed "fake" p-value, not a uniformly distributed genuine p-value. This is an unacceptable scientific research practice, and moreover the detection of fake p-values is unpractical. Even when it is possible, the analytic results to accommodate their existence in combined tests are cumbersome. For an informed decision, inclusive when the presence of fake p-values in a sample of p-values to be meta-analyzed is probable, tables with simulated critical values for the usual combined testing are supplied. This will also allow comparisons to be made between several combined tests.

The global malaria community has picked up the theme of malaria elimination in greater than 90 % of the world’s population in the next decade. The recent reports of P. vivax in all sub-Saharan Africa, including Duffy negative individuals, threaten the efforts to achieve elimination. This is not only in view of strategies that are tailored only to P. falciparum elimination, but also due to currently revealed biological characteristics of P. vivax concerning the relapse patterns of hypnozoites and conservation of a large biomass at cryptic sites in the bone marrow and spleen. A typical scenario has been observed in Botswana from the period between 2008 to 2018, which palpably projects how P. vivax could endanger efforts at malaria elimination where the two parasites co-exist. The need for the global malaria community, NMPs, funding agencies and relevant stakeholders to engage in a forum to discuss and recommend clear pathways for sub-Saharan Africa regarding malaria elimination including P. vivax, is warranted.

Academic and corporate research has been focusing on analyzing stock performances, financial markets, and investment strategies for decades. According to Lynch and Rothchild (1989), certain investments can be described as plays. In this work, the authors use the term for investments in value stocks, spin-offs, and turnarounds to analyze the long-term stock performance and risk-adjusted excess returns of up to five years for those stocks. Additionally, stocks with a supe-rior return performance are identified within an investment play based on low P/E and P/B mul-tiples. The study finds that value stocks, spin-offs, and turnarounds outperform the S&P 500 on average on a one-, three- and five-year investment horizon. The analysis of the three investment plays confirms earlier studies that investment plays constitute a profitable investment opportunity. Moreover, the research exemplifies that private investors could achieve an excess return (alpha) through a passive buy-and-hold investment strategy. Overall, the analysis provides a deeper in-sight into the long-term performance of value stocks, spin-offs, and turnarounds.

This study presents the experimental and analytical evaluations on an innovative connection class under cyclic loading. The connection was an H- or I-shaped section as a short stub column (SSC) between the end-plate and the column. The stub section was bolted to the column flange on the one side and bolted to the beam along with the welded end-plate on the other side. Stiffeners were installed on the webs and flanges of the beam and stub to ensure the necessary stiffness of the connection. The variables included thickness of stub flange/web and height of stub web. The cyclic loading was applied on a sample of the proposed connection according to AISC ANSI/AISC 341-16 loading protocol. Experimental observations displayed that the proposed connection, one can either employ hot rolling sections or create the connection as a plate girder, in which case the flange thickness and stub web, as well as the distance between two flanges and their height, was obtained according to the demand and performance of the structure. The optimum cross-section of the stub was then obtained. Also, the analytical model was calibrated using the finite element method (FEM), and its performance was confirmed. The effective parameters of the proposed connection were determined by modeling in the FEM software, and the design method was presented.

Introduction: Chronic ulcers significantly burden healthcare systems, requiring precise measurement and assessment for effective treatment. Traditional methods, such as manual segmentation, are time-consuming and error-prone. This review evaluates the potential of artificial intelligence (AI)--powered mobile apps for automated ulcer segmentation and their application in clinical settings. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane and Google Scholas databases. The review focused on mobile apps that use fully automatic AI algorithms for wound segmentation. Apps requiring additional hardware or needing more technical documentation were excluded. Vital technological features, clinical validation, and usability were analysed. Results: Ten mobile apps were identified, showing varying levels of segmentation accuracy and clinical validation. However, many apps did not publish sufficient information on the segmentation methods or algorithms used, and most lacked details on the databases employed for training their AI models. Additionally, several apps were unavailable in public repositories, limiting their accessibility and independent evaluation. These factors challenge their integration into clinical practice despite promising preliminary results. Discussion: AI-powered mobile apps offer significant potential for improving wound care by enhancing diagnostic accuracy and reducing the burden on healthcare professionals. Nonetheless, the lack of transparency regarding segmentation techniques, unpublished databases, and limited availability of many apps in public repositories remain substantial barriers to widespread clinical adoption. Conclusion: AI-driven mobile apps for ulcer segmentation could revolutionise chronic wound management. However, overcoming limitations related to transparency, data availability, and accessibility is essential for their successful integration into healthcare systems.

Migraine and stroke are neurological disorders with significant global prevalence and impact. Recent advances in migraine therapy have focused on calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) pathway. This review examines the shared pathomechanisms between migraine and stroke, with emphasis on the role of CGRP. We analyze current literature on CGRP's functions in cerebrovascular regulation, edema formation, neuroinflammation, and neuroprotection. CGRP acts as a potent vasodilator and plays a crucial role in trigeminovascular activation during migraine attacks. In stroke, CGRP has demonstrated neuroprotective effects by improving collateral circulation and reducing ischemia-reperfusion injury. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact of CGRP inhibsitors on stroke risk and outcomes. Studies in animals suggest that CGRP receptor antagonists may worsen cerebral ischemia by impairing collateral flow. We discuss the implications of these findings for the use of CGRP-targeting therapies in migraine patients, especially those at increased risk of stroke. Additionally, we explore the complex interplay between CGRP, endothelial function, and platelet activity in both conditions. This review highlights the need for further research to elucidate the long-term cerebrovascular safety of CGRP pathway inhibitors and to identify potential subgroups of migraine patients who may be at higher risk of adverse cerebrovascular events with these novel therapies.

Phosphorus (P) is an essential element in food production, but it is often largely unavailable for plants as it persists in soils in immobilized forms. Farmers have been using P fertilizers extensively to overcome this unavailability, leading to the exhaustion of non-renewable deposits of phosphorite, rising fertilizers prices and causing several environmental impacts such as eutrophication. Its large-scale utilization is also inefficient since most of the added P becomes quickly unavailable for the plants. Therefore, farming solutions that improve P uptake, P use efficiency of plants and P mobilization in soils are highly important. In this narrative review, we summarized and explored the link between the Silicon (Si) and P cycles in soils. Silicon is quasi-essential for plants, and it has been established that its presence in soil and uptake by plants has several benefits, especially in toxic and nutrient-deficient conditions. Here, we established that Si in soils can affect crop production in P-deficient conditions through: 1) the pH effect – Si improves organic matter decomposition and decreases Al3+ availability; the Si uptake effect – the deposited Si in the plant improves its photosynthetic performance, improves the root ability to uptake P, improves organic matter decomposition and increases P/Mn ration in plant, improving P use; and 3) the Si soil effect – Si stimulates phosphorite rocks weathering and competes with P for the binding places at the surface of Ak and Fe hydroxides, releasing P into soil solution. This positive effect of Si on P mobilization in soils and consequent use by crops should be further disseminated to farmers and other relevant stakeholders.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) diagnosis can be a challenge due to the large spectrum of pathogenic variants in the CFTR gene and the effects of complex alleles. Next-generation sequencing has improved our understanding of the contribution of these complex alleles to the wide spectrum of CF clinical symptoms and to the response to medications. Herein, we studied nine CF patients from six unrelated families carrying the complex allele p.[Ile148Thr;Ile1023_Val1024del] with a frequency of 0.18%. All the patients were from Central Mexico. This complex allele was found in trans with Class I and II pathogenic variants (PVs) such as [c.1521_1523del, p.(Phe508del), and c.3231_3232del, p.(Phe1078Profs*77)]. A targeted search of a dataset of 2,217 exomes from healthy individuals revealed that eight individuals (0.18%) carried the p.(Ile148Thr) variant, but only one (0.022%), who was also born in Central Mexico, was a carrier of the complex allele. These findings led us to hypothesize a founder effect for the p.[Ile148Thr;Ile1023_Val1024del] complex allele in Mexican patients with CF, probably through migration from the French-Canadian population in Mexico. Finally, protein modeling revealed that this complex allele disrupts the secondary structure of the CFTR protein and might alter the ion flow.

In this paper, various Ni-P composite coatings containing toner, MoS2, and nano-SiO2 particles were deposited on steel substrates by the electroless method. Then, the electrochemical properties of these coatings after a heat treatment process were compared. The microstructural evaluations were also done by using the optical and electron microscopy methods. Both Tafel polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques were utilized to survey the electrochemical behavior of such coatings. The surface morphology of all coatings contained cauliflower-like nodules. The X-ray diffraction patterns showed the crystalline phases of Ni and Ni3P for all coatings after the heat-treatment step. Obtained results showed that all composite coatings exhibited lower corrosion rates with respect to Ni-P coatings. Such a reduction was about 21.6-92.2%. This behavior was attributed to the presence of reinforcement as barriers for corrosive ion diffusion through the coating plus the changes in detected phases and thickness. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy test results also demonstrated that the increase in the polarization resistance for composites coatings was about 18.4-85.3% after 1 h immersion in a 0.6M NaCl solution; however, when the immersion time increased to 24 h, such increased resistance changed to 18.1 to 73.1%. Totally, despite the lower deposition rate, the presence of MoS2 and nano-SiO2 particles were more effective than toner particles to raise the corrosion rate of the Ni-P coating.

In this paper, we investigate p-adic q-integral (q-Volkenborn integral) on Z_p of p-adic gamma function via their Mahler expansions. We also derived two q-Volkenborn integrals of p-adic gamma function in terms of q-Daehee polynomials and numbers and q-Daehee polynomials and numbers of the second kind. Moreover, we discover q-Volkenborn integral of the derivative of p-adic gamma function. We acquire the relationship between the p-adic gamma function and Stirling numbers of the first kind. We finally develop a novel and interesting representation for the p-adic Euler constant by means of the q-Daehee polynomials and numbers.

It is known that the class of p-normed spaces (0 < p ≤ 1) is an important generalization of usual normed spaces with rich topological and geometrical structure, but the most of tools and general principles in nature with nonlinearity have not been developed yet, thus the main goal of this paper is to develop tools for nonlinear analysis under the framework of p-vector spaces. In particular, we first develop the general fixed point theorems which provide solutions to answer Schauder conjecture since 1930’s in the affirmative for p-vector spaces when p = 1 (which is just general topological vector spaces); then the one best approximation result for upper semi-continuous mappings is given, which is used as a powerful tool to establish fixed points for non-self set-valued mappings with either inward or outward set conditions; and finally we establish comprehensive existence results of solutions for Birkhoff-Kellogg Problems, and the general principle of nonlinear alternative by including Leray-Schauder alternative and related results. The results given in this paper not only include the corresponding results in the existing literature as special cases, but also expected to be useful tools for the study of nonlinear problems arising from theory to practice.

The main aim of this paper is to set some correlations between Boole polynomials and p-adic gamma function in conjunction with p-adic Euler contant. We develop diverse formulas for p-adic gamma function by means of their Mahler expansion and fermionic p-adic integral on ℤ_{p}. Also, we acquire two fermionic p-adic integrals of p-adic gamma function in terms of Boole numbers and polynomials. We then provide fermionic p-adic integral of the derivative of p-adic gamma function and a representation for the p-adic Euler constant by means of the Boole polynomials. Furthermore, we investigate an explicit representation for the aforesaid constant covering Stirling numbers of the first kind.

Objective: To explore the acceptability and feasibility of conducting comprehensive, community-based, hy-brid (in-person and virtual) mental health screening and feedback with diverse youth in the community. Methods: The Screening and Support for Youth intervention provides comprehensive assessment and thera-peutic feedback in community settings including symptoms, diagnoses, functional impairment, suicide, and clinical risk. Symptom severity, seven diagnoses and suicidality were assessed with the Kiddie Computer-ized Adaptive Test. Functional impairment was evaluated by youth self-report on the Weiss Functional Im-pairment Rating Scale. Measures were scored according to nationally developed norms and an algorithm was developed to aggregate symptoms and functioning to determine clinical risk. The results were discussed with participants in a motivational interview to promote insight and engagement in an online intervention. Results: Methodological innovations included using a QR code for recruitment, integrated in-person and virtual participation, and expansion from in-person recruitment within the schools to virtual engagement with youth throughout the community. The final sample included disproportionately more Black or African American and Hispanic youth as compared to school and community statistics, suggesting that hybrid re-search may facilitate recruitment of diverse populations. Qualitative interviews indicated that the screening and feedback raised youth awareness of their wellbeing and/or distress, its impact on their functioning, and engagement with options for improving wellbeing. Conclusion: Hybrid research, developed as a necessity during the pandemic, proved advantageous to the feasibility and acceptability of community-based recruit-ment of at risk, minoritized youth.

In order to deal with imprecision, ambiguity, and uncertainty in data analysis, Pawlak introduced rough set theory in 1982. This paper aims to expand the scope of basic set theory developed by presenting the notions of δP-upper and δP-lower approximations, that are based on the notion of δP-open sets, we additionally examine a few of their fundamental characteristics.

This work reports the role of structure and composition on the determination of the performances of p-type SnOx TFTs deposited by rf magnetron sputtering at room temperature, followed by a post-annealed step up to 200 °C at different oxygen partial pressures (Opp), between 0% and 20%, but where the p-type conduction was only observed between 2.8–3.8%. The role of structure and composition were evaluated by XRD and Mössbauer spectroscopic studies. The study allows to identify the best phases/compositions and thicknesses (around 12 nm) to be used that lead to the production of TFTs with a bottom gate configuration, on glasses coated with conductive Indium Tin Oxide, followed by Aluminium Titanium Oxide dielectric layer with saturation mobility of 4.6 cm²V⁻¹s⁻¹ and on-off ratio above 7 × 10⁴, operating at the enhancement mode with a saturation voltage of −10 V.

In this paper, we investigate several relations for p-adic gamma function by means of their Mahler expansion and fermionic p-adic q-integral on ℤ_{p}. We also derive two fermionic p-adic q-integrals of p-adic gamma function in terms of q-Boole polynomials and numbers. Moreover, we discover fermionic p-adic q-integral of the derivative of p-adic gamma function. We acquire a representation for the p-adic Euler constant by means of the q-Boole polynomials. We finally develop a novel, explicit and interesting representation for the p-adic Euler constant including Stirling numbers of the first kind.

In this paper, we investigate p-adic q-integral (q-Volkenborn integral) on ℤ_{p} of p-adic gamma function via their Mahler expansions. We also derived two q-Volkenborn integrals of p-adic gamma function in terms of q-Daehee polynomials and numbers and q-Daehee polynomials and numbers of the second kind. Moreover, we discover q-Volkenborn integral of the derivative of p-adic gamma function. We acquire the relationship between the p-adic gamma function and Stirling numbers of the first kind. We finally develop a novel and interesting representation for the p-adic Euler constant by means of the q-Daehee polynomials and numbers.

It is increasingly common for experiments in biology and medicine to involve large numbers of hypothesis tests. A natural graphical method for visualizing these tests is to construct a histogram from the p-values of these tests. In this article, we examine the shapes, both normal and abnormal, that these histograms can take on, as well as present simple inferential procedures that help to interpret the shapes in terms of diagnosing potential problems with the experiment. We examine potential causes of these problems in detail, and discuss potential remedies. Throughout, examples of abnormal-looking p-value histograms are provided and based on case studies involving real biological experiments.

Recent studies with ApoE knockout (ApoE-/-) mice deficient for PACAP (pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide) or its receptor PAC1 provide evidence for a possible involve-ment of immune- and vasoregulatoy PACAP signaling at the PAC1 receptor in atherogenesis and plaque associated vascular inflammation. Therefore, we tested the PAC1 receptor agonist Maxadilan and the PAC1 selective antagonist M65 on plaque development and lumen stenosis in the ApoE-/- atherosclerosis model for possible anti-atherogenic effects. Adult male ApoE-/- mice were fed a cholesterol-enriched diet (CED) or standard chow (SC) treat-ed with Maxadilan, M65 or Sham. Effects of treatment on atherosclerotic plaques, lumen stenosis, apoptosis and pro-inflammatory signatures were analyzed in the brachiocephalic trunk (BT). The percentage of Maxadilan treated mice exhibiting plaques under SC and CED was lower than that of Sham or M65 treatment indicating opposite effects of Maxadilan and M65. Maxadilan ap-plication inhibited lumen stenosis under SC and CED compared to Sham. In spite of significantly increased cholesterol levels, lumen stenosis of Maxadilan-treated mice was similar under CED and SC. In contrast, M65 under SC or CED did not reveal a significant influence on lumen steno-sis. Maxadilan significantly reduced the TNF-α+ area in the plaques under CED, but not under SC. In contrast, the IL-1β+ area was reduced after Maxadilan treatment under SC, but remained unchanged under CED compared to Sham. Maxadilan reduced the caspase-3+ area in the media under both SC and CED without affecting lipid content in plaques. Despite persisting hypercholesterolemia, Maxadilan reduces lumen stenosis, apoptosis and TNF-α driven inflammation. Our data suggest that Maxadilan provides atheroprotection by act-ing downstream of cholesterol-induced vascular inflammation. This implicates the potential of PAC1-specific agonist drugs against atherosclerosis even beyond statins and PCSK-9.

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTI) are a significant health concern, particularly in women, with almost half of them experiencing at least one UTI in their lifetime. This problem is further compounded by the high recurrence rate within 6-12 months. Postmenopausal women are especially vulnerable to recurrent UTI due to the natural decline in estrogen levels, which alters the urogenital epithelium and subsequently affects the urogenital microbiome. Methods: This study included 674 female patients that were admited at "Dr. Carol Davila" Central Military Emergency University Hospital in Bucharest over a period of 3 years. Results: Of the 674 women with urinary tract infection, 435 (79.3%) had more than one positive culture, and 239 (35.4%) experienced at least one recurrent urinary tract infection 6-12 months after the initial diagnosis. The mean age of women with urinary tract infection was 63 (± 15.61 years). Recurrent urinary tract infections were most prevalent in those aged 65-80 years (52%). Escherichia coli was detected in 71% of the positive cultures. Conclusions: The management of recurrent urinary tract infections in women presents a complex challenge that necessitates a multifaceted approach. The emerging understanding of the urobiome and its role in bladder health offers promising avenues for developing targeted interventions. As research in this field advances, it is imperative to integrate these new insights into clinical practice to balance traditional antibiotic treatments with novel strategies that consider the intricate microbial ecosystem of the urinary tract.

Insurance companies need to calculate solvency capital requirements in order to ensure that they can meet their future obligations to policyholders and beneficiaries. The solvency capital requirement is a risk management tool essential for, when extreme catastrophic events occur, resulting in a high number of possibly interdependent claims. This paper studies the problem of aggregating the risks coming from several insurance business lines and analyses the effect of reinsurance in the level of risk. Our starting point is to use a Hierarchical Risk Aggregation method, which was initially based on 2-dimensional elliptical copulas. We then propose the use of copulas from the Archimedean family and a mixture of different copulas. Our results show that a mixture of copulas can provide a better fit to the data than an individual copula and consequently avoid over or underestimating of the capital requirement of an insurance company. We also investigate the significance of reinsurance in reducing the insurance company’s business risk and its effect on diversification. The results show that reinsurance does not always reduce the level of risk, but can also reduce the effect of diversification for insurance companies with multiple business lines.

The primary goal of Theory of Everything (ToE) is to unify General Relativity and Quantum Mechanics, establishing a theoretical framework that explains all natural phenomena and fundamental laws of the universe. The rapid development of artificial intelligence in the 21st century presents new opportunities for the establishment of TOE. Research has revealed that the observer and the agent, as key concepts in physics and intelligence science respectively, share intrinsic consistency. Using this as a breakthrough point, we first proposed Standard Agent Model, which, from the perspective of information processing, establishes a unified structure for agents. This model posits that any agent possesses five essential capabilities: input, output, storage, creation, and control of these four capabilities.By setting the values of these five essential capabilities in Standard Agent Model to either zero or infinity, we identify two extreme states of agents: Absolute Zero Agent (α Point) and Omniscient and Omnipotent Agent (Ω Point). Based on the evolution of agents towards these two extreme states, we derive two driving forces for agent evolution: α Gravity and Ω Gravity. These elements collectively form General Model of Agent Evolution.Building on the first two models, we further derive Intelligent Universe Evolution Model, proposing that Universe, as an agent, evolves dynamically between α Point and Ω Point under the influence of α Field and Ω Field. These three models together constitute "Theory of Universal Intelligent Evolution," abbreviated as Ω Theory. According to Ω Theory, we demonstrate that the observer in physics and a wide range of research objects can be unified within the framework of Standard Agent Model. Additionally, we argue that the four fundamental forces have the potential to be unified into α Gravity and Ω Gravity.Within the framework of Ω Theory, through theoretical analysis and experimental validation, it has been demonstrated that the differences between classical mechanics, relativity, and quantum mechanics stem from the varying intelligence levels assigned to observers. Furthermore, it has been discovered that the differences in intelligent characteristics between the theoretical Universe proposed by these three major physical theories and Universe in which humanity currently resides are the root cause of the varying precision and limitations of these theories.

As the global economy pays increasing attention to sustainable development and environmental protection, the role of green finance in promoting regional technological innovation is becoming more and more prominent. This study aims to analyse the impact of green finance on regional technological innovation and its mechanism of action, with special attention to the mediating effect of R&D inputs and the moderating role of regional characteristics. By analysing the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2008 to 2021 with fixed and mediated effect models, the results show that green finance significantly promotes regional technological innovation. R&D investment intensity partially mediates this effect, while regional innovation and entrepreneurship capacity plays a significant moderating role in this relationship. Specifically, regional innovation and entrepreneurship capacity reinforces the positive impact of green finance on R&D investment, but the marginal effect of R&D investment is reduced in regions with stronger innovation and entrepreneurship capacity. The findings provide a theoretical basis for formulating relevant policies to promote green finance development and sustainable innovation in regional economies.

Here, we describe the bicomplex (p,q)- Fibonacci numbers and the bicomplex (p,q)- Fibonacci quaternions that are based on these numbers and give some of their equations, including the Binet formula, generating function, Catalan, Cassini, d’Ocagne’s identities, and some summation formulas for both of them. Finally, we create a matrix for bicomplex (p,q)- Fibonacci quaternions, and we obtain a determinant of a special matrix that gives the terms of that quaternion.

In this paper, some convexity properties and some inequalities for the (p,k)-analogue of the Gamma function, Г_p,k(x) are given. In particular, a (p,k)-analogue of the celebrated Bohr-Mollerup theorem is given. Furthermore, a (p,k)-analogue of the Riemann zeta function, ζ_p,k(x) is introduced and some associated inequalities are derived. The established results provide the (p,k)-generalizations of some known results concerning the classical Gamma function.

We introduce the notion of p-adic equiangular lines and derive the first fundamental relation between common angle, dimension of the space and the number of lines. More precisely, we show that if {τj} n j=1 is p-adic γ-equiangular lines in Qd p , then (1) |n| 2 ≤ |d| max{|n|, γ2 }. We call Inequality (1) as the p-adic van Lint-Seidel relative bound. We believe that this complements fundamental van Lint-Seidel [Indag. Math., 1966] relative bound for equiangular lines in the p-adic case. Keywords: Equiangular lines, p-adic Hilbert space.

This article presents a proposed system that enables energy transfer from the dc grid to a single-phase onboard grid, operating at an hi frequency. In addition to the energy transfer function, it additionally enables compensation of reactive power in the ac grid when the converter operates at less than rated power. To operate in compensator mode, it is necessary to decouple the current from the grid into active and reactive components and control them independently. To achieve good dynamics, synchronizers that operate in the dq system are used. In the case of a single-phase grid, it requires such a synchronizer to generate virtual quadrature signals. The used systems based on second-order generalized integrator are good, but to improve dynamics in the work a quadrature generator based on trigonometric calculations was proposed. The developed system was implemented in a proportional resonant current control system. Tests performed in steady state and in dynamic states related to typical grid disturbances showed better dynamic properties than the standard integrator-based system.Keywords: power transfer; compensator; P+R controller

Arc sensors have been used in seam tracking and widely studied since the 80s; commercial arc sensing products for T and V shaped grooves have been developed. However, it is difficult to use these arc sensors in narrow gap welding because arc stability and sensing accuracy are not satisfactory. Pulse gas melting arc welding (P-GMAW) has been successfully applied in narrow gap welding and all position welding processes, so it is worthwhile to research P-GMAW arc sensing technology. In this paper, we derived a linear mathematical P-GMAW model for arc sensing, and the assumptions for the model are verified through experiments and finite element methods. Finally, the linear characteristics of the mathematical model were investigated. In torch height changing experiments, uphill experiments, and groove angle changing experiments the P-GMAW arc signals all satisfied the linear rules. In addition, the faster the welding speed, the higher the arc signal sensitivities; the smaller the groove angle, the greater the arc sensitivities. The arc signal variation rate needs to be modified according to the welding power, groove angles, and swing or rotate speed.

Pardosa pseudoannulata is one of the most common wandering spiders in agricultural fields and a potentially good bioindicator for heavy metal contamination. However, little is known about the mechanism by which spiders respond to heavy metals at the molecular level. In this study, high-throughput transcriptome sequencing was employed to characterize the de novo transcriptome of the spiders and to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) after cadmium exposure. We obtained 60,489 assembled unigenes, 18,773 of which were annotated in the public databases. Ultimately, 3450 cDNA simple sequence repeats were identified and validated as potential molecular markers in the unigenes. A total of 2939, 2491 and 3759 DEGs were detected among the three libraries of two Cd-treated groups and the control. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that metabolism processes and digestive system function were predominately enriched in response to Cd stress. At the cellular and molecular levels, significantly enriched pathways in lysosomes and phagosomes as well as replication, recombination and repair demonstrated that oxidative damage resulted from Cd exposure. Based on the selected DEGs, certain critical genes involved in defence and detoxification were analysed. These results may elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying spiders' responses to heavy metal stress.

Polo-Like Kinase-1 (PLK1) is a key regulator of the G2/M cell cycle and has been linked to treatment resistance in prostate cancer (PCa). This study aimed to explore the correlation between PLK1 expression, determined through RNA-seq analysis, and clinical outcomes in PCa patients. We analyzed tumor samples from 452 patients diagnosed with prostate adenocarcinoma between 2014 and 2020, sourced from nine institutions affiliated with the Oncology Research Information Exchange Network (ORIEN). PLK1 expression levels were determined using RNA-seq data and stratified into high (≥75th percentile) vs. low (<75th percentile) expression. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models compared overall survival between patients with low vs. high PLK1 expression, adjusting for age, race, PSA, and stage. Of the 452 tumors, 241 (53.3%) had high PLK1 and 211 (46.7%) had low PLK1 expression. Median follow-up was 2.74 years for low PLK1 and 2.71 years for high PLK1. No significant difference in overall survival was observed between low and high PLK1 groups in univariate (p=0.86; HR 1.09) or multivariate (p=1.0; HR 0.99) analyses. This study found no association between RNA-seq-based PLK1 expression and prognosis in PCa. PLK1 expression is not a prognostic marker for prostate cancer.

This article advances the discourse on sustainable and energy-efficient software by examining the performance and energy efficiency of intelligent algorithms within the framework of green and sustainable computing. Building on previous research, it explores the theoretical implications of Bremermann's Limit on efforts to enhance computer performance through more extensive methods. The study presents an empirical investigation into heuristic methods for search and optimisation, demonstrating the energy efficiency of various algorithms in both simple and complex tasks. It also identifies key factors influencing the energy consumption of algorithms and their potential impact on computational processes. Furthermore, the article discusses cognitive concepts and their interplay with computational intelligence, highlighting the role of cognition in the evolution of intelligent algorithms. The conclusion offers insights into the future directions of research in this area, emphasising the need for continued exploration of energy-efficient computing methodologies.

This study introduces a cascade nonlinear proportional integral retarded (CNPIR) controller for the first time in the literature, aiming to achieve real-time precise control of a double-tank liquid level system. It begins by outlining the characteristics of de-lay-based systems and detailing the dynamic behavior of the liquid-level system. The study evaluates the system's performance by developing and analyzing the mathe-matical models of both the feedforward proportional-integral (FF-PI) controller and the CNPIR controller. Two different control techniques were employed, with real-time tests conducted to assess the system's axis movement performance. The FF-PI controller was used as the initial control technique, while the CNPIR controller was introduced to enhance system performance during trajectory tracking. Experimental results demon-strated that the CNPIR method significantly improved trajectory tracking response, reduced overshoot, and achieved better steady-state error under external disturbances compared to the FF-PI controller. Thus, the experimental study, highlights the effec-tiveness of the proposed control design and its superiority over some existing classical methods.

There has been growing interest in using permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) for pumping applications to improve energy efficiency. One promising approach for powering these motors in variable speed applications is using modular multilevel cascaded converters based on a Triple-Star Bridge Cell (M3C) due to their inherent fault tolerance capability. However, M3C converters require a more complex control system than simpler converters. For instance, A basic M3C control system for power transmission requires seventeen (17) PI controllers, whose adjustment depends on the M3C’s dynamical model parameters’ value knowledge needing extensive and time-consuming testing to obtain them. To solve this control system issue, we propose an adaptive M3C control system for variable speed drives powering multiple PMSM-driven centrifugal pumps that reduces the number of controllers to six (6). Furthermore, the proposal does not require knowledge of the converter, motor, or load parameters, making it more practical and versatile. The proposal introduces an ad-hoc hybrid passivity-based model reference adaptive controller in cascade with a passivity-based control. It has been validated through theoretical stability proof and comparative simulation results with a basic control system under normal and fault operations. As a result, the proposal effectively follows the required rotor speed while enhancing performance by decreasing the current consumption and recovering from a 10% input phase imbalance, a cell short circuit, and an open cell.

Living systems are capable on the one hand, of eliciting a coordinated response to changing environment (aka adaptation) and on the other hand, they are capable of reproducing themselves. Notably, adaptation to environmental change requires the monitoring of the surroundings, while reproduction requires monitoring oneself. These two tasks appear separate and making use of different sources of information. Yet both the process of adaptation as well as that of reproduction are inextricably coupled to alterations of genomic DNA expression, while a cell behaves as an indivisible unity in which apparently independent processes and mechanisms are both integrated and coordinated. We argue that at the most basic level, this integration is enabled by the unique property of the DNA to act as a double coding device harboring two logically distinct types of information. We review biological systems of different complexity and infer that inter-conversion of these two distinct types of DNA information represents a fundamental self-referential device underlying both systemic integration and coordinated adaptive response.

In an outstanding article published in 2008, Suzuki obtained a nice generalization of the Banach contraction principle from which derived a characterization of metric completeness. Although Suzuki’s theorem has been successfully generalized and extended in several directions and contexts, we here show by means of a simple example that the problem of achieving, in an obvious way, its full extension to the framework of w-distances does not have an emphatic response. Motivated by this fact we introduce the concept of presymmetric w-distance on metric spaces, we give some properties and examples of this new structure and show that it provides a reasonable setting to obtain a real and hardly forced w-distance generalization of Suzuki’s theorem. This is realized in our main result, which is a fixed point theorem that involves presymmetric w-distances and certain contractions of Suzuki-type. We also discuss the relationship between our main result and the well-known w-distance full generalization of the Banach contraction principle, due to Suzuki and Takahashi. Connected to this approach we prove another fixed point result that compare with our main result through some examples. Finally, we state a characterization of metric completeness by using our fixed point results.

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-furans (PCDD/Fs) are environmental pollutants with a great persistence, capacity of bioaccumulation, and well known important toxic effects in humans and animals. Incinerators of hazardous, municipal and medical waste, chlorine bleaching of paper pulp, cement plants, and the traffic of motor vehicles are the most frequent emission sources of these compounds. The diet, followed at a great distance by inhalation, is generally the main way of human exposure to PCDD/Fs. Human biomonitoring is of a great importance to prevent potential adverse effects derived from exposure to chemicals such as PCDD/Fs. In relation to this, blood is among the most used biological monitors. In the current review, we have summarized the recent information (2000-2009) published in the scientific literature (databases: Scopus and PubMed) on the concentrations of PCDD/Fs in blood samples of non-occupationally exposed populations, as well as in some groups of occupationally exposed individuals. We have revised a number of studies conducted in various African American, Asian and European countries, and Australia. Unfortunately, the information is quite limited. No data are available for most countries over the world. Based on the results here reviewed –where available- the current health risks for the general populations do not seem to be of concern. Moreover, taking into account the important reductions observed in the levels of PCDD/Fs in foodstuffs, new decreases in the concentrations of PCDD/Fs in blood -and other biological tissues- are very probable in the immediate years.

The following paper describes an economical, multiple model predictive control (EMMPC) for an air conditioning system of a confectionery manufacturer in Germany. The application consists of a packaging hall for chocolate bars, in which a new local conveyor belt air conditioning system is used and thus the temperature and humidity limits in the hall can be significantly extended. The EMMPC calculates the optimum energy or cost humidity and temperature set points in the hall. For this purpose, time-discrete state space models and an economic objective function with which it is possible to react to flexible electricity prices in a cost-optimised manner are created. A possible future electricity price model for Germany with a flexible EEG levy was used as a flexible electricity price. The flexibility potential is determined by variable temperature and humidity limits in the hall, which are oriented towards the comfort field for easily working persons, and the building mass. The building mass of the created room model is used as a thermal energy store. Considering electricity price and weather forecasts as well as internal, production plan-dependent load forecasts, the model predictive controller directly controls the heating and cooling register and the humidifier of the air conditioning system.

In this paper, we investigated the formation isolation regulation issue regarding multiple autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) characterized by a "leader-follower" framework. Considering the cooperative-competitive relationship among the follower AUVs and the impact of unknown external disturbances, an extended state observer was designed based on backstepping to mitigate these disturbances, and an event-triggered control scheme was designed to realize the two-part consensus control within the multi-AUV system. Through rigorous theoretical analysis, it is shown that the system achieves asymptotic steadiness and is free from zeno behavior under the proposed event-triggered control scheme. Finally, numerical simulations confirm the efficiency of the regulation strategy in achieving formation separation within the multi-AUV, where the trajectory tracking errors of individual AUVs gather in a compact vicinity close to the source and the structure converges was achieved, with the absence of zeno behavior also demonstrated.

The earthquake alert of the early warning systems is based on the delay that the S waves have in reference to the P waves and on the interpretation of the P waves’ specific parameters. One of the most used parameters for estimating the moment magnitude of an earthquake is the characteristic period measured in the first 3 seconds of the appearance of the P wave. The typical method determines the characteristic period in the time domain, based on the velocity wave and the displacement wave. In the present work, we present a method for estimating the frequency of the characteristic period. This method includes zero padding of the P wave sequence, conversion of the extended sequence from the time domain to the frequency domain, the identification of local frequency maxima and the calculation of the weighted average of the frequency based on the identified maxima. Tests conducted on synthetic signals, as well as standard deviation evaluation tests for simultaneous recordings on several stations, reveal better performance to the usual method.

Cell migration crucial contributor to metastasis, a critical process associated with the mortality of cancer patients. The initiation of metastasis is triggered by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), along with the changes of the expression of EMT marker proteins. Inflammation plays a significant role in carcinogenesis and metastasis. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a typical inflammatory agent, promoted the generation of superoxide through the activation of p-Tyr42 RhoA, Rho-dependent kinase 2 (ROCK2) and the phosphorylation of p47phox. In addition, p-Tyr42 RhoA activated phospholipase D1 (PLD1), with PLD1 and phosphatidic acid (PA) being involved in superoxide production. PA also regulated the expression of EMT maker proteins. Consequently, we have identified MHY9 (Miosin IIA, NMIIA) as a PA-binding protein in response to LPS. MYH9 also contributed cell migration and the alteration of the expression of EMT marker proteins. P-Tyr42 RhoA, PLD1 and MYH9 associated to form a complex, which was distributed in both the cytosol and nucleus. In addition, we have found that p-Tyr42 RhoA and PLD1 associated with the ZEB1 promoter. Taken together, we propose that p-Tyr42 RhoA and PLD1, responsible for producing PA, and PA-bound MYH9 are involved in the regulation of ZEB1 expression, thereby promoting cell migration.

Abstract: (1) Background: Surgery is the best curative option for Gastric Cancer (GC). However, morbimortality associated with surgery still a significant problem. Thus, it is essential to determine the preoperative surgical risk, to optimize outcomes in higher risk patients. (2) Methods: Patients who underwent curative gastrectomy between January 2010 and December 2013 were included, obtaining a sample of 131 patients, and the acuity of the scales understudy was evaluated. The predictive power of the scales was evaluated through calibration and discrimination. (3) Results and Conclusions: Regarding mortality, the scales demonstrated good calibration, with POSSUM and P-POSSUM obtaining the best O:E ratio. The scales presented good discrimination, with POSSUM showing the best result. Considering morbidity, the scales showed good calibration and discrimination. POSSUM and P-POSSUM seem to have potential in predicting morbidity and mortality when applied to the studied population, but there is a need for further studies in this area.

Emerging evidence has shown that microRNAs play pivotal roles in wound healing. MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) was previously found to upregulate in order to fulfill an anti-inflammation role for wounds. Exosomal miRNAs have been identified and explored as essential markers for diagnostic medicine. However, the role of exosomal miR-21 in wounds has yet to be well studied. In order to facilitate the early management of poorly healing wounds, we developed an easy-to-use, rapid, paper-based microfluidic-exosomal miR-21 extraction device to determine wound prognosis in a timely manner. We isolated and then quantitatively examined exosomal miR-21 in wound fluids from normal tissues, acute and chronic wounds. Eight improving wounds displayed lower levels of exosomal miR-21 expression after wound debridement. However, four instances of increased exosomal miR-21 expression levels were notably associated with patients with poor healing wounds despite aggressive wound debridement, indicating a predictive role of tissue exosomal miR-21 for wound outcome. Paper-based nucleic acid extraction device provides a rapid and user-friendly approach for evaluating exosomal miR-21 in wound fluids as a means of monitoring wounds. Our data suggest that tissue exosomal miR-21 is a reliable marker for determining current wound status.

If an algebra of type $A$ contains a subalgebra which is also an algebra of type $B$, then it is a Smarandache $B$-type $A$-algebra provided the subalgebra of type $B$ contains at least two elements. This generalizes the notion of Smarandache group, where the group of order $\geq 2$ is a subsemigroup of a semigroup. In this paper we investigate a number of such pairings and we deduce a number of conclusions as a consequence.

Interspecific competition between mosquito larvae may affects adult vectorial capacity, potentially reducing disease transmission. It also influences population dynamics, cannibalistic and predatory behaviors. However, knowledge of interspecific competition between Ae. aegypti and Anopheles species is limited. The study examined interspecific competition between Ae. aegypti larvae and either An. arabiensis, An. gambiae, or An. funestus on individual fitness in semi-field settings. The experiments involved density combinations of 100:100, 200:0, and 0:200 (Ae. aegypti: Anopheles), reared with and without food, in small habitat (8.5 cm height × 15 cm diameter) with 0.5 litre and medium habitats (15 cm height × 35 cm diameter) with 1 litre of water. The first group received Tetramin® fish food (0.02 g), while the second group was unfed to assess cannibalism and predation. While, interspecific competition affected both genera, Anopheles species experienced greater effect, with reduced survival and delayed development, compared to Ae. aegypti. The mean wing lengths of all species were significantly small in small habitats in mixed population (p &lt; 0.001). The presence of food reduced cannibalism and predation compared to its absence. These interactions have implications for diseases transmission dynamics and can serve as biological indicators to signal the impacts of vector control interventions.

In response to a perceived epidemic of coronary heart disease, Ancel Keys introduced the lipid-heart hypothesis in 1953 which asserted that high intakes of total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol lead to atherosclerosis and that consuming less fat and cholesterol, and replacing saturated fat with polyunsaturated fat, would reduce serum cholesterol and consequently the risk of heart disease. Keys proposed an equation that would predict the concentration of serum cholesterol (DChol.) from consumption of saturated fat (DS), polyunsaturated fat (DP), and cholesterol (DZ): ΔChol. = 1.2(2ΔS − ΔP) + 1.5ΔZ. However, the Keys equation conflated natural saturated fat and industrial trans-fat into a single parameter and considered only linoleic acid as the polyunsaturated fat. This ignored the widespread consumption of trans-fat and its effects on serum cholesterol and promoted an imbalance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the diet. Numerous observational, epidemiological, interventional, and autopsy studies have failed to validate the Keys equation and the lipid-heart hypothesis. Nevertheless, these have been the cornerstone of national and international dietary guidelines which have focused disproportionately on heart disease and much less so on cancer and metabolic disorders, which have steadily increased since the adoption of this hypothesis.

In this paper, we define and investigate modified p-Leonardo, p-Leonardo-Lucas and p-Leonardo sequences as special cases of the generalized Leonardo sequence. We present Binet's formulas, generating functions, Simson formulas, and the summation formulas for these sequences. Moreover, we give some identities and matrices related with these sequences. Furthermore, we show that there are close relations between modified p-Leonardo, p-Leonardo-Lucas, p-Leonardo numbers and Fibonacci, Lucas numbers.

A robust guaranteed cost preview repetitive controller is proposed for a class of polytopic uncertain discrete-time systems. In order to improve the tracking performance, the repetitive controller combined with preview compensator is inserted in the forward channel. By using the L-order forward difference operator, an augmented dynamic system is constructed. Then, the guaranteed cost preview repetitive control problem is transformed into the guaranteed cost control problem for the augmented dynamic system. For given performance index, the sufficient condition of asymptotic stability for the closed-loop system is derived by combining parameter-dependent Lyapunov function method with linear matrix inequality (LMI) techniques. By incorporating the controller obtained into the original system, the guaranteed-cost preview repetitive controller is derived. A numerical example is also included to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.

For evaluating probabilities of arbitrary random events with respect to a given multivariate probability distribution, specific techniques are of great interest. An important two-dimensional high risk limit law is the Gauss-exponential distribution whose probabilities can be dealt with based upon the Gauss-Laplace law. The latter will be considered here as an element of the newly introduced family of (p,q)-spherical distributions. Based upon a suitably defined non-Euclidean arc-length measure on (p,q)-circles we prove geometric and stochastic representations of these distributions and correspondingly distributed random vectors, respectively. These representations allow dealing with the new probability measures similarly like with elliptically contoured distributions and more general homogeneous star-shaped ones. This is demonstrated at hand of a generalization of the Box-Muller simulation method. En passant, we prove an extension of the sector and circle number functions.