The beating heart is subject to intrinsic mechanical factors, exerted by contraction of the myocardium (stretch and strain) and fluid forces of the enclosed blood (wall shear stress). The earliest contractions of the heart occur already in the 10-somite stage in the tubular as yet unsegmented heart. With development the looping heart becomes asymmetric providing varying diameters and curvatures resulting in unequal flow profiles. These flow profiles exert various wall shear stresses and as a consequence different expression patterns of shear responsive genes. In this paper we investigate the morphological changes of the heart after changes the blood flow by ligation of the right vitelline vein in a model chicken embryo and analyze the extended expression in the endocardial cushions of the shear responsive gene Tgfbeta receptor III. A major phenomenon is the diminished endocardial-mesenchymal transition resulting in hypoplastic (even absence of) atrioventricular and outflow tract endocardial cushions, that might be lethal in early phases. The surviving embryos exhibit several cardiac malformations including ventricular septal defects and malformed semilunar valves related to a malposition of the aortopulmonary septum and the enclosed neural crest cells. We discuss the results in the light of the interactions between several shear stress responsive signaling pathways including Vegf, Notch, Pdgf, Klf2, eNos, Endothelin and Tgfβ/Bmp/Smad.

The outflow tract of crocodilians resembles that of birds and mammals as ventricular septation is complete. The arterial anatomy however, presents with a pulmonary trunk originating from the right ventricular cavum, and two aortae originating from either the right or left ventricular cavum. Mixing of blood in crocodilians cannot occur at ventricular level as in other reptiles, but instead takes place at aortic root level by a shunt, the Foramen of Panizza, the opening of which is guarded by two facing semilunar leaflets of both bicuspid aortic valves. Methods. Developmental stages of Alligator mississipiensis, Crocodilus niloticus and Caiman latirostris, have been studied. Results and Conclusions. The outflow tract septation complex can be divided into 2 components. The aorto-pulmonary septum divides the pulmonary trunk from both aortae, whereas the interaortic septum divides the systemic from the visceral aorta. Neural crest cells are most likely involved in the formation of both components. Remodeling of the endocardial cushions and both septa results in the formation of bicuspid valves in all three arterial trunks. The foramen of Panizza originates intracardially as a channel in the septal endocardial cushion.

The aim of the present study was to measure the apparent absorption of magnesium (Mg) originating from Mg-butyrate. Six mid-lactation Holstein Friesian dairy cows were used with dietary treatments arranged in a cross-over design. Two different diets were fed during the experiment, consisting of a low Mg diet without Mg-butyrate (L-Mg, 3.1g Mg/kg dry matter) or a high Mg diet with Mg-butyrate (H-Mg, 3.9 g Mg/kg dry matter). Cows offered the L-Mg diet ingested 54.7 g Mg/day while the cows fed the H-Mg diets ingested 66.3 g Mg/day (P < 0.001). The fecal excretion of Mg, however, was similar between the two experimental diets (P = 0.174). Consequently, apparent Mg absorption was found to be 7.9 percentage units greater (P = 0.038) when the cows were fed the diet supplemented with Mg-butyrate. The greater Mg absorption after feeding the H-Mg diet was, however, not reflected by a greater urinary Mg concentration (P = 0.228). These results indicate that the availability of Mg from the Mg-butyrate supplemented diet is high (34.1% of intake). The fractional Mg absorption from Mg-butyrate was calculated to be 71.6%. In conclusion, Mg-butyrate is an attractive alternative to supplement dairy rations with Mg.

When swine flu vaccines and circulating influenza A virus (IAV) strains are poorly matched, vaccine-induced antibodies may not protect from infection. Highly conserved T cell epitopes may, however, have a disease-mitigating effect. The degree of T cell epitope conservation among circulating strains and vaccine strains can vary, which may also explain differences in vaccine efficacy. Here, we evaluate a previously developed conserved T cell epitope-based vaccine and determine the persistence of T cell epitope conservation over time. We used a pair-wise homology score to define conservation between the vaccine’s swine leukocyte antigen (SLA) class I and II-restricted epitopes and T cell epitopes found in 1,272 swine IAV strains sequenced between 2013 and 2017. Twenty-four of the 48 total T cell epitopes included in the epitope-based vaccine were highly conserved and found in >1,000 circulating swine IAV strains over the five-year period. In contrast, commercial swine IAV vaccines developed in 2013 exhibited declining conservation with the circulating IAV strains over the same five-year period. Conserved T cell epitope vaccines may be useful adjunct for commercial swine flu vaccines and to improve protection against influenza when antibodies are not cross-reactive.

Background: It is well known the adverse effect of mercury exposure on pregnant women and newborns. Interactions between environmental factors and individual genetic susceptibility have been identified, particularly polymorphisms of codifying genes for the Glutathione S-transferase family (GSTs). Herein, we report a case series of patients with high Hg levels in biosamples. Case Series: Fourteen cases with high Hg levels were identified. Non-occupational or home exposure risk factors were identified. All mothers reported fish consumption during pregnancy. Almost 60% of the individuals were null for either one GSTs gene. To date, in the subsequent mother-child pairs toxicology controls no signs or symptoms of poisoning were identified and most of the mercury levels decreased and are below the accepted limit. Discussion: In this case series we found some similarities with the literature; among them, the relation of Hg ratio in maternal blood and umbilical cord, a possible exposure factor is the consumption of fish during pregnancy and, the high levels of Hg may be related with susceptibility biomarkers such as GSTs gene polymorphisms. This case series highlights the need to develop studies that evaluate the interactions between environmental factors and individual genetic susceptibility. Additionally, the importance of evaluating which Colombian fish species present the highest levels of Hg.

The performance of the presurgical test (preSurg) for temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) was evaluated via video-electroencephalography (VEEG), electroencephalography (EEG), 99mTc-HmPAO single-photon emission tomography (SPECT) and 1.5 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a group of 112 men (37.0 ± 1.1 years) and 106 women (39.7 ± 1.1 years) operated on for TLE. The epileptic zone (EZ) was adequately identified to determine whether the patient reached an Engel I grade (EI) at least one year postop. Accuracy was evaluated by the coefficient α, ranging from 3 (when result = EZ) to 2 (result in the same hemisphere as the EZ), 1 (noninformative result) or 0 (EZ in the contralateral hemisphere). The simplicity of diagnosis was defined as the number of preSurg surgeries needed to identify the EZ. EI was obtained in 85.8% of patients even though 42.2% of patients had noninformative MRI results. For preSurg α was (mean ± SEM) = VEEG (2.83 ± 0.04) &gt; MRI (2.14 ± 0.08) &gt; EEG (1.87 ± 0.09) &gt; SPECT (1.71 ± 0.09). The accuracy (combination of sensitivity and specificity) was calculated as follows: VEEG (0.797) &gt; MRI (0.518) &gt; EEG (0.446) &gt; SPECT (0.360). The likelihood positive ratio was greater, and the likelihood negative ratio was lower for VEEG. The most relevant factor for the regression model was VEEG (3.106) &gt; MRI (2.558) &gt; EEG (1.905), and the factors were not significantly related to SPECT. EZs in EI patients with low simplicity were identified mainly by VEEG. A very good postoperative outcome can be obtained even in TLE patients with no lesions on MRI. The VEEG is the most reliable preSurg test and may be the only reliable test for patients with very low simplicity (i.e., difficult).single paragraph of about 200 words maximum. For research articles, abstracts should give a pertinent overview of the work. We strongly encourage authors to use the following style of structured abstracts, but without headings: (1) Background: Place the question addressed in a broad context and highlight the purpose of the study; (2) Methods: briefly describe the main methods or treatments applied; (3) Results: summarize the article’s main findings; (4) Conclusions: indicate the main conclusions or interpretations. The abstract should be an objective representation of the article and it must not contain results that are not presented and substantiated in the main text and should not exaggerate the main conclusions.

“De-[Constructing] Growth” is offered as a deeper and more useful conceptualization that avoids the negative connotations of, and resistance to, “degrowth” by decoupling profit from unsustainable consumption, production, and inequality.

Currently, there is no effective antiviral therapy recommended for the new coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia (COVID-19). The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the safety of Ozonized Saline Solution (O₃SS) used as a complementary therapy in adult patients COVID-19. Twenty-five adult patients who were hospitalized with mild to severe COVID-19 symptoms, who met the inclusion criteria and were being treated from April 18^rd to April 26th, 2020, at the Viamed Virgen De La Paloma Hospital, Madrid, Spain were included in this study. Patients were allocated to receive standard care (SC) that included 200-400 mg hydroxychloroquine twice daily for 5-7 days plus Tocilizumab 400 mg twice daily for 5 days, low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and 40 mg-60 mg metil-prednisone plus O₃SS, 200 mL, 3-5 µg/mL daily for 10 days. No control group was included, data were compared to clinical trials in this subject. Primary outcomes of treatment with O₃SS were an improvement of clinical symptoms and a reduction in mortality. Secondary end points evaluated included participant clinical status, laboratory examinations, and duration of viral shedding. None of the patients treated with SC + O₃SS died. Improvements in symptoms such as dyspnea, weakness, and reduction in body temperature were observed and corresponded with an improvement of laboratory finding including D-dimer, fibrinogen, LDH, and CRP. No side effects from the O₃SS treatment were observed. Conclusions: COVID-19 patients with mild to severe symptoms who received intravenous O₃SS as a complementary therapy demonstrated no side effects. This preliminary data will be served as base for a future study of the efficacy of this therapy.

Background: Older adults with bipolar disorder (OABD) are individuals aged 50 years and older with bipolar disorder (BD). People with BD may have fewer coping strategies or resilience. A long course of the disease, such as in OABD, could impact the development of resilience strategies, but this remains under-researched in OABD. Therefore, this study aims to assess resilience levels within the OABD and explore associated factors, hypothesizing that resilience could improve psychosocial functioning, wellbeing and quality of life of OABD patients. Methods: This study sampled 33 OABD patients from the OABD cohort at the Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit of Hospital Clinic of Barcelona. This was an observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study. Demographic and clinical variables as well as psychosocial functioning, resilience and cognitive reserve were analyzed. Resilience was measured using the CD-RISC-10. Non-parametric tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: The average CD-RISC-10 score was 25.67 points (SD 7.87). Resilience negatively correlated with the total number of episodes (p = 0.034), depressive episodes (p = 0.001), and the FAST (p < 0.001). Participants with normal resilience had a lower FAST (p = 0.046), a higher CRASH (p = 0.026), and more EOBD (p = 0.037) compared to those with low resilience. Conclusions: OABD individuals may exhibit lower resilience levels which correlate with more psychiatric episodes, particularly the number of depressions and worse psychosocial functioning and cognitive reserve. Better understanding and characterization of resilience could aid in early identification of patients requiring additional support to foster resilience and enhance OABD management.

Background/Aim: Stool gluten immunogenic peptides (GIP) determination is now considered a valuable tool for detecting dietary lapses in treated celiac disease (CeD) patients. Our study aims to explore the diagnostic performance of a qualitative lateral flow immunoassay point-of-care test (LFIA/PoCT) compared with a qualitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detection of stool GIP. Methods: The study is a post hoc analysis of stool samples collected in the real-life conditions from a cohort of gluten-free diet-treated CeD patients. Stool GIP was measured in µg/g of stool using an ELISA kit (iVYLISA GIP S®, Biomedal SL). For the qualitative evaluation of stool GIP, a LFIA/PoCT test (GlutenDetect®; Biomedal S.L) was employed, which reported results as positive or negative. The LFIA/PoCT performance was evaluated against ELISA, considered as the gold standard. GIP concentrations

Visible-light photocatalysis, particularly in its application to organic synthesis, has experienced a big renaissance in the past decade. The rational design of new photocatalysts with designed and improved photocatalytic properties, that at the same time circumvents the necessity of using scarce and toxic transition metals, will predictably play a key role in photocatalysis in the next few years. Although free-base porphyrins were identified some years ago as a promising, easily accessible and easily tunable class of organic photoredox catalysts, a systematic study on the effect of the electronic nature and of the position of the substituents on both the ground-state and the excited-state redox potentials of these compounds is still lacking. We have prepared a set of known functionalized derivatives of meso-tetraphenyl porphyrin containing different substituents either in one of the meso-positions or at a beta-pyrrole carbon and we have determined their ground- and (singlet) excited-state redox potentials. This survey has led us to conclude that the introduction of a carbonyl group at the beta-pyrrolic position strongly increases the facility of the monoelectronic reduction of the porphyrin both in the ground state and in the singlet excited state. We have also prepared a second set of four previously unknown benzoyl derivatives of meso-tetraphenylporphyrin, and we have confirmed the validity of our conclusions.

This study aimed to compare three different extracts of Saco sweet cherry, namely non-coloured fraction, coloured fraction and total extract concerning phenolic composition, antioxidant and antidiabetic potential, erythrocytes’ protection and effects on Caco-2 cells. A total of 22 phenolic compounds were identified by LC-DAD. Hydroxycinnamic acids were the most predominant in both non-coloured fraction and total extract, while cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside was the main anthocyanin found in the coloured fraction. The total extract was the most effective against DPPH, nitric oxide and superoxide radicals, and in the inhibition of α-glucosidase enzyme. Finally, the protective effect of the extracts to prevent oxidative damage in human erythrocytes was assessed. The coloured fraction revealed the best activity against hemoglobin oxidation and hemolysis. Regarding to Caco-2 cells, the coloured extract exhibited the most cytotoxic effects, while the total extract was the most efficient in protecting these cells against oxidative damage induced by t-BHP.

Malassezia is a lipid-dependent genus of yeasts known for being an important part of the skin mycobiota. These yeasts have been associated in the development of skin disorders and cataloged as a causal agent of systemic infections under specific conditions, making them opportunistic pathogens. Little is known about the host-microbe interaction of Malassezia spp., and unraveling this implies the implementation of infection models. In this mini review we present different models that have been implemented in the fungal infections study with greater attention in Malassezia spp. infections. These models range from in vitro (cell cultures and ex vivo tissue), to in vivo (murine models, rabbits, guinea pigs, insects, nematodes, and amoebas). We additionally highlight the alternative models that reduce the use of mammals as model organisms, which have been gaining importance in the study of fungal host-microbe interactions. This is due to the fact that these systems have shown to have reliable results, which correlate with those obtained from mammalian models. Example of alternative models are Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster, Tenebrio molitor, and Galleria mellonella. These are invertebrates that have been implemented in the study of Malassezia spp. infections in order to identify differences in virulence between Malassezia species.

Sparkling wines elaborated by means Ancestral method, also called Pét-Nats, are nowadays gaining an increasing share of the market. However, the scientific information about these wines is very scarce. For that reason, the aim of this research was to compare the physicochemical composition and sensory attributes of a representative sampling of commercial sparkling wines elaborated by Ancestral and Traditional methods. Ancestral sparkling wines were more heterogenous than Traditional sparkling wines because some of them showed lower internal pressure, higher turbidity, higher colour intensity and less foamability. These differences would be probably because the ancestral elaboration protocol is not so well defined as in the case of Traditional sparkling wines. However, Ancestral method has the advantage of being able to work with riper grapes and with lower doses of sulphur dioxide.

Solid polymer electrolytes and composite polymer electrolytes serve as crucial components in all-solid-state energy storage devices. Structural batteries and supercapacitors present a promising alternative for electric vehicles, integrating structural functionality with energy storage capability. However, despite their potential, these applications are hampered by various challenges, particularly in the realm of developing new solid polymer electrolytes that require more investigations. In this study, novel solid polymer electrolytes and composite polymer electrolytes were synthesized using epoxy resin blends, ionic liquid, lithium salt, and alumina nanoparticles, and subsequently characterized. Among the formulations tested, the optimal system, designated as L70P30ILE40Li1MAl2 and containing 40 wt.% of ionic liquid and 5.7 wt.% of lithium salt, exhibited exceptional mechanical properties. It displayed a remarkable storage modulus of 1.2 GPa and reached ionic conductivities of 0.085 mS/cm at 60°C. Furthermore, a proof-of-concept supercapacitor was fabricated, demonstrating the practical application of the developed electrolyte system.

This study aimed to verify the effects of an acute increase in blood pressure (BP) and/or renal sympathetic nerve activity (rSNA) on the renal excretion of sodium and water and its potential effect on the regulation of NHE3 activity. Uninephectomized anesthetized male Wistar rats were divided into three experimental groups: 1) Sham, the rats had their BP and rSNA recorded, and urine was collected for 2 h; 2) bicuculline (Bic) paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), rat BP, and rSNA were recorded, and urine was collected for 1 h at baseline conditions and 1 h after bicuculline injection into the PVN; 3) RNS + Bicuculine injection into the PVN, BP, and rSNA were recorded, and urine was collected 1h after RNS and 1 h after bicuculline injection into the PVN. Renal nerve stimulation (RNS) decreased sodium and water excretion independent of changes in BP. However, after Bic in the PVN during RNS stimulation, BP and rSNA increased up to 30% and 60%, respectively, increasing diuresis (5-fold) and natriuresis (2.3-fold), accompanied by a significant reduction in the NHE3 activity independent of GFR changes. In conclusion, an acute increase in BP overcomes such effects, generating diuresis, natriuresis, and NHE3 activity inhibition.

Recently Palle has investigated the chiral vorticity and Cartan torsion in neutrino asymmetries. In his case he addressed this problem in Goedel s like anisotropic Einstein-Catan cosmology. In this paper we discusse how these ideas applied to sheared Bianchi types I Einstein-Cartan (EC) neutrino amisotropic cosmology, affect the handness of neutrinos in the universe. Actually here a novel concept of the chiral metric is introduced where metric functions also possess two distinct signs as in neutrino flipping or helicity. The axial anomaly equation for neutrinos in the presence of torsion and metric chirality is shown to produce left-handed neutrinos from right-handed torsion. Metric chirality is shown to be able to define how the metric would behave far away of neutrino density. Chiral flipping of the chiral neutrinos in the presence of torsion is also investigated. It is shown that when the chiral torsion is left-handed the chemical chiral potential vanishes as the universe expands.

Purpose: Determine the internal consistency and reproducibility test-retest of the Barrier Scale for Cardiac Rehabilitation (BSCR) in Colombian population. Methods: 190 patients (67% men, average age = 65 ± 12 years) completed the scale in two moments, with an average of eight days between applications. Cronbach's Alpha and Intraclass Correlation (ICC) coefficients were calculated. Results: The internal consistency of the Colombian version of the BSCR was good (Cronbach's alpha = 0.85). The ICC of the instrument was 0.69 (95% CI 0.61-0.76), 0.78 (95% CI 0.71-0.84) when used in the interview type, and 0.47 (95% CI 0, 21-0.67) when it was self-completing. Conclusions: The EBRC has an acceptable reliability in the Colombian population, however, its reproducibility decreases when it is self-directed. Identifying barriers using this scale will allow developing strategies to increase participation and adherence to cardiac rehabilitation programs focused on the real needs of patients.

The effect of sonication on the molecular characteristics of poliacrylic acid (Carbopol® Ultrez 10) and its rheological behavior in aqueous dispersions and microgels containing 0.25 wt. % of the polymer was analyzed in this work by rheometry, weight-average molecular weight (Mw) measurements via static light scattering (SLS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and confocal microscopy. For this, the precursor dispersion and the microgels were sonicated in a commercial ultrasound bath at constant power and different times. We observed a softening of the microgel microstructure consisting of a systematic decrease in its shear modulus, yield stress and viscosity with increasing sonication time, while their overall Herschel-Bulkley (H-B) behavior was preserved. SLS measurements evidenced a reduction of Mw of polyacrylic acid with sonication time. Separately, FTIR measurements indicate that sonication produces scission in the C-C links of the Carbopol® backbone, which results in chains with the same chemistry but lower molecular weight. Finally, confocal microscopy measurements revealed a concomitant diminution of the size of the microsponge domains with sonication time, which is reflected in a softer microstructure resulting from reduction of the molecular weight of polyacrylic acid. The present results indicate that both the microstructure and the rheological behavior of Carbopol® microgels, in particular, and complex fluids in general, may be manipulated or tailored by high-power ultrasonication.

The leaves and stems of Bauhinia guianensis Aubl. are used in traditional Amazonian phytotherapy for the treatment of pain and inflammation. This study investigates the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of hydroethanolic extracts from B. guianensis Aubl. leaves and stems (HELBg and HESBg, respectively) in in vivo models of inflammation and hyperalgesia. Danio rerio experimental animals were submitted to the acute inflammation test, induced by intraperitoneal (ip.) administration of carrageenan 20 μg / animal (abdominal edema), the groups were previously treated orally with saline solution 2 μl / animal (SS), Dimethyl sulfoxide 2 μl / animal (DMSO), Indomethacin 10 mg/kg, HELBg 100 mg/kg and HESBg 100 mg/kg, n = 12 per experimental group, to evaluate inhibition of edema and alterations histopathology of the liver, intestine and kidney of these animals. The antinociceptive effect was observed from the body curvature index and the behavioral responses of Danio rerio, after an experimental protocol for the induction of hyperalgesia, by ip. administration of 10 μl / animal of 2.5% acetic acid, the animals were previously orally treated with saline solution 2 μl/animal (SS), dimethyl sulfoxide 2 μl/animal (DMSO), morphine 2.5 mg/kg, HELBg 100 mg/kg and HESBg 100 mg/kg, n = 5 per experimental group. In carrageenan-induced edema, the group treated with HESBg inhibited edema formation over the 3 hours of the experiment. Maximum edema was inhibited by 54% (p &lt; 0.05) when compared to the control group. Both HELBg and HESBg prevented body curvature index changes (t (df = 3 8) =, 6.96 and t (df = 3, 8) = 6.61, respectively, both p &lt; 0.0001). In the behavioral parameters sensitive to antinociceptive pharmacological modulation, due to the abdominal constriction induced by acetic acid, the administration of HELBg and HESBg resulted in an improvement in swimming activity, by increasing the distance covered (F (df = 3, 16) = 6.50 and F (df = 3, 16)  = 7.72, respectively, both p &lt; 0.0001), decrease in freezing time (F (df = 3, 16)  = 2.04 and F (df = 3, 16)  = 1.28, respectively, both p &lt; 0.0059), increase in the number of ascents to the upper area of the tank (F (df = 3, 16)  = 33.02 and F (df = 3, 16)  = 35.62, respectively, both p &lt; 0.0009 ) and decreased time spent in that area (F (df = 3, 16)  = 101.19 and F (df = 3, 16)  = 103.59, respectively, both p &lt; 0.0038). It is reasonable to suppose that both extracts modulated the variations induced by carrageenan and acetic acid through the inhibition of prostaglandin biosynthesis, decreasing the release of inflammatory mediators and the sensitization of peripheral nociceptors and, consequently, the perception of pain. These results suggest that HELBg and HESBg have anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities, probably of peripheral origin and linked to the inhibition of prostaglandin biosynthesis.

The leaves and stems of Bauhinia guianensis Aubl. are used in traditional Amazonian phytotherapy for the treatment of pain and inflammation. This study investigates the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of hydroethanolic extracts from B. guianensis Aubl. leaves and stems (HELBg and HESBg, respectively) in in vivo models of inflammation and hyperalgesia. Danio rerio experimental animals were submitted to the acute inflammation test, induced by intraperitoneal (ip.) administration of carrageenan 20 μg / animal (abdominal edema), the groups were previously treated orally with saline solution 2 μl / animal (SS), Dimethyl sulfoxide 2 μl / animal (DMSO), Indomethacin 10 mg/Kg, HELBg 100 mg/Kg and HESBg 100 mg/Kg, n = 12 per experimental group, to evaluate inhibition of edema and alterations histopathology of the liver, intestine and kidney of these animals. The antinociceptive effect was observed from the body curvature index and the behavioral responses of Danio rerio, after an experimental protocol for the induction of hyperalgesia, by ip administration. of 10 μl / animal of 2.5% acetic acid, the animals were previously orally treated with saline solution 2 μl/animal (SS), dimethyl sulfoxide 2 μl/animal (DMSO), morphine 2.5 mg/Kg, HELBg 100 mg/Kg and HESBg 100 mg/Kg, n = 5 per experimental group. In carrageenan-induced edema, the group treated with HESBg inhibited edema formation over the 3 hours of the experiment. Maximum edema was inhibited by 54% (p &lt; 0.05) when compared to the control group. Both HELBg and HESBg prevented body curvature index changes (t (df = 3 8) =, 6.96 and t (df = 3, 8) = 6.61, respectively, both p &lt; 0.0001). In the behavioral parameters sensitive to antinociceptive pharmacological modulation, due to the abdominal constriction induced by acetic acid, the administration of HELBg and HESBg resulted in an improvement in swimming activity, by increasing the distance covered (F (df = 3, 16) = 6.50 and F (df = 3, 16)  = 7.72, respectively, both p &lt; 0.0001), decrease in freezing time (F (df = 3, 16)  = 2.04 and F (df = 3, 16)  = 1.28, respectively, both p &lt; 0.0059), increase in the number of ascents to the upper area of the tank (F (df = 3, 16)  = 33.02 and F (df = 3, 16)  = 35.62, respectively, both p &lt; 0.0009 ) and decreased time spent in that area (F (df = 3, 16)  = 101.19 and F (df = 3, 16)  = 103.59, respectively, both p &lt; 0.0038). It is reasonable to suppose that both extracts modulated the variations induced by carrageenan and acetic acid through the inhibition of prostaglandin biosynthesis, decreasing the release of inflammatory mediators and the sensitization of peripheral nociceptors and, consequently, the perception of pain. These results suggest that HELBg and HESBg have anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities, probably of peripheral origin and linked to the inhibition of prosta-glandin biosynthesis

Over the last two decades, a considerable amount of equipment has been acquired (spreaders, seeders, sprayers, among others) to respond to the challenges of Precision Agriculture (PA) concept. Most of this equipment has been purchased at a high cost. However, many of them, despite still being functional and equipped with sensors, actuators, and electronic processing units capable of adjusting to variations in speed, have become obsolete in terms of communication, and incompatible with new monitoring and control systems based on the “Isobus” protocol. This work aims to present a solution for updating the control system (“Ferticontrol”) of a “Vicon RS-EDW” spreader with variable rate application (VRA), making it compatible with the “InCommand” system from “Ag Leader”. The solution includes low-cost “Arduino” and “Raspberry Pi” microcontrollers and open-source software. The development shows that it is possible to implement a solution that is accessible to farmers in general. It also provides a niche business opportunity for young researchers to set up small technology-based enterprises associated with universities and research centers. These partnerships guarantee permanent innovation and represent a decisive step towards modern, technological, competitive, and sustainable agriculture.

Cities are complex systems requiring urban design models that balance order and disorder. Collective creativity initiatives engage citizens in these processes, empowering bottom-up approaches that prioritize people and social well-being within urban development. This paper investigates an 'Urban Laboratory' as a case study, examining the potential of collective creativity to address urban complexity. The successful and ongoing project 'El Campo de Cebada' in Madrid, Spain, demonstrates how a community transformed a vacant lot into a vibrant social hub. The phases of this study include case selection, data collection, data analysis, and presentation of the results. This study identifies key enabling factors, including agents, management, social dynamics, infrastructure, and actions. These insights offer a methodological framework for designing future collaborative, resilient, and inclusive urban spaces, addressing the complex needs of communities within our cities.

Copper-catalyzed and organocopper-involved reactions are of great significance in organic synthesis. To have a deep understanding of the reaction mechanisms, the structural characterizations of organocopper intermediates become indispensable. Meanwhile, the structure-function relationship of organocopper compounds would advance rational design and development of new Cu-based reactions and organocopper reagents. Compared to the mono-carbonic ligand, the C,N- and C,C-bidentate ligands better stabilize the unstable organocopper compounds. The bidentate ligands can chelate to the same copper atom via ?2-mode, forming a mono-cupra-cyclic compounds with at least one acute C-Cu-C angle. When the bidentate ligands bind to two copper atoms via ?1-mode at each coordinating site, the bimetallic macrocyclic compounds will form nearly linear C-Cu-C angles. The anionic coordinating sites of the bidentate ligand can also bridge two metals via ?2-mode, forming organocopper aggregates with Cu-Cu interactions and organocuprates with contact ion pair structures. The reaction chemistry of some selected organocopper compounds is highlighted, showing their unique structure-reactivity relationships.

Cancer is a complex and heterogeneous disease, influenced by various factors that affect its progression and response to treatment. Although histopathological diagnosis is crucial for identifying and classifying cancer, it may not accurately predict the disease's development and evolution in all cases. To address this limitation, liquid biopsy has emerged as a valuable tool, enabling a more precise and non-invasive analysis of cancer. Liquid biopsy offers the ability to detect tumor DNA fragments, circulating tumor cells, and exosomes released by cancer cells into the bloodstream. Exosomes, in particular, have attracted significant attention in cancer research due to their specific protein composition, which can provide valuable insights into the disease. The protein profile of exosomes often differs from that of normal cells, reflecting the unique molecular characteristics of cancer. Analyzing these proteins can help identify cancer-associated markers that play critical roles in tumor progression, invasion, and metastasis. Ongoing research and clinical validation are essential to advance and effectively utilize protein biomarkers in cancer. Nevertheless, their potential to improve diagnosis and treatment is highly promising. This review discuss several exosome proteins of interest in breast cancer, particularly focusing on studies conducted in mammary tissue and cell lines in humans and experimental animals. Unfortunately, the studies conducted in the canine species are scarce. This emphasis sheds light on the limited research available in this field. Additionally, we present a curated selection of studies that have explored exosomal proteins as potential biomarkers, aiming to achieve the aforementioned benefits in breast cancer diagnosis, prognosis, monitoring, and treatment.

Canine mammary tumors (CMTs) are among the most common disease in female dogs and share similarities with human breast cancer, which have placed these animals as a model of study in comparative oncology. Metabolic reprogramming is one of them and is known as a hallmark of carcinogenesis whereby cells undergo adjustments to supply the high bioenergetic and biosynthetic demands of rapidly proliferating cells. However, such alterations are also vulnerabilities that may serve as therapeutic strategies which have been tested mostly in human clinical trials, but poorly explored in CMTs. In this dedicated review, we compilated the metabolic changes described for CMTs emphasizing the metabolism of carbohydrates, amino acids, lipids, and mitochondrial function. We observed here key factors associated with the presence and aggressiveness of CMTs, such as the increase in glucose uptake followed by enhanced anaerobic glycolysis via upregulation of glycolytic enzymes, changes in glutamine catabolism due to overexpression of glutaminases, raise in fatty acid oxidation and distinct effects depending on the lipid saturation, in addition to mitochondrial DNA which is a hotspot for mutations. Therefore, more attention should be paid to this topic given that targeting metabolic fragilities could improve the outcome of CMTs.

The fulfillment of rights to maternal healthcare is a key factor for wellbeing of woman. However, there is a lack of instrument to know the experience of women during maternity to bind the monitoring. The aim of this study was to validate an instrument to measure the woman’s perception of the fulfillment of rights during healthcare in pregnancy, childbirth and immediate postpartum. The instrument consist in 50 items was screening by an exploratory factor analysis. Additionally, the final version of the instrument consists in 29 items which was validate by confirmatory factor analysis and know-group validity. The instrument was applied in 185 Spanish women. The global Aiken’s V of initial instrument proposal was 0.89. Process resolves an instrument with 5 factors (information, privacy, consent, support, and participation) that explained the 60% of the total variance. The score of the instrument was correlated with resilience, maternity beliefs, and positive and negative affect. External validation showed relations with age, gravida, and number of labors. Additionally, the reliability Cronbach´s was 0.93 [0.91; 0.94]. In conclusion, the instrument developed is consistent and has appropriate psychometric properties for assess the fulfillment rights maternity healthcare.

Although the empirical Kepler’s laws can be proven by applying Newton’s laws to the dynamics of two particles attracted due to the gravitational interaction, there is no explicit formula for the motion as a function of time. In this paper, a quasi-analytical solution for this problem is proposed. It approximates the real behavior of celestial bodies with an acceptable degree of accuracy. All calculations involved require a low computational cost. This problem is closely related to Kepler’s equation, since, the solution for the equations of motion as a function of time gives us the solution to Kepler’s equation as well. The results are presented for each planet of the solar system (including Pluto), and the solution is compared against the real orbits.

To examine the association of sleep quality and work from home with physical inactivity (PI) in leisure time during Covid-19 pandemic. A population-based household survey was conducted in two Bra-zilian municipalities from October to December 2020. Leisure-time physical activity (PA) was self-reported, and individuals who practiced less than 150 minutes of moderate PA or 75 minutes of vigorous PA weekly were classified as PI. Sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). WFH was assessed by: "Currently, how is your work routine regarding location? Associations were investigated using logistic regression and directed acyclic graphs (DAG) for the multivariate models. A total of 1,750 adults were interviewed, 69.1% were PI and 51.9% had poor sleep quality. Furthermore, 79.8% were not in WFH. In multivariate analysis, leisure PI was associated with poor sleep quality (OR:1.59: 95% CI: 1.02-2.48), and not being in WFH (OR:1.62: 95% CI: 1.05-2.50). When performing the combined analysis between these two factors, and who were not in WFH were four times more likely to be PI at leisure (OR=4.22;95%CI:2.05-8.65). The results indicate a high prevalence of PI, with poor quality sleep and non-WFH associated with leisure PI. These combined factors exacer-bated the occurrence of PI.

The study evaluated the impact of supplementing ZH in combination with D3 on growth performance, energy efficiency, carcass traits, and meat quality of feedlot lambs. Thirty-two Dorper x Katahdin cross lambs (37.3±5.72 kg) were utilized in a 29 d experiment in a complete randomized block design with a 2x2 factorial structure consisting of two levels of ZH for 26 d (0 and 0.20 mg /kg PV-1) and two levels of D3 for 7 d (0 and 1.5x106 IU/d-1). ZH improved (P≤0.05) average daily gain (ADG) and feed efficiency by 9.9% and 17.8%, respectively, as well as hot carcass weight (HCW) and dressing carcass by 4.3% and 2.6%, respectively. (p≤0.03). However, ZH increased (p<0.01) muscle pH and Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF) (2.5 and 23.0%, respectively). D3 supplementation negatively affected (P≤0.02) dry matter intake (DMI) (last 7 d) and ADG by 15.7% and 18.1%. On the other hand, D3 improved the pH of the longissimus muscle (LM) by 1.7% (p=0.03) without affecting WBSF. When D3 was supplemented in combination with ZH, it was observed that meat quality was improved by reducing muscle pH compared to lambs treated only with ZH. However, D3 did not improve meat tenderness produced by ZH supplementation.

Thermal comfort is extremely important in architecture, especially in environments with more people spending longer on studies or intellectual activities. This research describes a case study to investigate university buildings' energy and thermal performance as a part of the ANEEL program. Due to this importance, and the need to save energy in Brazilian public buildings, the ANEEL-the Brazilian Energy Electricity Regulatory Agency, launched 2016 a national program focusing on energy efficiency in public universities around the country. University offices and classrooms require high intellectual effort; thus, environmental comfort is critical for maintaining its users' physical and mental health. This study included a pre-diagnosis of the performance of the envelope, lighting, and air conditioning systems and a survey about the quality of the environments from the users' point of view. The Prescriptive Method of the Brazilian Labeling Program (PBE) for Commercial, Service, and Public Buildings (RTQ-C) assessed the building performance. Statistical analysis was applied to correlate the quality and thermal preference of the users from the PMV/PPD. The results showed a high rate of thermal discomfort in both environments of the studies, even when using air conditioning.

In recent years, advancements in brain science and neuroscience have significantly influenced the field of computer science, particularly in the domain of reinforcement learning (RL). Drawing insights from neurobiology and neuropsychology, researchers have leveraged these findings to develop novel mechanisms for understanding intelligent decision-making processes in the brain. Concurrently, the emergence of quantum computing has opened new frontiers in artificial intelligence, leading to the development of quantum machine learning (QML). This study introduces a novel model that integrates Quantum Spiking Neural Networks (QSNN) and Quantum Long Short-Term Memory (QLSTM) architectures, inspired by the complex workings of the human brain. Specifically designed for reinforcement learning tasks in energy-efficient environments, our approach progresses through two distinct stages mirroring sensory and memory systems. In the initial stage, analogous to the brain’s hypothalamus, low-level information is extracted to emulate sensory data processing patterns. Subsequently, resembling the hippocampus, this information is processed at a higher level, capturing and memorizing correlated patterns. We conduct a comparative analysis of our model against existing quantum models such as Quantum Neural Networks and their classical counterparts, elucidating its unique contributions. Through empirical results, we aim to underscore the effectiveness of our approach in optimizing energy consumption in practical scenarios.

We studied the influence of lava meal, zeolite and top layer of sandy soil as bedding additives on gaseous C and N losses from a sloping-floor barn of naturally ventilated animal housing. We selected four barn units where eight young bulls’ group was reared in each barn. Chopped straw of wheat and barley applied daily at the rate of 5 kg per livestock unit (LU) in bedding areas where one LU consisted of 500 kg body mass of live bulls. Zeolite, lava meal and sandy soil (18% clay + silt) applied in barn at the rate of 10, 20 and 30% of straw dose, respectively. Static flux chamber was used to measure gases emissions from the barn unit and mass balance calculation was used to calculate straw manure total N (TN) losses during housing phase. On an average, all bedding additives decreased 85% of the NH₃ emission compared to control; however, they did not influence CH₄ emission. Zeolite decreased CO₂ (35%) and N₂O (37%) emission rates. Subsequently, lava meal, sandy soil and zeolite decreased 23, 37, and 50% of TN losses from barn manure, respectively. Overall, measured N emissions through NH₃-N and N₂O-N from the barns was 11% of calculated TN losses while remainder 89% was most probably attributed to di-nitrogen (N₂), a harmless gas. Hence, in straw-based cattle housings, zeolite could be a promising additive for reduction of CO₂, N₂O and NH₃ emissions and sandy soil can be considered as cheap and readily available resource for reducing NH₃ emission.

Silicon Photomultipliers find applications across various fields. One potential Silicon Photomultiplier application domain is neutrino telescopes, where they may enhance the angular resolution. However, the elevated dark count rate associated with Silicon Photomultipliers represents a significant challenge to their widespread utilization. To address this issue, it is proposed to use Silicon Photomultipliers and Photomultiplier Tubes together. The Photomultiplier Tubes signals would serve as a trigger to mitigate the dark count rate, thereby preventing undue saturation of the available bandwidth. This paper presents an investigation into a fast and resource-efficient method for filtering Silicon Photomultiplier dark count rate. A low-resource and fast coincident filter has been developed, which removes the Silicon Photomultiplier dark count rate by using as trigger the Photomultiplier Tube input signals. The architecture of the coincidence filter, together with the first results obtained, which validate the effectiveness of this method are presented.

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected the food supply chain, including producers, retailers, wholesalers, and customers. To minimize the impacts caused by pandemics and epidemics on food supply chains, it is fundamental to implement effective policies that ensure continuity in the provision, affordability, and distribution of basic food items. This research aims to identify the main impacts of pandemics and epidemics on food supply chains and policies that can minimize these impacts. Based on a systematic literature review (SLR), 174 documents are analysed to propose a taxonomy of impacts on four supply chain links: demand-side, supply-side, logistics and infrastructure, and management and operation. The taxonomy presents the main impacts, as well as the respective mitigation policies simultaneously. In addition, the literature review leads to the development of a comprehensive causal loop diagram (CLD) with the identification of main variables and their relationship with food supply chains. Finally, a specific research agenda is proposed by identifying main research gaps. These findings provide a structured method for evaluating policies that ensure the functioning of food supply chains, particularly in disruptions such epidemics and pandemics.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major public health threat associated with serious clinical consequences worldwide. The WHO reports an estimated 58 million people globally living with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, with 1.5 million new cases and over 350,000 deaths annually due to HCV-related diseases. Despite the existence of multiple diagnostic methods, the accessibility of diagnosis and treatment is often hindered across the continent by limited resources, insufficient healthcare infrastructure, and low public awareness of Hepatitis C virus Hepatitis C virus infection is a major public health concern in African countries, which have the highest prevalence rates of HCV in the world (1–26%). Egypt, African country which had the highest prevalence of Hepatitis C virus infection in the world. Its national hepatitis C elimination initiative emerges as an exemplary case of success an having screened over 60 million individuals, and treated more than 4 million, thereby markedly diminishing both the prevalence and incidence of the disease. The strategies employed by Egypt offer critical insights and adaptable frameworks for other African Countries facing analogous challenges. The Aim of this Review is to highlight the triumphs and hurdles of Egypt's approach, while also providing strategic guidance for African Countries to accelerate the journey towards the eradication of hepatitis C.

Objectives: The hierarchical structure of enamel gives insight on the properties of enamel and can influence its strength and ultimately caries experience. Presently, past caries experience is quantified using the decayed, missing, filled teeth/decayed, missing, filled surface (DMFT/DMFS for permanent teeth; dmft/dmfs for primary teeth) or international caries detection and assessment system (ICDAS) scores. By analyzing the structure of enamel, a new measurement can be utilized clinically to predict susceptibility to future caries experience based on a patient’s individual’s biomarkers. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that number of prisms by square millimeter in enamel and average gap distance between prisms and interprismatic areas, influence caries experience through genetic variation of the genes involved in enamel formation. Materials and Methods: Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of enamel from primary teeth were used to measure number of prisms by square millimeter and interprismatic spaces, prism density and gap distances between prisms in the enamel samples. The measurements were tested to explore a genetic association with variants of selected genes and correlations with caries experience based on the individual’s DMFT+ dmft score and enamel microhardness at baseline, after an artificial lesion was created and after the artificial lesion was treated with fluoride. Results: Associations were found between variants of genes including ameloblastin, amelogenin, enamelin, tuftelin, tuftelin interactive protein 11, beta defensin 1, matrix metallopeptidase 20 and enamel structure variables measured. Significant correlations were found between caries experience and microhardness and enamel structure. Negative correlations were found between number of prisms by square millimeter and high caries experience (r value= -0.71), gap distance between prisms and the enamel microhardness after an artificial lesion was created (r value= -0.70), and gap distance between prisms and the enamel microhardness after an artificial lesion was created and then treated with fluoride (r value= -0.81). There was a positive correlation between number of prisms by square millimeter and prism density of the enamel (r value= 0.82). Conclusions: our data support that genetic variation may impact enamel formation, and therefore influence susceptibility to dental decay and future caries experience. Clinical Relevance: The evaluation of enamel structure that may impact caries experience allows for hypothesizing that the identification of individuals at higher risk for dental caries and implementation of personalized preventative treatments may one day become a reality.

Multi-task Gaussian processes (MTGPs) are a powerful approach for modeling structured dependencies among multiple tasks. Researchers on MTGPs have contributed to enhance this approach in various ways. Current MTGP methods, however, cannot model nonlinear task correlations in a general way. In this paper we address this problem. We focus on spectral mixture (SM) based kernels and propose an enhancement of this type of kernels, called multi-task generalized convolution spectral mixture (MT-GCSM) kernel. The MT-GCSM kernel can model nonlinear task correlations and mixtures dependency, including time and phase delay, not only between different tasks but also within a task at the spectral mixture level. Each task in MT-GCSM has its own generalized convolution spectral mixture kernel (GCSM) with a different number of convolution structures and all spectral mixtures from different tasks are dependent. Furthermore, the proposed kernel uses inner and outer full cross convolution between base spectral mixtures, so that the base spectral mixtures in the tasks are not necessarily aligned. Extensive experiments on synthetic and real-life datasets illustrate the difference between MT-GCSM and other kernels as well as the practical effectiveness of MT-GCSM.

Traditional computer vision techniques aim to extract meaningful information from images but often depend on manual feature engineering, making it difficult to handle complex real-world scenarios. Fractional Calculus (FC), which extends derivatives to non-integer orders, provides a flexible way to model systems with memory effects and long-term dependencies, making it a powerful tool for capturing fractional rates of variation. Recently, Neural Networks (NNs) have demonstrated remarkable capabilities in learning complex patterns directly from raw data, automating computer vision tasks and enhancing performance. Therefore, the use of fractional calculus in neural network-based computer vision is a powerful method to address existing challenges by effectively capturing complex spatial and temporal relationships in images and videos. This paper presents a survey of Fractional Calculus Neural Network-based (FC NN-based) computer vision techniques for denoising, enhancement, object detection, segmentation, restoration, and NN compression. The survey compiles existing FFC NN-based approaches, elucidates underlying concepts, and identifies open questions and research directions. By leveraging FC's properties, FC NN-based approaches offer a novel way to improve the robustness and efficiency of computer vision systems.

A series of nanospherical shaped silicates containing heteroatoms (Al, Zr or Ti) were successfully synthesized using TEOS or silica colloids as silicon source. These metallosilicate nanospheres were used as silicon nutrients to obtain silicalite zeolites having micro-mesoporosity with improved textural properties. The results demonstrated that TEOS acted as a suitable silicon source to produce amorphous silicates and a spherical-type hierarchical zeolite architecture with Zr and Ti heteroatoms included in their framework, with preferable particle size and crystallinity. The surface functionality of the mesostructured nanospheres and zeolite silicates provide active centers for the esterification of glycerol with acetic acid (EG) reaction. Besides, the dispersion of Cu or Fe entities on the surface of the nanospherical silicates and zeolites provided good catalytic performances in the esterification of glycerol to valuable acetins.

Keywords: Biomass pyrolysis, Chemical Looping Combustion, Life Cycle Assessment, Environmental Impacts, Carbon Footprint.

(1) Background: Grapes and their associated by-products (as grape pomace, GP) stand out for their polyphenol content, which makes them a source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant capacity. The aim of this research was to determine if the inclusion of 50 g/kg of GP in the diet of hens could enrich egg with antioxidants and to study its effect on internal and external egg quality parameters. (2) Methods: A trial was conducted with two genetic lines of hens, which were fed either a control diet or a diet containing 50 g/kg of GP. Performance, internal and external egg quality, and egg yolk content of vitamins E and A, and gallic acid were determined; (3) Results: In eggs laid by hens fed GP diet, Haugh units and yolk colour score were enhanced, and eggshell became thinner, but without affecting the breaking strength. No dietary effect was observed on vitamin contents in yolk. Higher gallic acid content was observed in yolk of eggs laid by hens fed the GP diet, suggesting that some dietary phenolic compounds could be transferred to the eggs. Hen genetics influenced egg weight, albumen Haugh units, shell thickness and α- and γ-tocopherol concentration in yolks; (4) Conclusions: Dietary inclusion of GP improved the internal quality of eggs, enriching yolks with a phenolic compound, but reduced shell thickness.

This paper presents a quantum formulation for classical abstract dynamical systems (ADS), defined by coupled sets of first order differential equations. They are referred as “abstract” because their dynamical variables can be of different interrelated nature, not necessarily corresponding to physics, such as populations, socioeconomic variables, behavioural variables, etc. A first order classical Hamiltonian in canonical moments can be derived for ADS by using Dirac’s dynamics for singular Hamiltonian systems. And also a corresponding first order Schrödinger equation (which involves the existence of a system Planck constant particular of each system) can be derived from this Hamiltonian. However, Bohm and Hiley’s reinterpretation of quantum mechanics produces no further information about the mathematical formulation of ADS. However, a second order classical Hamiltonian in canonical moments can be also derived for ADS, as well as a corresponding second order Schrödinger equation. In this case, Bohm and Hiley’s reinterpretation of quantum mechanics provides a quantum Hamiltonian that does provide the quantum formulation for ADS, which provides new quantum variables interrelated dynamically with the classical variables. An application case is presented: the one-dimensional autonomous system given by the logistic dynamics, where the differences between the classical and the quantum trajectories are highlighted.

The gold deposits of the eastern region of Cuba are genetically related to the lithological formations of the island arc and the ophiolitic complex, which have been studied and exploited since the time of the Spanish colonization in the mid-sixteenth century. These deposits are part of the so-called Aguas Claras-Guajabales mineral field, in the Holguín Province (Cuba) and lie in an extensive elongated strip of approximately 15 km in length. The object of this work is to make an orderly, detailed, and chronological review of the geological and mining work carried out in this region as well as to highlight the degree of study achieved in each of the stages of research. To facilitate this work, an extensive bibliographic review of all available materials was planned and carried out, such as reports, manuals, monographs, and articles. The results obtained from this study highlight that gold mineralization is closely linked to metasomatic processes produced by the circulation of hydrothermal fluids that affected different lithologies of both the volcanic island arc and the ophiolitic complex, it is noteworthy that the highest gold contents are mainly where the lithologies contact each other. This highlights the fact that the presence of alterations such as serpentinization, listvenitization, rodingitization and propylitization have played a primary role in the deposition of gold during mineralization processes. This work could be a very useful guide for future research in this region, as it is an orderly, concrete, and practical compilation of the characteristics of the mineralization and alterations, as well as a precise indication of the spatial position, thicknesses, and contents of the gold horizons.

Injury to the peritoneum during surgery is followed by a healing process that frequently results in the attachment of adjacent organs by a fibrous mass, referred to commonly as adhesions. Because injuries to the peritoneum during surgery are inevitable, one must understand the mechanisms of adhesion formation to prevent its occurrence. This requires a thorough understanding of the molecular sequence that results in the attachment of injured peritoneum and the development of fibrous tissue. Recent data show that fibroblasts from the injured peritoneum may play a critical role in forming adhesion tissues. Therefore, identifying changes in gene expression patterns in the peritoneal fibroblasts during the process may provide clues to the mechanisms by which adhesion develops. This review presents many papers discussing genes implied in peritoneal adhesion.

An explanation of the origin of dark matter is suggested in this work. The argument is based on symmetry considerations about the concept of mass. In the Wigner's view, the rest mass and the spin of a free elementary particle in flat space-time are the two invariants that characterize the associated unitary irreducible representation of the Poincar\'e group. The Poincar\'e group has two and only two deformations with maximal symmetry. They describe respectively the de Sitter (dS) and Anti de Sitter (AdS) kinematic symmetries. Analogously to their shared flat space-time limit, two invariants, spin and energy scale for de Sitter and rest energy for Anti de Sitter, characterize the unitary irreducible representation associated with dS and AdS elementary systems. While the dS energy scale is a simple deformation of the Poincaré rest energy and so has a purely mass nature, AdS rest energy is the sum of a purely mass component and a kind of zero-point energy derived from the curvature. An analysis based on recent estimates on the chemical freeze-out temperature marking in Early Universe the phase transition quark-gluon plasma epoch to the hadron epoch supports the guess that dark matter energy might originate from an effective AdS curvature energy.

In the present study, we aimed to determine the antimicrobial resistance and genetic structure of a population of S. aureus recovered from transient and persistent intramammary infections and nares/muzzles. We investigated the antimicrobial resistance of 189 S. aureus strains using a broad antimicrobial susceptibility profile. Furthermore, 107 S. aureus isolates were strain-typed using staphylococcal protein-A (spa) typing. Here, a great proportion of strains exhibited multidrug resistance to antimicrobials, including resistance to critically important antimicrobials, although no methicillin-resistant S. aureus strains were found. Our study did not strengthen the idea that extramammary niches (i.e., nares/muzzles) are an important source for S. aureus. A discrepancy in the antimicrobial resistance between S. aureus strains isolated from nasal/muzzles and milk samples was observed. Furthermore, S. aureus isolates from transient and persistent IMIs did not differ by spa typing, suggesting that the persistence of bovine IMIs was determined by cow factors. Thus, the high level of multidrug-resistant S. aureus found in the two herds studied together with the predominance of a well udder-adapted S. aureus strain may contribute to the history of the high prevalence of mastitis caused by S. aureus, leading to great animal and public health concerns.

This study aimed to evaluate the physico-chemical properties, biocompatibility and bioabsorption of 3 different new membranes for bone guided regeneration (PLGA associated with hydroxyapatite and beta-TCP) with three thicknesses (200, 500 and 700 µm) implanted in mice subcutaneously. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and the quantification of Carbon, Hidrogen and Nitrogen were used to characterize the physico-chemical properties. One hundred Balb-C mice were divided into 5 experimental groups: Group 1 - Sham (without implantation); Group 2 - 200 μm; Group 3 - 500 μm; Group 4 - 700 μm; and Group 5 - Pratix®. Each group was subdivided into four experimental periods (7, 30, 60 and 90 days). Samples were collected and processed for histological and histomorphometrical evaluation. The membranes showed no moderate or severe tissue reactions in the experimental periods studied. The 500 μm membrane did not show tissue reaction for any experimental periods studied. The 200 μm membrane membranes began to exhibit fragmentation after 30- day, while the 500 and 700 µm membranes started the fragmentation at 90-day. All membranes studied were biocompatible, and the 500µm membrane showed the best results being a promissory membrane for bone guided regeneration.

Changes in land-use have been observed in banana-based systems in the African Great Lakes region affected by Xanthomonas wilt disease (XW) of banana. Through participatory focus group discussions (FGDs) and the 4-cell method, changes in land-use were retrospectively assessed in 13 XW-affected landscapes/villages along a 230 km transect from Masisi (XW arrived in 2001) to Bukavu (XW arrived around 2014) in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo during 2015. The four-cell chart ranked land-use by mapping the area under production and the number of households involved in production. Farmers’ perceptions on the sustainability of new land-uses were also documented. Soil nutrient content and erosion levels were measured for five major land-use options/ trajectories on 147 fields across 55 farms in three landscapes along the transect. From being ranked the most important crop (92% of landscapes i.e. produced on large areas of land and by many households) before XW outbreaks, its importance had declined with most households in 36% of the landscapes growing it on smaller farms while in 64% of cases by few households on smaller pots. Farmers uprooted entire banana mats or fields, expanding land under other crops, mainly beans, taro, sweet potato, cassava, maize, coffee and eucalyptus. Species richness did not change at landscape level, though 21 crops were introduced at farm level. Land-use for banana is however still perceived to be more sustainable due to its multi-functional roles. Soils under banana plots were found in general to be better in their chemical attributes while high erosion levels (Mg ha-1 year-1) were observed under cassava (1.7-148.9) compared with banana (0.3-10.7) and trees (0.3-5.9). The current shift away from banana could thus have profound effects on supply of key services and sustainability of the production systems. This study offers a good basis/entry point for interventions in the XW-affected landscapes.

This paper presents a statistical approach to identify the underlying roughness characteristics in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) intensity data. The physical modeling of this kind of data allows the use of the Gamma distribution in the presence of fully-developed speckle, i.e., when there are infinitely many independent backscatterers per resolution cell, and none dominates the return. Such areas are often called ``homogeneous'' or ``textureless'' regions. The GI0 distribution is also a widely accepted law for heterogeneous and extremely heterogeneous regions, i.e., areas where the fully-developed speckle hypotheses do not hold. We propose three test statistics to distinguish between homogeneous and inhomogeneous regions, i.e., between gamma and GI0 distributed data, both with a known number of looks. The first test statistic uses a bootstrapped non-parametric estimator of Shannon entropy, providing a robust assessment in uncertain distributional assumptions. The second test uses the classical coefficient of variation (CV). The third test uses an alternative form of estimating the CV based on the ratio of the mean absolute deviation from the median to the median. We apply our test statistic to create maps of \(p\)-values for the homogeneity hypothesis. Finally, we show that our proposal, the entropy-based test, outperforms existing methods, such as the classical CV and its alternative variant, in identifying heterogeneity when applied to both simulated and actual data.

This study aimed to assess the response of 3D printed PLA scaffolds biomimetically coated with apatite on human primary osteoblast spheroids and evaluate the biological response to its association with Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (rhBMP-2) in rat calvaria. PLA scaffolds were produced via 3D printing, soaked in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution, and characterized by physical-chemical, morphological, and mechanical properties. The in vitro biological response was assessed with human primary osteoblast (HOb) spheroids. The in vivo analysis was conducted through the implantation of 3D printed PLA scaffolds either alone, covered by apatite (PLA-CaP) or PLA-CaP loaded with rhBMP-2 (PLA-CaP+rhBMP-2) on critical-sized defects (8 mm) of rat calvaria. Increased cell adhesion and in vitro release of growth factors (PDGF, bFGF, VEGF) was observed for PLA-CaP scaffolds when pre-treated with FBS. PLA-CaP+BMP2 presented higher values of newly formed bone (NFB) than other groups at all experimental periods (p&lt;0.05), attaining 44.85% of NFB after 6 months. These findings indicate that functionalization of PLA scaffolds with biomimetic apatite can improve its biological properties in the presence of complex biological media. Its association with BMP2 may enhance bone repair, suggesting this strategy as a promising candidate for bone tissue engineering.

The rapid urban expansion requires an effective management of water resources in small basins, where data are often limited. This article addresses a combination of an empirical hydrological model and Steven Method, a flow extrapolation method that considers the morphological char-acteristics of the cross-section. It also proposes an approach for overcoming the challenges asso-ciated with the lack of information on small water basins in rural to urban transition. A rain-fall event occurred in Pau de Caixeta stream basin (33,7 km²), in the Federal District (DF), in De-cember 2022, was evaluated. The simulation was carried out on the decision support system, Analysis of Complex Basins (ABC), using the rainfall registred by the rain gauge instaled within the monitered area with 3 hours duration and 38 mm of total rainfall, in addiction to the mor-phological and hydraulics characteristics of the study section. The basin presented in this study, has a classification regarding land use: i) urban area: horizontal and vertical residential neigh-borhoods (in the study phase) and rapidly expanding urban infrastructure, ii) rural areas and iii) environmental preservation areas. The results were within the acceptable range of flow extrap-olation errors (16%), indicating the integration of the proposed approaches can guide the devel-opment of impact mitigation strategies and promote sustainable practices in sub-basins.

β-Ga2O3 is a well-known semiconductor material for power devices and other applications. Recently, β-Ga2O3 has also been reported as a scintillator material with a light yield of approximately 8400 ph./MeV, scintillation decay time of &lt;1 μs, and density of 6.44 g/cm3. In this study, 2-inch diameter β-Ga2O3 single crystals were prepared by oxide crystal growth using the cold crucible (OCCC) method under various oxygen partial pressures. In the OCCC method, as in the cold crucible method, a high frequency is applied directly to the oxide materials, which are heated and melted, and the melt is held by the outermost solid material itself that is cooled by water using a copper hearth. In the OCCC method, crystal growth is performed while rotating the seed crystal, as in the Czochralski method, to increase the crystal diameter. The optical properties and radiation responses of the crystals grown under various oxygen partial pressures were evaluated.

Wearable Biosensor Technology (WBT) has emerged as a transformative tool in the educational system over the past decade. This systematic review encompasses a comprehensive analysis of WBT utilization in educational settings over a 10-year span (2012-2022), highlighting both the evolution of this field and its integration to address challenges in education by integrating technology to solve specific educational challenges, such as enhancing student engagement, monitoring stress and cognitive load, improving learning experiences, and providing real-time feedback for both students and educators. By exploring these aspects, the review sheds light on the potential implications of WBT for the future of learning. A rigorous and systematic search of major academic databases, including Google Scholar and Scopus, was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Relevant studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The articles selected were assessed for methodological quality and bias using established tools. The process of data extraction and synthesis followed a structured framework. Key findings include the shift from theoretical exploration to practical implementation with the EEG being the predominant measurement, aiming to explore mental states, physiological constructs, and teaching effectiveness. Wearable biosensors are significantly impacting the educational field, serving as an important resource for educators and a tool for students. Their application has the potential to transform and optimize academic practices through sensors that capture biometric data, enabling the implementation of metrics and models to understand the development and performance of students and professors in an academic environment, as well as to gain insights into the learning process.

In this paper, we present a new concept of the generalized core orthogonality (called the C-S orthogonality) for two generalized core invertible matrices $A$ and $B$. $A$ is said to be C-S orthogonal to $B$ if $A^{\tiny\textcircled{S}}B=0$ and $BA^{\tiny\textcircled{S}}=0$, where $A^{\tiny\textcircled{S}}$ is the generalized core inverse of $A$. The characterizations of C-S orthogonal matries and the C-S additivity are also provided. And the connection between the C-S orthogonality and C-S partial order has been given using their canonical form. Moreover, the concept of the strongly C-S orthogonality is defined and characterized.

Since the discovery of transposable elements (TEs) in Maize in the 1940s by Barbara McClintock [1] transposable elements have been described as junk, as selfish elements with no benefit to the host, and more recently as major determinants of genome structure and genome evolution. TEs are DNA sequences that are capable of moving to new sites in the genome and make additional copies while doing so. To limit the propagation of TEs, host silencing mechanisms are directed at transposon-encoded genes that are required for mobilization. The mutagenic properties of TEs, the potential of TEs to form new genes and affect gene expression, together with the host silencing mechanisms shape eukaryotic genomes and drive genome evolution. While TEs constitute more than half of the genome in many higher eukaryotes, transposable elements in the nematode C. ele-gans form a relatively small proportion of genome, about 15% [2]. Genetic studies of transposon silencing and the discovery of RNAi in C. elegans, propelled C. elegans to the forefront of studies of RNA-based mechanisms that silence TEs. Here, I will review the transposable elements that are present and active in the C. elegans genome, and the host defense mechanisms that silence these elements.

The present article describes the synthesis of an isonicotinate-derived meso-arylporphyrin, that has been fully characterized by spectroscopic methods (including fluorescence spectroscopy), as well as by elemental analysis and by HR-MS. The structure of a n-hexane monosolvate has been determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The radical scavenging activity of this new porphyrin against the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DDPH) radical has been measured. Its antifungal activity against three yeast strains (C. albicans ATCC 90028, C. glabrata ATCC 64677 and C. tropicalis ATCC 64677) has been tested, using the disk diffusion and the microdilution methods. Whereas the measured antioxidant activity was low, the porphyrin showed moderate but encouraging antifungal activity. Finally, a study of its effect on the germination of lentil seeds revealed interesting allelopathic properties.

Mobile applications, websites and social media networks are nowadays widely used communication tools. With the emergence of communication-related technologies in our lives and, consequently, the rise of social networks and mobile applications, health-related applications, generically encompassed under the term digital health, have become popular among the population. Smartphones and artificial intelligence have become very useful tools for health-related interventions. Because they are very accessible and cost-effective. They are also able to serve a larger number of communities than traditional interventions. Nutrition is not a field that has remained on the sidelines, and numerous mobile applications and technological tools have emerged that are intended to help and support diets or in the process of recovering from disease. However, many of these applications have limitations that are important to consider. For this reason, the aim of this review was to analyze the most widely used tools currently in use, discuss their advantages and disadvantages, and propose hypotheses for improvement.

The high flammability and lack of charrability of polystyrene (PS) pose significant limitations on its broader applications. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a straightforward and efficient method for the synthesis of flame-retardant PS, which still poses a considerable challenge. In this study, we present an efficient approach to enhance the flame-retardant properties of PS through direct phosphorylating aromatic C(sp2)-H bonds using commercially available and inexpensive manganese catalyst. A range of phosphonates served as reactive substrates to enable a tunable degree of polymer functionalization. The corresponding phosphorylated PS specimens were determined by means of 1H NMR, 31P NMR, FTIR spectroscopy and GPC. Microscale combustion calorimetry (MCC) tests indicate that this protocol indeed enhances the flame-retardant performance of PS. Moreover, other advantages associated with the incorporation of the phosphonate group have been observed, including improved thermal resistance and wettability. This cost-effective strategy of Mn-catalyzed C-H can also be utilized to directly obtain phosphonate modification of waste foamed PS and styrene acrylonitrile copolymer, providing a new method for the purpose of recycling and upgrading PS plastics.

Climate change related increases in frequency and intensity of heatwaves affect viticulture, leading to losses in yield and grape quality. We assessed whether canopy architecture manipulation mitigates the effects of summer stress in a Mediterranean vineyard. Muscat of Alexandria grapevines were monitored during 2019-2020. Two canopy shoot positioning treatments were applied: Vertical shoot positioning (VSP); and Modulated shoot positioning (MSP), the west side upper foliage released to promote partial shoot leaning, shading the clusters. Clusters were sampled at pea size (PS), veraison (VER) and full maturation (FM). Measurements included rachis anatomy and hydraulic conductance, and aquaporins (AQP) and stress-related genes expression in cluster tissues. Results show significant seasonal and interannual differences in Kh and vascular anatomy. At VER, Krachis , Krachis+pedicels, and xylem diameter decreased but were unaffected by treatments. The Phloem/Xylem ratio was either increased (2019) or reduced (2020) in MSP, compared to VSP. Most AQP were down-regulated at FM in pedicels, and up-regulated at VER in pulp. A potential maturation shift in MSP was observed, confirmed by the up-regulation of several stress-related genes in all tissues. The study pinpoints the role of canopy architecture in berry water relations and stress response during ripening.

1) Background: Spirulina (Arthrospira) maxima has shown beneficial effects such anti-dyslipidemic, antiviral, antioxidant and antihypertensive. However, there are few and limited clinical studies. 2) Methods: a prospective, randomized, parallel pilot study of 4.5 g administration of Spirulina maxima or placebo for 12 weeks in 16 patients with systemic arterial hypertension undergoing treatment with ACE inhibitors was performed to assess the effects on endothelial damage and oxidative stress indicators. The blood levels of sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, endothelin-1, and sE-selectin were quantified; the activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and concentrations of reduced glutathione, oxidized glutathione, and thiobarbituric acid reactive susbtances, were also quantified before and after the treatment period. 3) Results: There were statistically significant (p < 0.05) decreases in systolic blood pressure, sVCAM-1, sE-selectin and endothelin-1 levels, and increases in glutathione peroxidase activity and oxidized glutathione levels. 4) Conclusion: The effects found in the present study agree with antihypertensive and antioxidant effects previously reported for Spirulina maxima. However, this is the first report about the effects on indicators of endothelial damage. More research in this field is necessary to gain an insight into the effects of Spirulina on these indicators.

For the last two decades, an increasing demand for low-cost adsorbents for drinking water treatment has been challenged in the rural areas of developing countries that have problems with arsenic (As) contamination. In this work, spent bleaching earth (SBE), a residual material that is formed during the process of refining vegetable oil, has been utilized to prepare the new magnetic adsorbent Fe-SBE/C by modifying its surface area through calcination and co-precipitation with iron. The experimental results demonstrate that Fe-SBE/C exhibits a substantial adsorption capacity towards both arsenite (As(III)) and arsenate (As(V)). Optimal pH conditions were found to be pH 10 for As(III) and pH 3 for As(V), resulting in adsorption percentages of 76.7% and 94.1%, respectively. Other experimental parameters such as calcination conditions, adsorbent dosage, iron-loading ratio, and the presence of co-existing ions were thoroughly investigated. The kinetic study revealed that the adsorption processes follow the Elovich and intraparticle diffusion models, suggesting a combined adsorption mechanism of boundary layer control and chemisorption. Furthermore, the isotherm followed the Langmuir model with a maximum adsorption capacity of 202.61 μg g-1 for As(III) and 187.61 μg g-1 for As(V). Through thermodynamic analysis and reinforcement by activation energy data, this research validates that the observed adsorption process is indicative through chemisorption. The regeneration study revealed the potential for multiple cycles of arsenic removal, highlighting the practical applicability of Fe-SBE/C in environmental contexts. In conclusion, the findings of this study underscore the efficacy of Fe-SBE/C in arsenic removal and present it as a promising and environmentally friendly solution for mitigating arsenic pollution.

This study analyzed the relationship between anthropometric measures, cardiorespiratory capacity, strength, power and local muscle endurance with performance in the CrossFit® Open 2020. For this, 17 volunteers (6 women) (29.0 ± 7.2 years; 70.5 ± 9.8 kg) completed, on separate weeks, body composition (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry), maximal oxygen consumption (2km row test), muscle strength (1RM back and front squat, isometric peak torque), and muscle power (1RM snatch and clean &amp; jerk), and muscle endurance (Tibana test), which were compared with performance during the CrossFit® Open 2020. Multiple linear regression showed that for the CrossFit Open 2020.1 and 2020.2 workouts, the score in the Tibana test was the only variable that explained the outcomes (Beta = -0.78, p &lt; 0.01 for 2020.1 workout and Beta = 0.82, p &lt; 0.01 for 2020.2 workout). Performance in the CrossFit Open 2020.3 and 2020.4 workouts were explained through the relative strength (Beta = 0.58, p = 0.02 for 2020.3 workout and Beta = 0.50, p = 0.04 for 2020.4 workout). Lastly, Tibana test had the greatest influence on CrossFit Open 2020.5 workout (Beta = -0.75, p &lt; 0.01). A local muscle endurance and muscle strength may be used to predict CrossFit® open workout performance.

As the global population faces an increasing prevalence of physical disabilities, the challenge of motor rehabilitation has become increasingly urgent. Considering that approximately 15% of the global population lives with some form of disability, with a significant number having motor disa-bilities that greatly impact their quality of life, the integration of robotic technologies into rehabili-tation processes offers an opportunity for significant improvement in functional recovery and pa-tient autonomy. This analysis aims to evaluate the progress and challenges encountered in imple-menting robotic technology for the rehabilitation of patients with physical disabilities, highlighting the potential of emerging technologies such as exoskeletons, assisted training devices, and brain-computer interface systems in facilitating motor recovery. By examining relevant clinical studies, the analysis demonstrates the varied effectiveness of robotic therapies compared to traditional re-habilitation methods, while also highlighting the need for ongoing research to optimize care prac-tices and address challenges related to cost, accessibility, and treatment personalization. In con-clusion, robotic technologies represent a promising direction in motor rehabilitation, with the po-tential to revolutionize the care of patients with physical disabilities, significantly improving quali-ty of life and social integration.

Background and Objectives: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly prevalent world-wide. It progresses from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Fibrosis is often present during NAFLD progression; however, factors determining which subjects develop NASH or fibrosis are unclear. Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBP) is a family of secreted proteins involved in senescence and scarring mainly synthetized in the liver. Here we aimed to study the association of IGFBP and its induced senescence with the progression of NAFLD and liver fibrosis. Materials and Methods: 16 weeks old male C57BL/6 mice weighing 23 ± 3 g were fed either Methionine-Choline Deficient or control diet for 2, 8 or 12 weeks. Blood and liver samples were collected; histological assessment of NAFLD and fibrosis was performed. Fat contents were measured. Cellular senescence was evaluated in the liver. IGFBP levels were assessed in liver and serum. Data was expressed as Mean ± SD and analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed Tukey’s test. Lineal regression models were applied for NAFLD and fibrosis progression. p

This review delves into using natural antimicrobials in the dairy industry and examines various sources of these compounds, including microbial, plant, and animal sources. It highlights dairy products' most commonly used natural antimicrobials, such as nisin, lysozyme, lactoferrin, chitosan, and essential oils. It discusses the mechanisms by which they inhibit microbial growth and improve the shelf life of dairy products. Moreover, the review explores encapsulation technology as a promising approach for increasing the viability of natural antimicrobials. It discusses how encapsulation technology can protect these compounds from environmental factors that can reduce their effectiveness, such as pH, temperature, and oxygen exposure. The review also highlights the different materials that can be used for encapsulation, such as alginate, chitosan, and starch, and discusses their properties and suitability for encapsulating different natural antimicrobials. Finally, the review examines the benefits and challenges of using natural antimicrobials in dairy products. While natural antimicrobials offer several advantages, including improved safety, quality, and sensory properties of dairy products, it's crucial to be aware of the challenges associated with their use, such as potential allergenicity, regulatory requirements, and consumer perception. The review concludes by emphasizing the need for further research to identify and develop effective and safe natural antimicrobials for the dairy industry to ensure the quality and safety of dairy products for consumers.

L-Theanine, a unique non-protein amino acid, is an important bioactive component of green tea. Previous studies have shown that L-theanine has many potent health benefits, such as anti-anxiety effect, regulation of immune response, relaxing neural tension, reducing oxidative damage. However, little is known concerning whether L-theanine can improve the clearance of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage in organisms. Here, we reported that L-theanine treatment increased ATP production and improved mitochondrial morphology to extend the lifespan of UVC-exposed nematodes. Mechanistic investigations showed that L-theanine treatment enhanced the removal of mtDNA damage and extended lifespan by activating autophagy, mitophagy, mitochondrial dynamics, and mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) in UVC-exposed nematodes. In addition, L-theanine treatment also up-regulated the expression of genes related to mitochondrial energy metabolism in UVC-exposed nematodes. Our study provided a theoretical basis for the possibility that tea drinking may prevent mitochondrial related diseases.

As a form of protection, a nature park is often created to protect and valorise natural and cultural heritage in peripheral rural areas. However, in terms of multi-functionality, new nature parks are incorporated into traditional productive activities, such as recreational and tourist activities, which sometimes compromise sustainability. The research objective is to study the relationship between tourism and sustainability in the Nature Parks of “Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche”, “Sierra Norte de Sevilla” and “Sierra de Hornachuelos” that makes up the Dehesas de Sierra Morena Biosphere Reserve in Andalusia, Spain. Therefore, selective interviews have been carried out with the stakeholders to establish their perception of sustainable tourism and the presence of dominant discourses. The main conclusions indicate (1) the presence of different dominant discourses on sustainability, namely the conservationist and mercantilist ones, with the prevalence of the economic dimension; (2) poor awareness and adaptation to the context of global change; and (3) the presence of competitive relationships that generate difficulties for the governance of sustainable tourism.

Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) is an important cytokine in host defense against tuberculosis infection. In some cases, administration of IFN-γ during tuberculosis infection can promote faster cure. In the present work, we have shown that in a mouse model, human interferon-gamma, exhibits some anti-tuberculosis activity, especially in combination with isoniazid.

Archaeometry can help archaeologists in multiple instances, one of the common archaeometric goals are the provenance analyses. Volcanic stones appear frequently in archaeological sites as materials used to build grinding tools like millstones and mortars or as building materials. Petrographic characterization is commonly applied to identify their main mineralogical components. However, provenance of volcanic stones is usually undertaken by comparison with geochemical data from reference outcrops using common descriptive statistical tools such as biplots of chemical elements, and unsupervised multivariate data analysis like principal component analysis (PCA). Recently, the use of supervised classification methods has shown a superior performance in assigning provenance to archaeological samples. However, these methods require the use of reference databases for every possibly provenance class to be able to train the used classification algorithms. The existence of comprehensive collections of published geochemical analyses of igneous rocks enables the use of the supervised approach for provenance determination of volcanic stones. In this paper, the provenance of volcanic grinding tools from two archaeological sites (Iulia Libica, Spain and Sidi Zahruni, Tunisia) is attempted using data from the GEOROC Database through unsupervised and supervised approaches.

Cement production contributes to about 7% of CO2 emissions into the atmosphere. Despite our best efforts, we cannot find a competitive substitute that is both reliable and environmentally friendly. The simplest way to solve the problem is to rationalize the resources and try to minimize its use by substitute them with other materials. A concrete that contains a substantial amount of fly ash is already available, but its use is limited by the current shortage in the market and reduced initial resistance. In this context, ternary mixtures have been used to conduct an experiment. A significant volume of cement has been replaced with fly ash and metakaolin, which serves as a correction factor for the performance. In this work the main advantages and disadvantages of the simultaneous use of these two additions, which may reveal to be very interesting with high volumes of substitution will be presented. The performance of this ternary mixture is very promising. Provide a wide range of possibilities for replacing cement, maintaining or even improving its mechanical and durability properties. A solution for an ecological concrete with enhanced performance for general use in construction as an alternative to conventional concrete.

Most Neotropical Psittacidae have a diploid number of 2n=70, and a dichotomy in chromosome patterns. Long-tailed species have biarmed macrochromosomes, while short - tailed ones have telo/acrocentric macrochromosomes. However, the use of chromosome painting with chicken and white hawk probes has demonstrated that karyotype evolution in Psittacidae includes a high number of inter/intrachromosomal rearrangements. Hence, to determine the phylogeny of Long and Short-Tailed species, and to propose a putative ancestral karyotype for this group, we constructed homology maps of Pyrrhura frontalis (PFR) and Amazona aestiva (AAE) and compared them to other previously analyzed long-tailed species. Chromosomes were analyzed by conventional staining and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) using whole chromosome paints of G. gallus (GGA) and L. albicollis (LAL). Conventional staining showed a karyotype with 2n=70 in both species, with biarmed macrochromosomes in Pyrrhura frontalis and telo/acrocentric chromosomes in Amazona aestiva. Comparison of the results with the putative avian ancestral karyotype (PAK) showed fusions in P. frontalis of PAK1p/PAK4q (PFR1) and PAK6/PAK7 (PFR6) with a paracentric inversion in PFR6. However, in A. aestiva there was only the fusion between PAK6/7 (AAE7) with a paracentric inversion. Hybridizations with LAL probes confirmed these results. The results indicate that PFR retained a more basal karyotype than Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus (AHY), Ara macao (AMA) and Ara chloropterus (ACH), because these three species show the fusion PAK8/PAK9 that is not seen in PFR. Hence, we suggest that the ancestral karyotype of species with biarmed chromosomes have the fusions PAK1p/PAK4 and PAK6/PAK7 and, additionally, a pericentric inversion of PAK6/PAK7, while the fusion PAK8/PAK9 would have appeared in the common ancestor of Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus, Ara macao and Ara chloropterus. However, the species A. aestiva shows a characteristic plesiomorphic trait, since PAK1p/PAK4q and PAK8/9 fusions are absent. Our results base on chromosome rearrangements suggest the classification following the criterium of tail length may no reflect the real phylogenetic history of Neotropical Psittacidae.

Biological neural network (BNN) is the core brain for creature to accomplish its intelligent behaviors through unique network structure and mechanisms. It also inspires controlling human-designed autonomous agents including robots to generate more advanced intelligent behaviors by mimicking the neural control mechanism of creatures at a deeper and more interactive level. Here, we constructed a whole-brain neural network model of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), which characterizes the electrochemical processes at the level of cellular synapse. The neural network simulation integrates computational programming and visualization of neurons and synapse connections of C. elegans, containing the specific controllable circuits summarization with their dynamic characteristics within the whole network. To illustrate its particular intelligent control capability in terms of robotics, we introduce the first innovative methodology for applying the BNN model to a 12-legged robot’s movement control based on the established numerical simulation platforms. We accomplished and designed two methods and corresponding encoding processes, one involving orientation control and the other involving locomotion generation, to demonstrate the intelligent control performance of BNN. Both simulation and experiment results indicate that the robot exhibits stronger autonomy and more intelligent moving performance under the control of BNN. We then summarized the contributions for digitalizing the C. elegans’ whole-brain neural network in real-time and utilizing it to control robot in a closed loop to validate its advanced intelligence control ability in terms of a scientific robot.

An H-bond involves the sharing of a hydrogen atom between an electronegative atom to which it is covalently bound (the donor) and another electronegative atom serving as an electron acceptor. Such bonds represent a critically important geometrical force in biological macromolecules and, as such, have been characterized extensively. H-bond formation invariably leads to a weakening within the acceptor moiety due to the pulling exerted by the donor hydrogen. This phenomenon can be compared to a spring connecting two masses; pulling one mass stretches the spring, similarly affecting the bond between the two masses. Herein, we describe the opposite phenomenon when investigating the energetics of the C-H...O=C bond. This bond underpins the most prevalent protein transmembrane dimerization motif (GxxxG) in which a glycine C-H on one helix forms a hydrogen bond with a carbonyl in a nearby helix. We use isotope-edited FT-IR spectroscopy and corroborating computational approaches to demonstrate a surprising strengthening of the acceptor C=O bond upon binding with the glycine C-H. We show that electronic factors associated with the C-H bond strengthen the C=O oscillator by increasing the s-character of the -bond, lowering the hyperconjugative disruption of the -bond. In addition, a reduction of the acceptor C=O bond’s polarity is observed upon the formation of the C-H...O=C bond. Our findings challenge the conventional understanding of H-bond dynamics and provide new insights into the structural stability of inter-helical protein interactions.

We discuss the consequences of the unique symmetry of the de Sitter spacetime. This symmetry leads to the specific thermodynamic properties of the de Sitter vacuum, which produces the thermal bath for matter. The de Sitter spacetime is invariant under the modified translations, ${\bf r}\rightarrow {\bf r} -e^{Ht}{\bf a}$, where $H$ is the Hubble parameter. For $H\rightarrow 0$, this symmetry corresponds to the conventional invariance of Minkowski spacetime under translations ${\bf r}\rightarrow {\bf r} -{\bf a}$. Due to this symmetry, all the comoving observers at any point of the de Sitter space perceive the de Sitter environment as the thermal bath with temperature $T=H/\pi$, which is twice larger than the Gibbons-Hawking temperature of the cosmological horizon. This temperature does not violate the de Sitter symmetry, and thus does not require the preferred reference frame, as distinct from thermal state of matter, which violates the de Sitter symmetry. This leads to the heat exchange between gravity and matter, and to instability of de Sitter state towards the creation of matter, its further heating, and finally to the decay of the de Sitter state. The temperature $T=H/\pi$ determines different processes in the de Sitter environment, which are not possible in the Minkowski vacuum, such as the process of ionization of an atom in the de Sitter environment. This temperature also determines the local entropy of the de Sitter vacuum state, and this allows us to calculate the total entropy inside the cosmological horizon. The result reproduces the Gibbons-Hawking area law, which is related to the cosmological horizon, $S_{\rm hor}=4\pi KA$, where $K=1/16\pi G$. This supports the holographic properties of the cosmological event horizon. We extend the consideration of the local thermodynamics of the de Sitter state using the $f({\cal R})$ gravity. In this thermodynamics, the Ricci scalar curvature ${\cal R}$ and the effective gravitational coupling, $K$, are thermodynamically conjugate variables. The holographic connection between the bulk entropy of the Hubble volume, and the surface entropy of the cosmological horizon remains the same, but with the gravitational coupling $K=df/d{\cal R}$. Such connection takes place only in the $3+1$ spacetime, where there is the special symmetry due to which the variables $K$ and ${\cal R}$ have the same dimensionality. We also consider the lessons from the de Sitter symmetry for the thermodynamics of black and white holes.

Van Wyk Grumbach syndrome refers to the development of peripheral precocious puberty, long-standing hypothyroidism, and gonadal masses; when not diagnosed, an unnecessary gonadectomy may be done; Here we present a case of a 10-year-old girl with Down syndrome, short stature, and vitiligo presented with vaginal bleeding, and a pelvic mass, in whom bilateral gonadectomy was performed. Most cases of Van Wyk Grumbach syndrome present in women, and classic hypothyroidism symptoms always precede the diagnosis; 11% of patients have Down Syndrome, sometimes tumor markers get elevated, and some develop severe symptoms (myopathy, short stature, mental delay, ascites, pericardial effusion, Cullen sign, pituitary hyperplasia, and severe anemia), that respond to levothyroxine treatment; Conclusions: Children with peripheral precocious puberty and gonadal masses, must be studied for hypothyroidism before any radical decision is made. Keywords: Puberty, Precocious; Ovarian Cysts, gonadectomy, Van Wyk Grumbach Syndrome

Despite past efforts towards therapeutical innovation, cancer remains a highly incident and lethal disease, with current treatments many times lacking efficiency and leading to severe side-effects. Hence, it is imperative to develop new, more efficient, and safer therapies. Bee venom has proven to have multiple and synergistic bioactivities, including antitumor effects. Nevertheless, some toxic effects have been associated with its administration. To tackle these issues, in this work, bee venom-loaded niosomes were developed, for cancer treatment. The vesicles had a small (150.4 ± 3.7 nm) and homogeneous (PDI of 0.162 ± 0.008) particle size, and revealed good therapeutic efficacy in in vitro gastric, colorectal, breast, lung, and cervical cancer models, with GI50 values between 12.37 ng/mL and 14.72 ng/mL. Additionally, they also revealed substantial anti-inflammatory activity, with an IC50 of 28.98 ng/mL, effects that have been reported to be complementary to direct antitumor activity. Finally, the niosomes' safety was assessed, both in vitro, on skin, liver and kidney cells, and ex vivo, in a HET-CAM assay, and results showed that compound encapsulation increased its safety. Hence, small and homogeneous bee venom-loaded niosomes were successfully developed, with substantial anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects, making them potentially promising primary or adjuvant cancer therapies.

Native strains of Trichoderma, isolated from mangrove sediments of PE, Brazil were determining their morphological and molecular characterization, and were investigated to assess of their biocontrol potential over the phytopathogenic Fusarium strains isolated from Caatinga soil, PE, Brazil. The Trichoderma strains were characterized by polyphasic approach, which combined their morphological characteristics, macro- and microculture results, growth evaluation by Tukey test, with significance of 5%. The DNA was extracted and the product was amplified with primers ITS 1 and 2, and sequenced. Trichoderma strains were compatible morphologically with the description of the genus. The molecular identification of Trichoderma, sequences of 500 bp were amplified, deposited in GenBank and used for phylogenetic analysis. The growth rate analysis showed rate of 0.1207 cm^h-1 to Trichoderma strains and Fusarium spp. lower growth rate (0.031 cm^h-1) was observed. The antibiosis tests showed the best antagonistic level of effectiveness to T. asperellum UCP 0149 against F. solani UCP 1395(82.2%) and F. solani UCP 1075(70.0%), followed of T. asperellum UCP 0319 against F. solani UCP1083 (73.4%), and T. asperellum UCP 0168 against F. solani UCP1098 (71.5%), respectively. The data obtained could serve as the basis for developing several biotechnological processes of safe use.

Darier disease (DD) is an autosomal dominant disorder due to mutation of ATP2A2 gene causing an isolated skin manifestation based on keratinocyte disconnection and apoptosis. Systemic manifestations of DD have not been demonstrated so far although a high incidence of neuropsychiatric syndromes suggest an involvement of central nervous system. A Novel ATP2A2 Gene Mutation c.118G>A, causing keratinocyte and cardiomyocyte disconnection in Darier disease, is reported. Their common pathologic pathway, still unreported, was documented by both skin and left ventricular endomyocardial biopsy because of cardiac dilatation and dysfunction appeared several decades after skin manifestations.Keratinocyte disconnection was paralleled by cardiomyocyte separation at lateral junction. Cardiomyocyte separation was associated to cell disarray, sarcoplasmic reticulum dilatation and increased myocyte apoptosis. Clinically, hyperkeratotic skin papules were associated to chest pain, severe muscle exhaustion and ventricular arrhythmias that improved following administration of aminophylline, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor enhancing SERCA2 protein phosphorylation.Specific mutations of ATP2A2 gene may cause cardiac involvement in patients with DD. Cardiac pathologic changes are similar to those documented in the skin including cardiomyocyte disconnection that promotes precordial pain and cardiac arrhythmias. Phosphodiesterase inhibitors, enhancing SERCA2 protein phosphorylation may substantially attenuate the symptoms.

Background: This study aimed to investigate the association between the internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), in particular the severity of disc displacement (DD), and the presence of generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) in growing patients evaluated on magnetic resonance images (MRI). The study also investigated the relationship between the stages of DD severity and age. Methods: This cross-sectional study has been conducted on a pre-orthodontic population (8-16 years). The GJH was assessed with the Beighton test (cutoff ≥ 4) and the final sample of 56 patients was divided into two groups: a Study Group, 30 subjects with GJH, and a Control Group, 26 subjects without GJH. The disc position was evaluated on MRI and the severity of DD was classified in four stages. Pearson's χ2 Test was performed for the analysis of the statistical correlation. Results: A statistically significant relationship between GJH and disc position was found, in particular a disc displacement with reduction (DDwR) and DD severity. It also emerged a positive association between the severity of DD and age, that increased with increasing age. Conclusions: Growing patients with GJH have a higher risk of developing DD and with more severe stages. The risk of developing DD and the severity increases with increasing age.

In the last decade, three-dimensional (3D) printing has allowed the field of complex microfluidic channels to expand rapidly towards channels with variable cross-sections (i.e., beyond simple rounded media with a constant diameter) and channels. Whose trajectory can be outside a single plane and has gained numerous macro- and nanoscale manufacturing advances. Three-dimensional printing is being explored for various biomedical applications and the fabrication of nanomedicines using additive manufacturing techniques. Employing 3D-printed templates for macro-to-micro interfacing, a passively operated microfluidic device was designed. The research seeks to fabricate a biodevice that enables insulin microdosing, creating a subsystem like a microvalve and a microchannel matrix using additive manufacturing techniques. Our systems feature designs that enhance fluid dynamics without affecting the stability of the insulin. We propose using Humalog insulin in tropical climates (up to 30°C) without refrigeration for 28 days. The microvalve has a spiral trajectory with four outlet channels distributed along it. These channels align with the microchannels organized in a 10 mm x 15 mm matrix with 25 microchannels, each with a 770 µm internal diameter. The system delivers a dose of 2,3 mL in 6 minutes. We designed these systems for insulin micro-dosing, but they can also serve similar devices for other drugs.

The digital transformation of critical infrastructures, such as energy or water distribution systems, is essential for their smart management. Faster issue identification and smoother services enable better adaptation to consumers' evolving demands. However, these large-scale infrastructures are often outdated. Their digital transformation is crucial to enable them supporting societies. This process must be carefully planned, providing guidance that ensures that the data they rely on is dependable and that the system remains fully operational during the transition. This paper presents a formal model that supports reliable data acquisition in legacy critical infrastructures, facilitating their evolution towards a data-driven smart system. Our model provides the foundation for a flexible transformation process while generating dependable data for system management. We demonstrate the model's applicability in a use case within the water distribution domain and discuss its benefits.

This study introduces an efficient strategy for synthesizing polyhydroxyurethane-based multicomponent hydrogels with enhanced rheological properties. In a single-step process, 3D materials composed of Polymer 1 (PHU) and Polymer 2 (PVA or gelatin) were produced. Polymer 1, a crosslinked polyhydroxyurethane (PHU) grew within a colloidal suspension of Polymer 2, forming an interconnected network. The synthesis of Polymer 1 utilized a Non-Isocyanate Polyurethane (NIPU) methodology based on the aminolysis of bis(cyclic carbonate) (bisCC) monomers derived from 1-thioglycerol and 1,2-dithioglycerol (monomers MA and ME, respectively). This method, applied for the first time in Semi Interpenetrating Network (SIPN) formation, demonstrated exceptional orthogonality, since the functional groups in Polymer 2 do not interfere with Polymer 1 formation. Optimizing PHU formation involved a twenty-trial methodology, identifying influential variables such as polymer concentration, temperature, solvent (an aprotic and a protic solvent), and the organo-catalyst used [a thiourea derivative (TU) and 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU)]. The highest molecular weights were achieved under near-bulk polymerization conditions using TU-protic and DBU-aprotic as catalyst-solvent combinations. ME-based PHU exhibited higher (M_w ) ̅ than MA-based PHU (34,100 Da and 16,400 Da, respectively). Applying the enhanced methodology to prepare ten multicomponent hydrogels using PVA or gelatin as the polymer scaffold revealed superior rheological properties in PVA-based hydrogels, exhibiting solid-like gel behavior. Incorporating ME enhanced mechanical properties and elasticity (with loss tangent values of 0.09 and 0.14). SEM images unveiled distinct microstructures, including a sponge-like pattern in certain PVA-based hydrogels when MA was chosen, indicating the formation of highly superporous interpenetrated materials. In summary, this innovative approach presents a versatile methodology for obtaining advanced hydrogel-based systems with potential applications in various biomedical fields.

This study addresses the problem of accurately predicting azimuth and elevation angles of signals impinging on an antenna array employing Machine Learning (ML). Using the information obtained at a receiving system when a transmitter’s signal hits it, a Decision Tree (DT) model is trained to estimate azimuth and elevation angles simultaneously. Simulation results demonstrate the robustness of the proposed DT-based method, showcasing its ability to predict the Direction of Arrival (DOA) in diverse conditions beyond the ones present in the training dataset, i.e., the results display the model’s generalization capability. Additionally, the comparative analysis reveals that DT-based DOA estimation outperforms the state-of-the-art MUltiple SIgnal Classification (MUSIC) algorithm, establishing DTs as competitive alternatives for DOA estimation in signal reception systems.

This review examines methodologies studying soil carbon in urban green spaces, a field requiring higher attention as their ecosystem services are valued and urban mitigation plans against climate change are developed. In the growing global urbanization, urban green spaces play a crucial role as nature-based solutions to address climate challenges, demanding efficient carbon accounting and reduction strategies. In this research, a systematic review was conducted assessing publications from 2021 to 2023 in the databases Web of Science and Scopus. Findings expose the lack of standardization in the methodologies used to study soil carbon in urban green spaces, evidencing in situ measurements at different sampling depths and studies without longitudinal monitoring over time. In addition, studies originated primarily in universities from China, United States and Spain, which focused on carbon in the form of Soil Organic Carbon and Total Carbon. Based on these findings, recommendations are made advocating for the combination and standardizing methodologies. This review offers valuable insights that shed light on an ignore and often overseen issue. Further studies and standardized methodology are needed, to help cities efforts in their pursuit of carbon neutrality by acknowledging the influential role of urban soils, especially green spaces.

LncRNA are involved in multiple regulatory pathways, its versatile mode of action has disclosed a new layer in gene regulation. They are reportedly modulated during plant development, with specific tissue functions and in response to stresses. In this study, we analyzed LncRNA from leave samples collected from the legume Copaifera langsdorffii (copaiba) from two divergent ecosystems: Cerrado (CER) and Atlantic Rain Forest (ARF). We identified 8020 novel lncRNAs, from which 2893 transcripts were regulated above 2-fold and 566 above 5-folds in either condition. This putative lncRNA set was compared with seven Fabaceae genomes, of which 1747 and 1879 transcripts (from ARF and CER, respectively) aligned to at least two genomes. Further, 2194 copaiba lncRNAs were successfully mapped to at least one of six Fabaceae transcriptomes. The secondary structures of the lncRNAs that were conserved and differentially expressed between the populations were predicted using in silico methods. Our results indicate the potential involvement of lncRNAs in the adaptation of C. langsdorffii to two different biomes.

Functional articular cartilage regeneration remains an unmet medical challenge, increasing the interest for innovative biomaterial-based tissue engineering (TE) strategies. Hydrogels, 3D macromolecular networks with hydrophilic groups, present articular cartilage-like features such as high water content and load-bearing capacity. In this study, 3D porous polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) hydrogels were fabricated combining the gas foaming technique and an UV-based crosslinking strategy. The 3D porous PEGDA hydrogels were characterized in terms of their physical, structural and mechanical properties. Our results showed that the size of the hydrogels pores can be modulated by varying the initiator concentration. In vitro cytotoxicity tests showed that 3D porous PEGDA hydrogels presented high biocompatibility both with human chondrocytes and osteoblast-like cells. Importantly, the 3D porous PEGDA hydrogels supported the viability and chondrogenic differentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (hBM-MSCs)-based spheroids as demonstrated by the positive staining of typical cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) (glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)) and upregulation of chondrogenesis marker genes. Overall, the produced 3D porous PEGDA hydrogels presented cartilage-like mechanical properties and supported MSC-spheroid chondrogenesis, highlighting their potential as suitable scaffolds for cartilage TE or disease modelling strategies.

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) belongs to the ErbB family, a group of four transmembrane glycoproteins with tyrosine kinase activity, all structurally related to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). These tyrosine kinases are involved in the transmission of cellular signals controlling normal cell growth and differentiation. If this transmission goes awry, it can lead to dysregulated growth of the cell. HER2 specifically can be implicated in the pathogenesis of at least eight malignancies. HER2 positivity quickly became a well characterized indicator of aggressiveness and poor prognosis, with high rates of disease progression and mortality. After realizing the implication of HER2, it first became investigated as a target for treatment in breast cancer, and later expanded to areas of research in other cancers types. To this day, the most therapeutic advancements of anti-HER2 therapy have been in breast cancer, however, there have been strong advancements made in the incorporation of anti HER2 therapy in other cancer types as well. This comprehensive review dissects HER2 to its core incorporating the most up to date information. The topics touched upon are discussed in detail and up to 200 published sources from the most highly recognized journals have been integrated. The importance of knowing about HER2 is exemplified by the groundbreaking advancements that have been made, and the change in treatment plans it has brought to the oncological world in the last twenty years. Since, its ground breaking discovery there has been significant breakthroughs in knowledge regarding the actual receptor, the receptors biology, its mechanism of action, advancements in tests to detect HER2 and significant strides on how to best incorporate targeted treatment. Due to the success of this field thus far, the review concludes by discussing the future of novel anti-HER2 therapy currently in development that everyone should be aware of.

The concept of the protein powder dispenser was developed on the basis of the results of analyses, studies and customer requirements. The dispenser was assembled using SolidWorks software, which consists of 63 elements, 14 of which are unique parts that are not available on the market. Each part of the dispenser was carefully designed to be injected into the plastic compound. Polypropylene is the perfect material for this dispenser as it is low density, waterproof, insoluble and extremely resistant to tension and bending. High purity propylene polymer can be processed into a tough, rigid and lightweight plastic with relatively low manufacturing costs, replacing expensive materials. The authors' original contributions are the design and manufacture of a dosing device for protein powder, adjustable in 3 heights to be able to dose in containers of different sizes; the design and integration of a mechanism with a precise dosing system, the components being designed so that the parts in contact with the shaft filled with protein powder form a perfectly closed space; the design and integration of the mechanism for adjusting the height of the dispenser.

Vanilla pompona is the third most important commercial species of the genus Vanilla, but its morphometric variation is little known. In orchids, infraspecific variation is expressed in the labellum. This study had the objective of analyzing the floral variation of V. pompona collections from localities in Veracruz, Puebla, Jalisco and Oaxaca, Mexico. During the flowering period, we obtained 55 collections of V. pompona flowers, and in the dissected labellum of each flower 54 lines and 7 angles were measured and portrayed with the ImageJ program. With the data obtained, we performed an analysis of variance, a principal components analysis, and a cluster analysis. The results showed significant differences among the collections and localities in the means of the lines of the basal, middle, and apical regions of the labellum. Also, six morphotypes were obtained, and we found that variation was associated with factors such as the environment, geographic barriers, and pollinator pressure. Moreover, we observed variation in flowering dates in one locality of Veracruz. We concluded that there is infraspecific variation within and between the collection localities of V pompona of the Atlantic region (Puebla and Veracruz) and the Pacific region (Jalisco and Oaxaca), Mexico.

The existences of the N→C dative bonds in the complexes between N-containing molecules and fullerenes have been verified both theoretically and experimentally. However, finding stable N→C dative bonds is still a highly challenging task. In this work, we investigated computationally the N→C dative bonds in the complexes formed by fullerene C60 with 1,2,5-chalcogenadiazoles, 2,1,3-benzochalcogenadiazoles and 1,2,4,5-chalcogenatriazoles, respectively. It was found that the N→C dative bonds are formed along with the formation of the N–Ch···C (Ch = S, Se, Te) chalcogen bonds. In the gas phase, from S-containing complexes through Se-containing complexes to Te-containing complexes, the intrinsic interaction energies become more and more negative, which indicates that the N–Ch···C chalcogen bonds can facilitate the formation of the N→C dative bonds. The intrinsic interaction energies are compensated by the large deformation energy of fullerene C60. The total interaction energies of Te-containing complexes are negative, while both of the total interaction energies of S-containing complexes and Se-containing complexes are positive. This means that the N→C dative bonds in the Te-containing complexes are more easily observed in experiments in comparison with those in the S-containing complexes and Se-containing complexes. This study provides a new theoretical perspective on the experimental observation of the N→C dative bonds in the complexes involving fullerenes. Further, the formation of stable N→C dative bonds in the complexes involving fullerenes can significantly change the properties of fullerenes, which will greatly simulate and expand the application range of fullerenes.

Objectives: To investigate the etiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in an adult female patient. Methods: We conducted trio genome sequencing on a 35-year-old woman with progressive weakness in her left upper limb, as well as on her parents. Prior to sequencing, we performed a comprehensive neurological work-up on the patient, including neurological exam, electrophysiology, biomarker assessment, and brain and spinal cord MRI. Results : The propositus experienced weakness and atrophy in her left hand 6 months before the evaluation. This was associated with brisk reflexes and Hoffman sign in the same arm. Electroneuromyography revealed lower motor neuron involvement in three body regions. Neurofilament light chains were elevated in her cerebrospinal fluid. Brain imaging showed asymmetrical T2 hyperintensity of the corticospinal tracts and T2 linear hypointensity of the precentral gyri. Genome trio sequencing identified a likely pathogenic de novo variant in the propositus’s KIF1A gene (NM_001244008.2): c.574A&gt;G, p.(Ile192Val). Discussion: Pathogenic variants in the KIF1A gene have been associated with a wide range of neurological manifestations called KIF1A-associated neurological diseases (KAND). The present report describe a likely pathogenic de novo variant in KIF1A associated with ALS, expanding the phenotypic spectrum of KAND and our understanding of the pathophysiology of ALS.

Despite the efforts made to stop the tuberculosis (TB) epidemic, it still remains one of the leading causes of death from an infectious disease. Previous work in the group uncovered a new family of amides which showed promising activities against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. A closer look at the literature showed that these compounds are structurally related to the DNB family of DprE1 inhibitors, so, we decided to study a wide range of substituted amides and determine their activity, focusing on unexplored structures related to the dinitrobenzamides (DNB) found in the literature. To synthesize our library of compounds we started from 3,5-dinitrobenzoic acid to form the nitroaromatic core that is characteristic of the DNB’s, to which we then added linear or cyclic amine moieties. Additionally, the impact of terminal aromatic moieties was also assessed for some derivatives, via an ether, ester, or amide bond. In order to obtain the desired derivatives, multiple synthetic approaches were used, mainly focused on nucleophilic addition/elimination reactions, SN2 reactions and Mitsunobu reactions. The activity was impacted mainly by two structural features, the addition of an aromatic moiety as a terminal group and the type of the linker. The most interesting compounds exhibited activities comparable to isoniazid and DNB1. Computational studies were also performed aimed at understanding their possible interactions with DprE1. The most active compounds are a good starting point for further development, and we plan to study an extended family of compounds based in those structures.

The spatial segregation is a characteristic of Latin American cities, resulting in distinct dynamics of social inclusion and exclusion at both spatial and identity levels. Then, specific green spaces may convert into appreciated and contested territories, where various actors negotiate their uses and regulations. Considering a case-study in a green icon of the metropolitan city of Santiago de Chile, the main objective of the present study was to describe and comprehend the uses and meanings of the Quebrada Macul park among different social groups over the past two decades. We employed qualitative methods including six in-depth interviews with key informants (social and ecological leaders, historical neighbors, and park workers), five participant observations in the park, and statistical analysis of visitors. Results reveal that (1) the transition of being a popularly used hill to a metropolitan park rises tensions between public and private statuses of place; (2) conflicts emerge regarding who uses the space and how, reflecting power dynamics among different social groups; (3) the park, beyond being a public space, holds significant identity value for its historical residents, both for those who fought for its recovery and those who have lived closely, so processes of forgetfulness might be resentful. We conclude on enduring meanings of the park associated with the struggle for the place among different groups, highlighting the role of memory for the social integration of groups among natural spaces.

Microplastic pollution (MP) in marine environments around the globe is severe and enough precautions have not been taken so far for its prevention. The focus of this study is to quantify MPs from beach sediment and seawater samples and to identify their distribution and types along the western coast of Sri Lanka from the Kelani River estuary to the Mahaoya estuary. Nine sites along this 42 km stretch were selected and random sampling was employed to collect a minimum of 8 sediment samples from each site between October and December 2021. Water samples were also collected, parallel to the sediments, from the ocean surface. FTIR analysis revealed that most of the MPs found were polyethylene(PE), polypropylene(PP), polystyrene(PS), polyethylene terephthalate(PET), and phenol formaldehyde resin. The mean abundance of MPs varied from 2.0 ± 0.6 items/L to 161.0 ± 15.7 items/L in water samples and, from 3.0 ± 0.3 items/m2 to 656.0 ± 34.5 items/m2 in sediment samples. The MPs found were identified in different shapes as fragments (80.2%), pellets (14.9%), fibers (2.7%) and foams (2.5%). Analysis revealed that the beach sediments were contaminated with PS, phenol formaldehyde resin, PET, PP and PE, while surface seawater is dominated by phenol formaldehyde resin, PS, PP and PE.

A mild, efficient, and photocatalytic synthesis of 6-phosphorylated phenanthridines via tandem radical addition/cyclization/aromatization of 2-isocyanobiphenyls with diarylphosphine oxides is reported. The method features operational simplicity, metal-free conditions, using low-cost rose Bengal as catalyst and sustainable air as terminal oxidant at room temperature, and providing the desired products in moderate to good yields.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most lethal form of brain tumor, characterized by rapid growth and surrounding tissue invasion. The current standard treatment is surgery followed by radiotherapy, and concurrent chemotherapy, typically with temozolomide. Although extensive research has been performed over the past years to develop an effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of GBM, efforts have not provided major improvements in the overall survival of patients with GBM. Thus, new therapeutic approaches are urgently needed. A major challenge in the development of therapies for central nervous system (CNS) disorders is overcoming the blood–brain barrier (BBB). In this context, the intranasal (IN) route of drug administration has been proposed as a non-invasive alternative route to directly targeting the CNS. In fact, this route of drug administration may bypass the blood-brain barrier and reduce systemic side effects. Recently, formulations have been developed to further enhance nose-to-brain transport, mainly with the use of nano-sized and nanostructured drug delivery systems. The focus of this review will be on the strategies developed to deliver a number of anticancer compounds for the treatment of GBM using the nasal administration. In particular, the specific properties of nanomedicines proposed for the nose-to-brain delivery will be critically evaluated. The number of preclinical and clinical data reviewed support the idea that nasal delivery of anticancer drugs might represent a breakthrough advancement in the fight against GBM.

This study presents the synthesis and electrochemical evaluation of nitrogen-doped vanadium oxide (N-V2O3/C) as a cathode material for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs), using a hydrothermal method. Compared to undoped V2O3/C, N-V2O3/C exhibits enhanced electrical conductivity, capacity, and electrochemical kinetics, attributed to the incorporation of pyridinic and pyrrolic nitrogen. Initial charge-discharge cycles indicate phase transitions to amorphous vanadium oxides, enhancing conductivity. N-V2O3/C shows a high specific capacity of 168.4 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1 and remarkable reversibility, highlighted by the transient existence of intermediate species during cycling. Optimal electrochemical performance is achieved with a vanadium to nitrogen molar ratio of 2:3, indicating the significant impact of nitrogen doping concentration on the material’s efficiency. This work underscores the potential of N-V2O3/C as a superior cathode material for AZIBs.

The extensive metabolic diversity of microalgae, coupled with their rapid growth rates and cost-effective production, position these organisms as highly promising resources for a wide range of biotechnological applications. These characteristics allow microalgae to address crucial needs in both the agricultural, medical, and industrial sectors. Microalgae are proving to be val-uable in various fields, including the remediation of diverse wastewater types, the production of biofuels and biofertilizers, and the extraction of various products from their biomass. For decades, the microalga Chlamydomonas has been widely used as a fundamental research model organism in various areas such as photosynthesis, respiration, sulfur and phosphorus metabolism, nitrogen metabolism, and flagella synthesis, among others. However, in recent years, the potential of Chlamydomonas as a biotechnological tool for bioremediation, biofertilization, biomass, and bio-products production has been increasingly recognized. Bioremediation of wastewater using Chlamydomonas presents significant potential for sustainable reduction of contaminants and fa-cilitates resource recovery and valorization of microalgal biomass, offering important economic benefits. Chlamydomonas has also established itself as a platform for the production of a wide va-riety of biotechnologically interesting products, such as different types of biofuels, and high-value-added products. The aim of this review is to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the potential of Chlamydomonas in these aspects, and to explore their interrelationship, which would offer significant environmental and biotechnological advantages.

The use of privileged scaffolds as starting point for the construction of libraries of bioactive compounds is a widely used strategy in drug discovery and development. Scaffold decoration, morphing and hopping are additional techniques that allow to modify the privileged framework chosen and better explore the chemical space around it. In this study, two series of highly functionalized pyrimidine and pyridine derivatives were synthesized by scaffold morphing approach of triazine compounds obtained previously as antiviral agents. Newly synthesized azines were evaluated against lymphoma, hepatocarcinoma, and colon epithelial carcinoma cells showing in five cases acceptable to good anticancer activity associated to low cytotoxicity on healthy fibroblasts. Finally, ADME in vitro studies were conducted on the best derivatives of the two series showing good passive permeability and resistance to metabolic degradation.